travel -n- photography blog

Thanjavur – Tamil nadu, India

2010-01-20T19:09:00.000-08:00

The name Thanjavur is believed to have been derived from Tanjan, an asura in Hindu mythology, who is believed to have been killed at this spot by the Lord Vishnu. Also the name is believed to have been derived from Than-sei-oor, it means the place is surrounded by rivers and green paddy fields.

Places to visit in Thanjavur, Tamil nadu, India

2010-01-20T18:58:00.000-08:00

Shivaganga Fort: The Quadrangular Shivaganga Fort is situated towards the south west of the old city. Built by the Nayaka ruler, Sevappa Nayaka, in the mid-16th century, the battlemented stone structure covers an area of 35 acres surrounded by a part rock-cut moat. The fort contains the great Brahadeeshwara Temple, Schwartz Church, and Shivaganga Garden. The Shivaganga Tank in the fort was excavated by Rajaraja I and later renovated to provide drinking water for the City.

Brahadeeswarar Temple (or) Big Temple:

Thanjavur is famous for the Brahadeeswara temple built by the great chola king, Rajaraja Cholan, during the 11th century. The Brahadeeswara Temple, also known as the Big Temple, is one of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, completed in 1010 AD and dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple entrance has an imposing gateway on the east, on either sides of which stand two small shrines dedicated to Ganapathi and Murugan and further through there is another Gopuram 90 feet high. This way leads into an outer court.

A second and magnificent Gopuram further leads into the main court in which the temple is built. The inner court is about 500 feet long and 250 feet broad, is well paved with brick and stone. The court is surrounded on all sides by a cloister. The temple basement is covered with inscriptions that give details of the temple’s administration and revenue, and provide valuable historical information on Chola society and government. The 64. 8 Mt. tall vimanam (tower over the sanctum sanctorum) is testimony to the engineering skill of the Cholas. The Great Nandhi is 12 feet high, 19.5 feet long and 18.25 feet wide. The Nandhi is a monolith weighing about 25 tons and it is the second largest Nandhi in India.

A very minute work in a stone

Schwartz Church: The 18th century Schwartz Church is a legacy of Thanjavur’s colonial past, standing to the east of the Shivaganga Tank. This church was constructed by the Danish missionary, Reverend Frederik Christian Schwartz in 1779 AD. When he died, the enlightened Maratha ruler Serfoji II donated a striking marble tablet to the church. This tablet made by John Flaxman has been placed at the western end of the church. It depicts the dying missionary blessing his royal patron, surrounded by ministers and pupils from the school that he established.

Sivaganga Garden: A very beautiful park, located north of the big temple. It has a good collection of beautiful flower plants, birds and animals. There are children playing area at the heart of the park. The park has a cute little train and also a pond. Boating is also available in the pond.

Rajagopala Beerangi (Cannon): This is a huge cannon placed at the eastern gate of the Fort. The place is called ‘Beerangi Medu’. The Cannon is amazing in size and the quality speaks of the metallurgical knowledge of the people of those times. The Beerangi is the biggest in India.
Timing: 10.00am to 6.00pm

Royal Palace: Just 1 km away from the Brahadeeswarar Temple is a magnificent palace, surrounded by huge fort walls. This palace was originally built by Nayaka rulers as their royal residence and was further reconstructed by Maratha rulers. A large quadrangular courtyard leads into the palace complex. Outside the palace there is a seven-storeyed observation tower meant for the royal families. The splendid Maratha Durbar Hall, built by Shahji II in 1684 has elaborately decorated pillars, walls and ceilings. The Durbar Hall now houses the Rajaraja Museum and Art Gallery with an impressive collection of bronze and stone idols dating from 7th to 20th centuries.

Palace watch tower

The Royal Museum too is located in the Thanjavur Palace complex only. This museum houses mixed collections of manuscripts, weapons, utensils, stone sculpture, musical instruments and clothing that were used by the Royal Family of Thanjavur (Serfoji II).

Royal Museum:

Art Gallery: The Art Gallery is situated inside the Thanjavur Palace. The place is a must visit in Thanjavur as it houses some of the most magnificent and precious Granite and Bronze statues of the Chola period, and other artifacts belonging to the Chola and the Nayaka periods. This art gallery gives information about the entire history of Tamil Nadu from the 9th century to 18th century AD. The stones as well as the bronze sculptures are housed inside the Nayak palace building in three sections, namely the Pooja Mahal for stone sculptures, Indira Mandir for arsenals and the Rama Chowdam Hall displaying bronze sculptures.

The Saraswathi Mahal Library: Next to the museum is the Saraswathi Mahal Library, constructed by the Maratha rulers. This is one of the most important reference libraries in India. It has remarkable collection of about 30,433 sanskrit and other vernacular palm leaf manuscripts and 6,426 printed volumes, besides a large number of journals. This library is the effort of the three hundred years of collections by the Nayak and Maratha kings.

Tamil University: Established in 1981, the university is engaged in research and advanced study in Tamil. Tamil University Museum has a collection of coins and musical instruments.

Rajarajan Manimandapam: Constructed on the eve of the World Tamil conference held at Thanjavur and is a beautiful park. This Manimandapam has a museum in its ground floor.

Tholkappiyar Sadukkam: Tholkappiyar Sadukkam was constructed during the 8th World Tamil Conference. This is actually a Square that encloses a tower. The tower offers a panaromic view of the bustling Thanjavur Town.

Places to visit around Mysore - Karnataka, India

2010-01-05T19:19:00.000-08:00

Mysore is famous for the Dasara festival , the palace, the mysore painting, the sweet dish Mysore Pak , the Mysore silk sarees, Insense stick, Mysore betel, the salubrious climate and the Mysore sandalwood. It is also famous for its handicrafts as well. Most of the work is wood based. The artifacts are made out of sandalwood, rosewood and teak wood. The best place to buy these handicrafts and wooden carvings is the Cauvery Handicrafts Emporium of the Karnataka Handicrafts Development Corporation.

Places to visit in Mysore:

Places to visit around Mysore:

Srirangapatna (~20 km from Mysore)
Ranganathittu (~30 km from Mysore)
Dornahalli (~35 km from Mysore)
Nanjangud (30 km from Mysore)
Somnathpur ( ~35 km from Mysore)
Talakad (~60 km from Mysore)
Bandipur (~100 km from Mysore)
Nagarhole National Park (~100 km from Mysore)
Coorg (~120 km from Mysore)
Belur, Halebeedu, Shravanabelagola (~150 km from Mysore)
Mahadeshwara Hills (~150 km from Mysore)

Srirangapatna:

Srirangapatna is the city of historic, religious, and cultural hub situated in Mandhya district of Karnataka (India). Here you will come across the entire town as an island enclosed by River Kaveri. Srirangapatnam was the capital of the Mysore State under Tippu Sultan - The Tiger of Mysore. After the death of Tippu Sultan in 1799 AD, the British shifted the capital back to Mysore. The places in Srirangapatna are The Ranganathaswamy temple, The Dariya Daulat Palace, Tippu's Fort, Juma Majid, Gumbaz and the Sangam.

More details & photos about Srirangapatna @ http://picsfoo.blogspot.com/2009/02/srirangapatna-mysore.html

Somnathpur:

The construction of the Chennakeshava Temple, is the one dedicated to lord Keshava was started by Somanatha, a high-ranking officer under Hoysala King Narasimha III (1254-1291 AD.). He founded a village on the banks of the Cauvery and then embarked on constructing temples in a bid to further his immortality. It is a splendid example of Hoysala style of architecture. It stands on a raised platform in the center of a spacious enclosure.

Read more about Somnathpur @ http://picsfoo.blogspot.com/2009/03/somnathpur-kesava-temple.html.

Nanjangud:

Nanjangud 25Km from Mysore, a holy place, described as Garalapuri, is famous because of the huge Nanjundeswara temple. It is believed that sage Gauthama stayed here for some time and installed a Linga, the idol form of Shiva. Nanjangud is also known as 'Dakshina Kashi' or Varanasi of the South. The temple houses 121 statues of the various avatars of Lord Shiva along with 65 lingams. Nanjangud is an important industrial centre in Mysore district. On the Mysore - Ooty Road, many multinational companies have set up their units in the industrial area. The major ones are Nestle, TVS, S.Kumar's, and AT&S.

Dornahalli:

A wooden statue of the saint was found by a farmer when he was ploughing his field. Mistaking it for a doll he presented to his children to play with it. Tradition says that one night he had a dream in which a Friar wearing the same dress as that of the statue appeared to him and told him that the object was no doll but a statue of a revered catholic saint and that he would like to have a special shrine in his honor in that place of discovery and that his family would be blessed. The farmer however did not pay heed to his dream and in the course of a year he suffered heavy losses which he finally attributed to his negligence to carry out the instructions that he had received in his dream.

A visiting Catholic priest from Pondicherry was met by the farmer and invited to his village. The priest recognized the statue which was 13 1/2 inches in height and helped the farmer raise a shrine.The humble shrine is now a large church erected in 1920 due to the generosity of Mr.T.Dharmaraj Chetty brother of the late Sir Thambu Chetty, former Dewan of Mysore.This is supposed to be the most ancient place of pilgrimage of St.Anthony in India. There is also a good motorable road from Mysore to Krishnarajanagar via Dornahalli. There is a regular bus service on this road for the convenience of the pilgrims. The present Rector of the Shrine Rev. Fr. Thomas Paulus built the dome of the shrine and beautified the shrine.

Ranganathittu:

Near Srirangapattana is the Rangantittu Bird Sanctuary, which is the breeding site for several bird species. A little boat takes you close to the islands where the trees are covered with birds of different species. The only sounds are the cries of birds and the ripple of water. Ideal for picnicking and bird watching.The sanctuary was declared a bird sanctuary in 1940, when the ornithologist Dr Salim Ali while surveying the birds of the area put emphasis on declaring Ranganathittu a bird sanctuary. The best time to visit is between June to October. Birds coming from Siberia, Australia and even North America can be spotted here.

Read more at http://picsfoo.blogspot.com/2009/03/ranganathittu.html .

Bandipur:

The Bandipur National Park, which is also a Tiger Reserve is one of the most fascinating wild-life centers. Established in 1931 by the Mysore Maharajas and in 1941 it was announced as a National Park. It has been a designated tiger reserve in 1973, it is home to around seventy tigers This park is nested in the foothills of the Nilgiris. Bandipur forest office runs forest safaris of 45 minutes duration in well guarded buses.Elephant rides are also available. This open forest makes it easy for visitors to see the elephant and gaur (Indian bison) in natural surroundings.Many different species of deer, monkeys, squirrels and birds can also be seen. The reptile family is represented by Marsh Crocodiles, Pythons, Russel's Vipers, Cobras, Rat Snakes, Vine Snakes, Bamboo Pit Vipers, Turtles, Flying Lizards and many other varieties of snakes.

Talakad:

Talakad is a town known for its sand dunes. Talakad once had over 30 temples that today are buried in sand. Two hunters Tala and Kada, are believed to have struck the tree with an axe to find blood gushing forth, and upon the bidding of a heavenly voice, dressed the wound of the tree with thre tree's leaves and fruits. The tree healed, and the hunters became immortal. Since Shiva is believed to have healed himself through this incident, he is referred to as Vaidyeshwara. The Panchalingams here are all associated with this legend. The Vaidyeshwara temple is built in the Dravidian style of granite. Talakadu is situated at the bank of river Kaveri.

Nagarahole (Rajiv Gandhi National Park):

Nagarhole National Park has deciduous forest. Deriving its name from Kannada,’Naga’ meaning snake and ‘hole’ Referring to streams, Nagarahole is truly a delightful spot. It is located in the districts of Coorg & Mysore. The park has been recently renamed as Rajiv Gandhi National Park. It receives an average rainfall of 1000 to 1500 mm annually. There are a few rivers that drain the national park; Kabini is the largest river on which a dam was built in 1974. Other rivers that flow through the park are Lakshmana, Teentha and Nagarhole. The forest is home to animals like the wild boar, four-horned antelope, civet, wild dog, sloth bear, jungle cat, sambhar, spotted deer, elephant, flying fox, tiger, panther, gaur (Indian bison), black-naped hare, bonnet macaque, and pangolin. Cobras, vipers, crocodiles, kraits, pythons and several species of lizards are also found here.Department vehicles and guides are available for wildlife viewing.

Belur:

This is one of the major tourist destinations in the district of Hassan in Karnataka, India. Belur was the capital of the Hoysala Empire. This place is famous for its exquisite temples. Belur is known as Dakshina Varanasi or Southern Banaras. It is a small town located on the banks of River Yagachi. The main attraction in Belur is the Chennakeshava temple, which is one of the finest examples of Hoysala architecture, built by the Hoysala Kind Vishnuvardhana in 1117 A.D. to commemorate his conversion from Jainism to Vaishnavism. The Hoysalas were brilliant builders who developed a new style of temple architecture. They conceived their shrines as star-shaped structures. Facing the temple, at the entrance, stands the winged figure of Garuda, Lord Vishnu's carrier. Legend has it that it took 103 years to complete and Vishnuvardhana's grandson Veera Ballala II completed the task. The facade of the temple is filled with intricate sculptures and friezes with no portion left blank.

The intricate workmanship includes elephants, lions, horses, episodes from the Indian mythological epics, and sensuous dancers. There are also temples built for Narasimha, Anjaneya, etc. King Vishnuvardhana's queen Shantaladevi, a dance legend herself, built a temple in similar fashion to the main temple, which was called the Channigaraya temple.

Halebeedu:

The great city flourished as a Capital of the Hoysala Empire during the 12th & 13th centuries. During the reign of Veeraballala II, the grandson of Vishnuvardhana, it reached the greatness of its zenith. Veeraballala II extended his empire from sea to sea between the Cauvery & Krishna rivers. Its present name means old (hale) capital (bidu) but it was once referred to as Dwarasamudra (the gateway to the sea) indicating the numerous water bodies that must have been in the vicinity at the time. The main temple here is called Hoysaleshwara. The Hoysaleshwara and Kedareshwara temples in Halebidu are supreme examples of Hoysala temple architecture.

Shravanabelagola:

Shravenabelagola (53 kilometers from Hassan) is one of the most celebrated Jain sites in southern India. It is not to see a particular monument that one comes here but for the location and the concept. Shravanabelagola is a holy place for Jains. Their Guru is residing here in a Mutt. There is a Sanskrit Patashala to study Sanskrit and Shastras.From the early years of the Christian era Jain missionaries moved to southern India in a steady stream, spreading their philosophy of ahimsa or non-violence. Their presence is marked in the Deccan and there also Jain temples in Tamil Nadu, and in Karnataka at Karkal and Dharmasthal.

Mahadeshwara Hills:

Malai Mahadeshwara hills in Chamarajnagar district of Karnataka. The height of the hill is about 3000 feet from the sea level. It is considered as one of the important pilgrim centers in Karnataka.The famous Malai Mahadeswara Temple is seen here. The temple here is dedicated to Lord Mahadeshwara (the incarnation Lord Shiva). The main festival of the temple is Maha Shivratri (February/March). Special pooja's are conducted at this time. During Deepavali festival a grand celebration can be seen in Malai Mahadeshwara Hills. The forests are inhabited by a variety of animals, birds and reptiles. They are found in large numbers too. Elephants are the most prominent species. The famous Hogenkal falls is also very nearer to this hill area which is only 45kms towards south. Hogenkal is situated in Tamilnadu.

Coorg:

Coorg is located in the south-western part of Karnataka bordering Kerala. The main river in Kodagu is the Kaveri (Cauvery) River. Kodagu is derived from the word Kodava, Kod means 'give' and avva means 'mother', i.e mother Kaveri, the river Kaveri. Coorg described as the Scotland of India, Coorg lies at an altitude of 1,525 m on the Western Ghats. The economy depends on agriculture, coffee plantations, forestry and tourism. The scenic beauty of Coorg, lush green valleys, coffee plantations, teak wood forests & majestic mountain ranges are mind - blowing. There are also facilities for trekking, golfing and angling.

Kodagu is considered rich with wildlife and has three wildlife sanctuaries and one national park: Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary, Talakaveri Wildlife Sanctuary and Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary, and Nagarahole or Rajiv Gandhi National Park. The Kodagu district comprises different communities like Kodava, Tulu, Gowda, Moplah, etc, out of which the largest is the Kodava community, both economically and politically. Miracle in Coorg is, every year at a predetermined time, water gushes out from a small pond at Talacauvery, the birthplace of river Cauvery.

LalBagh Park - Bangalore, Karnataka, India

2010-01-01T20:03:00.000-08:00

LalBagh is one of the very famous park in Bangalore and it is one of the most important tourist attractions in Bangalore. Hyder Ali commissioned the building of this garden in 1760, but his son, Tipu Sultan completed it. LalBagh is a 240 acre garden and is located on the southern part of Bangalore. It holds a number of flower shows, especially on the Republic Day (26th January). The garden has over 1,000 species of flora. The Glass House, modeled on London's Crystal Palace (now re-modelled with a different layout), is the center of attraction. Hyder Ali laid out these famous botanical gardens and his son added horticultural wealth to them by importing trees and plants from several countries.

The garden has trees that are over 100 years old. It also has an aquarium and a lake. Flower shows are conducted every year to educate people about the variety of flora and develop public interest in plant conservation and cultivation.

LalBagh remains open daily from 6.00 a.m. to 7.00 p.m. throughout the year. For the benefit of joggers, tourists and fitness enthusiasts, entry is free from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. and from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. At other times, a fee of Rs.10/- is charged. Entry for school children and the disabled is free all day.

Floral Clock: Watch me!

Very Old and Big tree: How big i am

Fun Cab: Im ur best friend

This vehicle is used to round up the whole park, and the cab driver will give comments about the park.They are charging Rs100 per person for this vehicle.

Carnivorous Plants (Pitcher Plants)

2009-10-23T06:59:00.000-07:00

Carnivorous Plants (Pitcher Plants or Insectivorous Plants) are carnivorous because they live in nutrient poor soils like bogs. These plants get the food they need by digesting prey. It is estimated that there are over 600 species of carnivorous plants. It can eat spiders, bees, snails, small frogs, and other small animals.

Trapping mechanisms:

Pitfall trap : It trap prey in a rolled leaf that contains a pool of digestive enzymes or bacteria
Flypaper trap : It use a sticky mucilage
Snap trap : It utilize rapid leaf movements
Bladder trap : It suck the prey with a bladder that generates an internal vacuum
Lobster-pot trap : It force the prey to move towards a digestive organ with inward-pointing hairs
You can see the details of some carnivorous plants here..

Venus Flytraps:

The leaves of Venus' Flytrap open wide and on them are short, stiff hairs called trigger or sensitive hairs. When anything touches these hairs enough to bend them, the two lobes of the leaves snap shut trapping whatever is inside. In a few minutes the trap will shut tightly and secretes digestive juices. It dissolves the soft, inner parts of the insect, but not the tough, outer part called the exoskeleton. At the end of the digestive process, which takes from five to twelve days, the trap reabsorbs the digestive fluid and then reopens. The leftover parts of the insect, the exoskeleton, blow away in the wind or are washed away by rain. The time it takes for the trap to reopen depends on the size of the insect, temperature, the age of the trap, and the number of times it has gone through this process.

Nepenthes Mirabilis:

Nepenthes mirabilis is a tropical carnivorous plant species of the pitfall trap variety. It is a plant growing about 3 feet high which carries at the end of its leaves, which are 7 inches long, a hollow flower or fruit resembling a small vase, with its own lid.

Drosera Capensis (Sundew):

The has a panel-like development, therefore it tends to widen very much. These plants are perennial herbs. The elongate leaf of a sundew plant covered with dense, gland-tipped hairs and the flies will be slowly, enzymatically digested and absorbed by the plant.

Sarracenia flava:

This plant's leaves have evolved into a funnel in order to trap insects, digesting their prey with proteases and other enzymes. The insects are attracted by a nectar-like secretion on the lip of pitchers, as well as a combination of color and scent. Slippery footing at the pitchers' rim, causes insects to fall inside, where they die and are digested by the plant as a nutrient source.

Lovely Collections - Key to success

2009-10-20T10:28:00.000-07:00

Love should be a hard tree, able to withstand windy storms.

Cherish it like a springtime flower, and it will last for eternity.

Special moments come when we least expect them, opening our hearts and minds to the infinite possibilities of life.

Quiet times are filled with love, walking and talking, or sitting, watching the sunset, silent, caring and at ease.

If you are comfortable standing alone, the world will come to you seeking the secret of your success.

Riding down life's highway is hard work, You owe it to yourself to have fun along the way.

The small moon can eclipse the great sun. I too, can do great things if i set myself in the right place at the right time.

Charity begins at home

All that glitters is not gold

Better late than never

Nandhi Hills - Karnataka, India

2009-08-28T20:53:00.000-07:00

Nandidurg hill, known commonly as Nandhi Hills, is a hill station, gets its name from an ancient Nandhi temple situated on this hill. It is 1478 meters above sea level. It is located approximately 60 km (top of the hill) from the city of Bangalore. The rivers Pennar, Palar and Arkavati originate from these hills and most of the sources have dried up. It was used to be the favorite summer getaway of Tipu Sultan, is now a popular picnic spot with its awesome fort, sprawling lawns and two ancient temples. Nandi Hills offers a surprise of breathtaking scenic beauty and excellent climatic condition. The Horticulture department maintains a lovely garden for children to play games like the slides, merry-go-round, swings etc.

Attractions in the Nandhi Hills are:

Tippu's Drop : It is the place from where Tippu Sultan made his prisoners fall.

Tippu's Summer Residence : Tippu’s summer residence is a beautiful palace which was completed in the year 1791. The construction of the palace was started by Haidar Ali and was completed by Tippu Sultan. The palace was used by the Sultan as his summer resort and he named it as Tashk-e-Jannat which means envy of heaven. It is constructed mainly of wood. The ceiling and the walls are covered with paintings. These paintings are in a faded state. General public are not allowed into the palace.

Brahmashram : It is a cool and beautiful cave near Nandi Hills. This cave has the unique distinction of being the meditation place of Sage Ramakrishna Paramhamsa. The Sage, who is one of the greatest devotee of Goddess Kali, meditated here.

Nehru Nilaya : Sir Mark Cubbon, when he was Commissioner of Bangalore made this his summer residence, where Jawaharlal Nehru used to stay and now it is a guest house of the horticulture department of India.

Yoga Nandeeshwara Temple: It is situated on top of the hill, the Chola rulers of Tamilnadu built this temple. This temple has a thousand year old sculpture of Nandi. It also has a beautiful Kalyana Mantapa.

Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple: At the base of the Nandi Hills in the Nandi Village is the Bhoga Nandishwara Temple that follows the Dravidian style of architecture. It is interesting to note that the Bhoga Nandeeswara temple was built by many dynasties that ruled the area. The Banas, the Cholas, the Hoysalas and the Vijayanagar rulers built the temple adding many structures as and when they found suitable.

Muddenahalli : It is just a few kilometers away from Nandi Hills, the home town of Sir M. Visvesvaraya, the architect of modern Karnataka. His house is now a museum.

Timings : Nandi hills is open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Enjoy the Photos:

Sign in to Nandhi Hills:

Nandhi Hills beautiful image, taken from its foothills:

Yoganandeeshwara temple's beautiful tank:

"Good Evening" this picture has taken in the evening:

In the world the very purest love is mother - child love:

Beach Boardwalk - SantaCruz, California, USA

2009-08-25T20:58:00.000-07:00

In the late 1860's, the development of summer cottages, hotels, and bathhouses established Santa Cruz as a tourist destination. In 1904 Fred Swanton designed a casino and boardwalk resembling Coney Island. Two years later a fire destroyed the casino, but a new one was promptly built in it's place. The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is the only major seaside amusement park on the Pacific Coast and is located on a mile-long beach bordering Monterey Bay. The boardwalk features 34 rides, games of skill, arcades, restaurants, shops and entertainment for the entire family. Admission to the Boardwalk is free.

Rides:

Giant Dipper Roller Coaster
Sea Swing
Double Shot (Tall Tower Ride)
Looff Carousel
Hurricane
Speed Bumps
Tsunami
Speed Boats
Jet Copters
Cliff Hanger and so on

Address: 400 Beach Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

Enjoy the pictures:

The tourist guide and photos of Kodaikanal - Tamilnadu, India

2009-08-24T21:11:00.000-07:00

Kodaikanal is one of the most popular hill station in Tamil Nadu, Southern part of India. Kodaikanal is also known as "Princess of Hill Stations", shortly called as "Kodai". A summer festival is held every year in May in which boat races, flower and fruit shows are specially organized. Cultural programs are also conducted during the festival.

Kodai is famous for Kurinji flower. It is an endemic species in South India growing only in Anamalai, Nilgiris and Palani hills in Tamil Nadu. It does not grow in any part of the world. Though there are about 50 varieties of Kurinji (a bell-shaped flower), blue colored variety alone would bloom once in 12 years, and that is known as NeelaKurinji. The plant is usually 30 to 60 cms high on the hills. The Kurinji bushes are also found in some hilly tracts of Kerala like Munnar and Iduki. The peak season to visit Kodaikanal is April-June.

Places to visit in Kodaikanal:

Silver Cascade
Bryant park
Coaker's walk
Pillar Rocks
Green Valley
Guna Caves
Bear Shola Falls
Museum
Kurinji Andavar Murugan Temple
Berijam Lake

Bryant Park:

A British forest officer by the name Bryant was the one who landscaped this park in the year 1980 and hence it is named after him. This is the place where the annual vegetable and flower show is held during the month of May and is the most visited place by many during the summer months. A glasshouse in the park contains wide varieties of flowers, ferns and other ornamental plants.

Other general information :

The famous schools here are Kodaikanal International School, kodaikanal Public School, Zion Matriculation School.
The colleges in are Kodaikanal Christian College and Sacred Heart College.
The 2 major medical facilities are the Van Allen Hospital and the Government Hospital.
Trekking lovers also find Kodaikanal interesting.
Kodai is famous for plums, Kurinji flower, chilli bajji, pears, carrot, cauliflower, cabbage, garlic, onion, handicrafts, medical herbs, eucalyptus, horse riding, cycling, walking, boating and homemade chocolates.

Enjoy the valleys in Kodaikanal:

Flower Collections - Key to Success

2009-08-17T07:03:00.000-07:00

Cleanliness is next to godliness

Don't go near the water until you learn how to swim

A fool and his money are soon parted

A friend in need is a friend indeed

A man's home is his castle

Love conquers all. Love makes the world go round

Mission Beach – San Diego, CA

2009-08-03T19:47:00.000-07:00

Mission beach is one of the most popular beaches in San Diego. Mission beach is the center of a continuous stretch of beach known as “The Strand”. This beach draws large visitors in summer.

Surfing is permitted at this beach in designated areas. This beach is not recommended for scuba diving due to lack of undersea life, heavy water activity, and surf. Lifeguards are staffed daily year round at the main lifeguard station at the foot of Ventura Place. Public restrooms and showers are also available. During the day the beach is covered with sunbathers while kids play in the surf. Mission Beach Football and sand volleyball at the south end of the beach are popular.

A somewhat narrow cement boardwalk parallel's the entire beach. Walking, biking, bicycling, and related activities are permitted on the boardwalk, but speed is regulated.

The consumption of alcohol at this beach and park area is prohibited at all times.

Belmont Park: Belmont Park is an historic theme park and it is located on the surf and sand in Mission Beach. There are so many thriller rides and attractions in this theme park. Also many restaurants and ice-cream parlors are also present here. It is the perfect weekend getaway.

Rides:

The Giant Dipper Roller Coaster
Beach Blaster
Chaos
Thunder Boats
Krazy Kars
Tilt-A-Whirl
Vertical Plunge
Liberty Carousel
Crazy Submarine

Attractions:

Wave Machines
Swimming Pool
Arcade
Midway Games
Miniature Golf
Coconut Climb
Lazer Maze
Mirror maze

Some more from my collections in California

2009-07-27T19:52:00.000-07:00

I'm the happiest man in this world!

Cheers!

Colourful!

Oh God! Show my pair!

We are ready for the party!

Dining table is ready! But food!

I'm here!

Oh! My Love!

I'm a champion in long jump!

OldTown – San Diego, California

2009-07-12T08:50:00.000-07:00

Old Town San Diego is considered the "birthplace" of California. San Diego is the site of the first permanent Spanish settlement in California. It was here in 1769, that Father Junipero Serra came to establish the very first mission in a chain of 21 missions that were to be the cornerstone of California’s colonization. Father Serra’s mission and Presidio were built on a hillside overlooking what is currently known as Old Town San Diego.

In 1846, a U.S. Navy Lieutenant and a Marine Lieutenant, raised the American flag in the Old Town San Diego Plaza.

Old Town is home to:

9 Quality Hotels
32 Restaurants
106 Specialty Shops
12 Art Galleries
27 Historic Buildings & Sites
Old Town San Diego State Historic Park
Heritage Park (Victorian Homes)
Presidio Park
Sheriff's Museum
Old Town Trolley Tours
Mormon Battalion Visitors Center

In 1968, the State of California Department of Parks and Recreation established Old Town State Historic Park to preserve the rich heritage that characterized San Diego during the 1821 to 1872 period. Old Town is the perfect weekend getaway

In 1868, the San Diego Union, the first newspaper, began its publication in Old Town. The first office of the newspaper is restored as it was when the Union printed its first edition on October 10 of that year. Visitors can see the original print-room and the editor's office.

See local artisans create magnificent handmade novelties, crafts, candles, clothing, paintings, jewelery, pottery, delicious homemade tortillas and much more.

Natural Collections in California, USA

2009-07-09T08:55:00.000-07:00

Beautiful Green Meadow!

Hey! ur haircut is too good!

Dollar flowing water!

Giant Tree!

Peaceful Walking Track!

I’m still there..

Lovely Golf course

We are relatives!

I'm in an order!

I'm so tall

Flower Bunches - Key to Success

2009-07-09T01:04:00.000-07:00

"Strength, Knowledge and Will are the qualities that make a person successful"

"Experience is a hard teacher, because she gives the test first, the lesson afterwards "

"You become successful by helping others become successful"

"Bring out the courage within yourself and inspire others to follow suit"

"Good actions give strength to us and inspire good actions in others"

"The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams"

"You cannot always control circumstances, but you can control your own thoughts"

"Asking for help is a strength, not weakness"

"Experience teaches us when to wait and when to move forward"

"Goal 'setting' is important... Goal 'doing' is more important"

Hope you like these flowers…

Photography Tips

2009-07-08T21:15:00.000-07:00

Photographing the Clouds:

Seeing has many different dimensions. Photographers see through the inner eye - the artistic eye. When you clouds with your inner eye, each cloud farm is unique and some are worth clicking. Some cloudscapes contain such an array of colors and arrangement that gives beauty almost beyond description. The following guidelines will help an inch in cloud photography.

Practice enough till you get a good one. Always keep your camera posture rock-solid when you press the shutter release. Use a tripod or rest the camera on a solid surface. Use polarizing filter - it increases the contrast between sky and cloud and enhances the image. In general avoid photographing in the mid-day light. There is more beauty in the low sunlight of early morning or late noon.

Below are 2 cloud beauties, which i came across.

Pic by VeloManiac http://www.flickr.com/photos/35127493@N00/

Pic from http://benjaminwey2000.wordpress.com/2008/03/03/the-golden-gate-bridge/

Lighting tips to improve photography:

Very good article on DPS about "9 different lighting types for improving photography"

Side Lighting
Back lighting
Rim lighting
Ambient Lighting
Soft Lighting
Hard lights
Spotlight
Artificial lighting
Various combination of lighting

Complete details on : DPS

Food Photography:

Some tips while photographing food items

Keep your vessels and your surface (photographic canvas) clean
Get close to the subject
Never use flash
Act quick
Keep hands steady or use tripod
Shoot many pictures of the food and select the best
Shoot food as it is being prepared.

Flower Photography:

Taking good quality pictures of flowers can seem intimidating. However, there are some simple techniques which even amateur photographers can use to obtain dramatic results with minimal effort.

Timing is everything.
Wait for an overcast or foggy day
Don't take flower pictures in direct sunlight
Use Lower ISO settings on your Digital Camera
Backlight for a dramatic look
Use a tripod
Blur your backgrounds - use a large aperture

More at http://picsfoo.blogspot.com/search/label/flowers

Water Drop Photography:

Aperthetic has given his tips on photographing water drops. Checkout how his technique pattern water drop shots http://digital-photography-school.com/forum/showthread.php?t=10164. This is a real good photography tutorial.

photo by Aperthetic.

Night Light Photography:

For night light photography, flash may be helpful in taking photos in low light conditions. But the flash is not always helpful for night photography. The flash may reduce the beauty and quality of the photo. To avoid flash, try to use the camera features when taking night photos, like decreasing the shutter speed, increasing the ISO settings, or use a preprogrammed night scene mode. The above picture is taken in a pre-programmed night scene mode during Diwali festival.

Photo taken at Mysore Brindhavan Garden:

Lovely Roses - Key to Success

2009-07-07T19:00:00.000-07:00

"Small opportunities are often the beginning of great achievements"

"The day you take complete responsibility for yourself, the day you stop making any excuses, that's the day you start rising to the top"

"Progress has little to do with speed, but much to do with direction"

"Luck is what happens, when preparation meets opportunity"

"If you are going to climb, you have to grab the branches"

"Positive attitude creates a chain reaction of positive thoughts"

"A single conversation across the table with a wise man is worth a month's study of books"

"Everything you need for a happy life is within yourself"

"Always do your best. What you plant now, you will harvest later"

"If there were no obstacles, there would have been no achievements"

Flowers - Key to Success

2009-07-07T01:26:00.001-07:00

Charity begins at home

Easy come, Easy go

Cleanliness is next to godliness

Empty vessels make the most noise

It's better to give than to receive

It's better to light a candle than curse the darkness

A good enemy is a better person than a false friend

An apple a day keeps the doctor away

A bad workman always blames his tools

A friend in need is a friend indeed

Actions speak louder than words

A journey of a thousand miles starts with a single step

Magestic Flowers - Key to Success

2009-07-07T01:18:00.001-07:00

"Keep your face to the sunshine and you cannot see the shadows"

"If you want a brighter view of life, help someone else find the solution to their problems"

"Every night before you go to sleep, look at the good you've accomplished during the day, measure our progress and make plans for taking advantage of whatever oppurtunity the morning brings your way"

"If you keep your attention focussed on your goal, you'll never notice the obstacles and pitfalls along the way"

"A pessimist sees difficulty in every opportunity, an optimist sees opportunity in every difficulty"

"Life is a school. There is something new to learn wherever we may be, wherever we go, wherever we turn"

"A positive attitude is a person's passport to a better tomorrow"

Failing to plan is planning to fail

Try and try again, you will succeed at last

Beautiful Flowers - Key to Success

2009-07-07T01:17:00.000-07:00

"Yesterday is a cancelled cheque; tomorrow is a promissory note; today is the only cash you have, So spend it wisely"

"Unless you try to do something beyond what you have already mastered, you will never grow"

"The difference between the impossible and the possible lies in a man's determination"

"I am not bound to win, but i am bound to be true. I am not bound to succeed, but i am bound to try and strive for the best"

"To give real service you must add something which cannot be bought or measured with money and that is sincerity and integrity"

"Have a heart that never hardens and a temper that never tires, and a touch that never hurts"

"A goal to be the best is more important than a goal to be the biggest"

"Learning is the raising of character by the broadening of vision and the deepening of feeling"

"Goals are not only necessary to motivate us. They are essential to really keep us alive"

"Imagination is your power house where you can shape your plans and make them a reality"

SeaWorld - SanDiego, CaliFornia, USA

2009-07-06T07:13:00.000-07:00

SeaWorld is located on San Diego’s Mission Bay. It was opened in 1964. San Diego seaworld usually ranked fourth among the Top 10 theme parks in California. Sea World is a marine life park. On arriving at SeaWorld, guests should pick up a map and a timetable of shows, and start to plan the day. 189 acres is a big area, so work out where to be at what time, and plan a route accordingly. SeaWorld features some fabulous aquatic shows, amusements, and other adventures. It’s educational as well as profoundly entertaining.

A “must-see” is Shamu’s (Killer Whale) Adventure. The first 20 rows of the Shamu stadium are designated "The Soak Zone" to warn audience members who choose to sit there that they will get very wet. Whales are distinctively marked with a black back, white chest and sides, and a white patch above and behind the eye. It's large size and strength make them among the fastest marine mammals, often reaching speeds in excess of 56 km/h (35 mph).

A snow-filled 25°F habitat where a large number of penguin species live. And also a new show performed in water by acrobats and characters displaying amazing physical feats and illusions. So, In San Diego SeaWorld we can see many kinds of Colourful Fishes, Whale, Dolphin, Star and Jelly Fishes, Shark, Penguin, SeaLion, polar bears, Manatees, etc. Kids especially enjoy California Tide Pool, where they can touch starfish. So, You and your family can enjoy all of this and more at SeaWorld.

Shows:

The Shamu Show: Believe
Shamu Rocks
Dolphin Discovery
Clyde and Seamore's Risky Rescue
Pet's Rule!
Sesame Street presents Lights, Camera, Imagination
Sea Lions Tonite
Cirque de la Mer
Shamu's SkySplash

Rides:

Journey To Atlantis
Shipwreck Rapids
Wild Arctic
SeaWorld SkyTower
Bayside Skyride
Abby's Sea Star Spin
Oscar's Rockin' Eels
Elmo's Flying Fish

Animal Encounters:

Wild Arctic
Shark Encounter
Forbidden Reef
Manatee Rescue
Freshwater Aquarium
Aquarium de la Mer
Rocky Point Preserve
World of the Sea Aquarium
Penguin Encounter
Clydesdale Hamlet
Pacific Point
Tide Pool

Unique Experiences:

Dine With Shamu
Dolphin Interaction
Dolphin Encounter
Wild Arctic Interaction
Guided Tours
SeaWorld Adventure Camp

Timings: SeaWorld is open year-round, but hours vary by season.
Check out Seaworld website at http://www.seaworld.com/sandiego/

Enjoy the photos:

Photography - Landscape, Architecture photo shots

2009-07-05T00:50:00.000-07:00

Architecture Photo shot:

Light is the magical element of a architecture photography. You should do some research on what time of the day light your building looks more attractive, because light suits most of the structures. Try to identify the better angle from which you can click. Don't try to work on closeup shots with a wide angle lens or settings. Move back and take the whole structure and if you have good lens, go closer and take in the minute details. Use ISO 400 film or use ISO 400 setting in your digital camera. Use polarizing filters which can increase contrast and produce dramatic skies.

Landscape photo shot:

A classic landscape photograph has a foreground, a focal point and a background. Landscape photography is dominated by light effects. The amount and quality of light falling on a landscape influences the patterns (fields or different variety of plants/tree side by or a mountain range). Early morning and late afternoon provide the most dramatic light effects. However, a heavy dark-clouded skies can also suddenly be broken by a ray of light at any time of the day and these conditions often provide a very good landscape photographic environment. Great light effects last only few minutes, and you need to work fast for the capture. So keep a loaded camera and tripod ready.

Balboa Park - SanDiego, California, USA

2009-07-01T01:21:00.000-07:00

Balboa Park was first established in 1868 as a 1,400 acre City Park. It was named after the Spanish explorer, Balboa in 1910. At 1,200 acres, Balboa Park is the nation's largest urban cultural park. The trees here were planted by the famous American gardener Kate Sessions.

Balboa Park was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1977. It has 15 museums, eight gardens, the San Diego Zoo, and renowned performing arts venues. Most gardens and some attractions are free of charge. The Old Globe is California's oldest professional theater organization. The Park also houses a junior theater, puppet theater, and musical theatre. The Botanical Building was built in 1915 and home to 2,100 permanent tropical plant specimens. The park is managed and maintained by the City of San Diego Parks and Recreation Department.

Balboa Park is adjacent to many of San Diego's neighborhoods including Downtown San Diego, Bankers Hill, Hillcrest, North Park, South Park, and Golden Hill.

The Gardens located in the park are:

Alcazar Garden
Botanical Building
Cactus Garden
Casa del Rey Moro Garden
Inez Grant Parker Memorial Rose Garden
Japanese Friendship Garden
Marston House Garden
Palm Canyon
Zoro Garden

The Museums located in the park are:

San Diego Museum of Man
San Diego Museum of Art
Museum of Photographic Arts
San Diego Art Institute
San Diego Model Railroad Museum
San Diego Natural History Museum
San Diego Historical Society
Reuben H. Fleet Science Center
Timken Museum of Art
San Diego Automotive Musuem
San Diego Aerospace Museum
Veterans Memorial Center Museum
Mingei International Museum
Spanish Village Art Center

Srirangapatna - Mysore, Karnataka, India

2009-06-25T10:09:00.000-07:00

Srirangapatna is a town in Mandya district. It is one of the historic, religious, and cultural hub in Karnataka. Here you will come across the entire town as an island enclosed by river Cauvery. Srirangapatnam was the capital of the Mysore State under Tippu Sultan - The Tiger of Mysore. After the death of Tippu Sultan in 1799 AD, the British shifted the capital back to Mysore. Srirangapatna is around 13km from Mysore.

Places to visit Srirangapatna are:

Sri Ranganathaswamy temple
Dariya Daulat Palace
Tippu's Fort
Gumbaz
Juma Majid
Dungeon

Sri Ranganathaswamy temple:

The Ranganathaswamy temple in Srirangapatna is very famous and very old temple. It has the idol of Lord Vishnu as Ranganatha. Ranganatha is portrayed as reclining on the bed of Aadi Sesha. Ranganayaki Thaayaar is enshrined in the north west corner of the temple. The architecture is a mixture of the Hoysala and Vijayanagar styles. It is built by the Gangas in 9th century, later improved by the Hoysala and Vijayanagar kings. The Lakshadweepotsava, when one lakh lamps are lit during Makara Sankranthi is a sight to behold.

Temple timings: 7:30 am - 1 pm, 4 pm - 8 pm

The Dariya Daulat Palace :

Tipu Sultan popularly known as the "Tiger of Mysore", built this wooden palace in 1784. The palace is built in the Indo-Sarcenic style. This is the summer palace of Tipu, this beautiful Palace built mainly of teakwood. The walls of the Palace are covered with colorful pictures. The outer walls of the palace have frescoes of the battle scenes and portraits. The inner walls are decorated with scrolls of thin foliage and floral patterns. The wooden ceilings of the palace are pasted with canvas painted with floral patterns. The summer Palace of Tipu Sultan, built fully by wood is today a museum devoted to Tipu Sultan. oil paintings, pencil sketches, aquatints, engravings, coins, medals, costumes, furniture, arms, plenty of historical datas of Hyder Ali and Tipu's conquest etc are exhibited in the museum. The museum has the famous painting "Storming of Srirangapattanam" an oil painting by Sir Robert Ker Porter made in 1800. This historical painting depicts the final fall of Srirangapatana on 4th May 1799.

Timings: 9 am - 5 pm

Tippu's Fort:

In Battle of Srirangapatam , Tipu Sultan was killed within the fort of Srirangapatana, the spot where he ultimately fell is marked by a memorial. Lalmahal - Tipu's residence was also housed within the Srirangapatna Fort (Tipu's Palace). But it was completely demolished by the British, and the spot is today marked.

Juma Majid :

Tippu built this Juma Majid at Srirangapatna as well. This mosque has tall lofty minarets.There is an inscription mentioning the ninety-nine names of Allah and another records the date of its construction by Tippu in 1787 A.D.

Gumbaz :

The tombs of Tippu Sultan, his father Hyder Ali, mother Fathima Begum and sons of tipu are laid out in the Gumbaz. This is a major tourist attraction because of its architecture and craftsmanship. The importance of Gumbaz lies in its well-shaped large dome, ivory inlaid doors, carved stone windows of fine workmanship and inscriptions.

Dungeon:

It is the underground prison, here you can see hooks on the walls to which the prisoners hands were chained.

Lovely Flowers - Way to Success

2009-06-24T05:43:00.000-07:00

Hi Friends, I am the Flower. Im the beautiful and gorgeous creature in the World. Im very proud to be like that. But my life time is 1 or 2 days, but i won't worry for that. Within that short duration i'll make others happy. First of all i'll be happy! But human beings are having 6 senses and proper lifetime. Think, by keeping this how many good things you can do for others!!! Don't worry, Be Happy, Be confident, Be Honest, Help others, say thanks to God daily.

Try out your ideas by visualizing them in action

Goals must be under our control. We need targets and directions upon which to focus our efforts

The world makes way for the man, who knows where he is going

To dream anything that you want to dream, that is the beauty of the human mind. To do anything that you want to do, that is the strength of the human will. To trust yourself, to test your limits, that is the courage to succeed

Achieving a short-term goal is like winning a game, but achieving a long-term goal is like winning the tournament

Set positive goals and reasonable expectation

The first and most important step toward success is the feeling that we can succeed

Great achievements begin with small opportunities

Success is the journey, not a destination

Many receive advice, only the wise profit from it

Desert Growing Plants

2009-06-23T22:02:00.000-07:00

Deserts are the home to many living things. Desert plants often look different than other plants. Desert plants have two main adaptations:

Ability to collect and store water

Features that reduce water loss

Most desert plants grow far apart and their roots extend out so that each plant can get water and minerals from a large area. Other desert plants have roots that extend deep into the ground to obtain water from deep beneath the ground.

When it rains, cactuses and other succulent (juicy) plants take up as much water as possible and store it in their leaves and stems which will provide the water they need during the dry months. Their waxy leaves and stems also slow down water loss through transpiration.

Other plants survive by shedding their leaves in dry periods to reduce water loss. Some plants have pin-like leaves to reduce water loss.

Barrel Cactus:
The pleated shape of the Barrel Cactus allows it to expand when it rains and store water in its spongy tissue. It shrinks in size during dry times as it uses the stored water.

The Prickly Pear Cactus: The prickly pear cactus grows up to 7 feet tall. It has circular pads arising from a thick, round trunk. The pads are actually fast growing stems. This cactus grows in a upright position with pads sticking out at all angles covered with barbed spin. The pads are four to six inches long, 9 inches wide, and .75 inches thick. The pads are very course and covered with spines. There are flowers located on the pads of the cactus.

Saguaro:
The Saguaro grows very slowly, perhaps an inch a year, but to a great height, 15 to 50 feet.

Old Man Cactus:
Hair on the leaves of plants helps to reduce the evaporation of moisture from the surface of leaves by reflecting sunlight and inhibiting air movement.

Some other photos of desert plants are:

Santa Cruz & Monterey Bay Flowers, California, USA

2009-06-23T09:00:00.000-07:00

"Great minds discuss idea, mediocre minds discuss events, small minds discuss people"

"The mould of a man's fortune is in his own hands"

"Successful businesses are the result of courageous decisions"

"All you need in this life is ignorance and confidence, and then success is true"

"There are two things to aim at in life, first, to get what you want and after that to enjoy it,only wisest of mankind achieve the second"

"Love is the most important ingredient of success. Without it, your life echoes emptiness. With it, your life vibrates warmth and meaning"

"Success is not the matter of desire, but the product of hardwork"

"The greatest success stories were created by people who recognized a problem and turned it into an opportunity"

"The first and most important step toward success is the feeling is that we can succeed"

Definition for Colors using Flowers

2009-06-22T23:23:00.000-07:00

Colors: The science of color is sometimes called chromatics. Color can influence our emotions, our actions and how we respond to various people, things and ideas. Much has been studied and written about color and its impact on our daily lives.

Pink: Pink is the color of universal love. Pink is a quiet color. Pink provides feelings of caring, tenderness, self-worth love and acceptance.

Purple: Purple also considered a color of royalty and nobility in ancient symbolism. Incorporate violet flowers in your life as a symbol of faith, and a reminder that nobility of the heart is the greatest aspiration.

Yellow: Yellow is full of creative and intellectual energy. Yellow symbolizes wisdom. Yellow means joy and happiness.

Blue: Blue is the coolest color - the color of the sky, ocean, etc. A pure blue is the color of inspiration, sincerity and spirituality. Gather up a bunch of blue flowers when you need a boost of inspiration.

Green: Green is the color of nature, fertility, life. Grass green is the most restful color. Green symbolizes self-respect and well being. Green is the color of balance. It also means learning, growth and harmony.

Orange: Orange is a power color. It is one of the healing colors. It also stimulates enthusiasm and creativity.

Red: Red is the warmest of all colors. Red is a very emotionally intense color. Red is the color of fire and blood, so it is associated with energy, war, danger, strength, power, determination as well as passion, desire, and love. Send red flowers to someone who needs a jolt of energy – this shock of color is sure to get their engines revving!

White: White is the color of purity, Cleansing, Healing and Clarity. White means kindness.

Brown: Brown is the color of the earth and is associated with the material side of life. People who prefer brown are often conventional and orderly.

Orchids - "The God's Flower"

2009-06-22T23:00:00.000-07:00

Orchids belongs to the Orchidacae family, with all the difference in size, shape, colour and scent. A majority of orchids are perennial epiphytes, which grow anchored to trees or shrubs in the tropics and subtropics. Other species are lithophytes, growing on rocks or very rocky soil, or are terrestrial. Nearly all temperate orchids are terrestrial. Orchids are one of the most fascinating, beautiful and peculiar variety among the flowering plants.

Orchids generally have simple leaves with parallel veins. The seeds are generally almost microscopic and very numerous. Some species of orchids may flower two or three times a year and some flower annually. It is estimated that there are about 25,000 species of orchids in the world. The most famous orchid in the world is the vanilla orchid (planifolia). Both the seeds and surrounding pulp within the seed pod of the Vanilla orchid are used to make the extremely popular flavoring vanilla extract.

Orchids are grown for the astonishing beauty and variety of their flowers. Most white orchids are pollinated by night-flying moths, colourful orchids usually by bees and the smaller orchids by mosquitoes. Of the many orchid varieties, the Phalaenopsis, Cymbidium and Dendrobium orchids are the most popular types. Orchids are identified by their flowers, whose structure is always complex, designed to attract pollinating insects.

The basic orchid flower is composed of three sepals and three petals, with the medial petal usually modified and enlarged (then called the labellum or lip), forming a platform near the center of the corolla. In many orchids, the sepals are colored and generally resemble the petals. The reproductive organs in the centre (stamens and pistil) have been transformed into a structure called the column.

Hobby growers should try growing hybrids of Phalaenopsis, Paphiopedilum, Dendrobium, Oncidium, Vanda and Epidendrum. Out of about a thousand species of orchids in India, over 600 are to be found in Arunachal Pradesh alone, hence this state can rightly be called as "Orchid Paradise". The National Orchid Garden in the Singapore Botanic Gardens is considered by some to be among the finest collections of orchids in cultivation open to the public.

Orchids can impart a wide variety of messages, but historically the meanings of orchids have included wealth, love, and beauty. In Victorian England orchids took on the mantle of luxury. No doubt this image stems from the fact that these flowers are hard to find anywhere but tropical places. Anyone during this era who could afford to buy these exotic blooms would have to be a rich person. Orchids still have a connotation of luxury as they are still hard to find and exotic.

The Key to success

2009-06-21T22:30:00.000-07:00

Some beautiful quotes given here for your success:

1.The achievements of an organization are the result of the combined effort of each individual.

2.Team success and individual success can be synonymous.

3.Success treads on the heels of every right effort.

4. Success is when you learn how to do all things well - the simple things and the difficult things.

5. Choose your own path in life and follow it freely,walking gently,lightly and joyfully towards your goal.

6.The devotion of thought to an honest achievement makes the achievement possible.

7.The three great essentials to achieve anything worthwhile are - hardwork, motive and common sense.

8.Great goals require great passion.

9.Today's preparation determines tomorrow's achievement.

10.Great minds must be ready not only to take opportunities, but to make them.

17 Mile Drive, California, USA

2009-06-21T08:32:00.000-07:00

Monterey is a coastal paradise for recreation, water sports, golf, wine tasting, arts, dining, and festivals. There is a small toll charge for driving on the 17 Mile Drive, although if you stop off for a bite to eat and any of the restaurants en-route, this will usually be refunded. There are three main gates for entering and exiting the 17-mile drive—the Pacific Grove Gate to the North, the Highway 1 Gate on the Southwest and the Carmel Gate to the South which gives you direct access to Carmel-by-the-Sea. Be sure to pick up a 17-Mile Drive Map when you stop at the entry gate, just follow the marked route and enjoy the "21 Points of Interest" along the way:

Shepherd's Knoll : Spectacular views of the valley and the Santa Cruz Mountains
Huckleberry Hills : An abundance of native huckleberry bushes, this is one of the highest elevations in Del Monte Forest
Poppy Hills Golf Course
The Inn & Links at Spanish Bay
Spanish Bay : This is a popular picnic spot
The Restless Sea : An underwater rock shelf causes wave turbulence
Point Joe : Early mariners often crashed on these rocks after mistaking this for the entrance to Monterey Bay
China Rock : This landmark is named in honor of Chinese who settled in nearby
Bird Rock Hunt Course
Bird Rock : Bring binoculars if you have them (there's a row of telescopes on site if you don't) to get an up-close view of hundreds of birds, harbor seals and sea lions.
Seal Rock Picnic Area
Spyglass Hill Golf Course
Fanshell Overlook : Fanshell Overlook attracts harbor seals and is closed during harbor seal pupping season April 1 to June 1
Cypress Point Lookout
Crocker Grove : Native pine and cypress trees are abundant in this 13-acre nature reserve
The Lone Cypress : The Lone Cypress Tree is one of the most famous trees in the world
The Ghost Tree
Pescadero Point : The northernmost point of Carmel Bay and Stillwater Cove)
The Lodge at Pebble Beach
Peter Hay Par-3 Golf Course
Pebble Beach Equestrian Center

Some pictures taken at the 17 mile drive ..

Activities: Driving, Golfing

Address : S.F. Bay Area, Monterey, California

Steps to Becoming a Confident Photographer

2009-06-21T01:36:00.001-07:00

Digital Photography School has published an very interesting and useful article "7 Steps to Becoming a Confident Photographer", written by Natalie Norton. This will be a must to know for all beginners. Key tips, the author focuses are

Shoot Frequently
Shoot in different conditions
Set Photography Goals
Read a lot of photography guides and tips
Ask questions
Change your paradigm and perspective.

Read the article at : DPS

San Francisco, California, USA

2009-06-08T19:18:00.000-07:00

San Francisco is one of the most popular vacation destinations in the USA. It is on the coast of California. The city is known for its steep streets with panoramic views of beautiful San Francisco Bay and the surrounding mountains. It has a very moderate climate with warm summers and chilly winters but without extremes. Near San Francisco is San Jose and Santa Clara - the known as "Silicon Valley", home of the largest concentration of electronics and computer firms in the USA.

Tourist attractions in San Francisco include:

Golden Gate Bridge
Coit Tower
Alcatraz
Fisherman’s Wharf
Ghirardelli Square
Chinatown
Wax Museum
Lombard Street
Cable Cars
Union Square
Aquarium of the Bay
China Town
Napa Valley

Coit Tower:

Coit tower was built in 1933, by Lillie Hitchcock Coit, who left funds to be used to beautify the city she loved. The view from the top of the tower is magnificent. The attraction has a small gift shop adjacent to the elevator. The art deco tower, 210 feet (64 m) of unpainted reinforced concrete, was designed by architects Arthur Brown, Jr. and Henry Howard with murals by 26 different artists Timings: Coit Tower is open from 10am to 6pm daily.

Golden Gate Bridge:

The Golden Gate Suspension Bridge connects San Francisco with Marine County and other districts further north. Before the bridge was built, the only practical short route between San Francisco and what is now Marin County was by boat across a section of San Francisco Bay. Opened on May 28th 1937, the bridge took four years to build, and cost 35 million dollars by the time it opened, the director of the project being Joseph B. Strauss. A monument to its builder, Joseph B. Strauss, stands at the end of the bridge. Strauss constructed more than 400 major steel bridges all over the world, including one in St Petersburg. The splendid scenery all around makes it the most beautiful bridge in the world.

Note: Pedestrians: no charge. Car toll charged.

Alcatraz:

Alcatraz is a small island located in the middle of San Francisco Bay in California, United States. As this rocky island, covering an area of some 12acres/5hectares and rising to a height of 135ft/41m. It served as a lighthouse, then a military fortification, then a military prison followed by a federal prison until 1963. It became a national recreation area in 1972 and received landmarking designations in 1976 and 1986. Today, the island is a historic site operated by the National Park Service as part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area and is open to tours. Visitors can reach the island by ferry ride from Pier 33, near Fisherman's Wharf in San Francisco.

Wax Museum:

To the east of the Ripley's Believe It or Not! Museum in San Francisco is the Wax Museum at Fisherman's Wharf, with over 200 wax figures. A millennium of history is represented in fabulous scenes from the birth of Christ through the most dramatic milestones in man's history.

Timings: daily 10am - 9pm

Lombard Street:

A drive over any of San Francisco's mind-blowing hills leaves the impression that building a city here took some guts. San Francisco's Lombard Street must be the most winding, bendy street in the whole world, zigzagging down a hillside in the city. With seven sharp corners in just 200 yards, there is a cable car stop close to the top of Lombard Street, which provides a convenient place to take a leisurely walk down this unusual street. Lombard Street was originally built with so many curves, as the hill was too steep for the city's horses. Lombard Street is "the crookedest [most winding] street in world".

Cable Cars:

Andrew S. Hallidie was an Englishman who came to California at the time of the Gold Rush. He made steel cables for mining. In those days all transport was horse drawn and when in 1869 Hallidie witnessed a serious accident caused by a horse losing its footing on a slippery road, he conceived the idea of replacing the horse-drawn trams with a more modern system. On August 2nd 1873, after three years experimentation, he successfully demonstrated the first cable car in Clay Street. His invention incorporated a moving cable running in a trench under the street, driven by huge wheels housed in specially constructed engine sheds or "barns". The "gripmen", as the drivers are called, lock the cars in position on the traveling cables; thus held fast they are able to cope with even the steepest of the city's hills. Cable cars are an icon of San Francisco.

Fisherman’s Wharf:

Fisherman's Wharf remains one of San Francisco's most popular tourist destinations. The Wharf consists of a long, coast side row of seafood restaurants, street vendors, souvenir stores, and beautiful ocean scenery. Fisherman's Wharf is full of shops and popular with sea lions.

Address: The Embarcadero and Taylor St, San Francisco, California.

Ghirardelli Square: Ghirardelli Square was inaugurated in 1964. Ghirardelli Square is a landmark with shops and restaurants in the Fisherman's Wharf area of San Francisco, California. The Ghirardelli Square gardens were laid out by Lawrence Halpin who also designed the concrete fountain in Rose Court. Ghirardelli Square Chocolate Festival takes place in early September.

Union Square: Union Square was built and dedicated by San Francisco's first American mayor John Geary in 1850. Union Square is a 2.6 acres (11,000 m) plaza. The name "Union Square" stems from the fact that the area was once used for rallies and support for the Union Army during the Civil War. Today, this is the United States third-largest shopping area. is the United States' third-largest shopping area. Most stores here feature clothing, salons, upscale boutiques, art works or items for the home.

Aquarium of the Bay: Aquarium of the Bay is located at Embarcadero and Beach Street, at the edge of Pier 39 in San Francisco. Visit Aquarium of the Bay and discover San Francisco Bay's fascinating marine life. Explore the wonders of the Bay as you walk through 300-feet of crystal clear tunnels surrounded by sharks and thousands of marine animals.

China Town:

Chinatown became established in the mid 1800’s when there was a large boom in Chinese immigration to the United States. San Francisco's bustling Chinatown is a tightly-packed warren of Chinese restaurants, shops, temples and street vendors. The two main streets of interest are Grant and Stockton. Grant is more for the tourists, as the streets are lined with all kinds of shops and restaurants, and banners and lanterns usually are draped across the road. On Stockton you’ll get more of the local flavor, as the streets are lined with authentic Chinese food markets where locals go to do their shopping.

Napa Valley:

Napa Valley and Sonoma Valley are the best-known and largest vine-growing areas in California.
Today Napa Valley features more than three hundred wineries and grows many different grape varieties including Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and other popular varietals. Napa Valley is visited by as many as five million people each year.

MysterySpot - Santa Cruz, California, USA

2009-06-08T01:33:00.000-07:00

Mystery Spot:

Mystery Spot, 150 feet in diameter, located in the redwoods of the Santa Cruz Mountains of California. The Mystery spot was discovered in 1939 by a group of surveyors and opened to the public in 1940. The visitor to this Mystery Spot leans towards the southwest upon entering the area, and the lean becomes more acute as he proceeds towards the center of the spot. Even the trees here do not stand perpendicular. In this spot, ball roll uphill, chairs sit on walls and people lean over so far they can't see their shoes, yet they don't fall down. It's Unusual, It's Amazing.

Cost: Adult - $5, Children - $3
Parking: $5 per car
Hours: Summer 9 am - 7 pm, Winter 9 am - 5 pm
Address: 465 Mystery Spot Rd, Santa Cruz, CA 95065
http://www.mysteryspot.com/

Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary - Karnataka, India

2009-03-28T00:16:00.000-07:00

Ranganathittu :

Near Srirangapattana is the Rangantittu Bird Sanctuary, which is the breeding site for several bird species. It is around 30kms from Mysore. In the Sanctuary, a little boat takes you close to the islands where the trees are covered with birds of different species. Every little island was home to nests of the most exotic birds. The only sounds are the cries of birds and the ripple of water. Ideal for picnicking and bird watching. The sanctuary was declared a bird sanctuary in 1940. The best time to visit is between June to October.

Birds coming from Siberia, Australia and even North America can be spotted here. The Marsh Crocodile is a common inhabitant of the riverine reed beds. Breeding water birds include Asian Openbill Stork, Woolly-necked Stork, Black-headed Ibis, White Ibis, Lesser Whistling Duck, Painted Stork, Indian Shag, Stork-billed Kingfisher and other common birds like egrets, cormorants and Oriental Darter.

Timings: 8 am - 6 pm
Entry Fee: Adult - Rs 10, Child - Rs 5
Boat Ride Fee: Adult - Rs 10, Child - Rs 5

Enjoy the photos:

Bats: "We need fruits, otherwise we will stand up-side-down"

"Sun Bath is too good for our health, We don't need any fairness cream !"

"Get-together party !"

"There is no lock for our home"

"I'm waiting for my lunch, there is no need to cook !!"

"Visit our home through boat service"

The Bangalore Palace - Karnataka, India

2009-03-25T04:53:00.000-07:00

The palace is located in the city of Bangalore, India, was built by Chamaraja Wodeyar, Maharaja of Mysore in the year 1887 AD. Now owned by the current scion of the Mysore royal family, Srikanta Datta Narsimharaja Wodeyar. The Palace was built in Tudor Style Architecture with turreted parapets, battlements, fortified towers and arches. During a visit to England, Chamaraja Wodeyar was inspired by the Windsor Castle in London, and along similar lines he built this palace in Tudor style. The palace is famous for its elegantly carved woodwork.

Some paintings of Raja Ravi Verma are also present here. The inner walls of the Bangalore Palace are also festooned with paintings belonging to the mid-19th century. One of the walls of the Durbar Hall has a set of windows that are decorated with stained glass. The main attraction of Bangalore Palace Bangalore is an art gallery that displays several historical photos, including those of Viceroys, Maharajas and other royal personages and exquisite paintings and carvings. At that time it cost about Rs One lakh to construct the palace. It is one of the major tourist attraction in the city.

Visiting Hours: 10 AM to 6 PM (Sunday Holiday).
Address: Bangalore Palace, Jayamahal Rd, Armane Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India.

Kesava Temple - Somnathpur, Karnataka, India

2009-03-19T09:45:00.000-07:00

Somnathpur is a small village located in southern Karnataka. This village is situated on the banks of river Cauvery, is some 35 from Mysore. Somnathpur has the famous Chennakeshava temple. The history of the Chennakeshava temple is inscribed on the stone slab at the main gateway of the temple. The construction of the Chennakeshava temple, is the one dedicated to lord Keshava was started by Somanatha, a high-ranking officer under Hoysala King Narasimha III (1254-1291 AD.). He founded a village on the banks of the Cauvery and then embarked on constructing temples in a bid to further his immortality. It is a splendid example of Hoysala style of architecture, is the last major temple of the Hoysala dynasty.

It stands on a raised platform in the center of a spacious enclosure. There are a number of star shaped folds on the outer walls of Somnathpur Temple. All around the temple is an open verandah having 64 cells. The wealth of sculptured images is simply unbelievable, since from the base to the projected eaves, every inch of available wall surface is covered with the most exquisitely sculptured images. At the temple, the outer walls are decorated with a series of star-shaped folds and the entire surface is covered with carved stone plaques. The walls above the plinth are also carved with exquisite figures of gods and goddesses, taken from the Hindu puranas, and meticulously arranged in vertical panels.

There are no accommodation facilities at the town of Somnathpur therefore one should stay at Mysore. The nearest airport is at Bangalore . The nearest railway station is at Mysore .

Timings: 9:30 am - 5:30 pm
Entry Fee: Adults - Rs 10

Mahabalipuram - Chennai (India)

2009-03-10T00:20:00.000-07:00

Mahabalipuram is a town in Kancheepuram district in the Indian state of Tamilnadu. It features various historic monuments built mainly between the 7th and the 9th century and has been acknowledged as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The monuments are mostly rock cut and monolithic, reflecting the early Dravidian style of architecture.

Mahabalipuram, or Mamallapuram, was the chief seaport of the Pallavas who ruled most portions of South India from the first century B.C to the eighth century A.D., and it is now recognized as the site of some of the greatest architectural and sculptural achievements in India. Most of the magnificent monuments of this ancient sea port were built during the reign of Narasimhavarman I & II(630-728 A.D.) of the Pallava dynasty. Mamallapuram, It was named after King Narasimhavarman I, or Mamalla as he was known, the greatest of the Pallava kings.

Mamalla built the majority of the monuments, including Arjuna’s penance and the Govardhanadhari cave temple. The five rathas are carved on a hill about two-hundred meters to the south, along with three sculptures of a lion, an elephant, and Nandi, a bull. Each ratha is named after the five Pandavas of the Mahabharatham – Yudhishtira, Bhima, Arjuna, Draupadi and one for the twins, Nakula and Sahadeva. The Shore Temple was built by Narasinmhavarman II. There are three shrines in the temple. Two are dedicated to Lord Shiva and the other one is for Lord Vishnu. The best time to visit this area is in winter, between the months of November and February.

Mountain Carvings:

Five Rathas:

Shore Temple:

Stone miracle:

Mysore - Karnataka, India

2009-03-09T06:48:00.000-07:00

Mysore is the second largest city in the state of Karnataka, India. The city is situated at the base of the Chamundi Hills. Mysore is Situated 770m above sea level and has a warm and cool climate throughout the year. Until 1947, Mysore was the capital of the Kingdom of Mysore . Mysore is situated between the rivers Cauvery and Kabini, which are a source of drinking water to the city. The Hindu Goddess Chamundiswari killed the demon Mahishasura, and the name Mysore has been derived.

Mysore is famous for the Dasara festival , the palace, the mysore painting, the sweet dish Mysore Pak , the Mysore silk saree, Insense stick, Mysore betel, the salubrious climate and the Mysore sandalwood. It is also famous for its handicrafts as well. Most of the work is wood based. The artifacts are made out of sandalwood, rosewood and teak wood. The best place to buy these handicrafts and wooden carvings is the Cauvery Handicrafts Emporium of the Karnataka Handicrafts Development Corporation.

Places to visit in Mysore:

Mysore Brindhavan Garden
The Mysore Palace
Chamundi Hills
Mysore Zoo
St.Philomena's Church
Mysore Railway Museum
The Jahanmohan Palace
Lalitha Mahal Palace
Shopping

Mysore Brindhavan Garden:

It is located 18 km from Mysore. Krishnaraja sagar dam is constructed across the river Cauvery. On the down stream of Dam the beautiful Brindavan Garden is stretched out, with well planned and well maintained lawns, innumerable pools and fountains. The Dancing fountains called as musical fountains are a major attraction among the tourists.

Timings: 8 am - 8 pm (weekends open till 9 pm)

The Mysore Palace:

Mysore palace is one of the largest palaces in India and one of the most splendid. The palace was the residence of the Wodeyar Mahararaja's of the Mysore State. The architectural style of the palace is commonly described as Indo-Saracenic, and blends together Hindu, Muslim, Rajput, and Gothic styles of architecture. The interiors and architecture is a great pleasure to watch.

Timings: 10 am - 5:30 pm
Entry fee: Adult - RS 15, Children - Rs 5

Chamundi Hills:

Mysore is located at the foothills of Chamundi Hills. On top of the hills there is Chamundeeshwari temple that serves as a famous landmark. Nearby to the temple, there is a statue of Mahishasura, who was a demon killed by the goddess Chamundeshwari. Half way up the hill, is a huge monolith statue of Nandi, the bull and vehicle of Lord Shiva. A panoramic view of the city is seen from the top of the hills.

St.Philomena's Church:

St. Philomena's Church, in the Gothic style.The beautiful image of Philomena, who is known as a martyr for Christ, is placed uncharacteristically in an underground chapel. The church is located at a distance of 2km from the Palace, near the 5 light circle.

Timings: 5 am - 8 pm

Jaganmohan Palace (Art Gallery):

Maharaja Krishnaraja Wodeyar built the beautiful Jaganmohan Palace in 1861. The Jayachamarajendra Art Gallery in Mysore is considered one of the best art galleries in South India because of its excellent collection of paintings and artifacts that once belonged to the Wodeyars of Mysore. The three-storied Jaganmohan Palace was converted into this art gallery in 1875. This gallery has an excellent collection of musical instruments that is displayed on the second floor.

Timings: 8:30 am - 5:30 pm
Entry Fee: Adults - Rs 15, Children Rs 5 (Photography not Allowed)

Lalitha Mahal Palace:

Maharaja Krishnaraja Wodeyar built Lalitha Mahal in 1913 to house his overseas guests. This palace gets its beauty by the Chamundi hill to its backside and is located towards east of mysore city. The palace is eyecatching by its pure whiteness which comes from the granite stone construction.The Palace hotel offers an experience of princely living in a real Maharaja's palace.

Mysore Zoo:

Timings: 8:30 am - 5:30 pm (Tuesday Holiday)
Entry Fee: Adults - Rs 15, Children - Rs 5

Mysore Railway Museum:

This small musuem near the railway station exhibits a Maharaja's Saloon Carriage dating to 1899, among other exhibits.

Timings: 10 am - 5 pm

Shopping:

Karnataka Government run Cauvery Arts Emporium on sayyaji rao road
The Government Silk Weaving Factory
The Government Sandal Oil Factory

Brindhavan Garden - Mysore

2009-03-09T02:08:00.000-07:00

The Brindhavan garden is laid on the banks of Krishnarajasagar Dam. The dam is constructed across the river Cauvery for irrigation purposes to cover mainly Mandya District and some parts of Mysore district. The Dam was completed in 1932 and named after Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV. The dam is 2606 m long and constructed entirely in stone in surkhi mortar. On the down stream of Dam the beautiful Brindavan Garden is stretched out, with well planned and well maintained lawns, innumerable pools and fountains.

The Brindavan Garden was built in the year 1942, by the then India's finest Engineer - Sir M. Vishveswariah. He used limestone and brickpowder instead of cement to make this Garden. The Gardens were designed by Sir Mirza Ismail - the progressive Diwan of Mysore. Spread over an area of 150 acres, the Brindavan Gardens is considered to be one of the best Gardens of India.The Dancing fountains called as musical fountains are a major attraction among the tourists.The Musical fountains have spectacular harmony of water, colors and music. From Mysore it is a 30-minute drive to reach these exquisite gardens.

Timings:

Brindavan garden is open from 7:00am to 8:00pm every day.
On weekends the lighting are done from 7:00pm to 8:45pm.
During Dasara Festival the garden is illuminated every day.

Top 10 - Web hosting providers

2009-03-08T01:36:00.001-08:00

If you are looking for a web hosting provider, it is very important to find a webhosting provider who offers exactly what you need in the way of hosting. The site webhostingpal.com lists down the top 10 best web hosting providers with the best recommended web hosting , most reliable and low cost web hosting companies, then rates them according to reliability, price, features, support, control panel and ease of use. Checkout http://www.webhostingpal.com/top10hosts.php

Jaganmohan Palace (Sri Jayachamarajendra Art Gallery), Mysore, Karnataka, India

2009-03-08T00:40:00.000-08:00

The Sri Jayachamarajendra Art Gallery in Mysore is considered one of the best art galleries in South India because of its excellent collection of paintings and artifacts that once belonged to the Wodeyars of Mysore. The three-storied Jaganmohan Palace was converted into this art gallery in 1875. This palace is towards the western part of the famous mysore palace and at a walkable distance. Until the completion of the main palace auditorium in 1912 all the annual day and dasara festival celebration were taking place here. Now this is a famous art gallary.

On the ground floor there are paintings and murals that depict the genealogy of the Mysore kings and princes. The first floor is a treasury of paintings of various artists from across the world. The gallery also has paintings by Raja Ravi Verma - 'Sakuntala', 'Krishna and Balram', 'Harishchandra' all of them are interesting in that you will be able to see how popular iconographies developed under the influence of Varma. This gallery has an excellent collection of musical instruments that is displayed on the second floor. The Maharajas especially Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV used many of these musical instruments.

Mysore Palace - Karnataka, India

2009-02-19T09:28:00.000-08:00

Mysore palace is one of the largest palaces in India and one of the most splendid. The palace was the residence of the Wodeyar Mahararaja's of the Mysore state, also known as Amba Vilas. Initially the palace was chiseled out of wood but it burnt down an fire in 1897. Later in 1912 it was reconstructed by "Ranadheera Kantheerava Narasaraja wodeyar". The architectural style of the palace is commonly described as Indo-Saracenic, and blends together Hindu, Muslimajput, and Gothic styles of architecture. It is a three-storied stone structure, with marble domes and a 145 ft five-storied tower. The palace is surrounded by a large garden. The construction was complete in 1912.

A double-headed eagle as the royal symbol of Mysore. The palace houses a treasure of superb carvings and artistic works from all over the world. The palace is built around an open courtyard, to the east of which is the elephant gate. On the first floor is the Durbar Hall and towards the north is the Ambavilasa. The Kalyanmantap or the marriage hall is awesome. The hall itself is magnificent and is decorated with huge chandeliers, and multicolored stain glass arranged in peacock designs. The historic Mysore Palace - Durbar Hall of the palace has an ornate ceiling and sculpted pillars which are said to have been painted with gold. Another attraction in the palace is the golden throne. This gold artistic royal throne of the Wodeyars is displayed only during the Dussera festival.

The palace houses several rooms of importance. These include Audience Chamber Public Durbar, Royal wedding hall, Armoury. On sundays, national holidays and during Dasara navarathri festival, the palace is lit up with lights which is festival for eyes.

Chamundi Hills - Mysore, Karnataka, India

2009-02-18T06:00:00.000-08:00

Mysore is located at the foothills of Chamundi Hills. On top of the hills there is Chamundeshwari temple that serves as a famous landmark. Nearby to the temple, there is a statue of Mahishasura, who was a demon killed by the goddess Chamundeshwari. The silver-plated doorway has the images of the Goddess in different forms. On top of the hill besides the temples there is a small palace that belongs to the Kings of Mysore called Lalithadri.

Half way up the hills is a huge magnificent five-metre Nandi, carved from a single piece of black-granite in 1659, this beautiful carved statue was a gift by the Maharaja, Dodda Devaraja Wodeyar. A panoramic view of the city is seen from the top of the hills, among other landmarks, you can see the Race Course, the Lalitha Mahal Palace and the Mysore Palace.

Munnar - Kerela, India

2009-02-10T05:37:00.001-08:00

Munnar (Idukki district) is a town located in Kerala state in the southern Western Ghats in South India. Munnar is at the confluence of three rivers. In Tamil, the word 'munnu' means "three" and 'aar' means "river". Hence "Munnar" is a shortened version of 'Munnu Aar'. The 3 mountain streams joining together here are Madurapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala. Munnar enjoys a salubrious climate. In 2000, the Government of Kerala declared Munnar as a tourist spot. This has helped in attracting more tourists to this beautiful hill resort. The two educational institutes in Munnar are Govt. Arts & Science College and College of Engineering. Hospitals in Munnar are Tata General Hospital, Matha Hospital and Arun Hospital.

During the British rule of India, Munnar was developed to cultivate tea plants. Tea or Chai is the most widely drunk beverage in the whole world. The tea leaves are mostly hand plucked. The tea plant is plucked every 5-10 days, depending on where it grows. To make one kg black tea, approx. 4 kg tea leaves are needed. One tea plant produces about 70 kg black tea a year. The tea plants covered Munnar hills makes the feeling of seeing a wide green carpet. Over twelve varieties of spices including ginger, garlic, cardamom, vannilla, pepper, cinnamon, coffee, tea, clove and nutmeg is cultivated in Munnar and its neighbouring villages.

General information of munnar:

Altitude: 1600 Mts to 1800 Mts above sea level
Tourist Season: August to March
Languages spoken: Malayalam, Tamil and English
Nearest Airport: Cochin and Madurai
Nearest Railway Station: Aluva
STD Code: 0486

Eravikulam National Park (15 km from Munnar) : The Eravikulam National Park is situated in the Devikulam Taluk of the Idukki District. It was declared as a sanctuary in 1975. Considering the ecological, fauna, floral, geo-morphological and zoological significance, it was declared as a National park in 1978. It covers an area of 97 sq kms of grasslands and evergreen forests. The park is breathtakingly beautiful.

Marayoor: Marayoor is about 40 Km away, where Sandalwood forest, Muniyaras (ancient caves) and water falls (Thoovanam) are located.

Trekking Areas: Anamudi, Rajamala, Meesapulimala, Top Station, Kundala, Devikulam.

Thekkady - Kerala, India

2009-02-08T20:53:00.001-08:00

Thekkady (a town in Idukki district), is a wonderful and lovely place for nature lovers, it is full of flora and fauna. It is in Kerala - a southern state of India. It has a cool and comfortable climate. Thekkady offers facilites for trekking, boating and elephant ride. Thekkady is very famous Ayurveda center & offers traditional spa treatments. The spices available in thekkady are cardamom, cinnamon, clove and black pepper.

Places to visit in Thekkady are :

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
The Sanctuary Watch Tower
Kumuly
Mangala Devi Temple
Pandikuzhi
ChellarKovil
Vandiperiyar
Vandanmedu

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary: Thekkady is famous for the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and this is situated on the banks of the Periyar Lake, an artificial lake, here we can see elephants, sambars, tigers, lion, nilgiri Langurs etc. The Periyar Wildlife Santuary is famous for its dense evergreen, moist deciduous forests and Savanna grasslands. The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is spread 777 sq km, of which 360 sq km is thick evergreen forest and it was declared as a Tiger Reserve in 1978. Here we can view the wildlife at close quarters from the safety of the boat. Entry Timing for the wildlife sanctuary : 6 am - 6 pm.

The Santuary Watch tower : The Santuary Watch tower is situated in the forest interior gives you a panoramic view of the park. It is in the control of Forest Department.

Kumuli (4km from Thekkady): It is the important place for shopping, and the accomodation in the periyar region. The main bus station is also situated here.

Pandikuzhi (5km from Kumuli): It is the fantastic place for Trekking.

Mangala Devi Temple (15km from Thekkady): It is the famous forest temple, which is covered by dense trees. This temple is built in the kerela style of architecture, visitors are allowed here only on the Chithra Pournami festival day.

Vandiperiyar (18km from Thekkady): Government Agriculture Farm and Flower Garden have a delightful array of roses,orchids,etc.

Chellarkovil (15km from Kumuli): The cascading waterfalls hereis a feast for the eyes.

Vandanmedu (25km from Kumuly): This is one of the World's largest auction centre for cardamom.

Other info:

Languages : Malayalam, Tamil & English.
STD code : 0486
Altitude : 700 - 1900 m above sea level.

Enjoy the photos:

Aquarium photography Tips

2009-02-08T03:29:00.000-08:00

Most of the photographers love to photograph birds, animals, flowers, nature etc. They mostly neglect one of the most colorful subjects - The fish & family. Though marine photography and under sea photography is a costly affair and that needs special devices, aquarium photography is a good, simple and affordable one. Wonderful photographs can be taken of these beautiful and fascinating subjects, with very little cost and the normal photographic equipments.This article brings you some of the techniques and tips for Aquarium photography.

Before you start:

Ambient light : Ambient light in the room should be kept at very minimum to avoid any reflections off the aquarium glass, through which the pictures will be taken.
Background : It is better to cover the backside of the aquarium with non-reflecting black or dark blue papers. One can also have some dark green colored background pictures for the aquarium.
Clean glass : Clean the front glass inside & out . Any dust on the glass can spoil the entire photo.
Clean water : Clean and filter the water so that there are no floating particles in the water
Most aquariums have lights at the top for decorational purpose. However, this light will be enough to capture the subject and high shutter speed. So, it is always useful to shoot with flash. Another way could be having the aquarium in bring light ( may be keep it in open space where you get good sun light ).
Generally when photographing, the camera will be at a distance from the aquarium and so the camera flash cannot be used as it causes reflection on front glass. Have a seperate flash and keep it away from the camera.
The lens choice depends on subject depth you need.

photo of bensonkua

Tips & Techniques: Now we are ready to take the shot.

Mark the subject and your field of view.
Set ISO values at 400 or 800.
Mount the camera on a tripod.
Set the camera shutter speed to the faster speed that the camera supports.
Using manual focussing is preferred. If you are not comforatable with it , use auto-focussing. Use small aperture.
Hold the flash at the top of the aquarium (above the water ) and point it downwards with the flash head parallel to the water surface.Use some kind of diffuser ( like tracing paper) to soften the flash light.
Have a close look at the histogram ( incase of DSLR ) to determine the correct aperture.
Now with this setup, keep looking for the instance when the subject appears in the frame and release the shutter. This need quick reflexes.
Try this till you get a picture that you desired.

Kodaikanal Flowers - Tamilnadu, India

2009-02-05T09:42:00.000-08:00

Here are some of the gorgeous flowers pictures taken at Kodaikanal:

"Nothing is impossible to a willing heart"

"Success doesn't come to you.. you go to it"

"All great achievements require time"

"The highest wisdom is kindness"

"Goals are not only absolutely necessary to motivate us they are essential to really keep us alive"

"When we have done our best, we should wait for the result in peace"

"Take time to play, it is the secret of staying young"

"Take on your problems one by one and work things out"

"If you cannot do great things, do small things in a great way"

"Take time to think, it is the source of power"

Bannergatta National Park - Karnataka, India

2009-01-31T22:09:00.000-08:00

The Bannerghatta National Park, situated in the south Indian state of Karnataka was established in the year 1971. The 25,000 acre park is home to Panthers, Lions, Tigers and a large variety of Birds. The safari is the most exciting part. Tourists are accommodated in large well equipped vans managed by Karnataka State Tourism Development Corp (KSTDC). The safari takes us into dry deciduous forest and thorny scrub. There we can see tiger, lion, bison, bear, deer, butterflies etc.

Bison:

We can make a walk through the Zoological garden, there we can see Chettah, Elephant, Tortoise, Monkeys, Fox, Swan, White Peacock, Aquarium etc. The country's first Butterfly Park was established at the Bannerghatta Biological Park. The Butterfly Park is spread across 7.5 acres of land. It comprises a butterfly conservatory, museum and an audio-visual room.

Enjoy the photos:

Lion:

Tiger:

White Tiger:

Location : 20 kms south of Bangalore, Karnataka, India
Area covered : 104.27 sq. km
Visiting hours : 9 am to 5 pm
Holiday : Closed every Tuesday

Enjoy the photos:

Love Birds:

Parrot:

Colourful bird:

Zebra:

Elephant:

Iguana:

Squirrel:

Innovative Film City - Bangalore, Karnataka, India

2009-01-30T22:11:00.001-08:00

Innovative Film City is a new theme park in Bangalore. Though initially planned as a huge studio for making movies, they have turned this into an entertainment center for everyone. IFC is situated in Bidadi, about an hour's journey from Bangalore (On Mysore Road, go past Wonderla . take the road where Toyota Kirloskar factory is situated and keep heading straight for about 5 Kms. You'll find Innovative film city on the right. They have designed this entrance walkway in European Style, that was really good. Here are some photos taken in IFC.

The Entrance:

These are the Buildings on the walkway of IFC.

Beautiful European type structures:

The main attractions are :

Cartoon City
Go Karting
Aqua Kingdom
Cricket club of Innovation
Dinosaur World
Mirror Maze
Fossil Museum
Haunted Mansion
Ripley's Believe It or Not
Mini Golf
FunPlex
Amphitheater

Address of IFC:

Biddadi Industrial Area, Bidadi,
Bangalore, Karnataka 562109,
India.

Phone no: 080 25239196

Enjoy the photos:

Cartoon city is the very good fun place for kids.

Ripleys Believe It Or Not Musuem:

Dinosur World:

Villa Retreat Resort - Kodaikanal, Tamilnadu, India

2009-01-30T02:14:00.000-08:00

Villa Retreat is a good, decent, hygenic and scenic view resort in Kodaikanal. I enjoyed my stay here. Here are some of the pics taken during my stay.

Villa Retreat is centrally located, right beside Coakers Walk, within walking distance of the popular Kodaikanal Lake, Bryant Park, market place and Kodaikanal Bus-stand.

Enjoy the photos, which are taken from the Villa Retreat.

Location information:

Villa Retreat,
Coakers Walk,
Kodaikanal,
Tamilnadu - 624101,
India.

St. Philomena's Church - Mysore, Karnataka, India

2009-01-18T00:54:00.000-08:00

St.Philomena's Church, in constructed the Gothic style. The beautiful image of Philomena, who is known as a martyr for Christ, is placed in an underground chapel. It is over 200 years old. The church is located at a distance of 2km from the Palace. The church is open from 8am to 6pm. Holy Mass is held in the morning and evening. Special masses are held on Sundays and on festivals. This statue of St. Philomena is housed in the underground chamber. This is one of the tallest churches in India. Photography inside the cathedral is strictly prohibited. These beautiful glass-windows depict scenes from the life of Christ - his Birth, the Last Supper, the Crucifixion, the Resurrection and the Ascension. The twin spires rise up about 175 mts.

Gimp : Free photo editing tool

2008-12-22T06:48:00.001-08:00

Gimp is the Opensource photo editing tool for Linux & Windows. You can download it at www.gimp.org

Gimp Tutorials :

Sentosa - Singapore

2008-10-04T22:33:00.001-07:00

Major attractions at Sentosa are :

Carlsberg Sky Tower
Fort Siloso
Dolphin Lagoon
Sentosa Merlion
Sentosa Luge
Songs of the Sea
Underwater World
Kusu Island
Spa Botanica
Sentosa Golf Club
Rasa Sentosa Resort
Amara Sanctuary
The Sentosa Resort & Spa

Travel Details about Sentosa : http://wikitravel.org/en/Singapore/Sentosa

Underwater World:

Sentosa is a popular island resort in Singapore. Attractions include a two-kilometre long sheltered beach, Fort Siloso, two golf courses and two five-star hotels. Picture taken at Sentosa Underwater World in Singapore.

Indian Train

2007-12-06T09:22:00.001-08:00

Websites for checking Railway train ticket and availability status: