Karnataka · Travel

Srirangapatnam: slice of royalty with the all pervading spirit of Tipu Sultan

Located about 25 km from Mysore is the bustling town of Srirangapatna or Srirangapatnam. Apart from being a popular pilgrimage destination, the town of Srirangapatna boasts of a rich past. Intrinsically associated with the legendary ruler of Mysore, Tipu Sultan, the town is known for its famous battle of Seringapatam, which was fought here in 1799.… Continue reading Srirangapatnam: slice of royalty with the all pervading spirit of Tipu Sultan

Karnataka · Travel

Vittala Temple, Hampi: An architectural masterpiece

Hampi is one of the most visited and popular sites in Karnataka and it is really one of those places you never tire of seeing again and again.  This is because there is so much to explore in this ancient town that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and akin to an open air museum.  I… Continue reading Vittala Temple, Hampi: An architectural masterpiece

Karnataka · Travel

Karnataka’s Golden Chariot: the experience and the journey

My previous post spoke about the grandeur, facilities and delectable food aboard the Golden Chariot.  This concluding post is a quick summary on the premier experience as well the journey offered by this luxury train. With a staff of close to 40 members, the hospitality of the train is managed by the Mapple group of… Continue reading Karnataka’s Golden Chariot: the experience and the journey

Karnataka · Travel

Karnataka’s Golden Chariot: royalty and luxury galore

As I mentioned in my previous post, the Golden Chariot is a luxury train run by the Karnataka department of Tourism that takes you on an unforgettable journey to the best sights of Karnataka as well as other south Indian states of Goa, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Pondicherry depending on the option you select.  Named… Continue reading Karnataka’s Golden Chariot: royalty and luxury galore

Karnataka · Travel

Mammoth and monumental: Gommateshvara (Bahubali) at Shravanabelagola

Shravanabelagola town and Jainism Nestled between the Indragiri and Chandragiri hills, Shravanabelagola in Karnataka is one of the oldest and most significant Jain pilgrimage centers in India. Dating all the way to 297 BC, this town is associated with the great ruler Chandragupta Maurya who lived here after he became a Jain ascetic. Jainism flourished… Continue reading Mammoth and monumental: Gommateshvara (Bahubali) at Shravanabelagola

Karnataka · Travel

Kabini in pictures: the perfect date with nature

One of the best wildlife sanctuaries in Karnataka, Kabini is a perfect getaway in case if you want to experience the best of nature.  Synonymous with spectacular wildlife and lush greenery, Kabini was the erstwhile private hunting grounds of the British and Mysore Maharajahs.  While, the Kabini river originates in the Wayanad District of Kerala,… Continue reading Kabini in pictures: the perfect date with nature

Karnataka · Travel

Legendary temples of Lord Ganesha, the God of Beginnings at Hattiangadi and Guddattu

One of the most popular and most worshiped deities in Hindu Mythology is the elephant headed God or Lord Ganesha.  He is believed to be remover of all obstacles and the epitome of all knowledge.  As the Lord of beginnings, He is invoked at the beginning of all rituals, ceremonies and festivals. India, being the land… Continue reading Legendary temples of Lord Ganesha, the God of Beginnings at Hattiangadi and Guddattu

Karnataka · Travel

Mysuru off the beaten track- Part II: Of museums and spirituality

Mysuru as mentioned in this post is a city of many facets.  Though it is the second largest and populous city of Karnataka, it is a city with oodles of old world charm and one where life still moves at a pleasantly slow pace.  A perfect weekend getaway from Bangalore, Mysore never fails to disappoint… Continue reading Mysuru off the beaten track- Part II: Of museums and spirituality

Karnataka · Travel

Tarakeshwara temple, Hangal – an architectural marvel

Beautiful stone pillars, exquisite architecture, elaborate ceilings and remarkable sculptures were just some of the things that had me totally awe inspired when I visited the Tarakeshwara temple in Hangal. The town ruled by the Kadamba dynasty till the 11th century was later controlled by the Hoysalas and then the Chalukayas in the 12th century.… Continue reading Tarakeshwara temple, Hangal – an architectural marvel

Karnataka · Travel

Devaraja Market, Mysore: a potpourri of color, customs and culture

With a penchant for exploring the native spirit and culture of a place, I stepped into the renowned Devaraja market of Mysore on my recent visit to the city.  Over 100 years old, the market is the epitome of vibrancy, activity and vivacity.  A prominent landmark of the heritage city, this market is literally the… Continue reading Devaraja Market, Mysore: a potpourri of color, customs and culture