The statue of Gommateshvara Bahubali is the main pilgrimage site for Jains. This statue of Bahubali is the world’s tallest monolithic stone statue. It’s a 58 ft high statue carved from the single block of Granite. The Gomateswara temple is built on top of Vindhyagiri hill at an altitude of 3347 feet. To reach the top of the hill, about 600 steps have to be passed.

The Place is famous as Lord Bahubali attained salvation over here. According to Jain mythology, Lord Gomateshwara (Lord Bahubali) was the son of the first Jain Tirthankara named Lord Adinatha. Bahubali and Bharatha were brothers who fought over the kingdom but Bharatha lost this battle. But Bahubali gave the kingdom to his brother and then attained kevalgyana or salvation.

Every twelve years, thousands of devotees gather here to conduct the Mahamastakabhisheka, a magnificent ceremony in which the statue is ordained with water, turmeric, sandalwood paste, gold and silver flower. Last Mahamastakabhisheka was done in 2018 and next will be held in 2030.

There are several historical basadis within the town as well. Chamundaraya Basadi, Odegal Basadi, Bandhara Basadi, Aregal Basadi, Parshwanatha Basadi, and Halebelagola are the other important pilgrimage sites near the temple.

Best time to Visit Shravanabelagola

The best time to visit Shravanabelagola is from the months of October to March i.e. winter season. The place experiences monsoon between the months of June to September.

How to Reach Shravanbelagola

The closest international airport is Bengaluru International airport which is a 4.5-hour drive away from the town.

The nearest railway station is located in Shravanabelagola. It links the town with important destinations in India like Bangalore, Pune, Chandigarh, Coimbatore, Lucknow, and Delhi.

The city of Madurai is known for its presence in various religions and cultures. Remains of various religions make it an important pilgrimage place.

The main attraction of Madurai city is the Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple. This temple is a classic example of Dravidian architecture. The sanctum sanctorum of this temple is 3500 years old and the temple complex is built on about 45 acres of land. This rectangular temple, which is located in the old city of Madurai, is a famous pilgrimage center. There are a total of 27 gopurams in the temple, on which colourful figures of Gods and Goddesses are made. The gopuram in the south is the largest and is 160 feet high. The idol is adorned with precious jewellery by seeing the the devotees get mesmerized.

The most important festival associated with the temple is “Minakshi Thirukalyanam (Divine Marriage of  Devi Minakshi)”, which the locals celebrate every year in the month of April. This marriage practice has also been given the name of “Madurai Marriage”.

Other prominent places to visit in Madurai are Thirumalai Nayakar Temple, Vaigai Dam, Gandhi Museum, Cathedral Church, Kazimar Big Mosque and many more temples.

How to reach Madurai

 Madurai’s transport system is well connected to other parts of the country. Madurai Airport is connected to various cities like Delhi, Chennai, Mumbai, and Bangalore. Chennai is the nearest international airport.

 The Madurai railway network is connected to various cities such as Mumbai, Kolkata, Mysore, Coimbatore, and Chennai. The bus facility is also available from Madurai to various cities like Chennai, Bangalore, Coimbatore, Trivandrum, etc.

Weather of Madurai

The weather in Madurai is dry and hot. However, it is advisable to visit this place between the months of October to March. During this time the weather is cool and pleasant and suitable for tourism.

Top places to visit in Wayanad are:

Banasura Dam:  The Banasura Dam is the largest earthen dam in the country and the second-largest in Asia. An earthen dam is one which is created by mounds of clay, sand, rock or soil. The picturesque view of the dam leaves a traveler awe-struck. Banasura dam has adventures like speedboating, trekking and camping too.

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary

Wayanad Wildlife sanctuary is a house of many endangered species of flora and fauna. It is a part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. Established in 1973, the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is contiguous to the protected area network of Nagarhole and Bandipur of Karnataka and Mudumalai of Tamil Nadu. Teak, Bamboo, rosewood, eucalyptus includes the major part of the flora and infauna crocodiles, termite hill gecko, flying lizard, Langurs, chameleon, and many more.

Edakkal Caves: These famous pre-historic caves are known for the exquisite rock and wall carvings. Edakkal caves are located on Ambukutty Mala 25 km from Kalpetta, the caves impart hypnotizing beauty to its viewers, impound historic significance in favor of ancient civilization. 

Chembra Peak: The highest peak of Wayanad hills is located just 8km south of Kalpetta offers a panoramic view. It is a must to explore the place for travelers as it surrounds lush greenery and the famed heart-shaped lake makes it a paradise for travelers The peak is famous among trekkers for trekking also.

Soochipara Falls: Also known as Sentinel Rock Waterfalls is the best tourist place for the travelers. They falls from a height of 200meters high. The major attraction of the place lies in the treetop which gives an enthralling view of the entire Western Ghat valleys. Soochipara falls are famous among trekkers and rock climbers.

The other major tourist attractions that are worth watching in Wayanad are Kuruva Island, Pookot Lake, and many more.

The best time to visit Wayanad – the god’s own country is to travel from October to April. As in this season, there is very little rainfall and is considered as the tourism season.

How to reach Wayanad

Wayanad is very well connected from all other cities of South India by roadways and railways. Kozhikode is the nearest railway station.

Maybe what the visitor finds most endearing about this quaint little hill station is its large tribal population of about fifty-strong tribes and its fascinating lifestyle. Travelers can stay and enjoy the thrills of life at the treetop houses and mud huts.

This ancient magnificent city now survives only in ruins. From the view of the ruins here, it seems natural that once upon a time there was a flourishing civilization in Hampi. There are more than five hundred monuments between the valleys and dunes. There are many buildings which include temples, palaces, cellars, water-ruins, old markets, royal pavilions, platforms, treasuries, etc.

 According to historians, Hampi was once called Kishkindha, in fact, from the 13th to 16th century the city prospered as the capital of the Vijayanagara kings. Hampi is an open museum for both tourists and pilgrims. Every turn of Hampi is amazing. Every monument holds a secret than it reveals.

Hampi is called a city of temples. Let’s know about some temples and sites that are worth visiting while Hampi and also included in the UNESCO world heritage site.

Virupaksha Temple

This temple of Hampi is dedicated to Lord Virupaksha, who is another form of Lord Shiva. Virupaksha Temple is a sacred place situated on the banks of the Tungabhadra River at Hampi in the state of Karnataka. Built during the seventh century, this temple was included in the UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its history and beautiful architecture. The temple has beautiful sculptures of many deities which reflect mythological stories related to them.

VITTHAL TEMPLE or VITHALA TEMPLE

The Vitthal temple is one of the most influential temples in Hampi. The Vitthal temple was built during the 16th century. In fact, this temple presents its rich architecture beautifully. Hampi has a famous stone chariot which is considered an iconic symbol of Hampi’s architecture. This temple has a large courtyard which is located in the center. It signifies the majesty of Vijayanagar and the glory of Kalavabhava.

HAMPI CHARIOT

The main attraction of the Vithala temple is its pillared walls and stone chariots. These pillars have a unique feature that can’t be found anywhere else. They are known as musical pillars because the music comes out of them when patted with love. The stone chariot is a wonderful piece of architecture. The temple has been carved in stone, which is in the shape of a chariot.

LAKSHMI NARASIMHA TEMPLE

Hampi Lakshmi Narasimha Temple or Ugra Narasimha Temple is made of large rock which is the tallest statue of Hampi. It is about 6.7 meters high.

SHIV LINGA: Bada Shivlinga

As the name indicates, Bada, the shiv linga stands at a height of 3m. This Shivlinga has been carved out from a single stone and one of the most attractive sites to visit during the Hampi tour.

The other places that are popular and worth demanding a visit are lotus palace, monkey temple, Hippie Island, Elephant stable, and many more archaeological sites are there.

To explore the world heritage site and ancient ruins of Hampi, winters from (October to February) is the best time to visit Hampi. Visiting during this time can lead a traveller to see the events of Hampi that including Vijaya Utsav, the largest celebration happening in Hampi.

Situated at a distance of 160 km south of Chennai Puducherry has been a colony of France since the early eighteenth century. It is a charming Indian city with a vibrant specimen of France’s cultural heritage and shelter beyond the sea. Puducherry is a union territory with other French destinations — Karaikal (Tamil Nadu), Mahe (Kerala), Yanam (Andhra Pradesh).

The specialty of this city is the confluence of well-planned city and French-Tamil architecture. The city is built on the model of the 18th century fortified seaside city of France ‘Bastide’.

Enriched with ocean and unique architecture, Pondicherry/Puducherry gives a pleasant feeling to the travelers visiting here. The entire city is built on a grid pattern and is known to have the most significant French influence. Many streets in the city have French names and houses made of colonial architecture offer a spectacular view to the travelers.

The city has four great beaches – Promenade Beach, Paradise Beach, Serenity Beach, and Auroville Beach which provide a new holiday experience to the visitors. Another major attraction of this place, Sri Aurobindo Ashram, is the famous ashram and yoga center of India. Sri Aurobindo founded the Aurobindo Ashram in 1926 to increase spiritual power away from the life of this race. People from all over the world come here in search of the spirit.

Auroville

Meera Alfassa (also known as Mother) created the Spiritual collaborate for Sri Aurobindo in 1968. Her only goal was that people from all over the world could come here and find peace. Conceived as the ‘Universal Town’, Auroville is an experimental township where people from across the world of all cultures and traditions come and live together in peace.

Puducherry is famous for its churches. There are 32 churches in Pondicherry. The names of churches such as Lady Angel Church, Duplex Church, Basilica of Sacred Heart of Jesus are counted among the older and important churches.

The old lighthouse built-in 1836 is the most popular landmark of Puducherry. This lighthouse is the center of attraction for tourists today.

French war memorial

Four pillars stand in commemoration of soldiers martyred in World War-1. A short distance from it is the Statue of Duplex, which was built in memory of Joseph Francosis.

Other places to visit in Puducherry are Rock Beach, Ouster Lake, Varadaraja Perumal Temple, Ouster Wetland and National Park, Meeran Mosque, Ananda Ranga Pillai Mansion, etc.

Also influenced by East and West culture, Puducherry finds unique items like handicrafts made of leather, pottery, hand-drawn paper, incense and old colonial furniture, etc.

Spirituals believed that place got its name after Kanya Devi, an avatar of Goddess Parvati, who wished to marry Lord Shiva and penance there but never married. Kanya Devi is now worshiped as a virgin goddess who blesses her devotees. Kumari Amman Temple (also known as Arulmigu Bhagavathy Amman Temple) is dedicated to Goddess Kanya Kumari and every year celebrations are held during Navratri in October.

Vivekananda Rock Memorial is the most iconic monument to be seen during the Kanyakumari visit. It is dedicated to the great philosopher Swami Vivekananda who used to meditate here. To reach the rock memorial, travellers have to take the ferry as it is surrounded by sea from all sides.

Another remarkable statue that attracts tourists is a towering statue of the great Tamil poet and philosopher Thiruvalluvar. It is 133 feet high and took 20 years to complete.

For the watchers of sunrise and sunset, Kanya Kumari is the best place as they can enjoy Sunrise and sunset both at the same time, particularly during full moon night.

It is considered as a beautiful Hindu pilgrim centre as three powerful water bodies meet here known to be Triveni Sangam. People believed a dip in the water will wash away all sins and provide liberation from the cycle of rebirth.

Apart from all the monuments and temples, Kanya Kumari is a destination where you can enjoy waterfalls. Thirparappu falls, the Courtallam Falls and the Olakaruvi falls are some of the waterfalls where tourists can enjoy their leisure time.

Travelers can visit Kanyakumari as it has a pleasant climate throughout the year due to its proximity to the sea.

The place has several scenic natural attractions which are enjoyed by its visitors and make it a popular romantic destination. Coaker’s Walk, Silver Cascade, and Kodai Lake are some of the places that are most liked and attracts the tourists.

Kodai Lake is a man-made lake situated at a distance of 3km from the Kodai bus stand. It is a star-shaped lake surrounded by Palani hills. Kodaikanal Lake is known for preserving the Kurinji Flower, which blooms only once in twelve years. Boat riding is chargeable here.

For the admirers of nature and shutterbugs, Coaker’s walk is the perfect place. It is a man-made one-kilometer long pathway from where the view of lush green valley and hills can be seen. It looks like having a glimpse of heaven on Earth.

Silver cascade waterfall is another charm that can make you spellbound. Falling from the height of 180ft, it is mesmerizing with its sheer strength and beauty.

Kodaikanal Pine forests are something that is different and splendid. The forest is covered with long pine trees that give a picturesque feel. Walking in this forest is rejuvenating for travelers.

Kodaikanal has several other tourist attractions like Bryant Park, Bear Shola Falls, Pillar Rocks, Devil’s kitchen, kukkal caves, Guna caves, pillar rocks, etc.

Being a hill station, its weather is quite moderate for the whole year but the winter season from October to March blankets the valley with a white mist that associates to form a panoramic visual that is incomparable to anything else you have ever seen.

Ooty, has a mild and favorable climate throughout the year. Due to its picturesque view and awe inspiring greenery, it’s a popular destination of couples for honeymoon. Known as ‘ Queen of Nilgiris’ for its splendid natural beauty, tea gardens , gurgling waterfalls and peaceful environment. Listed under UNESCO world heritage site, a toy train that runs from Mettupalayam to Ooty under Nilgiri Mountain railway is must to visit experience for tourists.

Other popular destinations such as, Doddabetta peak, (the highest point of South India) Ooty lake, Ooty Rose Garden, Thread Garden, Ooty botanical Garden, Emerald lake and many more sites are there which attracts tourists from all over the world.

Ooty is also the house of endangered Indian elephants, Bengal tigers, Indian Leopards and other species.

Ooty, is very well connected to major cities like Mysore, Chennai, Banglore and Coimbatore through every means of transport. As Ooty is having favorable climate throughout the year, so one can visit at any time during the year.

Munnar is also known as “Kashmir of South India”. Because of its picturesque beauty and peaceful nature, it is one stop destination of couples for honeymoon.

Munnar hills have a unique feature of getting blue once in 12 years because of presence of Neelakurinji flower which blooms once in twelve years attracting lot of tourists from all over the world.

Tourists can do adventurous trekking to Anaimudi, the highest peak in south India. Eravikulam National park and Salim Bird Sanctuary are the major attractions for the travelers where they can witness the endangered flora and fauna species like  Nilgiri Thar and the Neelakurinji. The other tourist attractions are Devikulam Lake; Kolukkumalai (the highest tea plantation in the country); the waterfalls.

Apart from tea gardens, Munnar is famous for Spices and chocolates too. One can have aromatic tea and spices at an affordable price here.

Munnar is well connected by means of every transport from major cities of south and the best time to visit the place is from June to September.

Rathas are in the shape of Chariot. There are five monolithic structures projecting above the beach, known as the Five Rathas or the Pandava Rathas. Biggest Ratha sculpture is of Dharamraja.

 Mandaps are known as cave temples used for social gatherings. They are square in shape and used as shrines. Varaha, Kotikal, dharamraja, Mahishasuramardini, Panchapandava mandapam, Koneri are some of the famous cave temples.

Structural temples were built from cut stones. These temples are dedicated to shiva and Vishnu. One of the oldest temple is shore temple as it is near to the shore. It is dedicated to the lord Shiva surrounding by his vehicle Nandi. Olakkanesvara temple and Mukundanayanar templeare other temples which have been ruined now and only builidings are there.

Rock reliefs are the carvings on rocks. ‘Descent of Ganges’ or  ‘Arjuna penance’ is the most significant and an open air rock relief. It is believed  to be Bagirath’s  penace to bring the Ganges to the earth. It is also one of the largest bas-relief works in the world.

Mahabalipuram is not only famous for its sculptures and ancient monuments, also famous for its sandy beaches and crafts. To see the ancient history remnants and sculptures, one should visit this historical place. It is very easy to reach this tourist place as it is near to Chennai and nearest air and rail transport is Chennai. To visit the place, climate is suitable throughout the year.