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Corporate June 2016 • VOLUME 5 • ISSUE 6 • ` 50

Paris: always a good idea God’s own country Velavadar Blackbuck National Park

June 2016 | Corporate Outbound 1 Contents 20

Other Stories

04 Aviation News

06 Hospitality News

14 Kerala- God’s Own Country Managing Editor: Anurag Gupta Editorial: Garima Singhal Marketing: Don Jose Creative: Raj Toppo Weekend Getaway- Printed, Published & Owned by 20 Anurag Gupta @ 348, Amarjyoti Layout, Domlur Bangalore - 560 071 Ph: +91 80 41224331 Email: [email protected] 24 Velavadar Blackbuck Printed at National Park Cosmos Printers & Publishers, Wilson Garden, Bangalore - 560 027 28 State Tourism News 14 08

Paris always a good idea!!!!

2 Corporate Outbound | June 2016 June 2016 | Corporate Outbound 3 Buzz Aviation

Air Express expands its network in the China Eastern Airlines will launch a daily flight Air India launched additional flight services on Fly Scoot from Amritsar to Singapore Middle East with the launch of new flights from from Hangzhou to Kolkata its Delhi-Surat route to Dubai and Doha. preading its wings to India, Scoot launches services tarting soon the new service will depart ir India will add two more weekly flights on the from Singapore to Amritsar (fares starting Rs 4700 one way) and Singapore to (fares starting Rs 5700 he airline has already doubled its capacity Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport route, operating every Thursday and Sunday, using S an ATR turboprop aircraft. Flight AI 9607 will depart one way). Scoot’s service to Amritsar commences three on the Kozhikode-Dubai route by introduc- at 1905, arriving at Kolkata’s Netaji Sub- A times weekly and will increase frequency with an additional Delhi at 0525 on both days of the week and arrive in S Monday service from July, restarting the Singapore-Amritsar ing a second flight. This new flight will leave hash Chandra Bose International Airport at 0210 Surat at 0755. The return flight, AI 9608, will take off from T Surat at 0825 and arrive back to Delhi at 1110.Presently; route for the SIA Group. Kozhikode at 0910 and reaches Dubai at 1135. The the next day. The return service will then leave return flight then leaves Dubai at 1700 and arrives Kolkata at 0300 and arrives back in Hangzhou the airline operates a Bombardier CRJ-700 aircraft on the back in Kozhikode at 2230. at 0955. China Eastern will deploy a single-aisle route five times a week, every Monday, Tuesday, Wednes- day, Friday and Saturday. So the extra flights will mean Air Airbus A320 aircraft on the route. The new route India operates daily flights on the route. Air India Express has also introduced another daily will make a stop in Kunming, southwest China, flight on the Kozhikode-Doha sector. This flight in both directions. This marks an extension of will leave Kozhikode at 1145 and arrive in Doha at the existing Kunming-Kolkata route which China 1325. The return flight will depart the Qatari capi- Eastern first launched in 2007. tal at 1420 and arrive back in Kozhikode at 2110.

Vistara increases frequency of its Delhi-Guwahati route Air India connects Bhopal with Pune via Raipur he airline launched a new daily point-to-point service on the route. Flights will depart Delhi at 1340 and ir India boosts regional connectivity by commencing arrive in Guwahati at 1600. The flight will return from operations to Pune via Raipur from Bhopal. Flight AI T 9865 will ply on the route Bhopal-Raipur-Pune thrice Guwahati at 1635 and arrive back in Delhi at 1900. A a week on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. The flight will At present, Vistara operates a triangular route connecting leave Bhopal at 0845 hrs and land at Raipur at 1015 hrs, will Delhi with Guwahati and Bagdogra, so the new service will depart from Raipur at 1045 hrs and arrive in to Pune at 1300 offer the first non-stop connection from Guwahati to Delhi. hrs. The return flight AI 9866 will leave Pune at 1330 hrs and Passengers in Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad reach Raipur at 1545 hrs, depart Raipur at 1615 hrs and will and Srinagar will be offered one-stop connections to touch down at Bhopal at 1745 hrs. Guwahati, via Delhi.

4 Corporate Outbound | June 2016 June 2016 | Corporate Outbound 5 Buzz Hospitality Sarovar Hotels launch Seyfert Sarovar Portico in Shangri-La Hotels & Resorts launches new Dehradun meetings and events loyalty programme for trade partners arovar Hotels Pvt. Ltd. has launched Seyfert Sarovar Portico, Dehradun, a contemporary and upscale. hangri-La Hotels and Resorts launched Shangri-La Events SThe hotel brings to the city exceptional facilities and Collection and Golden Circle Event Planner Rewards, an houses the largest banquet in the city in terms of capacity industry-leading meeting and events loyalty programme and size covering 10,000 square feet. Located close to Deh- S for meeting and travel professionals. This programme will radun’s Airport, bus stand and railway station, the hotel is offer meeting and travel professionals and any Golden Circle conveniently accessible to guests. The hotel also brings the member the ability to earn elite status choicest of bites to its guests at Café Travertine, an all-day as well as earn and redeem points for multi-cuisine restaurant with live counters and a poolside groups, meetings, conferences and events banquet lawn covering 23,000 square feet for social gather- across the Shangri-La, Kerry and Hotel ings. Whether it’s a corporate event, a social event or a Jen portfolio. Golden Circle Event Plan- private occasion, Seyfert Sarovar Portico, Dehradun, helps ner Rewards offers the highest level of you host a seamless event managed by professionals. rewards of any meetings and events loy- alty programme. Planners can earn up to Svatma, a restored family mansion at Tanjavur, 40,000 Golden Circle Points on an event Tamil Nadu, has been transformed into a bou- booking – the equivalent of 40 compli- mentary room nights. In addition, it is the tique hotel. only programme that allows members to earn double points for any subsequent n the city of UNESCO world Heritage Chola Temples, meetings or events booked in the same birthplace of Tanjore Paintings, classical dance calendar year. IBhartnatyam and Carnatic Music this 38-room hotel offers three restaurants, a spa, swimming pool, yoga cen- tre, library and facilities for private dining and events. The New addition to WelcomHeritage property will also offer its guests a series of cultural activi- ties, including visits to temples, culinary classes, dance launched WelcomHeritage Mani demonstrations, and traditional painting, bronze casting Mansion, a Heritage Hotel in and weaving demonstrations. The property is accessible by Ahmedabad air from Chennai or Trichy airports and by train. elcom Heritage has launched a new property, Clarks Inn Suites Gwalior is now open Mani Mansion under its portfolio of Heritage Ho- Wtels recently.Mani Mansion a 94 year old heritage property that was once home to the Dalal family located on modern and contemporary hotel, Clarks Inn Suites Golden Tulip Hotels launches its first service the Ashram road in the heart of the city is a boutique herit- Gwalior recently launched by Clarks Inn Group of age hotel with 21 rooms and suites providing an experience apartment facility in Bhiwadi Hotels is a four star hotel offering luxury amenities A of ancient era and yet equipped with modern facilities. and services; the hotel is situated in the heart of the city. olden Tulip Hotels has launched their first Service The hotel is just 2 km away from railway station/bus sta- The hotel offers a multi-cuisine Restaurant serving an array Apartment facility at Bhiwadi, Haryana catering tion, 8 km from airport and is adjacent to shopping mall. of food options including authentic Gujarati cuisine pre- to growing demand for small to longer duration The hotel comprises 60 centrally air-conditioned contem- G pared by chefs who have been associated with the family stay demand of expatriates coming to the city which is an porary rooms (1 Royale Suite, 3 Premiere Suites, 6 Execu- since past 2 generations thus giving a taste of true Gujarati industrial hub with lot of Japanese investments. tive Suites and 50 Executive Rooms), out of which 33 rooms culinary expertise. Hotel has well-furnished 16 service apartments along offer the Gwalior Fort view. An 8500 sq. ft. terrace provides with kitchens which are equipped with all the mod- guests with the most versatile venue for meetings and From an ancestral Mansion, it has been suitably modified as ern amenities to comfort the customers looking out social gatherings, with state of the art conferencing equip- one of the city’s finest heritage hotel. for a long stay. The hotel also has multiple options for ment’s. Among the F&B offerings, the hotel includes The fine dining. Golden Tulip Bhiwadi has kept in mind the Bridge, with live kitchen. Fort view restaurant overlooking requirements of contemporary businesses hence they a verdant courtyard, serves a variety of nutrimental, Asian have built a modern set up of the conference room with and Indian preparations including Bar-be-que, Mughlai, latest technologies and a banquet hall which caters to Maratha and Nepalese delicacies. Café lounge is a 32 cover MICE, wedding or any other functions. The hotel has a fine lounge located on fourth floor. ‘Japanese Concierge Services’ specially designed for their Japanese expats arranging tours, accommodation and other facilities.

6 Corporate Outbound | June 2016 June 2016 | Corporate Outbound 7 Paris Skyline Featured

Paris: is always a good idea!! We’ll always have PARIS. Enough and more has been written about this for the traveler, the seeker of the arts, the student of fashion, the apprentice of gastronomy, What to see the connoisseur of the written word and much, much more that this Paris is also one of the most visited cities in the world. It is home to unique conurbation stands for. some of the most iconic and well-known monuments and buildings in the world. This city is an architectural wonder in itself, without even taking into account the pieces of architecture that litter the city around lso known as the city of light, both for its leading every corner. The , which looks like steel and lace entwined, role during the religious Age of Enlightenment the 12th century Notre Dame cathedral with its imposing gargoyles Aand more literally, because it is the first European peering down at your from moving heights, the Sainte-Chapelle from city to adopt gas street lighting, Paris is situated on both the 13th century, the Basilica of Sacré-Coeur on the hill of . the banks of the river and located in the north Also of significant interest are the Chapel of Our Lady of the Miracu- of , it is in the center of the Île-de-France, or the lous Medal, The Grand of Paris, the , the Paris region parisienne. It is named after its 3rd century BC opera house, the Romanesque church of the Abbey of Saint-Germain- founders of the Celtic origins, the Parisii, a sub tribe of des-Prés, the Gothic Basilica of Saint-Denis, the Baroque churches the Celtic Senones, and retains the nearly two-century- of Saint-Paul-Saint-Louis, neoclassical church of La Madeleine, Les old administrative boundaries. Invalides, which houses ’s tomb and many more.

8 Corporate Outbound | June 2016 June 2016 | Corporate Outbound 9 Boat on Seine Farmer’s market

plaza eiffel

Home of the artists and their art Eiffel tower

Paris is also home to the most visited art museum in the world, the , which is along the historical axis of the of Paris, through the , the Luxor Column in the , as well as the Musée d’Orsay, noted for its collection of Louvre French impressionist art, and the Musée National d’Art Invalides Moderne, a museum of modern and contemporary art.

French food and wine, some of the best in the world

But Paris is so much more than the historical monu- ments and architecture. It is about the culture, food and people of the city that make it what it is. Dinner along the Seine is one of the most exciting experiences to be had in the world. Find a little bistro that serves exciting pairings of cheese and wine, like the Verjus Wine Bar near the Palais Royal or just buy a crepe Nutella from the nearest vendor and just walk along the historical river, enjoying the Parisian river breeze as boats and ferries pass you by. Splurge a little and enter a fine dining restaurant at Loiseau Rive Droite, recently renamed from Tante Louise. This restaurant, founded in 1929 has the old world art-deco charm, and even the signage and menus, and is right next to Madeline and chic luxury shops like Cartier and Hermes. Eating at this restaurant will make you feel like a grown up, the kind of grown up that slows down and goes out for an exqui- site meal every once in a while. Brasserie Lola opened their second vegan restaurant in the Etienne Marcel/ Montorgueil neighborhood. Drink at Wine by One, a great place to try over a hundred types of French wines at the Rue des Capucines. Paris is a great city to brunch on Sunday. Brunch places about, serving the best brunch fare there is. Most of them a stone’s throw from the canals of the River Seine, they offer magnificent views and make Sundays unbelievable again.

10 Corporate Outbound | June 2016 June 2016 | Corporate Outbound 11 Kid friendly city

Paris is also a very child friendly city and there is much to do, which supersedes just going to Disneyland. Ride the Line1 of the metro, wait on the far right of the platform and get a front row seat on the driverless metro car. Pick up a metro map and help your kids discover the route. If you wish to be above the ground, ride the bus. Take a River Seine tour on a boat, which leave typically every hour or so. Go to a park, which are literally all over the city, and let your child run into other kids who are there. The playground at Jardinde’Luxembourg is one of the best. Luxembourg and Tuileries also have sailboats for the ponds. Trampolines at Tuileries and air sculptures will keep your child entertained.

From Left to Right: Theater of Champ Elyses, Express Info Notre Dame, Mont Martre Connectivity : Air India and Air France fly directly to the Charles de Gaulle airport. All major airlines fly to Paris via codeshare. Currency – 1 Euro= 75.5 INR . The cost of living in Paris is fairly high, with a pint of beer going for as high as Offbeat Saint Denis, and they are called L’Histoired’une Fleur at Euro 10. number 152. Fresh flowers, and great if you are near the Accomodation: There are some beautiful Air BNBs The city of lights twinkles in the night. The night is a great 2nd arrondissement or Etienne Marcel. Hotel Mathis has a and hostels as well as deluxe hotels dotted across the time to discover Paris passages or even areas that are less splendid bar for cocktails on the Champs Elysees if you want city. The fare per night can range between Euro 40 for known, such as Belleville or trek to the 18th arrondissement, something swank and are willing to splurge a little. If you shared hostel dormitory rooms. and spend some time wandering around the ‘bad’ neigh- have access to a kitchen at your friend’s house, at L’Épicerie Getting around: The easiest way to get around in Paris borhood of La Goutte D’or, where you will find some of the des Environs, you’ll find local produce and a version of nearly is the metro and the buses. Taxis can be expensive, so best roasts and the coffee shop Café Lomi, right across from everything to make a delicious dinner. Fruits and vegetables, planning excursions based on the timing on the metro the most artistic graffiti wall that hides an old factory. Or rice from Camargue, pickles from Burgundy, fruity sorbet is easier on the pocket. If you are planning to stay for just carry a picnic basket to the Tuileries and watch the Tour from Essonne. Rue Cremieux has that colorful street that a longer time, buying a long-term metro-bus-tram Eiffel come alive at 10 pm with twinkling lights dancing up every Parisian photographer loves to photograph, and hope- transferrable pass from the central metro station is and down the metal lace and hear the collective gasp that fully, you will wander there too. Out of the ancient and prop- useful. Also, Paris is one of the most walk able cities in emanates from the mere human populace in front of this er 17th arrondissement at Place du Docteur Felix Lobligeois the world. majestic spectacle. comes a new wind and it smells of young, fresh coffee. Dose, Visa: One needs to apply visa before going to France. dealer de café is an urban, cool coffee shop, cut from simple, The approx cost of visa is 4500 INR. One of the most beautiful flower shops is hidden on Rue clean pine and laid with beautiful blue tiles.

12 Corporate Outbound | June 2016 June 2016 | Corporate Outbound 13 Featured

KeralaGod’s own country

Being a heavily water dependent state, with the Arabian sea on the West and over 40 rivers and their tributaries crisscrossing through the state, and nestled in the bosom of the , Kerala enjoys unique geographical features that have made it one of the most sought after tourist destination in the country and in Asia.

he state has been blessed with a moderate climate, a serene and long coastline with many people-friendly and scenic beaches, tranquil green Tbackwaters (the estuaries and deltas formed by the forty many rivers of the state which form a massive network, particularly in the region), lush mountains and hillsides, exotic flora and fauna biodiversity, tea and coffee plan- tations, sprawling paddy fields with resident pisciculture, enchanting art, culture, festivals, historical monuments, exciting cuisine teaming with the goodness of the sea, a rich tradition of Ayurvedic treatments, and all these destinations within two hours of driving distance from each other. The amalgamation of these and many more makes Kerala a must visit destination with a singular advantage that is not found anywhere else.

History:

The state is closely linked with commerce, being a major seaport, and up until recently, was closely linked with the spice trade. This is also the spice state of India, and in the past, has played host to travellers and traders from across the world. During the colonial times, it was heavily visited by the Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Chinese, Portugese, Dutch, French and the British, but largely occupied by the Dutch. Regardless, all the invaders left an indelible mark on this land, be it architecture, cuisine, art, or literature. From Kannur in the north all the way to Thiruvanathapuram in the south, the cities are littered with these monuments standing tall, telling the stories of their trading and colonial history. Beach

14 Corporate Outbound | June 2016 June 2016 | Corporate Outbound 15 - the Lord Krishna, it is one of the most important places of worship for the Hindus. It is often referred to as the Bhooloka Vaikuntha, or Heaven on earth, or the holy abode of Lord Vishnu or Krishna on Earth. The historic temple is shrouded in mys- tery. According to belief, the temple is the creation of the Guru, the preceptor of Gods and Vayu, the God of the winds.

Further south, one reaches the town of Ernakulam, which is the hometown of the Dutch cemetery. The tombstones here are the most authentic records of the hundreds of Europeans who left their homeland and changed the course and his- tory of this land. Also in Fort Kochi is Synagogue of Mattanacherry or the Paradesi synagogue, which is the oldest building in the commonwealth. Destroyed and rebuilt by the Dutch, hand painted, willow patterned floor tiles and clock tower, the Hebrew inscriptions; scrolls of the Old Testament are articles of interest here. This is one of the seven synagogues of the Malabar Yehudan, or Yehudan Mapilla people of Cochin. The term Paradesi is derived from many Indian languages, which means ‘foreigners’, because the synagogue was build by the Sephardic of Spanish speaking Jews. The synagogue is located in the quarter of Old Cochin known as Jew Town. The streets of Jew town are littered with shops and stalls selling Jewish arte-facts, traditional arts and crafts of Kerala and many other visual and foodie delights.

Sampaloor, a small town by the is known as the Goa of Kerala. Close to the towns of , Alapuzha and Cochin, this place witnessed the ar- rival of series of Clergy. The first to arrive was St. Francis Xavier, who came a place located in Kodungalloorr (muziris). This town has since been the centre for Jesuit Missionary and here stand the St. Paul’s Monastery, St. Paul’s Press and the St. Fran- cis Xavier’s church. These were largely destroyed by the invader Tipu Sultan from Karnataka, who used cannon balls, which destroyed the holy vestments of the mon- astery, old liturgical tablets and instruments used to make the host. Many of these arte-facts such as Tabernacle of the old church, statues of saints made of wood and metals, Lamps used for adoration, lamp-sticks, the Cross made of metal belongs to 15Th century and ''Vazhuthayodukal" of the same century are some of the attrac- tions of this Museum which stands in place of the Cathedral now. ]

Thalassery lighthouse Odathil Mosque- Kannur

What to see: and opening to the sea give the fort an aura.

Each city of Kerala is unique in the experience it offers you, The Mattanacherry Dutch palace found in Ernakulam, near but at the same time, very much bound together by the fort Kochi was presented by Raja Ravi Veera Varma of Kochi same feeling of happiness and goodwill that it promotes. It is to the Dutch. The palace has a Bhagavathi, or goddess temple ideal to find enough time to travel the state and being able to in the central courtyard and is built in the traditional Kerala see the various sights that the state offers. Start in the north style mansion, or the home of the aristocracy. It offers a panoramic view of the Kochi backwaters and has an exquisite at Kannur. A massive triangular laterite fort, the St. Angelo St.Angelo Fort- Kannur Fort is the leftover from the times of the Dutch colonization. collection of murals from the epics of Ramayana and Mahab- The fort was later seized by the British and became their harata. most important military station in the Malabar region. The views of the Moppila Bay and Dharmadom Island can be seen Religious establishments: from here and a sea wall separates the rough sea from the inland water. The Odathil Palli Mosque in Thalassery is a 500-year-old mosque located in the old town of Thalassery, 20 kms from Also in Kannur is the Thalassery fort, 22 km north of the city Kannur. This was built by an Arab merchant in the typical in the small town of Thalassery where the exotic art form of Kerala Hindu temple style. This mosque has neither domes Theyyam originated. The fort was the settlement of the East nor and is not open to non-Muslims. India Company in the Malabar region, and is a testament to their imperialism and also served as the nucleus for the de- As one starts to travel south from Kannur, one comes upon velopment of the town. Doors, secret pass ways and tunnels the majestic temple. A Hindu temple dedicated to

16 Corporate Outbound | June 2016 June 2016 | Corporate Outbound 17 for centuries. Here, it is not an alternative form of From Left to Right: Beachy beach towns! Thalassery, Fort Kochi sea-food treatment, but rather mainstream and is practiced shack,Heritage art museum- Kochi The state of Kerala has an unbroken coastline, which means with absolute dedication. Being the only resort of many beautiful, quiet, secluded, white sandy beaches, which treatment for the people, the Vaidyars of Kerala were attract tourists and locals equally throughout the year. The challenged to interpret the theories of Ayurveda and Payyambalam, Meenkunnu and Kizhunna beaches in Kannur, adapt them actively into effective healing systems which slightly rocky coastline that washed up molluscs and in everyday life. Thus almost all the contemporary crustaceans in abundance and is spotted with blowholes, are procedures and protocols of Ayurveda have evolved Express Info some of the windiest beaches in the south of India. The Payy- in and around Kerala. ambalam is different in that it is a beautiful stretch of sea and The major cities in Kerala include Trivandrum (Thiru- sand and surf, and offers the best locale for a relaxed evening The artistic traditions of Kerala: vananthapuram), Cochin (Kochi/Ernakulam), Kannur, and jaw dropping sunsets. Thrissur, Kozhikode and many others. All these towns are very close to each other in the small state and eas- Kerala has a rich custom and tradition of various art ily connected by road and train. The Beach in Thrissur is a delight for the sore city forms, which include performing arts such as several eyes. This easy to access beach is famous for the Azhimu- classical and semi classical dance forms, some of which is a little distance from the beach. The Papasnanam The Thiruvananthapuram airport, Cochin International kam, or the confluence of the river and the sea. The other which include elaborate facial and body painting. (also known as Varkala) beach is a renowned natural spring Airport and the Calicut International airport are well side of the beach is the Ramachapadam, a vast farmland for Most of these dance forms found their origins in the and is considered to have medicinal and curative properties. connected to all major airports of India by most com- the Ayurvedic herb, Ramacham. The of Kochi history of the King Mahabali, revered by the people mercial airlines. is picture perfect, and the smooth, gentle waters great for of the state. Ritual art, which includes celebrations of swimming. It is lined with coconut groves and paddy fields Ayurveda tourism a several festivals and days of significance using the The state has an equable and moderate climate and offers a unique combination of the ocean and backwa- natural means available to them will make you ap- throughout the year, with predominantly tropical ters, with seashells of various hues and shapes washing up. Ayurveda is the harmony of the body, mind and soul. The preciate and celebrate your environment as well. This is also the place for occasional Dolphin spotting. pristine land of India where it originated over 5000- years weather. The monsoon and summer are harsh, and ago, Ayurveda is the science of life and longevity, and a visit during the relatively cooler winter months is Thiruvananthapuram is home to several gorgeous beaches, combines profound thoughts of medicine and philosophy. advisable. the Beach, Samudra beach, Shankhumugham Beach This discipline stands for the wholesome physical, mental and the famous with the coconut grove stud- and spiritual growth of humanity. Kerala is the land of the ded cliffs lining the beach and double rainbows appearing Ayurveda as it possesses an unbroken tradition that has on the regular. A calm and quiet hamlet, it has several other surpassed the many invasions and intrusions, both foreign things to do as well, the 2000 year old Vishnu temple, the and native. The vaidyas, or the practitioners of Ayurvedas Janardhanaswamy temple on the cliffs and the Sivagiri Mutt, believed to have been healing every disease using the teach- founded by the great Hindu reformer Sree Narayana Guru, ings of this discipline. The eight legendary families of Vaidyas (practitioners) and their successors treated the entire state

18 Corporate Outbound | June 2016 June 2016 | Corporate Outbound 19 Weekend Getaway

Bedse Cave

Kune Sakur Waterfall

onavla is known as the jewel of the Sahyadri, located in and excellent temple architecture. The interiors of the caves the western part of . They are known for have lion pillars, huge elephant carvings, forms of Buddha their scenic beauty, green hills, deep valleys, historic and dancing couples. The entrance to the Karla caves is in the Lonavla Lforts, lakes, waterfalls, tea plantations and the fog which shape of the Peepul leaf, and the hall following the entrance envelopes the city with the changes in the humidity in the air. is semicircular in shape. The town of Lonavla and that of the adjacent town of To See Similar to Karla caves are the Bhaja caves, which houses Khandala are beautiful hill stations in the state of The great caves: many monasteries. As the sun illuminates the interior of Maharashtra and wonderful weekend destinations for The main attraction for coming to Lonavla is the sequence these caves, one can see the deities and other dancing Mumbai and Pune. These charming twin hill stations of great caves like Bhoja, dating back to the 2nd century BC figures carved on the rock. They have huge pillar with various and continuing into the Bedsa caves from the 1st century animals and human figures. There is a roof, which is sup- at the elevation of 622 m. above sea level and 5 km BC, and the last, but not the least, the Karla range of caves. ported by a 2000-year-old woodwork, which lights up the from each other are nestled in the Sahyadri ranges. Karla is the site of the largest Chaitya caves or the prayer entire cave. halls from 80 BC. The temples represent the purity in design

20 Corporate Outbound | June 2016 June 2016 | Corporate Outbound 21 Tiger’s Leap

Karla Cave

Karla Cave- inside view

Forts: 12 km from Lonavla and clearly visible from the highway. This The fort was used by the great , and is a is the finest landmark and is very popular if you enjoy hiking. must add to your itinerary. Deep valleys on three sides and It looks like the hood of a snake, and is sometimes called Express Info a thick forest on the fourth side surround it. Today, the only Nagfani (hood of snake). The cliff gets its name after the remnant is the Rajmachi point, a green hillock with remnants Duke of Wellington. Getting there: of the fort. Other forts of interest are the Manoranjan fort, , fort, Tunga fort and the Lohagarh Shopping: Road fort. Lohagarh fort (the iron fort), is a robust climb of 11.2 The most important import of Lonavla is the sweet jiggery- Lonavla is situated on the Mumbai-Pune expressway km from Malavalli Railway station. The fort was a formidable peanut candy called Chikki. Various kinds of chikkis are avail- and is well connected to several towns of Maharash- battle station for the great Maratha Shivaji, and it commands able with various nuts and dry fruits and variety of flavors. tra, such as Karjat, Dabhade and Khopoli. It is 64 kms a majestic view of the surrounding hills and hamlets. This sweetmeat is a must sample for everyone who visits from Pune and 96 kms from Mumbai. Ryewood park and Shivaji Udyan are massive gardens that Lonavla. Maganlals and Coopers have some of the best chikki Bhaja Cave cover Lonavla. They cover a significant part of land and are in town. The mall road is another popular shopping destina- Rail: full of tall trees. There is an old Shiva temple in the park with tion. Lohagarh Lonavla is well connected by train. Local trains from place for children to play. Pune and trains plying between Mumbai and Pune Go off Road stop there. Karjat is the nearest railway station. Dams and hydroelectricity The cities are a must visit during the monsoon season. The Valvan dam is a picturesque spot with a garden at the base skies are bursting open and it is exhilarating to get drenched Air: and the Khopoli power station at the foothills of the Sahy- and play in the waterfall near Tiger’s leap. Be careful to carry Lohegaon Airport at Pune is the nearest to Lonavla, adris for generating electricity, which is fed by the Kundali enough dry things, as it is very easy to fall sick in the moun- well connected by most domestic and some interna- River. The lovely Tungarli lake supplies water to the Lonavla tainous, wet weather. Bush dam is a great place to visit round tional airlines. A sea plane service is also available dam. Both of these are major hydroelectricity stations of the year, for just dipping your feet in the cool water and en- between Juhu and Pawana dam, 14 kms from Lonavla. Maharashtra and sites of great interest. joying the force of nature that is water. In summer, the lake dries up and can be hiked or trekked, or simply walked along Tiger’s leap, also known as Tiger point is a clifftop with a the edge. A little up from the Bhushi dam is the beautiful wa- sheer drop of over 650m and gives an extensive view of the terfall, which can be reached by wading through the gushing hill and the valleys. Also of interest is the Duke’s nose, about waters of the dam, and makes for a one of a kind experience.

22 Corporate Outbound | June 2016 June 2016 | Corporate Outbound 23 Velavadar Blackbuck National Park

gered Indian Grey Wolf, the nocturnal Striped Hyena, Indian Francolin, Desert and Variable Wheatear, Chestnut Bellied Fox, Golden Jackal, Jungle Cat and many small mammals like Sandgrouse, Spotted Sandgrouse (winter), Painted Sand- hare, gerbil, field mice, mongoose and hedgehog. grouse, Quails and Saras Crane.

Birds Among the many raptors that can be seen are Pallid Harrier (winter), Montagu's Harrier (winter), Marsh Harrier (winter), Notified by Birdlife International this park and nearby -wet Laggar Falcon, Eurasian Hobby, Kestrel, Red-necked Falcon, lands comprise an important bird area. The park is a good Saker Falcon (winter), Peregrine Falcon, Eurasian Sparrow- place to watch grassland birds like larks, bushchats, hawk, Shikra, Imperial Eagle ( winter), Tawny Eagle, Steppe Picture courtesy: Gujarat Tourism wheatears, sandgrouse, francolins and quails. The Eagle (winter) and Short-toed Eagle. In winter, you can see park’s specialties include Saras Crane and pelicans, cranes, storks and other birds at the water bodies Stolikza’s Bushchat. Magnificent eagles, falcons and nearby marshes. ituated in the Bhavnagar district of Gujarat this national and endangered vultures can be seen at Vela- vadar. In winter, Velavadar National Park hosts the The park can be visited mostly by vehicle but one can also part was established in 1976 and is located around 42 hike through the grasslands. There is a nominal fee of Rs 20 kms from the district headquarters is spread over an world’s largest harrier roost – Montagu’s Harrier, S Pallid Harrier and Marsh Harrier can be seen in large for Indians and $20 for foreigners. Guides can be hired at the area of approximately 34 square kilometres. The national numbers, while Hen Harrier is occasionally park or you may hire a guide from elsewhere (many private park has been classified as 4B Gujarat-Rajwada biotic prov- tourism companies are available in Ahmedabad or Bhavna- ince of semi-arid bio-geographical zone. The park with grass- spotted. The lakes and sea- gar), but note that a private guide has to land ecosystem, flat land, dry grasses and herds of antelope pay the entry fee for always attracts visitors. Successful conservation programs himself too. for the blackbuck, wolf and lesser florican (a bustard) are ongoing. Considered to be an endemic Indian species, the So what are you wait- lesser florican, which once lived throughout the country, has sonal marshes are important places to watch ing for! Pack become endangered in recent decades. The park supports a your bags! variety of grass, 95 species of flowering plants, 14 species of the Lesser Floricans, pelicans, cranes, storks, ducks, herons Pack mammals, over 140 species of birds and many reptiles. The Animals clothes Alang and Paravalio Rivers, three artificial ponds, two checks and other water birds. Velavadar National Park is a possible site in earthy colours (dark browns, greens, greys and dams and nearby coastal marshes provide an ideal habitat Velavadar has India’s largest population of Blackbuck, the for birdwatchers who want to see specialty beiges), sun block and a hat, good walking for aquatic flora and fauna. This park is a paradise for bird- elegant Indian antelope. One of the fastest mammals in the birds of the tropical Indian grass- land like shoes, torch, binoculars and a camera are highly watchers. As you travel by jeep in the park for an exquisite world, the Blackbuck is capable of achieving high speeds the Stolizka's Bushchat (winter), Rufous- recommended. A jacket or a pullover is a must in journey through the wilderness with cameras and binoculars when leaping over the plains of Velavadar. India’s largest tailed Lark, Greater Short-toed Lark, Ashy- crowned winters. in hand cautious to any movement and ears alert to the antelope, the Nilgai or Blue Bull, is easily seen in this national and Black-crowned Sparrow Lark, Indian Bushlark, Singing sound of the forest. park. If you plan to stay longer you can also see the endan- Bushlark, Syke's Crested Lark, Crested Lark, Painted and Grey

24 Corporate Outbound | June 2016 June 2016 | Corporate Outbound 25 Express Info

When to Go

October to June is the best time to visit. The park is closed for the monsoon from June to October, and the best time to visit is winter, from December to March, when you can catch the bird population at its greatest, and avoid the stifling summer heat.

How to Reach By Air: The nearest airport is at Bhavnagar (65 km.).

By Rail: Bhavnagar, 65 km. from Velavadar is a conveni- ent railhead. There are direct trains everyday from Ahmedabad to Bhavnagar (299 km.) Bhavnagar is 65 km. from the Park.

By Road: The Park is 315 km. from Rajkot and 170 km. from Ahmedabad. It is most easily accessible from Bhavnagar city (65km.) Buses ply everyday between Bhavnagar and Velavadar. You can also hire taxis if you want to simply make a day trip to the park.

26 Corporate Outbound | June 2016 June 2016 | Corporate Outbound 27 State Tourism News

Karnataka appoints 111 tour- promote this place for composite ad- make Andhra Pradesh, the most pre- ist guides, inducts 298 ‘tourist venture tourism in which tourists would ferred destination, the Sunrise state is mitras’ be taken from Harwan in All Terrain all set to give its visitors a memorable Vehicles to starting point at Astan Marg yet thrilling experience with the launch of a host of water n a bid to promote tourism to the sports and ad- state, Karnataka’s Department of venture tourism Tourism appointed 111 Tourist Guides Rajkot Indore I facilities. th th th st nd rd and 298 ‘Tourist Mitras’. The tourist guides who went through a Compre- 19 , 20 , 21 Aug 2016 21 , 22 , 23 Oct 2016 In line with the hensive Guide Training Programme surge in tourist at five universities were issued guide interest in water licenses and identity cards, while “Tour- Madurai sport activities, ist Mitras” are part of a programme th th th th th th the state has of the Department of Tourism and the 18 , 19 , 20 Nov 2016 16 , 17 , 18 Dec 2016 already intro- Karnataka State Tourism Development duced a plethora Corporation (KSTDC) in association with of such facilitates the state Home Department. Nagpur Vijayawada for example para- th th th th th th sailing, jeep para- “The Tourist Mitras will be working 27 , 28 , 29 Jan 2017 24 , 25 , 26 Feb 2017 where from they will paraglide back to sailing, para-motoring, water skiing, in co-ordination with the local police Harwan. During the 15 minutes flight speed boat etc. in Bhavani Islands in stations. They have been given basic the tourists would have a bird’s eye Vijayawada. Work is also well underway training to provide information on art, Bhubaneshwar view of the Dal Lake also. Those who to replicate the same across other key culture, cuisine, heritage, etiquette, th th th have flown at Bir Billing consider Astan beaches such as Rishikonda, Bheemili, first aid, disaster control and etc. The 24 , 25 , 26 Mar 2017 Marg far better than that. With the Mangamaripeta, Thotlakonda, among 298-strong third batch includes 84 introduction of ATVs, the paragliding at others. women. Besides training in languages Dara would prove more beneficial for In the popular tourist destination of like French, Russian and German, the composite adventure package to visi- Papikondalu in Rajahmundry, blessed tourist guides were imparted knowl- tors and locals. with scenic splendor, two houseboats edge on history of tourist destinations, have been launched with one and communication skills and friendly three bedroom capacities respectively. behaviour among others. Andhra Pradesh allures tour- These boats are fitted with best-in-class ists with water sports launch in amenities to suit the tourists. Vijayawada Dara in Jammu & Kashmir is To strengthen the tourism development being developed as adventure in the state, Andhra Pradesh is also tourism site ourist preference patterns over launching 33 hotels offering more than the years have shown a gradual 2766 rooms and with a total invest- Tshift from traditional tourism, ment of Rs. 2400 Cr. Notable global n order to tap adventure tourism with more and more tourists now brands such as Taj group, ITC group, potential in Srinagar, the department inclined towards additional entertain- Accor group Holiday Inn Associates and of tourism is promoting paragliding ments such as water sports, adventure JW Marriot Associates etc. has already I tourism etc. To cater to this ever rising invested in such projects. For patrons of at Dara which is very close to Srinagar City. group of tourists and with a vision to adventure tour- ism, the stage is Tourists have started taking flights set to take their from start point at Astan Marg in experience to a Dara which flies for about 10 to 15 new height with the minutes and lands at Harwan giving launch of facilities a breathtakingly adventurous experi- such as waterfall ence to tourists. Around 5 to 6 flights rappelling, rock sail in the air on daily basis. A local climbing, high rope company Karakorum Explorers has courses, zorbing hired the services of expert pilots etc. in popular hill from Himachal Pradesh for paragliding stations of Horsley which started in April this year. Hills, Puligundu and Talakona. For Stall Bookings Contact: Tourism Department is planning to No. 348, Amarjyothi Layout, Domlur, Bangalore - 560 071 Ph : +80 41224331, Telefax : +91 80 41483066 28 Corporate Outbound | June 2016 Email : [email protected], [email protected] Website : www.iiteindia.comJune 2016 | Corporate Outbound 29 CORPORATE Subscription Business & Leisure Travel Magazine Form 1 Year - Rs. 500/- A S D E R F V C R E R T Y J U K I L O U 2 Year - Rs. 1000/- L K I M H U R W A Y A N A D B H Y N M R Name : Mr. / Ms. / M/s: ...... R T S P I T I B N H J H G V G T Y T Y R Designation : ...... J H F R R H J K I Y J K U S F G H J K H Company : ...... 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