Tourists flock to waterfalls in Belagavi
2
Belagavi: With the monsoon rains rejuvenating rivers and landscapes, thousands of tourists are thronging the popular Gokak, Godachinamalki, and Chikhale waterfalls in Belagavi district.
Given the rising footfall, police security and bandobast have been intensified at all three locations to ensure public safety. The North-West Karnataka Road Transport Corporation (NWKRTC) is also planning to launch special monsoon package bus services starting next week.
"We will shortly start the special buses to waterfalls in the district," said Rajesh Huddar, divisional controller, NWKRTC, Belagavi, told TOI.
Gokak Falls
Located 62km from Belagavi city, Gokak Falls is renowned for its 170ft drop of thundering waters over rugged terrain. The 170-metre-long suspension bridge over the falls offers a breathtaking view, although it was temporarily closed for repairs.
Adding to the attraction, the state govt has proposed South India's first cable car project at the site under a public-private partnership model, with boating and amusement facilities also in the pipeline.
by Taboola
by Taboola
Sponsored Links
Sponsored Links
Promoted Links
Promoted Links
You May Like
Искате да научите повече за новото BMW 2 Gran Coupe?
BMW
Научете повече
Undo
"The action plan for the cable car project is in its final stages," confirmed district minister Satish Jarkiholi.
Godachinamalki Falls
Situated 51km from Belagavi and just 10km from Gokak, the Godachinamalki Falls (also known as Markandeya Falls) cascades in steps before plunging 100 feet into a gorge. Its location on the Markandeya River and scenic setting makes it a favourite for nature photographers and weekend travellers.
Chikhale Falls
Located 45km from Belagavi in the Kanakumbi forest range, Chikhale Falls has rapidly gained popularity among nature lovers and adventure seekers. The forest department reopened the site on June 11, responding to high demand from the public.
Belagavi tourists are also flocking to Amboli Falls in Maharashtra's Sindhudurg district (71km from Belagavi), along with Kavalesaad and Baba waterfalls nearby.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
3 hours ago
- Time of India
New Zealand increases working hours for students: Here is what's changing from November 2025
New Zealand increases student work hour limit In a landmark move to reshape its global education appeal, the New Zealand government has launched the 'International Education: Going for Growth Plan,' a wide-ranging strategy aimed at doubling the education sector's economic value by 2034. The plan introduces significant reforms in international student work rights, visa policies, and student support systems positioning New Zealand as an attractive, future-ready alternative amid tightening visa rules in countries like the US and Canada. Work rights expanded A major highlight is the decision to increase in-study work hours for international students from 20 to 25 hours per week, effective November 3, 2025. This update will apply to all new student visas granted from that date, regardless of application submission time. Existing visa holders can also access the additional hours by applying for a variation of conditions or a new visa, subject to standard immigration fees. International students will continue to enjoy full-time work rights during scheduled academic breaks, provided these are stated on their visas. Additionally, in-study work rights are being extended to include students enrolled in approved one-semester Exchange or Study Abroad programmes, as well as secondary school students in Years 12 and 13. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Turn Nervous Into Natural – Book a Free Demo Today Planet Spark Book Now Undo The latter is subject to written permission from parents and school authorities. New visa requirements and pathways The government has also announced stricter compliance measures: students who change education providers or downgrade their course level will now be required to apply for a new visa, replacing the earlier option of requesting a variation. This move aims to streamline oversight and improve transparency. In a forward-looking shift, a six-month post-study work visa for vocational (sub-degree) graduates has been proposed to help bridge the transition to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) pathway. Additionally, efforts are underway to simplify access to multi-year student visas, making longer-term study more viable. Ambitious growth targets New Zealand's ambitious International Education: Going for Growth Plan sets clear long-term targets to strengthen its position as a leading global study destination. The country aims to nearly double the economic contribution of international education and significantly boost student enrolments by 2034. Key growth metrics outlined in the plan include: Total international student enrolments: Targeted to grow from 83,400 in 2024 to 119,000 by 2034 Economic contribution: Expected to increase from NZ$3.6 billion in 2024 to NZ$7.2 billion Global ranking as a study destination: Aiming to improve from 18% to 22% in the Top 3 preference rate among global students In 2024, each international student spent an average of NZ$45,000 per year, significantly benefiting New Zealand's wider economy, especially sectors like hospitality, housing, retail, and tourism. These economic ripple effects form a key part of the government's rationale for expanding education access and support systems for international learners. Stronger student support and digital services The Going for Growth Plan also includes key investments in student welfare, including: 24/7 digital support platforms Enhanced mental health services Quality accommodation initiatives A transition to a fully digital visa processing system, ensuring faster decisions and improved communication. What comes next Looking ahead, the implementation of New Zealand's student-focused reforms will begin in phases. The 25-hour in-study work limit will officially take effect from November 3, 2025, allowing new student visa holders to work additional hours during academic terms. Meanwhile, the new visa rules requiring fresh applications for students who change their education provider or downgrade their course level are already in force. In parallel, the government is actively developing multi-year student visas and a short-duration post-study work visa for sub-degree graduates, aimed at creating smoother transitions into the workforce. TOI Education is on WhatsApp now. Follow us here . Ready to navigate global policies? Secure your overseas future. Get expert guidance now!
Time of India
3 hours ago
- Time of India
10 caves of India that are a must visit for every history and culture lover
1 2 3 India's monuments soar into the sky, are majestic, and have been attracting visitors from across the globe. But then there are some of the mind-blowing stories that are buried beneath the earth, carved into the quiet hills, cliffs, and ancient rock faces. These are caves in India that aren't just natural formations, they're cultural time capsules. Some whisper Vedic chants, others echo Buddhist meditations, and a few just drop your jaw with their sheer audacity. So if you're a history geek, a culture vulture, or just someone who loves to do interesting things during the weekend, here are 10 Indian caves you absolutely must crawl, climb, or gasp your way through. Ajanta Caves , Maharashtra Carved between the 2nd century BCE and 6th century CE, the Ajanta Caves are basically an ancient art gallery trapped in time. The frescoes and sculptures here depict the life of Buddha in vibrant detail, and is a must-visit for sure. Read more: 9 places in the Himalayas to experience total silence Ellora Caves, Maharashtra If Ajanta is intricate, Ellora is majestic. This UNESCO site has 34 caves that span Buddhism, Jainism, and Hinduism. The highlight of this place, the Kailasa Temple, is a monolithic wonder carved top-down from a single rock. It's the architectural marvel that you would be surprised to witness. Elephanta Caves, Maharashtra Just a ferry away from Mumbai, Elephanta is an island that hides colossal sculptures of Lord Shiva, including the famous Trimurti, a three-faced stunner that's been quietly watching centuries go by. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like American Investor Warren Buffett Recommends: 5 Books For Turning Your Life Around Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo Badami Caves, Karnataka Tucked into red cliffs, the Badami Caves are rock-cut sanctuaries filled with intricate carvings of Vishnu, Shiva, and Jain Tirthankaras. Climb a little and you'll get panoramic views that could convert any non-believer into a lover of old stones. Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves, Odisha Built around the 2nd century BCE, these caves were where ancient Jain monks meditated, but they also feature inscriptions referring to King Kharaval. Still impressive? Absolutely. Jogimara Caves, Chhattisgarh Jogimara Cave is regarded as one of the oldest in India to feature fresco paintings, with inscriptions suggesting they date back to the 3rd century BCE or even earlier. Nearby, the Sitabenga Cave holds the distinction of being India's earliest known theatre-style cave. According to legend, these hills were also a resting place for Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana during their exile. Both caves are nestled on the western slopes of the northern Ramgarh hills. Bhimbetka Rock Shelters, Madhya Pradesh Located approximately 45 km southeast of Bhopal, along the road to Hoshangabad, the Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka span a stretch of nearly 10 km in length and about 3 km in width. This UNESCO World Heritage Site comprises over 700 rock shelters, with more than 400 adorned with prehistoric paintings. Tabo Caves, Himachal Pradesh These small, naturally formed caves near Tabo Monastery were used by Buddhist monks for deep meditation. They're not fancy, but if you're into minimalist ancient living, this is your spot. Read more: 6 places in India that can totally rival Thailand Undavalli Caves, Andhra Pradesh Carved out of sandstone in the 4th-5th century, these caves are famous for the massive reclining Vishnu statue and beautiful facades. A curious mix of Hindu and Jain elements, it's like an ancient version of interfaith harmony carved in stone. Varaha Cave Temple, Tamil Nadu Located in the rock-cut haven of Mahabalipuram, this Pallava-era cave temple might be compact, but the carvings pack a punch. The most striking sculpture in the cave depicts the Hindu god Vishnu in his Varaha (boar) incarnation, majestically lifting Bhudevi, the goddess of Earth, from the depths of the cosmic ocean. Surrounding this powerful scene are intricate carvings of various mythical beings.
Time of India
5 hours ago
- Time of India
UAE now allows visitors from 52 nations to drive with their home country licenses: See if you are eligible
License exchange in the UAE requires a valid residence visa, passing a medical exam, and submitting legal translation of documents/ representative Image TL;DR 52 nationalities can now drive in the UAE using their home licenses while visiting. Residents from those countries can exchange their license for a UAE one. No driving tests required; conditions apply based on visit or residency status. South Korea: license exchange only, not recognition for visitors. The United Arab Emirates has announced an update under its 'Markhoos' initiative, introduced by the Ministry of Interior as part of ongoing efforts to streamline public services and improve accessibility for visitors. The initiative supports the country's broader move toward digital governance and aims to simplify procedures related to driving license recognition and exchange. This update allows nationals from 52 countries to drive in the UAE using their home country's driving licenses while on a visit, and also enables them to exchange their licenses for a UAE license if they acquire residency, without the need to undergo theoretical or practical driving tests. The decision reflects the UAE's broader aim of facilitating seamless mobility for visitors, while offering reciprocal benefits for UAE citizens abroad. The initiative aligns with the UAE government's strategic objective of providing electronic and smart services across sectors. It also works both ways, not only can foreign visitors drive in the UAE with their national licenses, but UAE citizens can also use or exchange their driving licenses abroad in partner countries. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like An engineer reveals: One simple trick to get internet without a subscription Techno Mag Learn More Undo Recognition and Exchange of Licenses The Ministry's framework distinguishes between two key processes: recognition and exchange, each with specific conditions and target users. Recognition This applies to non-residents or visitors in the UAE. Under the recognition policy, visitors can drive using their national driving licenses during their stay, provided they are not in the country for residency purposes, no additional tests or local license are required. Exchange This applies to residents of the UAE who hold a valid foreign driving license. They are allowed to exchange their national licenses for a UAE driving license upon meeting specific requirements, with no need for theory or road tests. This exchange is valid only after obtaining a UAE residence permit. Both recognition and exchange options apply to vehicle categories, typically motorcycles and light vehicles, which vary by nationality and are enabled through mutual agreements or memoranda of understanding (MoUs) between the UAE and the respective countries. Requirements and Conditions Depending on whether an individual is visiting or residing in the UAE, different requirements apply: For Recognition (Visitors) To drive in the UAE using a national license: The visitor must not be in the UAE for residency purposes. The visitor must hold a valid national driving license. The license must cover the vehicle type, typically motorcycles and light vehicles, which vary by nationality For Exchange (Residents) To exchange a foreign license for a UAE license: The applicant must hold citizenship of a country eligible for exchange. A valid UAE residence permit is required. The applicant must have a valid and permanent national driving license. Must meet the minimum age requirement, which is 17 years or older. A medical (vision) test must be passed. Any additional legal or administrative requirements must be fulfilled. Some nationalities may need to surrender their original licenses, based on bilateral agreements. Application Process and Fees The exchange process is carried out via the digital 'MuroorKhous' platform. The fee is AED 600. Applicants must submit a legal translation of their foreign license and a copy of the original. The UAE license can be issued electronically or delivered by courier, depending on the applicant's preference. Countries Eligible for Recognition and Exchange The updated list includes 52 countries whose citizens are now permitted to either use their national licenses in the UAE during visits or exchange them for a UAE license upon acquiring residency. These include: Estonia, Albania, Portugal, China, Hungary, Greece, Ukraine, Bulgaria, Slovakia, Slovenia, Serbia, Cyprus, Latvia, Luxembourg, Lithuania, Malta, Iceland, Montenegro, Israel, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Uzbekistan, the United States of America, France, Japan, Belgium, Switzerland, Germany, Italy, Sweden, Ireland, Spain, Norway, New Zealand, Romania, Singapore, Hong Kong, the Netherlands, Denmark, Austria, Finland, the United Kingdom, Turkey, Canada, Poland, South Africa, Australia, Croatia, Texas, the Republic of North Macedonia, the Republic of Kosovo, the Kyrgyz Republic. It's important to note that South Korean citizens can only exchange their driving licenses for a UAE license after becoming residents. They are not allowed to use their national license for driving in the UAE while visiting. Benefits and Broader Impact This policy update offers significant benefits for both visitors and residents: For Visitors: It eliminates the need to obtain temporary driving permits or go through local testing procedures, making travel in the UAE more accessible and convenient. For Residents: Foreign nationals relocating to the UAE from eligible countries can now obtain a UAE driving license with minimal bureaucratic friction, supporting their integration and mobility within the country. For UAE Citizens Abroad: The system is reciprocal. Emirati nationals can use their UAE driving licenses in countries with mutual recognition agreements. In nations without such arrangements, they can apply for an International Driving Permit (IDP), which is recognized under a UN convention. FAQ: Q. Can tourists drive in the UAE using their home license? Yes, if they're from one of 52 eligible countries and meet the required conditions for recognition. Q. Do I need to take a driving test to get a UAE license? No, eligible residents can exchange their national license without taking theory or practical tests. Q. What types of vehicles are covered under this rule? The categories, typically motorcycles and light vehicles, vary by nationality based on bilateral agreements. Q. How much does the license exchange cost? The service costs AED 600 and is processed through the digital MuroorKhous platform. Q. What documents are needed to exchange a license? You'll need a valid residence permit, original national license, a legal translation, and to pass a vision test. Additional requirements may apply based on your nationality.
