Matera, Bari, Italy

Matera is popular for its old cave-houses turned into comfortable modern hotels, B&Bs and restaurants. Most tourists explore the famous sassi districts of Matera with its tumbling grey stone facades that are ancient caves - that help understand it's painful history as well as great example of unique atmosphere of the cave-dwellers.

Sassi di Matera, Bari, Italy

Many churches in Matera are cut into the rock of hillsides and ravines and its well worth your time to visit one or two of these atmospheric ancient places of worship.

The 'Sassi' is a unique landscape and along with other monuments and sections in Matera is a World Heritage Site recognized by UNESCO.

Seaside village of Polignano a Mare, Bari, Italy

Polignano a Mare is located in the province of Bari is an historic old town perched on limestone cliffs with panoramic terraces overlooking the azure adriatic sea. Polignano a Mare Is known to be one of the most vital ancient settlements in Puglia and is also well-known in the world for cliff diving.

Manarola, Cinque Terre, Italy

Manarola a tiny village on the Cinque Terre coastline that is characterized by its brightly and multi-colored houses resembling an artist’s palette is built on the edge of the cliffs overlooking the Ligurian sea. You must spare time to check the sweeping views of Manorala and other villages when you reach the Church of San Lorenzo, that is in itself stunning both in and out.

Devoid of traffic lights or cars Manarola is hands-down one of Europe’s most photogenic and picturesque villages.

You could opt to walk or ride a shuttle bus to get around Manarola and it is up to you to either spend a day enjoying the cheerful mediterranean colors that spring out of the cliffs, turquoise waters lapping at its shore. Or settle in for a few nights wandering down winding narrow streets, and hiking paths connecting the various fairytale villages offering apart from jaw dropping panoramic views also options to snorkel or kayak.

Isola di Loreto, Lago d-Iseo, Milan, Lombardy, Italy

The island of Loreto in Lombardy is located in Lake Iseo, north of Montisola, and is a private island. The property was bought by Vincenzo Richeri, captain of vessel in the Royal Navy in 1900. He built a neo - Gothic castle, a garden full of conifers, plus a marina as well as two light towers.

Night Skyline Procida, Naples Italy

You need to head to Procida (sitting halfway between between Ischia and Naples) described as an idyllic island if you are looking for forts, abbeys, picturesque harbor or smooth beaches and a place that is ideally explored on foot!

Pitigliano, Tuscany, Italy

Pitigliano with its quintessential rolling hills can be termed as a one of the most unusual and photogenic Tuscan towns with an extraordinary, steep fortress surrounding its commune and Etruscan tombs that are connected by a maze of caves and tunnels which are used to store local wine.

What to see in Pitigliano, would include a 16th century synagogue, Pitigliano Cathedral and the Medici Aqueduct with its Fountain of Seven Taps.

Portofino a humble fishing village, Genoa, Italy

Though described as a humble fishing village – Portofino with its distinctive half moon harbor on the Italian Riviera is anything but that. One of the most stunning way to reach Portofino is to take a ferry ride. Alternatively a boat ride along its coastline takes you around the treacherous inlets and beaches like Paraggi, Camogli and Lavagna.

To enjoy stunning visuals of Portofino trek up to Church San Giorgio - combining the same with an alfresco lunch may make your visit more memorable.

You can add exploring of the 15th century Castello Brown to your Portofino trip - as it is known for its luscious gardens and magnificent views too.

Stunning Portofino, Genoa, Italy

Though described as a humble fishing village – Portofino with its distinctive half moon harbor on the Italian Riviera is anything but that. One of the most stunning way to reach Portofino is to take a ferry ride. Alternatively a boat ride along its coastline takes you around the treacherous inlets and beaches like Paraggi, Camogli and Lavagna.

To enjoy stunning visuals of Portofino trek up to Church San Giorgio - combining the same with an alfresco lunch may make your visit more memorable.

You can add exploring of the 15th century Castello Brown to your Portofino trip - as it is known for its luscious gardens and magnificent views too.

Polignano a Mare, Bari, Italy

Polignano a Mare is located in the province of Bari is an historic old town perched on limestone cliffs with panoramic terraces overlooking the azure adriatic sea. Polignano a Mare Is known to be one of the most vital ancient settlements in Puglia and is also well-known in the world for cliff diving.

Pietrapertosa, Bari, Italy

Pietrapertosa is literally carved into the bare rock on the side of the mountain at an elevation of 3,500 feet above sea level. Pietrapertosa delivers on its promise of dramatic and picturesque views and engages you with its many ancient ruins especially the 9th century Saracen castle.

Thrill seekers may enjoy trying the highest zip-line in the world as it delivers an unbeatable aerial view of the entire town and dramatic landscape..

Gubbio Piazza Grande, Umbria, Italy

Charming Gubbio is perfect to explore on foot - strolling down it's cobblestone streets lined with sober and imposing medieval and gothic buildings actually takes us centuries back.

You will be stumped by Gubbio's stunning preservation of its monuments as you wander through its evocative alleys and stairs that evoke textbook Italian dreaming. You most probably would say that Gubbio’s cathedral and the Basilica of St Ubaldo are impressive!



How to reach Gubbio, Umbria? 

The nearest train station to Gubbio is Fossato di Vico. Buses connect Gubbio with the station as it is about 12 miles away. You could also take a bus from Perugia which is about 50 kms away from Gubbio. Gubbio is at a distance of about 124 miles from Rome Fiumicino airport.

Medieval Ostuni, Bari, Italy

Ostuni’s medieval walled city was built without a plan as its history is peppered with invaders, Greeks, Romans, Lombards, Saracens, Byzantines or Normans and many more - leaving behind monuments and ruins to explore. Ostuni is also a fabulous base to explore many charming Puglia towns like Alberobello and Cisternino.

Maze of alleyways in Ostuni, Bari, Italy

Turning from the sapphire hued Adriatic Sea and wandering around the White City as Ostuni is often described would lead you through a maze of alleyways and arches leading to white washed houses constructed as tumbling clusters - pretty sight with their bold blue and green wooden doors.

Monte Isola, Milan, Lombardy, Italy

The town of Monte Isola is a green mountain that sits right in the center of Lake Iseo impressing you with its tranquility and its ancient appeal. To get there, you’ll need to drive an hour and a half from Milan, then take a 20-minute ferry ride across the lake from the town of Iseo, but it’s well worth the effort. The sleepy quaint town has many excellent trattorias and lakeside cafés, and the beautiful Madonna della Ceriola chapel built in the 1500s.

Whilst walking to the top of the island or the Madonna della Ceriola Sanctuary do stop and explore the ancient hamlets where the ancient rural traditions still remain intact - such as artistic churches surrounded by small squares or homes made in white and local stone;

Gubbio Ancient Theatre, Umbria, Italy

Charming Gubbio is the perfect to explore on foot to reach cobblestone streets lined with sober and imposing medieval and gothic buildings. You will be stumped by Gubbio's stunning preservation as you wander through its evocative alleys and stairs that evoke textbook Italian dreaming. You could say that Gubbio’s cathedral and the Basilica of St Ubaldo are impressive!



How to reach Gubbio, Umbria? 

The nearest train station to Gubbio is Fossato di Vico. Buses connect Gubbio with the station as it is about 12 miles away. You could also take a bus from Perugia which is about 50 kms away from Gubbio. Gubbio is at a distance of about 124 miles from Rome Fiumicino airport.

Maiori, Amalfi Coast, Italy

With a shrouded mystical history Maiori is well known today as it has the longest beach on the Amalfi Coast and much of it has been rebuilt and restored as medieval Maiori was washed away in the floods.

Worth your time in Maiori are the Sanctuary of Santa Maria delle Grazie that dates back to year 596 and the church of Santa Maria a Mare built in 12th century that hosts a wooden sculpture of the Madonna with Child of the 15th century.

Alternatively you may want to take a boat ride from Mamori to explore the spectacular sea cave called the Grotta di Pandora.

The Grotto Pandora is embellished with fairy outline of stalactites and stalagmites that make a spectacular statement around the emerald waves.

Note - a day trip to Capri from Maiori is possible during summertime as ferry services work only during the summer.

Minori, Amalfi Coast, Italy

Looks for a scruffier and a genuine short break from Ravello - than head to Minori just 50-60 minutes steep walk from Ravello. With its atmospheric pedestrian shopping streets and noisy traffic jams did you know that Minori as per archaeological findings was the oldest inhabited site on Amalfi Coast? Minori does have spectacular ruins especially the Villa Marittima Romana, one of the most important Roman archaeological sites on the Amalfi coast. Minori has been a pasta powerhouse since centuries and its restaurants are popular haunts on Amalfi Coast itineraries.

La Maddalena, Sardinia

La Maddalena is far cry from its violent past and intriguing history – today it’s a popular town with many legends and ancient fortresses and its beautiful beaches surrounded by a rocky terrain.

What not to miss in La Maddalena: La Maddalena is best experienced as a local so you need just relax and soak in the calm at the Piazza Umberto I erstwhile known as the Piazza Rossa that is surrounded by ancient buildings, cafes, bars and restaurants. Cala Francese and Bassa Trinita are popular beaches for both locals and tourists during weekends and in summers. With just a handful of sights La Maddalena is best explored by foot as all the talked about attractions are within easy reach of each other and located in the main town of La Maddalena.

How to reach La Maddalena?
The only way to reach La Maddalena is by boat or ferry that depart from many locations the nearest being Palau. Try to figure out the rush hours and avoid them for a unflustered or tranquil ride.

Vertical hikes and Positano, Amalfi Coast, Italy

Positano with its pastel-colored houses that literally tumble down steep is a vertical town and hence means strenuous hike/s and you need to also be prepared for a lot of steps.

Roam-antique Positano, Amalfi Coast, Italy

Romantic Positano been delivers picture postcards views since centuries - on all fronts be it the framed blue waters and cliffs that plunge into the sea or the the jaw-dropping sunsets that perfectly blend with its pastel colored houses that actually seem to spill down the mountain.

Picturesque Positano, Amalfi Coast, Italy

Does Positano really look exactly like it does in its picturesque photographs? Short answer is a vehement yes! Positano has a metamorphic effect on people inspiring millions to travel to check out this jewel of the Amalfi Coast in person.

Shoppers actually just traipse-in from any location across the Amalfi coast to just browse though it's pastel-colored cascade of chic boutiques

Charming Positano, Amalfi Coast, Italy

Positano with its rustic charm and expensive wisteria-draped accommodations is a boat ride away from Capri, Ischia and the Grotta dello Smeraldo.

Procida, Naples Italy

You need to head to Procida (sitting halfway between between Ischia and Naples) described as an idyllic island if you are looking for forts, abbeys, picturesque harbor or smooth beaches and a place that is ideally explored on foot!

Ravello, Campania, Italy

Ravello with its jaw-dropping Mediterranean views is an enticing haunt that has captivated millions through centuries. Apart from its monuments from the medieval period and its noble atmosphere Ravello is well known for its opulent villas - the Villa Cimbrone, Villa Rufolo or the Villa La Rondinaia.

Salo, Lake Garda, Italy

Salo, a quaint town on the banks of Lake Garda has one of the longest promenades that makes it the perfect break to submerge in its natural wonder or spend many afternoons or evenings enjoying aperitifs at the many lakeside cafés.

Riomaggiore, Cinque Terre, Italy

Riomaggiore is the first village and the largest on your Cinque Terre quest. You may hear the bell towers chiming away when you are walking around the very tiny harbor, colorful short buildings. If you are not the hiking type than settle downing cafe or a bar found on Riomaggiore main street.

San Gimignano, Tuscany, Italy

San Gimignano really doles out Tuscan charm as it is surrounded by rolling hills, vineyards, olive groves, and cypress trees. Recognized as a world heritage site by UNESCO San Gimignano is well known for its walled village’s and fifteen medieval towers fame. Most visitors agree whilst walking around its enchanting narrow streets that it feels like one has stepped back into time.

Saluzzo, Piedmont, Italy

Saluzzo backed by the snow-capped Cottian Alps is a sleepy postcard perfect town in Piedmont with medieval gems like La Castiglia, a 14th century castle, and the Casa Cavassa, a Renaissance palazzo turned into a museum that showcases spectacular gold-leaf paintings and frescoes. It just takes about an hour to drive from Turin to Saluzzo.

Paestum Ancient Greek Temples, Naples, Italy (4)

Painting by Jules Coignet (1798–1860) - dated 1860 - Paestum Temple in Morning Light. 

Paestum a short train ride away from Salerno or Naples is the erstwhile Greek city of Poseidonia. Its ancient temples of Poseidon, Hera, and Athena are amongst the few best preserved monuments

What not to miss in Paestum? - Foremost, what will stop you in your tracks in absolute awe is - The Temple of Hera II also known as the Temple of Neptune, one of ancient Greek temples in Italy dating its origin to 450 BC; Temple of Athena that is dedicated to the goddess of war, wisdom, and heroism in 500 BC - later used as a church. Plus the Temple of Hera I also dubbed as the Basilica of Hera; Do explore the incredibly well-preserved ancient tomb paintings that have been painted back in 470 B.C; and the ancient roman amphitheater at Paestum;

Image from Le antichita di Pozzuoli, Baja, e Cuma, by Filippo Morghen (1730 - 1807), published in Napoli, 1769 housed in Houghton Library, Harvard University.

Paestum a short train ride away from Salerno or Naples is the erstwhile Greek city of Poseidonia. Its ancient temples of Poseidon, Hera, and Athena are amongst the few best preserved monuments

What not to miss in Paestum? - Foremost, what will stop you in your tracks in absolute awe is - The Temple of Hera II also known as the Temple of Neptune, one of ancient Greek temples in Italy dating its origin to 450 BC; Temple of Athena that is dedicated to the goddess of war, wisdom, and heroism in 500 BC - later used as a church. Plus the Temple of Hera I also dubbed as the Basilica of Hera; Do explore the incredibly well-preserved ancient tomb paintings that have been painted back in 470 B.C; and the ancient roman amphitheater at Paestum;

Paestum Ancient Greek Temples, Naples, Italy (2)

Image from a book named - Italy from the Alps to Mount Etna - dated 1877+ by multiple authors - Publisher Chapman and Hall, London - Contributed by University of Illinois Urbana.

Paestum a short train ride away from Salerno or Naples is the erstwhile Greek city of Poseidonia. Its ancient temples of Poseidon, Hera, and Athena are amongst the few best preserved monuments

What not to miss in Paestum? - Foremost, what will stop you in your tracks in absolute awe is - The Temple of Hera II also known as the Temple of Neptune, one of ancient Greek temples in Italy dating its origin to 450 BC; Temple of Athena that is dedicated to the goddess of war, wisdom, and heroism in 500 BC - later used as a church. Plus the Temple of Hera I also dubbed as the Basilica of Hera; Do explore the incredibly well-preserved ancient tomb paintings that have been painted back in 470 B.C; and the ancient roman amphitheater at Paestum;

Paestum Ancient Greek Temples, Naples, Italy (1)

Painting by Isidro González Velázquez -dated 1837 - View of the magnificent ruins of the ancient city of Pesto, housed in Royal Academy of Fine Arts of San Fernando.

Paestum a short train ride away from Salerno or Naples is the erstwhile Greek city of Poseidonia. Its ancient temples of Poseidon, Hera, and Athena are amongst the few best preserved monuments

What not to miss in Paestum? - Foremost, what will stop you in your tracks in absolute awe is - The Temple of Hera II also known as the Temple of Neptune, one of ancient Greek temples in Italy dating its origin to 450 BC; Temple of Athena that is dedicated to the goddess of war, wisdom, and heroism in 500 BC - later used as a church. Plus the Temple of Hera I also dubbed as the Basilica of Hera; Do explore the incredibly well-preserved ancient tomb paintings that have been painted back in 470 B.C; and the ancient roman amphitheater at Paestum;

Mood swings of Faroe Islands, Denmark

Faroe Islands means dramatic steep slopes with a unique architectural heritage quietly preserved and incredibly cherished by the locals. You are expected to roam around as the locals do via hiking or ferries in all kinds of weather. Its easy to fly in to the Faroe Islands from Reykjavik (Iceland), Edinburgh (Scotland), Bergen (Norway) and Copenhagen (Denmark).

Geographically, The Faroe Islands are group of 18 major islands off the coast of Northern Europe, between the Norwegian Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, about halfway between Iceland and Norway.

Edge of its world Mykines Village, Faroe Islands

Someday will be hiking from the ancient Mykines village with its turf-roofed houses to the lighthouse at the end of the the islet of Mykineshólmur. Mykines rich in birds is pretty and secluded with its rolling hills and precipitous cliffs and hundreds of puffins.

Hagley Park, Christchurch, New Zealand

Hagley Park is enjoyed by the locals as well as visitors - it is renowned for its extensive area of 165 hectares or 407 acres, its wide-open green spaces and mature woodlands. Joggers make the most of the tree-lined avenues year-round.

Doesn't matter which season you prefer Hagley Park is a great place to stroll, whether on a misty autumn morning, or a warm spring day when the cherry trees lining are in flower.

Piopio, New Zealand

Piopio is a small town or village in New Zealand that became famous as it was a featured in the The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey.

Piopio with its brusque and picturesque landscapes sits between the famous Waitomo Caves and rugged Taranaki Coast.Its dramatic limestone formations, inspire many to take forest walks and cycling routes around it.

Note - should try some locally-made berry ice cream at the Piopio orchard.

Red sky of Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand

Much of the Aoraki / Mount Cook Mackenzie region is a part of the Dark Sky Reserve - an area reserved for stargazing and mesmerizing views of the cosmos.

To explore the wonders of the night sky, you many consider joining a stargazing tour - or head to one of the observatories - Tekapo's Mount John Observatory as you will have access to professional telescopes and passionate guides that add to your stargazing experience.

The Wanaka Tree, Wanaka, New Zealand

With the South Island's stunning Southern Alps as a backdrop this 'lone tree of Lake Wanaka' is supposedly the most photographed of all trees in all New Zealand.

Nugget Point Lighthouse, Ahuriri Flat, New Zealand

Nugget Point Lighthouse is located at Nugget Point in the Otago region of the South Island of New Zealand.

Built in 1869-70 - the lighthouse originally was powered by an oil burner replaced by an electric one and then an LED beacon - that has been fully automated since 1989.

A simple walking track from the car park leads to a viewing platform right next to the lighthouse overlooking 'The Nuggets. Note the lighthouse itself is fenced off.

Red silhouettes of Queenstown, New Zealand

Although colorful sunrises and sunsets can be seen anywhere, New Zealand its especially famous for its twilight hues... the blurred silhouettes of mountain ranges against a beautiful sunset at Queenstown...

Franz Josef Glacier, New Zealand

Franz Josef Glacier is about 5 km from Franz Josef village - yes they have the same name - you could either hike up to the glacier or opt for a guided ice walk - or opt for comfortable aerial views via air-safaris. Other options would be to explore the nearby rainforests, waterfalls, and lakes.

There are Glacier Hot Pools available in the village as well as Wildlife Centre. Many choose to kayak at the Lake Mapourika or rent a stand-up paddle-board.

Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand

Aoraki Mount Cook National Park encompasses 23 peaks that are over 3000 metres high, and the longest glaciers. It is usually described as alpine in its purest form - with soaring peaks almost like snow skyscrapers, glaciers and permanent snow fields, all set under a dramatic star-studded sky.

And it is still very accessible - the Mount Cook Village which is located besides the scenic Lake Pukaki is the perfect base for all types of alpine activities.

What else to expect at Aoraki Mount Cook National Park? Surreal milky lakes as the glacier's ground rock sediment makes the water opaque - Encounters with cheeky kea or the mountain parrots - Stargazing at Aoraki Mount Cook National Park is magnificent and is acclaimed to be once in a life tine experience.

Auckland Skyline, New Zealand

Auckland is a large vibrant city - activities that one should really try would include - sunset kayaking from the shores of Auckland to Rangitoto Island, the largest volcano in the city - or Sunrise at Mt Eden (it is Auckland’s highest natural vantage point) or check the city lights from the Sky Tower up high from its observation decks yup there are 3 three of them - or pick a beautiful spot and look up 'go stargazing' - Auckland has many options to stargaze...

The Wanaka Willow, Wanaka, New Zealand

A willow tree semi-submerged has been massively popular thanks to social media - the easiest way to reach 'the lone tree of Lake Wanaka' > it is located right at the foothills of Mount Aspiring National Park, a World Heritage Site, which is has even more breathtaking landscapes.

Shotover River, Otago, Queenstown, New Zealand

The Shotover River is located near Queenstown - it is a 75 km long river that is fast flowing, with numerous rapids.

Thrilling white water rafting trips and high performance jet boat rides - gets adrenaline-fueled riders to explore the Skippers Canyon that is made up of squeezed narrow rock walls that are steeply carved over thousands of years by billions of tonnes of fast flowing river water from the heart of the Southern Alps.

Ancient Nugget Point Lighthouse, Ahuriri Flat, New Zealand

Nugget Point is an iconic panoramic platform with one of New Zealnd’s oldest lighthouses perched above the famous rocks named by Captain Cook because they looked like pieces of gold. (Source: newzealand.com)

A short stroll away the viewing platform near the old lighthouse delivers sensational views of the big blue thrashing waves. The area is home to some of the rarest penguins plus you could catch seals, sea lions or spoonbills. Many come in hope to catch dolphins in their upward spin. Needless to say the best scenes are created for you either early morning or at sunset.

Untamed Hamnoy - a fishing village in Norway

When you look at any picture of Hamnoy, Lofoten Islands, Norway most often they would depict an absolute contrast - the warmth of red and yellow fisherman cottages against stark cold and tenuous mountains. Hamnøy or Hamnøya is a small fishing village in Norway located at about 1.5 km distance from the village of Reine, along the Vestfjorden, one of the Lofoten islands.

Aching feet are fast forgotten when you reach the top - this Preikestolen Forsand Norway

All google will show you if you were to search are results of hiking / trekking Preikestolen or Prekestolen (the Pulpit Rock) in Forsand Norway. Its a The mountain plateau most likely to be shaped by ice not even centuries but thousands of years ago. If you must hike note that the hiking season is between April and October and you will be rewarded with stunning views of Lysefjord. How to reach Preikestolen? 

Kleine Scheidegg, Switzerland

Kleine Scheidegg is the starting point for many scenic hikes with stunning views of the ice massifs of the Eiger Glacier and the famous triple peaks of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau.

Kleine Scheidegg can be reached via Interlaken - and most people start their trip to the Jungfraujoch in Interlaken - but note you can board the train at any station along the way.

If boarding the train from Interlaken - it is smart to opt going via Interlaken >> Lauterbrunnen >> Wengen >> Kleine Scheidegg and for the DESCENT opt for a different route - Kleine Scheidegg >> Grindelwald >> Interlaken - to enjoy both the stunning alpine areas.

Or go the reverse - From Interlaken which is uniquely situated between two lakes, take a train to Grindelwald - and from Grindelwald take a spectacular ride on the cogwheel train to Kleine Scheidegg that is based directly at the foot of Eiger North Face. And for the DESCENT come down via Wengen to Lauterbrunnen to Interlaken.

Iseltwald, Switzerland

Iseltwald is am ancient fishing village on the southern shore of Lake Brienz - a perfect place to experience the interplay of the reflected mountains enchanted by the turquoise waters of Lake Brienz

The entire village of Iseltwald is designated as part of the Swiss Heritage Sites - only locals are allowed to drive-in to the village or guests in the local guest-houses.

Iseltwald is easy reach by boat as it is a popular stop on Lake Brienz cruise between Interlaken and Brienz.

Montreux, Switzerland

Montreux is a wealthy Swiss town with an olde-worlde charm. Located on the banks of Lac Léman (Lake Geneva) facing the majestic Dents-du-Midi mountains - millions have made most of the scenery by strolling the pedestrian walkway along the lakeside.

How to reach Montreux by train?
Take a train from Lausanne to Montreux - a breathtaking hour as you pass the UNESCO listed Lavaux stretch - or the steeply terraced vineyards as the train races towards the blue waters bound by the mountains of the Chablais Alps.

Melchsee-Frutt, Kerns, Switzerland

Melchsee-Frutt is a mountain resort village in Switzerland surrounded by mountains and lakes. It is known for alpine skiing, snowboarding, sledding, hiking, rock climbing, fishing...

How to reach Melchsee-Frutt? Check this article for directions.
https://swissfamilyfun.com/melchsee-frutt-mountain-resort/

St Moritz, Crap da Sass Castle, Switzerland

Before you head to Crap da Sass castle - described as neo-romantic castle on the bank of Lake Silvaplana - do note that the castle is privately owned and is not open to the public.

It was was built in 1906 by the German General Graf von der Lippe and is an important historical monument in Graubünden.

An impressive mountain panorama frames the lake landscape as all be it hikers or skiers or snowboarders enjoy Silvaplana’s local mountain.

Iseltwald Castle, Switzerland

Iseltwald is easy reach by boat as it is a popular stop on Lake Brienz cruise between Interlaken and Brienz.

The small castle of Iseltwald is located on the tip of its peninsula which has now been turned into a Rehabilitation center.

Glarus, Switzerland

Austerely beautiful surrounded by Glarus Alps - it is tough to believe that the graceful town of Glarus was almost destroyed by a fire and the one you are visiting has been built in the 19th century.

To wander around Glarus you may opt for trails just west of Glarus - Klöntal an almost untouched valley - or Klöntaler See a glimmering green-blue lake backed by the Glärnisch mountains - or go in search of majestic waterfalls that open up clefts in the Glärnisch massif.

How to reach Glarus by train?
It takes about 80 minutes to travel from Zurich Hb to Glarus by train, and there are many trains available through the day.

Morcote, Lake Lugano, Switzerland

Morcote village undoubtedly the most photographed is located on the shore of Lake Lugano.

The breath taking views - slices of the village centre unfold as you row towards Morcote... As described by many Morcote does promise winding, cobbled laneways housing monuments that have mediaeval origins.

Château de Chillon, Montreux, Switzerland

The famous Château de Chillon, a fascinating 13th century castle and fortress located on a island in the Lac Léman (Lake Geneva) is a short bus ride away from Montreux.

Lake Wildsee, St. Gallen, Switzerland

The Schottensee and the Wildsee lakes are the most eclectic especially with the eminent peaks reflecting in their green-blue shimmering waters. Their colors seem surreal in most pictures - a lot depends when you are traveling and the incidence of light, as the colors dramatically change.

The Wildsee is located in the territory of Mels in the canton of St. Gallen.

To experience the famous 5 lake hike including Wildsee read this blog post - https://swissfamilyfun.com/pizol-5-lake-trail/

Interlaken Cruise, Switzerland

Whether you opt for a boat trip to Lake Thun or Lake Brienz each is unique to be enjoyed at an unhurried pace.

Cruising on the deep blue Lake Thun offers views of green meadows, forests, nostalgic castles, against the backdrop of the eternal peaks of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau and beyond.

Opt for the colourful sunset trips over Lake Then that run daily from May to October from from Interlaken West station at 6:10 p.m. and arrives in Thun two hours later. Do re-check the timings from a local travel booking company

Opt for a passenger ferry on Lake Brienz that will take you past cosy villages, roaring waterfalls and scintillating mountain-scapes.

Once you have arrived in Brienz opt to explore old part of the village, you will discover the picturesque chalet village with its typical wooden houses - surrounded by lush meadows, forests, glades all rounded off by glorious jagged mountainsides.

Rhine Falls, Neuhausen am Rheinfall, Switzerland

Neuhausen am Rheinfall is close to the thunderous Rhine Falls in the canton of Schaffhausen in Switzerland.

Supposedly the natural spectacle is best framed from the Laufen Castle a medieval castle perched on a rocky spur high above the largest waterfall in Europe.

How to reach Rhine Falls?
There are two options take a train to Rhine Falls from either the 'Neuhausen Rheinfall Station' or 'Schloss Laufen am Rheinfall Station' - note they are on either side of the river and both the stations are located right next to the falls. Typically takes about 50+ minutes to get there by train from Zurich.

Murren, Lauterbrunnen, Interlaken, Switzerland

Located at the base of the Schilthorn mountain, this small cozy and a car-free village is on a must visit list of many who would like to explore quaint villages of Europe.

How to reach Mürren?
Mürren is car-free village and can be reached by train and cableway only.

From Lauterbrunnen, you can take the cableway to Grütschalp and then change to the narrow gauge train to Mürren BLM.

Once you are in Mürren, you can take a cable car up to the Schilthorn. Alternatively take the funicular to Allmendhubel, gawk at the mighty Alps be it Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau, or just go explore few hiking trails.

How to reach Lauterbrunnen by train?
You can reach Lauterbrunnen by train from Wengen or Interlaken - or any other town and city of Switzerland from there.

Mount Pilatus, Alpnachstad, Lucerne, Switzerland

High above Lake Lucerne with stars close enough to touch, and plenty of fresh mountain air – you could experience fairy-tale evenings around mountain Pilatus...

How to reach Mount Pilatus by train?
Mount Pilatus and the valley station in Alpnachstad lie in the heart of Switzerland and are very well connected. Luzern to Alpnachstad is less than 30 minutes train journey. A more slower and scenic way to travel from Lucerne to Alpnachstad is by ferry.

Morteratsch Glacier, Pontresina, Switzerland

The Morteratsch Glacier is the largest glacier by area in the Bernina Range of the Bundner Alps in Switzerland.

Morteratsch can be reached by train and by car from Pontresina and the Bernina Pass.

The Bernina Express either begins or your scenic train ride ends in Tirano, Italy depending on which way you hop on the express train.

Tirano is just a few kilometers from the Swiss border - the Bernina Express climbs into the Alps, passing mirror-like lakes, quaint villages, snow-covered mountains, and glaciers on its two-hour journey to St. Moritz, Switzerland.

It seems the Bernina line (1910) was conceived to help more tourists explore the Engadine Valley, and that Alpine region includes St. Moritz, Pontresina, the Morteratsch glacier, and the Bernina Pass, the 2,253 meter-passage (7,392 feet) between the towering mountain peaks.

Oberhofen Castle, Switzerland

Magical Oberhofen castle - having survived more than eight centuries as it was built around 1200 - has a colorful history of ownership. Purchased by the New Prussian family of Counts de Pourtalès in 1844 it was converted into a summer residence and the castle received its current appearance.

The Schlosspark Oberhofen has a museum and offers exhibitions and tours - including the Castle Park tour, Ghost stories in Oberhofen castle, the cold tour in the winter castle...

Oberhofen Castle, Oberhofen village, Interlaken, Switzerland

How to reach Oberhofen Castle?
Can be easily reached from Thun and Interlaken - once you reach the Oberhofen village you will need to than take a boat to Oberhofen, Ländte next to the Castle.

Do check the official website for details - https://www.schlossoberhofen.ch/de/information/besucherinfos

Rapperswil-Hurden, Wooden Bridge, Switzerland

Holzbrücke Rapperswil-Hurden is a wooden pedestrian bridge between the city of Rapperswil and the village of Hurden crossing the upper Lake Zürich (Obersee) in Switzerland - and if you do reach the same - you would be walking in the footsteps of pilgrims.

In the Middle Ages, the pilgrims of St. James used this wooden footbridge with loosely laid planks to cross lake Zurich - also visiting Rapperswil on their way to Santiago de Compostela.

Scenic St Moritz, Engadin, Switzerland

Wondering how often will you reach for your camera if you are actually in St Moritz be it the alpine greens, dark forests, moody reflective lakes and streams or brooding peaks...

Saint Moritz is a high Alpine resort town in the Engadine in Switzerland and its popularity is more to do with its scenic location and that it enjoys about 300+ days of sunshine.

Engadin region with its pristine nature is a place to explore to be inspired if you are in search for tranquility. At the same time it spikes up your adrenaline as it is virtual haven for any one seeking adventure sports.

St Gallen, Switzerland

St. Gallen, traditionally evolved from the hermitage of Saint Gall, founded in the 7th century - now is largely famous across Europe as a university town - home of the University of St. Gallen, one of the best business schools in Europe.

Steckborn, Lake Constance, Switzerland

Steckborn is located on the south-western arm of Lake Constance known in German as the Untersee.

The Abbey of Saint John, Mustair, Switzerland

The Abbey of Saint John at Müstair, Switzerland, is UNESCO designated World Heritage Site. It's an early medieval Benedictine monastery dating to the late 8th century CE that became an abbey in 1163 CE which is renowned for its beautiful, intact medieval design and decor of Carolingian figurative murals, Romanesque frescoes, and ancient stuccoes.

Weisshorn, Randa, Zermatt, Switzerland

There are 38 mountains around Zermatt, which are higher than 4000 m. Many that of these 4000 -metre peaks can be climbed from Randa, including the Dom and Weisshorn.

The Weisshorn in German means white peak or white mountain is part of the Pennine Alps and is located between the valleys of Anniviers and Zermatt in the canton of Valais, Switzerland.

Hiking from Wengen to the Kleine Scheidegg, Switzerland

Take a train from Lauterbrunnen to Wengen - than from Wengen hop on to a gondola ride to Maennlichen -  than walk along the Panaroma Trail - where you walk parallel to Eiger's Nordwand, Moench, Jungfrau ending in Kleine Scheidegg. Its graded as an easy walk that is supposedly simple for both young and seniors alike.

The section between Maennlichen Gondola Station and Kleine Scheidegg has the most stunning views in the region.

From Kleine Scheidegg take a train to either Wengen or Lauterbrunnen or to Grindelwald.

You could opt to walk down from Kleine Schiedegg to Wengen - relatively a descent, with some steeper sections toward the end and that walk - is graded as moderate walk.

Zermatt, Sunrise from Sunnegga, Switzerland

The Sunnegga area is found on the Rothorn mountain, above the town of Zermatt and it seems it delivers the best views of the Matterhorn especially at sunrise. You get to see how the imposing peak of Matterhorn stretches up to meet the sun set amongst its alpine pastures.

Lake Arnen, Switzerland

Lake Arnen framed by the wild woods is a blissfully secluded spot and an idyllic option for hikes and picnics. Lake Arnen is within easy reach by car from Gstaad.

Which is the nearest airport to Gstaad?
Geneva is the nearest airport from Gstaad and is at a distance of about 149 km.

How to get to Gstaad by train?
Geneva to Gstaad by train takes about 3 hours. You will need to take a train to Montreux from Geneva and then switch trains for Gstaad.

Zurich to Gstaad by train - you will need to take an international train connections to Spiez - and there change trains for Zweisimmen - and switch a train for Gstaad.

Lac de Moiry, Grimentz, Switzerland

Lac de Moiry an emerald-tinted lake is the starting point for many hikes exploring the wild and dramatic views of the sparkling Moiry glacier.

Klontalersee, Klontal, Glarus, Switzerland

Klontalersee is a natural lake surrounded by mountains located in Glarus - it is popular destination for picnics or experiencing forested trails edging the lake.

Takes about 75-80 minutes to reach Klontal, Rhodannenberg from Zurich. There are buses available to take you to Klontalersee - sounds like a 20 minute ride - do review information on the same at https://www.kloental.com/de/gut-zu-wissen/anreise-mit-dem-oeffentlichen-verkehr-oev.html

Good Read - https://swissfamilyfun.com/klontalersee-lake-hike/

Lavaux Vineyards, Lake Geneva, Switzerland

Lavaux is a UNESCO recognized world heritage site with hectares of terraced vineyards stretching for about 30 km located right on the shores of Lake Léman.

Lavaux can be reached via many train journeys starting from Lausanne, Pully, Vevey, or Montreux.

There are hourly regional train starting from Vevey station to Puidoux-Chexbres - offering an unusual train ride across the terraced vineyards of the Lavaux. From Chexbres-Village station there are many footpaths through the magnificent, steep terraces offering an oppotunity to explore on foot. Other train options are Lavaux Panoramic or Lavaux Express.

Lake Cadagno, Quinto, Piora valley, Ticino, Switzerland

Lake Cadagno is a meromictic lake in the Piora valley, Switzerland near Lago di Ritom.

Check these articles to explore the region - http://www.familyearthtrek.com/2018/02/19/a-child-friendly-hike-to-the-three-mountain-lakes-ritom-tom-and-cadagno-switzerland/

https://www.myswitzerland.com/en-in/experiences/summer-autumn/summervacations/stories/the-mysterious-lago-cadagno/

Lake Brienz, Interlaken, Switzerland

There is plenty to explore around the many shades of turquoise waters of Lake Brienz - gaze around the imposing mountainscapes or hop off from your boat ride to discover the many picture-book villages surrounding it.

You will find the main boat docks just outside the rail station of Brienz, as well as the rail station of Interlaken Ost.

Matterhorn, Zermatt, Switzerland

The majestic Matterhorn looms over the breathtaking Alpine panorama straddling the border between Switzerland and Italy. It's north side faces Zermatt valley.

How to reach the the car free Zermatt Valley by train?
You could catch a direct train to Zermatt from either Zurich or Geneva airports - it runs every hour.

You could take a train from Zurich city or Geneva city to 'Visp' - from there you need to change to the mountain train that takes your directly to car-free-Zermatt. Its a scenic, journey as the train passes through lakes, vineyards and mountains.

Lotschenlucke pass, Switzerland

The Lötschenlücke is a high mountain pass of the Bernese Alps, connecting the Lötschental to the valley of the Aletsch Glacier in the canton of Valais. (Source Wikipedia)

It is surrounded by 3,000 meter high mountains, including the Bietschhorn, the Hockenhorn, the Wilerhorn and the Petersgrat.

The Jungfrau-Aletsch Protected Area is the most glaciated area in the Swiss Alps, and was declared a Natural World Heritage Site by decision of UNESCO, along with southern and eastern parts of the Lötschental.

Lauterbrunnen, Interlaken, Switzerland

Want to see 72 spectacular waterfalls than you need to head for Lauterbrunnen - seems the Swiss village has literally jumped out of a story book as it is tucked away in lush green valley that is abound with both wild flowers and jagged snow covered cliffs - a mystical land that you need to see for yourself to experience the word 'breathtaking' has Swiss connotations.

How to reach Lauterbrunnen by train?
Easy answer is reach Interlaken and from there take a short train ride (about 20 minutes) to Lauterbrunnen. You could opt to reach Lauterbrunnen by taking train from Wengen.

The Great Egret at Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary, Karnataka India

The Great Egret also referred to as Great White Egret or Great White Heron is a large heron with white plumage.

Great Egret can be distinguished from other white egrets by its yellow bill and black legs and feet - do note that the bill gets darker and the lower legs lighter in the breeding season.

The Great Egret feeds in drier habitats or prefer shallow water eating predominantly fish, frogs, small mammals, and at times small reptiles and insects. Their long sharp bill effectively works as a spear and are incredibly still or motionless allowing the prey to come much closer or within striking distance.

How to reach Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary, Karnataka, India?

How to reach Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary, Karnataka, India?

Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary is an island located near the Mandagadde village in Shimoga town Karnataka India.

How to reach Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary by air? Which is the nearest airport to Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary?
The nearest airport to Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary is Mangalore Airport that is at a distance of about 160 km from Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary.

How to reach Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary by train? Which is the nearest railway station to Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary?
The nearest railway station to Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary is Shimoga Station that is at a distance of about 32 km from Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary.

Best time to visit Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary is the peak season in the month of August as thousands of birds visit the sanctuary.

Sabarmati Ashram, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India

Sabarmati Ashram is national monumnet - also known as Satyagraha Ashram as this is the base from where Gandhiji led the Dandi march or his Salt Satyagraha on 12 March 1930. Sabarmati Ashram is at distance of about 7.5 km from Ahmedabad Airport.

As per wikipedia - The Sabarmati ashram is located between a prison and a crematorium, and Gandhiji believed that a satyagrahi lands up in either of those places.

Gandhiji enlightening words furhter corroborated his belief, 'This is the right place for our activities to carry on the search for truth and develop fearlessness, for on one side are the iron bolts of the foreigners, and on the other the thunderbolts of Mother Nature.'

on my way... Glenburn Tea Estate, Darjeeling, India

kuch hai junoon sa - kuch pagalpan hai - sau baatein karta yeh buddhu sa man hai... it's a miracle to fly off wherever and whenever u want... one more off my bucket list Glenburn Tea Estate... yes dancing away all the way to the airport... treks around ribbons of swirling tea estates yup kinda that swirling a darjeeling cuppa + walking towards a downstream river i have been warned it's treacherous + catching the majestic Kanchenjunga in the front row seat or vanilla reading (ambitious got 7 new books ) next few days it seems it's me and my red shoes traipsing n mulling with those butterflies that Glenburn promises

Picture: Preeti at Kandaghat, Himachal Pradesh, India

that cuppa! - on my way to Glenburn Tea Estate, Darjeeling, India

what stumps me always wherever I travel every cuppa has a story...how cool is it to experience a temperature drop (16) in just a few hours from bombay's 32 in January...  looking over Teesta river with my first Glenburn Darjeeling tea (no milk) and it was awesome (first time knowing how much I like my masala chai this was an hatke experience)... Offcourse the tea estate also sent a herbsncheese sandwich as well as walnut brownie kinda adds to yr moments and all I requested bhupenjee (driver) to do - it was supposedly a stop over for nukkad ka chai... His response: in 40 mins we will stop at a view point for yeah! A high tea - kya bolu... 

early morning trek to catch the elusive kanchenjunga from myriad perspectives, Darjeeling, Glenburn Tea Estate

took the tea pluckers narrow route walk a curvaceous slippery path and surprisingly lush green (as this part of India suffered with almost no rains)... Glenburn is a large estate so meandering across panaromic views is a given formed by rows n rows of tea bushes (almost seem like soldiers) n backdrop u turn around at every curve to check if u can still see the kanchenjunga (I m told I m lucky as it was hidden in the mist for the last few days) is relatively easy n was surprised that the almost 100 mins disappeared too fast... Can u see the faint line of Kanchenjunga behind me? 😎

Where: Glenburn Tea Estate, Darjeeling, Near Bagdogra, West Bengal, India. Travel Date: January 2018

traipsing around in acres of Tea Estates of Glenburn, Darjeeling, India

morning dew settles well on spectacular view of the tea estate against pale shadows of hills curtained behind the gray mist... look so appealing u never want to leave... walked away passing many villages threading our way down with temps dropping stoically...wondering what is it that drives me through such wilderness again and again

capturing the reading corner, Glenburn Tea Estate, Darjeeling, India

bk in my reading corner... It's almost 7pm n there's a resounding silence on the estate... (today it's rose white darjeeling tea) day started early and there is no more beautiful a sight than dawn struggling to life...(banned phone till evening) clear blue sky n harmless white puffs of floating clouds can only mean a clear view of kanchenjunga... Can stare at them standing bold and unique for hours... I guess when i start relating to such sights it's kinda my world of superlatives but they do their job of being incredible everyday... accomplished an 8 kms downhill trek to rangeet river took about 170 minutes reward was barbequed veggies with three salads n fast flowing rapids kinda playing their own hypnotic tunes... n we were still on Glenburn Tea estate...

Getaways from Naukuchiatal, Uttarakhand

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Nainital, Uttarakhand
The distance between Naukuchiatal and Nainital is about 26 km.

Mukteshwar, Uttarakhand
The distance between Naukuchiatal and Mukteshwar is about 41 km.

Almora, Uttarakhand
The distance between Naukuchiatal and Almora is about 67 km.

Binsar, Uttarakhand
The distance between Naukuchiatal and Binsar is about 90 km.

Delhi, Uttarakhand
The distance between Naukuchiatal and Delhi is about 314 km.

How do I reach Naukuchiatal by air? Which is the nearest airport to Naukuchiatal?
The nearest Airport to Naukuchiatal is Pantnagar Airport.
The distance from Pantnagar Airport to Naukuchiatal is about 60 km.

How do I reach Naukuchiatal by train? Which is the nearest railway station to Naukuchiatal?
The nearest railway station to Naukuchiatal is Kathgodam Railway Station.
The distance from Kathgodam Railway Station to Naukuchiatal is about 25 km.

Getaways from Pragpur, Himachal Pradesh

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Dharamsala, Himachal Pradesh
The distance between Pragpur and Dharamsala is about 62 km.

Mcleodganj, Himachal Pradesh
The distance between Pragpur and Mcleodganj is about 66 km.

Palampur, Himachal Pradesh
The distance between Pragpur and Palampur is about 77 km.

Nalagarh, Himachal Pradesh
The distance between Pragpur and Nalagarh is about 124 km.

Dalhousie, Himachal Pradesh
The distance between Pragpur and Dalhousie is about 134 km.

Amritsar, Punjab
The distance between Pragpur and Amritsar is about 140 km.

Chandigarh
The distance between Pragpur and Chandigarh is about 175 km.

Delhi
The distance between Pragpur and Delhi is about 408 km.

How do I reach Pragpur by air? Which is the nearest airport to Pragpur?
The nearest Airport to Pragpur is Gaggal Airport at Kangra.
The distance from Gaggal Airport to Pragpur is about 90 km.

How do I reach Pragpur by train? Which is the nearest railway station to Pragpur?
The nearest railway station to Pragpur is Una Railway Station.
The distance from Una Railway Station to Pragpur is about 57 km.

Getaways from Shimla, Himachal Pradesh

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Kufri, Himachal Pradesh
The distance between Shimla and Kufri is 15 km.

Chail, Himachal Pradesh
The distance between Shimla and Chail is about 46 km.

Kasauli, Himachal Pradesh
The distance between Shimla and Kasauli is about 72 km.

Nalagarh, Himachal Pradesh
The distance between Shimla and Nalagarh is about 97 km.

Morni Hills, Haryana
The distance between Shimla and Morni Hills is about 122 km

Delhi
The distance between Shimla and Delhi is about 344 km.

How do I reach Shimla by air? Which is the nearest airport to Shimla?
Shimla Jubbarhatti Airport is 24 km away from Shimla city.
Shimla Airport is connected with Delhi city which has an International Airport.

You could also reach Shimla via Chandigarh International Airport.
The distance from Chandigarh International Airport to Shimla is about 124 km.

How do I reach Shimla by train? Which is the nearest railway station to Shimla?
The nearest railway station to Shimla is Shimla Railway Station which is meter guage railway station. The nearest broad gauge railway station to Shimla is Kalka Railway Station.
The distance from Kalka Railway Station to Shimla is about 87 km.
Kalka Railway station is connected to Delhi, Kolkatta, Mumbai and many cities in India.

Getaways from Srinagar

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Dachigam National Park, Jammu and Kashmir
Distance between Srinagar and Dachigam National Park is about 23 km.

Pulwama, Jammu and Kashmir
Distance between Srinagar and Pulwama is about 31 km.

Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir
Distance between Srinagar and Gulmarg is about 50 km.

Anantnag, Jammu and Kashmir
Distance between Srinagar and Anantnag is about 59 km.

Sonamarg, Jammu and Kashmir
Distance between Srinagar and Sonamarg is about 80 km.

Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir
Distance between Srinagar and Pahalgam is about 91 km.

Patnitop, Jammu and Kashmir
Distance between Srinagar and Patnitop is about 187 km.

Kargil, Ladakh
Distance between Srinagar and Kargil is about 203 km.

Doda, Jammu and Kashmir
Distance between Srinagar and Doda is about 230 km.

Vaishno Devi, Jammu and Kashmir
The distance between Srinagar and Vaishno Devi is about 257 km.

Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir
The distance between Srinagar and Jammu is about 266 km

Zanskar, Ladakh
The distance between Srinagar and Zanskar is about 447 km.

How do I reach Srinagar by air? Which is the nearest airport to Srinagar?
Srinagar has a domestic airport and is at a distance of about 12 km from Sringar city.
Srinagar Airport is connected Delhi, Mumbai, Chandigarh and Shimla Airports by regular flights.
The nearest International Airport to Srinagar is Delhi Airport.
The distance between Delhi Airport and Srinagar is 876 km

How do I reach Srinagar by train? Which is the nearest railway station to Srinagar?
The nearest railway station to Srinagar is Jammu Railway Station.
The distance from Jammu Railway Station to Srinagar is about 272 km.

Getaways from Mussoorie

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Dehradun, Uttarakhand
The distance between Mussoorie and Dehradun is about 34 km.

Dhanaulti, Uttarakhand
The distance between Mussoorie and Dhanaulti is about 59 km.

Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
The distance between Mussoorie and Rishikesh is about 80 km.

Haridwar, Uttarakhand
The distance between Mussoorie and Haridwar is about 84 km.

Rajaji National Park, Uttarakhand
The distance between Mussoorie and Rajaji National Park is about 92 km.

Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand
The distance between Mussoorie and Uttarkashi is about 117 km.

Devprayag, Uttarakhand
The distance between Mussoorie and Devprayag is about 145 km.

Lansdowne, Uttarakhand
The distance between Mussoorie and Lansdowne is about 189 km.

Harsil, Uttarakhand
The distance between Mussoorie and Harsil is about 193 km.

Chandigarh
The distance between Mussoorie and Chandigarh is about 202 km.

Delhi
The distance between Mussoorie and Delhi is about 292 km.

How do I reach Mussoorie by air? Which is the nearest airport to Mussoorie?
The nearest Airport to Mussoorie is Dehradun Airport.
The distance from Dehradun Airport to Mussoorie is about 60 km.

How do I reach Mussoorie by train? Which is the nearest railway station to Mussoorie?
The nearest railway station to Mussoorie is Dehradun Railway Station.
The distance from Dehradun Railway Station to Mussoorie is about 35 km.

Getaways from Lansdowne

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Pauri, Uttarakhand
The distance between Lansdowne and Pauri is about 83 km.

Haridwar, Uttarakhand
The distance between Lansdowne and Haridwar is about 106 km.

Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
The distance between Lansdowne and Rishikesh is about 126 km.

Dehradun, Uttarakhand
The distance between Lansdowne and Dehradun is about 158 km.

Mussoorie, Uttarakhand
The distance between Lansdowne and Mussoorie is about 189 km.

Ranikhet, Uttarakhand
The distance between Lansdowne and Ranikhet is about 214 km.

Delhi
The distance between Lansdowne and Delhi is about 262 km.

Chandigarh
The distance between Lansdowne and Chandigarh is about 309 km.

How do I reach Lansdowne by air? Which is the nearest airport to Lansdowne?
The nearest Airport to Lansdowne is Dehradun Airport.
The distance between Dehradun Airport and Lansdowne is 143 km.

How do I reach Lansdowne by train? Which is the nearest railway station to Lansdowne?
The nearest railway station to Lansdowne is Kotdwar Railway Station.
The distance from Kotdwar Station to Lansdowne is about 40 km.

Getaways from Kanchipuram

Kanchipuram city in Tamil Nadu, India is a golden city of a thousand temples and is also considered as one of the Seven Sacred Cities of India.

Best time to visit Kanchipuram would be in the cooler months from November to February.

Add destinations to your Kanchipuram itinerary

Thiruthani, Tamil Nadu
The distance between Kanchipuram and Thiruthani is about 47 km.

Chennai, Tamil Nadu
The distance between Kanchipuram and Chennai is about 77 km.

Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu
The distance between Kanchipuram and Mahabalipuram is about 69 km.

Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh
The distance between Kanchipuram and Tirupati is about 113 km.

Thiruvannamalai Thiruvannamalai
The distance between Kanchipuram and Thiruvannamalai is about 116 km.

Pondicherry
The distance between Kanchipuram and Pondicherry is 119 km.

Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu
The distance between Kanchipuram and Chidambaram is about 182 km

Tiruchirapalli, Tamil Nadu
The distance between Kanchipuram and Tiruchirapalli is about 281 km.

Bangalore, Karnataka
The distance between Kanchipuram and Bangalore is about 282 km.

Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu
The distance between Kanchipuram and Thanjavur is about 295 km.

How do I reach Kanchipuram by air? Which is the nearest airport to Kanchipuram?
The distance from Chennai International Airport to Kanchipuram is about 65 km.

How do I reach Kanchipuram by train? Which is the nearest railway station to Kanchipuram?
Kanchipuram railway station is connected to Chennai, Pondicherry, Nagercoil and Madurai.

Getaways from Kedarnath, , Uttarakhand

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Gangotri, Uttarakhand
The distance between Kedarnath and Gangotri is about 32 km.

Valley of Flowers, Uttarakhand
The distance between Kedarnath and Valley of Flowers is about 50* km.
*Interesting read on why you cannot combine traveling to Kedarnath and Valley of flowers in the same trip - do read article at https://valleyofflowers.info/can-i-combine-kedarnath-with-valley-of-flowers-tour/
Note - multiple answers available on credible travel websites - in such a case it is important to check with your local travel agency.

Pauri, Uttarakhand
The distance between Kedarnath and Pauri is about 71 km.

Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
The distance between Kedarnath and Rishikesh is about 105 km.

Lansdowne, Uttarakhand
The distance between Kedarnath and Lansdowne is about 106 km.

Dehradun, Uttarakhand
The distance between Kedarnath and Dehradun is about 109 km.

Auli, Uttarakhand
The distance between Kedarnath and Auli is about 128 km.

Chandigarh
The distance between Kedarnath and Chandigarh is about 443 km - do check this with a local travel agency as there are many credible sources stating that the distance is about 219 km.

How do I reach Kedarnath by air? Which is the nearest airport to Kedarnath?
The nearest Airport to Kedarnath is Dehradun Airport.
The distance from Dehradun Airport to Kedarnath is about 103 km.

How do I reach Kedarnath by train? Which is the nearest railway station to Kedarnath?
The nearest railway station to Kedarnath is Rishikesh Railway Station.
The distance from Rishikesh Railway Station to Kedarnath is about 102 km.
Rishikesh Railway station is connected to many cities in India.

Getaways from Kodaikanal

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Palani, Tamil Nadu
The distance between Kodaikanal and Palani is about 66 km.

Theni, Tamil Nadu
The distance between Kodaikanal and Theni is about 86 km.

Dindigul, Tamil Nadu
The distance between Kodaikanal and Dindigul is about 95 km.

Sabrimala, Kerala
The distance between Kodaikanal and Sabrimala is about 100 km.

Madurai, Tamil Nadu
The distance between Kodaikanal and Madurai is 116 km.

Munnar, Kerala
The distance between Kodaikanal and Munnar is about 167 km.

Sivakasi, Tamil Nadu
The distance between Kodaikanal and Sivakasi is about 179 km.

Valparai, Tamil Nadu
The distance between Kodaikanal and Valparai is about 182 km.

Karaikudi, Tamil Nadu
The distance between Kodaikanal and Karaikudi is about 192 km.

Srirangam, Tamil Nadu
The distance between Kodaikanal and Srirangam is about 204 km.

Coonoor, Tamil Nadu
The distance between Kodaikanal and Coonoor is about 235 km.

Ooty, Tamil Nadu
The distance between Kodaikanal and Ooty is about 252 km.

Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu
The distance between Kodaikanal and Thanjavur is about 253 km.

Kumarokom, Kerala
The distance between Kodaikanal and Kumarokom is about 272 km.

Bandipur Tiger Reserve, Tamil Nadu
The distance between Kodaikanal and Bandipur Tiger Reserve is about 292 km.

Mudumalai National Park, Tamil Nadu
The distance between Kodaikanal and Mudumalai National Park is about 292 km.

Yeracaud, Tamil Nadu
The distance between Kodaikanal and Yeracaud is about 292 km.

Ambasamudram, Tamil Nadu
The distance between Kodaikanal and Ambasamudram is about 298 km.

Kochi, Kerala
The distance between Kodaikanal and Kochi is about 302 km.

Bangalore, Karnataka
The distance between Kodaikanal and Bangalore is 465 km.

Chennai, Tamil Nadu
The distance between Kodaikanal and Chennai is 526 km.

How do I reach Kodaikanal by air? Which is the nearest airport to Kodaikanal?
The nearest Airport to Kodaikanal is Madurai Airport
The distance from Madurai Airport to Kodaikanal is about 135 km.
Coimbatore Airport is also near Kodaikanal.
The distance from Coimbatore Airport to Kodaikanal is about 174 km.

How do I reach Kodaikanal by train? Which is the nearest railway station to Kodaikanal?
The nearest railway station to Kodaikanal is Kodai Road Railway Station.
The distance from Kodai Road Railway Station to Kodaikanal is about 80 km.

Best time to visit Machu Picchu, Peru

Its kinda tough to accept that Machu Picchu rising up from a mountain forest to almost 8,000 feet above sea level was actually forgotten almost till 20th century.

Best time to visit Machu Picchu, Peru is from May to October though a dry season its not uncommon to expect heavy mists that can obscure the views.

Nearest International Airport to Machu Picchu is Cusco. You can come in even via Lima as there are buses, trains and flights available.

Best time to visit Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia

I would opt any of these months - April, May, September, October as weather is good and has lesser crowds. Be prepared to have the most stunning and longest day of your life so do reach early morning.

Nearest International Airport to Plitvice Lakes National Park is Franjo Tuđman Airport or Zagreb Airport.

Best time to visit Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto is most definitely Old Japan and is often described by its ancient temples, tea ceremonies, traditional ryokan inns and centuries-old craftsmanship.

Best time to visit Kyoto is either in the fall that is October or November or in spring and that would be in the months of March, April or May.

Nearest International Airport to Kyoto would be Osaka International Airport at a distance of about 47 kms

Best time to visit Abu Simbel, Egypt

Impressive Abu Simbel’s claims to fame are its two enormous temples that were rescued from Lake Nasser’s rising waters and that was one hell of a technological feat. 

Best time to visit Abu Simbel, Egypt is from October to April though note December and January is peak tourist season.

Abu Simbel Airport is well connected to Cairo Airport.

Best time to visit Cinque Terre, Italy

With its own intrinsic historical character I can vouch for Cinque Terre being the the most beautiful historical place in the world.

Best time to visit Cinque Terre, Italy depends - if its hikes you are seeking than do so from mid-March to mid-October. Christmas in Cinque Terre is special for its biggest Presepe in the world.

Nearest International Airport to Cinque Terre, Italy is Leonardo da Vinci International (Fiumicino) Airport.

Best time to visit Hamnoy in Norway

Hamnoy is one of the oldest and picturesque fishing village in Lofoten, Norway.

Best time to visit Hamnoy is up to you as you can vist Hamnoy all year round as there are no extreme changes in temperature exception being the Polar nights in the winter.

Best time to visit Great Wall of China

The Great Wall is timeless charm to tourists where every season delivers its own individual scene. Opt for either March to June or autumn months of September, October and early November.

Nearest International Airport to Great Wall, China is Beijing Capital International Airport

Best time to visit Parthenon, Acropolis, Athens, Greece

The best times to visit Athens are between March and May and from September to November. The smart way to visit the Parthenon in Athens is to land just two hours prior to closing time to avoid crowds.

Nearest International Airport to Acropolis is Athens International Airport or Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport.

Best time to visit Petra, Jordan

National Geographic describes Petra as the 'Lost City' that has secrets to reveal.

Best time to visit Petra would be in spring from March to May or Autumn from September to November.

Nearest International Airport to Petra, Jordan is Queen Alia International Airport at Amman.

Best time to visit Vatican City

Known as the world’s smallest country Vatican City is a treasure trove for countless pieces of prized art across centuries.

Best time to visit Vatican City, Italy would be non peak season means cold weather and last week of November to early December + mid January to February

Nearest International Airport to Vatican City is Leonardo da Vinci International (Fiumicino) Airport.

Best time to visit Pyramids of Giza, Egypt

Did you know that the ancient engineering feats at Giza were so impressive that even today scientists can't be sure how the pyramids were built.?

Opt for any time from October to April as that is when temperatures are pleasant. December + January is hen iconic sights like the Pyramids of Giza, the Temples of Luxor are definitely crowded.

Nearest international airport to Pyramids of Giza would be Cairo International airport at a distance of about 25 kms.

Best time to visit the Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef covering 00's of islands stretches so far that one can see it from outer space.

Best time to visit Great Barrier Reef, Australia is from June to October as rainfall is rare thus offering clear waters for diving expeditions.

Nearest International Airport to Great Barrier Reef, Australia is Cairns International. 

Getaways from Agra

Agra is a must visit destination in India offering historical and architectural sites. Visit the world famous Taj Mahal one of the seven wonders of the world a structural beauty with fascinating historical anecdotes.

You may also visit Fatehpur Sikri, Jama Masjid, Moti Masjid, Maryam-uzzamani Palace or Buland Darwaza.

The best time to visit the city of Agra is when it is cooler, between October to March.

Add destinations to your Agra itinerary

Bharatpur, Rajasthan
The distance between Agra and Bharatpur is about 57 km.

Mathura, Uttar Pradesh
The distance between Agra and Mathura is about 59 km.

Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh
The distance between Agra and Vrindavan is about 70 km.

Karauli, Rajasthan
The distance between Agra and Karauli is about 160 km.

Sariska, Rajasthan
The distance between Agra and Sariska is about 205 km.

Ranthambhore, Rajasthan
The distance between Agra and Ranthambhore is about 264 km.

Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand
The distance between Agra and Corbett National Park is about 305 km.

Nainital, Uttarakhand
The distance between Agra and Nainital is about 341 km.

Getaways from Amritsar

Amritsar is a glowing synonym of Sikh religion. Amritsar has sacred temples, tasty cuisine and an effervescent cultural aura.

A visit to the Golden Temple at Amritsar also known as Shri Harmandir Sahib is a must. Do visit the Wagah border or the Jallianwala Bagh or Akal Takht.

The best time to visit Amritsar city is between October to March.

Add destinations to your Amritsar itinerary

Pragpur, Himachal Pradesh
The distance between Amritsar and Pragpur is about 140 km.

Dalhousie, Himachal Pradesh
The distance between Amritsar and Dalhousie is about 199 km.

Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh
The distance between Amritsar and Dharamshala is about 202 km.

Kangra, Himachal Pradesh
The distance between Amritsar and Kangra is about 202 km.

Mcleodganj, Himachal Pradesh
The distance between Amritsar and Mcleodganj is about 205 km.

Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir
The distance between Amritsar and Jammu is about 215 km.

Palampur, Himachal Pradesh
The distance between Amritsar and Palampur is about 229 km.

Chandigarh
The distance between Amritsar and Chandigarh is about 229 km.

Kasauli, Himachal Pradesh
The distance between Amritsar and Kasauli is about 267 km.

Vaishno Devi, Jammu and Kashmir
The distance between Amritsar and Vaishno Devi is about 269 km.

Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
The distance between Amritsar and Shimla is about 298 km.

Kufri, Himachal Pradesh
The distance between Amritsar and Kufri is about 313 km.

Chail, Himachal Pradesh
The distance between Amritsar and Chail is about 328 km.

Kullu, Himachal Pradesh
The distance between Amritsar and Kullu is about 369 km.

Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir
The distance between Amritsar and Srinagar is about 434 km.

Getaways from Bangalore

Bangalore is a city that is effervescent with energy and representing a potpourri of people and culture. When sightseeing in Bangalore check out Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace, Cubbon Park, Bull Temple, 400+ year old Big Banyan Tree, or Lalbagh or Bangalore Palace.

The best time to visit Bangalore is between September to February.

Add destinations to your Bangalore itinerary

Hogenakkal, Karnataka
The distance between Bangalore and Hogenakkal is about 129 km.

Srirangapatna, Karnataka
The distance between Bangalore and Srirangapatna is about 127 km.

Shivanasamundra, Karnataka
The distance between Bangalore and Shivanasamundram is about 131 km.

Mysore, Karnataka
The distance between Bangalore and Mysore is about 144 km.

Sravanabelagola, Karnataka
The distance between Bangalore and Sravanabelagola is about 146 km.

Yercaud, Tamil Nadu
The distance between Bangalore and Yercaud is about 205 km.

Kabini, Kerala
The distance between Bangalore and Kabini is about 207 km.

Halebid, Karnataka
The distance between Bangalore and Halebid is about 211 km.

Bandipur Tiger Reserve, Karnataka
The distance between Bangalore and Bandipur Tiger Reserve is about 213 km.

Nagarhole National Park, Karnataka
The distance between Bangalore and Nagarhole National Park is about 221 km.

BR Hills, Karnataka
The distance between Bangalore and BR Hills is about 172 km.

Mudumalai National Park, Tamil Nadu
The distance between Bangalore and Mudumalai National Park is about 228 km.

Chikmagalur, Karnataka
The distance between Bangalore and Chikmagalur is about 244 km.

Dubare, Karnataka
The distance between Bangalore and Dubare is about 251 km.

Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh
The distance between Bangalore and Tirupati is about 252 km.

Coorg, Karnataka
The distance between Bangalore and Coorg is about 266 km.

Madikeri, Karnataka
The distance between Bangalore and Madikeri is about 266 km.

Ooty, Tamil Nadu
The distance between Bangalore and Ooty is about 267 km.

Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu
The distance between Bangalore and Kanchipuram is about 267 km.

Wayanad, Kerala
The distance between Bangalore and Wayanad is about 272 km.

Coonoor, Tamil Nadu
The distance between Bangalore and Coonoor is about 285 km.

Srikalahasti, Andhra Pradesh
The distance between Bangalore and Srikalahasti is about 289 km.

Kudremukh, Karnataka
The distance between Bangalore and Kudremukh is about 332 km.

Getaways from Chennai

A cultural city Chennai boasts a rich heritage and that is eclectically mixed with the vibrant modernism. Places or sites you may visit are Fort St George (the Secretariat and Legislative Assembly), Vivekananda House (Ice House), or the famous Marina Beach or Thirumalai Thirupathi Devasthanam Temple.

The best time to visit Chennai city is between November to February.

Add destinations to your Chennai itinerary

Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu
The distance between Chennai and Mahabalipuram is about 57 km.

Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu
The distance between Chennai and Kanchipuram is about 75 km.

Srikalahasti, Andhra Pradesh
The distance between Chennai and Srikalahasti is about 116 km.

Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh
The distance between Chennai and Tirupati is about 134 km.

Pondicherry
The distance between Chennai and Pondicherry is about 152 km.

Thiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu
The distance between Chennai and Thiruvannamalai is about 194 km.

Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu
The distance between Chennai and Chidambaram is about 216 km.

Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu
The distance between Chennai and Kumbakonam is about 295 km.

Swamimalai, Tamil Nadu
The distance between Chennai and Swamimalai is about 298 km.

Hogenakkal, Karnataka
The distance between Chennai and Hogenakkal is about 343 km.

Yercaud, Tamil Nadu
The distance between Chennai and Yercaud is about 369 km.

Bangalore, Karnataka
The distance between Chennai and Bangalore is about 347 km.

Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu
The distance between Chennai and Thanjavur is about 349 km.

Puttaparthi, Andhra Pradesh
The distance between Chennai and Puttaparthi is about 356 km.

Getaways from Delhi

Delhi is dotted with ancient forts and monuments like the Red Fort, Humayun's Tomb or Kutab Minar. You may opt for a visit to the colorful Chandni Chowk or the Bahia Lotus Temple.



The best time to visit Delhi is between August to March.


Add destinations to your Delhi itinerary

Kurukshetra, Haryana

The distance between Delhi and Kurukshetra is about 155 km.


Alwar, Rajasthan

The distance between Delhi and Alwar is about 167 km.


Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh

The distance between Delhi and Vrindavan is about 183 km.


Mathura, Uttar Pradesh

The distance between Delhi and Mathura is about 184 km.


Sariska Tiger Reserve, Rajasthan

The distance between Delhi and Sariska Tiger Reserve is about 204 km.


Haridwar, Uttarakhand

The distance between Delhi and Haridwar is about 221 km.

Bharatpur, Rajasthan

The distance between Delhi and Bharatpur is about 222 km.


Agra, Uttar Pradesh

The distance between Delhi and Agra is about 234 km.

Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand

The distance between Delhi and Corbett National Park is about 232 km.


Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

The distance between Delhi and Rishikesh is about 241 km.


Rajaji National Park, Uttarakhand

The distance between Delhi and Rajaji National Park is about 242 km.


Chandigarh

The distance between Delhi and Chandigarh is about 244 km.


Dehradun, Uttarakhand

The distance between Delhi and Dehradun is about 257 km.


Lansdowne, Uttarakhand

The distance between Delhi and Lansdowne is about 258 km.


Jaipur, Rajasthan

The distance between Delhi and Jaipur is about 282 km.


Kasauli, Himachal Pradesh

The distance between Delhi and Kasauli is about 288 km.


Shekhawati, Rajasthan

The distance between Delhi and Shekhawati is about 289 km.


Mussoorie, Uttarakhand

The distance between Delhi and Mussoorie is about 289 km.


Nainital, Uttarakhand

The distance between Delhi and Nainital is about 297 km.


Naukuchiatal, Uttarakhand

The distance between Delhi and Naukuchiatal is about 312 km.


Pauri, Uttarakhand
The distance between Delhi and Pauri is about 325 km.


Shoghi, Himachal Pradesh

The distance between Delhi and Shoghi is about 330 km.

Chail, Himachal Pradesh

The distance between Delhi and Chail is about 336 km.


Shimla, Himachal Pradesh

The distance between Delhi and Shimla is about 343 km.


Mukteshwar, Uttarakhand

The distance between Delhi and Mukteshwar is about 344 km.


Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh

The distance between Delhi and Gwalior is about 352 km.


Ranikhet, Uttarakhand

The distance between Delhi and Ranikhet is about 355 km.


Kufri, Himachal Pradesh

The distance between Delhi and Kufri is about 357 km.


Almora, Uttarakhand

The distance between Delhi and Almora is about 362 km.


Naldehra, Himachal Pradesh

The distance between Delhi and Naldehra is about 366 km.


Kishangarh, Rajasthan

The distance between Delhi and Kishangarh is about 371 km.


Ajmer, Rajasthan

The distance between Delhi and Ajmer is about 405 km.


Pragpur, Himachal Pradesh

The distance between Delhi and Pragpur is about 417 km.


Amritsar, Punjab

The distance between Delhi and Amritsar is about 449 km.


Dharamsala, Himachal Pradesh

The distance between Delhi and Dharamsala is about 469 km.


Kullu, Himachal Pradesh

The distance between Delhi and Kullu is about 492 km.


Gangotri, Uttarakhand

The distance between Delhi and Gangotri is about 498 km.


Manali, Himachal Pradesh

The distance between Delhi and Manali is about 531 km.

Badrinath, Uttarakhand

The distance between Delhi and Badrinath is about 534 km.


Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh

The distance between Delhi and Lucknow is about 555 km.




Getaways from Dehradun

Add destinations to your Dehradun itinerary

Mussoorie, Uttarakhand
Distance between Dehradun and Mussoorie is about 34 km.

Dhanaulti, Uttarakhand
Distance between Dehradun and Dhanaulti is about 36 km.

Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
Distance between Dehradun and Rishikesh is about 47 km.

Haridwar, Uttarakhand
Distance between Dehradun and Haridwar is about 53 km.

Paonta Sahib, Himachal Pradesh
Distance between Dehradun and Paonta Sahib is about 53 km.

Rajaji National Park, Uttarakhand
The distance between Dehradun and Rajaji National Park is about 61 km

Kanatal, Uttarakhand
Distance between Dehradun and Kanatal is about 77 km.

Chamba, Uttarakhand
Distance between Dehradun and Chamba is about 88 km.

New Tehri, Uttarakhand
Distance between Dehradun and New Tehri is about 99 km.

Nag Tibba, Garhwal , Uttarakhand
Distance between Dehradun and Nag Tibba is about 109 km.

Devprayag, Uttarakhand
Distance between Dehradun and Devprayag is about 114 km.

Auli, Uttarakhand
Distance between Dehradun and Auli is about 152 km.

Lansdowne, Uttarakhand
Distance between Dehradun and Lansdowne is about 158 km.

Chandigarh
Distance between Dehradun and Chandigarh is about 174 km.

Kasauli, Himachal Pradesh
Distance between Dehradun and Kasauli is about 184 km.

Har ki Doon, Uttarakhand
Distance between Dehradun and Sankri is about 187 km.

Chopta, Uttarakhand
Distance between Dehradun and Chopta is about 205 km.

Chail, Himachal Pradesh
Distance between Dehradun and Chail is about 221 km

Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
Distance between Dehradun and Shimla is about 228 km

Gangotri, Uttarakhand
Distance between Dehradun and Gangotri is about 242 km

Kufri, Himachal Pradesh
Distance between Dehradun and Kufri in Himachal Pradesh is 243 km

Delhi
The distance between Dehradun and Delhi is about 260 km

Badrinath, Uttarakhand
Distance between Dehradun and Badrinath is about 334 km

Chaukori, Uttarakhand
Distance between Dehradun and Chaukori is about 370 km.

Amritsar, Punjab
Distance between Dehradun and Amritsar is about 430 km.

How do I reach Dehradun by air? Which is the nearest airport to Dehradun?
Dehradun is a domestic airport.
The nearest International Airport to Dehradun is Delhi Airport
The distance between Delhi Airport and Dehradun is 262 km

How do I reach Dehradun by train? Which is the nearest railway station to Dehradun?
Dehradun Station is connected to cities like Delhi, Kolkatta, Varanasi, Ujjain and Indore.

Getaways from Dharamshala

Add destinations to your Dharamshala itinerary

Triund – Trek Base Camp, Himachal Pradesh
Distance between Dharamshala and Triund Base Camp is about 6 km.

Mcleod Ganj, Himachal Pradesh
Distance between Dharamshala and Mcleod Ganj is about 27 km.

Palampur, Himachal Pradesh
Distance between Dharamshala and Palampur is about 35 km.

Pragpur, Himachal Pradesh
The distance between Dharamsala and Pragpur is about 62 km

Bir, Himachal Pradesh
Distance between Dharamshala and Bir-Billing is about 65 km.

Dalhousie, Himachal Pradesh
Distance between Dharamshala and Dalhousie is about 119 km.

Khajjiar, Himachal Pradesh
Distance between Dharamshala and Khajjiar is about 129 km.

Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir
The distance between Dharamsala and Jammu is about 194 km

Amritsar, Punjab
Distance between Dharamshala and Amritsar is about 203 km.

Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Distance between Dharamshala and Shimla is about 216 km.

Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
Distance between Dharamshala and Shimla is about 234 km.

Vaishno Devi, Jammu and Kashmir
The distance between Dharamsala and Vaishno Devi is about 248 km

Chail, Himachal Pradesh
Distance between Dharamshala and Chail is about 308 km.

Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh
Distance between Dharamshala and Spiti Valley is about 411 km.

Reach Dharamshala via various airports in North India

Gaggal Airport, Himachal Pradesh
Distance between Dharamshala and Gaggal Airport at Kangra is about 14 km.

Pathankot Airport, Punjab
Distance between Dharamshala and Pathankot Airport is about 91 km.

Kullu Airport, Himachal Pradesh
Distance between Dharamshala and Kullu Airport is about 166 km.

Ludhiana Airport, Punjab
Distance between Dharamshala and Ludhiana Airport is about 204 km.

Chandigarh International Airport
Distance between Dharamshala and Chandigarh International Airport is about 243 km.

Dehradun Airport, Uttarakhand
Distance between Dharamshala and Dehradun Airport is about 433 km.

Delhi International Airport
Distance between Dharamshala and Delhi International Airport is about 487 km.

Pantnagar Airport, Uttarakhand
Distance between Dharamshala and Pantnagar Airport is about 705 km.

How do I reach Dharamsala by air? Which is the nearest airport to Dharamsala?
The nearest Airport to Dharamsala is Gaggal Airport
The distance from Gaggal Airport to Dharamsala is about 14 km.

The nearest International Airport to Dharamsala is Delhi Airport
The distance from Delhi Airport to Dharamsala is about 487 km.

How do I reach Dharamsala by train? Which is the nearest railway station to Dharamsala?
The nearest railway station to Dharamsala is Kangra Mandir Railway Station
The distance from Kangra Mandir Railway Station to Dharamsala is about 33 km.

Another railway station near to Dharamsala is Pathankot Railway Station which is at a distance of about 87 km.

Getaways from Gulmarg

Add destinations to your Gulmarg itinerary

Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir
The distance between Gulmarg and Srinagar is about 50 km.

Sonamarg, Jammu and Kashmir
The distance between Gulmarg and Sonamarg is about 124 km.

Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir
The distance between Gulmarg and Pahalgam is about 139 km.

Doda, Jammu and Kashmir
The distance between Gulmarg and Doda is about 277 km.

Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir
The distance between Gulmarg and Jammu is about 314 km.

Vaishno Devi, Jammu and Kashmir
The distance between Gulmarg and Vaishno Devi is about 304 km.

Dalhousie, Himachal Pradesh
The distance between Gulmarg and Dalhousie is about 430 km.

Dharamsala, Himachal Pradesh
The distance between Gulmarg and Dharamsala is about 462 km.

Zanskar
The distance between Gulmarg and Zanskar is about 491 km.

Delhi
The distance between Gulmarg and Delhi is 859 about km.

How do I reach Gulmarg by air? Which is the nearest airport to Gulmarg?
The nearest Airport to Gulmarg is Srinagar Airport.
The distance from Srinagar Airport to Gulmarg is about 58 km.

How do I reach Gulmarg by train? Which is the nearest railway station to Gulmarg?
The nearest railway station to Gulmarg is Jammu Railway Station.
The distance from Jammu Railway Station to Gulmarg is about 320 km.

Getaways from Goa

Goa is a popular tourist destination and has a diverse mix of beaches, nature history and is known for its parties. Laze around Goan beaches or go browsing in Goan markets; It may be worth your while to visit Old Goa.

The best time to visit Goa is between October to March. Goa does have a pleasant climate and can be visited through the year.

Add destinations to your Goa itinerary

Devbagh, Maharashtra
The distance between Goa and Devbagh is about 75 km.

Sawantwadi, Maharashtra
The distance between Goa and Sawantwadi is about 100 km.

Vengurla, Maharashtra
The distance between Goa and Vengurla is about 111 km.

Nersa, Karnataka
The distance between Goa and Nersa is about 76 km

Dandeli, Karnataka
The distance between Goa and Dandeli is about 99 km.

Amboli, Maharashtra
The distance between Goa and Amboli is about 120 km.

Gokarna, Karnataka
The distance between Goa and Gokarna is about 135 km.

Tarkarli, Maharashtra
The distance between Goa and Tarkarli is about 148 km.

Dajipur, Maharashtra
The distance between Goa and Dajipur is about 190 km.

Murudeshwar, Karnataka
The distance between Goa and Murudeshwar is about 192 km.

Kolhapur, Maharashtra
The distance between Goa and Kolhapur is about 217 km.

Panhala, Maharashtra
The distance between Goa and Panhala is about 237 km.

Badami, Karnataka
The distance between Goa and Badami is about 239 km.

Ratnagiri, Maharashtra
The distance between Goa and Ratnagiri is about 271 km.

Udupi, Karnataka
The distance between Goa and Udupi is about 291 km.

Ganapatipule, Maharashtra
The distance between Goa and Chiplun is about 295 km.

Bijapur, Karnataka
The distance between Goa and Bijapur is about 313 km.

Chiplun, Maharashtra
The distance between Goa and Chiplun is about 300 km.

Sringeri, Karnataka
The distance between Goa and Sringeri is about 361 km.

Getaways from Guwahati

Guwahati gives you options to various religious places, green hills, and tea plantations. Opt for the Temples of Hajo or the Tiger reserve at the Kaziranga National Park (World Heritage Site) or the Bhuvaneswari Temple or the Kamakhya Temple,

The best time to visit Guwahati is between October to March.

Add destinations to your Guwahati itinerary

Nalbari, Assam
The distance between Guwahati and Nalbari is about 73 km.

Shillong, Meghalaya
The distance between Guwahati and Shillong is 99 km.

Orang National Park, Assam
The distance between Guwahati and Orang National Park is about 110 km.

Barpeta, Assam
The distance between Guwahati and Barpeta is about 96 km.

Manas National Park, Assam
The distance between Guwahati and Manas National Park is about 138 km.

Kaziranga National Park
The distance between Guwahati and Kaziranga National Park is about 194 km.

Diphu, Assam
The distance between Guwahati and Diphu is about 249 km.

Bomdila, Arunachal Pradesh
The distance between Guwahati and about Bomdila is 270 km.

Jorhat, Assam
The distance between Guwahati and Jorhat is about 305 km.

Silchar, Assam
The distance between Guwahati and Silchar is about 314 km.

Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh
The distance between Guwahati and Itanagar is about 328 km.

Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary, West Bengal
The distance between Guwahati and Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary is about 349 km.

Haflong Hill, Assam
The distance between Guwahati and Haflong Hill is about 330 km.

Kohima, Nagaland
The distance between Guwahati and Kohima is about 357 km.

Dibrugarh, Assam
The distance between Guwahati and Dibrugarh is about 445 km.

Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
The distance between Guwahati and Tawang is about 446 km.

Aizawl, Mizoram
The distance between Guwahati and Aizawl is about 470 km.

Siliguri, West Bengal
The distance between Guwahati and Siliguri is about 475 km.

Imphal, Manipur
The distance between Guwahati and Imphal is about 490 km.

Kalimpong, West Bengal
The distance between Guwahati and Kalimpong is about 494 km.

Darjeeling, West Bengal
The distance between Guwahati and Darjeeling is about 511 km.

Gangtok, West Bengal
The distance between Guwahati and Gangtok is about 544 km.

Getaways from Jaipur

Jaipur is affectionately known as the Pink city has many palaces and forts to visit a resplendent reminder of its royal heritage. You may opt to visit Hawa Mahal, Amber Fort and Palace, or Nahagarh fort.

The best time to visit Jaipur is between October to March.

Add destinations to your Jaipur itinerary

Kalakho, Rajasthan
The distance between Jaipur and Kalakho is about 107 km.

Sariska Tiger Reserve, Rajasthan
The distance between Jaipur and Sariska Tiger Reserve is about 107 km.

Shekhawati, Rajasthan
The distance between Jaipur and Shekhawati is about 115 km.

Ajmer, Rajasthan
The distance between Jaipur and Ajmer is about 137 km.

Pushkar, Rajasthan
The distance between Jaipur and Pushkar is about 150 km.

Alwar, Rajasthan
The distance between Jaipur and Alwar is about 160 km.

Mandawa, Rajasthan
The distance between Jaipur and Mandawa is about 169 km.

Karauli, Rajasthan
The distance between Jaipur and Karauli is about 178 km.

Bharatpur, Rajasthan
The distance between Jaipur and Bharatpur is about 184 km.

Ranthambhore, Rajasthan
The distance between Jaipur and Ranthambhore is about 190 km.

Bundi, Rajasthan
The distance between Jaipur and Bundi is about 215 km.

Mathura, Uttar Pradesh
The distance between Jaipur and Mathura is about 221 km.

Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh
The distance between Jaipur and Vrindavan is about 233 km.

Agra, Uttar Pradesh
The distance between Jaipur and Agra is about 238 km.

Delhi
The distance between Jaipur and Delhi is about 274 km.

Chittorgarh, Rajasthan
The distance between Jaipur and Chittorgarh is about 302 km.

Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh
The distance between Jaipur and Gwalior is about 333 km.

Bikaner, Rajasthan
The distance between Jaipur and Bikaner is about 335 km.

Jodhpur, Rajasthan
The distance between Jaipur and Jodhpur is about 354 km.

Udaipur, Rajasthan
The distance between Jaipur and Udaipur is about 396 km.

Jaisalmer, Rajasthan
The distance between Jaipur and Jaisalmer is about 556 km.

Getaways from Jammu

Jammu city is located in the foot hills of Himalayas that has ancient temples, imposing palaces and historical monuments. Check out the Bahu Fort, Mubarak Mandi Palace, Mansar and Surinsar Lakes, Patnitop (offers views of green valleys and snow capped mountains), or you may visit the famous Vaishno Devi temple few kilometers from Jammu.

The best time to visit Jammu is between September to April.

Add destinations to your Jammu itinerary

Vaishno Devi, Jammu and Kashmir
The distance between Jammu and Vaishno Devi is about 59 km.

Dalhousie, Himachal Pradesh
The distance between Jammu and Dalhousie is about 173 km.

Amarnath, Jammu and Kashmir
The distance between Jammu and Amarnath is about 178 km.

Pragpur, Himachal Pradesh
The distance between Jammu and Pragpur is about 179 km.

Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh
The distance between Jammu and Dharamshala is about 191 km.

Kangra, Himachal Pradesh
The distance between Jammu and Kangra is about 192 km.

Mcleodganj, Himachal Pradesh
The distance between Jammu and Mcleodganj is about 194 km.

Amritsar, Punjab
The distance between Jammu and Amritsar is about 213 km.

Palampur, Himachal Pradesh
The distance between Jammu and Palampur is about 218 km.

Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir
The distance between Jammu and Pahalgam is about 254 km.

Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir
The distance between Jammu and Srinagar is about 266 km.

Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir
The distance between Jammu and Gulmarg is about 314 km.

Chandigarh
The distance between Jammu and Chandigarh is about 339 km.

Sonamarg, Jammu and Kashmir
The distance between Jammu and Sonamarg is about 343 km.

Kullu, Himachal Pradesh
The distance between Jammu and Kullu is about 359 km.

Manali, Himachal Pradesh
The distance between Jammu and Manali is about 399 km.

Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
The distance between Jammu and Shimla is about 408 km.

Chail, Himachal Pradesh
The distance between Jammu and Chail is about 441 km.

Kargil, Ladakh
The distance between Jammu and Kargil is about 466 km.

Mussoorie, Uttarakhand
The distance between Jammu and Mussoorie is about 569 km.

Delhi
The distance between Jammu and Delhi is about 588 km.

Leh, Ladakh
The distance between Jammu and Leh is about 682 km.

Zanskar, Ladakh
The distance between Jammu and Zanskar is about 710 km.

How do I reach Jammu by air? Which is the nearest airport to Jammu?
Jammu has a domestic airport that is connected to many airports in India especially Delhi Airport.

How do I reach Jammu by train? Which is the nearest railway station to Jammu?
Jammu Tawi Railway Station is connected to many cities in India.

Getaways from Kochi

The striking port city of Kochi is a popular tourist's destination as has lush mangroves, palm trees lined around the translucent waters of backwaters, ancient churches, cathedrals and fort. Many popular hill stations (Munnar, Wayanad) are well connected to Kochi;

Walk around Fort Kochi or catch the evening views surrounded by Fishing Nets; or visit the Bolgatty Palace or explore the quaint charm of Mattancherry Palace. The Jewish Synagogue in Kochi is one of the oldest synagogue in all the Commonwealth of Nations or offer prayers at the ancient St Francis Xavier's Church.

The best time to visit Kochi is between October to March.

Add destinations to your Kochi itinerary

Kumarakom, Kerala
The distance between Kochi and Kumarakom is about 50 km.

Alleppey, Kerala
The distance between Kochi and Alleppey is about 53 km.

Sabarimala, Kerala
The distance between Kochi and Sabarimala is about 105 km.

Munnar, Kerala
The distance between Kochi and Munnar is about 127 km.

Thekkady, Kerala
The distance between Kochi and Thekkady is about 159 km.

Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu
The distance between Kochi and Coimbatore is about 190 km.

Kozhikode, Kerala
The distance between Kochi and Kozhikode is about 200 km.

Trivandrum, Kerala
The distance between Kochi and Trivandrum is about 200 km.

Kovalam, Kerala
The distance between Kochi and Kovalam is about 212 km.

Coonoor, Tamil Nadu
The distance between Kochi and Coonoor is about 258 km.

Bandipur Tiger Reserve, Karnataka
The distance between Kochi and Bandipur Tiger Reserve is about 263 km.

Madurai, Tamil Nadu
The distance between Kochi and Madurai is about 268 km.

Wayanad, Kerala
The distance between Kochi and Wayanad is about 271 km.

Ooty, Tamil Nadu
The distance between Kochi and Ooty is about 275 km.

Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu
The distance between Kochi and Kanyakumari is about 293 km.

Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu
The distance between Kochi and Kodaikanal is about 301 km.

Palani Hills, Tamil Nadu
The distance between Kochi and Palani Hills is about 308 km.

Nagarhole National Park, Karnataka
The distance between Kochi and Nagarhole National Park is about 316 km.

Mysore, Karnataka
The distance between Kochi and Mysore is about 347 km.

Kabini, Kerala
The distance between Kochi and Kabini is about 347 km.

BR Hills, Karnataka
The distance between Kochi and BR Hills is about 355 km.

Dubare, Karnataka
The distance between Kochi and Dubare is about 362 km.

Getaways from Kolkata

The city of Kolkata boasts of a graceful culture and rich history has a friendly and laid back attitude.

Consider visiting Fort William or the Birla Planetarium, pass through Howrah Bridge or check out Marble Palace and Belur Math or offer prayers at Dakshineshwar Kali Temple...

The best time to visit Kolkata is between October to March.

Add destinations to your Kolkata itinerary

Tarakeshwar, West Bengal
The distance between Kolkata and Tarakeshwar is about 63 km.

Kamarpukur, West Bengal
The distance between Kolkata and Kamarpukur is about 97 km.

Jairambati, West Bengal
The distance between Kolkata and Jairambati is about 104 km.

Mayapur, West Bengal
The distance between Kolkata and Mayapur is about 124 km.

Navadvipa, West Bengal
The distance between Kolkata and Navadvipa is about 137 km.

Sundarbans National Park, West Bengal
The distance between Kolkata International Airport and Sundarbans National Park is about 101 km.

Santiniketan, West Bengal
The distance between Kolkata and Santiniketan is about 162 km.

Deoghar, Jharkhand
The distance between Kolkata and Deoghar is about 325 km.

Simlipal National Park, Odisha
The distance between Kolkata and Simlipal National Park is about 361 km.

Udayagiri, Odisha
The distance between Kolkata and Udayagiri is about 454 km.

Bodh Gaya, Bihar
The distance between Kolkata and Bodh Gaya is about 473 km.

Nalanda, Bihar
The distance between Kolkata and Nalanda is about 483 km.

Puri, Odisha
The distance between Kolkata and Puri is about 505 km.

Getaways from Lucknow

Charming city of Lucknow has many popular monuments like the Imambara, Rumi Darwaza, Dilkusha Kothi, Firangi Mahal, Kaiserbagh Palace, Sikander Bagh and Sankat Mochan Temple.

The best time to visit Lucknow is between October to March.

Add destinations to your Lucknow itinerary

Rae Bareli, Uttar Pradesh
The distance between Lucknow and Rae Bareli is about 80 km.

Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh
The distance between Lucknow and Kanpur is about 93 km.

Faizabad, Uttar Pradesh
The distance between Lucknow and Faizabad is about 128 km.

Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh
The distance between Lucknow and Ayodhya is about 136 km.

Sravasti, Uttar Pradesh
The distance between Lucknow and Sravasti is about 174 km.

Katra, Uttar Pradesh
The distance between Lucknow and Katra is about 203 km.

Basti, Uttar Pradesh
The distance between Lucknow and Basti is about 205 km.

Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh
The distance between Lucknow and Allahabad is about 212 km.

Chitrakoot, Madhya Pradesh
The distance between Lucknow and Chitrakoot is about 231 km.

Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh
The distance between Lucknow and Bareilly is about 248 km.

Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh
The distance between Lucknow and Khajuraho is about 309 km.

Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh
The distance between Lucknow and Sarnath is about 313 km.

Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh
The distance between Lucknow and Jhansi is about 314 km.

Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
The distance between Lucknow and Varanasi is about 321 km.

Agra, Uttar Pradesh
The distance between Lucknow and Agra is about 334 km.

Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh
The distance between Lucknow and Gwalior is about 339 km.

Panna National Park, Madhya Pradesh
The distance between Lucknow and Panna National Park is about 342 km.

Rewa, Madhya Pradesh
The distance between Lucknow and Rewa is about 344 km.

Mathura, Uttar Pradesh
The distance between Lucknow and Mathura is about 396 km.

Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh
The distance between Lucknow and Vrindavan is about 398 km.

Nainital, Uttarakhand
The distance between Lucknow and Nainital is about 398 km.

Ranikhet, Uttarakhand
The distance between Lucknow and Ranikhet is about 437 km.

Almora, Uttarakhand
The distance between Lucknow and Almora is about 444 km.

Binsar, Uttarakhand
The distance between Lucknow and Binsar is about 467 km.

Getaways from Mumbai

When in Mumbai check the sunrise or sunset at the seafront be in on Bandra bandstand or at Nariman Point, you may opt for a ferry ride to Elephanta caves or go pub hoping as Mumbai has many to offer or you may opt for an eclectic evening amongst the creative minds at the Prithvi cafe.

The best time to visit Mumbai is between October to February.

Add destinations to your Mumbai itinerary

Karnala,Maharashtra
The distance between Mumbai and Karnala is about 48 km.

Karjat, Maharashtra
The distance between Mumbai and Karjat is about 63 km.

Vajreshwari, Maharashtra
The distance between Mumbai and Vajreshwari is about 66 km.

Mahuli Fort, Maharashtra
The distance between Mumbai and Mahuli Fort is about 75 km.

Durshet, Maharashtra
The distance between Mumbai and Durshet is about 77 km.

Rajmachi, Maharashtra
The distance between Mumbai and Rajmachi is about 78 km.

Khandala, Maharashtra
The distance between Mumbai and Khandala is about 80 km.

Matheran, Maharashtra
The distance between Mumbai and Matheran is about 83 km.

Lonavala, Maharashtra
The distance between Mumbai and Lonavala is about 84 km.

Alibaug, Maharashtra
The distance between Mumbai and Alibag is about 95 km.

Kamshet, Maharashtra
The distance between Mumbai and Kamshet is about 101 km.

Palghar, Maharashtra
The distance between Mumbai and Palghar is about 115 km.

Igatpuri, Maharashtra
The distance between Mumbai and Igatpuri is about 121 km.

Kashid, Maharashtra
The distance between Mumbai and Kashid is about 126 km.

Malshej Ghat, Maharashtra
The distance between Mumbai and Malshej Ghat is about 127 km.

Jawahar, Maharashtra
The distance between Mumbai and Jawahar is about 141 km.

Alandi, Maharashtra
The distance between Mumbai and Alandi is about 145 km.

Pune, Maharashtra
The distance between Mumbai and Pune about 149 km.

Bordi, Maharashtra
The distance between Mumbai and Bordi is about 160 km.

Raigad, Maharashtra
The distance between Mumbai and Raigad is about 160 km.

Bhandardara, Maharashtra
The distance between Mumbai and Bhandardara is about 164 km.

Nashik, Maharashtra
The distance between Mumbai and Nashik is about 168 km.

Shrivardhan, Maharashtra
The distance between Mumbai and Shrivardhan is about 171 km.

Silvassa, Dadra Nagar Haveli
The distance between Mumbai and Silvassa is about 173 km.

Daman, Daman and Diu
The distance between Mumbai and Daman is about 177 km.

Trimbakeshwar, Maharashtra
The distance between Mumbai and Trimbakeshwar is about 178 km.

Harihareshwar, Maharashtra
The distance between Mumbai and Harihareshwar is about 185 km.

Udvada, Maharashtra
The distance between Mumbai and Udvada is about 187 km.

Bhimashankar, Maharashtra
The distance between Mumbai and Bhimashankar is about 196 km.

Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra
The distance between Mumbai and Mahabaleshwar is about 222 km.

Murud Janjira, Maharashtra
The distance between Mumbai and Murud Janjira is about 230 km.

Harnai, Maharashtra
The distance between Mumbai and Harnai is about 234 km.

Chiplun, Maharashtra
The distance between Mumbai and Chiplun is about 238 km.

Shirdi, Maharashtra
The distance between Mumbai and Shirdi is about 240 km.

Panchgani, Maharashtra
The distance between Mumbai and Panchgani is about 255 km.

Ratnagiri, Maharashtra
The distance between Mumbai and Ratnagiri is about 326 km.

Grishneshwar, Maharashtra
The distance between Mumbai and Grishneshwar is about 339 km.

Pandharpur, Maharashtra
The distance between Mumbai and Pandharpur is about 357 km.

Aurangabad, Maharashtra
The distance between Mumbai and Aurangabad is about 369 km.

Kolhapur, Maharashtra
The distance between Mumbai and Kolhapur is about 387 km.

Panhala, Maharashtra
The distance between Mumbai and Panhala is about 390 km.

Tuljapur, Maharashtra
The distance between Mumbai and Tuljapur is about 440 km.

Bijapur, Karnataka
The distance between Mumbai and Bijapur is about 468 km.

Maheshwar, Madhya Pradesh
The distance between Mumbai and Maheshwar is about 515 km.

Tarkarli Maheshwar
The distance between Mumbai and Tarkarli is about 545 km.

Vengurla, Maharashtra
The distance between Mumbai and Vengurla is about 555 km.

Sawantwadi, Maharashtra
The distance between Mumbai and Sawantwadi is about 531 km.

Ahmedabad, Gujarat
The distance between Mumbai and Ahmedabad is about 532 km.

Omkareshwar, Madhya Pradesh
The distance between Mumbai and Omkareshwar is about 578 km.

Goa
The distance between Mumbai and Goa is about 598 km.

Getaways from Pune

Pune is a baffling mix of new India. You may not need more than half a day to sightsee in Pune to visit Aga Khan Palace, Shaniwar Wada, Mulshi Lake and Dam, Osho Ashram, Parvati Hill Temples, St. Mary's Church. Pune is a regular getaway for Indians looking to relax for one or two days with its excellent mix of restaurants.

The best time to visit Pune is between September to March.

Add destinations to your Pune itinerary

Alandi, Maharashtra
The distance between Pune and Alandi is about 24 km.

Kamshet, Maharashtra
The distance between Pune and Kamshet is about 47 km.

Lonavala, Maharashtra
The distance between Pune and Lonavala is about 64 km.

Khandala, Maharashtra
The distance between Pune and Khandala is about 73 km.

Rajmachi, Maharashtra
The distance between Pune and Rajmachi is about 74 km.

Matheran, Maharashtra
The distance between Pune and Matheran is about 81 km.

Mumbai, Maharashtra
The distance between Pune and Mumbai is about 94 km.

Durshet, Maharashtra
The distance between Pune and Durshet is about 102 km.

Karjat, Maharashtra
The distance between Pune and Karjat is about 103 km.

Bhimashankar, Maharashtra
The distance between Pune and Bhimashankar is about 111 km.

Panchgani, Maharashtra
The distance between Pune and Panchgani is about 112 km.

Malshej Ghat, Maharashtra
The distance between Pune and Malshej Ghat is about 125 km.

Karnala, Maharashtra
The distance between Pune and Karnala is about 125 km.

Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra
The distance between Pune and Mahabaleshwar is about 131 km.

Raigad, Maharashtra
The distance between Pune and Raigad is about 132 km.

Alibaug, Maharashtra
The distance between Pune and Alibag is about 143 km.

Murud Janjira, Maharashtra
The distance between Pune and Murud Janjira is about 157 km.

Shrivardhan, Maharashtra
The distance between Pune and Shrivardhan is about 157 km.

Harihareshwar, Maharashtra
The distance between Pune and Harihareshwar is about 171 km.

Bhandardara, Maharashtra
The distance between Pune and Bhandardara is about 173 km.

Kashid, Maharashtra
The distance between Pune and Kashid is about 175 km.

Shirdi, Maharashtra
The distance between Pune and Shirdi is about 185 km.

Vajreshwari, Maharashtra
The distance between Pune and Vajreshwari is about 194 km.

Chiplun, Maharashtra
The distance between Pune and Chiplun is about 201 km.

Harnai, Maharashtra
The distance between Pune and Harnai is about 201 km.

Mahuli Fort, Maharashtra
The distance between Pune and Mahuli Fort is about 203 km.

Pandharpur, Maharashtra
The distance between Pune and Pandharpur is about 211 km.

Aurangabad, Maharashtra
The distance between Pune and Aurangabad is about 238 km.

Trimbakeshwar, Maharashtra
The distance between Pune and Trimbakeshwar is about 242 km.

Palghar, Maharashtra
The distance between Pune and Palghar is about 244 km.

Kolhapur, Maharashtra
The distance between Pune and Kolhapur is about 245 km.

Guhagar, Maharashtra
The distance between Pune and Guhagar is about 245 km.

Jawahar, Maharashtra
The distance between Pune and Jawahar is about 249 km.

Ganapatipule, Maharashtra
The distance between Pune and Ganapatipule is about 346 km.

Getaways from Udaipur

Sitting pretty on the banks of lake Pichola Udaipur City is one the most beautiful cities of Rajasthan, India. Udaipur is well known as the lake city with three interconnected lakes, the Pichola Lake, Swaroop Sagar Lake and Fateh Sagar Lake. Visit the Bada Mahal, the majestic City Palace, Jag Mandir Palace, Laxmi Chowk, Shilp Gram, Vintage Car Museum, Eklingi Temple...

The best time to visit Udaipur is between September to March.

Add destinations to your Udaipur itinerary

Nathdwara, Rajasthan
The distance between Udaipur and Nathdwara is about 50 km.

Kumbhalgarh, Rajasthan
The distance between Udaipur and Kumbhalgarh is about 87 km.

Ranakpur, Rajasthan
The distance between Udaipur and Ranakpur is about 94 km.

Chittorgarh, Rajasthan
The distance between Udaipur and Chittorgarh is about 120 km.

Mount Abu, Rajasthan
The distance between Udaipur and Mount Abu is about 164 km.

Ambaji, Gujarat
The distance between Udaipur and Ambaji is about 172 km.

Jodhpur, Rajasthan
The distance between Udaipur and Jodhpur is about 245 km.

Ajmer, Rajasthan
The distance between Udaipur and Ajmer is about 265 km.

Ahmedabad, Gujarat
The distance between Udaipur and Ahmedabad is about 264 km.

Bundi, Rajasthan
The distance between Udaipur and Bundi is about 271 km.

Pushkar, Rajasthan
The distance between Udaipur and Pushkar is about 280 km.

Osian, Rajasthan
The distance between Udaipur and Osian is about 312 km.

Pavagadh, Gujarat
The distance between Udaipur and Pavagadh is about 319 km.

Baroda, Gujarat
The distance between Udaipur and Baroda is about 345 km.

Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh
The distance between Udaipur and Ujjain is about 350 km.

Jaipur, Rajasthan
The distance between Udaipur and Jaipur is about 394 km.

Sawai Madhopur, Rajasthan
The distance between Udaipur and Sawai Madhopur is about 400 km.

Ranthambhore, Rajasthan
The distance between Udaipur and Ranthambhore is about 414 km.

Shekhawati, Rajasthan
The distance between Udaipur and Shekhawati is about 440 km.

Bikaner, Rajasthan
The distance between Udaipur and Bikaner is about 485 km.

Jaisalmer, Rajasthan
The distance between Udaipur and Jaisalmer is about 493 km.

Mandawa, Rajasthan
The distance between Udaipur and Mandawa is about 496 km.

Alwar, Rajasthan
The distance between Udaipur and Alwar is about 539 km.

Getaways from Varanasi

The holy city Varanasi is picturesquely placed on the bank of the holy Ganga. Plenty to do at Varanasi and top most on the list should be an experience of evening Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh ghat and offer prays at the Kashi Vishwanath Temple.

The best time to visit Varanasi is between October to March.


Add destinations to your Varanasi itinerary

Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh

The distance between Varanasi and Sarnath is about 10 km.

Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh

The distance between Varanasi and Allahabad is about 121 km.


Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh

The distance between Varanasi and Ayodhya is about 200 km.


Bodh Gaya, Bihar

The distance between Varanasi and Bodh Gaya is about 243 km.


Vaishali, Bihar

The distance between Varanasi and Vaishali is about 276 km.


Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh

The distance between Varanasi and Lucknow is about 305 km.


Nalanda, Bihar

The distance between Varanasi and Nalanda is about 305 km.


Sravasti, Uttar Pradesh

The distance between Varanasi and Sravasti is about 313 km.


Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh

The distance between Varanasi and Khajuraho is about 392 km.


Ranchi, Jharkhand
The distance between Varanasi and Ranchi is about 424 km.

Getaways from Chidambaram

Add destinations to your Chidambaram itinerary

Sirkazhi, Tamil Nadu
The distance between Chidambaram and Sirkazhi is about 24 km

Mayiladuthurai, Tamil Nadu
The distance between Chidambaram and Mayiladuthurai is about 44 km

Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu
The distance between Chidambaram and Kumbakonam is about 74 km

Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu
The distance between Chidambaram and Thanjavur is about 111 km

Chennai, Tamil Nadu
The distance between Chidambaram and Chennai is about 231 km

Bangalore, Karnataka
The distance between Chidambaram and Bangalore is about 387 km

How do I reach Chidambaram by air? Which is the nearest airport to Chidambaram?
The distance from Tiruchirappalli Airport to Chidambaram is about 186 km.
Tiruchirappalli Airport is connected to Chennai airport by regular flights.

How do I reach Chidambaram by train? Which is the nearest railway station to Chidambaram?
Chidambaram Railway Station is connected to all major cities in India through Chennai and Tiruchirapalli.

Getaways from Dalhousie

Add destinations to your Dalhousie itinerary

Gaggal Airport, Himachal Pradesh
The distance between Dalhousie and Gaggal Airport is about 107 km

Dharamsala, Himachal Pradesh
The distance between Dalhousie and Dharamsala is about 119 km

Mcleodganj, Himachal Pradesh
The distance between Dalhousie and Mcleodganj is about 121 km

Palampur, Himachal Pradesh
The distance between Dalhousie and Palampur is about 145 km

Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir
The distance between Dalhousie and Jammu is about 175 km

Amritsar, Punjab
The distance between Dalhousie and Amritsar is about 199 km

Vaishno Devi, Jammu and Kashmir
The distance between Dalhousie and Vaishno Devi is about 229 km

Chandigarh
The distance between Dalhousie and Chandigarh is about 302 km

Delhi
The distance between Dalhousie and Delhi is about 589 km

How do I reach Dalhousie by air? Which is the nearest airport to Dalhousie?
The nearest Airport to Dalhousie is Pathankot Airport.
The distance from Pathankot Airport to Dalhousie is about 87 km.
Pathankot Airport is connected with Delhi Airports.
Another airport near to Dalhousie is Jammu Airport
The distance from Jammu Airport to Dalhousie is about 170 km.

How do I reach Dalhousie by train? Which is the nearest railway station to Dalhousie?
The nearest railway station to Dalhousie is Pathankot Railway Station
The distance from Pathankot Railway Station to Dalhousie is about 83 km

Getaways from Coorg

Add destinations to your Coorg itinerary

Madikeri, Karnataka
The distance between Coorg and Madikeri is 23 km

Nagarhole National Park, Karnataka
Distance between Coorg and Nagarhole is about 73 km.

Hassan, Karnataka
Distance between Coorg and Hassan is about 104 km.

Mysore, Karnataka
Distance between Coorg and Mysore is about 119 km.

Belur, Karnataka
Distance between Coorg and Belur is about 122 km.

Kabini, Kerala
Distance between Coorg and Kabini is about 123 km.

Srirangapatna, Karnataka
Distance between Coorg and Srirangapatna is about 123 km.

Wayanad, Kerala
Distance between Coorg and Wayanad is about 128 km.

Halebid, Karnataka
Distance between Coorg and Halebid is about 133 km.

Mangalore, Karnataka
Distance between Coorg and Mangalore is about 139 km.

Chikmagalur, Karnataka
Distance between Coorg and Chikmagalur is about 148 km.

Bandipur Tiger Reserve, Karnataka
Distance between Coorg and Bandipur Tiger Reserve is about 183 km.

Kudremukh, Karnataka
Distance between Coorg and Kudremukh is about 196 km.

Sringeri, Karnataka
Distance between Coorg and Sringeri is about 206 km.

Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Distance between Coorg and Ooty is about 246 km.

Bengaluru, Karnataka
Distance between Coorg and Mangalore is about 266 km.

How do I reach Coorg by air? Which is the nearest airport to Coorg?
The nearest Airport to Coorg is Mangalore Airport.
The distance from Mangalore Airport to Coorg is about 146 km.
The nearest International Airport to Coorg is Bangalore Airport.
The distance from Bangalore Airport to Coorg is about 287 km.

How do I reach Coorg by train? Which is the nearest railway station to Coorg?
The nearest railway stations to Coorg are Mangalore (136 km), Hassan (!05 km), Mysore (118 km) and Thalassery Railway Station (113 km); Mangalore Railway station is a major Railway Station connected to many cities in India.

Getaways from Coonoor

Add destinations to your Coonoor itinerary

Ooty, Tamil Nadu
The distance between Coonoor and Ooty is about 20 km

Mudumalai National Park, Tamil Nadu
The distance between Coonoor and Mudumalai is about 61 km

Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu
The distance between Coonoor and Coimbatore city is about 69 km

How do I reach Coonoor by air? Which is the nearest airport to Coonoor?
The nearest Airport to Coonoor is Coimbatore Airport.
The distance from Coimbatore Airport to Coonoor is about 73 km.

The nearest International Airport to Coonoor is Bangalore Airport
The distance from Bangalore Airport to Coonoor is about 325 km.

How do I reach Coonoor by train? Which is the nearest railway station to Coonoor
Coonoor Railway Station is a stop on the way to Ooty from Mettupalayam and is connected to Coimbatore Railway Station.

Rajarājeśvaram or Brihadisvara Temple, Thanjavur, part of Great Living Chola Temples, A UNESCO World Heritage Site

This is Brihadishvara Temple dedicated to Shiva is located near Cauveri River delta in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, India. Referred by many names - one of them being Rajarājeśvaram - it was built by the victorious Raja Raja Chola I between 1003 and 1010 AD.

The Brihadishvara temple is recogized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site and is one of the 'Great Living Chola Temples’. Other temples recognized by UNESCO in the same group are Gangaikonda Cholapuram temple (73 km) and Airavatesvara temple (37 km).

Brihadishvara is a Sanskrit composite word > Brihat/d = great or vast and Ishvara = Shiva or the supreme atman-soul - hence the name Brihadishvara Temple. An exemplary example of Dravidian architecture it is also called as Dakshina Meru for its majestic Vimana that symbolically represents Mount Meru. Brihadeshwara Temple in Tamil is called Peruvudaiyār Kōvil temple since located in Thanjavur is also referred to as Thanjai Periya Kovil [ Periya in Tamil means ‘great’]. How to reach Brihadiswara Temple in Thanjavur?

Vimana of Brihadisvara Temple, Thanjavur, part of Great Living Chola Temples, A UNESCO World Heritage Site

The Tanjore Brihadishvara temple is a spectacular achievement of its era and scholars believe that the Cholas had literally and meticulously planned its every detail. Every aspect of the temple not just its architectural design and layout but the exact positions of its main shrine or shivlinga surrounding sculptures, images, inscriptions - secondary shrines and their positions and directions of bronze images, sub-shrines, everything was pre-planned.

There are inscriptions referring to the exact positions where each element ought to have been.

The Cholas managed to even build the sacred concept - that of Mount Meru as its Vimana. The main vimana has forms of Shiva - including Nataraja, Bhiksasana ,Chakradanamurti, Ardhanarisvara, Lingodbhava, Gangadhara depicted on its walls. You will also find Pancha Brahma at Brihadisvara Temple in Thanjai or the sculptures of  Tatpurusa, Aghora, Sadyojata, Vamadeva and Isana that are placed in specific positions in niches. How to reach Brihadiswara Temple in Thanjavur?

Inscriptions, Brihadisvara Temple, Thanjavur, part of Great Living Chola Temples, A UNESCO World Heritage Site

The emperor Rajaraja I was not only powerful but was also a visionary with exemplary administrative skills - as he not only recorded how the temple was built - or its regular structural maintenance -but he also recorded laborious details on forms of worship of primary and secondary deities - apart from the regular pooja rituals - nritta-geeta-vadya was an essential part of daily worship. The emperor had made provisions of material and manpower for the regular rituals of worship and its many festivals not just for the temples present requistes but also for its future.

400 dancers were enrolled for nritta worship and inscribed details include their form of expertise and accomplishments - they were paid in land and gold - 240 musicians supported the vadya form (instrumental) of worship - and their qualifications were also duly noted - the emperor also appointed 50 musicians to sing poems of the Shaiva saints who lived between the 6th and 10th centuries - especially from Thevaram of Thirupatigam.

Each department at the temple had supervision that was entrusted to commanders and commander-in-chiefs.

How to reach Brihadiswara Temple in Thanjavur?

Inscribed Records, Brihadisvara Temple, Thanjavur, part of Great Living Chola Temples, A UNESCO World Heritage Site

What makes Raja Raja I unique is the lengths he went to - his concern was to preserve Brihadisvara Temple at Thanjavur for the present and beyond his lifetime - as a visionary he was aware that it would require hundreds with diverse and myraid capabilities to do so. Raja Raja I ensured that every person in his kingdom who wanted to serve the temple - was involved across hierarchies in the temple activities - or the ones appointed were responsible.

An apt example would be - Raja Raja I ensured that the smallest of detail was described, recorded and rules were adhered to - for example a bronze image would be described, its weight recorded, the cost incurred of its making plus its maintenance. A person was appointed for each and every image who looked after its safety as it had number of gems and ornaments on it as well as its worship.

Another example would be records of every gift be it from the emperors, his mother, his sister or his commanders was recorded including the smallest gold or silver spoon would be registered with its weight and cost. How to reach Brihadiswara Temple in Thanjavur?

Subrahmanya Temple, Brihadisvara Temple, Thanjavur, part of Great Living Chola Temples, A UNESCO World Heritage Site

The temple is referred as Murugan or Subrahmanya temple and is built on a raised platform that has intricately designed niches and wall carvings. It is a three-storeyed structure with a shikhara that is like its deity six-faced and its corners are adorned with peacocks.

The temple is dedicated to Subrahmanya in his Sanmukha form who is six-faced with twelve arms, seated on a peacock, flanked by his wives Valli and Devasena.

The Murugan temple’s ceiling is held by sculpted pillars - one such sculpture depicts Vishnu dancing like Nataraja. The temple has panels of Durga killing Mahisasura and Kali killing Nishumbha - plus Ganesha and standing four-armed Subrahmanya in its niches. The sculptures in the temple are carved in black granite a contrast to the temple being built of lighteror paler shade of granite. How to reach Brihadiswara Temple in Thanjavur?

Chandeshvara Temple, Brihadisvara Temple, Thanjavur, part of Great Living Chola Temples, A UNESCO World Heritage Site Chandeshvara Nayanar Temple

Chandesa is one of the 63 Shiva Saints who holds a special place in a Shiva temple - and in a temple as large as Brihadisvara Temple, Thanjavur - he has his own separate shrine which is three-storeyed, located to the north of the main vimana of Brihadisvara temple. The temple has an octagonal shikhara that has four sculptures of a seated Chandikesvara and the corners are adorned by four Nandis.

Inside the Chandikeshwara (Chandesa ) temple - you will see 5 Chandikesvara images, two are seated images in the sanctum and three standing Chandikesvara in the niches, thus forming Pancha-Chandikesvara concept - the central one represents the Dhvani Chandesa, the second one in the sanctum represents Yamini Chandesa of Uma and the other three Chandesa are Tejas Chandesa, Kumbha Chandesa and Mitra Chandesa. How to reach Brihadiswara Temple in Thanjavur?

Since the Chandesa is believed to be associated with Dhvani or the primordial sound - whenever a devotee visits Chandesa temple - before leaving a temple - its a tradition to clap hands - to pay your respect to the sound deity.

Kaltali - Brihadisvara Temple, Thanjavur, part of Great Living Chola Temples, A UNESCO World Heritage Site

How does one conclude that a temple has a shudda type of architecture?

There is an inscription or a declaration by the emperor ‘that he has built the SriVimana at Brihadisvara - Thanjai - out of stone or (Kaltali) or reiterating that it has been built by using only one type of material and that is the granite stone. The architecture style where one uses only a single material for constructing the entire Vimana is called shuddha or pure type of architecture according to shastras of temple building. [Temples from that era used multiple materials like stone mixed with wood or plaster that temple would be termed as mishra type of temple.]

How to reach Brihadiswara Temple in Thanjavur?

How to reach Brihadiswara Temple, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, India?

Brihadeswara Temple is located in Thanjavur also known as Tanjore in Tamil Nadu, India. Thanjavur gained importance as the capital of the Chola empire for about 150 years towards the end of the first millennium.

How to reach Brihadeswara Temple, Thanjavur by air? Which is the nearest airport to Brihadeswara Temple, Thanjavur
Tiruchirappalli International Airport is the nearest airport to Thanjavur and it is at a distance of about 61 km.
Distance between Tiruchirappalli International Airport and Brihadeswara Temple is about 60 km.

How to reach Brihadeswara Temple, Thanjavur by train? Which is the nearest railway station to Brihadeswara Temple, Thanjavur?
Brihadeswara Temple is located in the city of Thanjavur - and Thanjavur Junction is well connected to other cities by train.
Distance between Thanjavur Railway Station and Brihadeswara Temple is about 2.5 km.

The best time to visit Brihadeswara Temple is between November to February as the climate is much cooler.

Lakshmi, Brihadisvara Temple, Thanjavur, part of Great Living Chola Temples, A UNESCO World Heritage Site

In any Chola temple you will find steps on the northern and southern sides as seen at Brihadisvara Temple at Thanjavur and both the sides are guarded by the dvarpalas.

In most temples the the garbha griha is symbolically considered as the goddess - whereas the main vimana is considered as the purusha.

You will find the image of Mahalakshmi on the southern side of the mandapa at the Brihadisvara Temple, Thanjavur, and that of Saraswati on the northern side with steps leading to the central sanctum. The main sanctum is edged by image of Surya on the southern side and image of Chandra on the northern side. 

The Mahalinga Mahadeva in girbhagriha - is so designed that whe any you enter for darshan his third eye falls directly on you the devotee. How to reach Brihadiswara Temple in Thanjavur?

Nataraja, Brihadisvara Temple, Thanjavur, part of Great Living Chola Temples, A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Frame is of Nataraja at Brihidisvara Temple, Thanjavur.

You will find Shiva’s vivid dance postures and fluid movements on the first floor of the Brihadisvara temple around the sanctum. There are panels of 81 sculpted karanas (dance postures) - should have been actually 108 but the rest are uncarved.

An artistic interpretation is that the main image of the Brihadisvara temple is actually Nataraja, the Cosmic Dancer, and the space above the shivlinga is ‘akasha or his rangabhumi where he dances’ and that is why the dance postures or karanas are carved on the upper floor walls of the garbha griha.

Or in other words Bharata’s Natyashastra is found here in sculptural sequence and is the earliest magnificent acknowledgement of Bharata’s Natyashastra in visual form in India.

How to reach Brihadiswara Temple in Thanjavur?

Saraswati, Brihadisvara Temple, Thanjavur, part of Great Living Chola Temples, A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Elaborately bejeweled than usually seen, sculpture of four-armed seated Sarasvati, the goddess of learning, music, arts, literature and every aspect of creativity and culture at Brihadisvara Temple, Thanjavur. How to reach Brihadiswara Temple in Thanjavur?

Apart from hindus Saraswati is also reverred by the Buddhists and Jains.

Chandesa Anugraha Murti, Brihadisvara Temple, Thanjavur, part of Great Living Chola Temples, A UNESCO World Heritage Site

In this frame we see Shiva blessing Chandesa who is a Shaivite Saint. You will find Chandesa Anugraha Murti in many temples dedicated to Shiva. [Anugraha = divine blessing]. How to reach Brihadiswara Temple in Thanjavur?

Whether you see the Chandesa-Anugraha-Murti at Thanjavur Bridadisvara Temple or at Gangaikonda Cholapuram - you will see three figures - Shiva with jewelry and his locks that seem like a crown - he would have Parvati on his left and both are seated with one leg folded up and the other pendent. Their devotee Chandesa is sitting below in an ‘Anjali mudra’ humbled by Shiva’s grace receiving his blessings in the form of garland.

In this particular frame at Brihadisvara Temple - Sculptor has followed the principle of hierarchical Shilpashatra where the sculpture of Shiva is the largest in size followed by Parvati and the smallest being Chandesa.

Devi, Brihadisvara Temple, Thanjavur, part of Great Living Chola Temples, A UNESCO World Heritage Site

The creative arts that one would witness around the Brihadisvara temple at Thanjavur is predominantly focussed on Shaivism or Shiva worship but you also see expression of Vaishnavism and Shaktism traditions. How to reach Brihadiswara Temple in Thanjavur?

Ornate Pillars, Brihadisvara Temple, Thanjavur, part of Great Living Chola Temples, A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Brihadisvara Temple, Thanjavur has sculpted deities that are worshipped and classical sculptures that are very artistic - add to the mix pure narrative sculptures that express myths from Shiva Purana and other sacred texts and stories leaping out of its array of ornate pillars. How to reach Brihadiswara Temple in Thanjavur?

Murals, Brihadisvara Temple, Thanjavur, part of Great Living Chola Temples, A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Raja Raja Chola I filled Brihadisvara temple at Thanjavur with paintings. These paintings depict Dakshinamurthi, Tripurantaka, Kalyansundara or narrate local legends including life of Saint Sundaramurthi and of the Raja Raja I himself visiting Chidambaram temple.

The paintings are more focussed on bhava or the inner expression of every character. There are paintings with dancers performing nritya also showcasing the importance of worshipping using multiple dance forms under his reign.

The paintings at Brihadisvara Temple, Thanjavur are not only classical but are finely executed, using predominantly natural colours including brown, black, yellow, red, blue, white and tones of green. How to reach Brihadiswara Temple in Thanjavur?

Nataraja Painting, Brihadisvara Temple, Thanjavur, part of Great Living Chola Temples, A UNESCO World Heritage Site

You will find Chola frescoes covering floor to ceiling on the sanctum walls along the pradakshina path pathway at the Brihadisvara Temple, Thanjavur. The Chola frescoes narrate hindu myths predominantly focussed on Shiva - and were painted using natural pigments which were infused into the wet limestone layer whilst it was setting in. Apart from Shaivite themes - some frescoes depict Vishnu, Durga and scenes of majestic Chola rule and day to day life. How to reach Brihadiswara Temple in Thanjavur?

This dance posture or karana of Nataraja is termed as urdhvatāṇḍava.

As per legend Shiva and Kali had a dance duel which was judged by Vishnu. Both of them being competitive kept on outdoing themselves. Than Shiva performed a difficult dance step where he lifted his left foot towards the sky in the Urdhva Tandava posture, this being a male gesture - and in accordance with the decorum of the natty sabha - Kali being a female couldn't display the same. This legend is also depicted in the Nritya Sabha, of the Chidambaram temple

Narasimha sculpture found on Gopuram at Brihadishvara Temple, Thanjavur

Sculpture narrates the story of Narasimha - the ferocious avatar of God Vishnu - whose incarnation’s sole purpose was to restore dharma - by destroying evil in the form asura king Hiranyakashipu and end his religious persecution. How to reach Brihadiswara Temple in Thanjavur?

King Hiranyakashipu gains a vardaan or a boon from Brahma for his severe penance that he cannot be killed by a man or animal, during day or night, nor inside or outside, not by any weapon. Once he receives the power he believes that he is immortal and hence should be worshipped as god. He specifically persecutes all Vishnu devotees including his own son Prahlada as Vishnu had killed his brother Hiranyaksha.

Prahalad undeterred continues worshipping Vishnu. After numerous unsuccessful attempts by Hiranyakashipu of disciplining Prahlada, in absolute frustration he proclaims - where is your Vishnu!

Prahalad calmly mentions that Vishnu is present everywhere and in everything. In rage Hiranyakashipu hits a pillar in his own palace and says according to you Vishnu should be in this pillar too - Prahalad in absolute belief confirms Vishnu’s presence. And to Hiranyakashipu shock the pillar breaks and a ferocious Narasimha steps out.

Its a fatal moment - its twilight neither day or night - Narasimha is part Lion and part man - he places the asura king on the threshold on his thigh thus is neither inside or outside and lastly he tears open Hiranyakashipu with his claws not using any weapon in absolute accordance with the Brahma's boon.

Relief, Brihadisvara Temple, Thanjavur, part of Great Living Chola Temples, A UNESCO World Heritage Site

You will find array of sculpted forms and panels of Shiva reminding us of various myths from Shiv Puranas all over the Brihadisvara Temple at Thanjavur. How to reach Brihadiswara Temple in Thanjavur?

Sanctum walls on the ground floor has sculptures of Lingodbhava, Pashupata-murti on the East wall.

The South wall depicts Nataraja, Dakshinamurti, Kalantaka, Virabhadra, and Bhikshatana.

The west wall has Harihara, Lingodbhava, Chandrashekhara with and without prabhavali.

The North wall showcases Ardhanarishvara, Gangadhara without Parvati, Pashupata-murti, Shiva-alingana-murti.

Kalpavriksha Sculpture, Brihadisvara Temple, Thanjavur, part of Great Living Chola Temples, A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Kalpavriksha sculpture found on Gopuram at Brihadishvara Temple, Thanjavur How to reach Brihadiswara Temple in Thanjavur?

Sculpture depicts Kalpavriksha also known as Kalpataru that emerged during the Samudra manthan or the 'churning of the ocean of milk or kshirsagar'. Kalpavriksha is a wish fulfilling tree with a power of giving one any object that is wished for. Its an auspicious symbol and is found carved in many Hindu, Buddhist and Jain temples in India.

Anugrahamurti at Brihadisvara Temple at Gangaikonda Cholapuram, part of Great Living Chola Temples, A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Chandesa Anugraha Murti at Brihadisvara Temple at Gangaikonda Cholapuram is masterpiece of Chola art.

This theme originally represents Siva bestowing his grace on Chandikesvara his devotee also one of the 63 renown Saivite saints - In this sculpted panel Chandesa is replaced by victorious King Rajendra Chola I who humbly presents himself as a devotee to receive grace of and blessings from Siva in the form of a garland. How to reach Brihadisvara Temple at Gangaikonda Cholapuram?

Bhikstana at Brihadisvara Temple at Gangaikonda Cholapuram, part of Great Living Chola Temples, A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Bhikshatana form of Shiva at Brihadisvara Temple at Gangaikonda Cholapuram i- Shiva as a Bhikshu a naked ascetic who is extremely good looking - wearing nothing except some jewelery and his hand holding a shallow begging bowl or kapala.

Bhikshatana Murtis are usually depicted along with a dancing deer standing on its hind legs reach up to Shiva's outstretched arm, followed by demonic beings and rishi patnis in various moods or rasa. How to reach Brihadisvara Temple at Gangaikonda Cholapuram?

Nataraja at Brihadisvara Temple at Gangaikonda Cholapuram, part of Great Living Chola Temples, A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Nataraja at Brihadisvara Temple, Gangaikonda Cholapuram a well known form of Siva as the cosmic dancer. How to reach Brihadisvara Temple at Gangaikonda Cholapuram?

Shiva when dancing the Ananda Tandav is expressing - a precarious balance of opposites. So whilst ‘tandav’ means the dance of destruction, ‘ananda’ in Sanskrit means pleasure. Nataraja holds ‘fire’ in one off his hands which destroys and the same ‘fire’ also symbolizes heat necessary for life. Whereas his drum provides the pulse or rhythm for life the same rhythm squashes apasmara who is symbolic of ignorance.

Lingodbhava at Brihadisvara Temple at Gangaikonda Cholapuram, part of Great Living Chola Temples, A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Liṅgodbhava carved in Brihadisvara Temple at Gangaikonda Cholapuram refers to one of the many forms of Siva - Liṅgodbhava signifies Śiva as formless and incomprehensible - at a basic level the illustration reveals a tale from various ancient texts or Puranas that falsehood is not appreciated by God nor is it tolerated even if the gods or devas get involved in it. Basically if Śiva can help Brahmā, the creator realize his mistake every being can be punished for their evil activities. How to reach Brihadisvara Temple at Gangaikonda Cholapuram?

Early Shaiva saint Tirugnana Sambandar refers to Liṅgodbhava as a form of Shiva as the nature of light that could not be discerned either by Vishnu or Brahma.

Gangadhara at Brihadisvara Temple at Gangaikonda Cholapuram, part of Great Living Chola Temples, A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Gangadhara at Brihadisvara Temple at Gangaikonda Cholapuram is a manifestation of Shiva that helps Ganga descent from the Himalayas to earth. Ganga is usually depicted in his matted locks and Parvati standing next to him. How to reach Brihadisvara Temple at Gangaikonda Cholapuram?

In most such sculptures you would have Bhagiratha standing with Anjali mudra in a mood of penance. Both Bhagiratha and Ganga are absent here.