Reaching Dharmasthala just as the temple gates closed for the afternoon break was a tad disappointing. Given the fact that it was a long weekend, the highways were crowded and it was a rather tiring drive. Hoards of pilgrims were already queuing up to obtain a darshan of Lord Manjunatha in the evening session at… Continue reading Ageless beauties galore: Manjusha car museum, Dharmastala
The exquisite temples of Pattadakal and Badami in the southern state of Karnataka are yet another illustration of the rich and unique heritage of India. Located less than 500 km from Bangalore, the temples at Pattadakal and Badami demonstrate excellence of the Chalukyan School of Architecture and date between the fifth and eighth century AD.… Continue reading Pattadakal and Badami: Evolution of Chalukyan temple architecture
Located about seven km from the temple town of Udupi is the quiet, seemingly nondescript town of Pajaka. This town is off the conventional pilgrimage circuit of Udupi. However, Pajaka is a town that is significant for a variety of reasons. The foremost of these is the fact that this town is the birthplace of… Continue reading A philosopher’s home: Pajakakshetra, Udupi
South India’s 4,000-year-old history has witnessed the rise and fall of various powerful dynasties including the Pallavas, Cholas, Cheras and Hoysalas. Many of these rulers built elaborate temples that were not only centers of worship but more often than not , they were the nucleus of all activities around which settlements grew. There were also… Continue reading Poetry on stone: Sculptural magnificence of the temples of Halebid & Belur
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
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
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
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
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
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
