Wayanad is a district located in the north-east region of the Indian state of Kerala, at the southernmost tip of the Deccan Plateau.It is known for its cool highland climate, misty peaks and its virgin forests. Wayanad also played a prominent role in the history of the subcontinent. It is often called the spice garden of the south, the land of paddy fields, and the home of the monsoons.
An incredibly breathtaking example of Indo – Saracenic style of architecture, the Mysore Palace is a magnificent edifice located in Mysore in the state of Karnataka. Also known as the Amba Vilas Palace, it is the former palace of the royal family of Mysore and is still their official residence. Referred to as the ‘City of Palaces’, Mysore houses seven other places, but none come close to awe – inspiring grandeur of this palace. Mysore Palace was built in the year 1912 for the 24th Ruler of the Wodeyar Dynasty and is counted amongst one of the biggest palaces in the country.
Hampi is one of the UNESCO world heritage sites, but how many of us actually know what is the history behind the small place located in the city of Karnataka? There are a great many tales related to the town of Hampi with as many interesting facts about the city, which calls upon all history enthusiasts to pursue its intriguing ruins.
The city is filled with ancient temples, dating back to the Vijayanagara Empire. You will be amazed to know that this city is the seat of the empire which flourished in the 16th century. Hampi has been in existence since the Mauryan Empire and has seen a lot of changes ever since, making it instrumental to the course of India’s history.
John Daniel Munro introduced the world to Munnar in the 1870s. He came across the place by accident. As the British Resident of Travancore kingdom, he was called in to solve a border dispute between Travancore and its neighbour Madras. He fell in love with this new found area immediately. Though the Munnar region fell under the jurisdiction of the Travancore kingdom, it was the jenmam (birth) land of the Poonjar Royal Family. Since it was a ‘jenmam land’, the royal family enjoyed absolute powers over the land as the landlord. Munro convinced the royal family to lease the land to him and started transforming the area. Munro formed the North Travancore Land Planting & Agricultural Society in 1879. They started the cultivation of crops, including coffee, cardamom, cinchona and sisal in various parts of the region.
Amidst the glory of the splendid blue-hued Nilgiri Mountains in Tamil Nadu, lies the fascinating little town of Ooty. The quaint green paths, overshadowed by towering pine trees, reminds one of an English countryside. The charming colonial-era bungalows take you back to the British era. In contrast, the bustling town center consists of chaotic streets, busy markets and throngs of tourists. Over the years, Ooty has developed as one of the major retreats in South India. The town attracts people from all walks of life, from newlyweds to families looking for a weekend getaway. The Botanical Garden and Rose Garden are home to thousands of species of flora. The boat house at the pristine Ooty Lake provides breathtaking views and even features a mini train. If you are curious about the process that your favorite tea undergoes before reaching the shelves, do visit the Dodabetta Tea Factory. The irresistible aroma of the freshly brewed tea can be sensed from a distance. Also, make sure that your shopping bags contain a box full of delicious chocolates from Ooty, en route your home.