The eagerly
awaited summer holidays are here. You have a solid two months at your disposal
to have a good time and recharge your batteries until June, when schools
reopen.
Here is a list of
places you can visit. They are not too far from Bengaluru and make great
destinations for a great short getaway or a day trip.
Let us begin.
Buckle your seatbelts for the fun ride.
Nandi Hills: Located a handy 35 km from
Bengaluru and at 4500 ft above sea level, Nandi Hills are an ideal getaway if
you want to experience spirituality, nature, history - all in one place. The
ancient stone temples perched on the top of the hill inspire awe and devotion,
while a mere sight of 'Tipu's Drop' where prisoners were pushed down as a
punishment, makes your jaws drop. The well-looked after botanical gardens
soothes your soul. The restaurant 'Mayura', located on the edge of the cliff,
offers a panoramic view of the landscape all the way to Bengaluru.
Mysuru: If any place in India qualifies for
a visit based on a single criterion, Mysuru would be a natural choice. This
cultural capital of Karnataka ranks in the list of top 5 cleanest cities in
India. The palace and temple circuits provide a glimpse of the royal past,
while the well-stocked Zoo keeps you engaged on a lazy afternoon. Brindavan
Gardens is a favourite with tourists and film folk alike. Mysuru enjoys a
salubrious climate throughout the year. The pleasant ride along the expressway
connecting Bengaluru and Mysuru is one more reason for you to plan a trip.
Mangaluru: Zoom along the verdant agricultural
heartland of karnataka, negotiate the winding ride down the green Shiradi Ghat.
Mangaluru is home to a number of religious and ethnic communities with each one
of them boasting of a dish that is fit for an emperor. Drinking plenty of
tender coconut water to keep yourself hydrated is recommended for the
non-natives. Beaches are clean and unspoilt with a few of them offering boat
rides and adventure sports. Take time to visit the nature park Pilikula
Nisargadhama which is home to big cats, reptiles, and exotic plants.
Coorg: Land in Madikeri and head to
Dubare, the elephant-capturing and training camp, followed by a trip to
Nagarahole National Park which offers you a chance to go on wildlife safaris.
Talakaveri is where the River Kaveri originates. Abbey Falls, a small but
scenic waterfall, is a short distance away from Madikeri. The Tibetan Buddhist
Golden Temple serves the spiritual needs of the enterprising Tibetan community
in exile in India.
Shivamogga: Located 275 km from Bangalore, the
city boasts of wide, good roads, and well maintained public parks. Mandagadde
Bird Sanctuary is a place of tranquility with the river Tunga flowing gently by
and is dotted with half submerged trees, upon which our feathered friends from
all over the world have built their nests. Gajanur village is an interesting
place for its elephant training camp. Tyavarekoppa Lion and Tiger Safari is a
great experience.
Needless to say,
traveling in a group makes for great fun. Pick up the phone and call up family
and friends.
We wish you a
happy and safe journey. Have a great time. You can share your experience with
us when the school reopens in June.