My TripAdvisor Review No.113: Konkan, India.

“Beaches of Konkan.....Better than Goa.”

  Reviewed 2 September 2015 NEW

 

I don’t know why people keep on raving about Goa when the beaches of Konkan are just as good, if not better than the beaches of Goa.

The Konkan region of Maharashtra stretches along the coastline from the north of Mumbai down to the south Maharashtra town of Sawantwadi, just north of the state of Goa. The coastline of Goa is just an extension of the Konkan coastline. The Konkan, in fact, is a narrow strip of fertile land in the state of Maharashtra, India, which lies between the Arabian Sea coast and the foothills of the Western Ghats (also known as the Sahyadri Mountains). The heavy rains in the monsoon season make the region look very green and beautiful.

Some of the better known beaches of the Konkan are Bordi, Palghar (north of Mumbai) and Alibag, Kashid, Murud-Janjira, Shrivardhan, Harihareshwar, Ganpatipule, Ratnagiri, Kunkeshwar, Malvan, Vengurla (south of Mumbai). Many of the smaller beaches around them are virgin beaches and you may not find a soul on some of the sandy stretches. They have not yet been developed as tourist destinations and it is their isolation and natural beauty that make them so attractive.

However many of the beaches are also well known for their fish markets. The Konkani fishermen venture into the Arabian Sea early in the morning and return to the shore by dawn. Their catch is immediately auctioned on the beach markets! It is an interesting spectacle to watch and partake in the beach towns like Shrivardhan, Harnai, Devgad and Vengurla.

There are a number of historic forts in the Konkan region but most of them are in a state of disrepair. Some of the more famous sea forts are the Janjira Fort at Murud-Janjira, Jaigad and Ratnadurga Forts in Ratnagiri district, Vijaydurg and Sindhudurg Forts in Sindhudurg district.

Konkani food has its own unique piquant flavours. Good use is made of the local herbs and spices to make vegetarian and chicken or fish gravies. Rice, coconut and fish are the staples of the local diet. Solkadi, a spicy drink made from coconut milk, kokum, garlic and coriander leaves is very popular and helps to digest the spicy curries. Alphonso mangoes, the king of fruits, grow best in the Ratnagiri and Devgad regions of the Konkan.

The common languages spoken in the villages are Marathi, Konkani and Hindi.

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Visited August 2015

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My TripAdvisor Review No.112: Shri Girijatmaj Temple, Lenyadri, Maharashtra.

“Holy Ganesh Mandir in an Ancient Buddhist Cave”

Reviewed 15 August 2015NEW

This temple is one of the eight Swayambhu (self existent) Ganeshas which devotees include in their holy ‘Ashtavinayak’ trip. The idol is an integral part of the stone wall of a cave. This one is also known as the ‘Girijatmaj Ganesha’. It is believed that Ganesha was born to Parvati here at Lenyadri. These caves are a set of about 30 ancient Buddhist caves dating back to between the 1st and 3rd century AD. Cave No.8 is the beautiful Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha. The other caves are mainly for prayer and meditation, and as monk dwellings.

These caves are set in a hillside at Lenyadri about 5 km from Junnar town and about 100 km from Pune city. The route from Pune is via Pune Nashik highway (NH50) up to Narayangaon, from where a left turn after the ST bus stand takes you to Junnar and Lenyadri. Rickshaws, Jeeps and buses can be hired from Junnar to the foothills. As you approach Lenyadri you will be greeted by the beautiful hill range on which these rock cut caves are clearly visible from a distance. During monsoons the hill may be shrouded in a blanket of clouds.

You have to climb more than 300 steep steps to reach up to the caves. For the old and unfit palki services can be hired for Rs.700 to carry you up from the bottom of the hill. Holy offerings are available at the shops lining the entrance at the foothill. There are some snack stalls as well as some shops where you can buy local raisins and other rural produce at wholesale rates. There is an entry fee of Rs.10 per vehicle and ample parking space at the foothill.

The Girijatmaj Ganesh Mandir is a must visit for the devotees of Lord Ganesha, as well as for the natural beauty that surrounds it. The view of the River Kukadi, green fields and hills around are indeed mesmerising.

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Visited July 2015

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My TripAdvisor Review No.111: Lenyadri Caves, Junnar, Maharashtra.

“Ancient Buddhist Caves with a Holy Ganesha Temple”

Reviewed 14 August 2015NEW

These caves are a set of about 30 ancient Buddhist caves dating back to between the 1st and 3rd century AD. Cave No.8 is a beautiful Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha. In fact, it is one of the eight Swayambhu (self existent) Ganeshas which devotees include in their holy ‘Ashtavinayak’ trip. The idol is an integral part of the stone wall of the cave. This one is also known as the ‘Girijatmaj Ganesha’. It is believed that Ganesha was born to Parvati at Lenyadri. The other caves are mainly for prayer and meditation, and as monk dwellings.

These caves are set in a hillside at Lenyadri about 5 km from Junnar town and about 100 km from Pune city. The route from Pune is via Pune Nashik highway (NH50) up to Narayangaon, from where a left turn after the ST bus stand takes you to Junnar and Lenyadri. Rickshaws, Jeeps and buses can be hired from Junnar to the foothills. As you approach Lenyadri you will be greeted by the beautiful hill range on which these rock cut caves are clearly visible from a distance. During monsoons the hill may be shrouded in a blanket of clouds.

You have to climb more than 300 steep steps to reach up to the caves. For the old and unfit palki services can be hired for Rs.700 to carry you up from the bottom of the hill. Holy offerings are available at the shops lining the entrance at the foothill. There are some snack stalls as well as some shops where you can buy local raisins and other rural produce at wholesale rates. There is an entry fee of Rs.10 per vehicle and ample parking space at the foothill.

Lenyadri caves are a must visit for its religious and historical significance, as well as the natural beauty that surrounds it. The view of the River Kukadi, green fields and hills around are indeed mesmerising.

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Visited July 2015

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My TripAdvisor Review No. 110: Reddy's Restaurant, Kalyani Nagar, Pune.

“Excellent Tandoori Chicken”

Reviewed 12 August 2015NEW

We visited this al fresco restaurant to taste their Tandoori Chicken. Reddy's is already famous in Pune for their tandoori items. We were quite happy to know that we were not far wrong in our judgement and quite enjoyed the perfectly marinated tandoori chicken, and delicious biryani.

They also serve other non and veg Indian preparations both dry and with gravy, and at fairly reasonable rates.

They have a nice garden sit out dining area, with beach umbrellas, and air coolers. They also do home delivery for nearby localities.

• Visited June 2015
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My TripAdvisor Review No.109: Shivneri Fort, Junnar, Maharashtra.

“Birthplace of Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Founder of the Maratha Empire.”

Reviewed 10 August 2015 NEW

This impressive fort is located in the Junnar district of Maharashtra, about 100 km north of Pune. It is situated on top of a 300 metre high hill which is clearly visible as you approach Junnar town. There is a 5 km motorable road that climbs steeply up to the Fort entrance from Junnar. After that you have to trudge up the stone staircase that takes you to the top. The ascending path to the top is defended by seven gates, the fifth one being armoured with anti-elephant spikes. There are more than about 400 steps to be climbed and it can take an able bodied fit person about 20 to 25 minutes to reach the top. The climb is not recommended for the aged or weak of heart.

For keen trekkers and hikers the fort, and the areas around it, is a wonderful and rugged destination for a day long trek. The steps take you past some beautifully landscaped gardens, and of course the view from the top is indeed breathtaking and sufficient reward for the trouble.

There are mud and rock walls all around the fort. Inside the fort the major buildings are the prayer hall, the tomb and a mosque. There are statues of Jijabai and young Shivaji in the temple inside. Shivaji is said to have been born at this site on 19 February 1630. The fort has several rock hewn cisterns and ponds which have water throughout the year. There are also some Buddhist caves in the hillside below which the fort stands, but this may not be easily accessible unless you are equipped with proper trekking gear.

Shivneri Fort is one of the iconic forts of Maharashtra. It is a must visit if you are anywhere near Junnar town. Entry to the fort is free and the timings are from 6 am to 5 pm.

The other nearby tourist spots is the Lenyadri Buddhist caves and Girijatmaj Ashtavinayak Ganesh Mandir, about 8 km away. Malshej Ghat, well known for its monsoon scenery is about 30 km further towards Kalyan. From Pune the route is via Bhosari, Chakan, Rajgurunagar and Narayangaon on the Pune Nashik highway (NH50). At Narayangaon you have to take a left turn after the ST bus stand to Junnar town.

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Visited July 2015

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My TripAdvisor Review No.108: Malshej Ghat, near Pune.

“Monsoon Magic at Malshej”

Reviewed 3 August 2015NEW

Malshej Ghat is a paradise for nature lovers, especially those who enjoy dancing in the rain. It lies on the Kalyan Ahmednagar Highway (NH222), about 155 km from Mumbai. From Pune it is about 130 km. Take the Pune Nashik highway (NH50), turn left at Narayangaon and proceed to Junnar (SH111). From Junnar town, Malshej is another 25 km ahead. You will pass the beautiful Pimpalgaon Joga Dam on the way. You will know that you have reached Malshej Ghat (during monsoon season) when you see the clouds rising above the hills and then swooping down menacingly to engulf you. It will look scary at first but then you have to move ahead, albeit at a reduced speed, till you are entirely engulfed in the mist. Visibility is minimal and it is advisable to switch on all the lights of your vehicle.

After another few kilometres you will come across a multitude of waterfalls, big and small, and at some places you will see some food stalls serving baked corn, wada pao, and egg bhurji, as well as hot cups of tea. Travellers stop here for refreshments and to enjoy a shower under the falls. It is advisable to avoid the weekends, as the heady combination of natural beauty and holiday revelry can cause more than just a few traffic problems.

As you proceed ahead towards Mumbai you will pass a tunnel at the end of which are some more huge waterfalls, one of which falls directly on to the road with a lot of force. It is quite a thrill to drive your car under this one, and get a free car wash in the bargain!

The MTDC Resort is located at a vantage point at Malshej Ghat. Sushant Resort situated next to the Pimpalgaon Joga Lake is another hotel surrounded by natural beauty. Junnar town, about 25 km towards Pune has a handful of stay options. One can also visit the famous Shivneri Fort, birthplace of Shivaji Maharaj, and the Lenyadri Buddhist caves near Junnar.

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Visited July 2015

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My TripAdvisor Review No.107: Mahalaxmi Temple, Kolhapur.

“Most Famous Temple of Kolhapur.”

Reviewed 20 July 2015NEW

Kolhapur has many temples, but the Mahalaxmi Temple is the most well known amongst them. Your trip to Kolhapur is not complete if you have not visited this temple dedicated to the Goddess Mahalaxmi, the consort of Vishnu, and it is believed that the divine couple reside in the area around the temple. The temple is also known as Dakshin Kashi, and Ambabai Mandir.

The temple is very ancient and is said to have been built in the 7th century, and belongs to the Kannada Chalukya Empire. Upon entering the main entrance there are several deepmalas (stone lamp pillars) on both sides. An image of Garuda faces the sanctum. Another stone mandap enshrining Ganesh also faces the sanctum. Following this is the mandap with three shrines facing west. The central one is that of Mahalaxmi and the two on either side are those of Mahakali and Mahasaraswati. The temple complex exhibits mortarless construction echoing the style of the early Deccan temples. The image of Mahalaxmi carved in black stone is 3 feet in height.

The temple doors open at 4.45 am and remain open till 10.30 pm. Five worship services and Aartis are offered at notified timings through the day, starting from 5 am. A festival image of the deity is taken out in procession every Friday, and on full moon days. Consequently Fridays are the most crowded days at the temple and one may have to wait long to get a darshan. On the other days it does not take more than an hour of waiting in the queue. Order and discipline is well maintained by the temple authorities. Mahaprasad (holy food) is distributed after 12 noon by the temple trust on full moon days.

There is a footwear stand outside the temple where one can leave one’s shoes after paying a token amount. Offerings to the goddess can be purchased from the numerous stalls outside. Photography is prohibited inside the temple.

The area around the temple is very congested due to narrow roads and milling crowds. Hence it is better to park your vehicle some distance away in the nearby lanes and walk the last few metres to the temple.

After visiting the temple one can shop around from the various stalls and shops which sell local produce. One can buy images of the deities, prayer items, eatables, fruit, and even Kolhapuri slippers.

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Visited March 2015

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My TripAdvisor Review No.106: Moreshwar Ganesh Mandir Temple, Morgaon, Near Baramati.

“Ashtavinayak Ganpati Temple No.1.”

Reviewed 19 July 2015NEW

This Ganpati temple at Morgaon near Pune has one of the eight Swayambhu (self formed, not made by man) Ganpati idols in the state of Maharashtra. The devotees who do the AshtaVinayak yatra, or pilgrimage of the eight Swayambhus always start at this temple, and end the yatra also at this temple.

The temple is made of black stone and is surrounded by a high wall. As you enter you are greeted by an idol of the Nandi Bull. There is also an idol of his vehicle, the mouse, enclosed in a glass case, and a large deepa stambha (pillar for lamps). As you enter the inner sanctum you will see the idols of two huge peacocks above the door. The name 'Mayureshwar Ganpati' has been derived from the peacocks which used to inhabit Morgaon village. The vermilion coloured Ganpati idol sits regally in the sanctum, silently blessing his devotees.

Decorum is maintained in the temple by the pujaris, and despite the large crowds we were able to get Lord Ganeshas blessings in half an hour. Outside the temple there are numerous stalls selling offerings, as well as restaurants where you can buy a decent vegetarian meal. Parking lot for vehicles is about 300 meters away from the temple.

Morgaon is about 80 km from Pune city. Take NH9 (Pune Sholapur highway) past Hadapsar, Loni, Uruli Kancahn, Yevat, till you reach Chaufula. At Chaufula you have to turn right to get on to the Ahmednagar Satara highway, and go past Supa till you reach Morgaon.

Visited May 2015

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My TripAdvisor Review No.105: Pali Ganesh Mandir, near Nagothane.

“Shri Ballaleshwar Ganpati at Pali.”

 

Reviewed 8 July 2015 NEW

Ballal Vinayak at Pali is one of the eight Ashtavinayak Ganapati temples dedicated to Lord Ganesha. Legend has it that this Ganapati is said to have come to the aid of a young lad, Ballal, who was one of his fervent devotees. Shri Ballaleshwar is the only incarnation of Lord Ganesha which is known by a devotee’s name.

There are two routes to approach this temple town from Pune. One is via the Pune- Mumbai expressway upto Khalapur, and then via the Khopoli – Pali state highway. The other route is via Chandni Chowk, Pirangut, Paud, Mulshi, Tamhini Ghat, Vile, Nandgaon and Pali. We chose the latter as it is a more scenic and picturesque route. It is about 120 km from Pune via Mulshi. The road is reasonably good except for a 2 km stretch near Vile.

The architecture of the temple is very unique and beautiful. It is constructed in stone and wood. There is a hall outside the sanctum, with a live TV screen, where we could sit for a while and pray in peace.

A towering mountain of the Sahyadri range near the temple adds to the natural beauty of the place.

We found free parking for our car about 200 meters away from the temple, and picked up a plate of offerings from one of the numerous stalls near the entrance. The premises were very clean and well organised with proper barricades so there was no chaos near the entrance. We had a very good and peaceful darshan of the Lord. We picked up some souvenirs and Prasad and were quite satisfied with the blessings from Lord Ganesha.

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Visited July 2015

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My TripAdvisor Review No 104: Kittu's Farm & Resort, Kolad.

“Green, Serene Getaway.”

Reviewed 3 days ago NEW

This resort is tucked away in the interiors of Kolad, which nestles in the foothills of the Sahyadri mountains midway between Mumbai and Pune. It would have been difficult to find the place if we had not got the clear directions from Mr. Kittu himself. After descending from Pune via Mulshi Lake and the Tamhini Ghat we had to take a left turn at Vile junction on the Kolad road till Sutarwadi and then turn right on the Yeral road. After about 1 km we reached Kittu’s Farm.

It had a very beautiful setting next to the serene Sutarwadi Lake. The cottage was surrounded by young coconut and mango trees in a small farm. The surroundings were very peaceful and green. Since it was a weekday we had the whole resort to ourselves. Mr Kittu had instructed the caretaker to keep our lunch ready and even though we arrived at 3 pm we got a fresh hot thali lunch.

Since there were no other guests we chose the big room with 4 double beds and a powerful ac. The furniture was basic but comfortable, and meals were served just outside our room in the open dining area next to the kitchen. The caretaker Mr Dharamveer was very courteous and catered to all our needs. Airtel network was not available but he lent us his DoCoMo cellphone to make a call.

The resort is located next to the Sutarwadi Lake and dam and there was a small gazebo nearby, where we could sit and admire the natural beauty of the surroundings. On one side was the serene lake with its water flowing through the opening in the bund and creating a gurgling musical sound, and on the eastern side were the towering hills of the Sahyadri range. It was indeed a picture post card setting.

The Kundalika River rafting point is about 12 km away from the resort, on the Pali road. There is a fixed timing for the rafting which depends when water is released from the upstream dam. Generally rafting is allowed between 9.30 to 10 am in the morning. We reached a bit late but just in time to see the last few rubber rafts rushing down the rapids. Then we left for the Pali Ganpati temple which was another 22 km down the country road.

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• Stayed June 2015, travelled as a couple
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My TripAdvisor Review No.103: Lalbagh Botanical Garden, Bengaluru.

“A Beautiful Garden of the Garden City.”
4 of 5 stars Reviewed 19 June 2015 NEW

Lalbagh Botanical Garden is one of the main tourist attractions of Bangalore. It is located in the heart of the city in the beautiful residential area of Jayanagar. The garden is accessible through four gates, but vehicles are allowed in only through the East gate. There is ample parking space if you enter through this gate. Vehicular movement inside the garden is restricted.

The garden is of royal origin, and designed in the Mughal style. It was started initially by Hyder Ali in 1760, and further developed by his son Tipu Sultan, and later by the British. It now covers an area of 240 acres.

The garden has a very scenic layout. It has over 1000 species of flora, and has some giant trees which are over a 100 years old. The garden is aesthetically designed with lawns, flower beds, lotus pools and fountains. In one of the lawns is a lawn clock, the first such clock in India, surrounded by fairy-tale characters.

In the center of the garden is a glass house, designed on the lines of the Crystal Palace of England. The famous flower shows of Bangalore are held in this glass house.

At the end of the garden is the Lalbagh Lake. One has to climb a few steps to get a panoramic view of this beautiful lake. There are well laid out pathways and tracks inside the park, and one can visit Lalbagh gardens for a morning or evening walk. The timings of the garden is from 6 am to 7 pm and it is open on all days.
Visited March 2015
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My TripAdvisor Review No.102: Sankey Tank, Bengaluru.

“Good Place for a Brisk Walk.”
4 of 5 stars Reviewed 18 June 2015 NEW

Sankey Tank is an excellent place for a morning or evening walk and workout. It is located in the suburb of Malleshwaram in Bangalore. The circumference of the track around the tank is about 2 km.

The walking track has been developed around a man made lake which was built by Col. Richard Sankey of the Madras Sappers Regiment in 1882, to meet the water supply demands of Bangalore. The tank was later converted into a park by the Bangalore Water Supply authorities. There is also a municipal swimming pool nearby which is open to the public at specified timings.

A lot of local people visit this park regularly for their morning and evening walks. There is ample parking space around the park. The tracks are clearly demarcated so that the walkers keep to the left side and observe the 'traffic rules' for walking! In addition there is a board giving you the inspirational message of the day. There is also a separate area with basic gym equipment where one can have a workout.

There is a 'duck house' in the middle of the lake and an area where you can feed the pigeons and other birds.

When you are finished with your walk there are health food, juice, fruit and vegetable stalls outside the gates.

Visited March 2015
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My TripAdvisor Review No.101: Hotel Mandhar Regency, Hubli-Dharwad, Karnataka.

“One of the Better Hotels in Hubli Dharwad.”
3 of 5 stars Reviewed yesterday NEW

We were weary from our long drive from Pune to Bangalore and decided to break journey and take rest for the night. I learnt later that this is also the meaning of the word ‘Dharwad’, a place where travellers can break a long journey and take rest. And Dharwad lies exactly midway between Pune and Bangalore on the NH4 highway. As we were approaching Dharwad, we called the Hotel to find that they had a room available. We had to leave the highway and enter Dharwad town and drive in about 4 km to reach College Road, where the hotel is located.

They have a small parking area for about 6 or 7 cars. There is a nice looking party lawn as you enter the gates. We took the room without AC, and with complimentary breakfast and a bottle of mineral water thrown in the tariff seemed quite reasonable.

The room was a bit crowded with two beds, a coffee table and cane chairs. The bathroom did not have sufficient fittings to hang clothes on. There was a cupboard and TV in the room, which we did not use. However, it was decent enough for an overnight stay.

We went down to their AC restaurant ‘Darbar’ for dinner, and quite enjoyed their Butter Chicken with nan. The restaurant seems to be popular with the locals too, as we saw quite a few families from Dharwad coming in for dining.

Their complimentary breakfast was a limited plate of idli or wadas with a cup of tea or coffee, which was served in their outdoor bamboo hut restaurant ‘Cosy Cottage’.

As we checked out we were offered a refreshing cup of coffee from their vending machine.

Stayed March 2015, travelled as a couple
4 of 5 stars Sleep Quality
3 of 5 stars Rooms
4 of 5 stars Service

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My TripAdvisor Review No.100: Kollam Beach, Kollam, Kerala.

“OK for an evening walk.”
3 of 5 stars Reviewed 15 June 2015 NEW

Kollam beach is about a km from the Kollam Railway Station. It is a 2 km long stretch of brown sand, but not very clean. There is a children's park adjacent to the beach which has a giant white statue of a mermaid.

Swimming is prohibited on the beach because of the dangerous undercurrents, and a few people are said to have drowned in the sea here.

There are a number of snack food stalls lining the beach and the local people and tourists generally come to this beach in the evenings for a snack, a stroll or to enjoy a beautiful view of the sunset. Children can enjoy an outing in the nearby park. There is ample parking space for vehicles adjacent to the beach and rickshaws are also easily available.

The Thangassery Lighthouse is just barely visible about 2 km north of Kollam Beach.
Visited November 2014
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My TripAdvisor Review No.99: Theeram (restaurant), Varkala Beach, Kerala.

“Good Sea Food with a Good Sea View,”
4 of 5 stars Reviewed 12 June 2015 NEW

We stopped at Theeram on Varkala Beach for lunch en route to Kollam from Trivandrum. It was a nicely decorated but quaint looking double decker shack serving Indian tandoori, Kerala sea food, Italian pizzas and Tibetan momos.

We went up to the upper deck and ordered a Malabari fish with steamed rice, and a mushroom tomato pizza. Service was slow but we enjoyed the exquisite sea view of Varkala Beach while waiting for the food. The food was delicious and the rates were reasonable and we quite enjoyed our meal. The one thing that irritated us was the naughty crows on the coconut trees nearby. They kept threatening to snatch the food from our plates if we were not vigilant.

Nevertheless we enjoyed our seafood meal experience in a double decker beach shack.

Visited November 2014
4 of 5 stars Value
3 of 5 stars Service
5 of 5 stars Food

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My TripAdvisor Review No.98: Varkala Beach, Kerala

“Beach with a Cliff View!”
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 8 June 2015 NEW

We stopped at Varkala Beach for lunch en route Trivandrum to Kollam. It is about 50 km north of Trivandrum.

There are a lot of restaurants on the main Papanasam (wash away sins) Beach. We chose a double decker restaurant and had our lunch on the top deck. We enjoyed the sea view as much as the sea food at the restaurant. Just behind the restaurant there were steps leading up to the cliffs which gives Varkala Beach it's special scenic beauty. There are a lot of hotels on the cliff top where one can spend a longer vacation. There is even a helipad on top.

The Sree Janardhana Swami Temple and the Sivagiri Mutt are two well known religious places located near Varkala, but we did not have time to visit.

Varkala beach is comparable to some of the better beaches of Goa for it's raw natural beauty. We would certainly like to spend a few more days here on our next Kerala holiday.

Visited November 2014
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My TripAdvisor Review No.97: Thiruvanathapuram Zoo.

“One of the Best Zoos in India.”
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 6 June 2015 NEW

We had wanted to visit this zoo ever since we saw the movie, ‘The Life of Pi’. The movie is based on the Booker Prize winning novel with the same title authored by Yann Martel. The Canadian author’s story is based on his research he had done on the animal behaviours during his visits to this zoo in 1996-97.

Founded by the Maharaja of Travancore in 1857, it is the oldest zoo in India. It is set in a rambling 55 acre botanical garden in the centre of Thiruvanathapuram, and is located in the same compound as the Napier Museum and Sri Chitra Art Gallery. There is a nominal entry fee per person, but camera charges were Rs.50. The timings are 10 am to 5 pm on all days, but closed on Mondays.

If one wants to explore the entire zoo on foot, then be prepared to spend at least two hours of walking around the natural surroundings of jungles, lakes and gardens around which the cages and enclosures are set. The zoo authorities have tried to keep all the animals in a natural environment, though it was not possible to eliminate cages altogether. Golf carts are also available for those who are not able to spend so much time and effort to walk around.

All in all it is a good experience for children and adults who are fond of wildlife and nature. You can click snaps of the animals as if they are in their natural habitats, if you have camera with a good zoom.

Visited November 2014
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My TripAdvisor Review No.96: Kovalam Beach, Trivandrum, Kerala.

“Beautiful but commercialised.”
3 of 5 stars Reviewed 5 June 2015 NEW

Kovalam is a well known beach town located about 16 km from Kerala's capital city, Trivandrum. We hired a cab to drive down to the beach as part of the sight seeing trip around Trivandrum.

The 17 km long crescent shaped beach is actually broken up into 3 parts by rocky outcroppings. These 3 parts are called 1) Lighthouse Beach, 2) Hawah Beach and 3) Samudra Beach. All along the shoreline is fringed with beautiful cocont trees.

Our cab driver took us to the central Hawah Beach which is somewhat more crowded, and full of restaurants, hotels and water sports activities. We could see the Vizhinjam Lighthouse from here, but the Samudra Beach in the north was not visible. There is a different route to the Samudra Beach and all the 5 star resorts of Kovalam are located on this side. So Samudra Beach is more like a private beach.

Compared to the beaches of Goa and Maharashtra I would say Kovalam Beach is average, since it has been so commercialised. Maybe if we had come here in the evening and witnessed a sunset I might have rated it higher on the beauty scale.

Visited November 2014
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My TripAdvisor Review No.95: Poovar Island, Trivandrum, Kerala.

“Remote Tropical Paradise.”
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 4 June 2015 NEW

Poovar island is located in the extreme southern tip of the state of Kerala. It is about 35 km south west from Trivandrum towards the Arabian Sea. Here the Neyyar River flowing down from the Agastyamala Hills comes and meets the Arabian Sea, forming a beautiful estuary, surrounded by mangrove forests.

The best way to explore Poovar Island is by boat. The boatman will take you through the mangrove forests to the Neyyar River and then downriver towards the sea. The river then runs almost parallel to the sea, separated only by a sand bank which forms part of the island. You can take a walk on the beach formed by the sand bank, but it is quite dangerous to swim here, as the sea is very rough.

There are a number of high end resorts located at or near Poovar Island. Some of these are, 'Isola Di Coco', 'Estuary Island', and 'Poovar Island Resort'. You will also find some floating restaurants along the Neyyar River where you can enjoy a meal in a tropical setting next to the flowing river.

Visited November 2014
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My TripAdvisor Review No.94: Padmanabhapuram Palace, near Trivandrum.

“Fascinating Ancient Palace.”
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 4 June 2015 NEW

Although this palace is located in Kanyakumari district of the state of Tamil Nadu, it was built in the 16th century by the Rajas of the erstwhile Travancore when Padmanabhapuram was the capital city of the kingdom of Travancore. The Palace is a fine specimen of Kerala’s indigenous style of traditional architecture. Even now it is maintained by the Govt. of Kerala’s Archaeology Department.

We visited this palace on the way from Poovar (Kerala) to Kanyakumari. After passing the town of Marthandam and crossing the Neyyar River on the Kerala border, we arrived at the Tamil Nadu town of Thuckalay where the palace is located. There is an entry fee of Rs.35 per person and Rs.50 for a camera. It is closed to the public on Mondays.

As you enter you will see a clock tower with a 300 year old clock which still keeps time. Once you are inside it is as if you have been transported into a completely different world by a time machine. There are at least 50 to 60 rooms in different sections of the palace, and there is an attendant in each of the rooms to guide you around that room.

The antique interiors are replete with intricate rosewood carvings and sculptured decor. The shining floor of the Durbar Hall is made from a weird combination of natural ingredients which include egg whites, jaggery, lime, burnt coconut shells, charcoal and river sand. In the Raja’s bedroom there is a 64 piece wooden bed made from a variety of medicinal trees. There is an entire room filled with Chinese jars all gifted by Chinese merchants. There are 17th and 18th century murals, windows with coloured mica, hanging brass lanterns which have been lit continuously since the 18th century, carved figures holding oil lamps, on columns made from jackfruit wood, and fish carvings on the ceilings. A part of the palace is now a heritage museum exhibiting antique household articles and curios.

This palace is a must visit in your tour of Southern Kerala, especially if you are interested in history

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Visited November 2014
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My TripAdvisor Review No.93: Poovar Backwater Cruise, Poovar, Trivandrum, Kerala.

“Fascinating Backwater Boat Ride.”
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 2 June 2015 NEW

Early one morning we were walking along to Virali village, near Poovar, for breakfast when we noticed these colourful fibre glass boats parked on the banks of the river. The boatman offered us a ride through the backwater canals and even agreed to wait while we had breakfast at a riverside restaurant.

We were not expecting much, but it turned out to be a very fascinating boat ride indeed. As we entered the mangrove forests the foliage from the overhanging branches closed in on us. The boatman slowed down the speed of the boat so that the motor made less noise and we were silently gliding through the mangroves. We saw many water birds at close quarters. There were egrets, kingfishers, cormorants, cranes, eagles and some other bird species which we couldn’t identify.

We passed some resorts like ‘Isoly di Coco’, ‘Estuary Resort’, and ‘Poovar Island Resort’ in the backwaters. Some of them even have floating cottages on the river bank.

After some time we reached the much wider Neyyar River and now he increased the boat speed till we reached the riverside restaurant named ‘Anna Boorna’, where we had a breakfast of dosas and uthappas. It was an open air shack overlooking the river and had a beautiful setting. There are some other floating restaurants too, along the riverside.

We then got back into the boat and went to the estuary where the river enters the sea. There was a sand bank beyond which is the Arabian Sea. We stopped and climbed on to the sand bank and got our feet wet in the sea water. The slope of the beach is steep and it is not safe to swim here, as the waves are quite rough.

It was indeed a fascinating and unique boat ride experience, not to be missed if you are visiting this southernmost tip of Kerala, near Trivandrum.

Visited November 2014
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