Famous Lakes in Karnataka

 Karnataka, a state in southern India, is known for its beautiful lakes that attract tourists and provide recreational activities. Here are some of the famous lakes in Karnataka along with their details:

1. Hussain Sagar Lake: Located in Hyderabad, Telangana (which was previously part of Karnataka), Hussain Sagar Lake is a man-made lake built during the reign of Ibrahim Quli Qutb Shah in 1563. It is one of the largest man-made lakes in Asia and is famous for its iconic Buddha statue installed in the middle of the lake.

2. Ulsoor Lake: Situated in the heart of Bangalore (Bengaluru), Ulsoor Lake is one of the most popular and oldest lakes in the city. Spread across an area of approximately 125 acres, it offers boating facilities and a picturesque environment. The lake is surrounded by a lush green landscape, making it a pleasant spot for picnics and leisurely walks.

3. Agara Lake: Located in the southeastern part of Bangalore, Agara Lake is a serene water body that spans an area of about 98 acres. It is known for its natural beauty, migratory bird sightings, and the surrounding lush greenery. The lake also features a jogging track and is a popular spot for morning and evening walks.

4. Karanji Lake: Situated in Mysore (Mysuru), Karanji Lake is a picturesque water body that spans around 90 acres. It is known for its rich avian population, including migratory birds. The lake is surrounded by a beautiful park, which is home to a butterfly park, a walk-through aviary, and a boating facility, making it a popular tourist destination.

5. Lumbini Gardens: Located on the banks of Nagawara Lake in Bangalore, Lumbini Gardens is a popular recreational spot for both locals and tourists. While Nagawara Lake is an artificial lake, Lumbini Gardens offers various attractions such as a boating facility, wave pool, musical fountain, and children's play area.

6. Devanahalli Lake: Situated in Devanahalli, near Bangalore, Devanahalli Lake is a significant water body known for its historical and ecological importance. The lake is associated with the birthplace of Tipu Sultan, a famous ruler of the Kingdom of Mysore. It attracts migratory birds and is an ideal place for nature lovers.

These are just a few examples of the famous lakes in Karnataka. The state offers several other beautiful lakes like Hebbal Lake, Sankey Tank, Bellandur Lake, and more. Each lake has its own unique features and attractions, providing visitors with opportunities for relaxation, boating, birdwatching, and enjoying the natural surroundings.

Famous Lakes in Kerala

 Kerala, a state located in the southwestern part of India, is known for its picturesque lakes that attract tourists from around the world. Here are some famous lakes in Kerala along with a brief description:

1. Vembanad Lake: Vembanad Lake is the largest lake in Kerala and one of the longest lakes in India. It is located in the districts of Alappuzha, Kottayam, and Ernakulam. The lake is known for its serene backwaters, houseboat cruises, and traditional boat races, especially the Nehru Trophy Boat Race held annually.

2. Ashtamudi Lake: Ashtamudi Lake is another significant backwater lake located in the Kollam district of Kerala. It is known for its eight branches (hence the name "Ashtamudi," meaning eight-armed), lush green surroundings, and traditional houseboat cruises. The lake is a haven for migratory birds and offers stunning views of the sunset.

3. Punnamada Lake: Punnamada Lake is located in Alappuzha district and is famous for hosting the globally renowned Nehru Trophy Boat Race. The lake is a part of the Vembanad Lake network and offers mesmerizing views of the backwaters, coconut palm-fringed shores, and traditional village life.

4. Sasthamcotta Lake: Sasthamcotta Lake, situated in the Kollam district, is the largest freshwater lake in Kerala. The lake is revered for its religious significance, as it is believed to have medicinal properties. It attracts devotees who come to take a dip in its waters during the annual Sasthamcotta Sree Dharma Sastha Temple festival.

5. Pookode Lake: Pookode Lake is a scenic freshwater lake located in Wayanad district. Surrounded by lush greenery and forests, the lake is a popular tourist spot offering activities like boating, wildlife sightings, and nature walks. It is also known for its blue lotus flowers and has a freshwater aquarium nearby.

6. Vellayani Lake: Vellayani Lake, situated near Thiruvananthapuram, is the largest freshwater lake in Thiruvananthapuram district. The lake is renowned for its beauty, especially during the Onam festival when the traditional boat race takes place here. It is also a favorite spot for picnics and birdwatching.

These are just a few examples of the famous lakes in Kerala. The state is blessed with several other captivating lakes that offer breathtaking views and unique experiences. Each lake has its own charm and cultural significance, making Kerala a must-visit destination for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility amidst scenic surroundings.

Badrinath temple history. Badrinath temple tour. How to reach Badrinath Temple

 Badrinath Temple, located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, India, is one of the most revered Hindu temples and a significant pilgrimage site for followers of Lord Vishnu. Here is a brief history of the Badrinath Temple and a tour guide on how to reach there:

History of Badrinath Temple:

According to Hindu mythology, the Badrinath Temple is associated with Lord Vishnu and holds great significance in the epic Mahabharata. It is believed that the Pandavas, after the Kurukshetra War, sought Lord Vishnu's blessings to atone for their sins. Lord Vishnu disguised himself as a hermit, meditating in the Badrinath region. The Pandavas recognized him and sought his blessings. Lord Vishnu revealed his true form as Badrinarayan and blessed them. The current temple is said to have been established by Adi Shankaracharya, a revered Hindu philosopher, in the 9th century.

Tour Guide: How to Reach Badrinath Temple:

Reaching Badrinath Temple involves a multi-step journey as it is located in the Himalayas at an altitude of approximately 3,133 meters (10,279 feet). Here is a tour guide on how to reach the temple:

1. By Air:

The nearest airport to Badrinath is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is well-connected to major cities in India. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Badrinath. The distance between Dehradun and Badrinath is around 320 kilometers.

2. By Train:

The nearest major railhead to Badrinath is Rishikesh Railway Station, which is well-connected to major cities in India. From Rishikesh, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Badrinath. The distance between Rishikesh and Badrinath is approximately 297 kilometers.

3. By Road:

Roadways are the most common mode of transportation to reach Badrinath. Badrinath is well-connected by motorable roads to major cities and towns in Uttarakhand. Regular bus services and taxis are available from Rishikesh, Haridwar, and other nearby towns. The route from Rishikesh to Badrinath passes through beautiful towns like Joshimath, Govindghat, and Mana Village.

4. Trekking:

For those seeking an adventurous journey, there is an option to trek to Badrinath. The popular trekking route is from Gaurikund to Badrinath, passing through picturesque locations like Kedarnath, Ghangaria, and Hemkund Sahib. This trek is known as the Valley of Flowers trek and is a popular choice for nature enthusiasts.

It is important to note that the temple remains closed for six months during winter due to heavy snowfall, generally from November to April. The temple reopens in April/May, depending on the Hindu calendar. It is advisable to plan your visit during the summer months (May to June) or the early autumn season (September to October) to avoid extreme weather conditions.

While visiting Badrinath Temple, it is essential to respect the religious customs and follow the guidelines set by the temple authorities. It is advisable to carry warm clothing, comfortable shoes, and essential medication due to the high altitude.

Badrinath Temple is not just a place of religious importance but also offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas, serene surroundings, and a spiritual ambiance. The journey to Badrinath is considered a significant pilgrimage, allowing devotees to connect with their faith and immerse themselves in the awe-inspiring beauty of nature.