Monday, December 20, 2010
Friday, December 3, 2010
Wandur National Park
The Wandur National Park comprises about 12 islands and is located about 30 km southwest of Port Blair – the capital city of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Comprising 300 islands, this archipelago is amongst the most far-flung regions of India. Labyrinthine Island groups as they are aptly named because of the channels weaving around and forming a maze – they are home to India's best marine parks.
Most of the islands in the park are densely forested; the open spaces are covered with scrub and creepers. A casual glance around and one can spot brilliant tropical flowers including orchids, broken branches and fallen leaves spread over the jungle pathways. One can also hear the bird calls, but unless in the open, it is difficult to spot the terns, gulls, ospreys, serpent crested eagles, wood pigeons and of course the swifts.
Caves and caverns are another interesting aspect of these islands since most of them are quite rocky. The sandy beaches where the boats can land are interspersed amongst the sheer granite cliffs and walls of the islands.
But the most striking feature of all these islands is the vegetation. Very dense, it comes right down to the shore, seeming to merge into the sea. Branches and creepers overhang and dip into the seawater.
Wandur or Marine National Park is located in the Union Territory of Andaman & Nicobar at a distance of around 30 km from Port Blair, capital of this centrally administrative division of India. The park extends from the latitudes 10°13'-14°N and the longitudes 92°- 93°E, in the Bay of Bengal.
Best time to visit: December to early April. Wandur National Park has a tropical climate. There is medium to heavy rain from May to mid September and November to mid December. There is no extreme climate except rains and tropical storms in late summer, which cause heavy damage.
Tourist attractions:
Jollybuoy – Of all these islands Jollybuoy, which, lies towards the middle of the park, is most famous. The biggest attraction of this island is a sandy beach on its northern end. This beach is encircled by a reef, which is exposed during low tide. Walking carefully over the area one can see the tide pools and in them the sea cucumbers, anemones, starfish, cowries, turbots and spider conch.
Redskin Island – Redskin Island is another important island, which is inhabited by the deer, which were brought here by the British. Approachable by boats that land in sandy coves on either side of the island, Redskin has a large area with numerous caves along the northern cliffs. The interior is still quite densely wooded with mangrove stands along the eastern and southern creeks.
Across the channel is Tarmugli, which has an extensive coral reef on the southwestern side and an idyllic diving cove at the extreme end of the reef. Nearby is Grub Island, a picturesque sand fringed island that is so small, one can walk around it.
At the southern end of the park lie the Twins. Aptly named, the two peaks rise from the deep blue sea, separated by a thin strip clean and clear water.
Marine Life – Having explored the land, it is time to discover the marine life. It begins right at the shore. Take a plunge into the deep and a whole new world unfolds through the diving mask. At first sight everything appears to be a blue haze. Slowly it begins to unravel – the sand below, the coral heads and the amazing variety of fish: brightly colored green parrot fish, blue damsels, yellow butterfly fish, black surgeons, silver jacks – a never-ending parade of sea life.
The richness and diversity of the life on the coral reef is amazing. Take the coral for example – a simple skeleton made up layer by layer by the minute coral polyp. It comes in all shapes, sizes and colors. Of the over 1000 existing species in the world, 135 are found in the Andaman's, alone.
The coral reef itself is made up of solid limestone built over ages through a process of sedimentation. Boulders, walls, peaks, valleys, nooks and corners form the general topography. Brain coral, finger coral, antler coral are some of the common varieties encountered. Plate coral, vase coral and leather coral are scattered all over the reef in patches.
If examined closely it is possible to distinguish the individual coral polyps. Some are as small as a few millimeters where as others can be about a centimeter long. Tentacles, which serve the purpose of collecting food, surround their centrally placed mouth. Though they might look insignificant, all corals, whether branching or spreading are the creation of these countless individuals working in harmony.
Corals derive their color from algae called xooanthellae living inside their flesh. This symbiotic relationship is characteristic of many other species of the reef. The algae help in the formation of the hard limestone coral skeleton and in return it utilizes the coral's metabolic wastes as nutrients.
As the reef is built up over the years it serves as a shelter and haven to other marine life. Fish, crab, lobsters, sea urchins, and shrimps – all start forming the intricate food web, which binds all these creatures to each other. Eat or be eaten is the universal law here. This food web often ends with the most voracious predators. On the reef these are the grouper, the barracuda and the shark. They patrol the outer edges of the reef in search of prey. One wonders who the sharks are prey to.
One of the most interesting sights on the reef is the cleaner wrasse. This particular fish has evolved an innovative and specialized feeding behavior. Its principal food consists of small parasites and to obtain them, it offers a 'cleaning service' to other fish as most fish have these pests clinging to them.
Proceeding further along one is likely to come across the giant clam. It is a spectacular sight with its luminescent mantle. Small ones are easily spotted but the real three feet giant clams are said to exist only along the remote fringes of the park.
Another curious sight is the big anemone and its clownfish that live in association, forming one of the well-known cases of symbiosis. The mobile clownfish cleans and feeds the fixed anemones while the anemone offers shelter to the fish. The anemones can sting mildly and it is best, not to touch them. Then there are five species of clownfish, which occur in the park. Some can be found in three feet of water and easily observed by the snorkeler.
Mangrove - Another marvel of these islands is the mangrove. This hardy tree has its roots in seawater. The leaves and other debris of the mangrove form a very important source of food to the marine life. Like the reef this tree provides a natural buffer against storm waves.
How to reach
Air – Regular flights from Port Blair to Calcutta and Chennai are operated by Indian Airlines.
Road – One can travel to Wandur, from Port Blair, by road.
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Gir National Park
Gir is the only home in India for the Asiatic Lion of which there are nearly 300 in the park. The Gir National Park lies in the Gujarat peninsula in South-Western India. The terrain is rugged with low hills and the vegetation is mixed deciduous, with stands of Teak, Acacia, Jamun, Tendu and Dhak trees, interspersed with large patches of grasslands. The trees on the hills are sparse and stunted.
Within the sanctuary, there are numerous human settlements of cattle herders called Maldharis with an estimated 20,000 head of livestock (which, incidentally, forms a significant part of the Lion’s diet). There are also places of Hindu worship and pilgrimage and sulphur springs at Tulsi Shyam and Kankai Mata. The edges of the park have good population of Indian Gazelle, protected by religious sentiments of the local people.
Wildlife Attractions: A distinct belt of vegetation is found along the main rivers and streams. Species like the Jambu, Karanj, Umro, Vad, Kalam, Charal, Sirus and Amli are mainly found here. These trees are mostly broad leaved and evergreen, giving the area a cool shade and the moisture content. Finally, Prosopis and Casuarina have been planted in the coastal borders as part of the afforestation plan.
The Asiatic Lion: Gir Sanctuary is the last and only home of the critically endangered Asiatic Lion. These lions are a smaller, more compact version of their African counterparts, and are best viewed at dawn or dusk when they are on the move. The major difference between the two is that the African Lion appears larger than the Indian Lion because of its large and luxuriant mane.
The Leopards: Leopard is considered to be one of the most beautiful and graceful animals in the jungle, also the most dangerous one. Popularly known as the Prince of Cats, this animal is the most adaptable among the predators, one of the reasons why it occupies a much larger spread of Gujarat forest cover. In the Gir National Park it is found in all the varied habitats and vegetation types. The approximate population of 210 Leopards resides within the sanctuary area.
Reptiles: Not leaving the water predators behind, Mash crocodiles are often seen along the Kamleshwar Dam Site. Another major attraction among the reptile population of Gir National Park are the numerous non-venomous snakes such as the Indian Rock Python along with the four venomous varieties of Indian Cobra, Common Krait, Saw Scaled Viper, Russell's Viper. Among the lesser-known wildlife of Gir National Park includes the most common animal that can be sighted in the sanctuary, the Chital or Spotted Deer.
Other main wild attractions are Nilgai, Chinkara, Sambhar, Black Bucks, the four horned Antelope, Wild Boar, Indian Flying Foe, Grey Musk Shrew, Indian Hare, Pale Hedgehog, Small Indian Mangoose, Small Indian Civet, Indian Pangolin, Indian Porcupine, Ratel, Indian Fox, and Jackal. The three smaller wildcats - the Jungle Cat, Desert Cat and the Rusty Spotted Cat also inhabit the forest, a fact which shows that the forest is not just meant for the protection of Lions, but the entire cat family.
Avian Population: The forest is also rich in bird life, with an estimated 300 species inhabiting the Gir National Park. Many wildlife experts believe that had Gir not been a Lion sanctuary, it could have easily passed off as a protected area for the incredible diversity of birds that it harbors. The avifauna here occupies the forest floors, small plants and shrubs and even the canopy of the trees. The Paradise Flycatcher, Black Headed Cuckoo Shrike, Pied Woodpecker, Bonelli's Eagle, Creset Serpent Eagle, Painted Sandgrouse, Bush Quail and Grey Partridge are the commonly found varieties in the park.
Safaris: Jeep Safaris are an ideal way to travel inside the park, as the uneven terrain of the park can be conveniently covered on a sturdy vehicle. The park authorities permit you to take your own vehicle inside the park but only with the addition of a park guide. Jeeps can also be hired from the office at Sasan or from the tour operators. Seats should be booked in advance for a ride on the mini bus operated by the park administration. The safari timings are 6:30 to 9:30 am and 3 to 5 pm.
Other Attractions
Tribal Village Visit: A couple of tribes still reside inside the park co-existing with the wild animals. A visit to these tribal villages is an interesting experience that introduces the visitors to the unique lifestyle and ways of living of the tribal people.
Nearby Cities: The historic town of Junagadh has a number of attractions that include forts, palaces and gardens. Shopping options in the town abound with ethnic Rajasthani goods finding the top spot on a shopper's list.
Best time to visit: December to April
How to get there
Air: Nearest airport is Keshod, while it will be ideal to travel by air to Rajkot and take a bus or taxi from here. Another major airport is Ahmedabad, connected to Delhi through daily flights (6:00 and 18:15). Indian Airlines flies Mumbai-Ahmedabad twice a day (5:30 and 19:30)
Rail: The nearest railheads are Sasan Gir and Veraval, while the most convenient railway station is Rajkot. Another railhead is Junagadh, connected to Ahmedabad through the Jabalpur Exp. and Somnath Exp.
Road: State Transport buses are available from Junagadh and Veraval between November and June. Volvo buses run between Ahmedabad and Junagadh. From there a mini bus will take you to Sasan Gir.
Monday, October 11, 2010
Alappuzha
Alappuzha (Alleppey) is an exotic backwater site of India's southern state Kerala. Washed by the Arabian Sea, interlocked by a number of canals and bridges, this tiny marketplace is also famous for its Nehru Trophy boat race held every year. Alappuzha attracts tourists not only by its natural beauty but also through its locally made coir products that are of a very superior quality.
Location: Separated out from the former districts of Kottayam and Quilon, Alappuzha consists of seven taluks spread over an area of 1414 sq km. It is bounded by Kochi and Kanayannur taluks on its north; Vaikom, Kottayam, Changanassery Thiruvalla, Kozhencherry and Adoor taluks on its east; Kannathur and Karunagappally taluks on its south and the exotic Lakshadweep of the Arabian Sea on its west.
Best time to visit: The climate of this small town is temperate and humid in general and relatively more pleasant in the winter season. The temperature ranges from 22 to 35°C in summer and 20 to 32°C during winters. The best time to visit Alappuzha is during the winter season. The months from August-September and February-March are ideal for a visit. The backwater cruises in the exotic houseboats, which also serve Keralan cuisine delicacies, are an eternal experience.
Best time to visit: The climate of this small town is temperate and humid in general and relatively more pleasant in the winter season. The temperature ranges from 22 to 35°C in summer and 20 to 32°C during winters. The best time to visit Alappuzha is during the winter season. The months from August-September and February-March are ideal for a visit. The backwater cruises in the exotic houseboats, which also serve Keralan cuisine delicacies, are an eternal experience.
The Nehru Trophy boat race is the major attraction of this place, which is held during Onam festival celebrated in the month of August. The festivities of the Mullakal temple during the month of December are highly recommended as some of India's finest temple musicians perform in the main hall during this festival. Besides these, the locally made coir and carpets of coconut fibers are also attracting tourists these days.
History: Before the Dutch took over, the Portuguese were the predominant rulers of this place. Later Maharaja Marthandavarma came to power and he gave ample importance to developmental works. Slowly it became a very busy commercial center attracting merchants from all over. This resulted in the establishment of a number of coir factories producing coir-related goods of quality. The first coir factory was developed by an English sea captain and soon others followed. The first Anglican Church was built in 1816 by the Christian missionaries whose headquarter was in Alappuzha.
Tourist attractions
Punnamada Kayal, the must-visit place of Alappuzha where the annual Nehru Trophy boat race takes place. During the month of August-September, the backwaters become crowded with thousands of spectators and a large number of competitors who come to participate in the famous Nehru Trophy boat race. The long boats, designed to resemble snakes, can accommodate 120 people, making two rows of 60 each. The energy, coordination, and the feeling of getting ahead in the competition make this game quite engrossing.
Krishnapuram Temple, the two-storied building, displays the typical Keralan style of architecture. The largest mural painting, Gajendra Miksham, is displayed in a museum here.
Ambalapuzha Temple, where Lord Krishna is worshipped, is also an important place to visit. Here one can see the typical temple architecture and culture of Kerala along with the chance to taste the Keralan delicacy, payasam, which is served to the visitors during the festival times of March/April.
St. Andrew's Church, established by the Portuguese missionaries, celebrates the feast of St. Sebastian in a fun-filled, festive way.
Situated in the heart of the town, Mullackal Temple, dedicated to goddess Rajarajeswari, is also a place worth visiting.
Surrounded by thick-green forests, Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple is a holy place where the king of serpents is worshiped. Number of devotees from all over India and abroad visit this place every year.
The Chettikulangara Bhagavathy Temple is believed to have miraculous powers and hence visited by number of pilgrims every year.
Kottamkulangara Mahavishnu Temple and Devi Temple are the oldest temples of Alappuzha and are sites worth visiting, especially during the time of festivals.
How to reach
Air - Alappuzha is accessible by all the means of communication. The nearest airport is Kochi at a distance of 64 km north. The Trivandrum airport is located 159 km south of Alappuzha.
Water - This exotic place is also well connected through waterways. It is linked by boat and ferry services through the scenic backwaters to Cochin, Kottayam, Kevalam, Changanassery and Chengannur.
Road - Cities like Cochin, Chennai, Howrah, Bangalore and Bokaro are well connected to Alappuzha. National Highway 47 goes through Alappuzha connecting it with almost all the nearby places of South India.
History: Before the Dutch took over, the Portuguese were the predominant rulers of this place. Later Maharaja Marthandavarma came to power and he gave ample importance to developmental works. Slowly it became a very busy commercial center attracting merchants from all over. This resulted in the establishment of a number of coir factories producing coir-related goods of quality. The first coir factory was developed by an English sea captain and soon others followed. The first Anglican Church was built in 1816 by the Christian missionaries whose headquarter was in Alappuzha.
Tourist attractions
Punnamada Kayal, the must-visit place of Alappuzha where the annual Nehru Trophy boat race takes place. During the month of August-September, the backwaters become crowded with thousands of spectators and a large number of competitors who come to participate in the famous Nehru Trophy boat race. The long boats, designed to resemble snakes, can accommodate 120 people, making two rows of 60 each. The energy, coordination, and the feeling of getting ahead in the competition make this game quite engrossing.
Krishnapuram Temple, the two-storied building, displays the typical Keralan style of architecture. The largest mural painting, Gajendra Miksham, is displayed in a museum here.
Ambalapuzha Temple, where Lord Krishna is worshipped, is also an important place to visit. Here one can see the typical temple architecture and culture of Kerala along with the chance to taste the Keralan delicacy, payasam, which is served to the visitors during the festival times of March/April.
St. Andrew's Church, established by the Portuguese missionaries, celebrates the feast of St. Sebastian in a fun-filled, festive way.
Situated in the heart of the town, Mullackal Temple, dedicated to goddess Rajarajeswari, is also a place worth visiting.
Surrounded by thick-green forests, Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple is a holy place where the king of serpents is worshiped. Number of devotees from all over India and abroad visit this place every year.
The Chettikulangara Bhagavathy Temple is believed to have miraculous powers and hence visited by number of pilgrims every year.
Kottamkulangara Mahavishnu Temple and Devi Temple are the oldest temples of Alappuzha and are sites worth visiting, especially during the time of festivals.
How to reach
Air - Alappuzha is accessible by all the means of communication. The nearest airport is Kochi at a distance of 64 km north. The Trivandrum airport is located 159 km south of Alappuzha.
Water - This exotic place is also well connected through waterways. It is linked by boat and ferry services through the scenic backwaters to Cochin, Kottayam, Kevalam, Changanassery and Chengannur.
Road - Cities like Cochin, Chennai, Howrah, Bangalore and Bokaro are well connected to Alappuzha. National Highway 47 goes through Alappuzha connecting it with almost all the nearby places of South India.
Agartala
The capital town of the eastern state of Tripura, Agartala, is a mini storehouse of rich cultural diversity. This is due to the city's physical proximity with the Indo-Bangladesh border, which is just two km away. Agartala moved to its present location in 1850, under the regime of King Maharaja Radha Krishna Kishore Manikya Bahadur. It is known for its twin modern palaces – Ujjayanta and Kunjaban.
Agartala is located in the western part of Tripura, astride the Haroa River. It is 1680 km from Calcutta and 599 km from Guwahati. National Highway No. 44 connects Agartala to Guwahati via Shillong. It takes about 24 hours by road from Guwahati to reach Agartala. The journey time by road between Dhaka and Agartala is approximately three hours.
Best time to visit: The best time to visit Agartala is between October and April. Towards the extremes of this period, one might experience a few showers, but they are quite refreshing. The town is known for its cultural and historical worth, and one can easily notice bright bamboo and cloth umbrellas over ponds. Such parasols are part of the tribal customs of grandsons commemorating the deaths of their grandfathers on their anniversaries.
Agartala was once part of a Hindu kingdom, until the state was taken over by the Mughals in 1733. The British took over the reins of governance in 1808 and Tripura was a princely state until 1956, when it became a Union Territory. When Tripura gained statehood in 1972, Agartala became the state capital.
Tourist attractions: The major interest of the town is the Ujjayanta Palace, which was built in the Indo-Saracenic style in 1901 by Maharaja Radhakishore Manikya. It is a two-storeyed mansion, with 28 hectares of parkland, and now houses the office of the State Legislative Assembly. In the grounds, there are two temples – Umanneshwar and Jagganath – both of which are ochre in color.
Another important attraction is the Kunjaban Palace built in 1917 by Maharaja Birendra Kishore Manikya. It is located about 1 km away from the Ujjayanta Palace on a hillock. The Palace is the official residence of the Governor of Tripura. The southern part of the Palace is open to public and has been named as Rabindra Kanan.
Situated about 55 km from Agartala is Neermahal, Tripura's major tourist attraction. It is a summer resort built in the middle of a lake named Rudrasagar, with a total area of about 5.35 sq. km. It is the only lake palace in Eastern India and has been built in a mixture of Hindu and Mughal styles.
Places around: Near this capital city, there are few places known for the rock cuts and carvings. These include Debtamura, Unakoti and Pilak.
Debtamura is situated 75 km away from Agartala, on the banks of the river Gomati, between Udaipur and Amarpur. It is famous for its panels of rock carvings on the steep mountain wall on the banks of Gomati. There are huge images carved of Shiva, Vishnu, Kartika, Mahisasur Mardini Durga and other gods and goddesses. This is also called Chabimura. These images date back to 15th-16th centuries.Debtamura means God's peak. The beautiful images of deities are carved with a lot of dexterity on the rocky faces of Debtamura which is as steep as 90 degrees. The hill ranges are covered with thick jungles and one can reach this abode of gods only after trekking through these jungles.
Unakoti is located at a distance of about 178 km from Agartala and is a pilgrimage site for Shiva worship. It dates back to the 8th and 9th century. It is surrounded by waterfalls on all sides. In the center is a 30-feet-high statue of Lord Shiva who is called Unakotishwara Kal Bhairava. The main attraction is the Ashokasthami festival held here every year in the month of April.
Pilak is located about 100 km from Agartala and is famous for its carvings in stone and terracotta plaques. These belong to the 8th and 9th century and are spread within an area of 10 sq. km. Mammoth stone images of Narasimha and Avlokiteshwara are seen here.
An important pilgrimage point for the Hindus is the Mata Tripureshwari Temple, which is among the 51 pitha stalas according to Hindu mythology. It is situated at a distance of 58 km from Agaratala. It houses the statue of Goddess Kali. Since it is in the form of a tortoise, it is also called the Kurma Pith.
About 14 km from Agartala is located the Chaturdas Devta Bari Temple. The famous tribal festival of Karachi is a major attraction of this temple and is held in the month of July annually.
Maa Bhubaneshwari Temple was built on the right banks of the Gomti River by Maharaja Govinda Manikya in the 17th century. The Buddha Vihar on Airport Road is in the North of the city and houses the Burmese statues of Lord Buddha. Other important temples of Agartala are Lakshmi Narayan temple, Jagannath temple, Uma Maheshwari temple and Durga temple.
Jampui Hills are located at a distance of about 200 km from Agartala and is famous as the land of the permanent spring. It is at a range of about 300 ft above sea level. The place is known for its natural splendor and serene atmosphere.
Located 55 km south is the city of lakes, Udaipur, which is known for its Mahadev temple and Tripura Sundari temple. Also nearby Agartala are the Sepajhila wildlife sanctuary and Krishna wildlife sanctuary. Dumboor, a locale of abundant natural beauty, is 100 km from Agartala and is famous for its lake and Sankranti Mela held in January. In the vicinity, one can find the temple of Lake Kamlasagar.
Fairs & festivals: The Durga Puja season is generally the busiest time of the year and one can then experience the richness of Indian cultural extravaganza. Agartala is also known for its tribal festivals like Karachi, and Garia Puja.
How to reach
Air - The airport is 12 km to the north and leads on to Agartala via the Ujjyanta Palace. Agartala is well connected with Guwahati, Silchar, Udaipur, Melaghar and Unakoti.
Rail - The nearest railhead is at Kumarghat.
Agartala is located in the western part of Tripura, astride the Haroa River. It is 1680 km from Calcutta and 599 km from Guwahati. National Highway No. 44 connects Agartala to Guwahati via Shillong. It takes about 24 hours by road from Guwahati to reach Agartala. The journey time by road between Dhaka and Agartala is approximately three hours.
Best time to visit: The best time to visit Agartala is between October and April. Towards the extremes of this period, one might experience a few showers, but they are quite refreshing. The town is known for its cultural and historical worth, and one can easily notice bright bamboo and cloth umbrellas over ponds. Such parasols are part of the tribal customs of grandsons commemorating the deaths of their grandfathers on their anniversaries.
Agartala was once part of a Hindu kingdom, until the state was taken over by the Mughals in 1733. The British took over the reins of governance in 1808 and Tripura was a princely state until 1956, when it became a Union Territory. When Tripura gained statehood in 1972, Agartala became the state capital.
Tourist attractions: The major interest of the town is the Ujjayanta Palace, which was built in the Indo-Saracenic style in 1901 by Maharaja Radhakishore Manikya. It is a two-storeyed mansion, with 28 hectares of parkland, and now houses the office of the State Legislative Assembly. In the grounds, there are two temples – Umanneshwar and Jagganath – both of which are ochre in color.
Another important attraction is the Kunjaban Palace built in 1917 by Maharaja Birendra Kishore Manikya. It is located about 1 km away from the Ujjayanta Palace on a hillock. The Palace is the official residence of the Governor of Tripura. The southern part of the Palace is open to public and has been named as Rabindra Kanan.
Situated about 55 km from Agartala is Neermahal, Tripura's major tourist attraction. It is a summer resort built in the middle of a lake named Rudrasagar, with a total area of about 5.35 sq. km. It is the only lake palace in Eastern India and has been built in a mixture of Hindu and Mughal styles.
Places around: Near this capital city, there are few places known for the rock cuts and carvings. These include Debtamura, Unakoti and Pilak.
Debtamura is situated 75 km away from Agartala, on the banks of the river Gomati, between Udaipur and Amarpur. It is famous for its panels of rock carvings on the steep mountain wall on the banks of Gomati. There are huge images carved of Shiva, Vishnu, Kartika, Mahisasur Mardini Durga and other gods and goddesses. This is also called Chabimura. These images date back to 15th-16th centuries.Debtamura means God's peak. The beautiful images of deities are carved with a lot of dexterity on the rocky faces of Debtamura which is as steep as 90 degrees. The hill ranges are covered with thick jungles and one can reach this abode of gods only after trekking through these jungles.
Unakoti is located at a distance of about 178 km from Agartala and is a pilgrimage site for Shiva worship. It dates back to the 8th and 9th century. It is surrounded by waterfalls on all sides. In the center is a 30-feet-high statue of Lord Shiva who is called Unakotishwara Kal Bhairava. The main attraction is the Ashokasthami festival held here every year in the month of April.
Pilak is located about 100 km from Agartala and is famous for its carvings in stone and terracotta plaques. These belong to the 8th and 9th century and are spread within an area of 10 sq. km. Mammoth stone images of Narasimha and Avlokiteshwara are seen here.
An important pilgrimage point for the Hindus is the Mata Tripureshwari Temple, which is among the 51 pitha stalas according to Hindu mythology. It is situated at a distance of 58 km from Agaratala. It houses the statue of Goddess Kali. Since it is in the form of a tortoise, it is also called the Kurma Pith.
About 14 km from Agartala is located the Chaturdas Devta Bari Temple. The famous tribal festival of Karachi is a major attraction of this temple and is held in the month of July annually.
Maa Bhubaneshwari Temple was built on the right banks of the Gomti River by Maharaja Govinda Manikya in the 17th century. The Buddha Vihar on Airport Road is in the North of the city and houses the Burmese statues of Lord Buddha. Other important temples of Agartala are Lakshmi Narayan temple, Jagannath temple, Uma Maheshwari temple and Durga temple.
Jampui Hills are located at a distance of about 200 km from Agartala and is famous as the land of the permanent spring. It is at a range of about 300 ft above sea level. The place is known for its natural splendor and serene atmosphere.
Located 55 km south is the city of lakes, Udaipur, which is known for its Mahadev temple and Tripura Sundari temple. Also nearby Agartala are the Sepajhila wildlife sanctuary and Krishna wildlife sanctuary. Dumboor, a locale of abundant natural beauty, is 100 km from Agartala and is famous for its lake and Sankranti Mela held in January. In the vicinity, one can find the temple of Lake Kamlasagar.
Fairs & festivals: The Durga Puja season is generally the busiest time of the year and one can then experience the richness of Indian cultural extravaganza. Agartala is also known for its tribal festivals like Karachi, and Garia Puja.
How to reach
Air - The airport is 12 km to the north and leads on to Agartala via the Ujjyanta Palace. Agartala is well connected with Guwahati, Silchar, Udaipur, Melaghar and Unakoti.
Rail - The nearest railhead is at Kumarghat.
Saturday, September 18, 2010
Commonwealth Games
This capital city of India has been transformed to welcome tourists during the 2010 Commonwealth Games scheduled to be held from October 3-14. According to recent studies along with tourism; hospitality, aviation and hotel industries will benefited immensely during this bonanza period. Delhi will provide tourists dual enjoyment – amazing tourism as well watching different sport activities.
The Government of India is working rapidly to prepare perfect infrastructure for the Games. Delhi and its suburbs are going to set world class facilities to provide tourists coming from all over the world during this period. New Delhi is already a well-planned modern city with several international features.
However to cater to a huge gathering of international tourists, several steps have been taken to make Delhi city perfect for the event. To make transportation system smooth running, the government has launches several new AC buses. The metro train networks have been extended to Delhi NCR. World class stadiums are ready and improved to cater perfectly for the sports activities.
Airports of major cities of India like Delhi, Nagpur, Mumbai, Bangalore, Goa, Cochin, etc have been modernized. Experts from tourism, hospitality and aviations industries say they expect the event will increase tourism in nearby famous places like Agra, Jaipur, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Fatehpur Sikri, Bharatpur, Ranthambhore, etc. Delhi tourism is also ready to give delightful experience of travel and tourism in India.Tour operators and travel agencies are planning and preparing tour packages for India travel during the event.
They are especially focusing on Agra – famous for world heritage Taj Mahal, the star attractions of India, Jaipur – the Pink City of India, Ranthambhore – the land of tigers, and Corbett National Park. The beautiful hill stations like Shimla, Manali, Kashmir, Mussoorie, etc are also going to witness large gathering of international tourists.
The Games are going to create several jobs among local people. Private sectors like hotels, travel agencies, tour operators, airlines, airports, etc are going to require extra staff to handle large flux of tourists. Thus the 2010 Games are going to set tremendous boom in tourism in India.
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Red Fort
Red Fort in India’s capital Delhi has an inseparable link with India’s independence from the British. Every year on August 15, the Independence Day, the Prime Minister of India hoists the Indian flag on the ramparts of the historical site. 
Red Fort or Lal Quila as it is popularly known in Delhi is a marvel of Indo- Islamic architecture. Made of red stone this very fort was the center of power for more than two centuries. Completed in a span of ten years, according to conservative estimates at least 10 million rupees were spend on it.
Of these around 5 million was spent on palaces and the rest on gardens, fountains and pathways. The fort is typical of Indo-Islamic architecture and has eight facets. The fort has been connected to Salimghad Fort. This beautiful but small fort lies on the Northern side of the main architecture.
The Red Fort is an intimidating red-stone monument and dominates the skyline of the walled city. Although the fort is octagonal and doesn’t have demarked length and breadth but broadly it is 900 meters long and 550 meters wide. The most intimidating part is its high raised wall which is nearly three kilometers in perimeter. The height of the wall reaches 33.5 meters at some places. On the outside, you can still see the pathway that was originally connected with the Yamuna River.
These walls are purely vertical and are very plain in architecture. They are lashed with very heavy courses on the top. There are two major gateways to the fort though there are few minor gateways too. The two major gates are Lahori Gate and Delhi Gate. Among the two the Lahori Gate was the chief entrance in those days. The road from Lahori Gate goes to a covered bazaar, built on the model of Meena Bazaar. This is known as the Chatta Chowk. The whole alley is lined up with shops selling miniatures and mementos.
The pathway leads to a large open space. This space was a four-way crossing once which was a meeting point of East-West street from Lahori Gate and North-South street. The North-South street was very important in that era as it divided Garrision from the residential blocks, situated respectively on the west and east side of the Fort.
To the southern end of this street is the Delhi Gate. To the left side of the gate is a courtyard. It was attached with Diwan-e-Aam, a place reserved for the daily public audience of Emperor. A decorated throne-balcony for the emperor stands at the eastern side of the Diwan-e-Aam. It is said to be the copy of the throne of Solomon, a prophet in Islam, Judaism and Christianity, who was known for his justice.
The two southern pedestals of the palace are Zenana Khana, or women's quarters and a Rang Mahal. The Rang Mahal is famous for its Qasida works on the roof and a marble pool. This pool was the bathing place for the emperor and was fed with the water by the Nahr-i-Behisht, a subsidiary canal of Faiz Nahar. The third pavilion, the Khas Mahal, contains the Royal apartments. Among others it contains bedrooms, prayer rooms, Nagar Khana, Jharokha and the Mussaman Burj. The last one is a tower built close to the walls in order to make it easy for the subjects to see the king during daily communion.
Location: Old Delhi near Jama Masjid
How to Reach: Take an auto or cab or disembark at Chandini Chowk Metro station
Attractions: Diwan-e-Khas, Diwan-e- Aam, Lahore Gate etc
Timing: 9 am to 5 pm
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Bomdila
The small town of Bomdila is perched amongst the panoramic settings of the lofty ranges of the eastern Himalayas. It is a remote destination and like few other Indian towns, it has escaped the virtual tourist invasion in recent times. Bomdila is known for its scenic environs along with its Buddhist monasteries and apple orchids. It also attracts the adventure seeker with its numerous trekking trails.
Bomdila is located in the northwestern part of the state of Arunachal Pradesh, in the northeastern region of India. It is set amongst the mighty Himalayas at an altitude of 2,530 m above sea level. The weather in Bomdila is alpine. Summers (April-June) are short and mild, while winters are cold (November-February). It experiences rainfall between July and September.
The best time to visit Bomdila is between April and October
The origin of Bomdila is lost in time. It was a part of the kingdom of Tibet in medieval times. Local tribal rulers and rulers from Bhutan generally ruled it from time to time. The Ahom rulers of Assam did not interfere with the local tribes except for retaliatory raids into the tribal territory. The British had declared this area of Arunachal Pradesh as off-limits in 1873. The area has remained a cause of disagreement between India and China since India gained independence in 1947. China invaded the area around Bomdila in 1962, but later withdrew its troops from the area.
Tourist attractions: Bomdila is the headquarters of the West Kameng district of the state of Arunachal Pradesh. Bomdila offers to the tourist panoramic view of the awesome Himalayan terrain with its snow-covered mountains. It is famous for its apple orchids and travelers can take a walk through them. It also has a couple of Buddhist monasteries or gompas. The area around Bomdila has a number of trekking and hiking trails that attracts the adventure seeker.
Places around: The small town of Tawang is located north of Bomdila and the journey from Bomdila to Tawang takes the traveler through some breathtaking mountainous terrain. Tawang is perched at a height of over 3,400 m above sea level, and is world-renowned for its 400-year-old Buddhist monastery. The origin of this monastery can be traced to the mid-17th century and is an important Buddhist center of northeast India.
How to reach
Road: Bomdila is located in a remote part of India. It does not have an airport or railway station of its own. It is connected by road with other towns in Arunachal Pradesh and Assam. Bomdila can be reached from the town of Tezpur by local bus or shared jeep.-
Bomdila is located in the northwestern part of the state of Arunachal Pradesh, in the northeastern region of India. It is set amongst the mighty Himalayas at an altitude of 2,530 m above sea level. The weather in Bomdila is alpine. Summers (April-June) are short and mild, while winters are cold (November-February). It experiences rainfall between July and September.
The best time to visit Bomdila is between April and October
The origin of Bomdila is lost in time. It was a part of the kingdom of Tibet in medieval times. Local tribal rulers and rulers from Bhutan generally ruled it from time to time. The Ahom rulers of Assam did not interfere with the local tribes except for retaliatory raids into the tribal territory. The British had declared this area of Arunachal Pradesh as off-limits in 1873. The area has remained a cause of disagreement between India and China since India gained independence in 1947. China invaded the area around Bomdila in 1962, but later withdrew its troops from the area.
Tourist attractions: Bomdila is the headquarters of the West Kameng district of the state of Arunachal Pradesh. Bomdila offers to the tourist panoramic view of the awesome Himalayan terrain with its snow-covered mountains. It is famous for its apple orchids and travelers can take a walk through them. It also has a couple of Buddhist monasteries or gompas. The area around Bomdila has a number of trekking and hiking trails that attracts the adventure seeker.
Places around: The small town of Tawang is located north of Bomdila and the journey from Bomdila to Tawang takes the traveler through some breathtaking mountainous terrain. Tawang is perched at a height of over 3,400 m above sea level, and is world-renowned for its 400-year-old Buddhist monastery. The origin of this monastery can be traced to the mid-17th century and is an important Buddhist center of northeast India.
How to reach
Road: Bomdila is located in a remote part of India. It does not have an airport or railway station of its own. It is connected by road with other towns in Arunachal Pradesh and Assam. Bomdila can be reached from the town of Tezpur by local bus or shared jeep.-
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Maldives
The famous explorer Marco Polo referred to the Maldives as the 'flower of the Indies,' while the great traveler Ibn Batuta called her 'one of the wonders of the world.' The archipelago of Maldives has been a constant source of attraction to many tourists all over the globe. Its golden beaches, washed by the azure waters of the Indian Ocean, are enticing to one who loves to venture into the sea.
Maldives is a group of coral islands that stretch along the 73rd meridian between latitudes 0°42' south and 8°10' north. The shortest distance from the mainland of India is 350 km and from Sri Lanka 740 km. The islands lie in the northern Indian Ocean and the sea area is approximately 107,500 sq km. There are some 1,200 islands in the country, 202 of which are inhabited. The archipelago is 823 km long and 130 km at its greatest width. The islands are formed into 26 natural atolls but they are divided into 19 administrative regions, also known as "atolls."
Each atoll is enclosed by a fringing coral reef that has a few deep, natural channels serving as entry points. Likewise, a protective coral reef surrounds each island. Most islands have a shallow lagoon, known in Maldivian as a villu.
Maldives is a group of coral islands that stretch along the 73rd meridian between latitudes 0°42' south and 8°10' north. The shortest distance from the mainland of India is 350 km and from Sri Lanka 740 km. The islands lie in the northern Indian Ocean and the sea area is approximately 107,500 sq km. There are some 1,200 islands in the country, 202 of which are inhabited. The archipelago is 823 km long and 130 km at its greatest width. The islands are formed into 26 natural atolls but they are divided into 19 administrative regions, also known as "atolls."
Each atoll is enclosed by a fringing coral reef that has a few deep, natural channels serving as entry points. Likewise, a protective coral reef surrounds each island. Most islands have a shallow lagoon, known in Maldivian as a villu.
The islands are very small and low-lying, many of which are no more than two meters above sea level. Common features include white sandy beaches and clear lagoons. The protective coral reef surrounding each island is also home to hundreds of species of tropical fish, countless shapes and sizes of coral seashells and all forms of marine life.
The islands are formed from the growth of coral over long-submerged mountain ranges. These are true coral islands, with no other forms of rocks or minerals visible or within easy reach. As a result, beaches are covered with white coral sand with no trace of yellow or black as seen anywhere else in the world. There are no hills, mountains or rivers in the Maldives. The islands are small, and the coral-based soil is poor in essential nutrients.
Best time to visit : Generally, the year is divided into two monsoon periods: the northeast monsoon or Iruvai lasts from December to March, which are the drier months; the southwest monsoon or Hulhangu lasts from April to November, which are wetter, with more storms and occasional strong winds. Daytime temperatures are about 28°C throughout the year. The humidity is slightly lower in the dry season but on most days, there is a cool sea breeze.
History: Since Maldives was strategically located along the ancient marine trade routes from the West to the East, it was inevitable that early explorers and traders found themselves stopping either willingly (for supplies) or unwillingly (as a result of shipwrecks on the many reefs), and their influence can be seen to this day. Their records serve as a useful guide to the history of these islands. Among these travelers were the Chinese historian, Ma Huan and the famous Arab traveler, Ibn Batuta.
Maldives became an important stop for Arab traders on the way to the Far East, and along with these traders came the influence of Islam. The legend of the conversion to Islam remains a matter of controversy. It is believed that a Moroccan traveler, Abu Barakaat Yusuf al-Barbary was responsible for this conversion, but another version credits Sheikh Yusuf Shamsuddin of Tabriz, a renowned scholar.
From very early times, these islands were famous for two products, the money cowrie (cyprea moneta) and Maldive fish. The cowrie was prized as a form of currency in many areas of the Middle East and the Indian subcontinent, and the Maldives was the mint of the region. Large quantities of the cowrie were exported all over the world, and traders would call over to collect shiploads in exchange for rice, spices and luxury items.
Pirates and other powerful invaders of the day often disturbed the tranquility of the islands. A Portuguese invasion resulted in their capture of the Maldives for a period of fifteen years after which they were overthrown by a mixture of early guerilla tactics and the difficulty of logistical support for the occupying forces. With the growth of British influence, the Maldives became a British protectorate-an odd arrangement where the British ensured the defense of the islands, yet were not involved in any way with the running of the country. The close relationships with the British ensured a period of peace and freedom from foreign interference. The Maldives became a fully independent nation on July 26, 1965, and a Republic on November 11, 1968.
Fairs & festivals: Most Maldivian holidays are based on the Islamic lunar calendar and the dates vary from year to year. The most important religious event is Ramadan (known locally as rorda mas), the Islamic month of fasting. Other notable festivals are Kuda Id, the sighting of the new moon (celebrated at the end of Ramadan), and the Prophet's Birthday, which commemorates the birthday of the founder. The National Day is observed on the first day of the third month of the lunar calendar and marks the day Mohammed Thakurufaan and his men overthrew the Portuguese from Malé in 1573, while the Republic Day is celebrated on 11 November, commemorating the formation of the current Republic in 1968. The Victory Day marks the victory over Sri Lankan mercenaries who tried to overthrow the Maldivian government on 3 November 1988.
Tourists attractions: Malé, the capital of the Maldives, is the commercial center, seat of government and the location of many important historical and religious landmarks. It was known as the Sultan's Island in the past. The Grand Friday Mosque, Masjid-al-Sultan Mohammed Thakurufaan-al-Azzam is the biggest mosque in the Maldives. It also includes the Islamic Center. This grand mosque with its dominant golden dome decorates the façade of Malé. It can accommodate over five thousand worshippers at a time. The old Friday Mosque, with its unique minaret and the tombs of national heroes and members of royalty resting in the quietness of its compound, gives the visitor a glimpse of the past. The art in the mosque and royal burial grounds are exclusive and priceless. Other important sites in Malé include the tombs of legendary saints, the Presidential Palace, the National Museum in the Sultan Park, which shows the glories of a different era, and the Singapore Bazaar. All these are within a ten-minute stroll.
A few locations worth visiting in the Maldives are Seenu or Addu Atoll, Fuamulaku, Kuahuvadhoo, and Baa Atoll.
Adventure sports - For amateurs and experts, the Maldives rank among the best diving destinations in the world. The combination of the diversity of marine life and the clean, clear water are the best succors for enthusiastic explorers of the sea. Diving and snorkeling in the Maldives are a specialty common to all the resorts. All have diving bases and experienced, fully qualified instructors. All equipment required for diving is available at the resort. With a teeming variety of marine life at depths starting from one-meter onwards, there is a sight for everyone, from waders on the beach to snorkelers on the reef to scuba divers below. With very few exceptions, almost all resort islands have a "house reef" which is literally a stone's throw away, allowing 24 hours dives all year round.
While divers make up the bulk of visitors to the Maldives, opportunities abound for activity on the surface as well. Most water sports activities are conducted by the resort's windsurfing center, which is often run by the diving base operator.
The protected waters around the islands are a good site for beginners for windsurfing, and most resorts have a continuous program of instruction for beginners. The shallow lagoons are more suited for the adventurous, as they are more exposed to the prevailing wind. All these areas are free of underwater obstructions.
Most of the larger resorts have an assortment of kayaks and canoes that can be used for a leisurely paddle across a lagoon or to visit a nearby sandbank. Rowing enthusiasts should try out the locally made small boat, called a bokkuraa, which is a miniaturized dhoni powered by oars.
All the windsurfing centers have various sizes of sailing catamarans, which are ideal for both amateurs and experienced sailors who would like to explore the nearby uninhabited islands or sandbanks.
Once a popular pursuit among tourists to the Maldives, most resorts tend to discourage water skiing these days. There have been many complaints that heavy and regular use of fast boats near the reef is detrimental to the environment, as well as a risk to people in the water. The prohibitive cost of petrol and high maintenance costs make water-skiing an expensive sport in the Maldives.
Parasailing is also being discouraged nowadays. The large numbers of helicopter and seaplane movements are causes for concern, albeit the operators are experienced and take all precautions. For those who are lucky and still venture out, the spectacular display of the islands and of the various shades of turquoise lagoons is an ample reward.
How to reach
Air - Almost all visitors to the Maldives arrive by air. Malé International Airport, situated in Hulhule Island, is just over a kilometer or about ten minutes by boat from Malé, the capital. There are regular flights to Colombo (Sri Lanka), Thiruvananthapuram (southwest India), Dubai, and Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia), as well as many chartered flights from European centers.
The tourist resort islands have their own transfer boats to carry their clients. Visitors with confirmed reservations are normally met on arrival at the airport and transferred by boat, helicopter or seaplane to the resort island of their choice. Transport and communication services provided for tourists are generally of a high standard. There is no regular inter-island transportation system between inhabited islands. The ad hoc transportation system is serviced mainly by the local boats, which average a speed of about 8 miles per hour. A larger number of dhonis ply between the Malé International Airport and Malé route as ferries. Dhonis and even modern speedboats are also available for hire. Air Maldives, the national carrier, operates regular flights to the domestic airports at Hanimaadhoo, Kadhdhoo, Kaadedhdhoo and Gan.
Water - Cruising among the islands may be an exciting alternative. Yachts and yacht-dhonis with bunk beds or private cabins are available for hire. These boats can accommodate between eight to twenty passengers on cruises that sail for ten to fifteen days. Some of the larger vessels have scuba diving and windsurfing facilities with qualified instructors on board. Food prepared by the crew using the day's fresh catch of fish may be modest, but a tourist is never too far to stop for a sumptuous meal or a drink. On a cruise, dining under a clear sky in the Maldives can be an experience in itself. With the equator running through the Maldives, it is an astronomer's dream too.
The islands are formed from the growth of coral over long-submerged mountain ranges. These are true coral islands, with no other forms of rocks or minerals visible or within easy reach. As a result, beaches are covered with white coral sand with no trace of yellow or black as seen anywhere else in the world. There are no hills, mountains or rivers in the Maldives. The islands are small, and the coral-based soil is poor in essential nutrients.
Best time to visit : Generally, the year is divided into two monsoon periods: the northeast monsoon or Iruvai lasts from December to March, which are the drier months; the southwest monsoon or Hulhangu lasts from April to November, which are wetter, with more storms and occasional strong winds. Daytime temperatures are about 28°C throughout the year. The humidity is slightly lower in the dry season but on most days, there is a cool sea breeze.
History: Since Maldives was strategically located along the ancient marine trade routes from the West to the East, it was inevitable that early explorers and traders found themselves stopping either willingly (for supplies) or unwillingly (as a result of shipwrecks on the many reefs), and their influence can be seen to this day. Their records serve as a useful guide to the history of these islands. Among these travelers were the Chinese historian, Ma Huan and the famous Arab traveler, Ibn Batuta.
Maldives became an important stop for Arab traders on the way to the Far East, and along with these traders came the influence of Islam. The legend of the conversion to Islam remains a matter of controversy. It is believed that a Moroccan traveler, Abu Barakaat Yusuf al-Barbary was responsible for this conversion, but another version credits Sheikh Yusuf Shamsuddin of Tabriz, a renowned scholar.
From very early times, these islands were famous for two products, the money cowrie (cyprea moneta) and Maldive fish. The cowrie was prized as a form of currency in many areas of the Middle East and the Indian subcontinent, and the Maldives was the mint of the region. Large quantities of the cowrie were exported all over the world, and traders would call over to collect shiploads in exchange for rice, spices and luxury items.
Pirates and other powerful invaders of the day often disturbed the tranquility of the islands. A Portuguese invasion resulted in their capture of the Maldives for a period of fifteen years after which they were overthrown by a mixture of early guerilla tactics and the difficulty of logistical support for the occupying forces. With the growth of British influence, the Maldives became a British protectorate-an odd arrangement where the British ensured the defense of the islands, yet were not involved in any way with the running of the country. The close relationships with the British ensured a period of peace and freedom from foreign interference. The Maldives became a fully independent nation on July 26, 1965, and a Republic on November 11, 1968.
Fairs & festivals: Most Maldivian holidays are based on the Islamic lunar calendar and the dates vary from year to year. The most important religious event is Ramadan (known locally as rorda mas), the Islamic month of fasting. Other notable festivals are Kuda Id, the sighting of the new moon (celebrated at the end of Ramadan), and the Prophet's Birthday, which commemorates the birthday of the founder. The National Day is observed on the first day of the third month of the lunar calendar and marks the day Mohammed Thakurufaan and his men overthrew the Portuguese from Malé in 1573, while the Republic Day is celebrated on 11 November, commemorating the formation of the current Republic in 1968. The Victory Day marks the victory over Sri Lankan mercenaries who tried to overthrow the Maldivian government on 3 November 1988.
Tourists attractions: Malé, the capital of the Maldives, is the commercial center, seat of government and the location of many important historical and religious landmarks. It was known as the Sultan's Island in the past. The Grand Friday Mosque, Masjid-al-Sultan Mohammed Thakurufaan-al-Azzam is the biggest mosque in the Maldives. It also includes the Islamic Center. This grand mosque with its dominant golden dome decorates the façade of Malé. It can accommodate over five thousand worshippers at a time. The old Friday Mosque, with its unique minaret and the tombs of national heroes and members of royalty resting in the quietness of its compound, gives the visitor a glimpse of the past. The art in the mosque and royal burial grounds are exclusive and priceless. Other important sites in Malé include the tombs of legendary saints, the Presidential Palace, the National Museum in the Sultan Park, which shows the glories of a different era, and the Singapore Bazaar. All these are within a ten-minute stroll.
A few locations worth visiting in the Maldives are Seenu or Addu Atoll, Fuamulaku, Kuahuvadhoo, and Baa Atoll.
Adventure sports - For amateurs and experts, the Maldives rank among the best diving destinations in the world. The combination of the diversity of marine life and the clean, clear water are the best succors for enthusiastic explorers of the sea. Diving and snorkeling in the Maldives are a specialty common to all the resorts. All have diving bases and experienced, fully qualified instructors. All equipment required for diving is available at the resort. With a teeming variety of marine life at depths starting from one-meter onwards, there is a sight for everyone, from waders on the beach to snorkelers on the reef to scuba divers below. With very few exceptions, almost all resort islands have a "house reef" which is literally a stone's throw away, allowing 24 hours dives all year round.
While divers make up the bulk of visitors to the Maldives, opportunities abound for activity on the surface as well. Most water sports activities are conducted by the resort's windsurfing center, which is often run by the diving base operator.
The protected waters around the islands are a good site for beginners for windsurfing, and most resorts have a continuous program of instruction for beginners. The shallow lagoons are more suited for the adventurous, as they are more exposed to the prevailing wind. All these areas are free of underwater obstructions.
Most of the larger resorts have an assortment of kayaks and canoes that can be used for a leisurely paddle across a lagoon or to visit a nearby sandbank. Rowing enthusiasts should try out the locally made small boat, called a bokkuraa, which is a miniaturized dhoni powered by oars.
All the windsurfing centers have various sizes of sailing catamarans, which are ideal for both amateurs and experienced sailors who would like to explore the nearby uninhabited islands or sandbanks.
Once a popular pursuit among tourists to the Maldives, most resorts tend to discourage water skiing these days. There have been many complaints that heavy and regular use of fast boats near the reef is detrimental to the environment, as well as a risk to people in the water. The prohibitive cost of petrol and high maintenance costs make water-skiing an expensive sport in the Maldives.
Parasailing is also being discouraged nowadays. The large numbers of helicopter and seaplane movements are causes for concern, albeit the operators are experienced and take all precautions. For those who are lucky and still venture out, the spectacular display of the islands and of the various shades of turquoise lagoons is an ample reward.
How to reach
Air - Almost all visitors to the Maldives arrive by air. Malé International Airport, situated in Hulhule Island, is just over a kilometer or about ten minutes by boat from Malé, the capital. There are regular flights to Colombo (Sri Lanka), Thiruvananthapuram (southwest India), Dubai, and Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia), as well as many chartered flights from European centers.
The tourist resort islands have their own transfer boats to carry their clients. Visitors with confirmed reservations are normally met on arrival at the airport and transferred by boat, helicopter or seaplane to the resort island of their choice. Transport and communication services provided for tourists are generally of a high standard. There is no regular inter-island transportation system between inhabited islands. The ad hoc transportation system is serviced mainly by the local boats, which average a speed of about 8 miles per hour. A larger number of dhonis ply between the Malé International Airport and Malé route as ferries. Dhonis and even modern speedboats are also available for hire. Air Maldives, the national carrier, operates regular flights to the domestic airports at Hanimaadhoo, Kadhdhoo, Kaadedhdhoo and Gan.
Water - Cruising among the islands may be an exciting alternative. Yachts and yacht-dhonis with bunk beds or private cabins are available for hire. These boats can accommodate between eight to twenty passengers on cruises that sail for ten to fifteen days. Some of the larger vessels have scuba diving and windsurfing facilities with qualified instructors on board. Food prepared by the crew using the day's fresh catch of fish may be modest, but a tourist is never too far to stop for a sumptuous meal or a drink. On a cruise, dining under a clear sky in the Maldives can be an experience in itself. With the equator running through the Maldives, it is an astronomer's dream too.
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