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Showing posts with label Dehradun. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Dehradun. Show all posts

Monday, August 3, 2015

Bhatta Falls Mussoorie, India

Do you want to know about Mussorie, Uttarakhand Tourism?
Is Bhatta Waterfall in Dehradun or Mussoorie?
What are my reviews of Bhatta Falls, Mussorie, Uttarakhand, India?
Why Should You Travel to Bhatta Falls?
What are Things to Do at Bhatta Falls, Mussoorie, Uttarakhand?
How to Reach Bhatta Falls?


Are all these questions on your mind? If yes, then this post is definitely for you. I have discussed about the opulent Bhatta Falls which is not much crowded and is liked for its clear and freezing water, even in summers.

About Bhatta Falls, Mussoorie, India

I often wondered whats so special about Kempty Falls, that the other Mussoorie waterfalls likes Bhatta Falls, Jharipani Falls are not so talked about. Well, I decided to find out on my own by visiting the Bhatta Falls, Mussoorie, India, nearby the Dehradun city in Uttrakhand. Bhatta Falls is a popular waterfall cum picnic spot near Mussoorie, swiftly taking over the much-hyped Kempty Falls. Untouched by commercialization till date, it is located at around 7 kilometers from the main Mussoorie city. Its a natural stream of water - an image somewhat similar to that of Kempty Falls, flowing down the hills. What makes bhatta waterfall a better tourist attraction is the very good flow of stream and splashing of water driblets along with the wind onto your face.

Is Bhatta Waterfall in Dehradun or Mussoorie?


Some websites have listed Bhatta Falls under Dehradun Tourism, which is completely wrong. The actual location of this waterfall is in Mussoorie, Uttarakhand which neighbors Dehradun. Its about 45 minutes drive from Dehradun to Mussoorie.


Bhatta Falls near Dehradun, in Mussoorie, India
Bhatta Falls Near Dehradun, in Mussoorie, India



What are my reviews of Bhatta Falls, Mussorie, Uttarakhand, India?

I traveled to the fall during October 2014 along with my family. The waterfall is one the best ones in India, I have ever enjoyed during my journey. I will definitely quote that this place will tempt you and captivate you with its roaring sound of the falling water. It beauty is added with the glorious view of the mountains.

Traveling is like a book and Bhatta Falls is like the most read page in it. These are the words which I choose to describe my experience of visiting this popular tourist spot.

You can read TripAdvisor review here

Why Should You Travel to Bhatta Falls?
Or
What are Things to Do at Bhatta Falls, Mussoorie, Uttarakhand
  • Enjoy the water splashing your face along with the wind.
  • Take a bath in the pond.
  • Have a good picnic.
  • Make the best of your visit by spending adequate time.
How to Reach Bhatta Falls

Through Cab / Car: Once you are in the main Mussoorie City, you can reach Bhatta Falls by a 7 km drive on the Mussoorie-Bhatta Road, near Bhatta Village. On reaching Bhatta, its a 3 Km easy walk to the waterfall.

If you have your own cab, then its fine.
Else, you can hire a taxi or cab from the Government Tourist Center, adjoining the main Mussoorie Bus Stand.

Also, the place is easily approachable through auto rickshaw and local bus service.

How to Reach the Mussoorie City 
Indian Railways: To reach the main Mussoorie City, you need to get down at Dehradun Railway Station and then take some commutation to the destination.
Airport: You can reach the city from Jolly Grant Airport as well.

Bhatta Falls - Waterfall near Mussoorie City


Situated nearby the township of Mussoorie, Bhatta Falls is soon becoming a major tourist picnic spot. Picturesque locations are present in plenty around this waterfall, allowing visitors to catch the memories in the camera and take home a basket full of natural scent in the form of images, photos and videos. On my visit to this tourist spot, I found algae on the rocks close to it, but there was refreshing water in the pond nearby. Rest assure, the algae will not hamper your enthusiasm and enjoyment quotient a bit. I even enjoyed bathing in the pond.

Recommendation : Before you travel to the Bhatta Falls, make sure pack yourself a good lunch. I say this because there is just one small eatery in its premises. Also, you should carry a separate pair of clothes, if bathing in the waterfall is on your mind.
Bhatta Falls, Mussoorie (Not in Dehradun)
Bhatta Falls, Mussoorie (Not in Dehradun)

Bhatta Waterfall - A Pristine Scenic and Picnic Spot


Were you looking for the best pristine and spectacular picnic spots in Mussorie, near Dehradun? If yes, the Bhatta Falls is your answer. The waterfall is simply gorgeous and view of this cascading waterfall make it a delightful view. It is a must visit tourist destination is your traveling to Mussorie. Here, you will definitely love the nature at its best.

Check out few highlights of the waterfall below:

Good for
Nature Lovers, Fun Lovers, Photo Fanatics
Suitable for
Honeymoon Couples, Family, Friends
Entry Fees
None
Days Open
All days of the week
Timing
9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (0900 Hrs to 1800 Hrs)
Public Holidays
None, Open on all days
Ideal Visit Duration
1 to 2 Hours
Best Months to Visit
March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November
Months Which Can be Avoided
January, February, December

Tourist Spots Near Bhatta Falls, Mussoorie, India

For your convenience, I have mentioned some of tourist spots that are nearby the beautiful Bhatta waterfall. The distances mentioned below are according to Google Maps.


S. No.
Name of Tourist Spot
Distance from Bhatta Falls
Distance from Mussoorie City
1
Gun Hill
8 to 9.5 km (15 - 20 minutes drive)
19 minutes drive or 7 minutes walk
2
Kempty Falls
22 km (about 30 minutes drive)
16 km (20 minutes drive)
3
Lake Mist
--
--
4
Municipal Garden / Company Garden
--
--
5
Mussoorie Lake
4 km (12 minutes drive)
4 to 5 km (8 minute drive)
6
Jharipani Falls
7 to 9 km (16 to 22 minutes drive)
6 to 7 km (11 to 15 minutes drive)
7
Mossy Fall
7 to 10 km (19 to 22 minutes drive)
4 to 5 km (8 to 15 minutes drive)
8
Nag Devta Temple
--
--
9
Camel’s Back Road
10 km (21 minutes drive)
Walking distance of 4 minutes (maximum)
10
Lal Tibba
10 to 14 km (25 to 35 minutes drive)
4.5 km (10 minutes drive)
11
Cloud's End
13 to 16 km (30 to 40 minutes drive)
6.5 km (19 minutes drive)
12
Jwala Devi Temple
---
---
13
Mussoorie Heritage Centre
7 km (20 minutes drive)
2 to 4 km (5 to 6 minutes drive)


Tourist Spots Near Mussoorie, India : Dehradun, Dhanaulti

Never leave any scope of disappointment in your heart, when you travel. Specially if you are touring a place like Mussoorie, then make sure to explore fully and enjoy in the best possible manner. To gain the maximum from touring Mussoorie, I recommend to visit the nearby tourist spots as well viz Dehradun and Dhanaulti, all are located in Uttarakhand in India. By exploring these tourist spots near Mussoorie, India, you are sure to take a journey into yourself and appreciate the wilderness of this world. Remember that travel in one true, honest friend, which will stay with you for a lifetime.

Best places to see in Dehradun, Uttarakhand: Robbers Cave, Tapkeshwar Temple


A Quick Snapshot of Places Nearby Bhatta Falls, Mussoorie



  • For Shopping: The Mall, Library Bazaar, Classic Emporium, Kulri Bazaar, Landour Bazaar
  • For Eating: Casa Mia Bakery, Chotiwala, Four Seasons, Maacozy, Momos
  • Accommodation in Hotels: Hotel Rokeby, Padmini Niwas, Rokeby Manor, The Amber Vermont Estate, The Claridges Nabha Residence

Checkout more hotels near bhatta falls, mussoorie at travelguru

The Beautification of Bhatta Falls, Mussoorie, Uttrakhand, India

According to the Dehradun online edition of the newspaper The Tribune, the residents of Mussoorie are awaiting for the beautification of Bhatta Falls for a long time. This ideal bathing and picnic spot is proposed to get upgrading facilities for making it at par with the popular Kempty Falls. It also states that delay in the beautification project is causing revenue loss to the Dehradun district administration.

The embellishment drive was carried out in 2004 by the Mussoorie-Dehradun Development Authority (MDDA) at an expense of about Rs 60 to Rs 70 lakh. Afterward, the MDDA handed over Bhatta Falls to the Mussoorie Hotel Association (MHA) for four years. In the year 2010, MHA refused to maintain this tourist spot. The reason cited for this denial of responsibility was the newly started sewage project which damaged the road leading to Bhatta Waterfall considerably, resulting in driving the tourist away. Since then this pristine scenic and picnic spot is left to its fate.

After some time, the government took the beautification drive of the Bhatta Falls, Mussoorie in its own hand by sending a proposal to the Central Government for upgrading the facilities at the waterfall. It is still awaiting approval.

  • Conclusion of Bhatta Falls
The sublime beauty of Bhatta Falls can probably outperform that of the Kempty Falls, making it more popular tourist destination in Mussorie, Uttarakhand, India. This will directly churn out extra revenues for the district administration as well.

I strongly recommend to travel to this Mussorie tourist place as I consider it as the most gratifying form of introspection. Just let go all your envies, fears, selfishness, and jealousies when you travel to bhatta falls. You will definitely start a new affair with travel.

Go to Google+ Page of Bhatta Fall, by clicking here

Author Information : Click Here
Google+ URL

Friday, July 24, 2015

Tapkeshwar Mahadev Temple, Dehradun

I have been to Tapkeshwar Mahadev Temple, Dehradun, Uttarakhand twice till date, once in November 2013 and secondly in October 2014 (with family). I will just say this – the placidity, serene charm and spiritual experience of this holy place will simply bless your soul. I will recommend all my readers to visit this Shiv Temple at least once and take the blessings of The Great Lord Mahadev. In this blog post, I have discussed my experience of visiting the Tapkeshwar Mahadev Temple and cited the important information related to the timing, history, distance, reviews, guide of the mandir.

Quick Facts of Tapkeshwar Temple

Before acquainting yourself about the history of tapkeshwar temple in Dehradun, enlighten yourself about its important facts.

Name of Temple : Tapkeshwar Temple, Tapkeshwar Mahadev Temple
Tapkeshwar Temple Address / Location: Garhi Cantt., Dehradun, Uttarakhand, 248001, India
Primary Deity : The Great Lord Mahadev also known as Shiva Shankara
Type : Temple in Natural Cave
Exclusivity : Continuous trickle of water from ceiling over the Shiva Linga
Location : 6.5 km from Dehradun City 


Tapkeshwar Mahadev Temple, Dehradun
Tapkeshwar Mahadev Temple, Dehradun

Other Important Information


  • Tapkeshwar Temple Dehradun Timings : All days of the week - 5:00 AM - 7:00 PM
  • Visit Duration : 30 minutes to 1 hour
  • Entry Fees : None
  • Popularity Factor : Natural Shiv Linga located inside The Cave / Gufa
  • No. of Shivlinga : 2 (Two). Both are Natural i.e., NOT man-made
  • Other Mandirs and Cave in Vicinity of the Temple : Mata Vaishno Devi Gufa Mandir, Shree Hanumanji Idol
  • Tapkeshwar Mandir Premises : Natural cave, Mata Vaishnodevi Gufa, Idols of various deities, Shree Hanuman Ji Sculpture


Tapkeshwar Mahadev Temple, Dehradun
Tapkeshwar Mahadev Temple, Dehradun

History of Tapkeshwar Temple Dehradun


The Tapkeshwar Temple History dates back to the era of Mahabharata; a fact which was unknown to me initially. The view, serenity and spiritual experience of the Mandir was such that I paid the holy destination a second visit as well.

The Temple is situated on the bank of seasonal Asan river / Tons River, which proliferates its overall beauty and tranquility. The Shiva Linga of this temple is one of the oldest ones and in the cave, which was once lodged by Dronacharya – the teacher of Kauravs and Pandavas in the Mahabharata (holy epic of Hinduism and written by Ved Vyas). Hence, this cave located in this temple is named “Drona Cave”.

The water dribbles from the cave's ceiling (rock) on the Shiva Linga, hence the temple is named as Tapkeshwar.



History of Tapkeshwar Temple Dehradun
History of Tapkeshwar Temple Dehradun


Tapkeshwar Temple History – Legend of Dronacharya and Ashwathama


It is believed that the present Tapkeshwar cave was inhabited by Guru Dronacharya -one of the great archers of the historic era of Mahabharata. Here, his wife Kalyani gave birth to their son Ashwathama, but was unable to feed him with her milk. In addition, Dronacharya had a shoestring budget and could not afford a cow or cow milk.

Ashwathama was born clever and so he understood the situation. He started praying to the great Lord Shiva for milk. Satisfied with his devotion and praying, the great lord fed him with milk, dripping above the Shiv Linga from the mountain rocks (ceiling). Hence, the hunger and wish of the immortal Ashwathama was fulfilled.

In the present Kal Yug, water trickles on the Lingam of the Lord Shiva, instead of milk. The scene is simply captivating.

The word Tapak means “to drip”; hence the meaning of Tapkeshwar is “that drips”.


Visitor Information | How To Reach Tapkeshwar Mahadev Temple

One of the oldest Lord Shiva Mandir - Tapkeshwar Mahadev Temple is situated in the Garhi Cantt region of Dehradun.

  1. This spiritual destination is about 30-31 km from the Jolly Grant Airport Dehradun, and 7.5 km from Dehradun Railway Station.
  2. You can reach the temple from Dehradun ISBT also, which is at the distance of about 10Km.
  3. You can hire Taxi, Three Wheeler or take a Local Bus to make it to the tapkeshwar temple dehradun.
VaishoDevi Gufa at Tapkeshwar Mahadev Temple, Dehradun
VaishoDevi Gufa at Tapkeshwar Mahadev Temple, Dehradun

Tapkeshwar Mahadev Temple is a Nostalgic Place in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India

The temple is situated by the forest side and and is surrounded by hills. It has a cave in which the natural Shiv Linga is placed. Surrounded by beautiful hills, the cave or gufa is called Drona Cave, as Guru Dronacharya resided in it. On my first visit, I felt inner calmness and tranquility, which is quintessential in everyone's life. The spectacular view of water naturally dribbling above the Shiv Linga was simply captivating. I couldn't imagine the time, when the milk used to trickle from the rocks. All the devotees, their honest devotion to God, magical view, the chanting of mantras... Oh! That time must have been spellbinding!

Tapkeshwar Festival/Fair : On Shivratri, you can witness a huge festival in and around the Tapkeshwar Mahadev Temple in Dehradun. Devotees, in large numbers, participate in this festival and pay their salutation to the deity every year. If you ever get a chance to be a part of this festival, then consider yourself blessed. During this time, you can also spot many picnickers from the city and nearby districts.

Other Information Related to the Mahadev Mandir

Nearby Places to See Santala Devi Temple, Ram Rai Gurudwara, Robbers Cave / Guchhupani
Nearby Places to Shop Paltan Bazaar, Tibetan Market, Himalayan Weavers
Nearby Hotels to Stay Aketa Hotel, Hotel Natraj, Hotel Great Value, etc.
Nearest Airport Jolly Grant Airport
Nearest Railway Station Dehradun Train Station
Second Nearest Railway Station Haridwar Junction Train Station



MY REVIEW OF TAPKESHWAR MAHADEV TEMPLE DEHRADUN

I believe that to worship our creator, we should admire and appreciate all the natural things - be it the beauty of the moon, wondrous sunset or the water dribbling above the Shiva Linga inside a cave. By just visiting a holy place like Tapkeshwar Mandir located in Dehradun, Uttarakhand will awake your soul and make you realize that even when you are away from temples, they reside in your heart and the way to worship the great lord is to follow the philosophy of kindness.

You can understand the affect of the natural Drona cave of tapkeshwar temple, Dehradun with the gospel truth that I visited the place twice in a short time. In words, I find it difficult to review the place or the positive effects of its environment. Although, I will say that it made my soul smile through my heart and spur my heart to sprinkle smile in lonely and sad hearts.

Remember one thing, you cannot fulfill your purpose as the human being without a spiritual life; you can just keep on living to fulfill the social aims and responsibilities. To give a true meaning to your existence in the human form, spiritual enlightenment is imperative. You cannot walk away from your creator! You need him in the same manner as the candle needs fire to fulfill its purpose.

Resources of Reference

Google+ : https://plus.google.com/102933084020449420420/about?gl=in&hl=en
Wikipedia : https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tapkeshwar_Temple
Maps of India : http://www.mapsofindia.com/dehradun/tapkeshwar-temple.html
euttaranchal : www.euttaranchal.com/tourism/tapkeshwar.php
tapkeshwar.in/home.htm

Wednesday, May 6, 2015

Robbers Cave Dehradun Guchhupani

Robbers Cave Dehradun – Top Tourist Place

Among different Dehradun Tourist Places, Robber's Cave and River or locally called Guchhupani (Guchu Pani) is one of the most enjoyable picnic spots. It should not be confused with the Oklahoma (U.S.) based Robbers Cave State Park.
Robbers Cave Dehradun – Top Tourist Place

Robbers Cave Dehradun Location

A River Cave Formation, Robber's Cave, India is located in Dehradun City (Uttarakhand, India); about 8 Km from Dehradun center (City Bus Stand). Robbers Cave is approximately 600 meters long and is one of the popular Dehradun Tourist Places. Maintained by Uttarakhand State Government, Guchhupani is divided into two parts, with central part having a broken fort wall. It has a gorge (a narrow cleft, in which steam runs through its steep & rocky walls), which is formed in agglomeration limestone area on Doon Valley's Dehra plateau. It has the highest fall of relatively 10 meters.

How to Reach Robbers Cave Dehradun
  • Cab
The best way is to hire a cab, if your schedule includes exploring other Tourist Places In Dehradun, as well. 
  • Local Buses
However, you can try local transportation as well. The local buses will take you to Anarwala Village, from where you need to trek about 1 kilometer to reach this most loved destination of Dehradun Tourism. You will definitely relish serenity, while hiking along the aisle, amidst the nature.

Robbers Cave Dehradun History: According to a famous theory, robbers used this place as the shelter to conceal themselves from the British. Hence, this place earned the name Robber's Cave.

Robbers Cave Dehradun Timings
: 7.00 AM - 7.00 PM on every weekday, weekend and public holiday.
Note: Pets are not allowed inside this picnic spot.

Robbers Cave Dehradun Location / Address: Guchhupani, Malsi, District of Dehradun, Uttarakhand 248003 India

Snapshot of Guchhupani – Favored Dehradun Tourist Places
  • Country: India 
  • State: Uttarakhand
  • Pincode: 248003
  • Popular for: Waterfall Cave
  • Fees: INR 20/= per head
  • Coordinates: 30°22'38"N 78°3'45"E
  • Visiting Hours/Timings: 7.00 AM - 7.00 PM
  • Visiting Days: Everyday – be it weekday, weekend and public holiday
  • Best Time to Visit: All months are ideal, however best enjoyed during April and October. Avoid extremely cold days.
  • Weather: In Summer, temperature is between 24°C to 40°C. In Winters, temperature is between 4°C to 22°C
  • Cities Nearby Robbers Cave Dehradun: Mussoorie, Vikasnagar

 

Enjoying Robbers Cave Dehradun – The Ideal Place To Visit In Dehradun


Have you ever wondered about wandering hysterically just to get some peace of mind? If yes, then I suggest you to dump this thought and pack your bag for a visit to Robbers Cave Dehradun. This place is simply awesome with lots of open area and a water steam flowing amid the rocks. Just walk into the steam barefoot and enjoy the tranquility that will be stamped in your soul forever, compelling you to visit the place again and get buried in the snow of placidity of the water stream.

You will get absolute silence at Guchhupani. The air you breathe here is completely devoid of pollutants. The trek in the water flowing through rocks is one thing which is the most blissful and enjoyable experience that will definitely make it worth exploring this attraction among the other Dehradun Tourist Places. Adding on to this relishing experience is tasting the well cooked maggi and snacks, with your feet submerged in the water stream.

Moving on, this particular Tourist Place In Dehradun is the ideal place to witness the astonishment of nature and get the solitude, which is essential in the hustling urban life. You will never be lost in the stream as it is patrolled by the hills on the both sides. It exhibits one of the strangest phenomena of nature; a water stream first goes underground and then reappears a few meter away.

Fast-track of Robber's Cave – Best Dehradun Tourist Place

  • 8 Km from Dehradun City Bus Stand
  • Can be reached by local transport
  • Reasonably priced INR 20/= entry tickets for 1 adult
  • Enjoy walking in water stream to a small waterfall inside the natural cave
  • After hiking the water body, enjoy hot maggi and snacks with your feet submerged in the water stream
  • If you are planning a trip to Guchhupani, Dehradun with family, friends or colleagues, then it will definitely be the best gift for them.

Review of Robbers Cave – A must have place in the itinerary for dehradun

The most ideal combination of springs and hills available in India, Robbers cave Dehradun has retained the charm of every visitor for ages. It gives a perfect potpourri of thrill and enrapture, getting drenched in precipitous appearance of sizzling spring that cascades the interior areas of the dark caves of Guchhupani.

Recommendation: Among the various Dehradun Tourist Places, if you are planning to visit Robber's Cave (Guchhupani or Guchu Pani) only, then 1 day trip will do.
  • From New Delhi, take a cab and reach Guchhupani in Dehradun in 5 hours. (Depending on traffic, the time might increase)
OR
  • From New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS), board any fast train that leaves early that day or late night the previous day and reach Guchhupani in Dehradun at around 10-11 AM.
  • Enjoy marching in the water stream, View the naturally build cave interior and Delight in the waterfall
  • Then just sit and relax for as much time as you want to
  • Enjoy maggi with your feet afloat in the water stream
  • This serene cave is the perfect getaway for you, if peace and solitude is on your mind.

Read about Robbers Cave, India at Wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robber%27s_Cave,_India
Connect with Robbers cave Dehradun at Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RobbersCaveDehradun
Read more about Guchhupani, Robbers cave Dehradun on Google+: https://plus.google.com/111318660669268592783/about?gl=in&hl=en