Places To Visit In Jharkhand

                  famously called, is heaven for nature lovers. The unparalleled beauty of the state with majestic hills, scenic waterfalls, rich greenery and colorful culture makes your visit to the land memorable. Thanks to the dominant tribal population, the land preserves nature at its best. It is the perfect destination to land if you are looking for a rendezvous with nature. Here are thetop 9 places in Jharkhand.

1. Ranchi

Hundru Falls

          nature, Ranchi captivates your soul with authority. It is so rich in mineral resources that it is also called as the ‘Manchester of the East’. Here are the top attractions in Ranchi.

• Hundru Falls
• Dassam Falls
• Jonha Falls
• Panch Gagh Falls
• Birsa Zoological Park
• Ranchi Lake
• Kanke Dam
• Jagannath Temple
• Nakshatra Van
• Sun Temple
• Pahari Mandir
• Rock Garden
• Deer Park

2. Jamshedpur

Road to Dimna Alke

Jamshedpur owns the pride of being home to Tata Steel, the first private iron and steel company in the country. With many industries, both small and large scale, flourishing here, it is indeed a surprise to see that the city has rich greenery and is environment friendly. Here are the leading attractions in Jamshedpur.

• Dalma Hills
• Russi Modi Centre of Excellence
• Jubilee Park
• Jubilee Lake
• Jayanti Sarovar
• Dimna Lake
• Tata Steel Zoological Park
• Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary
• Hudco Lake
• Bhatia Park
• Tribal Culture Center
• Sir Dorabji Tata Park
• Bhuvaneswari Temple
• Parsee Fire Temple
• Sakchi Gurudwara
• Sakchi Masjid
• St. Mary’s Church

3. Deoghar

Deoghar, the City of Temples, is a famous pilgrim spot for followers of Hinduism. This ancient town has many temples and some are located in scenic environment. Have a feel of the land regardless of the faith you believe in and you are sure to enjoy every moment of it. Here are some of the top attractions in the city.

• Baba Baidyanath Temple
• Basukinath
• Trikuta Hills
• Satsanga Ashram
• Mayurakshi River
• Harila Jori
• Shivganga
• Rikhia Yogashram
• Jaisar Children’s Park
• Nandan Pahar
• Kathikund
• Kundeshwari
• Ajgaibinath
• Hathi Pahar

4. Hazaribagh

Hazaribagh, as its name suggests, is a land of flora and fauna. The name Hazaribagh means a thousand gardens and the city lives up to its name. Situated at an altitude of 2019 feet above sea level, the city is a well known health resort. Here are some top destinations in Hazaribagh.

• Canary Hills
• Hazaribagh Wildlife Sanctuary
• Hazaribagh National Park
• Isco Rock Art
• Suraj Kund
• Rajrappa
• Konar Dam
• Bhadrakali Temple
• Silwar
• Sanskriti Museum and Art Gallery
• Urban Haat
• Megaliths of Hazaribagh
• Salparni

5. Dhanbad

Dhanbad, the ‘Coal Capital of India’, ranks 79th amongst the fastest growing cities in the world. While the city’s earlier history remains a mystery, its present development is no secret to the world as it lies at the center of the heart of the country’s richest coal fields. Here are the places to visit in Dhanbad.

• Topchanchi Lake
• Maithon Dam
• Panchet Dam
• Birsa Munda Park
• Bhatinda Fall
• Charak Pathar
• Panrra
• Parasnath Temple
• Jharia Coal Mines

6. Bokaro

Bokaro is famous for its steel and coal industries. The natural resources available here has turned the city into a leading industrial hub. It is however not all industries as it has its share of lush greenery too. Here are some top tourist spots in Bokaro.

• Bokaro Steel City
• Garga Dam
• Jawaharlal Nehru Biological Park
• City Park
• Bokaro Ispat Pustakalaya
• Jagannath Temple
• Gayatri Mandir
• Chas
• Kali Mandir
• Siwandih
• Noori Masjid
• Aaiyappa Mandir

7. Giridih

Giridih, called the ‘Land of Hills’ is also known as ‘The Land of Jain Pilgrims’. The highest peak of Jharkhand lies here. Being carved out from Hazaribagh, Giridih shares its history. The land abounds in mineral resources. It boasts of extensive forests too. Here are some leading attractions in Giridih.

• Parasnath Hill
• Usri Falls
• Madhuban
• Khandoli Park
• Jharkhandi Dham
• Devari Temple
• Harihar Dham
• Jain Museum
• Sammed Shikharji
• Baidadih

8. Netarhat

If you long to be amidst the richness of nature, Netarhat, Queen of Chotanagpur, is the right place for you. The tranquility in the air and scenic landscapes just blow your mind. The jungle covered hill station is the coolest place in the whole of Jharkhand. Here are the top tourist destinations in Netarhat.

• Netarhat Hills
• Koel View Point
• Sadni Falls
• Magnolia Sunset Point
• Upper Ghaghri Falls
• Lower Ghaghri Falls

9. Palamu

Palamu has a rich past going by legends but authentic evidences are yet to be unearthed. The legends about the land are interesting and present a scenario of rich cultural background. Here are the leading attractions in Palamu.

• Palamu Wildlife Sanctuary
• Betla National Park
• River Koel
• Palamu Fort
• Upper Ghaghri Waterfalls
• Lower Ghaghri Water Falls
• Lodh Falls

The attractions in Jharkhand is more and hence covering them all in one attempt is nothing short of challenging. I welcome suggestions from you on other tourist attractions in Jharkhand to make my next visit to the land more exciting.

Places To Visit In Karnataka

Top 10 Places To Visit In Karnataka

          Mysore, Karnataka was formed on 1st November 1956 and is located in the South-Western region of India. Close to the Arabian Sea and the Laccadive Sea, Karnataka is known for its beautiful yet unpopulated beaches and rich culture. The land has also seen the reign of the ancient kingdoms of the south such as the Chola, Chera, Vijaynagar, Sathavahanas, Maurya, Hoysala and many more right upto the Mighty Tipu Sultan and subsequently the British. Kannada is the main language spoken here and picking up a few local words can often be very helpful while travelling. The state is famous for its natural, cultural and architectural heritage and there are plenty of places one can visit on his/her trip to Karnataka.

1. Bangalore

Ulsoor Lake

The capital of Karnataka and the 3rd most populated city in India, Bangalore is often known by its nickname the silicon valley of India due to it being a major IT exporter in India. The city is now known by the Kannada name ‘Bengaluru’ which literally means ‘The City of Guards’. There are however, various different translations of this word. The town is famous for its various attractions which include both modern and historical place to visit. The various temples, palaces, lakes and forts etc. are definitive places to visit.

2. Mysore

Mysore Palace

Image credit – Ramnath Bhat, CC BY 2.0

The down served as the capital of the princely State of Mysore for nearly six centuries with distinguished rulers like Tipu Sultan and Hyder Ali. The city is also known as the cultural capital of Karnataka and is famous for its various temples, palaces, forts and old churches. The town is known for being the birth place for various styles of Indian arts and crafts. Mysore is a major tourist destination in India and should be visited by all who want to experience the rich culture of this historical city. 

3. Mangalore

St.Mary’s Island

Mangalore is located between the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats and is considered to be the 8th most clean city in India. The city has been an important one since the rule of the ancient kingdoms like the Mauryas, Chalukyas and the Hoysalas etc. however the city saw its golden days of prominence during the reign of Tipu Sultan and Hyder Ali. Mangalore was a primary source of tension between Tipu Sultan and the British. The city is famous for its amazing beaches and hills and the rich culture imbibed within various temples and monuments of the old days.

4. Hampi

Located within the ruins of Vijaynagar, Hampi is a world heritage site and one of the most important historical sites across the world. Vijaynagar was the capital of the erstwhile Vijaynagar Kingdom and the ruins are built near the banks of the Tungabhadra River. The city has some of the most magnificent buildings and sites that display the architectural brilliance of the Vijaynagar rulers. Its various temples are heavily frequented by pilgrims and tourists and is a great place to visit.

5. Coorg

Coorg is also known by its native name ‘Kodagu’ and is located on the slopes of the Western Ghats. It is a hilly location and is famous for its lush green surroundings and pleasant climate. It is also an important agricultural town in Karnataka and is famous for its coffee and paddy fields. The town of coorg is also famous for its natural wealth and a number of various species of flora and fauna. Coorg has various Buddhist monasteries that are a must visit. The various festivals and temples attract a huge number of tourists to this city.

6. Bijapur

Esablished between the 10th – 11th century AD by the Chalukyas and eventually came under the reign of the Delhi Sultanate and the Nizam of Hyderabad. Bijapur is known for its various historical monuments and forts. There are various temples in the town that were established in the ancient era of the Deccan kingdoms, however the city saw its best days under the Adilshahi Dynasty and has an evident Mohamedian influence in its culture. The various monuments in the city display a brilliant Muslim architecture and are some of the best sites to visit.

7. Hubli-Dharwad

These are the twin cities and are also the commercial and business hub of Northern Karnataka. The town Hubli is the fastest growing city after the capital Bangalore and is also known as ‘Chota’ or small Mumbai. The various temples, lakes and gardens in this city are a must visit. The city Dharwad is again another important city of Karnataka and is famous for its temples, monuments and is a home to a rich cultural and traditional heritage. The various arts, crafts and festivals in these cities will ensure you spend a decent amount of time here.

8. Badami

Badami got its name from the erstwhile reigning dynasty of the Badami Chalukyas and is famous for its stone temples and rock cut monuments. The city is historically significant as it has been mentioned in the Hindu mythological texts as well. The cave temples and the Agastya Teerth are few of the most important pilgrimage spots here. What makes the place unique is its peculiar location. It is located in a ravine across the shores of the Agastya Lake and is a marvelous place to visit.

9. Gulbarga

The city was founded by the sultans as their capital in the 14th century. Gulbarga is known for its various temples and Muslim monuments and memorials. The place is also been a home to the ancient kingdoms of the South with monuments and buildings dating back to the reign of the Maurya, Chalukya, Hoysala etc. The local cuisine is amazing and the place should be visited specially to try all of them out.

10. Gokarna

Om Beach

A small temple town located at the northern part of Karnataka, Gokarna is known for its temples and some of the most beautiful beaches in India. The Shiva temple of Mahabaleshwara is prime pilgrim spot in this town and houses what is believed to be the original image of lord Shiva’s lingam. It is one of the most favored holiday destinations in the state as its clean and unpopulated beaches are amazing.

The State of Karnataka has always been an important region since the reign of the ancient southern kingdoms and has played an important part in shaping up the history of our country. The pristine locations and the moniker of being one of cleanest states in India, Karnataka is an experience everyone must get indulged with.

The most adored Hill Stations in West India are as follows:

The most adored Hill Stations in West India are as follows:

  Khandala
It is one of the hill stations in Maharashtra that has attracted many tourists. It   is very well connected to the cities of Pune and Mumbai. There are many beautiful caves, mountains and waterfalls that when mixed with the greenery of the hill station is one vista that anyone cannot afford to miss.

  Lonavala
It is the twin hill station to Khandala. It is famous worldwide for the sweet “chikkis” that are made here. It has many caves, lakes and waterfalls. Karla caves are the must visit caves as they have connections to the Buddhism dating back to the 9th Century.

  Mahabaleshwar
Mahabelashwar is the perfect tourist destination in the state of Maharashtra. It is a most visited hill station of the state.  There are umpteen numbers of lakes offering an opportunity to the visitors to try their hand in boating and fishing.

  Matheran
It is Asia’s only automobile free hill station, providing the cleanest and freshest air and atmosphere to dwell in. The most mesmerizing part of the trip is the toy train ride from Neral to Matheran that covers the entire topography of the hill station.

  Panchgani
Panchgani is the most popular hill station of Maharashtra. It is surrounded by the 5 hills from which Panchgani has derived its name. It is a marvellous spectacle of old British and Parsi homes. The prime landscape of Panchgani is the sight of the river Krishna from the Table Land a famous flat mountain range.

  Mount Abu
Apart from being the only hill station in Rajasthan, it is also the summer capital of the state. Mount Abu is renowned worldwide for the Dilwara Jain Temples. It offers many breathtaking sunsets points, from where you could cement the bond of love with your loved ones. Being close to Gujarat, it offers a good variety of Rajasthani and Gujarati handlooms, textiles, artifacts and the list goes on.

  Panhala
Panhala though being the smallest city in Maharashtra holds a very prominent place in the history of the state. It is the place to visit if you want to study the history or the culture of the great Marathas in detail. The pollution-free atmosphere of Panhala offers a very pleasant and cool climate that makes your stay very calm and peaceful.

  Saputara 
Apart from being the only hill station in Gujarat, it definitely is its “Aankhon Ka Taara”. It is the one place you should visit, if you want to enjoy the monsoons. The place is full of lush-green forests, enchanting waterfalls etc. The picturesque landscape of Saptura leaves everyone spellbound.

Top 10 Places To Visit In Madhya Pradesh

India’, Madhya Pradesh is the second largest state in India. It is considered to be occupying the most ancient land in the Indian subcontinent known as Gondwana. The rich history of the state is evident from the stunning architecture of the bygone era. To have an insight into the history and marvel at the skills of the artisans of the past, you need to travel the length and breadth of Madhya Pradesh. Given below are the top 10 places to visit in Madhya Pradesh.

1. Bhopal

View of Bhimbetka, World Heritage

Bhopal, the capital of Madhya Pradesh, is called the ‘City of Lakes’ and rightly so. It has an amazing number of natural lakes and artificial lakes. The city is a blend of history, mesmerizing beauty and modernized planning. Here are the leading destinations in Bhopal you need to visit.

• Bhimbekta
• Upper Lake
• Lower Lake
• Van Vihar National Park
• Bhojpur
• National Museum of Mankind
• State Museum of Madhya Pradesh
• Birla Museum
• Gohar Mahal
• Minto Hall
• Taj ul Masajid
• Bhadbhada Dam

2. Indore

Daly College

Situated on the banks of Rivers Khan and Sarawati, Indore, the largest city in Madhya Pradesh, is famous for its spectacular architecture. The land is update with the modern world but a visit to Indore will make you feel that you are in a different part of the world and an ancient one too. Given below are some of the top attractions in Indore.

• Central Museum
• Lal Baag Palace
• Patalpani Waterfall
• Pipliyapala Regional Park
• Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary
• Tincha Fall
• Indore White Church
• Krishnapura Chhatris
• Town Hall
• Nehru Park

3. Gwalior

Gwalior Fort

A blend of bravery and architecture is not uncommon in the ancient history. However, inGwalior, you will find that the blend is unique. The glorious architecture stands proof of the expertise of the land in war and arts. Here are the leading attractions of Gwalior.

• Gwalior Fort
• Sun Temple
• Jai Vilas Palace Museum
• Gopachal Parvat
• Gujari Mahal Archaeological Museum
• Teli Ka Mandir
• Jivaji Rao Scindia Museum
• Madhav National Park
• Tigra Dam

4. Khajuraho

Khajuraho Temple

One cannot help but think of Khajuraho sculptures the moment the name of the place is heard. The exquisite carvings are proof of the immortal architecture of the land. A perfect example of Indo-Aryan architecture, the sculptures stand the test of time. Here are the leading destinations in Khajuraho.

• Khajuraho Temples
• Ajaigarh Fort
• Panna National Park
• Archaeological Museum
• Dhubela Museum
• Kalinjar Fort
• Beni Sagar Dam

5. Ujjain

Shri Ram Ghat

Ujjain is considered one among the seven important Hindi pilgrim centers to attain mukthi. Located on Shipra River banks, the city attracts pilgrims in great numbers. This ancient city was once the center of learning. Given below are some of the leading destinations here.

• Shri Mahakaleshwar Temple
• Kal Bhairav Temple
• Chintaman Ganesh Temple
• Jantar Mantar
• Kalideh Palace
• Vikram Kirti Mandir Museum

6. Mandu

Tomb of Hoshang Shah

Mandu, as Mandavgarh is called, is situated at an altitude of 2000 feet. The architectural beauty in the land fight with the scenic landscape to draw your attention. Whichever way you go, you stand benefited. However, you may not want to miss out on any of the star attractions here.

• Hindola Mahal
• Ship Palace
• Rewa Kund
• Bagh Caves
• Rupayan Museum
• Chhappan Mahal Museum
• Hoshang Shah’s Tomb
• Rupmati Pavilion
• Echo Point

7. Jabalpur

If you love nature, you need to be in Jabalpur on your tour to Madhya Pradesh. Considered the most favored destinations in the land, Jabalpur has plenty to offer. Its rich natural beauty and historic monuments will make your stay worthwhile. Here are the leading destinations in Jabalpur.

• Dhuandhar Waterfalls
• Bhedaghaat
• Madan Mahal Fort
• Balancing Rocks
• Bargi Dam
• Narmada Valley
• Dumna Nature Reserve
• Rani Durgavati Museum

8. Sanchi

Sanchi is a World Heritage Site. The ancient history of the land is evident in the temples, stupas and monasteries found here. The place is considered a major pilgrim center by followers of Buddhism. Some of the monuments here date back to 3rd century BC. Given below are the leading attractions of Sanchi.

• Stupas
• Udaygiri Caves
• Ashoka Pillar
• Eastern Gateway
• Buddhist Vihara
• The Great Bowl
• Gupta Temple
• Sanchi Museum

9. Omkareshwar

Omkareshwar, the island that is considered sacred by followers of Hinduism, is a fine example of natural beauty and architectural excellence. Two lofty hills and a valley which divides the island resemble the shape of ‘Om’, the sacred symbol of Hinduism. Here are the leading destinations in Omkareshwar.

• Omkareshwar Temple
• Shri Omkareshwar Jyotiling
• Mamleshwar Temple

10. Orchha

Orchha Palace

Orchha can never be underestimated as a tourist destination as it is named as the last in the list. The capital of Bundela Rajput kings, Orchha, has some of the magnificent constructions. You are in for a surprise if you had intended clubbing your visit to Orchha with any other tourist destination nearby. Here are the top attractions of Orchha.

• Orchha Fort
• Chattris Cenotaphs
• Jehangir Mahal
• Raja Mahal
• Chaturbhuj Temple
• Dinman Hardaul’s Palace
• Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary

A tour to Madhya Pradesh makes you feel that you had visited the past. The influence of the past is still evident and you cannot help but marvel at the land that is a combination you look to have in a tour. The places I have mentioned are the ones that I could cover on my tour to Madhya Pradesh.