140 kms from Bangalore lies the abode of untold grandeur and glory. Mysore, the capital city of the Wodeyars has always enchanted its admirers with its quaint charm, rich heritage, magnificent palaces, beautifully laid-out gardens, imposing buildings, broad shady avenues and sacred temples. There's an old world charm about the city that reaches out and leaves no one untouched. Mysore is one of the major cities of Karnataka. Today, Mysore is a vibrant city teeming with tourists and visitors. It is known by the entire world for its exotic sandalwood and rich silks. Its grand and imposing palaces, majestic temples, gardens leave an ever-lasting impression on the visitor. Situated 770mtrs above sea level Mysore has a warm and cool climate throughout the year.
Sightseeing:
Mysore Palace:
The Maharaja's Palace is one of the important sights in Mysore. Built in Indo-Saracenic style with domes, turrets, arches and colonnades the Palace is a treasure house of exquisite carvings and works of art from all over the world.
Chamundi Hills:
A well known 335 metres high landmark, Chamundi Hill can be reached by a 13 km road or by climbing up the 1,000 steps laid out by the Mysore Maharaja in the 17th century.
Brindavan Gardens:
Located at the KR Sagar Dam [Kannambadi], Brindavan Gardens is one of the best gardens in South India. Spread over 150 acres, Brindavan Gardens has since the 1960s provided the backdrop for many Indian films. Special attractions include the 'Dancing Fountains'. In Dec 2004 the entire garden was revamped with new fountains and lights.
St. Philomena's Church:
A beautiful Cathedral, reminiscent of medieval architectural style is one of the largest churches in the country. Built in the gothic style, the Church is an imposing structure with stained glass windows and lofty towers.
Mysore Zoo:
The Mysore Zoo was set up under royal patronage in the nineteenth century. Its fauna includes rare and exotic species which are housed in lush, green surroundings. The Zoo is famous for breeding some very rare animals in captivity.
The Art Gallery:
The Jaganmohan Palace was converted into an art gallery in 1875 and exhibits paintings which date back to that period. The artists of that time used natural vegetable and mineral dyes. The famous traditional Mysore 'gold leaf ' paintings are also exhibited in the gallery, as are oil paintings of contemporary artist like Raja Ravi Varma and Svetoslav Roerich.
Daria Daulat Bagh:
Tipu's Summer Palace, built in 1784 is located here. Made of teak, this Indo-Sarcenic structure has ornate and beautiful frescos. It is now a museum and tells eloquently of Tipu's valor and his losing battle against the British.
Fort:
It is here that Tipu charged at the British soldiers with his legendary sword. An obelisk in the fort marks the place where he fell - betrayed by his own men. The fort holds within it a mosque and the Ranganathaswamy Temple. Outside the fort is the Gumbaz, Tipu's tomb with splendid ebony doors inlaid with ivory.
Himvad Gopalaswamy Hills:
This is a popular hill resort and a trekker's delight as well. It is situated in the verdant Western ghats of Mysore District. Her the temple is dedicated to Lord Hoysala.
Melkote:
Situated 50 kms North of Mysore, Melkote is a sacred pilgrim centre known for its Vairamundi festival in March-April. More than one lakh devotees congregate here for the festival. Melkote is also famous for its handlooms. Ramanucharya, the Shrivaishnava saint-philosopher took shelter here from his persecutors.
Talakad:
48 kms from Mysore Talakad is situated on the banks of the river Cauvery and is completely buried beneath sand dunes. Only the Dravidian style Vaidyeshwara temple is visible above the ground. Its temples are opened for ceremonial worship on special occasions - once in twelve years.
How to reach there
Daria Daulat Bagh: The nearest Airport to Mysore is Bangalore (139 km). All the domestic airlines in the country operate their flights to Bangalore from all the major cities in the country. Some international airlines too have flights to Bangalore.
The Windflower Spa & Resort
Package Cost per Person:
Room Category
Adult in Twin
Extra Adult
Child No Bed
Executive Room
Rs. 4,500
Rs. 2,000
Rs. 2,000
Deluxe Room
Rs. 5,400
Rs. 2,000
Rs. 2,000
Club Suite
Rs. 7,200
Rs. 2,000
Rs. 2,000
Cost Includes:
* Accommodation for 2 nights / 3 days on double / twin sharing basis.
* Daily fixed menu / buffet breakfast.
Cost Excludes:
* Air / Train fare.
* Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, tips, liquor, boating joy rides.
* Any other item not mentioned in "Inclusions".
* Government Service Tax @ 3.09% would be extra on the total billing.
Note:
* The above rates are subject to change without prior notice.
* Above rates are not valid during Christmas and New Year. Peak season surcharge will be applicable as per the individual hotel policy.
Valid Till: 31st March 2010
Hotel Ramanashree
Package Cost per Person:
Room Category
Adult in Twin
Extra Adult
Child No Bed
Executive Room
Rs. 2,999
Rs. 1,160
Rs. 1,160
Club Premier Room / Club Room
Rs. 3,455
Rs. 1,160
Rs. 1,160
Suite Room
Rs. 5,532
Rs. 1,160
Rs. 1,160
Cost Includes:
* Accommodation for 02 nights / 03 days on twin sharing basis.
* Daily fixed menu / buffet breakfast.
Cost Excludes:
* Air / Train fare.
* Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, tips, liquor, boating joy rides.
* Any other item not mentioned in "Inclusions".
* Government Service Tax @ 3.09% would be extra on the total billing.
Note:
* The above rates are subject to change without prior notice.
* Above rates are not valid during Christmas and New Year. Peak season surcharge will be applicable as per the individual hotel policy.
Valid Till: 31st March 2010
Hotel Pai Vista
Package Cost per Person:
Room Category
Adult in Twin
Extra Adult
Child No Bed
Comfort Room
Rs. 3,460
Rs. 1,340
Rs. 1,340
Luxury Room
Rs. 4,050
Rs. 1,340
Rs. 1,340
Club Suite
Rs. 5,200
Rs. 1,340
Rs. 1,340
Cost Includes:
* Accommodation for 02 nights / 03 days on twin sharing basis.
* Daily fixed menu / buffet breakfast.
Cost Excludes:
* Air / Train fare.
* Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, tips, liquor, boating joy rides.
* Any other item not mentioned in "Inclusions".
* Government Service Tax @ 3.09% would be extra on the total billing.
Note:
* The above rates are subject to change without prior notice.
* Above rates are not valid during Christmas and New Year. Peak season surcharge will be applicable as per the individual hotel policy.
Valid Till: 31st March 2010
Hotel Regaalis
Package Cost per Person:
Room Category
Adult in Twin
Extra Adult
Child No Bed
Superior Room
Rs. 5,500
Rs. 2,200
Rs. 2,200
Club Room
Rs. 6,050
Rs. 2,200
Rs. 2,200
Cost Includes:
* Accommodation for 02 nights / 03 days ontwin sharing basis.
* Daily fixed menu / buffet breakfast.
* Hotel taxes as applicable.
Cost Excludes:
* Air / Train fare.
* Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, tips, liquor, boating joy rides.
* Any other item not mentioned in "Inclusions".
* Government Service Tax @ 3.09% would be extra on the total billing.
Note:
* The above rates are subject to change without prior notice.
* The above rates are not valid during any festive period or long weekend.
* Above rates are not valid during Christmas and New Year. Peak season surcharge will be applicable as per the individual hotel policy.
1525 mtrs above sea level lies Madikeri, the district headquarters of Kodagu. Coorg or Kodagu (originally called Kodaimalenadu) means 'dense forest on steep hill'. Dubbed as the Scotland of India, this town has a lot to offer to the tourist. Misty hills, lush forest, acres and acres of tea and coffee plantation, orange groves, undulating streets and breathtaking views are what that make Madikeri an unforgettable holiday destination. Coorg is on the Western Ghats. Set amidst verdant valleys, imposing mountains and teak wood forests, this is one of the most beautiful hill stations you can visit. It lies on Karnataka's Southwestern end, covering an area of 4,102 sq km.
Activity:
Trekking:
Coorg has many verdant trekking routes in the midst of forests and hills and it is best to go in the months from October to February. Some of the known trails are in the hills of Brahmagiri, where you could trek your way to the Irrupa Falls. You could also consider trekking to Pushpagiri, the second highest peak of Kodagu and Tadiandamol (the highest peak).
Golf:
Avid golfers can tee off at the 9-hole course of Virajpet.
Angling:
Valanoor is the backwater of the river Cauvery. It draws fishing lovers from all over India. You can try and catch the famous mahaseer and the best season is from October to May.
St. White Water Rafting:
There are few good camps around Coorg that offer rafting down the Cauvery River. For some fast paced action, visit the Upper Barapole River to the South of Coorg in Brahmagiri. The best time for rafting is from mid-June to mid-September.
Sightseeing
Madikeri Fort:
This 19th century fort, in the centre of Madikeri houses a temple, a chapel, prison and a small museum. The fort offers a beautiful view of Madikeri.
Raja's Seat:
According to legend, the kings of Kodagu spent their evenings here. But what's unforgettable about Raja's seat is the spectacular sunset that one can enjoy from here.
Talakaveri / Talacauvery:
River Kaveri which is one of the 7 sacred rivers of Sapta Sindhus of the Hindu scriptures, originated at a place is called Talakaveri (head of Cauvery) in the Brahmagiri hills at about 4,500 ft above sea level. This place is marked by a tirtha kundike or Brahma kundike (small spring / pond) from where the river emerges as a small perennial spring but flows underground again to emerge a short distance away. It is about 48 kms from Madikeri.
Iruppu Falls:
There is a sacred spot called Iruppu in south Kodagu on the Brahmagiri range of hills. River Lakshmana-tirtha flows nearby. Legend says that Rama and Lakshmana, warrior Gods, passed this way while searching for Rama's concert Sita.
Abbey Falls:
A big attraction for tourists and filmdom alike is the Abbey Falls, 8 kms from Madikeri. Even during the summer there is plenty of water in these falls. The roar of the falls can be heard from the main road from where a path goes through lovely coffee and cardamom plantations right up to them. The chirping of innumerable birds which are easier heard then seen, fill the air with sweet music.
Dubare:
This is mainly an elephant capturing and training camp of the Forest Department, at the edge of Dubare forest on the bank of river Kaveri on the Kushalnagar - Siddapur road. The largest land animal is captured here with the help of tamed elephants and local tribals - the Kurbas - and is held captive for upto 6 months in large teak wood cages.
Nagarhole National Park:
The place derives its name from the winding river - Nagarhole meaning "snake river" - which flows through the park. The 640 sq km of gently undulating terrain at the foothills of the Brahmagiri hills is covered with thick tropical forest, grassy swamps and numerous rivers and streams. The park and animal life is part of the country's first "bio-sphere reserve".
Valanoor:
Valanoor, 30 kms from Mercara, the back waters of river Cauvery is one of the most beautiful Angling sites in Karnataka. Types of fish include Golden-Masheer, Maral and Map. License / permit can be arranged by local tourist agents.
Nisargadhama:
Cauvery Nisargadhama is situated about 36 kms from Madikeri. This is an ideal picnic spot visited by hundreds of tourists throughout the year. It is an island in the middle of the river connected by a rope bridge. You can do boating or go for elephant rides as well as visit the elephant training camp run by the Forest Department at Dubare (8 kms further).
Bhagamandala:
When the river Cauvery flows downhill, it is joined by two more tributaries - Kanake and Sujyoti. The spot where all three converge (the Cauvery, the Kanika and the Sujyothi) is called Bhagamandala. The temple here built in Kerala style has smaller shrines dedicated to various gods. It is about 40 kms from Madikeri.
Harangi Dam:
Harangi Dam is a great picnic spot 36 kms from Madikeri.
How to reach there
Closest Airport is Bangalore (260 km), Mangalore (135 km). Closest railway station is Mysore (146 km). The Mysore - Mangalore highway (NH 48) passes through Kodagu. The district headquarters Madikeri (Mercara) is 260 km from Bangalore and 120 km from Mysore. The distance from Mangalore is 136 km and from Cannanore and Tellicherry it is about 115 km. There are regular buses plying from these places to Madikeri.
Orange County
Package Cost per Person:
Room Category
Adult in Twin
Extra Adult
Child No Bed
Luxury Tent
Rs. 12,999
NA
NA
Private Pool Villa
Rs. 17,500
Rs. 4,000
Rs. 2,640
Cost Includes:
* Accommodation for 02 nights / 03 days on twin / double sharing basis.
* Welcome drink on arrival.
* Daily fixed menu / buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner.
* One session of guided Plantation Tour & Forest Trek.
Cost Excludes:
* Air / Train fare.
* Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, tips, liquor, boating joy rides.
* Any other item not mentioned in "Inclusions".
* Government Service Tax @ 3.09% would be extra on the total billing.
Note:
* The above rates are subject to change without prior notice.
* The above rates are not valid during any festive period or long weekend.
* Above rates are not valid during Christmas and New Year. Peak season surcharge will be applicable as per the individual hotel policy.
Located on the Servaroyan Hills in Salem District, Yercaud is a hill station visited by tourists throughout the year. The Servaroyan Hills as a whole provide many beautiful vistas and panoramic views. Yercaud itself is a pretty hill station with a pleasant cool climate. Yercaud's temperature never rises above 30° C or falls below 13° C. This is one hill station where one does not feel the biting cold of winter. With such a salubrious climate, Yercaud can be visited round the year. It is an hour's drive from Salem and is the least expensive hill station in India.
Sightseeing
Yercaud Lake:
The first thing that attracts a visitor is the lake. It is a picturesque pool surrounded by gardens and well wounded areas. Boating in the cold water of the lake is enchanting as well as refreshing.
Anna Park:
This is a lovely garden near the lake.
Lady's Seat:
It overlooks the winding ghat road and provides a breathtaking view. This view is spectacular at night with the twinkling lights of Salem town in sight. The tourists can have a panoramic view of the plains below, through the telescope mounted at the Lady's Seat.
Killiyur Falls:
This 3000 feet high water falls is situated amidst picturesque surroundings.
The Grange:
The castle - like building built by the then Collector of Salem, M.D. Cockburn who first introduced coffee from Arabia, apples and other fruits from South Africa between 1820 AD and 1829 AD in Yercaud is said to have played an important role in the revolt of 1857 AD.
Bear's Cave:
It is situated near the Norton Bungalow on the way to Servaroyan temple. It is an important tourist spot. Temple in this place is one of the six abodes of Lord Subramanya. Its innermost shrine is cut out of a solid rock.
The Servaroyan Temple:
It is situated atop Servorayan Hill. The tribals here celebrate their annual festival in May every year.
How to reach there
Nearest domestic airport is Trichy, 180 km away from Yercaud. The nearest railway stations are Salem (36 km). Yercaud is 190 km from Coimbatore and 237 km from Bangalore
Sterling Yercaud
Package Cost per Person:
Room Type
Per Person Rate
Extra Person
Standard
Rs. 2,375
Rs. 675
Deluxe Room
Rs. 2,650
Rs. 675
Suite Room
Rs. 3,220
Rs. 675
Luxury Suite
Rs. 4,340
Rs. 675
Cost Includes:
* Accommodation for 2 nights / 3 days on double / twin sharing basis.
* Daily fix menu breakfast.
* All applicable hotel taxes.
Cost Excludes:
* Air / Train fare.
* Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, tips, liquor, boating joy rides.
* Any other item not mentioned in "Inclusions".
* Government Service Tax @ 3.09% would be extra on the total billing.
Note:
* Above rates are not valid during Christmas and New Year. Peak season surcharge will be applicable as per the individual hotel policy.
Ooty also known as Udhagamandalam is the "Queen of hill stations" and the capital of Nilgiris district. It is one of the most popular tourist resorts in India. Nilgiris means "Blue Mountains". It is a land of picturesque picnic spots. Used to be popular summer and weekend getaway for the Britishers during the colonial days. It is situated at an altitude of 2,240 meters above sea level. An added attraction for the tourists to Udagamandalam is the mountain train journey on a ratchet and pinion track which commences from Kallar, near Mettupalayam and wends its way through many hair-raising curves and fearful tunnels and chugs along beside deep ravines full of verdant vegetation, gurgling streams and tea gardens.
Sightseeing
Government Botanical Garden (2 kms): This garden was laid out earlier by Marquis of Tweedale, the then governor of Madras in 1847. This garden covers an area of 22 acres. A fossil tree trunk of 20 million years is preserved here.
Lake View:
About one km distance, an artificial lake can be seen with a charming look, which was formed in 1824 by Mr. John Sullivan, the then Collector of Coimbatore. Tamil Nadu tourism Development Corporation provided the following facilities to the tourists.
Mini Garden:
Tourists can visit this mini garden which is on the way to the Boat House. The children amusement park is housed here. A snack bar is also available. It is maintained by T.T.D.C.
Doddabetta:
It is the highest peak (2623 meters) in the Nilgiris and is about 10 kms from Ooty. It lies at the junction of the Western & Eastern Ghats and offer beautiful vistas of the Nilgiri Hill ranges. It is surrounded by dense sholas. One can have a panoramic view of the landscape through the TTDC telescope.
The Mukkurthi Peak and National Park:
Mukkurthi Peak is about 40 kms form Ooty. The Mukkurthi National Park is located on the Southern corner of the Nilgiris Plateau. The area contains a viable population of Nilgiri Thar (Hamitragus hilocrius). The Kollaribetta and Nilgiris Peak are other major peaks around. The area is chained by innumerable beautiful and perennial little streams, which fall into Bhavani Puzha. The Silent Valley in the Western Ghat is located on the Western side of these ranges. A fascinating feature of the Mukkurthi Sanctuary is its endemism and relationship with Himalayan Flora and fauna.
Hindustan Photo Films:
The HPF, one of the major industrial units of the district is a public sector enterprise. This unit is located (about 5 km away from Ooty railway station) over a sprawling area of over 300 acres near the Ooty golf-links on the Ooty- Mysore road. The HPF was inaugurated by Mrs. Indra Gandhi, the then Prime Minister in January 1967.
Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary:
This Sanctuary lies at an elevation of 1140 mts in the junction point of Kerala, Karnataka and Tamilnadu and extends over and area of 321 sq. kms. A variety of habitats ranging from tropical ever green forest, moist teak forest, secondary grass lands and swamps are found. Panther, Sambar, spotted Deer, Barking Deer, Wild boar, Porcupine etc. are also seen. The avifauna is varied with Minivets. Hornbills, Fairy Blue Birds, Jungle Fowls etc.
The Pykara:
It is situated about 21 kms from Ooty, on the Ooty-Mysore Road. The tourist attraction is well protected by fenced sholas, Toda settlements, undisturbed grassy meadows and also a good wildlife habitat. The Pykara Dam, Pykara falls and the reservoir attracts many tourists. There is a forest rest house at Pykara. A Boat House with restaurant is available. It is maintained by TTDC.
Deer Park:
It is located at a distance of one km on Lake Road which has Sambar, Chital and Hares besides water birds.
How to reach there
The nearest airport to Ooty is Coimbatore at a distance of 100 km. This airport is well connected to Chennai, Mumbai and Bangalore. The Ooty railway station is only 2 km from the heart of the city and other railway station is about 46 km away at Mettupalayam, which is on the narrow gauge.
Hotel Sunshine
Package Cost per Person:
Room Category
Adult in Twin
Extra Adult
Child No Bed
Deluxe Room
Rs. 1,800
Rs. 1,015
Rs. 1,015
Nilgiri Suite
Rs. 2,365
Rs. 1,015
Rs. 1,015
Classic Suite
Rs. 3,150
Rs. 1,015
Rs. 1,015
Cost Includes:
* Accommodation for 02 nights / 03 days on twin / double sharing basis.
* Hotel taxes as applicable.
Cost Excludes:
* Air / Train fare.
* Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, tips, liquor, boating joy rides.
* Any other item not mentioned in "Inclusions".
* Government Service Tax @ 3.09% would be extra on the total billing.
Note:
* The above rates are subject to change without prior notice.
* The above rates are not valid during any festive period or long weekend.
* Above rates are not valid during Christmas and New Year. Peak season surcharge will be applicable as per the individual hotel policy.
Valid Till: 31st March 2010
Hotel Lake View
Package Cost per Person:
Room Category
Adult in Twin
Extra Adult
Child No Bed
Executive Suite
Rs. 1,700
Rs. 600
Rs. 600
Suite
Rs. 1,470
Rs. 600
Rs. 600
Deluxe Cottage
Rs. 1,350
Rs. 600
Rs. 600
Cost Includes:
* Accommodation for 02 nights / 03 days on twin / double sharing basis.
* Hotel taxes as applicable.
Cost Excludes:
* Air / Train fare.
* Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, tips, liquor, boating joy rides.
* Any other item not mentioned in "Inclusions".
* Government Service Tax @ 3.09% would be extra on the total billing.
Note:
* The above rates are subject to change without prior notice.
* The above rates are not valid during any festive period or long weekend.
* Above rates are not valid during Christmas and New Year. Peak season surcharge will be applicable as per the individual hotel policy.
Ex BANGALORE
