Gokarna
Located 130 kms away from Margao, this small Karnataka town nestles four of India’s most pristine and secluded beaches. Om Beach, named after its Om-shaped sandy stretch, is the most happening. Since it’s the only one accessible by car, it’s a favourite with party-lovers. Kudle Beach and Half-Moon Beach lie on either side of Om Beach. They can be reached after a short hike over the surrounding hills, but the most convenient way to approach them is via a boat from Om Beach. The southern-most beach, Paradise Beach, is a small protected cove with abundant natural beauty but few restaurants and facilities. Gokarna also has an array of water sports facilities for banana boat rides, snorkelling and parasailing.
Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary
Spread over 834.16 sq km this wildlife sanctuary is the second largest in Karnataka. Characterised by steep slopes and deep river valleys and deciduous forests, the Park is a haven for the Black Panther, sambar, bison, Malabar giant squirrel, elephant, tiger, leopard, gaur, flying squirrel, mouse deer among other animals. The Park is located about 485 kilometers from Bangalore and trisected by tributaries of the Kali, Kaneri and Nagajhari Rivers.
5 interesting excursions to take in Kodaikanal
Kukkal Caves
This is one of the most interesting excursions from Kodaikanal. Located at a distance of about 40 km from the city, the journey will take you through thickly forested areas abounding with orchids and shoal trees.
Subrahmanya temple
Also referred to as the Karthikeya temple and the Palani temple, this place of worship is a major draw for tourists. Located about 65 km ahead of Kodaikanal, it is dedicated to Lord Subramanian.
Bryant Park
Named, conceptualised and landscaped after the British officer Glenn Bryant back in 1980, Bryant Park is a botanical garden located to the east of the Kodaikanal Lake.
Berijam Lake
Although it’s a bit of a trek (20 km) from the heart of Kodaikanal, Berijam lake warrants a visit for its spectacular surroundings and untouched beauty. While its more popular counterpart – the Kodaikanal Lake – is thronged by tourists, this is where you need to go if you prefer places that aren’t crowded and commercial.
Pillar Rocks
One of Kodaikanal’s most famous attractions, these three mammoth rock pillars stand shoulder-to-shoulder, looming 400-ft-high in the sky. Affording a bird’s eye view of the surrounding vista, these granite structures are located at a distance of about eight km from the lake tower, and encompass little hidden nooks and crannies within them, which are great to explore.
