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Sikkim
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The perfect destination for vacationers in quest of enchantment tranquility or adventure. A jewel embedded in snow clad mountains, Sikkim is a primeval land that is unlike anywhere else. Where one dreamy day blends into the next. Bordered by Tibet, Bhutan, Nepal and West Bengal, Sikkim's rugged and dramatic terrain has elevation variations ranging from 284 mts to 8540 mts. This land of mystery and myths casts an enchanted spell that holds a visitor in thrill. A land so rich in culture, tradition and steeped in religion. |
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A
verdant island, once uninhabited, Bangaram is situated some 300km off Cochin.
It has 120 acres of virgin beach fringing an idylic lagoon with its many
hued waters ranging from emerald to turquoise to cerulean blue. When the
sun sets in a shower of colour behind the palms on the beach of this island
paradise, one takes to leisurely moonlit activities. When the tropical morning
dawns, the sensations of the night fade away to be replaced with an invigorating
day of water sport of one's choice. The area abounds in the endangered sea
turtle whose playground is the surrounding coral reefs. Scuba divers may
spice their adventure by exploring a sunken wreck. A honeymooner's bonus:
a nearby uninhabited island, with water and rations provided for the duration!
With admission restricted to 30 couples, could Bangaram be more exclusive? The cosy cottages... |
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A mere 2½ hour drive out of Cochin, Munnar is a small town in the midst of the Tata Tea Estates. It is an ideal counterpoint to Bangaram. The nearby Chinar and Erivakulam wildlife sanctuaries are not to be missed, as also Chhittivaru, some 40 kms away. Everywhere nature has clothed the landscape with a mantle of lush green, punctuated with lofty trees, bubbling brooks and cascading waterfalls. It is in this setting that the stately Indian Ibex gambol with abandonment through the reserves. Mountain and water sport keep one actively relaxed. A motor trip to Kodai 97 kms from Munnar, along the highest road south of the Himalayas, cuts through thickly forested regions dotted with Toda vilages enroute. |
