Visit Little France of India - Pondicherry

The union territory of Pondicherry is currently referred as Puducherry (in Tamil). Located on the Bay of Bengal, this was a French colony for a long time up to October 1954. The planning of the city reflects French influence with even and odd numbered houses positioned on the opposite sides. Pondicherry is the capital city of the union territory. The closest international airport is the Chennai Airport, which is approximately 135 kms away. The other airports close by are that of Trichy, Bangalore, and Madurai. This destination attracts a large number of foreign and domestic visitors. Road and Rail transport are available from Chennai.

The four districts, which are a part of this union territory, are Pondichery, Karaikal, Yanam, and Mahe. Tourists are advisable to plan their trip between July and February. The French rule of nearly three centuries earned this destination the abbreviation 'The French Riviera of the East'. The most comfortable procedure for visiting the town is by bicycle or auto rickshaw. The Sri Aurobindo Ashram, the world famous ashram is usually the most desired destination. This is an ideal destination for a peaceful vacation. The Botanical Garden, Bharati Park attracts tourists to spend a calm time.

The sea beaches around Pondicherry attract visitors. Visitors prefer spending time at the 1.5 km long Serenity Beach. You will be surprised to know that this calm beach has witnessed battles between the French and the British. Plage Paradiso or the Paradise Beach located at Chunnambar is another preferred destination. Options remaining are the Karaikal Beach for sunrise, Mahe Beach and Yanam River Cruise. Pondicherry offers Churches, the Temples, and the Mosques for visitors with different religious backgrounds to offer their respect to their belief. The hotels available here are according to ones pocket. People even like to stay at the Aurobindo Ashram. This is also an ideal shopping destination as products are available at competitive prices.

The Most Spectacular Waterfalls in India

If you happen to be a photographer or an avid fan of nature, there is perhaps no better place than a waterfall to satiate your fancy to the core. The sight of water in motion, the plumes of mist protruding like smoke and stunning scenery nearby (often a waterfall lies amidst greenery) creates a magical atmosphere that can breed poetry in prolific mind. Truly exploring waterfalls is a treat for eyes and senses, and can add enchanting moments to your memorabilia. Here is a selection of the most popular and most scenic waterfalls in India.

Barehipani Falls: This one of the remotest waterfalls in India (located within the Simlipal national Park) is on Budha Balanga River, Mayurbhanj (Orissa). The scenic beauty of this place is sure to leave you spell bound. The nearest railway station is Balasore, and for the rest journey, the waterfall is connected by a smooth road. The shimmering water here falls from the height of 399 m. It's really incredible!

Toseghar Waterfall: A popular tourist attraction, this beautiful fall is accessible by bus from Pune. Situated amidst lush green Western Ghats in Satara district, Toseghar features heart-touching scenery. The height of this amazing fall is somewhere around 300m.

NohKalikai Falls, Chirrapunji: this beautiful region in northeast India state Meghalaya is popular as place that receives highest rainfall in the country. But one more reason for this region to be far-famed is Nohkalikai Fall, which is one of the most picturesque and highest waterfalls (335m) in India.

Athirappilly Waterfalls: This one of the most famous waterfalls in Kerala is sure a renowned tourist spot of the state. It's located on the Chalakudy River, in the Western Ghats, and is surrounded by a number of natural fascinations including the nearby Vazhachal Falls.

Dudhsagar Fall: perhaps the most popular in the list, this monster of a waterfall is situated on the Goa-Karnataka border, and is well-known for an incredible white (milky) layer of water generated from the fall. There is a small pond at the base of waterfall. Some daring people take bath there. Water is quite chilly and current is exceptionally swift. The Waterfall comes under territory of Bhagwan Mahavir Wild Life Sanctuary at Collem in South Goa.

Today planning for a trip to these marvelous facets of nature has got easier with availability and booking of travel facilities online. Whether you take a trip to Goa or a pleasing Singapore holiday, a variety of vacation packages are available to add more delights to your holiday. You just need to find a suitable deal, considering your needs and budget. Dealing with a reliable travel agency is however imperative, if you want to be treated well during your trip.

Imagination is the Key to the Perfect Tree House

 

In a society heavy on technology, today's children spend more time in front of TV and computer screens than slathering on sunscreen to play outside.A new report from the Kaiser Family Foundation reveals that young Americans between ages 8 and 18 spend more than seven and a half hours a day using a computer, smartphone, TV, video game console, and other electronic devices, an alarming increase from an hour and a half in 2004."We thought we'd hit the ceiling in 2004, and now we see the ceiling shattered," said Vicki Rideout, director of the Kaiser Family Foundation's Program for the Study of Media and Health.If you're looking for a way to tear your children away from their gadgets and gizmos, consider a family project such as building a tree house. Not only will the treetop playhouse provide your kids with a private place to use their imagination and pull them away from the X-Box, but constructing the tree house can also be a family affair from start to finish.Involve your kids from the start by asking them to cut out pictures from magazines or newspapers of houses or buildings they like and ask for their design ideas. Above all, make it fun - the tree house should inspire young imaginations."I love getting kids outside in the trees to experience nature," said Barbara Butler, a tree house designer whose résumé boasts work for clients such as Robert Redford, Kevin Kline, Bobby McFerrin, and Walt Disney Productions. "If I can incorporate the illusion of mystery and danger in my tree houses, kids really respond."Want to add some fun and intriguing elements to your tree house but fresh out of ideas? Here are seven tips that are sure to please your youngsters - and lure them away from the computer:· A ladder is an essential component of any respectable tree house. Whether a traditional wooden ladder, the more inventive rope ladder, or even a more sophisticated staircase, make sure to include this in your design.· Zip lines can be incorporated into numerous games. Kids love the sensation of flying, so they will be thrilled with this addition. The safety factor is paramount here, however. Instead of using a simple handlebar, which makes the possibility of a painful fall much more likely, try installing a seat with handgrips.· A fireman's pole inspires creativity. Countless games of firefighter will ensue after you install this feature. Secure the bottom of the pole into a concrete base and ensure the concrete is completely dry before allowing children to slide their way down to answer the call of the fire bell.· A rope bridge is the perfect way to lend a sense of adventure to your structure. Use two trees that are about 10 feet apart for maximum bridge potential. To prevent any falls, leave a gap of only an inch or so between each board, and make sure the "rails," whether rope or chain, are secure.· Slides and swings satisfy the constant need for motion. The options are endless: tire swings, molded plastic swings, wooden swings, and buoy ball swings are all popular tree house facets, and slides are available in all shapes and sizes. Lay down a deposit of soft wood chips, moss, or another soft material to cushion any potential falls.· Crow's nests offer the perfect perch to survey the surroundings. These are especially popular with a pirate or castle theme. One method of adding a crow's nest to a tree house is to use half of an old wine barrel, which can be found at your local garden supply store. Make sure you have a level and sturdy platform and that the ladder extends higher than the crow's nest for safe ascent and descent.· Trap doors go perfectly with a fireman's pole or on their own. Is it a secret escape or a portal to another world? Beef up playtime potential with another kid favorite. While the typical trap door is square with the frame built into the floor joists, feel free to step outside the box. Try a triangular or hexagonal door. Just remember to allow sufficient room for a child to get through.

In a society heavy on technology, today's children spend more time in front of TV and computer screens than slathering on sunscreen to play outside.
A new report from the Kaiser Family Foundation reveals that young Americans between ages 8 and 18 spend more than seven and a half hours a day using a computer, smartphone, TV, video game console, and other electronic devices, an alarming increase from an hour and a half in 2004.
"We thought we'd hit the ceiling in 2004, and now we see the ceiling shattered," said Vicki Rideout, director of the Kaiser Family Foundation's Program for the Study of Media and Health.
If you're looking for a way to tear your children away from their gadgets and gizmos, consider a family project such as building a tree house. Not only will the treetop playhouse provide your kids with a private place to use their imagination and pull them away from the X-Box, but constructing the tree house can also be a family affair from start to finish.
Involve your kids from the start by asking them to cut out pictures from magazines or newspapers of houses or buildings they like and ask for their design ideas. Above all, make it fun - the tree house should inspire young imaginations.
"I love getting kids outside in the trees to experience nature," said Barbara Butler, a tree house designer whose résumé boasts work for clients such as Robert Redford, Kevin Kline, Bobby McFerrin, and Walt Disney Productions. "If I can incorporate the illusion of mystery and danger in my tree houses, kids really respond."
Want to add some fun and intriguing elements to your tree house but fresh out of ideas? Here are seven tips that are sure to please your youngsters - and lure them away from the computer:
· A ladder is an essential component of any respectable tree house. Whether a traditional wooden ladder, the more inventive rope ladder, or even a more sophisticated staircase, make sure to include this in your design.
· Zip lines can be incorporated into numerous games. Kids love the sensation of flying, so they will be thrilled with this addition. The safety factor is paramount here, however. Instead of using a simple handlebar, which makes the possibility of a painful fall much more likely, try installing a seat with handgrips.
· A fireman's pole inspires creativity. Countless games of firefighter will ensue after you install this feature. Secure the bottom of the pole into a concrete base and ensure the concrete is completely dry before allowing children to slide their way down to answer the call of the fire bell.
· A rope bridge is the perfect way to lend a sense of adventure to your structure. Use two trees that are about 10 feet apart for maximum bridge potential. To prevent any falls, leave a gap of only an inch or so between each board, and make sure the "rails," whether rope or chain, are secure.
· Slides and swings satisfy the constant need for motion. The options are endless: tire swings, molded plastic swings, wooden swings, and buoy ball swings are all popular tree house facets, and slides are available in all shapes and sizes. Lay down a deposit of soft wood chips, moss, or another soft material to cushion any potential falls.
· Crow's nests offer the perfect perch to survey the surroundings. These are especially popular with a pirate or castle theme. One method of adding a crow's nest to a tree house is to use half of an old wine barrel, which can be found at your local garden supply store. Make sure you have a level and sturdy platform and that the ladder extends higher than the crow's nest for safe ascent and descent.
· Trap doors go perfectly with a fireman's pole or on their own. Is it a secret escape or a portal to another world? Beef up playtime potential with another kid favorite. While the typical trap door is square with the frame built into the floor joists, feel free to step outside the box. Try a triangular or hexagonal door. Just remember to allow sufficient room for a child to get through.


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/3720560

The Mesmerizing Hills of Chikmagalur

 

 Situated in south-western part of Karnataka, Chikmagalur is a small picturesque town in the foothills of Mullayanagiri range and is famous for its coffee cultivation. Chikmagalur literally means 'town of younger daughter'. It is believed that the town was presented as a dowry to the younger daughter of the chief of Sakrepatna, Rukmangada. The other part of the town, Hiremaglur was given as dowry to elder daughter of Rukmangada. Chikmagalur is also the first place in India where coffee was cultivated for the very first time. Babu Budan, an Islamic Saint, is accredited with bringing the coffee seeds to Chikmagalur from Yemen. An entire range of mountains in the north of Chikmagalur town is named after him. With its numerous waterfalls, rivers, endless hillocks, green valleys and varied wildlife, Chikamagalur attracts many tourists. The fact that Chikmagalur is also located close to Hassan, Belur, Halebeedu and many other tourist getaways, further increases its popularity.

One of the prime attractions in Chikmagalur is the Mullain Giri which is the highest peak in Karnataka. Placed at an average height of about 6,300 ft above sea level, the peak offers a gorgeous view of the Baba Budangiri Hills. A Shiva temple was built on top of the mountain and a Nandi sits beside it prettily in an open hut. Rivers like Tunga and Bhadra have their sources in the mountains which form an integral part of the Western Ghats. The unrivaled scenic beauty, thick green valleys, coffee plantations, silver oakwood forests & magnificent mountain ranges presents the traveler to enjoy the luxury of nature. Take a walk in the lush coffee plantation and enjoy the breathtaking scenery. Get to know about the different process in coffee cultivation while you sip on a cup of freshly brewed coffee.

Chikmagalur also offers lot of trekking opportunities which will completely satisfy an adventure seeker. One of the best trekking trails around Chikmagalur is the one to Kemmanagundi which is a beautiful hill station located amidst the lush forests of the Baba Budangiri hills. Enjoy the panoramic views full of cascading waterfalls and rivers that you will come across during your trek. Enjoy the view of Manikyadhara falls which is considered sacred by the locals. It is believed that a Saint and four of his disciples came to this place for water to quench their thirst. After a long wait, all of their prayers were answered when they were blessed with water from Manikyadhara Falls that originated from the mountains.

The hill station of Chikmagalur is a great choice if you want to get away from the crowds and enjoy the serenity of nature and its endowments. The place is not much frequented by tourists so you will be able to enjoy your holidays in peace and tranquility.

Situated in south-western part of Karnataka, Chikmagalur is a small picturesque town in the foothills of Mullayanagiri range and is famous for its coffee cultivation. Chikmagalur literally means 'town of younger daughter'. It is believed that the town was presented as a dowry to the younger daughter of the chief of Sakrepatna, Rukmangada. The other part of the town, Hiremaglur was given as dowry to elder daughter of Rukmangada. Chikmagalur is also the first place in India where coffee was cultivated for the very first time. Babu Budan, an Islamic Saint, is accredited with bringing the coffee seeds to Chikmagalur from Yemen. An entire range of mountains in the north of Chikmagalur town is named after him. With its numerous waterfalls, rivers, endless hillocks, green valleys and varied wildlife, Chikamagalur attracts many tourists. The fact that Chikmagalur is also located close to Hassan, Belur, Halebeedu and many other tourist getaways, further increases its popularity.
One of the prime attractions in Chikmagalur is the Mullain Giri which is the highest peak in Karnataka. Placed at an average height of about 6,300 ft above sea level, the peak offers a gorgeous view of the Baba Budangiri Hills. A Shiva temple was built on top of the mountain and a Nandi sits beside it prettily in an open hut. Rivers like Tunga and Bhadra have their sources in the mountains which form an integral part of the Western Ghats. The unrivaled scenic beauty, thick green valleys, coffee plantations, silver oakwood forests & magnificent mountain ranges presents the traveler to enjoy the luxury of nature. Take a walk in the lush coffee plantation and enjoy the breathtaking scenery. Get to know about the different process in coffee cultivation while you sip on a cup of freshly brewed coffee.
Chikmagalur also offers lot of trekking opportunities which will completely satisfy an adventure seeker. One of the best trekking trails around Chikmagalur is the one to Kemmanagundi which is a beautiful hill station located amidst the lush forests of the Baba Budangiri hills. Enjoy the panoramic views full of cascading waterfalls and rivers that you will come across during your trek. Enjoy the view of Manikyadhara falls which is considered sacred by the locals. It is believed that a Saint and four of his disciples came to this place for water to quench their thirst. After a long wait, all of their prayers were answered when they were blessed with water from Manikyadhara Falls that originated from the mountains.
The hill station of Chikmagalur is a great choice if you want to get away from the crowds and enjoy the serenity of nature and its endowments. The place is not much frequented by tourists so you will be able to enjoy your holidays in peace and tranquility.


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7743036