Aurangabad: Home of Famous Ajanta & Ellora Caves

Visiting Aurangabad during any vacation was a given in my school and college days because we had family there. There are memories of innumerable trips to Ajanta and Ellora, and each time, it was a new experience. One cannot but stop and marvel at the glory of the place. The sculptures in the caves at Ellora date back to the period between sixth and eleventh centuries. There are 34 caves at Ellora, while the Ajanta caves (2nd century BC to 6th century AD) stand at 29. The caves are located in Aurangabad district.

Ellora

It is impossible to put into words the sheer magnificence of Ellora’s many caves, but the Kailasa temple complex is the crowning glory. Each time I visited it, it took my breath away. The sunlight shining through the rocks gives the place an other-worldly feel to it. It is said to be the largest monolithic structure in the whole world, and displays the genius of artisans several centuries ago. There is a courtyard with several etchings of episodes from the epics.

Kailash Temple (Photo Courtesy: http://en.wikipedia.org)

There are also Jain caves at Ellora, with figures of Gomateshwara and Mahavira. There are Buddhist caves as well at Ellora. Ellora is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is a must-visit, even if you have already seen it before. Ellora is about 30 km from Aurangabad and is easily accessible by road. To reach Ellora, you will have to book your tickets on one of the Aurangabad flights; Aurangabad is the nearest airport.

Jain Caves in Ellora (Photo Courtesy: http://thinkingparticle.com)

Ajanta

Ajanta caves are about one-and-a-half hours away from Ellora, so you can hire a car and drive around the two places. The paintings in the caves are bound to take your breath away. You might have noticed the image of Padmapani on many a picture postcard from Aurangabad; the image has become representative of the glory of Ajanta. The Ajanta caves are World Heritage sites as they indeed should be. The highlight of your visit to Ajanta is the reclining Buddha, a huge carved statue which is deceptive of Buddha’s moment of nirvana, or liberation from the world.

The Buddha's nirvana (Photo Courtesy: http://www.studyblue.com)

Also don’t miss the Buddha in cave 1, where you can see different facial expressions of the Buddha from different sides, a trick of sculpture. The cave also has several beautiful paintings on ceilings and walls. The painting techniques employed at Ajanta are said to be similar to the fresco methods employed by Europeans. The artists of those times were said to have used only six colors, and the pigments were extracted from natural resources.

Ajanta Cave painting (Photo Courtesy: https://www.flickr.com)

While at Aurangabad, you can also visit the Daulatabad Fort and the Bibi ka Maqbara, the latter being a poor man’s version of the Taj Mahal.

Daulatabad Fort (Photo Courtesy: https://ghumakkarchronicles.wordpress.com)

Bibi ka Maqbara (Photo Courtesy: http://www.rajasthangk.net)

There are plenty of shopping opportunities as well, look for Paithani sarees and bidriware to take home. The city has decent accommodation options and is well connected by air, rail and road. There are regular flights to Aurangabad from major Indian cities.

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Maharashtra: Rich in Culture and Tradition

Maharashtra is a state which represents rich culture, prosperity, spirituality and tradition. This Indian state has preserved its traditions amidst advancing industrialization and has gained its rightful place as a global tourist destination. Today, airlines operate flights to Mumbai from almost every corner of the world as well as other parts of India. Maharashtra is home to Marathas, who contributed immensely towards India’s rich heritage and culture. The state is renowned for its quality of education, and of course, Bollywood, the dream merchants of the country. Here are some facts which Maharastra which make Maharashtra unique.

Art and craft: Maharashtra is famous for Paithani sarees, Warli paintings, kolhapuri jewelery, etc. Hand-made sandals and chappals made of leather are known for their quality, design and style, known as Kolhapuri chappals. Kolhapur jewelery is one of Maharashtra’s famous exports, particularly the necklace known as the Kolhapur saaj.

Warli paintings art of Maharastra (Photo Courtesy: http://www.nazarmagazine.com)

Dance culture: Various dance forms are performed on festivals and special occasions in the state. Dhangari Gaja is performed by Sholapur Dhangars to honor their God Biruba. Another popular dance form is the Lavani, which interprets romance and passion at its best. Povadas is equivalent to Ballad, which aims at explaining the life and times of Shri Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

Lavani interpretation of romance and passion (Photo Courtesy: http://mumbai-eyed.blogspot.in)

Religions: Though 80% of the state’s population is Hindu, Maharashtra is a secular state and several religious co-exist here peacefully. Hindus pray to Lord Krishna and Ganesha, and Janmashtami and Ganesh Chaturthi are the popular festivals in Maharashtra. Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, Zoroastrians, Jews and Buddhists co-exist happily in this vast Indian state.

Cuisine: Pani puri and vada paav of are some of the most popular Maharashtrian snacks. Fish and meat are poplar, especially the Bombil fish. Bharlivangi is a popular vegetarian dish prepared by filling spicy coconut stuffing into brinjals. Pachadi is a mix of vegetables in a sauce of green mangoes and coconuts. Shreekhand, puran poli and modak are Maharashtra’s favorite sweet dishes.

Popular Bombil fish fry (Photo Courtesy: http://sanjivkhamgaonkar.wordpress.com)

Fairs and festivals: Apart from Ganesh Chaturthi and Janmashtmi, Diwali is also celebrated with great show and pomp. The state also celebrates Narali Poornima, Dusshera, Bakari Eid, Ramzan Eid, Gudi Padawa, Moharram, Mahashivratri, Holi, Shree Datta Jayanti, Vata Poornima, etc. Ellora Ajanta festival is held every January in Aurangabad, and the Elephanta Festival in March.

Ganesh Chaturthi (Photo Courtesy: http://www.journeymart.com)

Breaking Dahi Handi at Janmashtmi (Photo Courtesy: http://www.boston.com)

People of Maharashtra are kind hearted, and welcome guests with warmth and love. If you would love to experience the rich culture and tradition of this unique Indian state, check for Mumbai flights today. Plan a holiday and experience Maharashtra in all its hues.

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Monsoon Getaways in Mumbai

Mumbai, the capital of Maharashtra is the most populated city of India and the fourth most populous city in the world. It also happens to be the richest city in India, and has a natural harbour. Mumbai has always maintained its reputation as the commercial and entertainment capital of the country. In fact, older movies in Bollywood also reflect this - they constantly portray Mumbai as the city to migrate to for a good job, and Mumbai has a high number of migrants from within the country and outside. Mumbai is also the home of Bollywood and most Bollywood actors live in this city.

The quaint Karnala Fort Village (Photo Courtesy: topbesttouristplaces.blogspot.in)

Incredibly scenic views adorn Kamala Fort (Photo Courtesy: rkmenon)

Monsoons in Mumbai are the time of the year when there is love in the air and a skip in everyone’s step. Between June and September, the weather is cooler though still humid and the city takes on a new avatar. The best thing about the season though, is the possibilities that open up in terms of monsoon getaways to visit around Mumbai. You should visit:

The Mulshi backwaters are a picturesque destination (Photo Courtesy: trekearth)

The Mulshi Dam. Calm, serene, and beautiful.(Photo Courtesy: indianaturewatch)

Be at one with nature at the Malshej ghat. (Photo Courtesy: ebharatdarshan)

 1. Karnala Fort: For a view of the Sahyadris lush green with rain, streams and waterfalls, and the Karnala fort.

2. Mulshi: Get a lovely view of the Mulshi dam, boating at Mulshi lake and trekking in the Hattihant and Pagota hill ranges. 

3. Malshej ghat: Here’s where you can see the biodiversity around Mumbai at its best. Trek on the Sahyadri mountains for sights of rabbits, peacocks, flamingos and maybe even a tiger or a leopard!

4. Lohgad fort: Trek up to the fort for a fantastic view of the Tung and Tikona hills, Duke’s nose and Pavana dam. You can also check out the Karla and Bhaje caves and fulfill your need for picturesque sights.

5. Kashid: Spending a lazy, rainy day by the beach while indulging in a good seafood dish is one of the best ways to relax.

Lohgad fort - a trekker's paradise.(Photo Courtesy: hemanthkatta)

Lohgad fort - incredible views as far as the eye can see.(Photo Courtesy: imgur.com)

Everything you need to unwind at the Kashid beach.(Photo Courtesy: Jittu)

Mumbai alone has a lot in store, but these places are something else altogether. A Mumbai flight and a short drive are the only two things that will keep you from enjoying Mumbai and its surroundings in the monsoons! 

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Mesmerising Goa in Rains

Goa, India’s smallest state is also probably India’s most famous and richest. Best known for its beaches and everything associated with beaches, Goa is a place that defines freedom for most youngsters. Many concerts happen in Goa, and most foreign tourists make sure to visit Goa when they are in India. For Indians too this is a favourite vacation destination. Great food, drinks and picturesque views by the beach are the highlights of being in Goa.

Romancing the Goa in Monsoon, Batim (photo Courtesy: parrikar.com)

Goa though, is more than just beaches; it lies tucked deep in the Western Ghats, and has all the richness of a tropical rainforest. Goa is a biodiversity hotspot. Nature lovers can go trekking or visit wildlife sanctuaries such as the Bondla Wildlife sanctuary. The Dr. Salim Ali Bird sanctuary is here in Goa too. Safaris or walks through these forests will allow you to spot birds, see sambars, wild boars, and more. 

Let it Rain, Goa (Photo Courtesy:bigpictr.com)

Beach's during the monsoon in Goa (Photo Courtesy: photonewsinworld.blogspot.in)

 Goa also has a rich history; it is a former Portuguese colony and so has remnants of the Portuguese culture, such as churches built in Portuguese architectural style. Many of the historical monuments in Goa are sites of world heritage architecture.

The monsoon rains arrive early in June and continue to pour down until September. The rains are respite from the heat that gets almost unbearable just before the season hits, around May. During the monsoons, the beaches are blurred, making it look as though the ocean and the sky are one and the greenery comes alive. One of the tallest waterfalls in the country, in fact, one among the 100 highest waterfalls in the world - the DudhSagar waterfall which is in Goa, takes on a fuller form. The name of this waterfall literally translates to ‘Sea of Milk’, so known because of how milk-white it looks in its descent.

A Railway Trek to Dudhsagar Fall ,Goa(Photo Courtesy: bharatmoms.com)

Dudhsagar Fall, The World's Most exquisite falls (Photo Courtesy: shivkirantourism.com)

The Sea of Mils (Photo Courtesy: bharatmoms.com)

 While Goa sees fewer tourists during the monsoons because the beaches generally become dirty and one cannot maintain shacks by them, there are those who come for the western Ghats tour of Goa’s rich biodiversity. Take advantage of the lack of crowds on the beaches of Goa, since during the rains, there are few tourists and one can explore this haven uninterrupted. Watching the rain dance with the sea with a steaming cup of tea in your hand is a feeling unparalleled. Goa is now being marketed by the government as a place that can be visited during the monsoons and hotels nowadays are offering monsoon holiday packages too.

Don’t think of Goa only during summers and winters. Consider going there during the monsoons to experience mesmerizing Goa in the rains. Take any of the Goa flights and make a memorable trip of Goa in the rains.

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Matheran: Weekend getaway near Mumbai

One of the best weekend getaways near Mumbai is Matheran. Matheran was discovered by Hugh Poyntz Malet, the then district collector of Thane district in May 1850. It is one of the smallest hill stations of India. About a hundred kilometres away from the bustling, busy city of Mumbai, Matheran offers a peaceful quiet that’s very rare today.

A weekend getaway to Matheran (Photo Courtesy: gypsiesatheart)

You can take a train to Neral from Mumbai and then take a local train to Matheran. Enjoy spectacular views along the way. You can also drive up till Dastiru Naka which is the last point until which public vehicles are allowed, and then take local transport to Matheran. The fact is, vehicles aren’t allowed in Matheran, so there’s no scope for pollution from this source. The main mode of transport here is by horseback or single seater hand pulled rickshaws.

The train ride to Neral is one for the memories. (Photo Courtesy: Lonely Planet)

Enjoy some quiet long walks by the lakes, and have your breath taken away by the views of gorgeous green hills 360 degrees around you, whether in the monsoons or the dry season. Perched on the western ghats, Matheran has been declared an eco sensitive region by the Union Environment Ministry. You can enjoy the beautiful British style architecture and the fabulous weather which makes this place a great summer getaway.

The picturesque Charlotte Lake (Photo Courtesy: Touristlink )

Matheran is a haven for people who like trekking. Other attractions include Mount Berry, from where you can get a view of the town Neral below. Charolette lake, a very pristine spot, is another tourist attraction where you can expect to see waterfalls in the monsoons. There are also of course the many lookout points for most picturesque views of Matheran. If you’re adventurous, you may also want to try the valley crossing on a rope.

A trek up the hill promises fun (Photo Courtesy: trekmatesindia)

Some of the sights to see or view points you can visit in Matheran are Alexander point, Rambag point, Little Chowk point, Big Chowk point, One Tree Hill point, Belvedere point, Olympia race course, Lords point, Charlotte lake, Pisharnath Mahadev Mandir, Celia point, Echo point, Porcupine point, Panorama point, Khandala point, Madhavji garden and point, Louisa point and Mayra point. The Matheran Railway station itself is also beautiful in it’s quaintness.

Closer to the Nature, Louisa Point, Matheran (Photo Courtesy: heyitsmariel.tumblr.com)

Take the ropeway to swing across the valley.(Photo Courtesy: SachinkGupta)

While there’s not too much shopping opportunity in Matheran, the main road is lined with many little shops that sell sweets, snacks and trinkets.One can stay in Matheran within a relatively low budget and make the best of it with a good amount of hiking and eating good food.

Horses are preferred to horsepower in Matheran (Photo Courtesy:Virtual Tourist)

It’s a great place to visit as a couple, as a family or even with a group of friends. For those in Mumbai, this is a must visit. The closest airport to Matheran is the Mumbai airport. Take a flight to Mumbai and make your way to Matheran for a great getaway.

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Madhe Ghat: Walking through the clouds

About 55km south of Pune, in the Raigad district, is one of the most beautiful weekend getaways for folks living in Pune - Madhe ghat, the photographers’ and nature lovers’ paradise. Nestled among the Sahyadri mountains 1,950 metres above sea level, it makes for a great trekking spot and weather permitting, an incomparable nature photography spot. The best time to visit this place is between June and December, although the weather is perfect for a holiday even in the month of May. Still a developing hill station and not yet very well known, Madhe ghat is surrounded by forest and is very cold and foggy, so make sure to carry a jacket and an umbrella or a raincoat too, to protect yourself from the rain.

A foggy afternoon at Madhe Ghat

 The route to Madhe ghat is not well developed, so brace yourself for a rough ride. The easiest way to get to this place is by bike or on foot, although you can manage to get here by car. The two ways to get to Madhe ghat are via Pabe Khind and via Nasrapur. A lovely drive hour long drive through ghat sections and curved roads later, you’ll be greeted by a waterfall and the most breathtaking sights.

Pitch your tent in the lush greenery 

 Right from bright yellow sunflower fields to dense green, fog filled forests and beautiful sights of clouds descending on the hills, this place makes you feel as though you’re living in a dream or like you’ve set foot in heaven. Cattle in the fields that you pass will be barely visible, so thick is the fog. Low visibility may not be the only thing to slow you down though; on your way to Madhe ghat from Pune, make sure to stop for some hot missal pav to fight the cold and keep hunger at bay. Once you hit Velhe village, you have reached the base of Madhe ghat and you can go forth and explore.

A treat to the photographer's eye

As it happens, “Madhe ghat” is the ancient route along which the body of Tanaji Malusare, one of Shivaji’s great warriors who died fighting at the Kondana or Sinhagad fort, was carried to his native village in Konkan. 

Madhe ghat offers some of the best views and there is almost always a blanket of cloud over the hills. Walking around here gives the impression of walking through the clouds. So why not make a weekend trip out of this lovely, scenic place? All you need to do is get on any pune flights, rent a car to make your way up to Madhe ghat and enjoy the chilly yet picturesque surroundings. Soak yourself in this beautiful place to relax before you get back to greet the week ahead with a content smile.

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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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