Thursday 30 April 2015

Places to visit in the World before you Die

The Great Wall of China: Legend of the Falls

Top attractions in China
The Great Wall of China: Legend of the Falls
With a history of well over 2000 years and length of over 8800 kilometers (5500 miles), the strategic and historical significance of the Great Wall of China is matched only by its archeological implication. The wall is one of the leading tourist attractions and a definite must do for travelers owing to its architectural grandeur and historical importance.

The Great Wall winds up and down across deserts, grasslands, mountains and plateaus, stretching from east to west of China like a dragon casting its mythical aura and importance not just in China but the world.

Machhu Pichhu, Peru: A Matter of Timing

 Machu Pichhu: A Matter of Timing
It is one of the Seven Wonders of the World and a World Heritage Site. This is mystical place and a great spot to divinity. Machu Picchu, the royal retreat of the Incan emperor Pachacuti, sits atop the Urubamba Valley in Peru. 

Meaning "Old Mountain" in the Quechua Indian language, the complex was constructed in the 15th century as a place for the emperor and his retinue to relax, hunt or entertain foreign dignitaries. One of the best time to visit this mesmerizing site is during morning before sunrise to capture the truly spectacular sight of the sunrise. 

An almost spiritual and awe-inspiring view of the landscapes basking in the glory of the sun makes this one of the top destinations to visit in a life time.

Machu Picchu stands 2,430 m above sea-level, in the middle of a tropical mountain forest, in an extraordinarily beautiful setting. It was probably the most amazing urban creation of the Inca Empire at its height; its giant walls, terraces and ramps seem as if they have been cut naturally in the continuous rock escarpments. 

The natural setting, on the eastern slopes of the Andes, encompasses the upper Amazon basin 
with its rich diversity of flora and fauna.

Grand Canyon, Arizona, United States: Scaling the Heights

travel inspirations
Grand Canyon: Scaling the Heights
A powerful and inspiring landscape, the Grand Canyon overwhelms our senses through its immense size; 277 river miles (446km) long, up to 18 miles (29km) wide, and a mile (1.6km) deep. 

Carved out by the Colorado River, the Grand Canyon (nearly 1,500 m deep) is the most spectacular gorge in the world. Located in the state of Arizona, it cuts across the Grand Canyon National Park. 

Its horizontal strata retrace the geological history of the past 2 billion years. There are also prehistoric traces of human adaptation to a particularly harsh environment.

Angkor Wat, Angkor, Cambodia: The Divine Inspiration

Angkor Wat, Cambodia
Angkor Wat: The Divine Inspiration
Angkor is one of the most important archaeological sites in South-East Asia. Stretching over some 400 km2, including forested area, Angkor Archaeological Park contains the magnificent remains of the different capitals of the Khmer Empire, from the 9th to the 15th century.  Angkor Wat Temple is the largest and most stunning attraction among the various monuments.

The temple was built in the early 12th century and was dedicated to lord Vishu, a Hindu God. Later it also became significant religious center for the Buddhist. The temple is recognized for its classical style of Khmer architecture. Angkor Wat today is a major pilgrimage site and one of the must visit tourist attractions of world.

Golden Temple, Amritsar, India: Sound of Silence

Golden Temple, Amritsar
 Golden Temple: Sound of Silence
Glittering in gold and iridescent in reflection in pool water, the Golden Temple or Harmandir Sahib is the holiest shrine of Sikhs located in Amritsar, Punjab. 

Blending both Indian and Mughal style of architecture, the Golden Temple has a large dome covered with gold giving it the name with which is known to the world today. 

The structural brilliance of the Golden Temple draws the interest of tourists and travelers from around the world.

Great Barrier Reef, Australia: Nature's Bounty

Barier Reef, Australia

 A Sea Turtle at the Great Barrier Reef
This is the world’s largest coral reef ecosystem. It is one of the top beautiful places to visit in Australia. You can see it from the outer space and it is the world’s largest single structure, which is made of living organisms. The Great Barrier Reef is located in the North East part located off the Pacific coast of Queensland, Australia.

It contains the world’s largest collection of coral reefs, with 400 types of coral, 1,500 species of fish and 4,000 types of mollusc. It also holds great scientific interest as the habitat of species such as the dugong (‘sea cow’) and the large green turtle, which are threatened with extinction. 

The breathtaking diversity and unparalleled diving opportunities make the Great Barrier Reef one of the top attractions in the world to visit before you die.


Yosemite National Park, United States: Spectacular Abundance

Yosemite National Park, USA

Mirror Lake in Yosemite National Park: Spectacular Abundance
Yosemite is located on the western slopes of Sierra Nevada Mountains. It is one of the nation’s most famous national parks in US. Yosemite is one of the most popular tourist attractions in USA. The glacially eroded alpine valley is just 8 miles long and less than one mile wide with sheer granite walls rising vertically over 3000 feet (1000 meters) on either side.

Sprawling over 3000 km of wilderness, nine cascading waterfalls, enormous sequoia tree groves, lush meadows, rolling valleys and granite cliffs conjure up a magical ambience and traveling opportunity inside Yosemite, one of the first National Parks in United States.

Owing to the geographical diversity, the richness of flora and fauna and beautiful vistas created by geological factors contribute to the popular attraction of the Park. Yosemite National Park was declared a World Heritage Site in 1984.
Narrowly missing the list was the mystical valleys of Ladakh, the heaven-on-earth incarnate that you wouldn’t want to miss.


Pangong Lake, Ladakh
Mystical Ladakh – The Last Shangri La
L:adakh, the barren paradise, is one of the most sought after destinations in the world. Every Year when the road to Ladakh opens in late May, visitors from all corner of the world head to Ladakh for the ultimate adventure experience.

The allure of Ladakh lies in its high altitude mountain passes, emerald lakes, towering mountain peaks, Buddhism and the sand dunes of Hunder. Ladakh is always in the wishlist of bikers and road trippers who head to "Little Tibet" every year for that adrenaline rush which is unique to Ladakh.

Wednesday 29 April 2015

Most Beautiful Places You Must Visit

Iguazu Falls, Argentina

iguazu-falls-waterfall-island

Kawasan Falls, The Philippines

Kawasan-Falls-The-Philippines

Kotor Bay, Montenegro

Kotor-Bay-Montenegro

Fairy Pools at the Top, Isle of Skye, Scotland

Fairy-Pools-at-the-Top-Isle-of-Skye-Scotland

Maui, Hawaii

Maui-Hawaii-680x1024

Canal De Corinto, Greece

Canal-De-Corinto-Greece

Tuesday 28 April 2015

Andaman Islands:


Andaman Islands: 


Havelock Island, the Andamans
Havelock Island, the Andamans is known for its swimming elephants
Renowned as one of the most popular destinations in India, Andaman group of Island consists of 52 islands out of which 36 are inhabited. Apart from the relaxed tropical ambiance, amazing diversity of corals and marine life what draws the tourist to Andaman is existence of the remnants of Stone Age culture and the colonial inheritance.

Not long ago before India got independence, the freedom fighters were kept here in isolation in the Cellular Jail, now a museum and the place was notoriously referred to  as “Kaala Pani” literally meaning black waters.

Today this deep green tropical paradise is frequented by tourists from around the globe for this archipelago’s rich and diverse wildlife, snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities and other water sports.

The Andaman Islands are connected by ferries and flights from Chennai, Vizag and Kolkata.

Best time to visit: From January till April and from late May till October
Climate Info: Varies from 24°C to 35°C with Humidity above 70%

Things to do in Andaman

Well there are plenty of activities that you could undertake during your summer holiday in Andamans. For the starters there are Museums some remnants of British Raj and other more modern one. A light and Sound show, recounting the history of the infamous ‘Kaala Paani’ in the evening is a must thing to do in Port Blair which is the capital of Andaman Islands.

Another not to miss activity in the Andamans is visit to Havelock and head to Radha Nagar Beach, one of the rare unspoiled and best beaches in India. Also voted “the best beach in Asia” by Time magazine Havelock Island is where the action is. Most of the snorkeling, diving, Kayaking and scuba diving opportunities are available only in Havelock Island.

Where’s the luxury you ask?
With rising popularity as one of the most romantic islands in the world, quite a few luxury resorts have come up to cater to the discerning travelers. There is no dearth of hotels in Port Blair and even Havelock has got one of the best and ecological beach resorts in India.

If it is the romance that you seek, or tranquility that is your calling or if it’s just relax & rejuvenation or adrenaline pumping activities like scuba diving, snorkeling and Kayaking, there’s something for everyone at the Andaman Islands.


Luxe Recommendation

Scuba Diving by Barefoot at Havelock
Rich marine life makes scuba diving an enthralling activity at Havelock, photo courtesy Barefoot at Havelock
When it comes to picking just one among the many favorites, Barefoot at Havelock is far ahead in the race when it comes to refined luxury. Located at Beach No 7 and winner of TripAdvisor’s  Travellers Choice Award 2014 in the Romance theme, this beach resort is perfect escape to relax, rejuvenate and commune with nature. If you are living here, the very best of hiking, trekking, birdwatching, diving and snorkeling is literally at your footstep.

The only hassle you might find is the odd buzz of the wildlife during night and no network connection for your mobile/Wi-Fi. But then the whole point of escape to one of the most romantic places in the world is just that…to remain undiscovered by the vagaries of modern life and masses. Isn’t it? And yes! don't forget to meet the swimming elephant Rajan during your stay.

Monday 27 April 2015

Pachmarhi Tourist Attractions

Pachmarhi Tourist Attractions


So you are planning for a holiday tour at Pachmarhi, one of my best places for my holiday tours. so I would like to introduce you with some of the main Tourist Spots at Pachmarhi, where everyone must visit...
These are only the main places to tour, there are several other places at Pachmarhi. But these places are some of my best places at Pachmarhi.
people enjoying pachmarhi waterfall

So Let us Begin...

Tip : While most of the spots are within 5-6 km, the best way of getting around is to hire a jeep (Gypsy). Gypsy can be hired through open market or hotel manages have links with Gypsy operators. If somebody wishes to visit tourist points using his own vehicle then also it is fine.
Below are some of Pachmarhi Tourist Attractions

1. Apsara Vihar

apsara vihar pachmarhi
This place is also known as "Fairy Pool". It is easily accessible from Jai Stambh, this is an ideal picnic spot for everyone also childrens, since the pool is shallow, not so deep, deepening only towards the base of the fall. My First Picnic Spot at Pachmarhi. 

2. Bee Fall

bee fall pachmarhi
A spectacular waterfall in the stream which also provides drinking water to Pachmarhi. It is also known as "Jamuna Prapat". The pools at above the waterfall in the stream are very popular. Must visit place at Pachmarhi.

3. Chauragarh

chauragarh pachmarhi
This place is around 4 km from Mahadeo caves, it is one of Pachmarhi's prominent land marks, a place of Hindu god "Lord Shiva".

4. Dhoopgarh

dhoopgarh pachmarhi
The highest point in the Satpura range at Pachmarhi, with a magnificent view of the surrounding ranges. A very popular spot for viewing sunsets. Must visit place at Pachmarhi.

5. Handi Kho

handi kho pachmarhi
Pachmarhi's most impressive deep narrow valley, has a 300 feet high precipice and dramatically steep sides. Amazing place at Pachmarhi.

6. Duchess Fall

duchess fall pachmarhi
This fall is also known as "Jalawataran". The descent is steep and the trek strenuous for almost to the base of the fall. Adventurous spot at Pachmarhi.

7. Irene Pool

pachmarhi nature
This pool was named after Irene Bose, wife of Justice Vivian Bose, who discovered it at Pachmarhi. The route up stream leads to a cave, through which the stream goes underground and then over a khud in a series of falls.

8. Jatasankar

jatasankar pachmarhi
A sacred cave at Pachmarhi under a mass of loose stones in which the Jambu-Dwip stream has its source. A rocky formation of this place resembles the matted locks hairs of "Lord Shiva", hence the name is "Jata shankar". 

9. Lanjee Giri

For adventure enthusiasts, Lanjee Giri calls them to fulfil their thirst of adventure at Pachmarhi. Enjoying rock-climbing in its lovely terrains is really a great fun for adventurers. However, the best joy may be to discover its underground passage here. Go on its so exciting...

10. Pandava Caves

pandava caves pachmarhi
Five ancient pandavas lived in these sandstone rocks. Pachmarhi derives its name from these caves which once provided shelter to the five Pandava brothers. These caves are now protected monuments at Pachmarhi. 

11. Priyadarshini Point

It is also known as "Forsyth Point". This vantage viewing point marks the place from where Captain Forsyth discovered Pachmarhi. The Britishers developed Pachmarhi as a hill resort and their influence is embodied in its churches and also in colonial architecture. Must visit place at Pachmarhi...

12. Rajat Prapat

rajat prapat pachmarhi
It is popularly known as "Silver Fall". Those who loves adventure will find it very interesting in this ten-minute walk over rocks from Apsara Vihar to the 'big fall', the top of Rajat Prapat. Exciting place at Pachmarhi...

Saturday 25 April 2015

Top 15 Hill Stations in South India for Honeymoon Vacation

Top 15 Hill Stations in South India for Honeymoon Vacation

Getting married is one of the most beautiful things that ever happens in an individual’s life. All though, we all plan a lot during our wedding, regarding the location, food, decoration, venue and the guest list  but when it comes to honeymoon, choosing the best destination or place  is certainly not paid much attention. Honeymoon is an important phase when you actually get to know your partner much better. India being a diversified country has assorted places from North to South and East to West. Since the awe-inspiring hilly regions provide a tranquil environment to spend a romantic time, here are some of the best hill stations in the Southern part of the country where you could cherish the best phase of your life with your adorable partner.

1- Munnarmunnar
Munnar, the toy-town hill station in the “God’s Own Country” – Kerala is an ideal honeymoon bliss. Untouched from the hustle and bustle of the routine clad life, it accounts for the most memorable time spent and the ultimate choice for the honeymoon holidays. It is known for its tea gardens, lakes, waterfalls and beautiful country side. The placid trails laid throughout this retreat are the best strolling paths ever taken. However, sipping a brew in small tea shops along the tea gardens and awe-inspiring viewpoints provide the great aura to bond and fall in love over and over again.

2- Ootyooty
Ooty is just what the doctor ordered if you are looking for the perfect honeymoon destination. Assorted with many cozy cottages, lodges, hotels and restaurants, it is flooded with many honeymooners from various parts of the world. It offers several adventure filled activities like angling, hand gliding, trekking, etc. and provides a unique experience. Ooty is indeed a perfect place for the couples to finally break the ice, start their journey of life and cherish wonderful memories.

3- Idukkiidukki
Idukki is one of the most mesmerizing hill stations in South India. Laden with many sanctuaries, tea gardens and national park, it provides the perfect spice required to light up once married life. With its spice plantations and many aboriginal tribes, it provides a very unique essence in life. It is known for its panoramic view points and the Idukki dam, which is world’s second and Asia’s first arch dam. The vista offered by the place is truly majestic. The best affair is the elephant safari that takes the visitors through the tea plantations and provides a unique stillness to let the magic of love begin.
4- Kodaikanalkodaikanal
This retreat in the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu is appreciated as the princess of hill stations throughout the country. Kodaikanal is known for its breathtaking backdrops that certainly mesmerize you.  With many enchanting view points and the majestic Kodaikanal Lake filled with water lilies, gives the opportunity to enjoy the Bollywood romantic duets. It is one of the famous honeymoon destinations of South India.

5- Coorg coorg
Referred to as the Scotland of South by the British, Coorg is definitely the place meant for the newlyweds. With its unique style of wedding rituals where instead of the priests, the elderly commence the errands. It is one place where the green of the flora soars high and get mixed with the white and grey. The most amazing part is the morning that truly enthralls the couples.

6- Coonoorconoor
Coonoor is known for its picnic spots that go hand in hand with the tea gardens. The lush flora doesn’t help in keeping track of time, while strolling through the hill station. It is famous for its multitude of gardens that adore many species of flowers evergreen plants and trees. The green slopes are the most captivating part of the hill stations as you could see many couple sitting, relaxing and engulfing the beauty of this hill station during their honeymoon vacation.
7- Devikulamdevikulam
The less crowded Devikulam hill station is the perfect retreat for the newlyweds.  The presence of a sacred lake – Sita Devi is the main attraction, not because of its sacredness but because of the abundance of minerals in its water. The hill station is bio diversity rich, and being close to many popular hill stations, it offers many sightseeing options than any other hill station in Kerala.
8- Araku Valleyaraku-valley
It is the most magnificent location in Andhra Pradesh. The mesmerizing serene valley comprises of many hills, undulating meadows, pompous orchards, which adds to the pleasant weather that prevails all year round. It is truly a very special place to visit with that someone special. It is compulsory to carry a picnic box, as it enhances the pleasure while unfolding the countryside. The famous limestone Borra caves provide a new side of nature. Buying old silver from tribal surely promises a reminiscent memory.
9- YercaudYercaud-lake
Yercaud is a hill station situated in Tamil Nadu. It is famous for its unique topography that completely sweeps you of your feet. The hill station in based in the Shevaroy Hills of Eastern Ghats and it is mostly visited by the honeymooners. The place is filled with the lakes, waterfalls, parks and many colonial buildings. The temperature never exceeds above 30 degrees; although the adjoining areas of the hill station are hot and dry. The couples enjoy the breathtaking vistas with occasional drizzling.
10- Ananthagiri HillsAnanthagiri-hills
Apart from being one of the only three hill stations in Andhra Pradesh, Ananthagiri Hills provide the vista of hills joshing with the clouds. It is the splendid summer retreat in Andhra and one of the pollution free hill stations of India. Rich in minerals and salubrious environment, it vouches for captivating landscape that just ceases everything and enchants a melody of love on the honeymooners.
11- Kotagiri
kotagiri
The ultimate destination for the wanderlust struck duet, Kotagiri is the oldest hill station of the Nilgiri trio Otty, Coonoor and Kotagiri. Its weather is incomparable and environment is salubrious.  The evergreen Longwood Forest is one of a kind refuge for anyone who wants a little seizure of stillness and natural splendor. The brilliance in holding hand and walking miles is better explained by visiting this marvel of nature in the Blue Mountains.
12- Kudremukhkudremukh
Mother Nature has her own ways to make people appreciate. Kudremukh is a horse face shaped peak that is located in the Chikkamagaluru district in Karnataka.   The rolling mountains, pristine rivers and lakes mesmerize the visitors. It is laden with ores and rich bio diversity, which is hard to find. Away from the mishmash of the concrete and smog, this destination will definitely enchant a tune that triggers a never ending connection. Meant not only for the honeymooners, but for nature enthusiasts as well, it is a must visit destination during your South India tour.
13- Nandi Hillsnandi-hills
Nandi hills also known as ‘Hill of Happiness’ nestled in Karnataka. It is flooded with lot of lovebirds all round the year. Nandi has many myths and legends related to its name. It is one place near Bangalore that provides the ultimate silence one needs to ignite the spark in his or her new life. Filled with many view points, forts and fortress that hold historic value, the hill station is surely a delight to the eyes.
14- Panchganipanchgani
Panchgani is famous as the Mecca of Maharashtra. The hill station is replete with luxuriant farms, deep crevasses; sparse hamlets mixed with mesmerizing and isolated areas are an absolute delight for the newlyweds. It provides an essential quite time for the couples.  There are many archaeological and geological sites that make one perform the Di Caprio and Roberts cameo from Titanic.

Thursday 23 April 2015

Manali:

Manali: Top Honeymoon Destination in North India

Vashist Village, Manali
Views like this and serene setting makes Vashist Village one of the popular places to visit in Manali. 
One of the most popular destinations for summer holidays in North India is Manali in Himachal Pradesh. Nestled amidst the Pir Panjal and Dauladhar range of Himalayas offering spectacular views, gurgling water streams and an array of mountain adventure makes Manali one of the finest all season tourist destinations in India.

Whereas thrill seeker arrive in Manali to get high on adventure sports like paragliding, white water rafting, zorbing and trekking, honeymooners flock to have their first tryst with snow with day trips to Rohtang Pass. For backpackers it’s the quaint, serene hippie towns in the outskirts - Malana being the most popular one - and for long term adventure seekers, it serves as base for gearing up and getting ready before venturing out to conquer the trans Himalayan terrains and undertake trekking and road trips to Leh, Spiti and beyond.

Rohtang Pass
Rohtang Pass is one of the must to undertake day trips from Manali.
For family holidays in summer, there are umpteen things to do in Manali that includes visit to religious places like Hidimba Temple, Tibetan Monasteries, Manu & Vashist Temple. Adventure activities like tandem paragliding and white water rafting in Beas River are also popular with families holidaying in Manali.

Tandem Paragliding, Solang Valley
Tandem Paragliding is a popular adventure sports activity available in Solang Valley near Manali
Solang Valley is probably one of the most popular excursions from Manali offering a load of anventurous activities to youths, couples and families alike. Far from the maddening crowd of the New Manali Town, Solang Valley offers some of the finest and serene accommodation options to visitors. Yet another recommended place to visit in Manali is Vashist with its rustic setting and tranquil ambience.


When to Visit: The best time to visit Manali is from April till October. Post October, it starts to get chilly and by December Manali receives its first snowfall. Rohtang Pass, Vashist become inaccessible during this time of the year.

Where to stay: When it comes to accommodation, Manali has a wide variety of value for money hotels and resorts where you could stay. The best of the hotels and resorts are located in the outskirts of the city with excellent view of the mountain peak and lush countryside. However, staying in the outskirts could also mean that visitors may have difficulty arranging for taxi/cabs if they are not traveling on their own vehicle. Some of the recommended places to stay in and near Manali are the Manu Allaya Resort, Johnson Lodge and Snow Peak Retreat.

Monday 20 April 2015

10 Wildlife Sanctuaries and National Parks of India

Dachigam Wildlife Sanctuary

Dachigam Wildlife Sanctuary
Image credit – Nadeem HassanCC BY-SA 3.0
Located in the state of Jammu and Kashmir,The Dachigam Wildlife Sanctuary was established in 1910. The sanctuary is located in the western Himalayas and is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna with grasslands, pastures, meadows with rocky cliffs and rocky outcrops. Leopard, Musk Deer, Himalayan Black Bear, Himalayan Brown Bear and Otter etc. are few of the many species that are found here.

Jim Corbett National Park

Jim Corbett National Park
Image credit – wribsCC BY 2.0
Located in the Nainital District of Uttrakhand, Jim Corbett National Park was established in 1936. The national park is located amidst a mixed terrain of deciduous forests and mountainous pine forests. As a result Jim Corbett National park is one of the most biologically diverse zones in India. Corbett National Park is a home to the Bengal tiger, Leopard, Leopard cat, Elephants, Sambhar Deer and Golden Jackal etc.
Sunderbans Wildlife Sanctuary
Image credit – joiseyshowaaCC BY-SA 2.0
The protected forest area in West Bengal was declared a National Park in 1984 and is a rich biosphere reserve and the part of the Sunderbans situated at the Ganges Delta. The Sunderbans Wildlife Sanctuary is a home to a wide variety of flora and fauna species. These include Tiger, Leopard cat, Fishing Cats and over 70 different species of endemic birds.

 Manas Wildlife Sanctuary

Manas Wildlife Sanctuary
Image credit – Chandrashekhar BasumataCC BY 2.0
Located in Assam, the Manas Wildlife Sanctuary was established in 1985 and is located in the foothills of the Himalayas. The sanctuary is a home to a plethora of rare and endangered species of animals like Tiger, Asian elephants, Golden Cat, Leopards, Clouded Leopard, Slow Loris and Chital etc.

Kaziranga National Park

Kaziranga National Park
Image credit – rajkumar1220CC BY 2.0
Known for the largest population of the Indian one-horned Rhinoceros and Tigers in the world, the Kaziranga National Park is located in Assam. The forests are spread across an area of 430 Square kilometers and are home to species like Tigers, Rhinoceros, Elephant, and the Asian water buffalo, Swamp Deer, Monitor Lizard and Spectacled Cobra etc.

Ranthambore National Park

Ranthambore National Park
Image credit – bjoernCC BY 2.0
Considered to be one of the best spots to view the Bengal Tiger, Ranthambore National Park is located in Rajasthan and lies between the confluence of the Banas and the Chambal River. The protected forests are also famous for their large banyan trees and is enshrines a Medieval fort. Tiger, Hyena, Sloth Bear and Chital etc. are some of the rare species found here.

Keoladeo Ghana Bird Sanctuary

Keoladeo Ghana Bird Sanctuary
Image credit – Ron KnightCC BY 2.0
Formerly known as Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, the Avifauna sanctuary is located in Rajasthan. The Keoladeo Ghana Bird Sanctuary was created around 250 years ago and was named after a Shiva temple located within the forest by the Rajput King Maharaja Suraj Mal. Keoladeo Ghana Bird Sanctuary was announced as a bird sanctuary in 1971 and is famous for housing over 230 species of birds.

Sasan Gir National Park

Sasan Gir National Park
Image credit – Arian ZwegersCC BY 2.0
The Sasan Gir National Park is located in Gujarat and is famous for its thriving population of the Asiatic Lion. Due to its diverse eco system and geography, Gir Forest National Park is home to a large variety of species of flora and fauna. The rare species of animals found here are Asiatic Lions, Leopards, Sloth Bears, Jungle Cats, Spectacled Cobra and several rare species of birds are also found here.

Kanha National Park

Kanha National Park
Image credit – Ankur PCC BY-SA 2.0
Spread across a massive 940 sq kilometers, Kanha National Park is the largest national park in Madhya Pradesh. The park is characterized by grassy meadows and open bamboo forests. The rare animal species found in the park are Tigers, Leopards, Wild dogs, Jackals and Sloth bear etc. The park is also famous as being the original source of Rudyard Kipling imagination while writing the Jungle Book although the story was actually set in the Pench National Park in India. The Kanha National Park was established in 1955 and is visited by thousands of tourists each year.
Periyar Wild Life Sanctuary
Periyar Wild Life Sanctuary
Image credit – Henrik BennetsenCC BY-SA 2.0
Located by the Periyar River in Kerala, Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary was established in 1928 and is spread across 305 square Kilometers. Being located between the mountain ridges the protected area is famous for its population of the Indian Tiger and the Asiatic Elephants. The rare species found here are the Tiger, Elephant, Travancore flying squirrel, Fruit bat, Giant squirrel, Wild pig and lion-tailed macaque etc.