Kozhikode - The City of Spices

Kozhikode, also known as Calicut, is one of the major cities of Kerala and the capital of the Malabar. It is of historical importance and was once known as the “City of Spices”. You will see ginger and spice plantations along the way as proof of why this name came about.

Calicut City (Photo courtesy: Wikimedia Commons)

Kozhikode has attracted travellers from far and wide for more than 500 years. Some of the well known travellers whose accounts of the city have been found include - Ibn Battuta from Arabia in the 1300s, and in the 1400s, Ma Huang from China, Abdur Razzak from Persia, Niccolò de' Conti from Italy and Athanasius Nikitn from Russia. The city came into existence under the rule of the Zamorins in the 13th century. The Mananchira Square is where the Zamiron kings had their palace.

Kadalundi Bird sanctuary, KozhiKhode (Photo courtesy: Wikimedia Commons)

There are many things to do in Kozhikode, like sightseeing, attending festivals, shopping or other activities. A few must-dos:

- The Tali Shiva temple

- The Kuttichira mosque

- The Church of South India

- The Pazhassiraja museum

- The Krishna Menon museum and Art Gallery

- The Kadalundi Bird sanctuary

- The Thushagiri waterfalls

Thushagiri waterfalls,Kozhikode (Photo courtesy: yaatrika)

Shopping: Since Kozhikode is the home of Calico soft printed cotton, this is a great market for hand woven textiles. Local handicrafts also include rosewood and sandalwood carvings.

Mahashivaratri festival,Kozhikode (Photo courtesy: Calicutnet)

Festivals, activities and events: The Mahashivaratri festival happens in February and conducted with great fanfare. Be prepared to see elephant processions, fireworks and fetes that happen during this celebration. For those interested in yoga, there are 3-week long camps that are conducted here. You can also go boating on the lake, and relax in the beauty of this city. 

Flights to Kozhikode are now available at a reasonable price. There are also frequent international flights from Kozhikode to the Middle East.

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36 hours in Hyderabad

Hyderabad is known countrywide for its delicious spicy food, particularly biryani. It was also home to Osman Ali Khan, Asaf Jah VII, who was the richest man in the world during the early 1900s.  If you have 36 hours to spare in Hyderabad, be prepared to have a packed agenda. Here are the must-dos:

Charminar and Chudi bazaar - Iconic landmark of Hyderabad, Charminar (literally translates to four towers) was built in 1591 by the 5th ruler of the Qutb Shahi dynasty, Sultan Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah. At night, this symbol of the elimination of a plague epidemic from the city is beautifully lit, but you can enjoy it just as well during the day.

Charminar, Hyderabad

Around the Charminar, at the heart of Hyderabad's charming old city are finger-licking good biryani and kebab joints, a heaven for any non-vegetarian. And for the shopaholics, Chudi bazaar and Laad bazaar are right around the corner. Known to have a large variety of colorful bangles and pearls, this place is usually teeming with people. Altogether, some great photo opportunities. This will take up at least 2 to 3 hours of your day.

Mecca Masjid, Hyderabad (Photo courtesy: Wikimedia Commons)

Mecca Masjid - Opened in 1694, this is one of the oldest mosques in Hyderabad and one of the biggest in the country. 

Golconda Fort, Hyderabad (Photo courtesy: Wikimedia Commons)

Golconda Fort - Built during the reign of the Qutb Shahi Dynasty, these ruins offer a fantastic view of the entire city that was ruled by this dynasty before the British Raj. A great spot for a family outing, you will surely spend half a day here. And while you're at Golconda, make a small detour to check out the Qutb Shahi tombs, only a kilometre away. 

Salar Jung museum - One of the three national museums in India, Salar Jung museum has a collection to die for.

Salar Jung museum, Hyderabad  (Photo courtesy: Wikimedia Commons)

Nizam's Palace - For a glimpse of the wealth of Hyderabad, one must go to the Nizam's Palace and see the immense wardrobes, the artifacts and other possessions the Nizams had.

Nizam's Chowmahalla Palace Hyderabad (Photo courtesy: Wikimedia Commons)

Hussain Sagar Lake - This man made lake hosts many sailing competitions, and has an amusement park at the water's edge. Pit stop at eat street along the water for a quick bite.

Hussain Sagar Lake, Hyderabad

Satisfy your taste buds by stopping at Paradise for Hyderabad's best biryani! Make your way to this city around Ramzaan and try the Haleem that's available at Pista house. Visit Famous Ice Cream for something to cool you down. 

With so much to do, all that's left to do is hop on a flight to Hyderabad, be amazed by one of the best international airports in the country - the Rajiv Gandhi international airport, and have a great time!

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Things to do in Mangalore

Mangalore is the chief port city of Karnataka and demographically diverse with people who speak Tulu, Konkani and Kannada. It is a typical Indian coastal town, but has its own specialties and stands out in many respects. For one, there are many religious structures that make for great sightseeing spots, and then there is something Mangalore is famous for - the seafood!

Here's a list of places you should see when you're in Mangalore:

1. Nehravathi river - With its origins in Gangamoola in Kudremukh, this is considered one among many of India's Holy rivers as it flows through Dharmasthala, a famous pilgrimage spot.

2. Bahubali - Bahubali was a Jain kevali and you will see his statue here in Mangalore.

3. The beaches - There are many beaches in Mangalore that are worth a visit. One of the more famous beaches is Udupi beach, and others include Tannirubhavi beach and Panambur beach. Watch the sunset here, relax and take some pictures for posterity.

4. Mangaladevi temple - This is a must-see not only for the religious, but for everyone. Be astounded by the beautiful architecture and lovely colours of the temple. The city's name is derived from the name of this Goddess.

5. Sultan battery - This is a tower that was constructed by Tipu sultan in 1784, definitely worth a visit.

6. Milagres church and St. Aloysius Chapel - For a touch of history and religion.

Enjoy the curving ghat roads as you drive from one spot to another and of course, stop for a scrumptious meal on the way. Topping the list of things to be had is the fish curry and rice, and second, the prawn preparation that is Karnataka's coastal speciality. Hop on a flight to Mangalore to experience all of this.

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48 hours in Kolkata

This lovely city is one that puts old and new together - it still has all the colonial era beauties intact and is rich in its Indian culture and heritage. It combines the old and the new. On the road, you see hand pulled rickshaws and fancy cars alike. Culture rich, the home of Rabindranath Tagore, Satyajit Ray and more talented people in the past and today, this, without a doubt, is a city that you must see!

If you plan well, you can see all that Kolkata has to offer in 48 hours. Make sure to carry water with you because Kolkata is hot and humid.

Victoria Memorial  (Photo courtesy: Wikimedia Commons)

Victoria Memorial, Kolkata

Victoria memorial - Established in 1921, this is one of India's finest museums. The collection in this museum includes photographs, statues and a whole lot of history. Definitely something you should make the for time for.

Eden Gardens Kolkata  (Photo courtesy: Wikimedia Commons)

Eden gardens - This is a big haunt for particularly those who are cricket fans, but being the largest and oldest cricket stadium in the country, you must pay it a visit even if you're not one.

The Birla Planetarium, Kolkata (Photo courtesy: Wikimedia Commons)

The Birla planetarium - This is one of the largest museums in Asia. Add a touch of astronomy to your life by visiting this planetarium cum museum.

Howrah bridge - Built in 1874, this is one of the busiest bridges of the city. There are two big bridges in Kolkata, but the Howrah bridge is definitely one you must drive past if not drive on.

Howrah Bridge  (Photo courtesy: Wikimedia Commons)

Howrah bridge seen from Babughat in Kolkata, West Bengal, India.

Marble Palace - Constructed in 1835, this is an art gallery you must see! Besides an exquisite art collection, the marble palace also has a zoo that hosts a rare collection of birds.

Marble Palace, kolkata (Photo courtesy: Wikimedia Commons)

Besides this, it's really relaxing to simply walk along the streets and take in the sights and sounds of quaint, beautiful Kolkata. Go back in time when you pass by old buildings and watch people use age old modes of transport. Take a walk along the Hooghly river or hop into a taxi and listen to the stories the taxi driver has to share.

Each of these will take at least an hour to tour, if not more. Take your time and soak it all in. If you want to take a break from all the sightseeing, remember that Kolkata also happens to be a foodie's paradise! Don't forget to try the chaats, the sweets and the street food! Make sure to get a bite of the chilkas, the jhaal muri, all the different types of fish preparations like macher jhol and chingri macch. Don't forget to have the rasgullas for dessert.

So take a flight to Kolkata, take this list of things to see and do with you and see the best of Kolkata in 48 hours! 

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Lonavala: Weekend Getaway Near Pune

About 64km away from Pune city is a lovely hill station called Lonavala. Accessible from Pune by train or road, this beautiful hill station is a must visit during the monsoons when you can see what true lush greenery is. Lonavala is 625m above sea level, and looking out of your hotel room window, you will possibly see hills that look like their tops have been sliced right off. Yes, Lonavala hosts some of the best views of the Deccan Plateau. Enjoy these exquisite views and have a memorable vacation with family or friends!

Without a doubt, this terrain allows for trekking and hiking and of course, sightseeing. 

Ten things that one should consider doing when in Lonavala are:

1. See Lion’s Point, where the hills take the shape of a lion amidst the waterfalls. It's breathtaking.

A Scenic View from Lion's Point in Lonavala (Photo Courtesy: India Nature Watch)

2. Check out the Celebrity Wax museum and feel like you’ve been transported to an Indian version of Madame Tussauds.

Celebrity Wax Museum in Lonavala (Photo Courtesy : Kids Stop Press)

3. Visit Tiger Point for some fantastic views, weather permitting. That is, when the fog clears.

Tiger's Point in Lonavala (Photo Courtesy: Chandra Sekar, Flickr )

4. Take a little tour of history - make sure to see the ancient Karla caves and travel back in time.

                                              Karla caves, Lonavala (Photo Courtesy: sorabh) 

5. Lohgarh Fort is a must see for a good trek and some really good views.

Lohgarh Fort in Lonavala (Photo Courtesy: PlacesNearPune)

6. A long walk in the mountains to the beautiful Tungarli lake is a great place to have those reflective moments.

Tungri lake , Lonavala (Photo Courtesy: IndiaUnveiled)

7. The Divine Ekvira Devi temple is worth a visit for a darshan, a lovely view and a trek, if you decide to walk up rather than drive. 

8. Go to Della adventure park for some adventure rides in the midst of the beauty of Lonavala.

Della adventure park, Lonavala (Photo Courtesy: Dellatecnica)

9. Valvan lake makes for some relaxation by the lakeside.

Valvan lake Lonavala (Photo Courtesy: cameranirvana)

10. Korigad fort is again a place for a good trek and a wonderful view.

Korigad fort, Lonavala  (Photo Courtesy: mountainmavalas)

Lonavala, with its quaint railway stations, rich food and kadak chai, is known as the romantic getaway, and people of Mumbai and Pune love taking time off from their busy lives to relax here. It's famous for the Indian sweet, chikki as well so you can give your sweet tooth something to lust after.That's a good way for couples in love to add a touch of sweetness to their lives while on their visits here as well.  Make sure to take some back with you after your visit here.

Definitely a great place to visit, particularly in the monsoons when the rains add to the beauty of this hill station. After all these years, Lonavala has not lost its reputation as being a great holiday and honeymoon destination. And as it's not far from Pune, all you need to do is get on any of the flights to Pune and make your way to this beautiful weekend getaway.

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Explore the unexplored Goa

A tourist place that would be very human in that it could use the line “But I’m so much more than that!” is Goa. Thronged by tourists from September to March, Goa is well known for beaches, thriving night life and delicious seafood. Little known is the incredible Goa that’s on the flip side of this coin. It’s true, hidden from the eyes of the regular tourist, this state has another personality.

Take a flight to Goa, hop on a train if you’re the kind to plan in advance, or drive there if you’re close enough, and consciously move away from the beaches. Besides the sea, Goa has much to offer.

The Western Ghats - We tend to forget that Goa lies tucked deep in the Western Ghats, and so has all the richness of a tropical rainforest. For those who love nature, go trekking or visit wildlife sanctuaries such as the Bondla Wildlife sanctuary. Pay a visit to the Dr. Salim Ali Bird sanctuary too. You can go on walks or safaris to spot birds, see sambars, wild boars, and more in these forests.

During the monsoons, the greenery comes alive, glistening a deeper green and feeding one of the tallest waterfalls in the country, in fact one among the 100 highest waterfalls in the world - the DudhSagar waterfall. The name literally translates to ‘Sea of Milk’, so known because of how milk-white it looks in its descent.

The architecture - a combination of the Portuguese and Indian, the art galleries and museums, the old forts, churches and temples are a must visit as well. Goa has a rich history and the beautiful local handicrafts, quaint market places, attitude of the people and carnivals speak volumes about that past. It’s time to go explore the unexplored Goa!

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Places to Visit in Colombo

The Emerald Island does what it’s best at and none better than it’s commercial capital - Colombo. Situated just off the coast of South India, Sri Lanka has oodles to offer to the discerning tourist. Be it abundant natural charisma or a generous dose of history or a soulful of spirituality, Colombo has everything for all.

Colombo is the largest city of Sri Lanka and is an enchanting amalgamation of old and new cultures and flavours. If you’re on a Sri Lankan holiday, start off your journey with Colombo.

Historically, Colombo served as a natural harbour to the Greeks, Persians, Romans, Arabs, the Dutch and the Chinese. The location of the city played a pivotal role in ensuring that Colombo was on the map of international trade and relations. This definitely helped and is continuing to help flourish the economy of the region. Today, Colombo is connected to all major cities of the world. From India, few major airlines have frequent flights to Colombo.

Here are a few places, among many, that your Sri Lankan itinerary should ideally contain -

The Fort: The Fort started life as its namesake but over the years, the Fort turned itself into an establishment of commercial interest. With a bevy of offices, hotels and restaurants, the Fort is now a popular destination for the tourist. 

Mount Lavinia: Just 12 km from Colombo is Mount Lavinia, a beach whose natural beauty is famous even from the colonial times. The Mount Lavinia hotel has an important bit of history attached to it. Back in 1805, the Governor House was built was since converted to a guest house and the hotel soon after. 

Dehiwala Zoo: This zoo houses some of the most intriguing fauna from around the globe. The zoo is spread across an area of 11 acres and is famous for the Elephant Show that is held every evening.

  

National Museum: The house of Sri Lankan culture and history, the National Museum is home to over half a million books, more than 4000 archaic palm leaf manuscripts, rock sculptures, demon masks and more intriguing artifacts that date back to the 17th century.

Colombo is truly a destination for the discerning tourist. Hop over to the Emerald Isle for a great vacation. 

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