Friday, May 23, 2008

TATA Nano Reviews and Details

TATA NANO is the latest and cheapest car India. Tata introduced this car during January 2008 and priced Rs 1 lakh (approximate US$ 2500), which makes it the cheapest car in India available as of now.

Price : Rs.100000

Stylish and comfortable

TATA NANO, designed with a family in mind, has a roomy passenger compartment with generous leg space and head room. It can comfortably seat four persons.

With a length of 3.1 metres, width of 1.5 metres and height of 1.6 metres and with adequate ground clearance, it can be effortlessly driven in busy roads and cities.

Fuel efficient engine

TATA NANO has a rear-wheel drive, all-aluminium, two-cylinder, 623 cc, 33 PS, multi point fuel injection petrol engine.

TATA Nano Features

. All sheet-metal body, strong passenger compartment
. intrusion-resistant doors
. seat belts
. strong seats and anchorages
. tailgate glass bonded to the body
. tubeless tyres
. lower pollution level than two-wheelers being manufactured in India
. rear-wheel drive
. all-aluminium, two-cylinder, 623 cc, 33 PS, multi point fuel injection petrol engine
. performance controlled by a specially designed electronic engine management system
. length: 3.1 metres
. width: 1.5 metres
. height: 1.6 metres
. 4 seats
. 4 doors

The above cool features of Tata Nano will make it the people's car, as dreamed by Mr. Ratan N. Tata, Chairman of the Tata Group and Tata Motors.

Sunday, May 4, 2008

Hill Resorts in Kodaikanal

Hotel Name :
PARADISE INN
Star Category :
3 Star (Government Approved)
Address :
Paradise Compound, Laws Ghat Road
City : Kodaikanal
PinCode : 624 101
State : Tamil Nadu

Access :

120 kms. from Madurai Airport;
86 kms. from Kodai Road Railway Station;
2 minutes from Lake Stop Bus Stand.
Number of rooms :
38
Locational advantage :
Near the Lake.

Hotel Name :
HOTEL J'S HERITAGE
Star Category :
(Government Approved)
Address :
P.T. Road, Near Seven Roads
City : Kodaikanal
PinCode : 624 101
State : Tamil Nadu

Access :

120 kms. from Madurai Airport;
80 kms. from Kodaikanal Road Railway Station;
250 mts. from Kodaikanal Bus Stand.
Other Facilities :
Hotel Centrally located, Carpeted room, CTV with satellite transmission, Telephone, 24 hrs. hot water, 24 hrs. room service, Same day laundry service, Car parking, Doctor on call, Travel counter. Resort: Peaceful place with nice valley view, CTV with satellite transmission, Telephone, 24 hrs. hot water, 24 hrs. room service, Same day laundry service, Gymnasium, Conference hall, Discotheque, Campfire, Shuttle court, Table tennis, Carom chess, Self cooking facilities, Car parking, Doctor on call.
Number of rooms :
14
Locational advantage :
Heart of the city, Close to the Lake and other sightseeing spots.

Hotel Name :
HILLTOP TOWERS
Address :
Club Road
City : Kodaikanal
PinCode : 624 101
State : Tamil Nadu

Access :

120 kms from Madurai Airport;
85 kms from Kodairaod Railway Station;
0.5 km. from Kodaikanal Bus Stand.
Other Facilities :
IATA approved Travel Agent Counter.
Number of rooms :
26
Locational advantage :
Centrally located & also close to lake.

Kodaikannal - Hill Station

KODAIKANAL (Introduction)
Kodai or Kodaikanal is on the southern crest of the Palani hills, about 120 km from Madurai, at an altitude of 2100 mt. It is surrounKodaikanal Hill Station,Kodaikanal travelded by wooded slopes, waterfalls and precipitous rocky outcrops.

Founded by American missionaries in 1845, Kodaikanal is steeped in history. Relics and artifacts of the Paliyans who once lived in these hills can still be seen in the Shenbaganur Museum. Even today, a few Paliyans can be seen near Kukal Cave. In the early days, there were no roads—people had to travel by bullock-cart and palanquin, braving the dangers of the forests. Slowly Kodaikanal developed, missionaries established church properties, many of the then ruling princes built summer holiday-homes, clubs were opened, school and hotels were built, and civic amenities were introduced.

Kodaikanal Hills is an idyllic getaway for regular tourists, trekker and honeymooners. Blessed with nature's breath-taking beauty, the star-shaped lake dominates this sleepy hill-station.

KODAIKANAL (Location)
Situated on the southern tip of the upper Palani Hills (Western Ghats) at an altitude of more than 6854 ft. Kodai is 120 km north-west of Madurai; 510 km away from Chennai, 262 km from Coimbatore and 615 km from Bangalore.

THE TOWN
Driving into Kodaikanal from Palani is a dramatic experience, reminiscent in parts of the drive up the Ghat road from Kallar to Ooty. It is a relief to leave the hot, dusty plains behind and drive up into the cool hills. The vegetation changes gradually from palm-fringed paddy fields to wild brush with flaming blossoms to plantations interspersed with stately silver oaks. The view of the Amaravathi Dam, a shimmering sapphire sheet of water is an unforgettable sight. Driving higher, banana trees give way to tall eucalyptus trees, and the whole countryside is dotted with wildflowers in jeweled colors, magenta and purple predominating. There is a marked nip in the air, as one reaches for one’s cardigan, or shawl. At a bend in the road, the shimmer and roar of the Silver Cascade waterfall welcome the tourist.

Arriving in Kodai town, one is greeted by orchards of pear trees with their graceful branches silhouetted in artistic curves against the evening sky like stark Zen etchings. Buildings with gabled roof dot the skyline. Broken fragments of light from the setting sun are caught and kindled in the wind-rippled water appearing like a myriad lamp floating on the lake. Soon, as though on cue, lights start twinkling all over the hillside, and even the stars pick up the message, and heaven and earth are a riot of light, as though beaming messages of goodwill to each other.

PLACES TO VISIT
The Coaker's Walk offers some fantastic views of the surrounding plains. Another superb vantage point, is the Kurinji Andavar temple, dedicated to Lord Murugan, which provides a panoramic view of the lofty hills, that embrace Kodaikanal. Some of the popular picnic spots in the resort, are the Green Valley View, Pillar Rocks, and Bear Shola Falls. Nature seems to have blessed Kodai in all her magnanimity, a fact evident from the immense profusion of exotic flora and fauna of the area. The amazing orchid collection at the Shenbaganur Museum, has granted Kodai international fame. Kodai is also blessed with the rare bloom of the highly elusive Kurinji flower, that makes a dramatic appearance, once in 12 years.The Kurinji last bloomed in 1992. The resort is also home to various species of birds, thus rendering it a bird - watcher's delight.

Kodaikanal promises to be an ideal getaway, for those craving for an invigorating yet soothing holiday, away from the madness of the city.


KODAIKANAL (Excursion)
There are several excursion spots in and around Kodaikanal.


Dolphin’s Nose: located about eight km from the lake, is a flat projecting rock from where one can have a breathtaking view of the yawning chasm below.

The Perumal Peak: about 11 km from Kodaikanal, is a trekker’s delight. Climbers begin their ascent from the Neutral Saddle.

Berijam Lake: supplies drinking water to Periyakulam town, and is 21 km from Kodaikanal (beyond the Pillar Rocks). It is a popular picnic spot with a beautiful view.

Kukal Cave: 40 km from Kodaikanal, is a favourite camping site for trekkers. Reportedly, descendants of the Paliyans still live here.

KODAIKANAL (Travel Information)

Air:The nearest airport is Madurai, 120 km away. It is well connected to other airports.

Train:The nearest railway station is Kodai Railway Station, which is 80 km away.

Road: Kodaikanal is connected by road with important towns. Regular bus services are available from Madurai, Palani, Kodaikanal Road, Theni, Dindigul, Tiruchirapalli, Kumuli (Thekkady) and Coimbatore.

KODAIKANAL(Accommodation)
Kodaikanal offers good accomodation in Hotel Tamil Nadu, Hotel Clifton, Carlton Hotel, Shanmuga Vilas, Lodge Paradise, Hotel Jayraj, Jaya Lodge, Kodai Lodge and Sterling Guest House are some of the available means of accomodation

Hill Resports in Shimla

Hotel Name :
HOTEL COMBERMERE
Star Category :
(Government Approved)
Address :
Opp. Tourism Lift, The Mall
City : Shimla ,
PinCode : 171 001
State : Himachal Pradesh

Access :

24 kms. from Delhi Airport;
1.5 km. from Railway Station;
1.2 km. from Bus Stand.
Number of rooms :
40
Type of rooms :
Standard, Suite, Deluxe.
Food Facility :
Indian, Chinese, Continental.
Facility :

Multi gymnasium, Billiards room, Table tennis.


Hotel Name :
SHILON RESORT
Star Category :
(Government Approved)
Address :
Kufri-Chail Road, Shilon Bagh
P.O. Munda Ghat,
City : Shimla
PinCode : 170 001
State : Himachal Pradesh

Access :

42 kms. from Delhi Airport;
25 km. from Railway Station;
Number of rooms :
50
Type of rooms :
Standard, Suite.
Food Facility :
Multi-Cuisine.
Facility :

Restaurant (150 pax capacity), Bar, Business centre, Executive Lounge, Banquet facilities, Conference facilities, Utility shop, Tennis, Discotheque, Gymnasium, Billiards, Croquet, Badminton, Roller skating, Play pen, Video games, Horse riding, Doctor on call, Laundry, Safe deposit, Baby sitting, valet, Travel desk service, Credit cards accepted, Massage parlour & Amusement Park in progress, 23 hrs. hot & cold running water, Spacious parking space.


Hotel Name :
HOTEL HIMLAND EAST
Star Category :
3 Star
Address :
Circular Road, Shimla

Access :

22 kms Airport;
3.5 kms from Railway Station;
2 km from Bus Stand.
Location :
City Center
Property Type :
Business And Leisure Hotel
Himland East is Shimla's Drive-in-Hotel. Established in year 1969, just 1 km from the Shopping Mall & Lift, away from the hustle & bustle of the crowded city yet its within city. With all modern amenities and facilities of three star hotel. Hotel Himland East is a home away from home, best suited for families & Honeymooners.

Hotel Name :
CLARK'S HOTEL
Star Category :
3 Star
Address :
The Mall, Shimla

Access :

21 kms Airport;
0.5 kms from Railway Station;
0.5 km from Bus Stand.
Location :
City Center
Property Type :
Business And Leisure Hotel
Clarke''s Hotel embodies the elegance and charm of yesteryear, with modern conveniences of today. Located on Shimla's main promenade - The Mall, you are immediately welcomed into a warm and graceful environment.

Shimla - the Summer Capital of Birtish India

Shimla (Introduction)
Shimla, the summer capital of the British India, is situated Shimla tours,Shimla hill stationat a height of 2,196 metres. While the British have left the echoes linger on. today, its well developed facilities, easy accessibility and many attractions make it one of India's most popular resorts. In the Himalyan lower ranges, it is surrounded by pine, cedar, oak and rhododendron forests.
Shimla is located towards the southern parts of the north Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. Now It is the state capital and is at a distance of 343 km from Delhi, 260 km from Manali, and 119 km from Chandigarh. The temperature range is not very high and the maximum temperature rarely crosses 25°C during summers. Winters are cold due to the chilly winds from the upper Himalayas.

Shimla ( History)
The British discovered Shimla in the form of a little village in 1819. Until then, it was a part of the Nepalese kingdom. It was during Lord William Bentinck's time that Shimla was truly acquired by the Government of India. The British persuaded the local Raja to part with the land in 1830, and the settlement became the subcontinent's most fashionable summer resort. In 1864, Shimla was declared the summer capital of India. After the independence of India, Shimla became the capital of Punjab until 1966, when it came under Himachal Pradesh.

SITES TO VISIT
Ridge
The Ridge is one place in Shimla where you must spend at least a couple of hours in a day, basking in the lazy sun. You won't be alone though, for the Ridge is perpetually swarming with the young and the old, out for a chitter-chatter stroll, a plate-full of chaat or a few shutterbug clicks of poses against the distant peaks.

Lakkad Bazaar
Find this world of wooden marvels right below the ridge. Lakkad Bazaar offers anything and everything you can imagine carved out of wood. From key chains, walking sticks, massagers, toys and jewellery boxes to sailor's wheels, planters and stationary holders - Lakkad Bazaar gives you plenty to pick from and take back home for friends and relatives, without flattening your wallets.

St Michael’s
St Michael's Cathedral is a stained-glass masterpiece. Once considered the finest cathedral in India, it depicts Hope, Faith, Patience and Humility.

Institute of Advanced Studies
Built in 1888, the institute was originally the Viceregal Lodge. It's a magnificent English Renaissance grey-stone edifice set admist beautiful gardens and lawns. Entry is by ticket. The grounds are open for visitors only on Sundays.

Tara Devi Temple
Situated atop a hill, Tara Devi leaves visitors gasping at the panoramic views. Built amidst oak and rhododendrons, it is accessible by road, rail and by foot.

SITES NEARBY

Naldhera
Naldhera, with its brilliant green landscape and dappled sunlight, is a recreational getaway 22 km from Shimla. You'll find charming log huts and also regular rooms. The Golf Course and the cedar forest (for its heavenly treks and pretty picnic spots) are the main attractions here. The log huts (HPTDC) cost between Rs 800 and Rs 1,000 (Tel: 487 809). The nearby Golf Glade Hotel offers rooms at the same cost.

Chail
Visit the highest cricket pitch and the highest polo ground in the world in Chail. Once the summer capital of Patiala, the town is worth a day's tour. Located 45 km from Shimla (via Kufri).

Fagu
Situated along the National Highway, about 22 km from Shimla, Fagu offers pleasant views of the distant Himalayas along with some fun treks. Include a trip to the Deshumata Temple in your visit to Fagu. You will be lured to the apple orchards simply by their sweet fragrance.

Kufri
Kufri is a half-hour's drive out of Shimla (12 km). Loaded with hundreds of picnic and look-out points, it even has a deer park. Something else you'll find in abundance here are the quaint souvenir shops. The Kufri slopes are a hot favourite with snow seekers.

Narkanda
Narkanda, 64 km from Shimla, offers wonderful slopes for skiing. At an elevation of 2708 m, it has dense pine forests. Hatu peak, 8 km from Narkanda, provides a striking panorama of the plains below.

Sarahan
Sarahan is a small village worth visiting. It provides a spectacular view of Shrikhand Mahadev (5224 m) and hiking opportunities to the nearby villages such as Ranwin and Bashal Peak. The Bhimakali temple, dedicated to Goddess Durga, is the finest example of Himachali architecture.

Tattapani
Tattapani (STD Code 0117), 51 km from Shimla, is a spot well known for hot sulfurous springs.

Shimla (Place for Adventure Activities)
In Shimla one can go to Kullu from Shimla And Sarahan to Sangla for a Trekking Some other treks are to the Shalipeak, to the Kullu valley, Shimla to Chail, Shimla to Junga and Shimla to Tattapani. Angling for trout can be done on the river Pabbar, near Rohru. Skiing is possible at Narkanda and Kufri (January–mid-March). Naldehra also offers a well-groomed nine-hole golf course.

Travel Information

By Air : Shimla Airport is 23 kms from the city connected by daily flights from Delhi and Kullu.

By Rail : Broadguage Railway line upto Kalka connecting Delhi,Calcutta and Amritsar. Kalka to Shimla (95 kms.) by Narrow gauge railway.

By Road : Well connected with Kalka. Chandigarh,Delhi, Amritsar and Jammu etc.

Shimla( Places to Stay)
There are so many hotels & guest house are located in Shimla which suits to the budge of every Travellers. The Mall is the best site for entertainment.

Shimla(Facts & Figure)
Languages :
Hindi, Himachali, English
Best Time to Visit : May–July and September–November
STD : 0177

Hill Resports in Coonoor

Hotel Name : TAJ GARDEN RETREAT
Star Category : 5 Star (Government Approved)
Address : Church Road,
Upper Conoor
City : Coonoor
PinCode : 643 101
State : Tamil Nadu

Access :

72 kms. from Coimbatore by road and rail.
Number of rooms : 33
Other Facilities :
24 hrs. Room Service, Safe Deposit Locker, Laundry/Dry Cleaning – 24 hrs. Pure water supply, Doctor on Call, Business Center, Fax/Telex/STD/ISD Dialling Facility, Car Parking, Tennis, Table Tennis, Carroms, Chess, Badminton (Outdoor), Golf putting Green

Coonoor - Hill Station

INTRODUCTION
Coonoor is a fabulous hill station in the Nilgiri hills about 19 km from Ooty. Coonoor, located at an altitude of 1,856 metres, is the second largestCoonoor Hill Station,Coonoor hill station tours hill station in the Nilgiri hills.The Sim's Park with all its natural beauty was constructed in 1874 has unique trees and plants. Facinating and unforgetable view points for tourist are Lamb's Rock, Dolphin's Nose, Lady Canning's Seat to name a few.Tourist can avail of the Toy train facility to get a detailed view of this place.

VISITING TIME
Though Coonoor has a beautiful weather but even then it is best to visit this place between the months of October and March.

HISTORY
Britishers developed Ooty as a very popular hill station for them to avoid the devastating Indian summer. But,soon Ooty became a popular tourist spot and lost its charm by the high traffic of visitors visiting the place.Soon a need was felt to have another eqally beatiful hill station.This gave birth to Coonoor.The grassy meadows, lovely sunflowers, marigolds and rhododendrons became a benchmark for this beautiful hill station.


The Toda tribes belong to this region.

TOURIST SPOTS

Sim's Park - This is a beautiful park famous for vivid varieties of fruits.Thus, it is a very important site for the tourists.

Lamb's Rock - It is a splendid landscape having beautiful carvings imposed on it.It is on the way to the dolphine nose.

Dolphine Nose - This is a dolphine shaped unbelievable rock which should undoubtedely visited by tourists. From this point the tourists can view almost the whole expansion of the beautiful Nilgiri hills. Catherine Falls can be viewed from here.This famous point is about 10 km away from Coonoor.

Kotagiri - This place is about 21 kms from Coonoor.It is famous for Coffee plantations, Elk Falls, Rangaswamy Pillar and Peak, Kodanand view point.

Other places important places near Coonoor are Lady Canning's seat, the Pomological Station and the Ralliah Dam.

Coonoor’s has many hillocks which are perfect for trekking.This place attracts tourists for birdwatching as an extensive variety of birds can be spotted at the Nilgiris. Various species of vultures, eagles and owls, song birds like bulbuls, thrushes, babblers, larks, cuckoos, robins and several others act as melodious music for the visitors who are accustomed to the huzzle and buzzzle of city sound pollution.Coonoor has a number of perfect picnic spots.

FESTIVALS
Tea Coffee festival during the winters and fruits & vegetable festival arranged during the month of May are quite fasinating for the tourists.

COMMUNICATION

By Air: Coimbatore airport is nearest to Coonoor, it has daily flights to and from Madras, Bangalore, Cochin and Trivandrum.

By Rail: Toy train route between Mettupalayam and Ooty has Coonoor in its route.Another alternative is from Coimbatore, it takes around 3 hrs to Coonoor.

By Road: Regular bus services from Coimbatore,Ooty and Kotagiri makes Coonoor well connected.

Population : 52,000
Languages : The localites use Tamil and English
Best Time to Visit : Suitable season for tourist visit is during October, March
Std : 0423
 
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