Friday, May 29, 2009

Kanva reservoir, Karnataka


Kanva reservoir is an artificial lake and tourist attraction 69 kilometres from Bangalore and 10 kilometres from Ramnagara(known for its silk). The reservoir has been formed from the damming of the river Kanva and is well known as a tourist destination for its birdlife. For getting to KR, Bangalore is the connecting point. Bangalore- Mysore highway is the connecting strip. One can find agricultural fields and small muddy hunts near the reservoir. Coconuts and mango trees are in ample. Government run research and training center near this reservoir.
This spot is loved by silient seekers and love birds. It is a good picnic spot for family but it would be best if visitors plan it in the winter.
Kanva Dam is a minor irrigation project dam. Built in 1946 across the Kanva river, it is 15 km long covering 776 hectares. The Kanva river (a tributary of the Cauvery river) is named after the sage Kanva, who is believed to have lived in the caves in the mountains and forests around the dam in the time of Ramayana. Ramnagara and places around Kanva reservoir are in lime light due to its connection with Ramayana. Ramnagara which is merely 10 kilometers from reservior is claimed to be the place were Ram and Sita were use to reside during Vanvasa( life in the forest) period of 14 years.
This wide spread lake is worth to visit. In winter, warm sun rays and cool wind blowing both at the same time make this place lively.

Coconut and mangoes plantation along the road side add value to the scenic beauty of this place.


Reservoir is situated nearly 4 kilometers from the main Bangalore- Mysore Highway road. One has to take a right turn from the highway. Landmark board is placed at the main road, painted in yellow color.

Monday, May 11, 2009

St. Philomena Church, Mysore


This church is made in a Gothic Architectural style. His Highness the Maharaja of Mysore laid the foundation of this church in the year 1933 and it took 8 years to reach the stage og completion(1933-41).
This church is 165 ft tall as the twin spires are of 165 ft in height. The three bells in the towers resound before every service inviting people for worship.
The main three doors and the side doors are the entrances to the church.
Now management also run a secondary school in the campus of the church.
Timings of Holy Mass:
Weekdays: 5:30, 6:15, 7:00, 16:00
Sunday: 5:00, 6:00, 7:00, 8:00, 9:00, 16:00




Friday, March 27, 2009

Vishwa Shanthi Ashram, Bangalore



Address: Vishwa Shanthi Ashram, Arasinakunte, Nelamangala Taluk, Bangalore- 562123

Wednesday, March 25, 2009

Maru Village, Karnataka


Maru Village Primary School for children

A road towards jungle

Side view of Maru village.

Monday, March 23, 2009

Lal Bagh Botanical Garden, Bangalore

Lalbagh Botanical Garden is considered to be one of the most diverse botanical garden in South Asia. Lalbagh Botanical Garden is located in the southern part of the city, about 4 km from Vidhana Soudha and M.G. Road (GEO 12.97°N 77.56°E). Lalbagh has four approach gates. The main gate is at the North facing towards Subbaiah circle, the West gate is towards Basavanagudi, the South gate is towards Jayanagar and the East gate is towards the Double Road.
Lal Bagh was initiated by Hyder Ali, one of the most famous ruler of Mysore in 1760 and was further devloped by his son Tipu Sultan. Further it was extended to the great heights by British Bureaucrats.
Lalbagh is currently under the aegis of the Directorate of Horticulture, Government of Karnataka. The Directorate is housed amidst the splendid environs of the botanical garden. Lalbagh was given the status of a Government Botanical Garden in 1856, and since then, it has been an internationally renowned centre for scientific study of plants and botanical artwork and also conservation of plants.

A Gelogical Monument for the Peninsular Gneiss formation is also a tourist attraction at the gardens. This monument has been erected by the Geological Survey of India on the Lal Bagh hill which is made up of 3000 million year old Peninsular Gneissic rocks. One of the four cardinal towers erected by Kemepgowda II, also a major tourist attraction, is seen above this hillock.


Lal Bagh 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.

Flower shows are conducted every year to educate people about the variety of flora and develop public interest in plant conservation and cultivation.

The Government of Karnataka organizes "Janapada Jaatre" in Lal Bagh on the second and fourth weekends (both Saturday and Sunday) of every month. Janapada Jaatre, which translates to Folk Fare, features Folk Dance, Music and Plays performed by troupes from all parts of Karnataka. The show mainly depicts the cultural folklore of Karnataka, the traditional costumes and musical instruments.