Sunday, April 18, 2010

INTERNET IN PUNE

1) Tata Indicom Broadband

Best plan : 384 kbps Unlimited, Rs. 3203 for three months.
Downer : No Downers, its the best prepaid internet in India. Full speeds as quoted with no down times due to the technology used.

2) BSNL DataOne

Best Plan : 256 kbps Unlimited, 750 Rs/Month

Downer : Must have a post paid phone to access, danger of shocking bills. Also other hidden charges like modem rent.

3) Sify

Best Plan : Unlimited 256 kbps day & 512 kbps Night, Rs 1156 per Month.

Downer : Cross 150 MB per day get 1 day reduction penalty per 25 MB even though we have paid for the month; Thats robbing.
Upload speeds only 64kbps only for that connection.

4) Hathway

Best plan : 64Kbps, Unlimited, 650 Rs/Month
Downer : Cheating with upto speeds instead of minimum which means the minimum is zero kpbs.

5) Airtel Broadband

Downer : Cheating with upto speeds instead of minimum which means the minimum is zero kpbs.

6) Reliance Infocom

Downer : Cheating with upto speeds instead of minimum which means the minimum is zero kpbs.

7) You Telecom

Downer : Cheating with upto speeds instead of minimum which means the minimum is zero kpbs.

8) Net4India

Downer : i doubt if it exists in India anymore.

SNAKE PARK

Snake Park

Location:	Pune-Satara Highway
Main Attractions:	Nine feet long King Cobra

Neelam Kumar Khaire established the Snake Park of Pune in the year 1986, with the help of Pune Municipal Corporation. In 1999, the park was included in the Rajeev Gandhi Udyan. Located on the Pune-Satara Highway, Snake Park is approximately 8 km away from the Pune city. Initially the park was set up as a home for snakes, reptiles, birds and turtles. However, some time back, a zoo was added to it. Read on to get more information about the Snake Park of Puna, India.

The Snake Park of Pune boasts of being home to more than 160 species of snakes. However, the major attraction of the park is a six-year-old, nine feet long King Cobra. There is also a library inside the park, which has information on almost each and every snake. Festivals and programs are organized on a regular basis at the Snake Park, to spread awareness about snakes and to eliminate the common misconceptions held by the people.

SARAS BAUG

Saras Baug

Location:	One km from Swargate
Main Attractions:	Lush lawns, flowers and a Lord Ganesha temple

Saras Baug lies at a distance of approximately one kilometer from Swargate, Pune. The lush green lawns of the Baug, along with its blooming flowerbeds, attract tourist from far and wide. Pune Saras Baug is also quite famous for the Ganapati temple situated inside its premises. The temple is perched on top of a small hillock and provides an amazing view of the surrounding areas. Dedicated to Lord Ganesha, it dates back to the time of Madahvrao Peshwas. Read to explore the Saras Baug of Poona, India.

The place where the park now stands was once occupied by a small lake. However, the lake got dried up and was later developed into the Saras Baug. The park is also frequented by joggers and walkers, in early morning as well as evening. Saras Baug is quite popular as a picnic spot also and can be easily reached by auto rickshaws.

PESHWA UDYAN

Peshwa Udyan

Location:	Near Saras Baug
Main Attractions:	Wildlife, animal rides and boating facilities
Timings:	09:00 am to 05:30 pm

Peshwa Udyan Zoo, situated near Saras Baug, is one of the major tourist attractions of Pune. The zoo, located away from the hustle and bustle of city life, is quite popular amongst children. The main attractions of the zoo comprise of its rich variety of wild animals, reptiles and birds. Apart from that, Peshwa Udyan Zoo also provides facilities like animal rides, boating facilities, joy rides, etc. In the following lines, we have more information about the Peshwe Udyan Zoo of Puna, India.

There is also a toy train inside the zoo, known as Phoolrani, which serves as the perfect source of enjoyment for children. The picturesque beauty of the gardens inside the Peshwa Udyan Zoo is also worth mentioning. The beauty of the gardens attracts tourists, especially during spring season, when the flowers are at their bloom. The gardens of the Peshwa Udyan Zoo of Pune remain open from 09:00 am to 05:30 pm. The entry fee for adults is Rs. 2 per person and for children, it is Re. 1 per child.

Peshwa Udyan Zoo also boasts of an exquisite temple inside its premises. Sited at the heart of the garden, the temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesha and dates back to the 17th century. The intricate carving adorning the temple, along with the beautiful wall decorations, makes it a popular tourist destination. In short, Peshwa Udyan Zoo is a must see destination for those traveling to Pune.

EMPRESS GARDEN IN PUNE

Empress Garden Pune

Location:	Near Pune Solapur Road
Main Attractions:	Popular as a picnic spot

Empress Garden is situated near the Pune Solapur Road. The garden was originally under the ownership of Sardar Vithalrao Purandhare and was managed by General Finjer. It came under the management of the British government in the year 1838. The occupation of the Empress Garden transferred in 1845 and it came under Sir Charles Napier. During that time, the garden came to be known as 'Garden of Dr. Don'. Given below is more information on the Empress Garden of Poona, India.

Empress Garden of Pune acquired its present name when queen Victoria embraced the title of 'Empress Of India'. However, since the garden was frequently used by the British soldiers as a recreational spot, it popularly came to be known as the 'Soldier's Garden'. In 1892, Empress Garden came under the control of the Bombay Government, who later transferred it to Agri-Horicultural society of western India. Spread over an area of around 59 acres, the garden is full of mangoes and tamarind trees as well as beautiful flowers.

BUND GARDEN

Bund Garden

Location:	Approximately 2 km from Pune railway station
Main Attractions:	Picturesque beauty and Boating facility

The Bund Garden is located only 2 km away from the Pune railway station. The garden is just like a mini dam constructed over Mula-Muttha River. One can have an incredible view of the surrounding areas from the garden. Boating facilities are also available inside the park. Most of the tourists who visit the Bund Garden in Pune make it a point to enjoy a boat ride in the backwaters of the river. Check out more on the Bund Garden of Puna, India.

Constructed by Sir Jamshedji Jeejeebhoy, Bund Garden has a well-designed jogging track also. Early mornings as well as evenings see a heavy rush of joggers at the park. Bund garden is also a bird watcher's paradise, especially in winters. In the winter season, one can see some of the exotic species of migratory birds here. The garden is also known as the Mahatma Gandhi Udyan and is quite popular amongst kids.

GARDENS IN PUNE

LAUNGE IN PUNE

The Best Lounges and Bars in Pune

Ben Franklin once said, "There cannot be good living, if there is not good drinking"! So here's a primer to 'good living' when in Pune.

The list below is my selection of the best bars and lounges in Pune. To relax with a caipiroska in hand after a long day, for a casual evening with that special person, or for some quality time with buddies over drinks and music.
1000 Oaks: The grand-daddy of them all, and still going strong! A hit with both the old-timers and the young, this place is usually crowded and full of cigarette smoke. However, 10K Oaks has great DJs, good bar-food to accompany your drinks, and an old-world British pub ambiance. After your drinks, you could move outdoors for al-fresco dining, away from the smoke and loud music. They mostly play Rock from the 70s and 80s, but some House too on selected days.
Kiva: The original, smaller one is located in Ashok Nagar on Range Hills Road and is popular with the college crowd. The new, larger one is located in Lane 6, Koregaon Park. Large and tastefully decorated interiors, excellent ambiance, great music and a dance floor make this among the best places for an evening; Kiva gets enough people even on Monday evening, when most other lounges are either closed or deserted. Both the drinks and food menu have a large variety of options. Try some shots first: I recommend the Death Wish. The food here is excellent too; options include continental, oriental and Indian items that come plated. Ph: 2553-8339, 3052-0987
Update, Nov 2008: Check out the new Stone Water Grill. My reviewhere.
Blue Fire: The new entrant in town, Blue Fire is located in City Point, Dhole Patil Road (beside Bombay Brasserie restaurant). Blue Fire has contemporary chic interiors and a large projection screen which makes this a great choice during Cricket matches. They also have a choice of indoor and outdoor lounge seating. As for food, I can recommend the Tandoor Lobster and Chicken in Pepper Sauce. Among cocktails, try their signature Blue Fire cocktail, if you are looking for something strong. Update, Dec 2008: R.I.P. Now converted into La Dolce Vita's world cuisine restaurant.
11 East Street Cafe: Another new entrant that is current very popular but expensive. This cafe has creative interiors that try to replicate a London street including a double-decker bus at the entrance, street lamps, window displays, the works! There is even a hookah lounge upstairs. Appetizers include Cheese jalapeno balls with beer sauce, Banger and Mash, and English Ratatouille. You can try their Cardinal Punch or the many other interesting cocktails. For desserts, try their Bailey's Mousse or Green Apple Cheesecake. Ph: 2633-3711
Flags: With contemporary decor and some innovative cocktails, Flags is primarily known for its multi-cuisine food. It boasts of one of the longest menus and includes food from most regions of the world. However, I like this place for it's cocktails too ( I recommend the Caribbean Storm) especially so if you have come out of the INOX cineplex next door after watching a movie. Note that this place is a little expensive. Ph: 2614-1617
Mauve: Adil Poonawala's new, upscale Japanese resto-lounge-bar is located where Athena once was in Lane 5, Koregaon Park. Haven't tried this place yet, but it's making a buzz right now. Ph: 98927-10175. Update, June 2008 : Cramped interiors; only good during special weekends when the bold and the beautiful of Pune congregate!
Not Just Jazz by the Bay: This place has a lively ambiance especially during Karoke nights or weekends when musicians and stand-up comedians from outside Pune come in to entertain. Great cocktails, multi-cuisine food, and a wonderful ambiance make this a welcome choice for a couple of drinks during the evening. Not Just Jazz is located within the ESquare cineplex on University Road. Ph: 6604-4200
Hard Rock Cafe: Just opened where River View restaurant used to be. Ahead of ABC Farms on North Main Road. I expect to see better live bands, American starters, and an upscale ambiance when HRC finally opens (currently scheduled for April 18th). Update, June 2008: Expected to open in July now.
Zaha: At Viva Inn, NDA Road, Chandi Chowk, this is a popular haunt for the college crowd wanting to let their hair down during weekends and Wednesday evenings. Decorated in white, Zaha is popular for its thematic days such as Retro on Wed, Bollywood Nites, etc. Zaha is closed on Mondays. Another one by Tehseen Poonawala, whose nightspots keeping popping up and closing down every few months (he's the one who setup the once popular nightspots Lush, Area 51, and Palazzo). Ph: 2295-2839.
TC's: Located in Millenium Plaza, FC Road, this multi-cuisine resto-lounge has a chic, modern decor that is attractive and has an extensive cocktail and food menu to please most. You can even order flavored teas, gourmet coffee, creamy shakes, or flavored hookas. Try the Chimichangas here with your choice of drinks.
Vie Lounge: This lounge is located in Koregaon Park, close to Blue Diamond hotel, in the same road as Mocha. They began about six months back with a lot of fanfare with all the rich and beautiful people wanting to be seen here initially. The decor and crowd is upscale and perfect for a special night. However, please note that they are still trying to get into their groove in Pune. I understand they have recently slashed their prices, but the service and food is inconsistent, particulally galling as their prices are high.
SoHo: Curently in vogue with the younger crowd, Soho can get very crowded during weekends and on most other days too. Soho is located in Kalyani Nagar on the opposite side of the same road as Lifestyle. Soho has a cover charge during weekends and special nights. They have ample indoor and outdoor seating. The indoor turns into a crowded dance floor on weekends. There isn't much to write about their decor, but this is the place to be if you like an younger crowd and the food/drinks are very affordable. Ph: 2668-1987
Bar Asia: Located one level above the street opposite Pune Club and co-located with Nawab Indian restaurant. This bar is small, has lounge seating, and modest prices. With live music on some days, intresting (and very spicy!) oriental and Indian starters, Bar Asia is a good option if you are in the vicinity of Blue Nile and shopping at the mall nearby. Ph: 6520-2475
The Ship: Designed to resemble a dining room aboard a yatch, The Ship boasts of a well-stocked Sports Bar and plated multi-cuisine food. Frequented by visiting foreigners as well as Indians, this is another place to consider if you are in Kalyani Nagar. The Ship is located one level above street in the Fortelezza Shopping Complex opposite the AMC Gold Labs CinePlex. This place is too quiet for the younger clientele which is why the older ones prefer it!
ZK's: Owned by Indian cricketer Zaheer Khan, from where this resto-bar gets its name, ZK's has a seperate lounge area on the 2nd floor done up in modern chic. Lots of glass, vibrant colors and mood lighting make this the perfect choice if you are in the Kondhwa area of Pune. A variety of Indian and Continental food options accompany a decent drinks menu. Ph: 2683-2366
Indyaki: Recently reonvated, this restaurant-lounge plays House and Trance most often. The lounge is indoors, while the restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating options and serves pretty good Indian food. The owners also run the popular Koregoan Park restaurant, Arthur's Theme. The chief grouse I have is that children from the restaurant section aren't kept out of the lounge area.
Curve: Located in ABC Farms on North Main Road, Curve is located on two levels. Curve used to be popular some time back and still has a good atmosphere during weekends. With an eclectic selection of food that includes some great thin-crust pizza, Italian entrees and some mean cocktails, this is another place to choose from if you are in the Koregaon Park area. Ph:6400-0410
Shisha Cafe: Amidst green trees, Persian carpets, hookahs and live musicians, this one is a rather unique experience. However, the food is it's weak point. I haven't found anything on the menu that I have really liked, but Shisha makes up with its live music, deewans to sit on, and hookahs. Ph: 6520-0390
High Spirits: Live Retro on Wed nights, but you will many times find it closed for private parties. Affordable liquor which is why they are popular for a certain section of the younger crowd. Ambiance not great but food is ok. Stick to whiskeys, rum and vodka; their cocktails aren't the best.. Ph: 93710-06430
Update, June 2008: High Spirits is now called ONE. Initial reviews suggest it's worth checking out.
Update, Dec 2008: Correction, ONE is a different place altogether like reader 'trips' points out below. My brief review comments posted here.
July 2008 Update: Check out K FY, a lounge in intimate settings based in Koregaon Park which provides a Goan touch with its authentic food and Feni. Retro music on weekends. Located at 235-5 Popular Heights Road, Koregaon Park. Ph: 40024425.
Finally, there are the bars at the 5 star hotels which are good too, though frequently only by businessmen. Entresol Bar at the Meridien with its live band, 262 Lounge at the Sun and Sand that serves some great kababs, and Casabella, the Anglo-Saxon pool-side bar at the Taj Blue Diamond are great choices in this category.

As you can see, there are now (finally!) enough options in Pune to liven up your evenings. Cheers!

RESORTS IN PUNE

Ambrosia Resort (Resorts - Pune)
Contact: Miss Mahua Narayan
Survey No 38/2 Bawdhan Khurd, Tal Mulshi, Pune: 411021, Tel. No.22951023
Email:
Website:
Fariyas Holiday Resorts (Resorts - Pune)
Contact: Ms Eva D`souza
442,clover Centre, 7,moledina Road,, Pune: 411001 Tel. No.26138676
Email:
Website:
Manali The Resort (Resorts - Pune)
Contact: Suresh Kalbhar
Loni Kolbhor Pune Solapur, Highway,Tal-Haveli., Dist-Thane, Pune: 412307 Tel. No.26915602
Email:
Website:
Native Place (Resorts - Pune)
Contact: Astrid
LV 41/42, Golden Glades Kamshet, Pin Code: 410405, Ph: 022-26493110, Fax: -
Services: Homestay
Email: info@nativeplace.com
Website:www.nativeplace.com
Prems Restaurant (Resorts - Pune)
Contact: Arun Sharma
28/2 Koregaon Park,, North Main Road,, Pune: 411001 Tel. No.26130985
Email:
Website:
Priya Restaurant (Resorts - Pune)
Contact: Ratnakar Shetty
245,246 M.G.Road, Pune: 411001 Tel. No.26347259
Email:
Website:
Sujata Farms Pvt Ltd (Resorts - Pune)
Contact: Mr Vikas Kolte
Prabhat Road Lane No 8, Opposite To Hotel President, Pune: 411004, Tel. No.56205550
Email:
Website:

GANPATIPULE

"Sparkling blue waters, endless stretches of golden or silver sand, sun beams dancing through the swaying palms, waves playing with the sand dunes, a cool breeze whispering sweet nothing in your ear. This is the land of Ganpatipule, one of Maharashtra's almost virgin beaches."
Nestled in the greenery is an almost 4000 year old land mark - the Swayambhu Ganapati temple (Swayambhu means 'self-made', this is a temple of the self-originated idol, Ganapati). It is flooded by thousands of devotees and tourists every year. Thus the village got its name Ganapatipule, Ganapati the lord of the "ganas" or army and "pule" which means sand dunes, Ganapatipule is one of the "Ashta Ganapatis" (eight Ganapatis) of India and is known as "Paschim Dwar Dewata" (the Western Sentinel God).
Ganapatipule is a small village, serene, sedate and unspoiled. The beach here is still as natural and pristine as ever. And traveling by roads is an experience by itself. The vast "Konkan" stretch abounds with scenic greenery. There are narrow mud-roads, the earth is red and the roofed houses with clean courtyards add a quaint touch to the panorama. The local vegetation includes fruit bearing trees like mango, betelnut, banana, jackfruit, coconut, etc. The entire western coast is covered with these trees. The locals are as warm and cheerful as their surroundings. Ever ready to chat with the visitors and make them feel at home.
These god-fearing local devotees take a "Pradakshina" around the hill where the temple is located, not just around the temple (Pradakshina is a form of showing obeisance wherein the devotee walks in a circle around the idol of the lord or around the temple, the house of the lord), As for the tourists, they can go walking simple to enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
Places to Visit
Malgund
Just a kilometer away from Ganapatipule, Malgund village is the birthplace of the famous Marathi Poet Keshavsoot. This small, yet beautiful village is frequented by visitors who come to take a look at the renovated and converted house of the poet, now a student's hostel. The Maratji "Sahitya Parishad" (Marathi Literature Society) has constructed a beautiful monument salled "Keshavsoot Smarak" in the memory of the great son-of-the soil.
Pawas
Pawas is naturally beautiful and serene. The place is also prominent for the ashram of Swami Swaroopanand (a spiritual leader who influenced an entire generation of Maharashtrians). A visit to the place is a journey through time.
Jaigad Fort
The legendary fort stands high and proud on the cliff with a spectacular view of the sea. The fort is at the entrance of the Sangameshwar river and is 35 kms away from Ganapatipule.

Ratnagiri
The Konkan is the vast, beautiful western coast. One of its districts is the well-known Ratnagiri. It is here that the great freedom fighter Bal Gangadhar Tilak was born. This man with a mission led the "Swadeshi Movement" in the 20th centuary against the British. His house - Tilak Smarak - is a landmark now and is open to visitors. Also the "Patit Pawan Mandir" is of importance here. It was the first temple built for the non-Brahmins by revolutionary leader, Swatantryaveer Savarkar. Other Attractions are the Bhatye Beach, The Coconut Research Center, Ratnadurg Fort, Bhagwati Bunder (Sea Port) and The Seafood Processing Centre at Mirya. Also visit Thebaw Palace, which was built for the exiled King and Queen of Burma (now Myanmar) in 1910 - 11. They lived for five years till their death in 1916.
Velneshwar
This small and dreamy village around 170 kms away from Ratnagiri is the place to be for water sports - thanks to its beautiful clean beach and rock - free sea. Also an old Shiva temple near Velneshwar if Frequented by pilgrims and tourists. The whole place is a mystic aura around in the presence of the master mystic, Lord Shiva.

Excursions
Marleshwar
60 kms from Ganapatipule, famous for its Shiva temple and waterfall.
Derwen
85 kms from Ganapatipule, it is well known for its Shiv Shristi (an exhibition on Chhatrapati Shivaji)
Parshuram
Known for the Parshuram temple, it is 112 kms away from Ganapatipule.
Important Information
Geographic Location
Ganapatipule lies along the Konkan coast, approximately 375 kms south of Mumbai.
Climate
The coastal climate is mostly hot and humid but it is healthy and devoid of pollution. The temperature is at its peak (around 38 Degree C) in the month of March. The monsoon falls between June and October. The rains are regular here. The climate is pleasant in winter and the temperature often falls at night.
Languages Spoken
Marathi is the common language here. People also know Hindi and English.
Local Festivals
All the festivals are celebrated with great enthusiasm and a spirit of togetherness. Gauri Ganapati and Magh Chaturthi are the most important events in the entire Konkan region. Holi, Gudi Padva and Diwali are well celebrated here, too.
What to wear
Loose cotton attire is suitable and comfortable. Although during winters, warm clothing is preferable. Swimming costumes are recommended for people indulging in water - sports.
What to eat
Since Ganapatipule is a pilgrimage destination, non - vegetarian food is a little rare. But on the outskirts of Ganapatipule fish curry, rice and kokam kadhi are available. Vegetable curries are also very tasty, prepared with a coconut base. "Modak" the favorite sweet meat of Lord Ganesh is also available.
What to Buy
The Konkan coast is rich in horticulture and the place is filled with delicious exotic fruits. These are also turned into sweet preparations like Ambapoli and Phanaspoli (pancakes of dried mango and jackfruit respectively). If you visit during the mangi season, don't forget to buy the world famous Devgad "Hampus" mangoes.
Where to Stay
The MTDC resort lies on the slope of a green hillock, facing the sea. Alphonso mango trees and coconut palms dot the 45 acre grounds. Sea view cottages. tents and Konkani houses are also available (The latter two are not rented out during the monsoons).
How to get there
By Air
Nearest airport is Belgaum, 299 Kms.
By Rail
On Konkan Railway Bhoke is 35 Kms. However the convenient railhead Ratnagiri is 45 Kms.
By Road
Mumbai - Ganapatipule is 375 Kms.
Pune - Ganapatipule is 331 Kms.
Belgaum - Ganapatipule is 299 Kms.
S. T. Buses ply from Mumbai and Ratnagiri to Ganapatipule.

North Goa Mayem Lake, a cool lake placed on hill top is the most frequented picnic spot.Vagator Beach, A beach famous for its seclusion with the Chapora Fort as its imposing backdrop. Anjuna Beach, A popular haunt of hippies.Calangute Beach, Widely Known as the Queen of Goa's Beaches. Here school holidays & beat shows draw hundreds of people.Aguada Fort, A famous 17th century Fort now made even more famous by 5 star hotel complex. Temples, Their are temples of Lord Vital, Lord Vandevata, Lord Ravalnath & Goddess Laxmi to be seen.Narayan Mapusa, Capital of Bardez famous for its Friday Bazar where people converge to buy & sell everything from lime to Live stick.	Colva Beach Se Cathedral Shree Shanta Durga Temple Dona Paula

South Goa Miramar, A short but sweet beach. Here lies the samadhi of Goa's First Chief Minister late Dayanand Bandodkar. Old Goa Churches (1) Bom Jesus, In Bom Jesus Basilica lies the incorruptible remains of St. Francis Xavier.(2) Se Cathedral, The largest of its Kind in the East. Temples (1) Mangueshi, Dedicated to Lord Shiva, built in 16th Century.(2) Shantadurga, Is one of the richest temples dedicated to Shantadurga, the Goddess of peace. Famous for its Golden Palanquin. Ancestral Goa, A century old Miniature Village. India's Longest. Margao, Commercial city of South Goa.Colva Beach, Longest beach in Goa, only rival to Calangute in Popularity.

Getting Started:
The former Portuguese City has always been ranked high in travellers dictionary for quite some time now. Goa has always been the hotspot for tourists all over the world. In spite of the fact that the Portuguese left the city four decades ago, the Roman Catholicism remains a major religion in Goa. The Goa landscape consists of old Portuguese churches, paddy fields, dense coconut tree plantation and huge forts. The people earn their livelihood through farming, fishing, tourism and mining .

Beaches:
Goa being surrounded by Arabian sea is famous for its beaches. People from the west have been flocking to this place since early 1960s.Indians from various parts of the country also come here. Selection of beach may vary according to your stay and how much action you want to see. Calangute, Baga, Candolim and Colva are mostly occupied by the package tourism, so they can be very happening . Anjuna the traditional rave center is still popular, while Vagator and Chapora are not that happening. Arambol in the north and Palolem in the south are the beaches if you are quiet, simple person. Nudism on beaches is illegal though Goa may appear to be very welcoming, friendly and liberal.

Special Events :
Mostly occupied by Christian community the feast and festivals here have a strong Christian influence. Therefore Christmas and New Year are worth watching . Events such as arrival of monsoon give opportunity for Goans to celebrate feast days. The Feast of St Anthony in June has got its own significance. It is said that if the monsoon god does not favour the Goans by the time of this feast day, a statue of the saint is to be dipped in the family well to wake the monsoon god . If the monsoon arrives the St John feast is a thanking one to the almighty.

Accommodation & Food :
Accommodation depends in which season you land up here. High season is normally from December to January. Rates are very high during the last week of December on the eve of Christmas & New Year. Specially if you trying to get in Titoos, one of the most happening pub in Goa on New Year the entry for couples is Rs 2000. If you are in Goa for the other part of the year the rates are almost half. The Goa Tourism distributes nice booklet listing the main hotels and guesthouses. Food here is cheap and delicious too. Sorpotel is pig's liver dish. Xacuti is a chicken or meat dish. Bangra is Goan mackerel. Christmas sweets are Dodol and Bebinca. Liquor shops are available almost every next door. Alcohol here is cheap than anywhere in India. Feni made from coconut is the favorite drink of the Goans.

Traveling :
There are number of government and private buses which run throughout Goa and the tickets are cheap. Bus services are regular so there is no need to wait for too long before you get into one. You can also hire a car though it is expensive but comfortable. Though most of the tourist prefer hiring a motorcycle in Goa as it is easy and cheap. It takes a minimum of Rs 400 to hire a motorcycle for a day. The most fascinating about traveling in Goa are the ferries. A ten minute ferry ride for Rs 75 is really worth spending. The ferry is lit with lights in the night and the music is on which makes it look really beautiful .

Panaji & Old Goa:
Panaji is one of the smallest state capitals of India. It overtook Old Goa as capital in 1843.Situated on the bank of Mandovi river is a place worth a visit. Most of the market is here. The market is closed after 7'o clock in the evening so better check yourself in the afternoon or early morning. St Francis Xavier's church is one thing you don't want to miss on your tour to Goa. One just can't describe how beautiful it is. You may travel through Panjim on your way to most of the beaches. Old Goa is situated 9 km east of Panjim which was once the capital of Portuguese. Mostly occupied by old buildings there are few museums to look for. Once upon a time it had large palace of Adil Shah of Bijapur which is no more now.

ALIBAG NEAR PUNE

Beautiful Sea, a Fort that gets surrounded by sea water, a few temples and a lot of fun. Alibag is the ideal place for a one day return trip. Alibaug is 145 kms away from Pune. There are a few beaches to visit in this place.

There are Uma Maheshwar and Balaji temples. The Kulaba fort lies 2 kms inside the sea. Kulaba fort gets surrounded by sea water at the time of tide. You can walk to the fort only at the time of the fall. So be aware of the tide timings before going to the fort.
It is safe to go in the fort before or after 1 hours of fall. But one should always keep in mind that he should come back within 1 hour after the full fall. If you get stuck inside the fort you cannot come back for at least for 5 hours.

BEACHES NEAR PUNE

ALIBAG
GOA
GANPATI PULE

BHAJA CAVE

40 kms away from Pune, on the Pune-Mumbai highway are Karla and Bhaja Caves. Karla caves are 4 kms North towards from Malavli station. These caves are about 2000 years old. There is a Ekveera Devi temple on the hill. Ideal picnic spot for a one day return trip.

Bhaja caves are 2 kms south from Malavali station.
These are basically Buddhist caves with fine Sculpture. Chaityagriha can be seen in Karla. The goddess is known as Amba Mata. A certain amount is charged to enter the temple. There are total 16 caves in Bhaje.
Railways and S.T. buses are available which take you to these caves.

BHEDSA CAVE

70 kms away from Pune Bedsa caves are one of the most old in Maharashtra. These are 15 kms to the South of Kamshet railway station. The Trio kept incomplete by Karla and Bhaja is completed by Bedsa. There is a village named Bedsa near the caves. These are at the south of Raut wadi. Though a very good place to visit is not very often crowded. The beauty of these caves is best viewed in the mornings.

These caves are 1000 years old. There is a strange story told by villagers about these caves that - The details about the caves and the entire history of the caves was painted and carved on the walls of the cave. But it so happened that a Senior British Officer was to visit the caves, hence a local officer painted the entire caves and the details were lost behind the paint. The truth of this story is not yet known but still it is an interesting story to listen.

KARLA CAVE

Bhaja caves are 2 kms south from Malavali station.

These are basically Buddhist caves with fine Sculpture. Chaityagriha can be seen in Karla. The goddess is known as Amba Mata. A certain amount is charged to enter the temple. There are total 16 caves in Bhaje.

Railways and S.T. buses are available which take you to these caves.

CAVES NEAR PUNE

LOHAGAD AND VISAPUR

Ideal for trekking these forts are just a km away from each other. Lohagad & Visapur Forts are 52 kms from Pune. Lohagad is at a height of 3450 feets and Visapur is at the height of 3550 feet.

This place is of historical importance. When Shivaji raided Surat all the wealth was brought to this fort under the supervision of Netaji Palkar. Shivaji used to keep a watch on Konkan and Bhor Ghat from these forts.
There is village nearby to Lohagad from where are four doors to the fort they are 'Narayan Darwaja', 'Maha Darwaja', Ganesh Darwaja' and 'Hanuman Darwaja'. There are some ancient sculptures on the Maha Darwaja. Pawana dam can be viewed from this place.

Purandar, Sinhagad, Tung and Tikona can be viewed from Visapur. There is a 12 feet long Mortar on the fort.

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