Mahindra Homestays » Karnataka

Six great places for shopping in Bangalore

Mahindra Homestays — Mon, 15 Oct 2012 20:00:22 +0000

Bangalore is famous for its youthful energy, cosmopolitan crowd, great weather and international flavour. A modern city, this is the place to get your shopping in south India. If this is going to be your exit city, it is even better. You can optimise your baggage at the end of your trip and fill your bags with souvenirs and trinkets which represent the whole of the south.

We’ve picked out our five favourite places for shopping in Bangalore.

1. M.G Road
The most famous high street and the most famous landmark of Bangalore is M.G Road. Once the only place with exciting night life and branded showrooms, M.G Road still hasn’t lost its lustre with all the new areas opening up. Book shops like Gangaram and Bookworm have entertained and supplied travellers for years. You can also find a huge range of saree shops and places to eat here. Look out for Lake View for the best milk shakes and Cauvery Emporium for cheap to extremely expensive souvenirs from South India.

2. Brigade Road
Perpendicular to the main M.G Road is the other famous high street, Brigade Road. Modern showrooms like Nike, Adidas, Levis and Tommy Hilfiger flank each other. One of the first department stores of south Nilgiris is also located here. Brigade road also has a number of export reject shops with an extensive list of high-fashion brands at throw-away prices. A shopper’s dream come true, don’t miss this one.

3. Garuda Mall
One of the well established malls in the centre of the city, Garuda Mall, is easily accessible and is a great place to catch a good movie or get shopping. Mixes of Indian and International brands line the four storey mall. Though many other malls have sprung up recently, you will find this one the most convenient to get to.

4. Chickpet
One of the most famous shopping stops of Bangalore, Chickpet defines the quintessential ‘bazaar’ of India. Cows, stray dogs, huge shopping bags wielded by exhausted ladies and plenty of snacks shops are characteristic of this saree haven. Great deals and variety, will leave you spoilt for choice. Head here to buy a sari, you are sure to find your pick in the budget that you have planned. Be ready for some aggressive bargaining.

5. Fab India and Mzuri Sana
Indian cottons have always been a favourite for many travellers. Not only are they great to travel in within India, but also make for some exotic dressing back home. Pick up kurtas, tops and furnishings with the best Indian aesthetics, all in soft washed cotton. Stores like Fab India and Mzuri Sana have increasingly become popular with people visiting the city.

6. Levitate
Bangalore has been on a kitsch drive with the youth hooking back to Indian designs and prints. Levitate, the first of its kind, was started by biker Meghna Khanna and is a hit with the travellers. You can find alternative silver jewellery, bags, harem pants, boxers, curious and more in this tiny shop on 100 feet, Bangalore. You’ll find it at Annaswamy Mudaliar Road, Sivanchetti Gardens.

Related articles and links of interest
Bangalore destination guide
Things to do in Bangalore
Best places to enjoy night-life in India

Sightseeing in Mysore

Mahindra Homestays — Thu, 04 Oct 2012 20:00:43 +0000

One of the best towns in South India for history, culture and a grate range of attractions, Mysore in Karnataka is well worth a visit. Apart from its easy proximity from Bangalore, it also is a convenient add-on when visiting places like Coorg and Bandipur.

Mysore makes for a great one to two days stop to dive into Karnataka’s illustrious history. If you are planning to go in October do time your trip with the famous Mysore Dasara festivities which are held annually for 10 days.

This sightseeing in Mysore guide details the attractions, timings and entry fees to the most popular sights

Mysore Palace

The Mysore palace is an iconic building which defines the topography of this small town. The Wodeyar Kings rules from this famous palace, which attracts visitors from all over the world. It is recommended to take a government guide here to explain the history and important elements of the building. The Diwan-e-Khas and Durbar Hall are the key parts of the palace.

The palace looks magnificent when lit up which happens 7 pm and 8 pm on Sundays and also during public holidays. It is also fully lit up during the 10 days of Dasara celebrations.
Entry Fee: Rs 20/- (Adults) and Rs 10/- (Students)
Timings: 10 a.m to 5:30 p.m

Chamundi Hills

The legend goes that Chamundeshwari was responsible for slaying the demon Mahishasur after a bloody battle. Named after the Goddess, two ancient temples on a hill, Mahabaleshwar and the Chamundeshwari, lie above the town of Mysore. Largely a pilgrim spot, these are visited by thousands in a year. There are 1008 steps which lead to a temple dedicated to the Goddess. A statue of Nandi bull is erected after 700 steps. Go here for a great view of the city below if not for a religious trip. A return autorickshaw trip will cost about Rs 250/-.
Entry Fee: Nil
Sri Chamundeswari Temple Timings: 7am-2pm & 3.30-9pm
Chamundi Hills Timings: Sunrise to Sunset

Brindavan Gardens

Situated only 15kms from the city, the Krishna Raja Sagar Dam was built by Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV and completed with help from Sir. M. Vishwesharaya. The dam was also used to feed the Brindavan Gardens spread over a large area of 60 acres. The gardens are a favourite with visitors, especially in the evenings when the lit up dancing fountains come alive.
Entry Fee: Rs 10/- (Adults) and Rs 5/- (Children)
Timings: 6.30 a.m to 9.00 p.m. The illuminating timings are Monday – Friday: 6.30pm – 7.25pm.

Jaganmohan Palace and Art Gallery

Most of Mysore’s history revolves around the Wodeyar Kings. Personal and state memorabilia can be seen in the beautiful Jaganmohan Palace and Art Gallery. Ravi Verma and Roerich paintings are in plenty in the attached Jayachamerajendra Art Gallery. An enthralling set of rare musical instruments are displayed in the palace along with objects, artefacts and fineries of the Kings.
Entry Fee: Rs 20/- (Adults) and Rs 10/- (Students)
Timings: 10 a.m to 5:30 p.m

Mysore Dasara

The 10 day long festival in Mysore has gathered international acclaim over the years. October is the marked month for the celebrations that start with an elephant parade led by the ruling King, followed by dance and music cultural performances by various groups from across the state. With the growing popularity of the festival, the programmes are now charged with tickets and have elaborate well defined seating arrangements. More details can be found out on the official website.

It is recommended to check timings and entry fees for all attractions before setting out as these are subject to change. The entry fee for foreigners in many places is different from that for India nationals.

Photos of Coorg

Mahindra Homestays — Tue, 04 Sep 2012 19:30:38 +0000

Coorg (also known as Kodagu) is a photographers delight. Located in the Western Ghats of south-western Karnataka the region offers breathtaking views over misty hills, teak wood forests filled with exotic birds and lush green coffee plantations.

We’ve rounded up some of our favourite photos of Coorg that show off this stunning region. If you have any photos you would like to see included here then upload them to our Facebook page.

Tea Plantation

Just before sunrise at Thadiyandamol

Scenic viewpoint

Irupu Falls

Abbey Falls

Nagarahole National Park

Golden Temple

Namdroling Monastery

Thanks to the photographers who shared their images under Creative Commons licence. All images link back to the original source by way of credit.

Karnataka Cuisine and Pandi Curry Recipe

Mahindra Homestays — Wed, 25 Jul 2012 21:09:31 +0000

With Karnataka’s diverse topography, the food habits of different regions bring an interesting element to the state’s cuisines. With a vast coast line, rain forest areas and plains, Karnataka cuisine has a lot of influences. The bordering states of Maharashtra, Goa, Kerala and Andhra Pradesh also influence the cooking techniques and types of ingredients used.

Karnataka has many vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, often accompanied by rice. Popular dishes include Bisi bele bath, Jolada rotti, Ragi rotti, Akki rotti, Saaru, Idli, Vangi Bath, Khara Bath, Kesari Bath, Davanagere Benne Dosa, Ragi mudde and Uppittu. Variations of these can be experienced in different regions.

While some basic dishes are common to all regions it is the region specific delights that you should be looking for when travelling to the state. The three main areas which are sure to take you for a gastronomical ride are Mysore, Coorg and Bangalore.

COORG
Coorg is known for its copious amounts of alcohol and meat products in daily use. If you are foodie, this place is sure to delight you. Pandi Karri (Pork dish), Koli Saaru (Chicken dish), Meenu Saaru (Fish Dish) are dishes that you will encounter often. Coorgis often use traditional styles of cooking. Their love for food is enormous and one can see that in all local festivals, marriages and family events. Try the Kabadu dish which is eaten with the curries.

They also use bamboo shoot and mushrooms in their food which is seen sparingly in India. Try arriving in Coorg around the Kailpoldu festival when culinary skills are spruced up and every kitchen is pulsating with activity.

MYSORE
Mysore and surrounding areas is yet another region which is known for its fabulous food. The south Karnataka region emphasises more on staple grains like bajra and jowar. This region is known for its vegetarian dishes. Meals consist of Ragi mudde, Saaru, Rice and Yogurt. A salad called Kosambari (pictured below) which is prepared using simple ingredients such as lentils, green chillies and finely chopped coriander, and various Palyas (fried, boiled or sauteed spicy vegetables) are quite famous.

BANGALORE
Bangalore also lies in South Karnataka and traditionally serves up dishes like Mysore although this kind of food is fast disappearing from the house-holds. Being a cosmopolitan city, the dishes in Bangalore have a lot of modern infusion in the food creating some varied and unusual dishes.

Certain traditional foods however will always remain part of the Bangalore kitchens; namely Shenga chutney, mosaru, kempu and heavy use of vegetables.

PANDI (PORK) CURRY
This spicy pork curry is typical to Coorg. It is normally served with rice.

Ingredients:
1 Kg Pork (2 Lbs)
1tsp Turmeric power
1tsp Cumin Seeds
8-10 Small Onions or 2 big onions
10-15 cloves of Garlic
3-4 Green Chills
1/2 tsp Mustard seeds
2 tbs Cumin Power
Vinegar
Salt to taste

Preparation: After washing the pork well and draining all the water off it, marinate the pork for 10-15 minutes with salt, red chilly power or pepper and turmeric. While this is being done, blend the green chillies, onions, ginger and a few cumin seeds. After this, fry the cumin powder until it turns darkish brown, and then add mustard and the rest of the cumin seeds. Fry this for a few minutes. Now add the marinated pork to the blended onion mixture and cook for a while. Add the fried condiments and cook on low flame for a few minutes till the pork is cooked. Add vinegar to the dish and serve with rice.

Homestays offer fantastic home cooked cuisine for guests and hosts are happy to share recipes and even show you some of the cooking techniques.

Places in Coorg

Mahindra Homestays — Sun, 29 Apr 2012 22:54:42 +0000

Coorg is a popular hill station in Karnataka, especially with those seeking a weekend break from Bangalore. The lush green topography is a haven for wildlife, bubbling rivers offer white water rafting challenges and rolling hills with the scent of coffee wafting through them are perfect for walking and trekking.

Coorg or Kodagu is a fairly vast district and has places tucked away which are worth seeing. Here is a list of places in Coorg to visit.

Madikeri
Madikeri is one of the most popular places in Coorg to base yourself in. The largest town of Coorg, it is situated in the North of the district and is the hub for many visitors. There are plenty of sight-seeing opportunities near Madikeri like the Madikeri Fort, Raja’s Seat, Raja’s Tomb, Omkareshwara temple and the Nisargadhama Forest in the town. A good place to visit the local eating joints for some typical Coorgi food.
Getting There – Madikeri is well connected to all maijor transport hubs by local buses and cabs.

Abbi (Abby) and Iruppu Falls
Often spoken about in one breath, the Abbi and Iruppu Falls are near Madikeri. Gushing with water, especially in the monsoons, these are great picnic spots. Easy trekking trails run from the falls and those interested can veer off into the wilderness. Ensure that you watch out for leeches in the rains though.
Getting There – Regular buses run from Madikeri and Gonikoppal to these falls.

Somwarpet
Many people miss this haven of coffee and spices due to the distance from Madikeri. Somwarpet is in the North East part of the district and takes about two hours to reach from Madikeri. Cardamom, coffee, peppers, oranges, ginger, and other vegetables grow extensively here. Somwarpet lies close to the third highest peak in Coorg after Tadiyandamol and Brahmagiri. It is known as Kotebetta and is a delight for trekkers. The other things to see here are Malemalleshwara Betta and the Beelur Gold Club.
Getting There – 42 kms from Madikeri, drive on the almost smooth roads in close to two hours or take us bus from the main stand at Madikeri.

Bylakuppe
The largest Tibetan settlement in South of India, Bylakuppe is spread over four regions just before Coorg. If driving from Bangalore, Bylakuppe is reached just before hitting Kushalnagar. There are a few places to stay here. Most people make a short stop, but it’s worth your while to stay for a night. See the young monks solemnly move about in the large courtyard of the Namdroling Monastery. Many visitors go there only in the mornings, but the lit up monastery in the evening is even more spectacular. Oil lamps are lit slowly through the evening, as monks line up to light the ritualistic lamp after dark.
Getting There – Bylakuppe is 40 kms from Madikeri, around a two hour drive or buses are available from the main stand at Madikeri.

Bhagamandala & Telecauvery
The Cauvery is one of the largest rivers in Karnataka and the convergence of a plethora of bio-diversity and activities. A touch of Kerala can be seen at Bhagamandala and Telecauvery with an ancient temple with a copper roof. Also known as Triveni Sangam, the spot is a semi religious destination, especially in mid October. Steps from here lead to the Brahamagiri Peak from here are essential to climb to get a panoramic view of the lush district.
Getting There – Over an hour’s drive from Madikeri, this is well connected by cabs and buses.

Nagarhole National Park
Nagarhole National Park is en-route from Bangalore. One of the most esteemed game parks in India, Nagarhole is a must for wildlife enthusiasts visiting the South of India. Summers is the best time to visit, when animals roam more freely in search of water. A couple of days make ideal time to soak in the verdant surroundings and make multiple trips into the jungle. These are organised by the government, as private vehicles are restricted to go in.
Getting There – Nagarhole is well connected to Mysore and Madikeri by buses or even by cab.

There are many places in Coorg to explore, check out our Coorg homestay collection to find a base to explore this region from. If you would like to visit Coorg contact our reservations team who will be happy to help you with your plans.

Thanks to the photographers who shared their images under Creative Commons licence. All images link back to the original source by way of credit.

The spectacular Mysore Palace

Mahindra Homestays — Thu, 24 Nov 2011 03:00:08 +0000

With the spectacular Mysore Palace and many smaller glorious structures it is only appropriate that Mysore in the Southern state of Karnataka is known as the City of Palaces. Our visitors guide gives you all the details you need to plan your sightseeing.

A trip to the city of Mysore gives travellers the chance to visit the glorious past of Tipu Sultan and his father Hyder Ali, who put up a great fight against the British rule and were responsible for laying the foundation of places like Bangalore and Mysore over four decades. As the seat of power for the father-son duo and then later the Wodeyar King, Mysore is a historian’s delight.

Apart from the Jaganmohana Palace, the Jayalakshmi Vilas, Lalitha Mahal, Chamundeshwari Temple and St. Philomena’s Church, the biggest attraction of the Mysore is the Ambavilas Palace or better known as the Mysore Palace.

How to get there
The city of Mysore is about 4 hours from Bangalore and can be accessed by road and rail conveniently. Mysore also has its own airport now but has limited flights at the moment.

About the Palace
Standing just after Taj Mahal in statistics, the palace has seen over 2.7 million visitors. It serves as the residential quarters of the erstwhile royal family, Wodeyars. The first palace of the royal family was built in the 14th century but was demolished and subsequently rebuilt & expanded many times over till 1940. The Mysore palace saw a lot of restructuring due to inevitable circumstances like being struck by lightning, a fire in the later years and of course by Tipu Sultan. The current style of the palace is shaped by British architect, Henry Irwin, who was commissioned by Maharani Vani Vilas Sannidhna.

Following the Indo-Saracenic architectural style, the building brings together Hindu, Muslim, Rajput, and Gothic styles of architecture. The palace is a three storied structure built of gray granite with deep pink marble. An impressive sculpture of Gajalakshmi, the goddess of wealth, prosperity, good luck, and abundance with her elephants stands on the central arch of the palace.

Dussehra
Dusherra is the most important festival of the city of Mysore, and the palace becomes a focal point of all cultural activities that are showcased on this day. The ten day festival is presided over by the King. On the tenth day of Vijaya Dashami, an extensive parade with elephants and local floats passes through a well guarded city. The festival commemorates the victory of Goddess Durga over the demon, Mahishasur.

Entry Fee
International visitors are charged Rs 200 while national tourists have to pay an entry fee of Rs 20/-. Cameras are not allowed inside, but you can capture the grand structure from the gates. (This information is subject to change).

Opening Times and Days
The palace is open on all days from 10.00 a.m to 5.30 p.m. On Sundays, national holidays and Dusherra the palace is beautifully lit with strings of light bulbs. The timing of the lit palace is between 7.00 p.m and 8.00 p.m (This information is subject to change).

Best time to Visit
October through February is a good time to visit Karnataka. If planning in October, don’t miss to catch the Dusherra festival.

If you would like your next trip to include some of India’s most famous historic monuments then get in touch and we can help you plan a fantastic itinerary.

Best places to enjoy India nightlife

Mahindra Homestays — Wed, 14 Sep 2011 22:45:40 +0000

After battling whole new stimuli of smells, sounds and sights of India, one can do with a break at the end of travelling to temples and monuments. Most visitors pass through or enter India through the major metros, where most of the night life exists. India is not counted as one of the top party destinations, but its colonial past has left some remnants of clubs and nightlife. We pick out the top seven spots for a fun urban evening where you can enjoy India nightlife!

1. Mumbai
The vibrant city of Mumbai is certainly one of the few destinations in India, which can claim to have nightlife at all. Safe for women to travel even late at night, Mumbai has a burgeoning pub and live gigs culture. Some of the places that one must visit are Totos in Bandra for an old school feel of grabbing a beer with a friend, amidst loud thumping music from the 70s and 80s. Bandra has a bustling nightlife with a few pubs strewn in the area. This is probably where one can hop from one place to another; else the distances in Mumbai are long to traverse in the middle of the night. Blue Frog and Jazz by the Bay are some other options for live gigs and karaoke nights. Stand up Comedy is high on the list of things to do for the younger generation. Catch some fresh Indian talent at the Comedy Store and Cafe Goa, and some alcohol to go along with.

2. Goa
Goa has always been the destination of deliverance where nightlife spots are concerned. Usually when the season in bustling with foreign internationals, so are the party spots of Goa. This is between October to March. For the rest of the year, it is not worth your while to go looking for a spectacular nightlife here. While Titos and Mambos were the stalwarts of nightlife for many years, now newer names like Butter Lounge and Shiros rule the roost. On Saturday night, join the party goers at Anjuna Beach to catch some trance and psychedelic music. Image credit by Berno

3. Delhi
Apart from the mainstream drink and dance places in Delhi, there is a whole new breed of underground music artistes who are bringing a fresh dimension for people who always want to be surprised. Catch B.L.O.T, Sifar and others who are hitting some new genres in Delhi. Shalom, Djinns, Mirage, Sahara, Mezz and Ministry of Sound are some places where you can catch some action on the music and dance scene in Delhi. Be careful as to be escorted by known people only and book your cab ahead if everyone in the group is drinking.

4. Bangalore
With a legacy of being the ‘beer and pub’ city of the country, Bangalore might have lost some lustre where the nightlife is concerned, but its easy paced fun is contagious. Still a great place to get a beer and enjoy the weather, Bangalore has a number of places to enjoy the evenings, except that one must wrap up by 11.30 p.m Jayamahal Palace for a slice of royalty, 13^th floor for the old timers and Toit, the latest addition, are all great places to catch up with friends. Places like Dewers, the first pub of Bangalore, are sorely missed by the locals. Another great pub for which many eulogies have been written but it still appeals to many, is Pecos. Known for its esoteric choice of music with jazz and blues, people still like Pecos for its impressive collection of cassettes. Try another classic place called Styx for some heavy metal. Though dancing is not allowed in Bangalore, Mynt is the only reasonable place where one can shake a leg. The central M.G Road area is known to have over 40 pubs in a radius of 1 kilometre.

5. Chennai
Unlike its image of a largely middle-class lifestyle, Chennai’s nightlife has been on an upswing for the last 5 years or so. Names like Dublin, Zara (an old time favourite), Hell Freezes Over, Bikes and Barrels and Geoffrey’s are names the young lot reckon with. Be at any of these for a fun filled evening.

6. Hyderabad
10 Downing Street, Bottles and Chimneys, Touch, Liquids, N, Ahala, Excess and Torque are some of the places which are worth your while in the ever growing pub scene of Hyderabad. The music sometimes can be a disappointment, but the number and variety of places in Hyderabad that make the nightlife more exciting, are in plenty. Try some ‘Famous’ ice-cream after you are done for the night.

7. Varkala
A surprise entry on the nightlife sector, but Varkala certainly owns a special spot here! The calm beaches on the edge of a cliff are the perfect backdrop for a couple of drinks in the months of October to March.

If you would like your next trip to include some of our top picks for India nightlife then get in touch and we can help you plan a fantastic itinerary.

For accommodation in India take a look at our homestay collection. Your hosts will be happy to help you find the best places locally for a good night out!

Things to do in Mysore

Mahindra Homestays — Fri, 29 Jul 2011 01:22:09 +0000

Replete with history, this erstwhile Kingdom of Tipu Sultan still promises a royal experience and the opportunity to relive the glorious past of Karnataka. If visiting the South of India, there are lots of things to do in Mysore! Starting from Bangalore, here’s what you can do on a weekend break in Mysore!

1. Roll into Mysore
If travelling from Bangalore, try the train to Mysore! Why? Because this is where you get to mingle with the spirit of the place – the co-travellers, the food vendors and the hustle-bustle is sure to give you a more intimate experience. There is a huge assortment of 21 trains that ply on the route for your convenience. It is also a better way to spend 3 hours in the train than on the road with more traffic!

2. Palace by Night
Predictably put but this one is sure to make your trip worthwhile. Incidentally Mysore is also called the ‘City of Palaces’, and houses one of the most famous monuments in India, after Taj Mahal. The 1912 structure built by the Wodeyars is a wonder made out of white marble, fine gray granite and deep pink granite. There is an entry fee to go inside and photography is prohibited, but you can get a picture from the outside. The palace is lit beautifully every night and is sight which is sure to be etched in your memory making it one of the top things to do in Mysore! Try and visit during the Dusherra festival in October when the King leads a parade on caparisoned elephants and the whole town comes alive with music and dance performances of Karnataka.

3. Market Mania at Devaraja
A photographer’s delight, the Mysore Devaraja market is heady mix of sound, smell and colours! Flowers, idols, street food, vegetables and more line the street. A treat for the lenses and senses, this one is great in the morning hours!

4. Filling Station
The famous Vinayaka Mylari is where you would want to be for breakfast or lunch. The set up is decades old and has a host of veteran go-ers who line up for crisp dosas and idlis each morning! You cannot get more authentic food, so add this to the list!

5. For the Artist in You
The royalty of Mysore was known to patronize many artists and local skills. Taking a leaf from the lineage, the town still imbibes a discretionary taste for art. This can be experiences at the Jayachamerajendra Art Gallery. Built in 1861, the gallery houses memorabilia from the past – rare instruments, Japanese art, paintings by Ravi Varma and regal artefacts.

6. Chamnudeshwari Temple
One of the more noted places to see, Sri Chamnudeshwari Temple sits atop the namesake Chamundi Hill at a height of over 1000 meters. It will easily take you half a day to visit and come back. Regular autorikshaws ply from the town or alternatively you can take the local bus or a cab.

7. Brindavan Gardens
This huge stretch of neatly manicured gardens with fountains provide a lush respite during the warm months in Mysore. The gardens are about half an hour away from the city.

8. Silk Factory
Mysore and the adjoining region is known was silk breeding and weaving. In fact, if you drive from Bangalore, you can see the silk worms on concentric mats being bred for silk making. A state run silk factory is open for visitors where you can also pick up saris and materials.

9. Rail Museum
Mysore can safely boast of an impressive collection of railway engines and more rail paraphernalia. The Rail museum is a good one for children for an educative and fun experience.

10. The Craft Museum
Mysore has an extensive University campus which also houses the Crafts Museum where a plethora of local art and craft is on display. While the Cauvery shop in town might be more suitable to shop for souvenirs, visit the museum to know more about the famous wooden inlay work and more.

If you would like to try out some of our things to do in Mysore for yourself contact our reservations team who will be happy to help you plan a trip. Check out our Karnataka homestay selection.

Best Monsoon Destinations of India – Head Westward!

Mahindra Homestays — Thu, 07 Jul 2011 21:34:01 +0000

As the first shower of the season hits the coastal towns of India, off-beat traveller start planning a monsoon holiday. Not inhibited by clouds or even water wading moments, travelling during the Indian monsoons can be an invigorating experience. There is nothing better than a rain-washed, lush country side and of course discounted rates for many destinations. We take you through some of the best monsoon destinations in India and encourage you to head west!

Goa in monsoon season
Known for its sprawling beaches, an erstwhile legacy of hippy love and an alternative style made to fit, here’s Goa in a whole new light. There is such a distinct change in the environs of Goa between the hot summer months and the cloudy monsoons that it is even worth visiting twice in a year!

For those who want to feel the drizzle on their faces and have a different rendezvous with the sea, Goa should be on your list. While it rains ensure that you have a warm comfortable bed and some great conversation to bank on. Then take your weather beaten umbrella to the Vagator beach for a vantage view point at the Thallasa Greek Restaurant or sit at Fort Aguada to see the water from the skies and sea, mingle in a turbulent mess!

Travelling during the monsoon season is a great time to mix with the locals during some of the lesser known festivals. Bonderam is one such festival, which is specific to Divar Island, off Old Goa. To commemorate old battles fought, young boys and girls re-enact the times in costumes. Don’t miss their mock missiles made of berries and weapons of bamboos. The festival ends with a parade which has everyone joining in the merriment.

The monsoon season is also a good time to explore the wildlife of Goa. Take in the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, which is is not too far from Usgaon. Alternatively, just off Canacona, the Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary is a great place to spot wild boar, langurs, bisons and plenty of avian life. Watch out for the leeches and be sure to carry some sturdy boots.

Kerala in monsoon season
The Western Coast remains one of greenest and freshest at this time, so Kerala should definitely be on the list. Depart from the coast onto the Northern and Western regions of the state. The Kasargod area still remains un-tread upon and of course Wayanad is an established getaway for the rains. While in Wayanad, see if you can catch the Splash Carnival, a Kerala Government endeavour where cultural programmes, indoor and outdoor games, and variety of competitions await travellers.

Maharashtra in monsoon season
Wander about on the Western Coast of the country and the delights don’t stop. For all of you who want to get out of jammed Mumbai roads in the thick of the monsoons, all you need to do is head out a short distance away. In Maharashtra take your pick from short hikes or long stays at Matheran, the Kondana and Kanheri Caves or just plunge into the frothy waters for a rafting trip.

Karnataka in monsoon season
Likewise, as you keep heading northwards, coastal Karnataka gets its fair share of monsoon magic in places like Dandeli and the Brahamgiri ranges. Apart from the fact that this time of the year is rather cooler and free of tourists the monsoon months also make many places affordable.

So pack your flip-flops and a sturdy umbrella and head out to towards the West coast of India.

If you would like to travel in India during the monsoon season contact our reservations team who will be happy to help you with your plans. There is currently 50% discount on selected homestays so curl up with a book, listen to fascinating stories from your hosts and enjoy delicious home cooked food while you wait for a break in the rain to explore the countryside at it’s lushest best!

White water river rafting in Coorg

Mahindra Homestays — Sun, 03 Jul 2011 20:04:12 +0000

The hill station of Coorg is best known for being a cool respite during the hot summer months, where visitors can relax amidst colourful scenery, wooded slopes and beautiful undulating landscapes. The start of the monsoon season brings a new opportunity to the region for those seeking adventure, with the chance to try some exciting white water river rafting in Coorg.

Between the months of July and October visitors can experience the rush of adrenaline from a Coorg white water rafting adventure. Its a lot of fun, but at the same time its totally safe. Trained man power will assist the beginners in rafting and safety equipments like life jackets and helmets are provided and mandatory to use.

The rafting lasts about two to three hours depending on the speed of river flow. During this time you can expect to to experience about five or six rapids which are a memorable experience.

River rafting in Coorg is a must in the monsoon season. Outside of the monsoon there are still opportunities to try out still water rafting but to experience the river at it’s best the white water rafting experience is highly recommended.

White water rafting can be arranged for you at the Eco Habitat homestay. In an idyllic farm like setting two charming villas offer comfortable and private accommodation for guests.

If you are interested in white water river rafting in Coorg yourself then our reservations team can help you plan a trip. Get in touch to find out more!