QUICK GETAWAY
FROM MUMBAI: CHINCHOLI MORACHI: 150 KMS, 3 HRS, 30 MINS, 27 DEGREES
About 47 km from Pune, Chincholi Morachi in Ahmednagar district has acquired renown as an open sanctuary for peacocks. On a rough count, about 2,500 survive in the wild. The villagers assert that the peacocks have been cared, looked after and fed for the past several generations. Take the kids along and let them watch as the national bird lives freely and without threat in this part of Maharashtra. Mornings and evenings are the best time to spot peacocks at close quarters as they tend to come near the houses in search of food. Since Chincholi Morachi in
Ahmednagar is still a rural village, a home stay is a good option. By Road: Drive through Lonavla to Talegaon Dabhaade then take the road to Chakan towards Chincholi Morachi. By Rail: Pune is the nearest railhead.
FROM DELHI: GWALIOR: 350 KMS, 6 HRS, 30 MINS, 28 DEGREES APPROX
Lying on the tip of Madhya Pradesh, Gwalior is a heritage city with some of the most beautiful architectural structures. Gwalior’s skyline is dominated by the massive and beautiful 15th century Gwalior Fort — the seat of many great dynasties that ruled from this city. Gwalior Fort is the only fort in India, where the influence of China style is evident in their architecture, emphasising the trade relations between India and China.
Gwalior has a strong cultural heritage with a history of some of India’s finest classical musicians claiming it as their home. Noted musicians include Tansen, vocalist Onkarnath Thakur (1897-1967) and sarod maestro Amjad Ali Khan and his forefathers. Tansen’s tomb is built in simple Mughal architectural style and Tansen Music Festival is held in the months of November and December. Also visit Jai Vilas Palace, the residence of the Scindia family. Man Mandir Palace built by Raj Man Singh Toma holds a light and sound show, ‘Son-et-lumiere’ in the evenings.
By Road: Get onto NH 2, then onto NH 3 and towards Tansen Road. By Rail: Gwalior station is situated in the heart of the city.
FROM BANGALORE: MADIKERI: 259 KMS, 5HRS, 30 MINS, 20 DEGREES APPROX
Misty hills, lush green forests that open out to acres of tea and coffee plantations, Madikeri in Coorg is a favourite for Bangaloreans looking to get a slice of weekend rest and relaxation. Aside from enjoying the natural beauty of the area, Madikeri is known for its old world charm. Visit Raja Seat, a small square mantapa in brick and mortar of four pillars bridged by arches. This spot was a favourite place of recreation for the Rajas and offers a commanding view of the cliffs and valleys to the west. Madikeri Fort is another historic spot that is worth the visit. Built by Mudduraja in the 17th century, it was reconstructed by Tipu Sultan followed by other Indian rulers and then the British. Check out the two life size masonry elephants and a church in the south-east corner. There
is a famous Lord Ganesha temple known as ‘Kote ganapathi’ near the main entrance of the fort.
By Road: Take the State Highway 17 (Bangalore - Mysore Highway), take a deviation just after the town of Srirangapatna to join State Highway 88. By Rail: Madikeri does not have a railway station. Nearest railheads are Kasaragod, Kannur and Thalassery.
ETTRAVEL 121108
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