Car Rental-What's best

List of Rental car agencies:
Alamo

Fox
Underage fee: 15/day (for midsize), $20/day (for fullsize)
Additional driver: free
Collision damage waiver: $9
Liability: $11

Budget


Dollar
Underage fee: $20/day
Additional Driver: free
$5 transportation fee
Uninsured motorist protection: $6/day
Collision damage waiver:

Thrifty
Underage fee: $25/day
Collision damage waiver: $9/day (midsize); $15/day (full-size)

Enterprise
National
Hertz
Avis
Payless

Discounts
Avis: S027300 5-10% off in the USA
Hertz:

• One car class upgrade (Class C, D, F) in the U.S. and Canada - PC# 934592
• $10 off a weekly rental (Class C, D, F, G or L) - PC# 934581
• Up to $15 off a weekend rental (Class C, D, F, G, L, R) - PC# 934570
• Free Child Seat - PC# 934566

Make your reservation:

• By Phone: (800) 654-2210 and mention the appropriate PC# and your CDP# 1464024
• Online: http://www.hertzs.com and enter the appropriate PC# and your CDP# 1464024

Visit Andaman

Andaman

Official Site

http://tourism.andaman.nic.in/

Contact : General Manager, ANIIDCO,P.B. No.180, VIKAS BHAWAN, Port Blair

Phone : 03192 - 32098, 32207, 32380

Fax : 03192 -35098, 32702

E-mail : aniidco@vsnl.com
SmartAsia.com site

Reviews

http://www.mouthshut.com/read.php?cid=925718

Transportation
Chennai - Port Blair by Flight

Books:

Vraman Sangi- All India Travel Companion of Asia Publishing Company

Flight details:

From Chennai (MAA) to Port Blair (IXZ)

Indian Airlines, Jet Airways (No tkts available online on Nov 17^th), Alliance Air, East-West Airways (T, Th, Sa)

Rs. 8500 one-way; should cost Rs. 35,000 for 2 ppl 2 way

Flights need to be booked 3-4 months in advance!

Internal transportation no problems: Autos, taxis available; even motorcycle available for hire (but I have no license currently)

Hotel

Megapode nest, Hornbill nest, Bay island, Sinclairs, Peerless Inn near Carbon?s cove beach in Port Blair, Andaman teal House

Dolphin Yatri Niwas or other hotels at Havelock Island, 1 day; deluxe cruise to Havelock Island

Cost: Rs.1000-1500 for A/C room. Non-A/C should be cheaper.

Food

Veggie: Amigos recommended (more expensive since everything is imported from mailand)

Internal Travel
A&N Tourism site-link for tours & travels
Link with some details on travel
Another link with more info

Itinerary

Calls: ** Country code ++91 (India) STD code 03192 (Port Blair/Andamans)

Thursday, Nov 18^th 2004

morning-fly to Port Blair
Bumpy air-pockets during flying reported.

FLIGHT  Jet Airways - 9W613 Thu  18 NOV 2004

Departs:  09:45 Chennai Arpt(MAA)

Arrives:  11:55 Port Blair Arpt(IXZ)

Status:  Confirmed for Economy                   class

Conf Nbr for Jet Airways - EZTDVY

Service:

Departure Terminal D

Boeing 737  Journey Time 2:10

Breakfast  

Check-in to Andaman Teal House, Delanipur, Port Blair (depends on check-in time, think we should be ok): Non-A/C DB: Rs.400; 232642, 234060, 234061
2 days stay here

Conducted tour by Directorate of Tourism at 3:00 PM-Booking at Andaman Teal House, Delanipur. **Phone: 32642/34060/34061;

Chidiya Tapu (mangroves?) Sylvan sands beach and sun set view point

Bus

100/-

1500 hrs.

Friday, Nov 19^th

Continue stay at Andaman Teal House

Vandoor (Wandoor-29 km from Port Blair)/ Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park
Conducted tour by Directorate of Tourism-Booking at Andaman Teal House, Delanipur. **Phone: 32642/34060/34061

MG Marine National Park, Wandoor

Bus

100/-

Daily 0830 hrs.

Bus from Port Blair to Wandoor: 1-1/2 hr; last bus at 7:00 PM; scooter (rented) also possible
marine life/corals in glass-bottomed boat; snorkelling, scuba-diving possible; Guess can kayak or canoe as well...

Saturday, Nov 20^{th
Check out of Andaman Teal House.}

Take bus to Rangat via road (170 km, sea: 90 km by Andaman Trunk Road- 6 hours) through tropical rain forest (enroute: Panchavati waterfall and Amkunj beach) to Cutbert Bay Beach-Turtle nesting ground Buses leave between 4:30 AM-11:30 AM from Central Bus Stand, Port Blair near Aberdeen Bazaar

Stay at Hawksbill Nest, NAC DB Rs.400:

Hawksbill Nest Cutbert Bay, Rangat

AC D/B NAC D/B Dormitory

Rs. 600/- Rs. 400/- Rs. 500/- **

June to Sept 25%

279022

Sunday, Nov 21^st

Check out of Hotel
Deluxe cruise (Normal cruise takes longer-to be avoided) or Jet boat (BOOK EARLY-ferry) to Havelock Island from Rangat

Contact: the Directorate of Shipping Services, Port Blair Tel: 32528/34299/31794

Stay there at Dolphin Yatri Niwas (Dolphin Resort).

Dolphin Resort Havelock Island

VIP Cottage D/B Deluxe Semi Deluxe

Rs. 1500/- Rs. 1000/- Rs. 500/-

June to Sept 25%

282411 Fax: 282444

Monday, Nov 22^nd

Check out of Hotel.

Back to Port Blair (10:00 AM to 1:00 PM)

Flexible options, most probably: Water Sports Complex

Water Sports Complex & Gandhi Park

Bus

Rs. 50/-

1500 hrs.

To Corbyn's Cove: Taxi or Auto for Rs.50? (Buses don't seem to be available)

Stay at Hornbill Nest Resort Plan for Rs.800 (ask for Sea-Front room if price not more):

Hornbill Nest Resort Plan

Carbyn's Cove, Port Blair

246042 244449 233161(F)

AC DB Suite Rs.2,500 AC DB Rs.1,250 NAC DB Rs.800 NAC Four Bed Rs.1,200 Extra Bed Rs.300

hornbillresort @rediffmail.com

Alternately, would like to stay at Peerless if Non-A/C cheaper rooms available (Rs.2600 for DB/AC?):

Peerless Beach Resort

Carbyn's Cove, P/Blair

233461-64 240201-03 233463(F)

AC SB Rs.2,900(A.P) AC SB Rs.2,575(M.A.P) AC SB Rs.2,250(C.P) Rs.4,500(Cottages) AC DB Rs.4,950(A.P) AC DB Rs.3,650(C.P) AC DB Rs.4,300(M.A.P) AC DB Rs.2600 to Rs.3000 (E.P)

ppbeachin @sancharnet.in

Tuesday, Nov 23^{rd
Back to Port Blair airport.}

FLIGHT  Jet Airways - 9W614 Tue  23 NOV 2004

Departs:  12:30 Port Blair Arpt(IXZ)

Arrives:  14:30 Chennai Arpt(MAA)

Status:  Confirmed for Economy                   class

Conf Nbr for Jet Airways - EZTDVY

Service:

Arrival Terminal D

Boeing 737  Journey Time 2:00

Lunch  

Back to Chennai

SKIP

Cellular jail (sound and light show) and City tour, Mini Zoo (@Hadoo), Museums, Ross Island

OR:

Wandoor ? Jolly Buoy *

By boat-private agencies

125/- + Rs.15 park entry

Daily 1000 hrs, returns 5 PM About 2 hrs journey, leaving less than 3 hrs for reefs but supposedly worth it

(Skip: (Red Skin/Cinque-Better to investigate and go during Low Tide) by Ferry or Jet Boat)

Skip-Forest Guest House at Mt.Harriet, Barren Island

Mount Harriet

Bus

150/- 75/-

Daily 0830 hrs.

to Mayabunder (242 km by Road, 136 km by sea) to Karmatang beach (Turtle nesting ground); steamer ride through Mangroves; Skip: Avis Island

(Better to skip Ross Island)
Contact: Swiftlet Nest guest house of the Directorate of Tourism (Tel: 73495)

(For information only: from Phoenix Bay Jetty/Chatham Jetty, Port Blair to Havelock island(57 km NE of Port Blair) (Radhanagar beach/forests near beach)
A/C speed boat: 7:00 AM-9:30 AM)

1. Cellular Jail (Sound & Light show)
2. Harbour cruise to Jolly Buoy(?), Viper Island, Ross Island (Deers & Peacocks in island) , Coral Island?) organized by Tourism Dept
3. Mt.Harriet

SKIP: Snake Island near Corbyn's Cove
Guided tour by bus:

Corbyn?s Cove Beach

Bus

50/-

1700 hrs.

Megapode Nest at Port Blair (Rs.1300)?

2.

Megapode Nest

Standard Room Double Occupancy Single Occupancy Deluxe Room Double Occupancy Single Occupancy Nicobari Cottage Extra bed

Existing Rates 1300/- 1000/- 1600/- 1200/- 1800/- 350/-

Rates from 1st Oct.2004 1400/- 1000/- 1600/- 1200/- 2000/- 350/-

a

232076 232207

How to accommodate?
Snake Island/Andaman Water Sports complex
http://www.eholidaysindia.com/havelock.htm
Trek to Madhuban (Natural Trek) to Mt. Harriet?
to Corbyn's cove-4 km from airport (/Gandhi park?)
Active volcano at Barren Island?

Tour South India in Winter

OPTION 1:
Andaman:

Chennai - Port Blair by Flight
to Chidiya Tapu (Bird island) with mangroves & beach
to Corbyn's cove
http://www.eholidaysindia.com/havelock.htm
to Rangat via road through tropical rain forest to Cutbert Bay Beach-Turtle

nesting ground
to Mayabunder to Karmatang beach; steamer ride through Mangroves; Skip: Avis

Island
SKIP: to Havelock Island (Radhanagar beach/forests near beach)
to Wandoor/Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park (Red Skin/Jolly Buoy/Cinque),

marine life/corals in glass-bottomed boat; snorkelling possible
Go to Mt Harriet; trek to Madhuban (natural trek) to Corbyn's cove beach
Where is coral island, Ross Island?
Harbour cruise at Viper Island?

Guess can kayak or canoe as well...

OPTION 2:
Lakshadweep:
Need one night in Cochin to get permit
Food mainly non-veg

Fly to Agatti-fibreglass boats, kayaking, snorkelling, canoeing
Bangaram,Kadmat & other islands
kavaratti (glass bottomed boat, canoeing, kayaking, snorkelling)
Minicoy (close to Maldives)

Option 3:
Mainland options:
After Kumarakom-Vembanad lake, evening visit to Pathiramanal (birds)
SKIP: Mararkulam-Marari Beach
SKIP: Silent Valley national park near Palakkad
to Periyar,Thekkady http://www.mouthshut.com/readreview/39308.html -through mountains, water falls, spice plantations;

tiger/wild elephants, boat safari, birds/trees/flowers
Munnar & surrounding forests, Rajamali-Erivakulam national park, enroute:

Cheeyyappara Waterfalls, Marayoor Sandalwood trees
Skip: Varkala, Kovalam-beaches
to Vythiri en-route to Ooty-tree house
Oothagamandalam (Places of interest: Botanical Gardens, Tiger Hill, Dodabetta
Peak, Valley View Lake, Wilson Fish Farm, St. Stephen Church, Marlimund Lake,
Wenlock Downs, Avalanche, Elk Hill, Kalhatti Falls, Snowdon, Glen Morgen.)

(Excursions: Wellingtion, Kotagiri, Madumalai Wildlife Sanctuary- http://www.mouthshut.com/readreview/61445-1.html , Coonoor,
Bandipur Wildlife Sanctuary http://www.mouthshut.com/readreview/61490-1.html )

Singapore Airlines-Bangalore

Bangalore
City Office
Address:
Park View, 17 Curve Road Near Queens Circle, Tasker Town, Bangalore 560051
Operating Hours:
Monday to Saturday - 0915 hours to 1745 hours(LT)
Tel:
+91 80 22867999 (Economy Class)
+91 80 22867868 / 69 / 70
+91 80 22867872
+91 80 22867999 (First Class/Business Class/PPS Members)
Fax:
+91 80 22867899
Email:
blr_feedback@singaporeair.com.sg
Airport Office
Address:
1st Floor, International Departure Terminal Bangalore International Airport, Bangalore 560017
Operating Hours:
Monday, Thursday and Saturday - 1400 hours to 0200 hours(LT) Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday - 1000 hours to 1730 hours(LT)
Tel:
+91 080 25237053
Fax:
+91 080 25237053
Email:
blr_airport@singaporeair.com.sg
saa_speed="http://img.singaporeair.com"
saa_speed="http://img.singaporeair.com"
Internet Helpline
+91 80 2867999
(0915 hours - 1745 hours, Monday to Friday)

Return to USA from Bangalore

Itinerary SWAMINATHAN SAIKUMAR Reservation code: GCCHOD

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FLIGHTS

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Thu, Sep 9-Fri, Sep 10: SINGAPORE AIRLINES, SQ 0429 From: BANGALORE, INDIA (BLR) map Departs: 11:45pm Gate: Check for latest information To: SINGAPORE, SINGAPORE (SIN) map Arrives: 6:45am Arrival Terminal: TERMINAL 2 Class: Economy Seat: Check-In Required Status: Confirmed Confirmation: KT2WTQ Meal: Meal Smoking: No Aircraft: BOEING 777 JET Mileage: 1971 Flight Time: 4 hours and 30 minutes Notes: SEAT WILL BE ASSIGNED AT CHECK IN. Verify flight times prior to departure

Fri, Sep 10: AMERICAN AIRLINES, AA 7214 Operated by JAPAN AIRLINES INTL From: SINGAPORE, SINGAPORE (SIN) map Departs: 8:00am Departure Terminal: TERMINAL 1 Gate: Check for latest information To: TOKYO NARITA, JAPAN (NRT) map Arrives: 3:55pm Arrival Terminal: TERMINAL 2 Class: Economy Seat: Check-In Required Status: Confirmed Confirmation: GCCHOD Meal: Meal Smoking: No Aircraft: BOEING 767 JET Mileage: 3311 Flight Time: 6 hours and 55 minutes Verify flight times prior to departure

Fri, Sep 10: AMERICAN AIRLINES, AA 0128 From: TOKYO NARITA, JAPAN (NRT) map Departs: 5:15pm Departure Terminal: TERMINAL 1 Gate: Check for latest information To: SAN JOSE CA, CA (SJC) map Arrives: 10:30am Arrival Terminal: TERMINAL A Class: Economy Seat: 21A Status: Confirmed Confirmation: GCCHOD Meal: Dinner , Breakfast Smoking: No Aircraft: BOEING 777 JET Mileage: 5163 Flight Time: 9 hours and 15 minutes Verify flight times prior to departure

CAR

Book a car

NO CAR BOOKING FOUND

HOTEL & LODGING

Book a hotel

NO HOTEL BOOKING FOUND

OTHER

Thu, Mar 10: Status: Confirmed Information: THANK YOU FOR USING CARLSON WAGONLIT TRAVEL

ARRANGER REMARKS

Notes: FOR EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE ENROUTE 877-387-8785 OR CALL 972-987-2851 YOUR EMERGENCY ID CODE IS SX5GA-NAI **FARES ARE NOT GUARANTEED UNTIL TICKETS** **ARE APPROVED TO BE ISSUED.** INTL CHECK-IN IS 90 MINUTES PRIOR TO DEPARTURE. PLS RECONFIRM ALL FLIGHTS 72 HRS PRIOR TO DEPARTURE. ALWAYS KEEP A PHOTOCOPY OF PASSPORT WITH YOU WHEN TRAVELING. THIS INSURES FASTER REISSUE IF PASSPORT IS LOST OR STOLEN. FOR INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF MEDICAL ASSISTANCE TO TRAVELERS CALL 602-282-7270 LOGON TO HTTP //TRAVEL.STATE.GOV/TRAVEL WARNINGS.HTML ------------------------------------------------------ COLLECT CALLS ACCEPTED WHEN CALLING FROM OUTSIDE THE US 817-232-9034 DURING NORMAL BUSINESS HOURS 8AM - 7PM CST ------------------------------------------------------ FOR PASSPORT AND VISA REQUIREMENTS AND DOCUMENTS PLEASE CONTACT CIBT 888-215-1340 ACCESS CODE 34775 VALID PASSPORT/VISA REQUIRED FOR TRAVEL TO INDIA LAST DAY TO TICKET FOR FARE IS . 31MAY **IF TRIP IS CANCELLED OR TICKET IS NOT USED ** **PLEASE AD VISE THE TRAVEL OFFICE TO PROCESS ** **REFUNDS,EXCHANGES,OR VOID TICKETS. ** **TOTAL AIR FARE AMOUNT IS USD.2036.90 TICKET IS NON-REFUNDABLE PENALTY AND RESTRICTIONS APPLY FARE REQUIRES ADVANCE PURCHASE AND NOTICE FOR CHANGES CHANGES MAY RESULT IN A HIGHER FARE PLUS REISSUE FEE TICKET ONLY HAS VALUE AFTER FLIGHTS DEPARTS IF FLIGHTS ARE CANCELED PRIOR TO DEPARTURE IF FLIGHTS ARE NO-SHOWED TICKET HAS NO VALUE US EMBASSY IN JAPAN TELEPHONE - 81 3 3224-5000 REGIONAL SECURITY OFFICER - STEPHEN P. BAKER US EMBASSY IN INDIA TELEPHONE - 91 11 419-8000 REGIONAL SECURITY OFFICER - DANIEL R. MCCARTHY MORE INFORMATION CAN BE FOUND ON WEBSITE- TRAVEL.STATE.GOV

Things for a South Indian Couple to Start afresh in the USA

Things for a South Indian Couple to Start afresh in the USA
----------------------------------------------------------

Things that should be bought only in U.S are marked as
(U.S)

Kitchen: (Samayal, saapaadu mudhalla)

1. Pressure Cooker (for paruppu mainly)
2. Paruppu/Rice eversilver vessels (that can fit
inside the cooker)
3. Electric rice cooker (U.S)
4. Vaanalai with bakelite handles and lid for curry
5. Medium size Rasam/sambar adukku(gaL)
6. lids for all of these
7. Rasam/sambar karandi -2, Saadhak karandi
(Annavetti), Kaay kilara
oru
karandi
8. thaalichchu kottradhukku chinna copper bottom
vessel with bakelite
handle
9. jalli karaNdi for vadaam appalaam, etc
10.Idly thattu (3 or 6 depending on..)
11.Non stick dosa/Roti thava
12.Non stick thiruppi (in wood or any non-stick
material)
13. kidukki
14. Knife (U.S)
15. Cutting Board (U.S)
16. Spoons in 2 sizes -each dozen
17. Shripet Jars big - 6, small -6 (for storing
things)
18. vadikatti (for keerai and all)
19. Tea vadikatti (if tea is taken regularly)
20. Carrot/thEngai seevum seevi
21. Chappaaththi kuzhavi
22. Anjarai petti (Spice box)
23. 110 V Indian Mixie
24. Eating plates
25. Eveilver tumblers /davaras (if you are attached to
indian way of
coffee
drinking)
26. Microwavable containers (all sizes) (U.S)
27. Microwavable/fancy Plates, bowls, cups (U.S)
28. 4,5,6,7 - can be replaced by a good Non-stick
Quality cookware set
(U.S)
(would help for
beginners and great for cleaning - no sticky,
theechal)
29. samaiththup paar pusthagam (beginners and whoever
needs reference)
30. 110 V Grinder - some people get this but half %
just get this and
never
use it.

Living room:
1. Decorative items depending on taste - wall hangers,
paintings,
dolls,
etc,,
Everything else (furniture, T.V, entertainment
system,....) you buy/get
in
U.S

Poojai room (or alamaari, whatever) (if spritual)
1. Vilakku
2. thirigaL
3. oothuvathti stand
4. maNi
5. Small box holders for kungum, vibhoothi, sandhanam,
etc
6. Slogha books
7. ofcourse your favorite framed/unframed swami/idol

Bedroom
1. Alarm Clock (you can get good ones in U.S also)
2. Pillow covers - good decorative ones
3. may be Indian bed spread(s)
4. Bed and Comforters/Pillows (U.S)

Bathroom:
Get everything in U.S only.

For the Girl:
1. Some Chudidhaars
2. Jeans, formal pants, TShirts are preferrable - as
many as you want -
or
get them in U.S
3. Rarely you get a chance to wear pattu saree and all
the jighu jighu
jewels - so bring
them in small numbers only
4. Any addiction to Indian make - Soaps/face
cream/cold
cream/shampoos/sigaikkaay/etc etc
(but you need moisturizing soaps for U.S weather)
5. Sweater/saalvai, (winter, fall jackets should be
bought in U.S)
6. Depending on the weather of the city you might need
thermal wear,
Wollen
gloves, socks etc..
7. Sanitary napkins for initial days
8. Spare pair of eye glasses/contacts
9. Cooling glasses (for sunny places)
10. Sandals, shoes (or get them in U.S - better)
11. wallet/hand bags

Other:
1. Things of personal interests - Books to read,
Indian classical/cine
music
CDs Cassettes, veenai, violin, Painting tools, etc.,,.
2. Indian medicine balms for head aches, body aches,
etc, tablets

Bangalore travel agents

India Travel

A nice site compiling different places to travel in India.

Coastal Karnataka pilgrimage tour

Just returned from an amazing pilgrimage tour of Coastal Karnataka. Here goes.

Dates are in the Greogrian calendar, Anno-Domini.
July 17 2004: Saturday
Hired a cab, all the way from Bangalore to Sringeri. It was quite an amazing drive. Lush forests of the western ghats & fields & wild-flowers, it was simply magnificient. Saw the holy river Tungabhadra, on whose banks Adi Shankara saw a frog in labour protected from the sun by a cobra (its hood); 2500 years back (according to Puranic history). The matt was awesome as well. When the Shankaracharya commenced his Puja of the Bhoga Linga (one of the 5 main Lingas Adi Shankara procured from Kailasha), I thought a cassette by a professional was being played. It turned out to be a group of three girls, whose singing was aided by the place's acoustics. They were simply magnificent. (They can certainly be professionals. C'mon Spic-Macay). The songs were in certain soulful favourite ragams of mine, which almost brought tears to my eyes; such was their rendition. This was followed by awesome reverberating Vedic chants, where I felt handicapped without my book. Stayed in the Matt house.
Saw Halebid from afar on the way. Didn't have the enthu to go in & wanted to reach Sringeri. However, did visit the Vishnu temple at Belur. It was simply an amazing temple with some great sculptures. However, the holy place of worship seems a commercialized tourist place, unfortunately.

July 18 2004: Sunday
Had a very enjoyable morning among the greenery, saw 'paakku' trees covered with pepper climbers, some beautiful flowers, and some very, very cute monkeys with kids. It was a small species of a monkey with a beard, it would be only till my thighs (I'm 5'6''), and there were quite a few baby monkeys tightly hugging its mother. So cute. Put some water of the Tungabhadra on my head, felt my sins lightened. :) All the way then to Hornadu Annapoorneshwari temple. This again was established by Adi Shankara himself. One can only imagine how he travelled to all these places so long ago (1500-2500 yrs back). I was convinced he would have travelled by Yogic powers. Drove through a dense forest, which was simply amazing, with some amazing sights. The rivers & green mountains & jungle sounds... It was mind-blowing. Nothing like a tropical rain-forest to cheer you up. And calm you.
We were driving through mists & fogs & clouds in-between. An amazing experience. And a little scary in the foggy nights.
All the way back to Udipi. The driver, a nice guy, informs us that it would be better if we'd travelled to Hornadu first, then to Sringeri. There were lots of cows in Udipi, being treated well, having their residence on the roads & waking up to human calls for food. :) It was funny & cute at the same time.

July 18 2004: Monday-Day three
Udipi-Kollur Mookambi-Kateel Jala Durga-Dharmasthala. Kollur seems established by Adi Shankara (again) during his search for Sringeri (for Goddess Saraswati's residence). The Sowparniga river was beautiful here. More river water on my head. In Udipi, Krishna had turned himself to the backside, for the sake of a pure-minded devotee, and had broken the wall with his Math. All devotees seem him from the back to this day. (The Brihadeeshwara Nandi had moved for similar reasons). There are beautiful ancient stories concerning Madhvacharya & Swami Vadeeshwara. Kateel had the Nandhini river, more of which disappeared on my head. :)
Night at Dharmasthala on the banks of the beautiful Netravati river. Dharmasthala is truly a Dhramasthala for the amount of people they feed unquestioningly. Vedic dharma certainly flourishes there.
Saw Aanai-Konda-Ganesha sometime in-between.

July 19 2004: Tuesday-Day four
Dharmasthala again in the morning, then to Subramanya. A wonderful drive again. Again situated on the banks of the river, Kumaradhara. This region is definitely naturally endowed. And so beautiful. Back to Bangalore from Subramanya.

I hope to spend like 3 nights or a week in a tropical Indian forest sometime. That should be wonderful. And tremendously refreshing.

Hope this itinerary helps others with similar ideas plan theirs.

Trip itinerary in a nutshell:
Bangalore-Halebid-Sringeri-Hornadu-Udipi-Kollur-Kattil-Dharmasthala-Subramanya-Bangalore

Better itinerary:
Bangalore-Halebid-Hornadu-Sringeri-Udipi-Kollur-Kattil-Dharmasthala-Subramanya-Bangalore

San Jose to Bangalore (BEC) to Chennai

Here goes, after a looong sojourn. Have had an eventful first two weeks in India, on here in a business trip.

June 8th 2004:
I was surprisingly not excited, at the prospect of coming to Bangalore, India. I was booked in 3 different airlines: San Jose-Tokyo:American; Tokyo-Singapore: Singapore; Singapore-Bangalore: Indian. And the adventure starts...

I give my tickets & boarding passes to the flight counter attendant; and she tells me: "I've checked in all your baggage to Singapore". Thank God, I caught that; I asked her to check-it in to Bangalore. "We don't have an alliance with Indian airlines, so not possible. You gotta manually check-in"! Okie, gotta change my return plans. Tried calling up my biz-trip predecessors but without success.

Tokyo: After awful veggie food in American (they even forgot my stuff, and then prepared something for me); landed in Tokyo; had some food. Liked the nice, respectful bows of the Japanese & bowed back. Got an idea; asked the airline personnel: Can you have my baggage directly shifted to Bangalore? "Yes, possible, please wait". Awesome! "Sorry, your baggage is already checked in; go to that peson in ... She may be able help you". Okie! One problem. The new person was not very comfy with English. Giving details that she manually transmitted to Singapore to the Baggage service agent there, she asked me for the colour. "Violet" I said. "Wine red?" "No Violet"! "Wine-red?" "Give me a piece of paper, I'll write it down" "No... show... me... here..." Showed here the baggage details....

Singapore: Landed past midnight there. No personnel to confirm the baggage info. Slept uncomfortably in the seat. (Maybe should have checked-in to a transit hotel). Found that I had to get past immigration to get to the baggage, which obviously wasn't possible. (Ah! That American airlines personnel!) Sought baggage confirmation 1 hour before departure. She sent a request to the baggage personnel. "Can you please call up & confirm like in Tokyo?" "This is not Tokyo, this is Singapore! Your baggage would be there in Bangalore!" "Errr.. Okie..."

Indian: Was prepared for the worst, after people told me that the airlines were not as new & clean as one would like. However, found the service to be really nice; had some good food after a long time, airline was old, but clean. Also, had some interesting travel brochures relating to India, and I stored away some portions like Arunachal tourism in memory.

In Bangalore-June 10th: Felt some excitement for the first time. Was awfully tired. Got my baggage fine! Check-out & immigration was much faster than my earlier experiences in Chennai. Had recd complaints about size of the airport, but found it nicely decorated with tourism stuff, and well organized. Got some Indian currency, but poor exchange rate. Had a driver waiting for me. "Do you know where to take me?" "Yes, Oberoi!" (Cool, my request for a better apt had been taken into account). That turned out to be false. Was taken to my original apartment (Elite Enclave). (Digression: There, Cabbies & other business guys usually know: English, Kannada, Tamil, Telugu, Hindi). There, my room wasn't available, the guy supposed to check-out had delayed; and would check-out only a few hours later. And the room guy knew only Hindi (& Bangla). Racking my brains of my rusty Hindi vocabulary, that I picked up in my North Indian trip earlier, I was talking with him. He called up someone, and was offered a temporary room to freshen myself. Only problem, the room was occupied (by a Siemens professional). Promptly called up & complained to my office, and had a most extraordinary exchange. "Were you planning to come to work today?" "Yes" "Then, why don't you come over, and come back in the evening?" In a more raspy tone... "T*****, I have just landed after a long flight, and I need to freshen up. Please make appropriate arrangements" The manager had returned by then, apologized for the grievous error committed by the room-boys; and was finally shifted over to a different place, with the assurance that I wouldn't be shifted again. It was 3:00 PM by the time I had completed brunch; and fell into an exhausted, jet-lagged sleep; woke up at 10:00 PM. There was cook in the apt complex, and he had prepared: Chukka Roti, Sabji, Dal & Rice. For Rs.60! For lunch & dinner! Decided not to eat here anymore.

June 11th: First day of work in an Indian office. Spent time familiarizing with the surroundings, people. It has been an excellent experience so far, that day & the next week. Parents also arrived on that day, and spent the weekend.

Got Visa papers in order & rechecked everything. Found that I'd forgotten one set, and my friend promptly responded, scanned them; and gmailed it to me. Visited the Someshwara temple, and when asked the Sthala Puranam; the priest could only tell me that it was founded by a Rishi some 5000 years back, and he asked us for some material, if possible. Visited the Bannerghatta national park. Saw Bears, Wild Bisons, Lions & tigers in the wild. It was an awesome experience. It was also very green. Took some snaps. Saw the zoo later, and felt very bad; that those animals were in cages, even monkeys, bears & elephants. Should write to some authorities to get atleast some animals release to the wild open space.

Also found that the company had negotiated a pretty bad deal with the cab company by Indian standards. Should request renegotiation.

Guys took me to various places for lunch, worked late, guys in BEC dropped me back close to Ulsoor lake. Visa papers' photo was not the right one, took a different one; and resubmitted the next day. One idiotic terrorist guy causes September 11, and the everyone else suffers owing to the stringent documentation requirements.

Tipping: One Avis guy asked me for tips, and I asked him for a receipt. "No receipt, no tips". Later, I found the awful deal negotiated, and took a much more stringent view of cab-tipping. Did tip some guys, but not the others.
The security guy in front of TT Services asked for tips! (Why?) Just because I asked him for some directions! Refused.

Plan to meet more friends next week.

Got a cell-phone for the first time. Was excited.

Was shifted to a newer, nicer place on Friday. Nice owners. Was good. Travelled to Chennai via train for more adventures. More on that in the next one.

Kalaripayattu in Bangalore

27500 kalaripayattu
#213,kalyannagar, Bangalore India
091-9844170126 kerala

http://www.kalaripayattu.org/pr5.htm
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/articleshow/505019.cms
http://www.kalaripayattu.org/pr1.htm
http://www.kalaripayattu.org/pr10.htm
http://www.newstabs.com/archive/2002/nbo/issue6/kalari.htm
http://www.hinduonnet.com/thehindu/mp/2003/06/30/stories/2003063000490200.htm

Manali, Himachal

Top Ten Things To Do, Munnar - India Travel Guides

Take the family Boating. Where there’s water around Munnar, you’ll generally find boats to rent for a day’s adventure out on the liquid surface. The Muttuputty Lake/Dam offers facilities such as this as do the local coastal spots and rivers. No matter whether you fancy sailing, being driven by the breeze or paddling your way along the waterways in a canoe, you are sure to find something to suit your abilities and boating style in this town or within a short drive of the place. For more boating info call: 91-486-531516 or 91-486-530679 or 530672

One of the main reasons many visit this area is to go Cycling Peddle power provides endless opportunities to explore off-the-beaten-track areas, plus gives one the chance to experience the area at a far more leisurely pace than most forms of transport. If your hotel doesn’t supply bikes the DTPC Information Centre, in Old Munnar telephone: 91-386-530679 or 530682 does.

A must to activity in the area is to go to the Eravikulam National Park By driving north from Munnar for 30 minutes and then hiking a few kilometres, you reach this sanctuary which is home to over three thousand free-roaming ibex, elephants, lion-tailed macaque, and the Nilgiri tahr (an endangered mountain goat). Declared as a National Park in 1978 it covers 97km of rolling grass hills forested valleys and is one of the ‘must do' activities in the area.

Go Fishing. Grab your rod and reel and head to the hill streams and rivers for a spot of fishing. This pleasant activity is one that even the youngest family members will enjoy. Fly fishing for trout is a viable option here and for more information speak to the tourist offices in town. Note: It’s often a good idea to bring your own rod and tackle when visiting, though you can buy or rent gear on arrival.

Take a Helicopter Flight There is nothing better than viewing Munnar and it’s surrounds from the air. If you fancy this idea call Munnar Helicopter Tours on: 91-484-668356 for more information.

Take a drive and pay a visit to Marayoor Around 40km from Munnar, Marayoor has many firsts to its credit. It is the only place in Kerala with natural growth of sandalwood trees, natural caves with murals, and relics from Later Stone Age civilisation. There is a sandalwood factory of the Forest Department of Kerala and a children's park extending across one hectare of land under the canopy of a single Banyan tree, all of which attract tourists in large numbers. Some nearby destinations such as Thoovanam and Rajiv Gandhi National Park are also of great interest.

Pay a visit to the Mudapetty Dam for a day, 10km from Munnar, this popular picnic spot has ctivities like boating and horse riding and is a great place to spend the day especially if visiting with children.

Don't miss a visit to Pothamedu, one of the major plantation hubs of Munnar, Pothamedu is situated at a distance of around 6km from the town. Views of coffee, tee, and cardamom plantations are excellent from here and it’s an ideal spot for trekking and hiking amidst lush mountains, rolling hills and breathtaking scenery.

Get yourself over to Rajamallay/Rajamala about 17km from Munnar is the natural habitat of the Nilgiri Tahr (an endangered mountain goat). Rajamala is 2695m above sea level. The Nilgiri Tahrs are today reduced to small herds, found in the Eravikulam-Rajamala region and rarely if ever anywhere else these days; so are well worth seeing while they still exist; your grandchildren may never be so lucky.

Last but certainly not least: Go Trekking Attukal, Anamudi and Rajamala are ideal places for trekking. These places are a feast for the eyes with their panoramic waterfalls and rolling hills but are not the only places close to Munnar where you can stretch your legs. Ask for more details on other spectacular trekking trails on arrival.

Top Ten Things to Do, Chennai - India Travel Guides

Check out one of the world’s biggest trees, the Adyar Banyan Tree It measures 238ft from north to south and 250ft from east to west. The total area exceeds 59,500 sq ft and has been the centre of many notable gatherings of the Theosophical Society and thousands of visitors have rested in its shade. See it for yourself and wonder at the millions who have seen it and stood in its shade before you in bygone eras.

If you like a bit of fun and enjoy an adrenalin rush then you really do need to visit at least one of the many Theme Parks or Entertainment Complexes in and around the city and this is an absolute must do if travelling with children. For more information go to our Sport and Activity (Entertainment) pages or our Children’s Activity pages.

Don’t miss at least one visit to Fort St. George built in 1640 AD, by the British East India Company under the direct supervision of Francis Day and Andrew Cogon. The fort was first completed in 1654 but owes its present shape to the remodelling work that was undertaken in 1749. The 6m high walls of the fort have withstood several fierce sieges and was attacked by Daud Khan, general of Emperor Aurangzeb, in 1701, by the Marathas in 1741 and by Hyder Ali on several occasions in the late 18th century. Fort St. George's towering flagstaff is, even today, the tallest in India. Glimpses of early Chennai are preserved in Clive Corner, Wellesley House (now in ruins), Fort Museum and St. Mary's church located within the compound.

Get a good insight into life in Chennai years ago and a better understanding of the city today at the Government Museum. Besides the museum it houses the Connemara Public Library and the National Art Gallery. The museum contains exhibits ranging from contemporary artefacts to prehistoric findings. Sculptures and bronzes of various periods, sections for zoology, anthropology and geology impress every visitor. Buddhist sculptures found in the Amaravathi section depict the events recorded in the life of the Buddha so all up there’s plenty to see here and a visit is well worth it. The museum complex is open 9.30 am to 5 pm; closed on Fridays and public holidays.

Take a drive and visit Kanchipuram a small rural town about 75km from Chennai in the state of Tamilnadu. Its economy is entirely dependent on tourism and the well established handloom industry. Silk saris manufactured here are considered some of the best found anywhere so is a great place to go shopping for this sort of thing. Other interesting sights include the Kamakshi Amman Temple, Varadharaja Perumal Temple, Vaikunda Perumal Temple, Kailasanathar Temple, Ekambaranathar Temple, Ulagalandha Perumal Temple, Yathoktakari Perumal Temple, Deepaprakasa, Perumal Temple, Kandakottam Subramanya Swami Temple, Kachapeswarar Temple, Sankupani Vinayakar Temple, Pandava Thoodha Perumal Temple, Vijayaraghava Perumal Temple at Tirupputkuzhi, and Jain Temples at Tirupparuthikkundram.

Go for a snorkel at the Kurusadai Islands. This is an ecological paradise situated off Mandapam. It is notable for its coral reefs and wonderful of marine life such as dolphins. Note: Permission from the Fisheries Department in Chennai is necessary to visit the Islands.

Take time out and visit Mahabalipuram also known, as Mamallapuram 58km south of Chennai, nestling on the shores of the Bay of Bengal, which was once a port of the Pallavas. The Pallavas have created many marvellous monuments with Sculptural Panels, Caves, Monolithic Rathas (chariots) and Temples worth seeing. There is also a crocodile farm, snake venom extracting center, schools of art and sculpture worth viewing as well as lots of other places to see and activities to experience.

Check out Marina Beach pride of Chennai, reputed to be the second longest beach in the world with a wide sandy foreshore. Situated on the beach, the Anna and MGR samadhis are memorials of the most popular former Chief Ministers of the state. An aquarium is also located on the Marina Beach. Some of the most beautiful buildings in Chennai such as the University of Chennai, Senate House, Chepuk Palace, Presidency College and Ice House are located on this beach drive too that are worth seeing. Worthy of special mention is a group of bronze figures by the renowned Indian sculptor, Debi Prosad Rai Chaudhari, eulogizing the 'Dignity of Labour'.

You can’t afford not to visit at least one of the many Parks and Sanctuaries in the area. Who knows you may even be lucky enough to spot a tiger. For more information click here.

Don’t go home without seeing the Shore Temple located in Mamallapuram 60km south of Chennai which is one of the oldest temples in south India. It belongs to the early 8th century AD and is a good example of the first phase of structural temples constructed in Dravidian style. The monuments are floodlit at night and so it is possible to enjoy their beauty after sunset.

Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Sikkim

Arunachal
http://india-tourism.com/en_apr.0.html

Meghalaya
http://eastindiavyapaar.com/travel/meghalaya/meg_tvl_shil.htm
HOW TO REACH

Guwahati is the gateway to the North East including Meghalaya. Best way to reach is to fly in Guwahati, which is well connected, by air and train from Delhi and Calcutta. There are daily flights to Guwahati as well as train service from Delhi and Calcutta. Jungle Travels staff will receive you on arrival and arrange transfer to your destination.

http://india-tourism.com/en_meg.0.html
Any time of the year is the right time to visit Meghalaya. Often likened to Scotland for its topography, scenic beauty and vegetation, it presents a panorama of lush, rolling hills; heather-covered slopes; breathtakingly beautiful waterfalls; mountain springs; moving mists; silent lakes, and a multitude of flora and fauna, including rare and unique species.
All its charms are made doubly attractive by its climate; on the whole cool and temperate right round the year. Even the coldest winter has a touch of spring, and even the monsoon months are a Chlaroscuro of dark, rain-laden clouds and bright sunshine. Its climate makes Meghalaya that rare hill-resort country that is a pleasure to visit round the year, even at the dead of winter.
http://www.tourismofindia.com/sts/stmegplaces.htm


Assam
http://india-tourism.com/en_ass.0.html

Sikkim
http://india-tourism.com/en_sik.0.html

Agatti island in Lakshadweep

Agatti possesses a singularly beautiful lagoon on the western side. In th translucent turquoise green water can be seen multi coloured fishes and coral growth. The many gaps in the reef cause the ripples on the beach to be very strong for coir-soaking. Husks are put in fresh water pots which provide a splendid abode for anopheles larva. Mosquitoes are rare. This is because of abundant small species of fresh water carp which live upon the larva. The island is ideal for fishing. Coral growths and mulitcoloured coral fishes abound in this lagoon. Because of the depth and ripples, it is impossible for the inhabitants to ret coir in the lagoon as done in other islands.

Tourism’s major focus is on water sports, as each of the islands are surrounded by a coral reef providing large areas of crystal clear water for everything from snorkeling to wind surfing. The five islands which are open to tourists have simple accommodation in the shape of beach cottages. Permits to visit Lakshadweep can be obtained from the Lakshadweep tourist office in Cochin. Regular flights operate from Cochin to one of the islands, as well as modestly priced ship cruises which stop at all the islands open to tourism. These cruises begin and end at Cochin.

Agatti boasts of being the only island in Lakshadweep with an airport. While at Agatti do not miss the experience of the fiberglass boats and the country canoes cruises. Amongst the wide range of water sports offered at Agatti are snorkeling, kayaking and canoeing. There are about 10 islands which are open for tourists. Lakshdweep offers sightseeing of beach including Agatti – which has one of the most beautiful lagoons in Lakshadweep. Bangaram - Tear-drop shaped, this island is encircled by a continuous halo of creamy sand. Kavaratti - is the most developed of the islands with the highest percentage of non-islanders as residents. Kalpeni - has three uninhabited satellite islands, all surrounded by an immense lagoon of spectacular beauty.In excursion visit to Kadhmath is must. Kadhmath is the only island with lagoons on both eastern and western sides. Minicoy Island which is 200 kms away to the South is near to the Maldives.

The most exclusive of these islands is Bangaram, A holiday resort that sits on its own lagoon, a hundred shades of blue hinting at the hidden worlds below. Once at Agatti you board a boat and set off for Bangaram which is just an hour and a half away. There are no indigenious inhabitants and facilities have been designed to respect a delicate natural ecosystem. The resort has a restaurant which serves Indian and International cuisines. The Resort provides the facilities of Scuba Diving, Snorklling, Deep Sea Fishing, Rafting, Catamaran Sailing and more water sports.

The first glimpse of the island is about one and half hours flight from Cochin airport to the malli and Agatti.

Kumarakom backwaters in Kerala

The village of Kumarakom is a cluster of little islands on the Vembanad Lake, and this small water world is part of the Kuttanad region. The bird sanctuary here, which is spread across 14 acres is a favorite haunt of migratory birds and an ornithologist's paradise. Egrets, darters, herons, teal, waterfowl, cuckoo, wild duck and migratory birds like the Siberian stork that live There in flocks are a fascination for visitors. The best way to watch the birds of the Kumarakom sanctuary is a boat trip round the islands.



An unbelievably beautiful paradise of mangrove forests, emerald green paddy fields and coconut groves interspersed with enchanting waterways and canals adorned with while lillies - this is Kumarakom



By Rail
From Bombay, Madras or Bangalore, you can take a train to Kerala. The best place to alight is either Cochin or Kottayam (the nearest railhead to the resort, just 16 Km away by road). Kottayam links you to all major cities in Kerala and India with numerous trains plying this route daily. From Cochin, you could also take a south bound train via the Alleppey route ( enjoy picturesque scenery as the route flanks the backwaters and the sea on its way). Alight at Chertala for a short 14 Km ride to Kumarakom.



By Boat
If you have arrived at Trivandrum International Airport, come to Quilon by road or rail (takes just about one hour). From there, you can take the regular ferry service to Alleppey - a long and delightful ride on Kerala's backwaters. From Alleppey, it's just a short ride to Kumarakom.



If you have arrived at Cochin International Airport, perhaps you might prefer a ride through the backwaters to Alleppey. There are many boats services offered at Cochin





The nearest bus terminal, is at Kottayam, 14 Km away by road.
Nearest railway station: Kottayam, about 16 km.
Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport, about 76 kms from Kottayam town

Bangalore itinerary

Itinerary
SWAMINATHAN SAIKUMAR
Reservation code: GCCHOD

FLIGHTS

Tue, Jun 8-Wed, Jun 9: AMERICAN AIRLINES, AA 0129
From: SAN JOSE CA, CA (SJC) Departs: 12:30pm
Departure Terminal: TERMINAL A
To: TOKYO NARITA, JAPAN (NRT) Arrives: 3:30pm
Arrival Terminal: TERMINAL 1
Class: Economy Seat: 35C
Status: Confirmed Confirmation: GCCHOD
Meal: Lunch , Dinner Smoking: No
Aircraft: BOEING 777 JET Mileage: 5163
Flight Time: 11 hours and 0 minutes
Verify flight times prior to departure

Wed, Jun 9-Thu, Jun 10: SINGAPORE AIRLINES, SQ 0011
From: TOKYO NARITA, JAPAN (NRT) Departs: 7:10pm
Departure Terminal: TERMINAL 1
To: SINGAPORE, SINGAPORE (SIN) Arrives: 1:05am
Arrival Terminal: TERMINAL 2
Class: Economy Seat: Check-In Required
Status: Confirmed Confirmation: JRVQU4
Meal: Meal Smoking: No
Aircraft: BOEING 747 JET Mileage: 3311
Flight Time: 6 hours and 55 minutes
Notes: SEAT WILL BE ASSIGNED AT CHECK IN.
Verify flight times prior to departure

Thu, Jun 10: INDIAN AIRLINES, IC 0958
From: SINGAPORE, SINGAPORE (SIN) Departs: 7:50am
Departure Terminal: TERMINAL 1
To: BANGALORE, INDIA (BLR) Arrives: 9:40am
Class: Economy Seat: Check-In Required
Status: Confirmed Confirmation: RFSNFZ
Meal: Breakfast Smoking: No
Aircraft: AIRBUS JET Mileage: 1971
Flight Time: 4 hours and 20 minutes
Notes: SEAT WILL BE ASSIGNED AT CHECK IN.
Verify flight times prior to departure

Fri, Sep 10: INDIAN AIRLINES, IC 0957
From: BANGALORE, INDIA (BLR) Departs: 12:05am
To: SINGAPORE, SINGAPORE (SIN) Arrives: 6:55am
Arrival Terminal: TERMINAL 1
Class: Economy Seat: Check-In Required
Status: Confirmed Confirmation: RFSNFZ
Meal: Snack or Brunch Smoking: No
Aircraft: AIRBUS JET Mileage: 1971
Flight Time: 4 hours and 20 minutes
Notes: SEAT WILL BE ASSIGNED AT CHECK IN.
Verify flight times prior to departure

Fri, Sep 10: AMERICAN AIRLINES, AA 7214
Operated by JAPAN AIRLINES INTL
From: SINGAPORE, SINGAPORE (SIN) Departs: 8:00am
Departure Terminal: TERMINAL 1
To: TOKYO NARITA, JAPAN (NRT) Arrives: 3:55pm
Arrival Terminal: TERMINAL 2
Class: Economy Seat: 19H
Status: Confirmed Confirmation: GCCHOD
Meal: Meal Smoking: No
Aircraft: BOEING 767 JET Mileage: 3311
Flight Time: 6 hours and 55 minutes
Verify flight times prior to departure

Fri, Sep 10: AMERICAN AIRLINES, AA 0128
From: TOKYO NARITA, JAPAN (NRT) Departs: 5:15pm
Departure Terminal: TERMINAL 1
To: SAN JOSE CA, CA (SJC) Arrives: 10:30am
Arrival Terminal: TERMINAL A
Class: Economy Seat: 21G
Status: Confirmed Confirmation: GCCHOD
Meal: Dinner , Breakfast Smoking: No
Aircraft: BOEING 777 JET Mileage: 5163
Flight Time: 9 hours and 15 minutes
Verify flight times prior to departure

OTHER

Thu, Mar 10:
Status: Confirmed
Information: THANK YOU FOR USING CARLSON WAGONLIT TRAVEL


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