India

Nubra Valley Travel Guide | Everything You Need To Know

May 3, 2020 by sarita

With its turquoise sky, rugged terrains and snow-capped mountain peaks, Nubra valley is one of the most stunning places in Ladakh. The valley is blessed with dramatic landscapes of soaring mountains, vast stretches of sand dunes and green valley beds with vibrant flowers.

Nubra Valley Travel Guide

What makes this sight even more pleasing is the smooth flow of the dual rivers of Nubra and Shyok curving through it. A haven for hikers and explorers, no wonder it is one of the top places to visit in Ladakh.

Nubra Valley Location

Standing at 3048 m above the sea level, Nubra lies around 155 km north of Leh. It is a high altitude cold desert with little vegetation. The valley is located at over 10,000 feet above sea level and Siachen Glacier lies to its north. From Leh, a thrilling drive via the Khardung La Pass takes you to Khalsar, from where the road forks into two- one leading towards the Shyok river and the other towards Nubra river. The Y-shaped valley lies at the intersection of these 2 rivers.

Nubra Valley Location map

Places to Visit in Nubra Valley

Along the Nubra River:

Panamik
Tiger
Surmur

Along the Shyok River

Hunder
Diskit
Turtuk

Places on the Route:

Khardung La Pass
Khalsar

How to Reach Nubra Valley from Leh

Nubra Valley from Leh

An ideal way to reach Nubra from Leh is to rent a car or and an SUV. If looking for more adventure, go for a heavy-duty bike like a Royal Enfield. Although the ride can get a little bumpy, given the condition of the road, what makes the journey truly remarkable is the sight of jaw-dropping views of rocky mountains, clear sky and deep valleys with every turn.

Time Required to Reach Nubra Valley from Leh

Nubra Valley By Car

It takes about 6 hours to get there from Leh. However, if the weather is bad or there is too much traffic, it can take anywhere between 8-10 hours.

Nubra Valley By Bike

Expect a further addition of 2 hours to your travel time if riding via a bike.

Preparation for Nubra Valley

1. Acclimatize Well

The air pressure and oxygen level drops significantly at the Khardung La Pass, so, it is highly recommended that you acclimatize for at least 2-3 days in Leh before heading towards Nubra Valley.

2. Prepare for Khardung La Pass

You must arrange for Khardungla pass beforehand. The passes can be purchased from Leh town. Be informed, that without the pass, you won’t be able to reach Nubra Valley. Considered as one of the highest motor-able passes in the world, Khardung La lies at 5,359 m and tests both your physical and mental strength. No wonder you feel exhilarated after crossing it. Khardung La holds historical importance as it falls on the silk route from Leh to Central Asia. While today it serves as an entryway to Shyok and Nubra valleys, in the past, tens of thousands of camels and horses used to cross it to facilitate trade.

3. Things to Carry before starting off the journey

Since it is going to be a long ride from Leh with hardly any shops on the way, it is best to carry the following:

A good stock of snacks and water.
Don’t forget to bring warm clothes and an additional blanket to avoid getting cold.
If riding by bike, make sure to carry a couple of gallons of petrol with you.

Nubra Valley Accommodation

Nubra Valley Accommodation

You can find a few budget as well as mid-range hotels alongside both Nubra and Shyok Rivers. There are also a few guesthouses or homestays at Diskit, Hunder and Surmur. Hunder also offers some camping options, right at the foothills of the mountains.

Nubra Valley Top Things to Do & Places to Visit

What makes the Nubra valley magical is not just the sight of majestic mountains but also fruits trees like walnuts, almonds and apricots. Although Nubra is known as the valley of flowers, there are a lot more things to do in Nubra than just admiring flowers. Take a look below:

1. Go for an ATV Ride at Khalsar

ATV Ride at Khalsar Nubra Valley

The adventure begins right at Khalsar, before you even reach the Nubra valley. The 15-minute ATV ride takes you on white sand dunes, right till the shore of the
Shyok river and offers panoramic views of the high mountains.
Price: Rs. 1200 per ride

Attractions Along Shyok River

A left turn from Khalsar takes you to these places:

2. Diskit Monastery at Diskit Village

Diskit Monastery Nubra Valley

Famous for its towering statue of Maitre Buddha, Diskit monastery is truly a wonder to visit. It lies in Diskit village which is also known as the ‘orchard of Ladakh’ given its fertile land and green valley beds. The road to the monastery is lined with colorful flags and once you reach, a short climb takes you to the top of the Gompa. The monastery is 350 years old and houses the magnificent 32 m tall statue of Buddha in an open courtyard from where you can also enjoy 360 degree views of the scenic Nubra valley.

3. Lachung Temple

Lachung Temple Nubra Valley

Situated just above the Diskit monastery, the Lachung temple is one of the oldest temples in the valley. The temple holds a huge statue of Tsong Khapa, who was the founder of the Gelugpa clan.

4. Go for a Camel Safari in Hunder

Camel Safari in Hunder Nubra Valley

Known for its captivating white desert, Hunder is one place that cannot be missed. It lies 8 km north of Diskit and offers an extraordinary landscape of sand-dunes and mountains in one frame. The village is home to the double-humped Bactrian camels and an ideal way to enjoy the day is to go for a camel safari. The owners take good care of the camels and opting for a ride is a good way to support the locals.
Price: Rs. 200

Attractions Along the Nubra River

Nubra Valley Attractions

And, in case you take a right turn (from Khalsar), you’ll head towards the northeast of Nubra valley, where you’ll find the villages of Sumur and Panamik. Make sure to visit the following places here:

5. Visit the Samstanling Monastery

Colorful prayer flags and clear blue sky will welcome you on the road to Samstanling Monastery. Located at Sumur, the monastery was established in the 18 th century. Boasting of beautiful architecture and walls with large murals, the monastery is definitely a must-visit place.

6. Halt at Zamskhang palace in Tiger village

The Royal palace of Zamskhang is the highlight of the small Tiger village. The palace belonged to the King of Nubra, in the 19 th century and is well preserved even till today.

7. Take a dip at the hot springs at Panamik Village

Panamik is the last accessible village of Nubra and is known for its hot sulfur springs. So, make sure you take a relaxing dip in the healing waters before heading forward. The village also serves as a base camp for Ensa Gompa and you might also spot a few pashmina goats here.

8. Yarab Tso Lake

Drive a few km ahead of Panamik to see the spectacular Yarab Tso Lake.

Days required to Explore Nubra Valley

To make the most out of your trip to Nubra Valley you must spend Minimum 3 days. Check out this 3 days Nubra Travel Itinerary.

Additional Tips & Information

Hunder Army Medical Camp

Hunder Army Medical Camp

We hope that you never have to visit this facility, but it is good to know that Hunder has an army medical camp where you can go if you feel any uneasiness. Also, make sure to carry layered clothing, a warm cap, gloves and sturdy yet comfortable shoes to make the most of your trip. You sure will remember Nubra valley all your life!

Rudra Cave – Kedarnath, is the New tourist Attraction in Uttarakhand | How to Book

September 19, 2019 by sarita

The famous “Rudra Cave” in Kedarnath, Uttarakhand, where PM Narendra Modi meditated in May 2019, is fast becoming a major tourist attraction in Uttarakhand.

Since the cave’s opening to the public for the first time in 2018, it is the first time that tourists have started booking in advance, said an official.

Rudra Cave - Kedarnath Booking in Uttarakhand — Rudra Cave – Kedarnath Bookings in Uttarakhand

About Rudra Cave

The cave located around 1 Kms from Kedarnath shrine in Uttarakhand is positioned facing the shrines of Badrinath and Kedarnath. The cave is natural made of stones with a wooden door at its entrance.The cave is maintained by Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam (GMVN)

How To Reach Rudra Cave

Rudra Cave can be easily reached from Kedarnath following a trek of around a kilometre.

Rudra Cave Kedarnath Uttarakhand — Rudra Cave – Kedarnath, Uttarakhand

Rudra Cave Bookings

The initial allotment of the meditation cave takes place for a minimum of three days.

Rudra Cave can be pre-booked online for INR 1500 for a night stay & INR 999 for day stays between 6 AM TO 6 PM.

Refunds are not provided once the booking has been confirmed.

Things to do inside Rudra Cave

Situated in a remote, isolated location, Rudra Cave in Kedarnath, is meant for Meditation purpose, allowing only 1 person to be inside the meditation cave at a time.

Facilities available

Although the meditation cave offers complete isolation, a phone has been installed inside the cave that can be used by the visitors in case of an emergency.

Apart from the emergency phone, the cave has an attached bell, which can be used to call an attendant available 24×7.

Food is provided throughout the day, including tea in the morning and evening as well as breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
The cave is also equipped with electricity, toilet, heater and drinking water.

Who can stay inside Rudra Cave ?

Those found physically sound and medically fit are allowed to stay inside the cave.

Visitors need to report at the GMVN Guptkashi office a few days prior to the scheduled booking date to undergo a complete medical check-up.

Thekkady Travel Guide | Everything You Need to Know

March 17, 2019 by sarita

If the spirit of wildlife adventure dictates your holiday destination, then you are on the right page! World Ghoomo is here to take you to one such travel destination in India that will satisfy your outdoor cravings. Whether you’re travelling with your partner or a group of friends, an adventure trip to Thekkady in kerala is all you need to plan for your next outing.

Thekkady – Periyar Tiger Reserve

Location – Located near to Kerala – Tamil Nadu border in the Idukki district of Kerala state in South India, Thekkady is the location of the Periyar Tiger Reserve which is one of the 27 tiger reserves in India. Spread across an area of 777 sq. km of forest land, the sanctuary is home to a luxuriant collection of different species of flora and fauna. Eco-tourism forms an integral part of the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary.

Thekkady Travel Itinerary – 4 days

In the first 3 days we will cover the activities inside the Wildlife Sanctuary and on the 4th day, cover some attractions outside the sanctuary.

Watch Thekkady Travel Guide Video

Additional Tips & Information

Find below some important things to keep in mind before planning your trip to Thekkady.

Booking Tips & Information

Advance Bookings for Hotels & Activities. It is mandatory to do all the bookings in advance to avoid last minute chaos.

1) Hotel Booking

There are 2 types of accommodation options available in Thekkady – KTDC hotels & Hotels outside the Sanctuary.

KTDC Hotels

There are 3 hotels inside the Periyar Tiger Reserve operated by Kerala Tourism Development Corporation (KTDC)
Periyar House – for a budget traveller who wish to stay in a wildlife sanctuary
Aranya Nivas – an authentic jungle lodge
Lake Palace – be a part of Royal Legacy
Located on the side of Periyar Lake these hotels are perfect destination for wildlife enthusiasts and eco-tourists.

Things to Consider Before Booking KTDC hotels

Advantages

Staying inside the sanctuary allows you to experience the wilderness 24X7.
The start point of most of the Activities like Wildlife Boat Cruises, Nature Walks & Hikings are inside the sanctuary itself. So, you won’t waste any time reaching the spot.
These hotels can also arrange vehicles for activities carried out outside the sanctuary.

Disadvantages

The gates of the Periyar Tiger Reserve close at 5:30 pm. Since, these hotels are located inside the wildlife sanctuary, you won’t be able to enter or exit the hotel after 5:30 pm.
You won’t be able to explore the nightlife of Thekkady.
Mudra Cultural Centre organises evening shows of Kalaripayattu (martial arts) & Kathakali (dance drama). So, if you are staying inside the sanctuary, you won’t be able to watch the shows.

Hotels Outside the Sanctuary

There are a number of guest houses and small hotels along the lane right outside the reserve forest gate. In addition, there are quite a number of Hotels, Resorts & Oyo rooms in Kumily.

Things to Consider Before Booking Hotels outside the sanctuary

Make sure to pick a hotel/room that is close to the Periyar Tiger Reserve. This will save a lot of time to reach the sanctuary for various activities.
KTDC hotels are expensive compared to the ones outside the sanctuary. So, if you are traveling on a tight budget, pick a hotel in Kumily.

Forest Entry Ticket

Forest Entry Ticket is Rs.40 per person.
You must retain the ticket as you are required to present it everytime you go for any activity inside the sanctuary.

Activity Bookings

Out of the many activities, some might be arranged by the hotel while others need to be booked by local tour operators. Ask your hotel to help you with the bookings or contact directly with the tour operators.
You are required to present the tickets before the activities begin.

Activities Inside the Sanctuary

Activities Periyar Tiger Reserve Thekkady

Wildlife Boat Cruises on the Periyar Lake
Bamboo Rafting & Hiking
Night Scout
Nature Walk
Border Hiking
Full Day Trekking Programmes such as Windy Walk, Cloud’s walk & Periyar Tiger Trail

Wildlife Boat Cruises on the Periyar Lake

The boat on the Periyar Lake ride will give you a glimpse of the wild life sanctuary along with some wildlife sightings along the shores of the lake.

No of Slots: 5
Boating Timings: 7.30 AM, 9.30 AM, 11.15 AM, 1.45 PM, 3.30 PM
Boating Charges: Rs. 500/- for Per Person (advance booking ) Rs. 225 for Per Person ( on-the-spot booking)
Start Point: Periyar Lake Boating Point
Duration: 1-2 hrs

Bamboo Rafting & Hiking

This eco-friendly, entertainment program for the nature-lovers is offered either as a full day or a half day programme. Not suitable for people with physical ailments, kids and pregnant women. Children below 12 years of age are not allowed.

Full-day Programme – Packed food and water is provided.

No of Slots: 1
Timings: 8 :00 am – 5:00 pm
Activity Charge: INR 2000/- per person
Start point: Nature Interpretation Centre opp Bamboo Grove Point )
Duration: 9 hours
Difficulty Level: Hard

Half-day Programme – Packed food and water is provided.

No of Slots: 2
Timings: 7:30 am – 12.30 pm & 9:30 am – 2.30 pm
Activity Charge: INR 2000/- per person
Start point: Nature Interpretation Centre opp Bamboo Grove Point )
Duration: 5 hours
Difficulty Level: Hard

Night Scout

A three hour night trekking provides a rare opportunity to observe nightlife inside Periyar Tiger Reserve.

No of Slots: 3
Timings: 7:30 PM, 10:30 PM, 1:30 AM
Activity Charge: Rs. 1200/- Per Person
Start point: Bamboo Grove Point
Duration: approx 3 hrs
Difficulty Level: Moderate

Nature Walk

The walk covers the moist deciduous forest and grasslands accompanied by a tribal guide. The forest trail interspersed with marshy grasslands offers great opportunity to watch birds, butterflies and other wildlife. Sambar deers,wild boar and Bisons can be seen grazing near the edges of the shoreline of the Periyar Lake.

No of Slots: 6 (Each group has a max of 6 persons + 1 guide )
Timings: 7:00 AM, 7:30 AM, 10:00 AM, 10:30 AM, 2:00 PM and 2:30 PM
Activity Charge: Rs 700/- Per Person
Start point: Boating area inside the reserve forest
Walking trail: 5 kms
Duration: 3 hrs
Difficulty Level: Moderate

Border Hiking

A full day trekking program conducted on the high terrains of the forests ranging to heights of 1000 to 1200 meters.

No of Slots: 1 (Two groups of six members each are allowed per day)
Timings: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Activity Charge: Rs. 2000/- Per Person
Start point: Bamboo Grove Point
Trekking Trail: 5 kms in which an altitude range of 900m to 1300m will be covered.
Duration: 9 Hrs
Difficulty Level: Hard

Activities Outside the Sanctuary

Off-Roading to Sathram
Elephant ride
Plantation Tour
Waterfall Visit
Tribal Tour
Bullock Cart Rides
Mountain Biking
Kerala tribal art & dance

4 Days Thekkady Travel Itinerary

Day 1 )
Arrival & Resort check-in followed by
Wildlife Boat Cruise on the Periyar Lake

Day 2)
Nature Walk &
Night Scout

Day 3)
Hiking & Bamboo Rafting

Day 4)
Off-roading to Sathram &
Plantation Tours in Kumily

Day 5) Optional – Gavi Wildlife Safari

Packing for Thekkady

Cotton t-shirts
Hiking pants
Comfortable trousers
Hiking Shoes
Floaters
Backpacks
Medications (if any)
Flashlight
Sunglasses
Hat
Hikings sticks

Estimated budget for this Itinerary

Approx INR 70K for 2 people.

Wayanad Travel Guide | How to Explore Wayanad in 2 Days

December 7, 2018 by sarita

Welcome to Wayanad, one of the most scenic hill stations of Kerala in South India. Known for its scenic landscapes, greenery, amazing waterfalls and wildlife, Wayanad makes for a perfect getaway destination for nature lovers. A trip to Kerala is incomplete without visiting this charming little hill station.

Wayanad Travel Guide

Hello everyone, It’s Sarita & Kamal. Welcome to Kerala Travel Series. In this Wayanad Travel Guide post/video we are gonna suggest you the best way to plan your trip to Wayanad and explore it within 2 days.

What’s Covered in this Wayanad Travel Guide

1. Wayanad Location

2. How to Explore Wayanad

Proper Planning

3. Best Season to Visit Wayanad

4. How to Reach Wayanad

Via Air
Via Rail
Via Road
Self-driven vehicle

5. Choosing an Accommodation

Kalpetta
Vythiri

6. Bookings

7. Days Required

8. Wayanad 2 Days Travel Itinerary

Wayanad – Day 1

Arrival & Check-in
Plantation estate stay experience
Plantation Walk
Sunset trek to Valiyapara in Vythiri

Wayanad – Day 2

Visit Banasura Sagar Dam
Trek to Meenmutti Waterfall
Plantation walk in Achoor Tea Estate & visit the Tea Museum
Lakkidi View Point

Wayanad – Day 3 (suggestive)

Pookode Lake, Edakkal Caves, Chembra Peak & Soochipara waterfall

9. How expensive is Wayanad ?

10. Things to Carry

11. Other nearby attractions that can be covered

WATCH THE VIDEO

1. Wayanad Location

Set high on the Western Ghats, Wayanad is a district in Kerala state with headquarters at the town of Kalpetta. Wayanad is a combination of 2 words ‘Vayal Nadu’ which means the “Land of Paddy Fields”.

2. How to Explore Wayanad

Wayanad is all about tea, coffee and spice plantations and is also popular for some of the most stunning waterfalls, lakes and wildlife which means there is a lot to see and explore here.

Proper Planning

One may end up spending most of the the time driving on the roads and miss out the beautiful attractions if proper planning is not done. It’s always good to do some prior research before heading out to Wayanad. Planning includes Best Season, Mode of Commute, Picking the right accommodation amongst various option, Bookings, Sorting out the attractions you wish to cover, packing appropriately and then head off.

3. Best Season to Visit Wayanad

Wayanad Kerala Travel guide

The best season to visit Wayand is from Oct-May. The weather is extremely pleasant making it the best time for sightseeing, trekking and wildlife tours.

During the rainy season which is from June-Sept, the landscape turns magical with lush greenery all around. Best time for nature lovers who enjoy greenery and rains.

4. How to Reach Wayanad

Wayanad can be reached via air, rail and road.

Wayanad Via Air

Nearest airport is Calicut International Airport ( 61 kms from Wayanad). From the airport, one needs to hire a cab to reach Wayanad via road.

Other Popular Routes

From Kochi To Wayanad – 260 Kms

From Bangalore to Wayanad – 282 kms

Wayanad Via Rail –

Kozhikode railway station (110 kilometers) is the nearest railway station to Wayanad

Wayanad Via Road – Bus

One can easily get regular buses to Wayanad from other major cities of the country.

Wayanad via Self-driven Vehicle

A self driven vehicle or hiring a cab is the most convenient option to reach Wayanad from Bangalore and Kochi. You can make as many number of stops to enjoy the scenic route.

5. Choosing an Accommodation

Wayanad Hotels resorts

Remember, most of the attractions in Wayanad are scattered and the distances are huge. It’s very important to figure out what all you wish to see and explore in Wayanad and then pick an accommodation keeping in mind the distances between them and the number of days you wish to spend in Wayanad.

There are broadly 2 regions in Wayanad where tourist prefer to book an accommodation – Kalpetta & Vythiri

Accommodations in Kalpetta

Kalpetta is the headquarters of Wayanad district. It is a bustling town surrounded by dense coffee and tea plantations and mountains.

Due to its central location within the district and its proximity to most visited tourist sites, Kalpetta is also the center of tourism activities in Wayanad . One can find a good number of hotels & resorts within and surrounding Kalpetta town.

Accommodations in Vythiri

Vythiri town is 700 meters above the sea level and the weather is remarkably cooler than other parts of Wayanad.

The all season attractive weather and abundant greenery makes Vythiri a major tourist destination in Wayanad. You will find a number of beautiful hotels and themed resorts that promise to offer a memorable stay within the tea estates.

6. Bookings

Once you have selected a hotel/resort, you can make bookings via various booking sites or book directly from the hotels website. You must book the rooms at least 15-20 days ahead. Because it is a popular tourist destination in Kerala, the most popular hotels/resorts get fill quite fast.

7. Days Required

You can easily cover most of the tourist attractions in Wayanad within 3 days.

In this video, we are gonna tell you places worth visiting in Wayanad within 2 days. The itinerary is based on our personal travel experience. You can add more days and attractions to this itinerary.

8. Wayanad 2 Days Travel Itinerary

Wayanad Travel Guide Itinerary

Wayanad – Day 1

Day 1 is all about arrival, resort check-in, relaxation, plantation walks and trekking.

Arrival & Resort Check-in

Wayanad Resorts Vythiri

Wayanad from Bangalore is approx 282 kms and takes around 6-7 hours via road. You can start as early as 4:00 am or even 6:00 am as per your convenience. We reached Wayanad at around 12:00 noon and soon checked-in to our villa.

Plantation Estate Stay Experience

Wayanad Resorts Vythiri Plantation stay

Staying inside a tea estate would be the best way to kick start your Wayanad vacation. It’s an experience like no other. Beginning from early morning to late night, the many pleasant sights and experiences such as the sight of the unending green meadows with mountains in the backdrop, fresh aroma of green tea leaves, unexpected mild showers, sounds of cicadas and various bird species and cool breeze make for a unique holiday experience for those looking for an ultimate relaxing getaway.

Go for a Plantation Walk

Wayanad Resorts Vythiri Plantation Walk

Besides enjoying the sights & sounds from the comfort of your room, you can also go for a plantation walk within the estates. Indulge into tea plucking experience and enjoy the stunning panoramic views of the never ending plantation.

Sunset trek to Valiyapara in Vythiri

Valiyapara in Vythiri

After the plantation walk, you can go for a mild trek to Valiyapara (Huge Rock) in Vythiri.

This viewpoint is comparatively less familiar which also means no crowd. A wonderful place for those who avoid crowd. The vantage point offers a spectacular 360 degree view of the town and the vast stretches of mountains covered in mist.

Wayanad – Day 2

Wake up to the sounds of chirping birds, and get greeted by early morning drizzles which is very common in Wayanad especially during the monsoons. Enjoy breakfast and head out to visit the Banasura Sagar Dam.

Banasura Sagar Dam

Wayanad Banasura Sagar Dam

Located 21 km from Kalpetta, the Banasura Sagar Dam is a very beautiful reservoir made of Tributary of the Kabini River. It is the largest earth dam in India and second largest in Asia which makes it one of the most visited tourist place in Wayanad.

Ticket Counter & Short Walk

After collecting tickets from the ticket counter, one needs to walk and climb quite a number of steps to reach the dam.

On reaching the top, one could see the water towards the left interspersed with some small islands that add a mystic feel to the place.

Other facilities – Washrooms, small canteen, horse riding, boating, fish spa and swings.

Trek to Meenmutti Waterfall

Meenmutti Waterfall Wayanad

Located just about 29 kilometers from Kalpetta, is Kerala’s second largest waterfall – The Meenmutti Waterfalls. Meenmutty is derived from malayalam words Meen (fish) and Mutty (blocked). It’s where fish gets blocked.

From the ticket counter, one needs to trek for about 2 kilometers on rough terrain inside the jungle. With a height of 300 metres, the water drops from nearly 1000 ft over three stages, presenting a three-tiered effect. Each of its three tiers requires a separate hike that can be combined with some rock climbing. There are ropes to support you. The waterfall is worth the hike.

Swimming

The water pours into small round pools and is quite clear. One may swim but before you place your foot into the water , it’s advised to carefully examine the floor underneath the stream. The moss built up makes the floor pretty slippery.

Plantation Walk in Achoor Tea Estate

Wayanad Plantation Achoor Tea Estate

Operated by Harrisons Malayalam Ltd, Achoor Tea Estate spreads across acres of thriving tea gardens making it one of the most beautiful places in Wayanad.

The sight of the unending green meadows with air intoxicated with the aroma of fresh green leaves, makes for a pleasant walk in the tea gardens.

After the walk one can also visit the Wayanad Tea Museum within the estate.

Lakkidi View Point

Wayanad Lakkidi View Point

Lakkidi is the gateway to the Wayanad at 700-800 meters above the sea level, when you approach from Kozhikode. The Lakkidi View Point is right on the highway and one needs to park their vehicle on the sides to get the views.

The vantage point offers stunning panoramic views of the serpentine Ghat road and the valley below usually covered in mist. Enjoy the enchanting views and make your way back to the resort.

Wayanad – Day 3 (suggestive)

If you have more days, you can add the following attractions to your itinerary

Wayanad Pookode Lake

Pookode Lake
Edakkal Caves
Chembra Peak &
Soochipara waterfall

9. How Expensive is Wayanad ?

The budget will largely depend on the number of days spent in Wayand, Mode of commute, the kind of accommodation you book and the number of attractions you wish to see.

Wayanad Tea Estate Resorts

A luxury villa in a plantation stay: can cost anywhere between Rs.8K -12K per night per room (double occupancy)

Budget Friendly Homestays – can cost anywhere between Rs. 3K – 5K per night per room

(double occupancy)
Food – Some hotels/resorts/homestays may have an all inclusive package while others may charge extra for every meal.

10. Things to Carry

Wayanad Kerala Holiday

Mornings and evenings are usually cold, so carry a sweater and a light jacket.
Carry a raincoat / umbrella if you are travelling during monsoons ( in addition to the warm clothes)
A binocular or a zoom in camera to watch / capture the birds.
A flashlight, mosquito repellants and basic first-aid.
A pair of sneakers or floaters with good sole grip.
A small backpack during tekkings.

11. Other nearby tourist destinations

Munnar, Alleppey, Kochi, Poovar, Thekkady

Wayanad Kerala

Wayanad Banasura Dam

Wayanad Coffee Plantation

Wayanad Drive

Wayanad Tea Estate

Wayanad Trekking

Wayanad Trekking Sites

Wayanad Best Waterfalls Meenmutti

Images: World Ghoomo, Shutterstock

Rajasthan – Bikaner Travel Guide | Things to Do

January 18, 2018 by sarita

Namastey from team India Ghoomo, It’s Sarita & Kamal. Welcome to Rajasthan series. In this video/ post we will mention the Top Tourist Attractions and Things to Do in Bikaner.

Bikaner Travel Guide – Rajasthan

Bikaner

Situated in the northern region of Rajasthan in India – Bikaner is one of the earlier established cities, founded by Rathore prince, Rao Bikaji, in 1488. Bikaner is known for some of the world’s best riding camels and is correctly nicknamed ‘camel country’.

The city boasts of imposing palaces, forts and temples constructed out carving red and yellow sand stones. The intricate carvings display some of the finest creations of the Rajputs.

Bikaner Main Attractions are

The Karni Mata Temple

The Junagarh Fort

National Research Centre on Camel

Research Centre on Equines

The Lalgarh Palace

The Ganga Golden Jubilee Museum &

Shree Laxmi Nath Temple

The Karni Mata Temple

Location

30 Kms from Bikaner, in the town of Deshnok

Visit Duration

1 to 2 hours

Timings

Temple opens at 4:00 am

Bikaner - Karni Mata Temple Bikaner – Karni Mata Temple

The Belief

The main deity in the temple is Goddess Karni Mata who is regarded as the incarnation of Maa Durga & The kabas are believed to be the manifestations of Karni Mata herself and her sons.

Karni Mata Temple in Bikaner, is the best place to visit if you want to observe fascinating religious customs and want to enjoy watching thousands of rats running around you and over your feet as you walk around in the temple and feel the presence of Karni Mata. Read more.

Rats at Karni Mata Temple in Bikaner Rajasthan

The Junagarh Fort

Location

Bikaner city

Visit Duration

1 to 2 hours

Timings

10:00 am – 4:30 pm

Fees

Entry fee & Camera fee

Guides

It’s recommended to hire a guide available for a fee.

Junagarh Fort – Bikaner Rajasthan

Main Attraction

Unlike other forts, the Junagarh fort is built in the plains of Bikaner and not on a hilltop. It’s one of the oldest forts with 7 fortified gates. The fort further has structures built within and includes a number of palaces, a couple of temples and huge pavilions – the walls made of marble and red sandstone and roof made of wood and glass.

These structures are preserved as museums providing insight into the luxurious lifestyle of the Rajput Kings.

Junagarh Fort in Bikaner Rajasthan

Junagarh Fort Bikaner Rajasthan

Bikaner Junagarh Fort

National Research Centre on Camel / Camel Breeding Farm

Location

8 kms from Bikaner city towards the Eastern side

Visit Duration

1 hour

Timings

2 PM – 6 PM

Entrance Fee

Rs.30 Per Person for Indians and Rs.100 Per Person for Foreign Tourists. Camera charges Rs. 50, and Camel rides Rs. 50 ( The prices are subject to change)

Guides

Available for a fee

National Research Centre on Camel Bikaner

Main Attraction

Camel interactions, camel safari & museum.

The National Research Centre on Camel also known as the Camel Breeding Farm was established in 1984 by the government, this place is popular among tourists who wish to learn more about Camels.

National Research Centre on Camel houses around 350 camels of 4 different species – The Bikaneri, The Jaisalmeri, The Mewar and Rann of Kutch.

National Research Centre on Camel Bikaner Rajasthan

Camel Species Identification & Usage

The Bikaneri Camel

These camels have distinct thick and long eyelashes. The Bikaneri camels are used in transportation.

The Jaisalmeri Camel

These camels are light brown in color and have short hair. The Jaisalmeri camels are fast runners and are used by BSF.

The Mewar Camel

These camels are white in color and have short hair. The Mewar Camels are known for producing milk.

Rann of Kutch Camel

These camels are short and dark in color. The Rann of Kutch camels are used for milk production.

Camel Average lifespan – 27 years

After enjoying a short Camel ride. Tourists can try Camel milk lassi, coffee, cream, and kulfi available at the milk parlour in the campus.

Camel breeding farm Bikaner Rajasthan

National Research Centre on Equines

Location

Adjacent to the Camel Research Centre

Timings

Evening: 2 PM – 6 PM

National Research Centre on Equines Bikaner

Main Attraction

Interaction with horses, museum & horse riding.

The National Research Centre on Equines that houses 6 different breeds of horses – namely the Marwari, Manipuri, Spiti, Kathiawari, Bhutia and Zanskari.

Horse riding can be done early morning. It will be a fun experience interacting with these horses and ponies at the farm. Make sure to visit the place if you have sufficient time.

National Research Centre on Equines Bikaner Rajasthan

Bikaner National Research Centre on Equines Rajasthan

National Research Centre on Equines Rajasthan Bikaner

National Research Centre on Equines in Rajasthan Bikaner

The Ganga Golden Jubilee Museum

Located near Lalgarh Palace, the Ganga Golden Jubilee Museum has collection of artifacts and objects from Royal Kingdom period.

Shri Laxmi Nath Temple

4 kms away from Junagarh Fort, Shri Laxmi Nath Temple is one of the oldest temples in Bikaner and is adobe to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi.

The Lalgarh Palace

Built in the beginning of the 19th century, The Lalgarh Palace displays the themes of modernity combined with the the historical times of the Rajput Maharajas. The palace today serves as a hotel.

Places to Eat in Bikaner

Around 3 kms from Junagarh Fort, at Panchshati circle is a decent restaurant named Ganapati Restaurant. Here, you can enjoy delicious meals at very reasonable rates.

Bikaner Cuisine

While in Bikaner, do try the local traditional Rajasthani Thali. It is an absolute delight to eat a little bit of everything from the best that a Rajasthani cuisine can offer.

Rajasthani Thali Cuisine

Shopping in Bikaner

Kote Gate, Station Road Market & Mahatma Gandhi road market, you can find a number of shops selling Bandhani sarees, dupattas, footwear, blankets, quilts and jewelry at a very reasonable price.

Shopping in Bikaner

Music, Dance & Festivals

The music of Bikaner is yet another amazing feature of the cultural heritage of the place.

The best way to enjoy the traditional dance & music is by booking an accommodation at a heritage hotel. These hotels organize evening cultural programmes which are included in the package.

Bikaner Music Dance Festivals

Bikaner Music

The Bikaner Camel Festival and Fair

It is one of the main festivals celebrated in the month of January. The main attraction of the festival is decorated camels on display, camel dances and camel races followed by folk dance and music.

Bikaner Camel Festival and Fair

So these were the Top Tourist Attractions in Bikaner that we could cover in 1 and half days.

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