28 November 2013

Skywatch Friday - A dry tree

This dry tree attracted my sight at Shivappa Nayaka Palace, Shimoga. The grey linings against the blue and white background made it a unique sight.

Linked to Skywatch Friday

25 November 2013

Koodli, Tunga-Bhadra Sangama

Koodli is a small village in Shimoga District. This is the place where rivers Tunga and Bhadra meet, and then on flow together as Tungabhadra. Hence the name Koodali, which means meet in Kannada. A small temple with nandi denotes the exact point where the two rivers meet, and is considered to be sacred.
As we entered the place a priest asked us to perform special worship to the river, which we ignored and enjoyed the beauty. Just like in any Sangama, due to death rituals performed here, there are so many people behind you demanding bakshish(money).
 At the sangama is a 12th century Rameshwara temple and Narasimha temple built in Hoysala style.

Koodli has Smartha Monastery, stated to have been found in 16th century by Jagadguru Narsimha Bharathi Swamigalu of Sringeri. Within the premises of the matt are the shrines of Sharadamba and Shankaracharya. Koodli is also known as Varanasi of the south, it is home to Rushyashrama, Brahmeshwara, Narasimha and Rameshwara temples.  
Koodli is 15kms from Shimoga and is accessible by road.

20 November 2013

Kuala Lumpur - A Dream Destination

Kuala Lumpur is a blend of Modern buildings, history and culture, nature and adventures, shopping, food and beaches. Here are list of things I wouldn't miss when I am in Kuala Lumpur.
Petronas Twin Towers and KL Tower:
Enjoy breathtaking view of Kuala Lumpur City from the world's highest 2 storey bridge connecting the Petronas Twin Towers, KL Tower, standing atop Bukit Nanas has something for the nature lovers along with the panoramic view.  The verdant green surrounding Menara KL is the Bukit Nanas forest. This green lung of Kuala Lumpur is a sanctuary to a wonderful array of flora and fauna, and unique tropical climate.
Patronas Twin Towers
KL Tower

History and Culture: The Islamic Art Museum, National Museum, National textile museum reflects states history and culture. While National Monument was built to honour those who gave their lives in the cause of Peace and freedom, P Ramlee Memorial the house of great actor, singer, composer and director late Tan Sri P Ramlee has a collection of his awards, photos and personal artefacts. Also are religious attractions, Jamek Mosque and National Mosque.
Shopping: Kuala Lumpur is considered as shopper's paradise. Where three of the world's 10 largest malls are in KL. BBKLCC, the stretch from Bukit Bintang to Kuala Lumpur City Center offers abundant fashion, food and entertainment. On the contradictory Central Market offers you a wide range of handicrafts, art and authentic Malaysian souvenirs. The Central Market's outdoor stage offers visitors colourful arts and cultural events.
Nature and Wildlife: For Nature and wildlife lovers are Aquaria KLCC, KL Bird Park, Perdana Botanical Gardens and Zoo Negara. While Aquaria KLCC showcases the fascinating nature of aquatic life and behaviour of animals and crwaly creatures above water, the KL bird park located at Perdana Botanical Garden offers you with more than 3000 birds in free flight. Egg incubation room and nursery, feeding programms and daily bird shows are not to be missed. And the best thing which makes Zoo Negara unique from most of the zooes is, its open at night and you get to catch glimpse of animals which are active at night.
KL Bird Park, photo credit Malaysia Tourism



Aquaria KLCC, photo credit Malaysia Tourism 

So plan your trip soon to explore this wonderful place. 

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