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Showing posts from 2012

Arch Gallery, Kanoh, Himachal Pradesh

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If you are fan of civil engineering then this place is a must visit for you. Kanoh is a small village which lies between Kandaghat and Kathleeghat on the toy train route between Kalka and Shimla. Not much happens at this sleepy village but is home a beautiful spectacle, an engineering feat and breath taking view. Also known as the Arch Gallery Bridge No. 493, is a series of arches built one on top of another and is the highest arch bridge of the Indian railways. There are only two ways to get here. One is to take the train to this station the other is to trek to this place. The village is not connected by roads and there are no places to stay near the village. If you wish to visit the place take a train to the place spend a couple of hours and catch the next train out. Alternatively you can trek to and from the station, or trek one way. It does require you to be very fit to trek the journey. Do make that a consideration before you set off on foot. View Larger Map

Naukuchia Taal

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If you ever have the urge to see mountain lakes in and around Delhi then Nainital would have definitely crossed your radar. Over the years it has become a favourite of many travellers. However, popularity comes with its own excess baggage. The city has, as some tourist put it, "has become very commercial". In fact recently the place clocked 10,000 vehicles  coming into the city in a day, most of which run on diesel. The air gets heavy with diesel fumes and takes charm of the city away. The same is true for Bhimtal. A trick is to avoid the rush is to visit during the off season . However, if you are in the mood to experience a laid-back sleepy town with beautiful lakes, simple food and great scenery perhaps you can direct your attention to Naukuchia Taal. It has a lot to offer and is reflective less crowded compared to the lakes in the vicinity. There is plenty of opportunity to go boating, kayaking and even do some hiking. Or if you are in the mood to just relax just hire

Mahabalipuram

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On the east coast of India situated about 60 KM from Chennai is the ancient city of Mahabalipuram . A UNESCO World Heritage Site this port city is home to many architectural gems. The city also know as Mamallapuram has its history dating back to the 3rd century CE perhaps even earlier. Though the city has all comforts of modern day living if one strolls down the lanes of the city and walks past some of the beautiful and well preserved buildings, one can, with a little imaginations be easily be transported to a time when the city was a thriving port city getting visitors from all over the world. There are many points of interests, the Pancha Rathas (Five chariots), Varaha Cave Temple, Thirukadalmallai temple, Arjuna's Penance, Shore Temple, Light House, Sculpture Museum and Tiger's Caves (located a stones throw away from the city). Most of the architecture is monolith and the deft details which can be seen in these sculptures and monuments is breath taking. What is even mo