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Business Standard
3 days ago
- Business Standard
Discover Monsoon Getaway in Karnataka: Top Scenic Getaways
When the monsoon clouds roll over Karnataka, the state transforms into a lush, green haven filled with waterfalls, mist-covered hills, and peaceful retreats. From coffee-scented hill towns to historic ruins and dense forests, a monsoon getaway in Karnataka offers a rich blend of nature, culture, and quiet escapes, all perfect for a refreshing break from the city rush. If you're searching for the best monsoon getaways from Bangalore, this guide highlights top destinations and ideal places to stay. 1. Hampi – History with a Touch of Rain Hampi may be best known for its sun-drenched ruins, but the monsoon season adds a mystical touch to this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The boulders glisten in the rain, the Tungabhadra River swells with life, and the surrounding landscape turns a rich green. Bangalore to Hampi Distance: 343 km Top Attractions: Virupaksha Temple, Hemakuta Hill, and a coracle ride in the river. 2. Chikmagalur – Coffee Country in the Clouds One of the most popular places to visit during monsoon in Karnataka, Chikmagalur is a paradise of coffee estates, waterfalls, and trekking trails. The monsoon adds drama to the hills and makes the forested landscape even more inviting. Bangalore to Chikmagalur Distance: 242 km Top Attractions: Mullayanagiri Peak, Baba Budangiri, and Hebbe Falls. 3. Sakleshpur – Hidden Hills and Rain-Kissed Trails Located in the Western Ghats, Sakleshpur transforms into a lush green paradise during the rains, making it a perfect monsoon destination in Karnataka. With rain-washed hills, coffee estates, and quiet trails, it offers a peaceful retreat from the city. Ideal for nature lovers and weekend travellers, Sakleshpur is all about slow travel and scenic beauty. Bangalore to Sakleshpur Distance: 222 km Top Attractions: Manjarabad Fort, Bisle Ghat Viewpoint, and the Green Route trek. 4. Coorg (Madikeri) – The Classic Monsoon Retreat Coorg, also known as Kodagu, stands out as one of the most popular monsoon getaways in Karnataka. During the rainy season, the region transforms with mist-covered hills, lush coffee plantations, and gushing waterfalls. The cool weather and peaceful surroundings make it an ideal spot for a refreshing monsoon break. Bangalore to Coorg Distance: 242 km Top Attractions: Abbey Falls, Raja's Seat, Mandalpatti, and Talacauvery. 5. Dandeli National Park – Forest Escapes and River Adventures If you're craving something wilder, Dandeli is the place to be. Located in northern Karnataka, this forested region becomes a monsoon wonderland with dense foliage, roaring rivers, and great wildlife sightings. Bangalore to Dandeli National Park Distance: 460 km Top Attractions: Jungle safaris, kayaking, river rafting, and birdwatching. 6. Agumbe – Karnataka's Own Cherrapunji Known for its high rainfall, Agumbe is one of the wettest places in India and one of the top monsoon destinations in Karnataka. This rainforest village in the Western Ghats is rich in biodiversity and charm. Bangalore to Agumbe Distance: 346 km Top Attractions: Barkana Falls, Onake Abbi Falls, and the Agumbe Rainforest Research Station. Other Notable Monsoon Destinations: Looking for more options? Here are a few more beautiful spots to explore during the monsoon season: Mysore: Royal heritage, fewer crowds, and a pleasant climate make it perfect for a short escape. Gokarna: A quieter alternative to Goa, with clean beaches and dramatic monsoon skies. Nandi Hills: Just a short drive from Bangalore, ideal for quick morning drives and cloud-filled views. Kemmangundi: Lesser-known hill station with waterfalls and lush greenery, great for a peaceful break. Kabini: Monsoon enhances this wildlife hotspot, making it one of the best times to visit for boat safaris and forest views. Where to Stay in Karnataka: For a comfortable and memorable monsoon stay, here are two great Club Mahindra resorts in Karnataka that you can consider: Club Mahindra Madikeri, Coorg Resort Surrounded by lush coffee plantations, this resort in Coorg offers scenic views, cozy rooms, and a perfect setting to enjoy the rains in Coorg. Ideal for families and couples looking to unwind in nature. Club Mahindra Golden Landmark Resort, Mysuru Located close to Mysore's royal attractions, this resort in Mysuru blends comfort with heritage charm. A great monsoon stay for those who enjoy culture, history, and relaxed sightseeing. Apart from your memorable stay at these resorts, a Club Mahindra membership gives you access to over 140+ Club Mahindra resorts across India and worldwide, making every holiday special, wherever you choose to go. With curated experiences, family-friendly activities, and comfortable stays, your vacations become truly stress-free and rewarding. With options ranging from forest retreats to royal cities, the best monsoon getaways in Karnataka cater to every type of traveller, families, couples and adventure seekers. Just pack your raincoat, keep your travel flexible, and let Karnataka's monsoon charm do the rest. Karnataka tourism truly shines in the rainy season, and these destinations prove it.
Listly
3 days ago
- Listly
Must-do experiences in Sigiriya: A bucket list for adventure lovers
With an impressive history of more than 1,500 years, exploring Sigiriya Rock or 'Lion Rock' will easily come off as one of the best things to do in Sigiriya. This UNESCO World Heritage Site speaks volumes of the skill and ability of the ancient builder through the architecture on show. Constructed by King Kashyapa, Sigiriya Rock boasts a gamut of details that range from lion paws found at the entrance, a polished Mirror Wall, stunning boulder & water gardens and the highlight of them all – the Sigiriya Frescoes. These murals depict the maidens believed to have once served in the royal court. Further, at its summit, travellers will be greeted by the ruins of King Kashyapa's palace coupled by sweeping views of verdant valleys, mountains and lakes.
Morocco World
3 days ago
- Business
- Morocco World
Fez Among Finalists in Global Bloomberg Challenge for Waste Innovation
Marrakech – Fez, Morocco's spiritual and cultural heartbeat, was named one of 50 global finalists in Bloomberg Philanthropies' 2025 Mayors Challenge — a high-stakes competition designed to reward cities not just for dreaming big, but for dreaming smart. Over 630 city proposals from every corner of the world landed on Bloomberg's desk, but Fez stood out. And not just for its iconic alleys or ancient charm — this time, it was all about waste. More specifically: how to turn the city's most informal and overlooked workers — waste pickers — into key players in a new urban future. Fez's pitch? A waste sorting center that doesn't just clean up the city, but cleans up the system. Better working conditions, formalized roles, and hands-on training to improve recycling rates. It's sustainability with soul — and structure. In return, Bloomberg is handing Fez $50,000 (over MAD 455,130) to prototype its plan, plus an invite to the much-coveted Ideas Camp this July, where city innovators gather, brainstorm, and maybe even plot the next big global fix. Then, in January, 25 winners will walk away with $1 million each and the tools to turn their prototypes into full-on policies. For Fez, this isn't just a nod — it's a moment. A city known for its past is now leaning hard into the future. Read Also: Rebirth of Al Batha Museum in Fez: A Journey Through Moroccan History The city isn't just Morocco's spiritual and cultural capital — it's a city built on layers of knowledge, craft, and community resilience. Home to the University of Al Quaraouiyine — the oldest still-operating university in the world — Fez has long been a hub for forward thinking, even when wrapped in centuries-old walls. Its sprawling medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a living ecosystem where thousands of artisans, traders, and informal workers keep the local economy alive. Waste pickers, like the ones Fez hopes to uplift through its new initiative, are part of this underrecognized workforce that has always sustained the city's rhythm from behind the scenes. The city also has a growing vision for environmental and urban planning: from efforts to rehabilitate the Oued Fez river and reduce pollution, to past projects focused on preserving heritage while improving waste infrastructure in the medina. Fez is no stranger to complex urban challenges — or creative solutions. Its participation in the Bloomberg Mayors Challenge isn't a pivot — it's a progression. A city that once led the world in education is now stepping up as a leader in inclusive urban innovation. Bloomberg Philanthropies today revealed the 50 finalists of its latest Mayors Challenge — a global competition designed to spotlight the boldest, most impactful ideas in urban innovation. Now in its sixth edition, the Challenge uplifts municipalities that dare to rethink how essential city services are delivered. From Boise to Belfast, Ansan to Addis Ababa, and Fez — the 50 cities selected span 33 countries and collectively represent over 80 million people. Their proposals tackle everything from public transit and youth safety to climate resilience, water supply, sanitation, and social inclusion. Each finalist, including Fez, will receive the money to prototype their concept and will participate in Bloomberg's Ideas Camp this July — an intensive workshop where urban leaders fine-tune their projects with expert guidance. Then, in January 2026, 25 of the most promising cities will be awarded $1 million (approximately MAD 10,000,000) each, along with operational support to make their vision a reality. Read Also: Five Senses Plan Reimagines Fez's Restored Fondouks as Creative Hubs Tags: Bloomberg Challenge for Waste InnovationFez Morocco
India.com
3 days ago
- India.com
Escape Crowds With 5 Secret Monsoon Getaways Near Kolkata You Need To Visit
As the cultural heart of India Kolkata beckons visitors with its historical gateway and exquisite food as well as welcoming local people. Locals tend to avoid the monsoon transformed Kolkata to seek peace in unexplored picturesque sites outside the city which deliver serene surroundings away from urban pressure. The local residents adore these under-the-radar spots near Kolkata even though these tourist destinations fail to capture international visitor interest. Local residents near Kolkata are aware of five secluded holiday spots during monsoon which this guide will introduce to tourists. 1. Bakkhali Situated about 130 kilometers west of Kolkata the South 24 Parganas district holds Bakkhali as its quaint coastal town. Bakkhali is known as a location with crystal-clear beaches and peace-filled surroundings which reach new heights during monsoons. A captivating symphony forms when rain sounds blend with sea wave noises throughout the location. The coastal view of the Bay of Bengal joining with river waters can be observed from Henry's Island. Visitors should explore both fishing villages where they can taste fresh seafood items. 2. Sundarbans The Sundarbans, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, lies about 100 kilometers southeast of Kolkata. This extensive mangrove wilderness shelters the magnificent Royal Bengal Tiger together with various other domestic animal species. The combination of wetlands and heavy vegetation during monsoon creates a magical nature setting which appeals to those who love natural exploration. Managing boat services through the waterways provides people with opportunities to see the authentic wonder of this remarkable biological system. Sunderbans remains a popular winter destination among tourists yet the residents prefer to experience its pure beauty in the rainy season. 3. Mandarmani Mandarmani exists approximately 185 kilometers beyond Kolkata serving as the longest stretch of beach that locals can drive upon in West Bengal. Rusting commercialization in Digha stands as the main reason many local residents prefer the unexplored coastal town of Mandarmani. When monsoon season clears the coastline with its rains the horizon merges perfectly with the gray skies creating a marvelous effect. The location provides the perfect opportunities to find peace in nature without visiting overwhelmed tourist destinations. 4. Jhalda Jhalda exists in the Purulia district as it lies 270 kilometers from Kolkata. The scenic region receives fame because of its sloping countryside landscape and dense plant life and flowing waterfalls. Areas surrounding Panchet Dam and its hillocks develop lush vegetation and strong flowing streams throughout the monsoon season. The area attracts trekking and camping fans along with people who enjoy peaceful tranquility. The unique tribal traditions along with cultural arts complete the revealing charm of Jhalda's unnoticed beauty. 5. Raichak-on-Ganges Raichak-on-Ganges provides an ideal weekend relaxation spot that lies only 50 kilometers from Kolkata. The enchanting small town with gentle riverside charm stands located along the Ganga's banks. The monastery witnesses dramatic changes with river water rising during monsoon season while making the adjacent vegetation fields become emerald with colorful imagery awaiting photographers. The Fort Raichak resort offers premium lodging amenities in combination with unique handmade products available at the local markets. People in the area choose Raichak because it creates a calm atmosphere and remains straightforward to reach. Conclusion Kolkata residents can easily reach hidden monsoon destinations through short traveling options that extend from weekend break possibilities. Trekking beyond tourist areas will allow you to experience authentic natural beauty together with the cultural depth of Bengal. When you visit Kolkata during the rainy season, explore these rare locations that residents keep to themselves since you might stumble upon your new preferred destination.
India.com
4 days ago
- India.com
Discover 10 Most Beautiful Forests In India You Must Visit For Nature And Wildlife Adventure
photoDetails english Updated:Jun 25, 2025, 01:43 PM IST 1 / 12 India, a land of rich biodiversity, is home to some of the most stunning and diverse forests in the world. From mangrove ecosystems to dense rainforests and tranquil hill woods, the country's forests offer unique experiences for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and adventure seekers. Here are 10 must-visit forests in India that showcase the true beauty of the wild. Sundarbans, West Bengal 2 / 12 Why Visit: Largest mangrove forest in the world and home to the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger. Highlight: Boat safaris through intricate tidal waterways, spotting crocodiles and exotic birds. Wayanad, Kerala 3 / 12 Why Visit: Lush tropical rainforests nestled in the Western Ghats. Highlight: Trekking through the forest, visiting ancient caves, and spotting elephants and deer. Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand 4 / 12 Why Visit: India's first national park and a haven for tigers and birdlife. Highlight: Jeep safaris, river rafting, and rich biodiversity in the Himalayan foothills. Gir Forest, Gujarat 5 / 12 Why Visit: The only place in the world to see Asiatic lions in the wild. Highlight: Safari tours through dry deciduous forests and rugged hills. Kaziranga National Park, Assam 6 / 12 Why Visit: UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the one-horned rhinoceros. Highlight: Elephant-back safaris and birdwatching in lush floodplains. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Kerala 7 / 12 Why Visit: Evergreen forests surrounding a beautiful lake in Thekkady. Highlight: Boat safaris with views of elephants, wild boars, and exotic birds. Kanha National Park, Madhya Pradesh 8 / 12 Why Visit: Inspiration for Rudyard Kipling's Jungle Book. Highlight: Sal and bamboo forests, tigers, and swamp deer (barasingha). Silent Valley National Park, Kerala 9 / 12 Why Visit: One of the most pristine and undisturbed rainforests in India. Highlight: Rich flora and fauna, including endangered lion-tailed macaques. Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh 10 / 12 Why Visit: Highest density of tigers in India. Highlight: Majestic forested hills, ancient fort ruins, and wildlife photography. Namdapha National Park, Arunachal Pradesh 11 / 12 Why Visit: A biodiversity hotspot in the Eastern Himalayas. Highlight: Dense tropical forests, rare species like red pandas and clouded leopards. 12 / 12 India's forests are not just travel destinations—they are living, breathing ecosystems that inspire awe and respect. Whether you seek thrilling wildlife encounters or peaceful retreats into nature, these 10 forests promise an unforgettable experience.
