<div>The 77-year old Toy Train in Matheran is a sheer enchantment to take a ride on! The oldfangled Toy Train in Matheran is Matheran`s best bet that posits the visitors under the shady greens of the serene and unpolluted hill station of Maharashtra. It is from the window of the toy train that one can lap up bonnie of Matheran.<br></div><div><br></div><div><b>Matheran-Neral Toy Train</b> is one of the four historic toy trains functioning in India since the age of Raj rule. This Matheran Toy Train runs from the Neral to Matheran wrapping up the journey of 20 km uphill. The Toy Train`s acclivity begins at a little further to Harder Hills followed by Jamnapatti station - where the scene appears to be of the horizon with road and rail almost come together. A 90-minutes to train journey is through the clump of visual delight, greenery and fresh air 2,636 ft above the ground. Winding its way through the zig-zag mountain creases the toy train at Matheran lets many charms and enchantment of the hill station. As the trains take up curls and curves amidst the valley, the scenery changes from grassy sides to shady to tree-blanketed hills. And, before you occupy your senses in the fast-changing reel of sceneries, the coming on and off the food vendors selling their range of snacks, the children who hop board the train - while it is still moving- tells you how slow-paced the train is. Interestingly, when the train passes through the horse-shoe embankment, located near Mount Barry, the picture grips the eyes because of its beatification leashed here. This route runs for another one mile before it merges into “one kiss tunnel” on the way. Thereafter, the train crosses the Panorama Point and the Simpson Tank to reach straight to the Matheran Bazaar.</div><div><br></div><div>Matheran also presents the delight of having a ride on four identical toy trains that ply on the same route. These are toy trains that are cozy, small trains with the capacity to adjust 100 people. However, a relatively comfortable journey can be booked in advance in the first-class apartments.<br></div><div><br></div><div>The Matheran Toy Train leaves Neral in the mornings at 7.30 a.m, 8.50 a.m. and 10.15 a.m. There`s also an afternoon departure at 5 pm. From Neral the train departs to Matheran at 7 am., 9.45 am, 1.40 pm., 2.45 pm. and 4.25 pm.</div><div><br></div><div><b>Kiomoi quick tips:</b> The train timing is a subject to change and must be cross-checked with the railway sites/authorities. It is advisable to book the train in advance as the train fills up fast. The station code for Neral is NRL, and Matheran MAE. Keep in mind that there`s also a place near Mumbai called Nerul, so don`t get the two confused!</div><div><br></div><div>Toy Train Route - Neral - Hardar Hill - Jammapatti Station - Bhekra Station - Mount Barry- Panorama Point - Simpson Point - Matheran Bazaar.</div>

<div>Pandharpur is located in Maharashtra and many devotees of Lord Vitthal visit this sanctum every day and on some special occasions. Legend has that <b>Lord Vithal</b> once visited Pundalik, an ardent devotee of Vitthal. However, Pundalik was busy serving his parents. As Pundalik was busy, he threw a brick that was handy in that direction of his divine visitor. He asked him to stand on the brick. Later Pundalik forgot all about his visitor and remained absorbed in his own work. Veet in Marathi means brick and that is how the word Vitthal came into existence. Vitthal would not leave without his permission and thus has been standing on the brick ever since. The river Bhima gets the name Chandrabagha as the Moon God, Chandra, once bathed in its waters to get rid of his sins. This river is also called so because of its crescent shape here. <b>The Vitthal Temple</b>, said to be two million years old, has a scripture that dates back to 1195. Devotees rub their back in the belief that they will be exempted from 84 lakhs births. The roof and the stone pillars of the Vitthal temple have exquisite carvings. The main entrance is known as the Mahadwar. The Shrine of <b>Saint Namdeo</b>, Lord Vitthal’s ardent devotee has his shrine on the first step of the entrance. This is called as Namdeo Payari(step). To pay tribute to Namdeo’s saintly devotion, it is a custom not to touch it with the one’s feet, but to worship it. The newly constructed Darshan Mandap, opposite the main temple entrance, can accommodate 80,000 devotees during the Vari (procession). Inside the temple, there is another huge hall known as the Solkhambi Mandap. It is an imposing 16 pillared stone structure, constructed in 1802. All the pillars have exquisite carvings, while the inner one is known as Garuda Khamb, and has been working in Silver.</div><div><br></div><div>As per tradition, embrace this pillar before praying to the lord. This temple is said to be about 2,000 years old and is better kept. The minute devotees enter the temple, they are pursued by Pujaris to part with money and perform pujas, a test of one’s nerves. But the black sandstone idol of Lord Vitthal and Rukmini are truly enchanting. During the Vari, the temple remains open for 24 hours, for the god is believed to remain awake for his devotees. In fact, after the Vari is over, the temple is washed with water and the idols are given the diet of spices and sugar and a new set of clothes since they are said to be tired after a hectic day! During Navaratri and Dussehra, the deities are adorned with new clothes. Both <b>Vitthal and Rukmini</b> have an exquisite array of jewelry that includes gold, pearls, and the Navratnas. There is a warm water spring outside the temple and people wash their feet in it before entering it. Outside the temple, there is a small stone boat. It is approximately 3ft by 2ft, too heavy to lift with bare hands. But when put it in water it actually floats. One legend says that Sant Tukaram sang some abhangs, which made it float.</div><div><br></div><div>The timings of the temple are 4:00 AM to 7:00 PM and it remains open for 24 hours during Vari. Take a ferry across the river to Gopalpur, where Lord Krishna used to graze cattle. It is a small centuries-old stone temple. Also on the other bank is the ISCKON temple, a quiet place to pray. An old stone temple to Mhasoba also stands on the opposite of the Chandrabhaga. These temples are about half a kilometer from one another, and the ferry stops at each.</div><div><br></div><div>There are also good numbers of the budget as well as luxury Hotels in Pandharpur which offers excellent accommodation to travelers. Comfort and luxury are assured to make the entire tour simply the most cherished experience. Besides this, the restaurants at Hotel Aishwarya and Hotel shamiana are some of the best-known accommodations amongst the chain of Pandharpur hotels. During some spare time, the travelers can think of visiting other tourist destinations lying a few kilometers from Pandharpur. Pandharpur is definitely the place pulsating with great spiritual energy. The pilgrims who want to get their wishes fulfilled and relieve themselves from all sins must visit the <b>Lord Vitthal Temple</b>. Besides this, the travelers who wish to visit Pandharpur can also avail <i>Pandharpur Tour Packages </i>through an online booking provided by Kiomoi.</div>

<div>You might smack wet your lips when hearing the word ‘Chikki’. Let alone the chimera of hills, dams and nature bounties, Chikki compels you to recall sugar-coated groundnuts that do wonder to your taste buds. A trip to Lonavala is never complete without stuffing bags with few kilos of Chikki — the signature dish of Lonavala. Chomping a bite of Chikki just bought from some seller is not all about the confection. Chikki, the roasted groundnut confection, is available in 30 makes and combo of different recipes across the length and breadth of Lonavala.</div><div><br></div><div>As a new entrant to Lonavala shopping for Chikki needs a good knowledge of the right places to buy from, a sound acquaintance of its varieties, brands, and quality. Giving in to the taste and tact of Chikki sellers is easy than buying the right quality from the right place. A trend among visitors is to get guided by billboards and banner hanging overhead, but these are not a big help rather bombardment of advertisements for the product.</div><div><br></div><div><b>Chikki ingredients and varieties</b></div><div>Before you barge in some shop to lay hands on the emblematic concoction of Lonavala make sure you know all about the dish. Chikki is prepared with jaggery, sugar syrup, groundnuts and cashews (optional). However, this is a basic preparatory method and over the years there developed several varieties cooked with many more ingredients and in several tastes. Unlike jams and jellies tasting Chikki before buying is not so common here, so one will have to depend upon the word of mouth or trusted old shops known to be the masters in the trade. Or, alternatively, make a choice out of preferences suchlike chana, Kesar, Pista, Badam, coconut, rajgira, kurmura, til (linseed), dry fruits and combination of all these. Ginger, honey, mint and peanut crushes are some scrummy innovations that add to the existing choice. Scouting Lonavala further and you are bound you come across fruity avatar of Chikki available in the all-new taste of strawberry, mango, and chocolate. An even newer version for health freaks is the sugar-free Chikkies which are low in calorie count and prepared to serve the non-sugar customers.</div><div><br></div><div>Lonavala has a whole industry that specializes in Chikki but there are specific places where you can get to taste the real Chikki in its purest form. A range of 30-40 brands makes the choice difficult but few trusted quality and tastes that can be bulk-shopped are Maganlal, National and A-1. Well, these do not set rule-of-thumb in the buying business and there are many other makers that promise you even better flavor. Some of the brands that have a history of freshness and taste can be rightly purchased from National, Maganlal, Rupam, Navratna, Mahavir, Raval, Super, Vaishali, Mangal, Panchratna, Coopers, National Chikki Mart.</div><div><br></div><div><b>Chikki that taste</b>...... crisp and not soft is said to better quality. Chikki buffs ask you to mandatorily perform a color check for the chikki; a light brown suggests moderate use of jaggery and a darker tinge is a compromise with taste. Similarly, poor or inexpensive quality misses out dry fruit coatings or layered cake that adds to the taste of concoctions. Beware of the old stuff that smells stale and impure. The minimum price bids at Rs 80 per kg to Rs 200. Bargaining is not that big an option but taste is, so discounts are available just on bulk purchases!</div>

<div>The Bhawani temple is the same place where the great warrior Shivaji was given a sword by the goddess Bhawani. Situated in Tuljapur, Maharashtra, a few steps below the hill known as Bala Ghat, in the Central Osmanabad is the Tulja Bhawani Temple. The goddess here is also known as Kulaswamini, the patron deity of Maharashtra. With Shivaji’s many many conquests attributed to her, she has defined the state both geographically and spiritually. It is said that the goddess herself gave the Bhawani Talwar, divine Sword to the great warrior Shivaji. He set forth upon many battles, after having sought the blessings of Ma Bhawani, his favorite deity. From a far distance, the travelers can view the pinnacle of the temple hood shimmering with the golden paint.<br></div><div><br></div><div><b>Architecture and Antiquity</b></div><div>To the left of the entrance 40ft by 16 ft stone tank, is the Kallol Tirth. Bathing in it before sunrise is said to rid the devotee from all the diseases. At the Gomukh Tirth, which is a few steps ahead from the Kallol Tirth, water flows from the stone cow’s head, set at a height of 6ft. Equated to the river ganges, people in huge numbers visit this water pool. On the other side is the Vishnu Tirth. This temple is located on the North Eastern side of the Bhawani temple. It has stone steps and three entrances. It is said that Lord Vishnu blesses the devotee, so that he may get the blessings of the goddess Bhawani. According to the priests taking care of the temple, it is inevitable to do the darshan of Lord Vishnu. The pilgrims who go directly to the goddess temple; are said to left with the incomplete divine tour.</div><div><br></div><div>As the part of the every day ablutions,chickens and goats are offered to the deity Bhawani. A practice that pilgrims may be witness to. Two enticing artifacts generally called as ‘Deepmalas’ had been built in the glory of the wars fought by the royal king Shivaji. It was built by Shivaji as the memorabilia of his triumph against Afzal Khan, which stand on the either side of the homa kund.</div><div><br></div><div>Inside the temple, a stone pillared sabha mandap features images of gods and goddesses. The exquisite idol is adorned with a fine array of jewellery on festive days. The goddess is said to be possessed with eight to nine petya(boxes) of ornaments, where one box equals a kilogram of gold!!One of the necklaces, named tikli, bears the name of Chatrapati Shivaji on each of its gold pieces. A beautiful marble statue of a lion, a bed upon which the goddess rests, her delicately carved silver Simhasan (throne), and a Shivaling are also to be seen in the temple.</div><div><br></div><div>Behind the Bhawani temple is a round stone known as Chintamani . It is believed to help the devotee to take the right decision. To its right is the temple of Matangi, the goddess who slayed the demon Matanga. Uniquely, the shrine is cared for by mahars, members of a Dalit community.</div><div><br></div><div>Shrines of Khandoba, Yamaee Devi and Narsimha are also situated in the temple premises. The Chabina, a special palanquins is painted with the images of animals and other creatures. On this chariot, the idols of deities are carried on the festive occasions and Tuesday, Friday, Sunday and Poornima(full moon day). The procession which starts around 9.30 Pm and goes around the main temple, is witnessed by thousands of devotees. Sindoor and turmeric powder are thrown in the air as the millions of pilgrims chant the name of the goddess.</div>

<div>Discover what paradise can offer amidst azure skies as you move ahead with your laced ones. Trekking to Mahabaleshwar could provide you an eye satiating view of the landscapes and an opportunity to flaunt its wealth in your still or video camera. There are times when travelers go through a miserable situation and they are not able to reach the right place about which they have always dreamt. This could be called a lack of knowledge or the dearth of extensive research due to which tour operators charge extra amount from you and eventually at the end you feel duped.&nbsp;<br></div><div><br></div><div>Similarly, in a stance to Trek from Mahabaleshwar to <i>Pratapgarh</i> which is strategically located in the Western Ghats of <i>Maharashtra</i>, the aspiring travelers can walk on the roadmap which is smartly designed for them. While Trekking from Mahabaleshwar to Makarandgad, the aspiring vacationers could take a jeep or bus which could approximately consume the time frame of 6-7 hours. Dotted 12 to 15 KMS away from the main Mahabaleshwar Hill Station, the vacationers could en route their entire journey commencing, Trekking from Mahabaleshwar to Zolai Khind, Dhidhgaon, Chatubet, Ghonaspur, Makarandgad and at last they could finally reach to Pratapgad. However, while following the trail to Pratapgad, the tourists must book a guide for themselves which could charge an amount ranging from 250 to 1000 rupees.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>While on a long spur to the region, the vacationers can enjoy the mesmerizing spectacle and irresistible charm of Dudhgaon which is genuinely clubbed between the dense cover of the forest and sunbathed Koyna River. Eventually, the trail comes up from the emanating point of Koyna Lake which is entrenched near the dusty lanes of Dabbe village. For a very valid reason, the trekkers who really want to explore the mysticism of the region could cover this distance of few kilometers by walking. But in order to prevent your self from extreme frustration, the enthusiasts could also avail the full advantage of launch service which connects Dabhe to other villages of the region. The blend of culture and natural beauty suffused in the region could steal your heart for a few hours. Additionally, if you are a honeymoon couple then the feeling of romanticism may magnetize your senses and could force you to fall head over heels with your loved ones. Perhaps, aggravated by the series of emotional trance with your partner or family, you can en-route your Trekking from Ghonaspur to Makrangad, from where you can visit Mahadev Temple, uncanny caves and an encounter with Jangam tribe would definitely take you back in the glorious past of the region.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>Trekking from Makarandgad to Pratapgad Fort it will take around 1 hour during which you can visit Maruti Temple. From Parapar village followed by the trail to Sondpar village, it will take the time of 30-45 minutes leading you to Afzals Khan’s Tomb. Afzal Khan was a barbaric general of the Mughal Empire who tried to stab Shivaji with an act of evil gambit. But Shivaji with his brisk mind game stashed Afzal Khan by his concealed tiger claws. Supported by the series of events the base of the fort which is 10 minutes away from the village is honored with the bronze statue of Maratha Chief Shiva Ji.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>Close to Mahabaleshwar, there is Bhavani Mata Temple which houses an idol of Mahishasur Mardine made from a single ammonite fossil brought by Shivaji from Nepal in the year 1661. While Trekking from Partapgad the vacationers can embrace the tantalizing scenic view of Raigad, Torna, Rajgad and several other destinations. The entire region of Mahabaleshwar-Pratapgad will greet you with chilly winds at night and invigorating climate, strong enough to rejuvenate your tired mind with cosmic energy.</div><div><br></div><div>They're also good numbers of budget, Luxury, as well as Home, Stays in Mahabaleshwar located near the tea gardens provide all the comforts and luxuries at best price tags. The travelers can also avail Mahabaleshwar Tour Packages which include a stay at one of the finest hotels in Mahabaleshwar, a platter of meals and cab service to commute within the precincts of the region.</div>

<div>The Vari (procession) time of the year is back in the monsoons. Asia’s largest <b>pilgrimage</b>, Alandi-<b>Pandharpur Yatra </b>is undertaken by many people in Maharashtra and several parts of India. The Alandi-Pandharpur Yatra is seen to be the most sacrosanct procession with a history as old as eight-sanctuaries. The tradition traces back to Sant Dyaneshwar who founded the Bhagats sect adopted by Sant Namdeo, Sant Tukaram, and Eknath in due course of time. All these Saints contributed immensely to the <b>Varkari tradition</b>. Thus, the Vari is the procession that carries the Padukas, the wooden footwear of the four saints to <b><i>Lord Vitthal’s Temple</i></b> in Pandharpur.</div><div><br></div><div>Every year more than 150 Palkhis (palanquin) commence from southern and western parts of India, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Gujarat, and Maharashtra. Devouts walk for 10 days to three weeks to two months during the yatras. The concluding date is fixed but there is no fixed date to start the yatra. Varkaris reach Pandharpur on the Ashadi Ekadashi in July.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div><b>The Route</b></div><div>The beginning point for Alandi-Pandharpur Yatra is at Aland. There are fixed halts at Pune, Saswad, Jejuri, Walha, Lonad, Phaltan, Barad, Natepute, Malshiras, Taradgaon, Bhandi-Shegaon, Velapu, Varkhari ( the point where the Palkhis of Sant Dyaneshwar and Sant Tukaram meet), and Pandharpur. The Yatra goes as schedule but there are many schedules that allow days of rest en route. Several stretches of the Yatra allow an easy walk and others are facilitated with comforts to the Varkaris, and still others stretches are ecstatic with chants and abhangs of Sant Dyaneshwar.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div><b>The Varkaris</b></div><div>Taking up the Vari is not that difficult as there are dindis who carry appropriate rations, medical aid and other help in material and kind. The dindis provide food and accommodation on registration of a nominal fee. Aspiring Varkaris can register with Sriharikatha Seva Pratisthan Charitable Trust for any medical aid and assistance. The Pandharpur Vari is just not about the temple and lords. The Vari is a great opportunity to taste local delicacies and Villagers are always keen to know how the Varkaris like their product. All halts have small meals and dance. There are several conquests such as Ringan and Dhava that mark the uniqueness of the Vari tradition. During the Ringan a sacred horse called Maulincha Ashva, who is believed to be the soul of the saint whose idol is being carried in the Palki runs through the rows of pilgrims who try catching the dust particles kicked off and smear their head with the same. Dhava is another kind of race where everyone wins and it is held to commemorate the same way Saint Tukaram caught the view of Pandharpur Temple and started running in sheer exhilaration.</div>

The Tiger Reserve County tour packages in Maharashtra offers the travel enthusiasts with an exciting option to saunter through the verdant jungles of the regions. Nagpur, Pench, Tadoba, Melghat, Navegaon, and Nigeria are the destinations that are included in the well-weaved itinerary offered by Kiomoi. The dream to watch tigers yawning and frisking with their mate can add to the unforgettable tour memoirs. Besides this, wildlife enthusiasts can also spot deers, elephants, birds, cheetah, wolfs, leopards and snakes. The 6 days/ 7 nights tour involves all transportation and stays costs inclusive of all taxes. The adventure enthusiasts can also indulge themselves in the lush green bounty of the whole region. They can go for trekking, elephant safari, camping, and many other activities. Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve, Pench National Park, Navegaon National Park, and Nagzira Wild Life Sanctuary are wildlife magnets where visits are included in the itinerary.

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