100 Beautiful Places in India (Part-4)

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100 Beautiful Places in India (Part-4)

Goa

31. Dudhsagar Falls

If you thought Goa is all about sand, beaches and crazy nightlife, think again. There is more to Goa than meets the eye[Here are 10 such things]. For those who would like to see the other side of Goa, head to Dudhsagar Falls. The waterfalls are actually tiered falls about 60 km from the capital city of Panaji.

According to popular legend, a princess once lived in the forests nearby the falls. She used to bathe in the pond at the base of the falls. One fine day, during her bathing session, she caught a prince watching her. In order to protect her modesty, she poured a jug of sweet milk in front of her to form as a curtain.

It is believed that it is that sweet milk which pours down the falls, hence giving them a milky appearance. While you can believe that story at your peril, the fact remains that it is a gorgeous waterfall which deserves a visit.

[Also check out 10 amazing things to do in Goa]

Maharashtra

32. Matheran

Image Source: Omkar A Kamale – Flickr

The smallest hill station of India, but nevertheless beautiful, is Matheran in Maharashtra. Located in the Western Ghats at an altitude of about 2600 feet above sea level, it is about 90 km from the city of Mumbai. Vehicles are banned in this hill station, and the only way to reach it is via a short train journey.

Image Source: Harsha S – Flickr

The absence of vehicles means you are greeted with really fresh mountain air which replenishes your soul. Trek to Panorama Point here and you are greeted with gorgeous, 360 degree views of the surrounding scenery.

[Check out 15 beautiful places for a weekend trip from Mumbai]

33. Malshej Ghat

Image Source: Amit Rawat – Flickr

Nestled in the majestic peaks of the Western Ghats is the Malshej Ghat, a popular weekend place for people of Mumbai. It is a place blessed with refreshing greenery and mist covered peaks, especially during the months of August and September. There are some gorgeous waterfalls too to visit here.

Image Source: Himanshu Sarpotdar – Flickr

The place also serves as a habitat for several varieties of birds such as crakes and flamingos, making it a haven for birdwatchers. When here, try the Naneghat Trek for some scintillating views of the valley.

Also check out best resorts in Pune to relax and rejuvenate.

Tamil Nadu

34.Tea Estate of Coonoor

Image Source: Balaji.B – Flickr

A gorgeous hill station in Tamil Nadu is that of Coonoor. It is one of the largest hill stations in the Nilgiris, and also serves as a base for those interested in trekking in the Nilgiri Hills.

Image Source: ZeePack – Flickr

However, for those not interested in trekking, the highlight of the hill station is its many tea estate. When here, stay in a tea estate and you will have some really delightful experiences. Most of the tea estates here belong to the British times, which give you a taste of the colonial past. The period furniture, the greenery and the tranquility all make for a wonderful holiday experience.

[Check Out Some Of The Best Places To Visit In Chennai]

35. Hogenakkal Falls

Image Source: Praveen – Flickr

Gorgeous falls located on River Kaveri in Tamil Nadu are the Hogenakkal Falls. The waterfalls are sometimes called the “Niagara Falls of India”, because the sheer volume and beauty. About 180 km away from the city of Bangalore, the falls are a popular weekend getaway for people who are looking for an opportunity to trek.

During the dry season, you can take a boat ride as the falls are not too strong to cause any danger. However, if you want to see the fall in all their glory, pay a visit around the monsoon season. They are a sight to behold.

Also check out 10 beautiful resorts and places to stay in Chennai

Karnataka

36. Chikmagalur

Image Source: Motographer – Flickr

A beautiful hill station located at the base of Mulayanagiri Range in Karnataka is Chikmagalur. The hill station is sometimes referred to as “coffee land of Karnataka” because of its several coffee plantations. Located close to the city of Bangalore, it is a popular weekend getaway for the people of India’s Silicon Valley. The highlight of Chikmagalur is the Mahatma Gandhi Park, previously known as Ratnagiri Bore. It is known for its scenic vistas.

[Which is the famous wildlife sanctuary located in Karnataka?]

Image Source: Motographer – Flickr

37. Kudremukh Shola Grasslands

Source: RahulR – Flickr

A famous peak of Chikmagalur district of Karnataka is the Kudremukh peak. The name literally translates to “Horse Face” and refers to a particular section of the peak which looks like the face of a horse. The peak and the surrounding region are known for its shoal grasslands, which are a sight unto themselves.

Image Source: netlancer2006 – Flickr

The dense shoal grasslands are home to plenty of wildlife, with animals such as Malabar civet, sloth bear and spotted bear regularly being seen here.

38. Nandi Hills

Image Source: Ritesh Niranjan – Flickr

A small hill station about 60 km from Bangalore is Nandi Hills. Compared to other famous hill stations of Karnataka, Nandi Hills is a little less frequented, which adds to the charm of the place. It is known for its trekking opportunities and houses the ruins of a fort atop a hill.

[Apart from Nandi Hills there are so many beautiful places near Bangalore]

Image Source:  Nagaraju Hanchanahal – Flickr

You could take plantation walks in the verdant greenery or even go paragliding here. However, the best way to experience Nandi Hills is to just sit back, relax, and watch time go by. If you are looking for rejuvenation, Nandi Hills is the ideal place to be in.

Also check out some of the famous trekking places near Bangalore

39. Jog Falls

Image Source: Clinton Jeff – Flickr

One of the highest waterfalls of India are the Jog Falls in Karnataka. The falls constitute four separate waterfalls, viz. Raja Fall, the Roarer, the Rocket, and Rani Fall. It is an amazing experience just to stand there and look at water coming down at full force from a height. The surrounding greenery makes the falls one of the most beautiful in India.

[Don't miss our post on 101 of the Best Adventure Activities to do in India.]

Image Source: Krishna Kumar – Flickr

The best time to visit the falls is somewhere around the monsoon period. Do not make the mistake if visiting the falls during the summer months. All you will be greeted with is a small stream of river falling down a cliff.

Andhra Pradesh

40. Araku Valley

Image Source: Raj

A pristine tourist spot in Eastern Ghats in Andhra Pradesh is Araku Valley. Located at a height of about 3000 feet above sea level, the valley is known for Sunkarimetta Forest Reserve and Anantagiri, both of which are biodiversity hot spots.

It is also known for its coffee plantations, which together with the biodiversity hot spots, give the valley a beautiful green cover. While in the valley, do not miss a chance to interact with the local tribes, which gives you an insight into their eclectic culture. Relatively untouched by commercialization, the valley makes for a relaxing vacation in the hills.

Also check out 15 best resorts in Hyderabad