Travellers choice

India's first in-bus magazine brought to you by KSRTC

THE

TRAVELLERS We reach 9 lakh people every month

CHOICE

DASARA

2009

Ready to ferry for

‘Dasara Darshan’ PLEASE READ AND KEEP THIS MAGAZINE BACK

| 2 | Travellers Choice • Dasara 2009

Editor Vijay Madhav Chief Features Editor Chetana Dinesh Associate Directors Anushree Das - Mumbai Rajini N - Bangalore Editorial Consultants Prashant Nanjappa Srikanth Ashok Ucchangi B V Prakash

The

Travellers

Choice

Ready to ferry for ‘Dasara Darshan’ Time and again, the KSRTC has taken a leap forward in facing the Herculean Task of providing not only smooth and efficient means of transport for tourists to witness Mysore Dasara, but also extend services to rural areas at an economical cost for the benefit of people at large.

Design Anekal Narayana Photographer D.C.Nagesh For advertisement & enquiries 9900948514, 080-26676064 MUMBAI # 134, 1st Floor Ashoka Complex, Lokamanya Tilak Marg, Mumbai - 400 001 Tel: 022-22642477 BANGALORE # 37, I Floor, 2nd Main Road, N R Colony, Bangalore - 560 019 Phone: 080-26676064, Fax: 080-26676065 MYSORE # 375, 14th Main Road, Saraswathipuram, Mysore - 570009 Tel-Fax: 0821-2341737

06 12 16 20 22 26

The Grandeur of Mysore Dasara Dasara Highlights From the time immemorial Feast for the senses seeing is believing the real god

30 34 38 40 44

A trek up the hill Wild outings Footprints on the rocks of faith Cuisine : Mysore Delicacies Health : `say goodbye' to acidity

CHENNAI Block C - 9, Flat No 16 South Asian Federation Village, Koyambedu, Chennai - 600 170 Tel: 9444688664

Printed & Published by India Inc. Communications on behalf of KSRTC.

(This magazine is not for sale.

KSRTC property)

Ph: 0821 - 2440110

24

Lord on the clouds at misty heights

Travellers Choice • Dasara 2009 | 3 |

From the Managing Director's desk

Milestone in

passenger comfort

On the occasion of Dasara, the Corporation is happy to introduce the latest world class multiaxle Volvos which have more seating capacity, comfort and ensure noiseless smooth journey to our travellers on long distance routes.

Dear Travellers, I extend you all a very warm Navarathri & Vijayadashami festival wishes. I am happy to inform you that due to popular demand the Corporation has decided to relaunch its premium lifestyle magazines – The Travellers Choice & Sarige Sourabha for the benefit of travelling public.

The magazines come in a new sleek reader-friendly format with more number of pages and provide our travellers feature articles on tourism, lifestyle, strides by KSRTC, new facilities being added and a time table of premium services operated from Bangalore. The Corporation, among the many notable firsts to its credit, is the one and only Corporation to launch in-bus magazines till date in the country.

I am also happy to inform you that these magazines are undeniably very popular among our travellers and reach over 9 lakh people per month. We have once again begun our journey in publishing and still have a long way to go. We look forward to your bouquets, brickbats and suggestions to make our journey fruitful. We strive to provide you with standard reading material while travelling in our buses.

Incidentally, KSRTC has emerged as the No. 1 premium service public transport operator in the country with its fleet of 274 Airavathas with new additions being made constantly in other services such as Ambari, Meghadhoota, Rajahamsa and Sheetal. Recently, we have introduced the latest 9400 series of Volvos with their special features of uniform and effective air conditioning, noiseless CRDI engine, electronically controlled ABS breaking system, electronically controlled suspension, LCD TV for entertaining our passengers and mobile/laptop chargers.

On the occasion of Dasara, the Corporation is happy to introduce the latest world class multi-axle Volvos which have more seating capacity, comfort and ensure noiseless smooth journey to our travellers on long distance routes.

To conclude, I express my profound thanks to our committed advertisers and request their continued support in making our publishing initiative a grand success. I hope you all will avail of our special services to Mysore Dasara and once again affirm the Corporation’s commitment to passenger comfort and promise many more things in the future.

Thanking you for your patronage.

“A customer is the most important visitor on our premises.

He is not dependent on us. We are dependent on him. He is not an interruption of our work. He is the purpose of it.

He is not an outsider of our business. He is part of it. We are not doing him a favour by serving him. He is doing us a favour by giving us the opportunity to do so.”

- Mahatma Gandhi

| 4 | Travellers Choice • Dasara 2009

- Gaurav Gupta

Managing Director

An Artist's Creation #39, Manandavady Road, (H.D.Kote Road), Kalawadi Gate, Mysore 570 008.

Ph: 0821-25977 94/95, Fax: 0821-2529143. e-mail: info@chitravanaresorts.co.in Website: www.chitravanaresorts.co.in

(Approved by the Government of Karnataka, Department of Tourism)

Travellers Choice • Dasara 2009 | 5 |

Ready to ferry for

‘Dasara Darshan’ A

daunting task is ahead to the official public transport carrier KSRTC for providing transport connectivity to people who wish to visit the Heritage City of Mysore and witness Dasara. Over the years, the Corporation has proved its mettle in its Dasara operations and is ready to ferry lakhs of visitors to Mysore this year also in its colourful ‘Dasara Specials’ lined

up for the purpose.

Over the last two months, Karnataka Transport Minister R Ashok and his team of senior officials have been working on a blue print for providing an effective transport network and traffic management system for this year’s Mysore Dasara. An integrated plan of action has been drawn to operate buses in multi levels and in

Time and again, the KSRTC has taken a leap forward in facing the Herculean Task of providing not only smooth and efficient means of transport for tourists to witness Mysore Dasara, but also extend services to rural areas at an economical cost for the benefit of people at large. | 6 | Travellers Choice • Dasara 2009

different segments, providing a variety of connectivity for both rural and urban masses.

Providing connectivity, creating an effective transport network both within and outside the State, services in a time-bound manner, transport management and security are the key issues that have been discussed in detail. Making available new buses

and existing ones in top condition are the hallmark of KSRTC’s state of preparedness for Dasara 2009.

I n c i d e n t a l l y, many have acknowledged KSRTC as the largest unofficial tourism promoter in Karnataka and depend on its services to visit Mysore for a happy witnessing of Dasara festivities. To fulfill this responsibility, the four divisions of the Corporation - Bangalore Central, Mysore Urban, Mysore Rural and Mandya have joined hands by pooling and augmenting their fleet strengths for operations in a more systematic and orderly manner.

Ashok informed The Travellers Choice that our objective is to encourage citizens to use public transport system more efficiently and discourage private vehicles which are

a major cause of congestion in Mysore at the time of Dasara. Besides, the KSRTC is providing transport for all classes of people at an affordable cost.

For instance, Ashok said, for those who wish to visit Chamundi Hills, K R Sagar, Srirangapattana, Sangama and Nanjangud Temple, the Corporation is charging Rs 60 as travel expenses for all these places put together.

Central, said special buses would be operated on key routes like Hyderabad, Chennai, Calicut and other places to bring Dasara visitors and they can make a change over in Bangalore. “We are monitoring bookings at reservation counters in key cities through our AWATAR network and if need arises we will definitely introduce additional schedules,” he said.

Over 450 vehicles have been enlisted as Dasara Specials by the KSRTC, perhaps the largest ever by any transport corporation to cover an event of this magnitude. Bangalore Central takes the lead in pressing into service 200 vehicles out of which 20 Airavathas and Rajahamsas each were kept exclusively for Dasara operations.

Mr Gowda said the traffic management plan involves mutual monitoring of vehicles, deployment of mobile workshops in Bidadi, Channapattana and Mysore, utilisation of spare fleet to the maximum extent and the availability of a sufficient number of crew. While officers from the headquarters will be deployed at Mysore and Dharmasthala, each bus will have a driver and a driver-cum-

Mr Ganagana Gowda, Senior Divisional Controller at Bangalore

Travellers Choice • Dasara 2009 | 7 |

conductor for round-the-clock duty, he said. In all, 100 staff has been deployed exclusively for Dasara operations.

According to Mr Gowda due to prolonged holidays, it has been a practice for many to visit Dharmasthala during this season, adding that, “Over the years, we have been witnessing a steady rise in traffic in this sector and the Corporation will ensure adequate number of buses for them.”

On the other side, it is an uphill task ahead for Mr M N Srinivas, Divisional Controller at Mysore Urban. The Corporation expects over 5 lakh passengers to Mysore compared to an average 3 lakh registered in the previous years. “The operations for Mysore Urban are multifold, providing external transport, City transport and package tour services. While the Urban Division operates services to major cities, both within and outside Karnataka, it has the responsibility of providing transport within the city as well,” Mr Srinivas said.

According to Mr Srinivas, city services would be augmented with more buses and a special pick-up and drop facility is also being run to connect major city areas with important culture centres, which will help people to avail buses after attending the cultural programmes held during the nine days of Navarathri. Besides regular reservation counters, separate counters for daily passes will be set up and information kiosks are also being planned to guide passengers, he added.

Ashok : Dasara for rural poor

Bangalore to Mysore Bus fares Airavatha

-

240/- Rs.

Ambari

-

180/- Rs.

Ordinary

-

85/- Rs. (MCTC)

Rajahamsa

-

138/- Rs.

Sheetal

-

125/- Rs.

Meghadhoota

-

164/- Rs.

Mysore City Concessional fares 1. Mysore - KRS

- 10/- Rs

2. Mysore - Chamundi hills

- 10/- Rs

3. Mysore - Nanjangud

- 15/- Rs

4. Mysore - Gundlupet

- 20/- Rs

5. Mysore - Chamarajanagar

- 20/- Rs

6. Mysore - Kollegala

- 25/- Rs

| 8 | Travellers Choice • Dasara 2009

Mr Srinivas said the three divisions of Mysore Urban, Rural and Mandya have pooled 160 vehicles for exclusive Dasara operations in rural areas. These buses will provide connectivity to Chamundi Hills, KRS, Srirangapattana, Gadduge, Mandya/ Maddur, Nanjangud, H D Kote/Saragur, Chamarajanagar, Madikeri/Virajpet, Hunsur/Periyapattana, K R Nagara/Hassan, Gundlupet, Pandavapura/Nagamangala, Bannur/Malavalli, T

Mallikarjun : Onus on Dasara Darshan Narasipur/Kollegal, and also Dharmasthala.

The Mysore Rural Division is endowed with the special task of enabling poor women, senior citizens and children from rural areas to witness Dasara. According to Mr S Mallikarjun, Senior Divisional Controller, Mysore Rural, over 6,000 people in and around Mysore District will be taken to view Dasara during the last 3 days in special KSRTC buses as well as a free ride to important sightseeing spots like Chamundi Hills,

Zoo, Palace and Dasara cultural programmes.

Mr Mallikarjun said the plan christened ‘Dasara Darshan’ envisages covering 29 taluks in the neighbouring 5 districts of Mysore and 3 buses for each taluk will be sent to pick up people and facilitate them to view Dasara. The programme is for 6 days starting from September 23 to 28 and each person would be charged a nominal Rs 50. Periyapatna, Hunsur, H D Kote, K R Nagar, Nanjangud and T Narasipur are the 6 pick-up points from where the services will be operated. While breakfast will be served at pick-up points, lunch and dinner will be served in Mysore City, free of cost, he said. Three buses will leave from each pick-up centre in the morning at 8.00 am and return by 8.30 pm. Tickets will be sold through respective tahsildar’s offices on a firstcome-first-serve basis.

Mr Mallikarjun said though an expenditure of Rs 200 to Rs 250 would be incurred per person per trip, the Dasara Committee has decided to keep the tariff at Rs 50 in order to popularise the scheme and enable people’s participation, especially that of women, children and senior citizens.

Ganagana Gowda : Well thoughtout plan

M N Srinivas : Challenging task of connectivity

Package Tour

Route details

Departure from Mysore

Arrival to Mysore

Fare for adults

Fare for Childrens

Kms

Giridharshini

06.30

21.30

210.00

105.00

305

Bandipur - Gopalaswamy hills Biligirirangana hills - Chamundi hills

Jaladharshini

06.30

21.30

250.00

125.00

376

Nagarahole - Irpu falls - Rajaseat - Abhi falls - Golden Temple (Bylukuppe)

Nagaradharshini

06.30

21.30

90.00

45.00

145

Nanjangud (Srikanteshwara Temple) - Uttanahalli - Chamundi hills - Nandhi - Museam - Zoo - Jaganmohana Palace Srirangapattana (Dharidoulat, Nimishambha Temple, Gumbaz, Srirangaswamy Temple)

Devadharshini

06.30

21.45

150.00

75.00

230

Bluff - Moodutere - Talkad Somanathapur - Srirangapattana - KRS

Travellers Choice • Dasara 2009 | 9 |

On the right track The objective of KSRTC is to provide the best of public transport in the country, public transport that is both affordable and comfortable, to all segments of people in Karnataka, tells Gaurav Gupta, MD, KSRTC, in an exclusive interview to Bindya Das of Travellers choice.

As MD of KSRTC, What is your take on the tourism situation in Karnataka?

The potential is tremendous. From beaches on the Western Ghats to historical legacies and forests. Badami, Vijayanagar, Halebid, etc. Religious and spiritual-oriented tourism are also catching on. Karnataka definitely has varied experiences to offer to the traveller.

Though, I think, some things must be put in place and channelised in the right direction.

Taking into account the recent attacks on women, how safe are our buses for women?

We have had no such complaints

| 10 | Travellers Choice • Dasara 2009

from any women travellers commuting in our buses. Electronic surveillance of major bus stations is practised and crew members monitor wayward incidents. We also have a full-fledged security wing. I don’t see any reason why any lady should feel unsafe in our buses.

What is KSRTC’s offering to the common man?

The best of public transport in the country. Affordable and comfortable transport services to all segments of people in Karnataka... From villages, small towns, district headquarters to the State capital.

We also offer luxury travel to the higher end segment, for people who are capable of having their own mode

of transport. We have identified many new routes and we will be adding new buses and services.

In terms of management, tell us abut the functioning of KSRTC. What is the level of technology/internet and communications within the organisation?

The KSRTC is a pioneer in its functional level. The first intercity Volvo was started in India by the KSRTC. We are still the largest fleet.

Hundred per cent operations of tickets are done on the electronic ticketing machine. This aids in accountability and saves time. The KSRTC was the first to introduce advanced online reservation system known as the AWATAR. One can get

tickets not just at terminals but also at the KSRTC authorised booking centres, or even on the web directly on www. ksrtc.in When it comes to recruitment too, there is transparency, where employees are recruited through the online generation and submission of interview letters. Sensor-controlled driver test enables us to select the best of candidates. We have a high degree of computer awareness and regular monitoring of all systems.

We are also in the process of having a GPS based control room for vehicle tracking from a remote location.

With traffic problems in the City, what is the KSRTC doing to help in traffic management?

Bangalore is a big metropolis with 30 lakh vehicles and management is a big issue. One needs to see to

must carry out their routine using public transport or cycling. Cycling for short distances can be advantageous to environment, reduce vehicular congestion and also lead to healthier Bangalore citizens.

People have to realise that they need to minimise the use of private transport.

Tell us about KSRTC’s moves in the area of public transport‌ In the City segment, BMTC has taken up the City Volvo services, the best among city travel bus services.

The response has been tremendous.

I am sure it will be picked up by the residents of Bangalore.

Apart from Volvo, we are looking for premium luxury travel, like Mercedes Benz and a few other manufacturers who have offered their services to us. We are taking test drives of the buses to see if they are

respected.

What is the equation and interaction between the KSRTC and the upcoming metro?

The KSRTC has been working with the Metro to provide Integrated Transport Services. A portion of the Majestic Bus Station will be given to the Metro to construct an underground station.

Also, development of satellite bus stations at Peenya, Byappanahalli and other stations where we have integrated with the Metro.

At Majestic, KSRTC, BMTC, Metro and Railway connectivity will be in one place. However, this is still in the process of planning.

In the coming years, there will be an integration of road based transport system with the Metro.

The Majestic Bus Station will be

The newly inducted multi axle Volvo buses are more comfortable and a further step in the direction of improving long distance passenger comfort

it that the flow of traffic on the road is smooth. Citizens and commuters must be taken into confidence to make them adopt good traffic practises and habits. We must encourage people to use public transport. Equal emphasis should be laid on protecting the interest of pedestrians as roads are not just for motorists.

How can citizens help in traffic management?

One has to realise we cannot have a situation when everybody can buy vehicles and presume there will be enough space on the road. One has to ask for and demand better and more comfortable public transport. Citizens

suitable and convenient to our roads.

Feedback is given on comfort, vehicle engine, seats and body. We are in the process of trying out new buses to provide comfort to the traveller.

By providing premium services to citizens, we are trying to minimise the need to use private transport.

What, according to you, makes for road safety?

Protecting the interest of the pedestrian. One must demand road safety for pedestrians. The rights of pedestrians are to be protected in every way possible. Rash driving should strictly be avoided and every person on the road should be

converted into an integrated transport complex with provisions for metro and bus stations, vehicle parking and offices.

What special offers and services are available to commuters from the KSRTC? Several special offers are available to our cummuters. Special passes like the 7-day pass for use within the State, 3-day and 5-day passes for Express and Rajahamsa buses, etc.

We also offer special concessions for group travel. In fact, we have 10-15 categories of concessional travel.

Travellers Choice • Dasara 2009 | 11 |

The Grandeur of Mysore Dasara

| 12 | Travellers Choice • Dasara 2009

Dasara, the Nada Habba of Karnataka, is the season to celebrate the victory of good over evil.

Visit Mysore to taste the royal splendour of Dasara.

D

asara, also called Navaratri, is among the most important festivals celebrated in India.

The festival of Dasara concludes the festival of Navaratri and the holy day also commemorates the triumph of good over evil. Celebrated for nine days, Dasara is the Nada Habba of Karnataka and is celebrated with much pomp and gaiety in the city of Mysore.

Dasara celebrations are kicked off with a traditional pooja offered to Goddess Chamundeshwari, the presiding deity of Chamundi Hills.

The following days, right up to Vijayadashami, are no less than a carnival as the Royal City plays host to a variety of activities like music, dance and sports.

Travellers Choice • Dasara 2009 | 13 |

Gombe Habba or the festival of dolls is an integral part of Dasara festivities in Mysore when dolls depicting Gods, Goddesses and scenes from epics such as Ramayana and Mahabharatha are arranged in most houses. There is an interesting legend related to this exhibition of toys, also known as Golu in Tamil Nadu. According to

| 14 | Travellers Choice • Dasara 2009

this legend, when Goddess Durga needed tremendous power, all other gods and goddesses transferred their power to her and stood still as statues.

To respect the self-sacrifice of these deities, people arrange small statues representing gods and godesses in their homes.

The festival is celebrated on the

tenth day of the Ashwini month (around October) according to the Shaka Hindu calendar. This is one of the three-anda-half days in the Hindu lunar calendar, whose every moment is considered auspicious.

On the last day of Dasara, known as Vijayadashami, the statues installed on the first day of Navaratri

are immersed in water. This day also marks the victory of Lord Rama over Ravana. On this auspicious day, people visit each other’s houses and exchange sweets. On this day, people worship the Banni tree and exchange its leaves as a symbol of good wish.

On Vijayadashami, a grand procession is taken through the streets of the city with the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari on the back of an elephant. This procession, known as jamboo savari, marking the end of the nine-day festival, dates back to Vijayanagar Empire when the kings used to launch wars or expand their territories. Wadiyars who ruled Mysore brought this tradition to Mysore.

rangoli. Dances are performed in their honour. They are also offered a pooja. Once in the city, they are taken to a camp and trained everyday. They are also on a strict diet. The mahouts and their families accompany them.

On the D-day, the camp turns into a beauty parlour and the pachyderms are painted in vibrant hues. They are even decked up with jewellery such as rings, anklets, neck pieces and bells.

They are an interesting sight to watch.

Religious significance Dasara celebrates the victory of Lord Rama over Ravana. It is believed that Rama returned to Ayodhya after his

victory over Ravana on Vijayadashami.

It is also believed that it was on Vijayadashami that the Pandavas returned to their home. They are said to have hidden their weapons in Banni trees and hence Banni leaves are exchanged on the day of Vijayadashami as a celebration victory of good over evil.

According to the Hindu calendar, Vijayadashami is one of the very few days where every moment is considered to be auspicious. People usually buy new things and celebrate the season with great joy and happiness.

Today’s procession includes tableaux, folk dance troupes, music bands, elephants, horses and camels. Among the prominent participants is the police band.

Adding star value to the procession are the elephants. Twelve trained jumbos participate in the event. They are given a royal treatment right from the word go. The elephants are brought from forests around Mysore and on their entry into the city, they are given a grand welcome.

Roads are decorated with buntings, banners and

Travellers Choice • Dasara 2009 | 15 |

Dasara Highlights

Air Show One of the unique attractions of Dasara celebrations is the Air Show which was started in the year 2005. The audience can witness spine-chilling stunts, war operation demonstration, sky diving and many other adventurous activities by the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Indian Army. This year, main attractions include the three fighter aircraft flight, three transport aircraft flight, static display of one Chetak aircraft and an MI-8, petal shower by a helicopter and demonstration by the air warrior drill team. A trial show will be conducted on September 22 in Bannimantap (situated

| 16 | Travellers Choice • Dasara 2009

on the Bangalore-Mysore Highway, near LIC Circle), followed by an air warrior symphony orchestra at 6.30 pm in the Mysore Palace on September 23 and finally the grand event on September 24 in Bannimantap. For further information, contact 0821-243 8931, 09342182006.

Cycling You can participate in the heritage cycle rally which is being conducted for the first time this year as part of Dasara festivities. It commences on September 20 at 9 am and will be flagged off from the Maharaja’s

College grounds. The route for the heritage cycle passes through some important landmarks and roads of the city including the Ramaswamy Circle, Chamaraja Double Road, Gun House Circle, Nanjangud Road, Race Course Road, Mysore Zoo, Regency Talkies Road, Police Academy Road, Five Light Circle, St. Philomena’s Church, Town Hall, K R Circle and the Deputy Commissioner’s Office. The six-kilometer rally will finally conclude at the University Oval Ground. Apart from the heritage cycle rally, there are men’s cycle championship, women’s cycle championship, tricycle races

plastic items, kitchenware, cosmetics and eatables are set up and they attract a significant number of people.

A play area containing attractions like giant-wheel, rocking-boats, merry-goround, etc. is also set up to provide entertainment to people. There will also be stalls by various governmental agencies and departments to portray the achievements and projects undertaken by the State Government.

For further information, contact 08212440828, 09448274685.

Flower Show On the occasion of Dasara, the Department of Horticulture, in association with the District Horticulture Society, organises a flower show from September 19 to September 29 at Curzon Park situated on Sri Harsha Road in Mysore. The entry fee for the flower show is Rs 10 (adults), Rs 5 (children aged over 6 years) and entry is free for children aged below 6. The other attractions of the flower show are the various cultural programmes conducted every evening and competitions organised for the public in bonsai, flower rangoli, Indian floral art, vegetable carving and drawing.

For further information, contact 08212428703, 09480364454.

Food Mela The premises of the Command Area Development Authority (CADA) office will be turned into a food court as 25 stalls selling varieties of lipsmacking eatables will be put up here. The stalls which will be divided

into vegetarian and non-vegetarian sections will serve the traditional cuisines of Karnataka along with ice creams, cool drinks, chats, dosas, rotis, sweets and fresh fruit juices. The food mela, which will be on till September 26, will also host varieties of cultural programmes. You can also participate in various food competitions like the banana eating competition and juice drinking competition which will be held on September 22 between 4 pm and 6 pm. For further information, contact 0821-2422107, 09448439392.

Raitha Dasara (Farmer’s Dasara) Keeping in mind the value of farmers, various events are organised for the sake of farmers, which draw thousands of farmers from in and around Mysore.

The five-day event which will be held in the Dasara Exhibition Ground was inaugurated on September 20 with decorated bullock carts and cattle procession from the Mysore Palace to the Dasara Exhibition Ground. The inaugural procession was followed by historical drama, tribal, cultural and kamsale programmes. On September 21, an exclusive district-level sports meet for men and women farmers was held in the Dasara Exhibition Ground.

While the men-folk participated in slow cycle race, three-legged race, coconut kernel peeling competition, kabaddi, tug of war and sack race, women took part in rangoli competition, throw ball matches and tug of war. On September 22, a procession of samples of water and soil from major rivers of the state will be taken in a procession

Flower Show in three categories - children aged below 5 years, children aged between 5 and 10 years and the physically handicapped. For further information, contact 09480815228.

Dasara Exhibition So as to heighten the festivities and keep them on even after the 10-day celebrations come to an end, Dasara Exhibition will be organised in the Dasara Exhibition Grounds situated opposite to the Mysore Palace. The exhibition will be inaugurated during the festivities and will continue till late December. Various stalls selling clothes,

Travellers Choice • Dasara 2009 | 17 |

from Mysore Palace to the Dasara Exhibition Ground at 9.30 am. On September 23, extempore competition will be conducted for farmers, followed by a seminar on the pros and cons of biotechnology. On September 24, competitions in essay writing and quiz will be conducted for farmers.

For further information, contact 0821244223, 09448618130.

Sports A state-level sports meet is also organised from September 22 to September 25. Almost all the sports

torch light parade by city policemen in synchronised formation, equestrian show by Mounted Police and is rounded up by magnificent fireworks display. This year, the event will be held on the September 28 at 7 pm.

For further information, contact 08212418303, 09449875103.

Wrestling Wrestling is one of the keenly watched events during Dasara because of its historical significance as well as the rare opportunity to witness this ancient sport. This year, the men’s

pm), Bharathanatyam by Belagere Gowrinagaraj (7.30 pm - 8.30 pm) and veena music concert by Indrani Laxman (8.30 pm - 9.30 pm). On September 24, you can enjoy sugama sangeetha

by Sangeetha (6.30 pm - 7.30 pm), sitar recital by Yograj (7.30 pm - 8.30 pm) and one more show of sugama sangeetha by Nagaraju (8.30 pm - 9.30 pm). On September 25, you can enjoy poet’s meet which will be held at 6.30 pm. On September 26, there will be a dance ballet by S Laxmikumar (6.30 pm - 7.30 pm), Bharathanatyam by Usha B (7.30 pm – 8.30 pm) and sugama sangeetha by Kikeri Krishnamurthy (8.30 pm - 9.30 pm). On September 27, there will be Hindustani music by Savitha Amaresh Nugadoni (6.30 pm 7.30 pm), Bharathanatyam by Sindhu Surendran (7.30 pm – 8.30 pm) and sugama sangeetha by Goutham (8.30 pm - 9.30 pm).

Janapadothsava (Folk art performances)

events will be held in Chamundi Vihar Stadium, starting with athletics on September 23. The other sports events are basketball, ball badminton, handball, hockey, gymnastics, table tennis, volleyball, kho-kho, kabaddi, football (Mysore University sports pavilion), lawn tennis (Maharaja College tennis court), badminton (Mysore University sports pavilion and swimming (Mysore University swimming pool). For further details, contact 0821-2564179, 09845004610.

Torch light parade One of the most awaited events of the 10-day Dasara festivities is the torch light parade which marks the end of the celebration. The event is held in Bannimantap Grounds on the evening of Vijayadashami and it includes a

| 18 | Travellers Choice • Dasara 2009

and women’s wrestling competitions which started on September 19 will be on till September 26 in the Devaraja Urs Multi-Purpose Stadium. Statelevel competitions will be followed by national-level competitions. For further information, contact 0821-2330360, 2414191 and 09844186980.

Jaganmohan Palace Various cultural programmes will be staged till September 27 in the Jaganmohan Palace as part of the Dasara festivities. On September 22 you can enjoy a dance ballet by Sridhar Jain (6.30 pm - 7.30 pm), Carnatic music

by Venkatraghavan (7.30 pm - 8.30 pm) and sugama sangeetha by Amrutha Chandrashekar (8.30 pm - 9.30 pm).

On September 23 is Hindustani music

by Nagabhusan Hedge (6.30 pm - 7.30

As part of Dasara celebrations, a four-day janapadothsava (folk art performance) will be organised in Janapada Kalaranga situated in the Kalamandir premises from September 23 from 5 pm onwards. You can enjoy the exhibition of folk adventure sports on September 23. On September 24 there will be Yakshagana and Kodava cultural programmes, on September 25 you can watch Janapada rasa sanje (folk songs) by Janardhana and, on the last day (September 26), a folk dance programme followed by the closing ceremony.

Kalamandira Various cultural programmes are also organised in Kalamandira situated on the Mysore-Hunsur Road till September 27. On September 22 will be a dance programme by Chiranthan Samsthe (6.30 pm - 7.30 pm), folk music by Sadashiva Sangappa Yatnal (7.30 pm - 8.30 pm) and Carnatic music by Smruthi.C Malleshwaram (8.30 pm - 9.30 pm). On September 23, you can watch Bharathanatyam by Tejasmitha Ponnaiah (6.30 pm - 7.30 pm), Gamaka vaachana by Matturu Krishna Murthy (7.30 pm - 8.30 pm) and Nataka Sankranti by the Mysore District Journalists’ Association (8.30 pm - 9.30 pm). On September 24, you can enjoy Hindustani music by Balachandra Nakod (6.30 pm – 7.30 pm), Bharathanatyam by Chethan Radhakrishna (7.30 pm – 8.30 pm), followed by another Bharathanatyam performance by Veena Murlidhar (8.30 pm – 9.30 pm). On September 25, there will be sugama sangeetha

by Indu Nagraj (6.30 pm - 7.30 pm), dance ballet by Raagini Shastri (7.30 pm – 8.30 pm) and cultural programme

by Appajigowda (8.30 pm - 9.30 pm). On September 26, there will be sugama sangeetha performance by H R Leelavathi, Deksha Betsurmath and Purvaj Vishwanath from 6.30 pm to 9.30 pm. On September 27, there will sugama sangeetha by Archana.R Kulkarani (6.30 pm - 7.30 pm), Bharathanatyam by M Ramesh (7.30 pm – 8.30 pm) and Hindustani music

by Rajeshwari Virupakshagowda Patil (8.30 pm - 9.30 pm).

Kavighosti (Poets’ meet) A conscious effort is being made every year during Dasara festivities to spread the fragrance of Kannada literature by organising poets’ meet.

Dasara Kavighosti is a six-day poets’ meet which started on September 21. The inauguration at Kalamandira was followed by kavya gamaka dance programme (10.30 am – 1 pm) and hasyothsava (1 pm – 8.30 pm) at the same premises. On September 22, chiguru kavighosti (for the people aged below 18) will be held in Maharaja College from 10 am onwards. On September 23, aralu kavighosti (for people aged over 20) will be held in the Maharani Arts and Science College from 10 am onwards. On September 24, chutuku kavighosti (short poems) will be held in Maharaja PU College from 10 am onwards. And on September 25, Dasara kavighosti will be held in the Jaganmohan Palace from 3 pm onwards. For further details, contact 0821-2523270, 09448600254.

Mysore Palace The Mysore Palace premises also acts as a venue for many cultural programmes that begin at 6.30 pm everyday and continue till 9.30 pm.

Some of the celebrities who would be performing this year includes C Aswath from Bangalore, Ustad Ali Ahmed from Calcutta, Hariprasad Chaurasia and Jagjeet Singh from Mumbai and Dr Balamuralikrishna from Chennai (September 23). You can also enjoy the symphony by Indian Air Force artistes on September 22 and orchestra by the

police band from Mysore on September 24.

Rangayana If you are a drama lover, then drop into Ranagayana in Kalamandira during Dasara festivities as two shows of famous dramas are performed from September 19 to 27. The shows will be held at 3.30 pm and 6.30 pm. The dramas which will staged here during the Dasara festival are Check Mate, Kondavararu, Alibaba and 40 Thieves, Trunk (22 September), Ajji Kathe (23 September), Burjwa Gentleman (24 September), Sathru Andre Sathra?

(25 September), Tabarana Kathe (26 September) and Alilu Ramayana (27 September). All the dramas will be performed in Kannada language.

Yuva Dasara The biggest crowd puller and the most entertaining event during Dasara is Yuva Dasara which is a six-day entertainment programme graced by some of the leading singers and musicians in the country.

The performers for this year include Shreya Ghoshal, Raghu Deekshit (21 September), Shaan (22 September), Mano Murthy (23 September), Kunal Ganjawala (24 September) and S P Balasubrahmanyam (25 September).

The musical evenings start at 6 pm everyday at the Maharaja College Grounds and it includes folk dance performances from other states like Rajasthan, Orissa, Assam and Gujarat.

For further information, contact 08212542061, 2541863, 09900908712.

Travellers Choice • Dasara 2009 | 19 |

Across the lush green sugarcane and paddy fields of Malavalli is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Lakshmi Narasimha, dating back to 10th C Cholas.

From the time

immemorial T

here are many unexplored places of interest in Karnataka and one such temple of significance is the Marenahalli Lakshmi Narasimha Temple near Malavalli in Mandya District. This temple is claimed to be more than 1,000 years old, protected and preserved by the Archeological

| 20 | Travellers Choice • Dasara 2009

Survey of India (ASI). According to popular belief, the temple is prehistoric and Chola king Raja Raja Chola rejuvenated and reconstructed the temple during the 10th C. This ancient temple, typical of the Chola style of architecture, is located on a 12 acre sprawling land, and is a sacred place for performing rituals such as marriage, upanayanam, namakaranam, etc. Though the temple is perhaps the oldest in the region, it has been able to withstand the British onslaught in 1799 when Tippu Sultan was forced to withdraw his troops from Malavalli to protect Srirangapattana and Mysore.

The other deities in and around the main deity of Lakshmi Narasimha are the idols of Garuda, Anjaneya, Ammanavaru and Alwar.

This place is of special importance to Srivaishnavites and over 3,000 to 4,000 people assemble here on special occasions like Brahma Rathotsava, the four Saturdays of Shravana Masa and Karthika Vishnu Deepotsava.

Marenahalli is about 3 km from Malavalli and the Lakshmi Narasimha Temple gets decked up for the Ramanuja Tirunakshatra (Jayanthi), and the annual Brahma Rathotsava that starts from Narasimha Jayanthi, culminating in the car festival and Maha Abhisheka, all in the month of May. During this festive season, while special poojas are performed in the mornings, there will be a variety of utsavs in the evening everyday, and the last day is marked by hittu-huli (ragi balls and curry made of green

leafy vegetables), for which the locals bring their freshly grown produce, cook near the temple, offer it to God and distribute it among the devotees who come to the temple even from the neighbouring states of Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh.

Says Sathyanarayan, the chief priest of the temple, “Apart from regular visitors, several devotees and VIPs also visit the temple seeking special blessings of the Lord. While about 200-300 people visit the temple on weekends, about 40-50 people from nearby towns and villages visit the temple on regular days.”

“The temple makes arrangements for food for the visiting pilgrims on advance request. We provide puliyogare, pongal and curd rice as Lord’s prasadam,” says Mr Sathyanarayan.

While the temple is open from 10 am to 2 pm on regular days, it is open till 3 pm on Saturdays and Sundays.

Abhishekam is performed from 10.30 to 11 am everyday, followed by other poojas till 2 pm.

The Garuda Kola is a small bathing pond or kalyani in front of the temple while there is a bigger one locally known as Dodda Kola at a distance.

The temple is managed by the State Mujrai Department that took over it about 40 to 50 years back.

In fact, Mr Sathyanarayan says many people are not aware of this finest temple of architectural beauty due to lack of publicity. However, the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) is aware of the temple’s calendar of events and provides transport connectivity to devotees.

Every year, the Malavalli Depot of the KSRTC makes arrangements to ferry devotees from different parts of the district to the temple by running ‘jatra specials’ and ‘special schedules’.

Sharada

Tradition in modernity

E

ntering the Heritage City in the year 1984, Sharada Jewellers has left no stone unturned to bring every Mysoreans dream into reality.

Hailing from Kodagu, we have given a wide variety of traditional Kodava jewellery. To name a few are koka thathi, jomale, jodi kada, pathak, piri bale, paunchi and peecha katti.

Sharada Jewellers also specializes in the traditional Dakshina Kannada jewellery like the gejje addikke, karimani, kasha thali, gili vole, mallige moggu etc., not to forget the pride of the Heritage City they are also experts in making the Gandaberunda, simha kadaga, jede bille, jede bangara, hoovina kadaga, kuchhu etc.

Change is certain, so keeping in pace with the changing tastes and preferences of our customers in and around the city, we are bringing new and innovative designs in gold and diamond jewellery.

We have a wide collection of rubies, emeralds and blue sapphire jewellery. The scintillating collection of diamond jewellery, designed for everyday wear and special occasions, is provided with internationally recognized certification for diamonds with 100 per cent buy back guarantee.

Every piece of gold jewellery here is BIS hallmarked.

With our highly skilled artisans, we assure quality and the best artisanism to satisfy our customers. In brief, in the best tradition of Indian artisanism, beauty, glory and splendour, a marvel of the past, present and future blended together in jewellery.

Other places of tourist interest around Malavalli include the Anjaneya Swamy Temple at Muthathi, Gaganachukki and Bharachukki Falls, the Shivanasamudram Hydro Electric Power Station and the Ranganatha Swamy Temple at Shivanasamudra.

For further details, contact Mr Sathyanarayan – 08231242437

Travellers Choice • Dasara 2009 | 21 |

Feast for the senses Blessed with natural wealth and rich in breathtaking landscapes and an amazing variety of flora and fauna, the district of Chamarajanagar is a veritable feast for the senses.

C

hamarajanagar is a district in southern Karnataka bordering the Erode district of Tamil Nadu and the Wayanad district of Kerala. Chamarajanagar includes Chamarajanagar taluk, Yelandur, Kollegal and Gundlupet taluks.

Kannada is the main language in Chamarajanagar district though Tamil is also widely spoken.

Chamarajanagar has a very high population of forest-dwelling tribals - Soligas, Jenu Kurubas and Betta Kurubas. Most of these tribes inhabit the forests of Biligirirangana Hills (B

| 22 | Travellers Choice • Dasara 2009

R Hills), Malai Mahadeswara Hills and Bandipur National Park.

Chamarajanagar is rich in the religious sites of many communities.

The temple in the M M Hills (Malai Mahadeshwara Betta) attracts a lot of devotees. The district also has its share of natural beauty. The Chamarajanagar range of forests is one of the hottest biodiversity spots in the world and is home to an amazing number of 372 species of mammals, some of which are found only in these forests. Chamarajanagar is also home to a staggering 21 per cent of all known plant species.

Widespread hills, valleys, lush green and well spread grasslands.

Fast flowing rivers, rivulets, ponds, lakes and streams. Different kinds of forests like shola, evergreen, dry and deciduous. All these make up the breathtaking landscapes that one can see and feel in the Chamarajanagar range of forests. It is a visual treat and gives a unique experience time and again.

The Biligiriranga Hills The Biligiriranga range of hills is picturesquely situated between

Cauvery and Kapila Rivers. At a height of 5,091 ft above sea level, this hill stretches from north to south for about 16 km. A unique blend of wildlife sanctuary and hill station, B R Hills is a haven for a variety of wild animals and birds, making it a ‘must see’ for those who love the jungle in its pristine glory. Dawn is greeted by the chirping melody of birds, adding to the delightful experience, amidst a perfect jungle setting.

Malai Mahadeswara Hills The M M Hills is a temple town situated in the eastern part of Kollegal taluk in Chamarajanagar district. It is a very famous Shiva pilgrim centre. According to tradition, there are seven hills identified in the puranas as Anumale, Jenumale, Kanumale, Pachchemale, Pavalamale, Ponnachimale and Kongumale.

Apart from being a pilgrim centre,

M M Hills possesses natural beauty in the form of large tracts of forest area. The height of the hill is about 3,000 feet above sea level and is surrounded by 77 hills in the Eastern Ghats. The beautiful landscapes of hills and valleys are covered with extensive forests. These forest types vary from evergreen forests in Ponnachi Boli to dry deciduous forests in most other parts. M M Hills is bound by River Cauvery in the north-east and by River Palar in the south.

The forests of M M Hills are famous for the wonderful regeneration and stock of sandalwood and bamboo.

The forests are inhabited by a variety of animals, birds and reptiles. Gaurs (Indian Bison), sambars, spotted deer, jackals, sloth bears, porcupine, etc. are frequently spotted, apart from the rare sightings of tigers, leopards and wild dogs, in and around this area.

Bandipur National Park The Bandipur National Park supports a remarkable variety of flora and fauna, making it a veritable paradise for wildlife. In 1973, Bandipur became one of India’s first tiger reserves and the southern-most of the nine reserves specially established under Project Tiger. In 1974, it was declared as a National Park. The scrub jungles towards the eastern limits of the park consist of stunted trees, interspersed with bushes and open grassy patches.

Towards its north-western fringes, there is a gradual shift in vegetation from open dry deciduous forests to tropical mixed deciduous forests. These diverse habitats support an enormous diversity of animal life. Sprouting grass in the meadows and view lines attract elephants and the majestic gaur in large numbers. To watch the larger mammals in their natural surroundings, Bandipur is a paradise from April to October.

Travellers Choice • Dasara 2009 | 23 |

Nestled in the dense Bandipur forests, Himavad Gopalaswamy Betta, with its mesmerising scenic splendour, is a paradise for weekenders and trekkers alike.

Lord on the clouds at

misty heights E

very weekend, an array of cars zooming past the rugged roads across the dense hills of Bandipur forests is a common sight. Well, they are all headed to the picturesque Himavad Gopalaswamy Betta, in the midst of the dense deciduous forests of Western Ghats that is famed for its virgin flora and fauna.

Yes! Karnataka is credited with many beautiful locations and very few people would have visited this unique hill temple - Himavad Gopalaswamy. A visit to this temple on the hill is nothing short of a mesmerising experience.

It is also the highest peak in the Bandipur National Park. Dense fog predominates and covers the hills round the year. Hence the name Himavad, meaning filled with fog. The place is known for its scenic valleys, gorges and hills like Neeladri, Hamsadri, Garudadri, Pallava and Mallikarjunagiri.

| 24 | Travellers Choice • Dasara 2009

This place has much to offer to adventure seekers too, as a trek up this hill can be a thrilling experience with its rare flora and fauna. The place is also credited with a variety of medicinal plants.

Himavad Gopalaswamy Betta is located in Chamarajanagar District and lies in the core area of Bandipur National Park. It is about 220 km from Bangalore and 82 km from Mysore.

It is at 4,801 ft (1454 m) above sea level and is extensively wooded. After reaching Gundlupet from Mysore, a 10-km drive further down would lead to Hangala village. Turn to the right and drive for 4 km amidst golden yellow sunflower gardens dotted with tall coconut trees to reach the Gopalaswamy Betta Forest check post.

The entire area is ‘protected forest’ and is controlled by the Forest Department.

After paying the toll fee, the drive up the

hill for the next 7 km is an adventure as the roads are steep and narrow.

If lucky, you can even spot herds of deer and elephants moving around without a care in the world in the green canvas spread across a vast territory.

According to locals, tigers, leopards and bison are also spotted regularly in the early morning hours.

On your onward journey further up, the air becomes unbelievably cool and dense fog hits you, signifying your arrival at the temple doors atop the hill. Perumal Dandanayaka, a Chola viceroy, built the Gopalaswamy temple in 1315. Later, the maharajas of Mysore, who were ardent devotees of Lord Venugopala, displayed keen interest in maintaining the hill.

As the name of the hill goes, the temple on the hill is dedicated to Lord Gopalaswamy, which is one of the many names of Lord Krishna. The gopuram

consorts, Rukmini and Satyabhama.

Throughout the year, dew formation can be seen on top of the entrance of garbha gudi and on the left shoulders of Gopalaswamy - hence the name ‘Himavad’. The temperature inside the temple is also relatively cool.

According to chief priest Lakshmipathi Bhat, there are 77 theerthas or springs along the slopes of the hills within 25 km radius of the temple. The saying is that the crows, which took bath in these springs, turned into swans and hence there are no crows in Bandipur. About a kilometer away from the temple is a rock adjacent to a spring which is considered to be holy. General belief is that childless

birds chirping in the background for company.

On the hill is a government guest house, the building of which dates back to the British era, and was used by the Wodeyars of Mysore. Though there are a couple of rooms adjacent to the temple for visitors to stay, nobody is allowed to stay on the hill after 5.30 pm. The Jungle Lodges & Resorts runs a facility on Gundlupet-Bandipur highway, which could be the right choice to spend the night in.

Despite its scenic beauty, Gopalaswamy Betta is not the chosen destination of travellers who generally go to either Ooty or Kodaikanal for a holiday. However, those who are familiar

The direct bus from Bangalore leaves at 6:00 am to reach Gopalaswamy Betta by 11:00 am

of the temple is single-tiered and rests on the compound wall of the enclosure.

At the entrance of the temple, Jaya and Vijaya, the celestial guardians, welcome you. A dhwajastambha (flagpillar) and a bali-peetam (sacrificial altar) are there in the mukha mantapa (inner-porch). The parapet wall of the façade of the mukha mantapa contains the sculpture of dashavatara (the nine avatars of Vishnu) with the centre portion depicting Krishnaavatara (the avatar of Vishnu in which he appeared as Krishna). There is a shikhara tower over the garbha griha (sanctum sanctorum). The garbha griha contains a panel with an idol of Krisnha holding a flute under a tree. Krishna is flanked by his friends and the posture is that of dance, with the left big toe resting on the right one. In the panel are also shown milk sellers and cows. Lord Gopalaswamy’s idol is flanked by his

couples who worship the rock, consume water from the spring on an empty stomach and visit the Gopalaswamy temple to seek the Lord’s blessings will very soon be blessed with children.

According to Mr Bhat, water in the natural springs on the hill is in its purest form and hence ideal for consumption.

This water is also believed to have the goodness of 28 medicinal roots and minerals dissolved in it naturally. A lake, a few hundred feet below the peak, serves as the local watering hole for wildlife.

Apart from its religious significance, the place has a lot to offer for keen travellers out to explore the world. Huge mountains enveloped by greenery on all sides, amazing clusters of green and brown trees dotting the terrain, dew formation in pockets, pretty wild flowers in different colours... the scenic beauty of the place is breathtaking!

Often seen are groups of gaur grazing on the slopes with colourful

with the place visit regularly from the neighbouring towns of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Kerala states.

Though Gopalaswamy Betta has the potential to become an excellent tourist destination, continued neglect and official apathy has cost the place dear in terms of development. Absence of public transport is the main culprit as not all travellers can afford private vehicles. The KSRTC operates only one schedule on Saturdays from Gundlupet. The bus leaves at 10.30 am and is back by 2 pm.

Pack your own food if you are visiting this place, as there are no restaurants or shops on the hill. However, on advance request, tasty and sumptuous food is prepared and served by Mr Gopalakrishna Bhat. Though Mr Bhat does not ask visitors how much to pay, they generally consider it their duty to repay the courtesy extended to them in an unknown place.

Travellers Choice • Dasara 2009 | 25 |

The ancient temple dedicated to Lord Varahaswamy in Kalahalli, Mandya, is thronged by devotees wanting to find a solution to their land-related problems. However, this ancient temple, which shelters this spectacular idol, suffers monumental neglect.

Seeing is believing

the real god | 26 | Travellers Choice • Dasara 2009

A

cross the lush green sugarcane and paddy fields of Mandya District in Karnataka, a drive down rural Kalahalli in K R Pet taluk reveals its own saga - a place reminiscent of history, a temple that speak volumes of the grandeur of yesteryear and a beautiful idol in the picturesque settings of a riverbank.

Yes! Welcome to the gigantic Bhoo Varahaswamy or Pralaya Varaha Moorthi temple. An ancient, monolithic structure that stands alone on the backwaters of Krishna Raja Sagar Dam where Cauvery, Hemavathi and Laxman Thirtha rivers join to form sangama.

In fact, this place is one of the many lesser-known places in Karnataka that remain unnoticed. This marvelous Bhoo Varahaswamy or Pralaya Varaha Moorthi Temple is a case in point which is neglected for decades for reasons best known to powers-that-be.

This ancient temple does not have a recorded history of its own though locals say many things in many words.

The gigantic Pralaya Varaha Moorthi is 18 feet tall, carved out of a single black stone or saligrama shila with six-feet-tall Bhoodevi seated on his left thigh.

Little available information reveals that this temple was constructed by the Cholas about 1,000 years ago, though the locals claim the temple to be almost 2,500 years old. Further, according to locals, this place was originally known as Gautama Kshetram as this Pralaya Varaha Moorthi was the samputa moorthi (idol worshipped everyday and kept in olai petti) of Gautama rishi.

took over the temple about seven years ago and formed a Trust to oversee its administration. The Trust ensures regular pujas at the temple and has appointed Mr Vijay Bhattar as the priest. The temple is open on all days between 9 am and 5 pm for the benefit of devotees.

Right in front of the temple is a stone inscription, which may throw some light on the exact period of the temple and the rulers who were instrumental in constructing it. However, this inscription remains to be deciphered.

The idol of Lord Varaha Moorthi is endowed with shanku-chakra, Sudarshana chakra, Gayatri chakra, Padma chakra, Ashta Lakshmi pada and Navagraha pada.

Revathi is the star of Varaha Moorthi and abhishekam is performed once a month, on the day of the Revathi star.

In fact, 4-5 priests perform abhishekam to this gigantic idol, which almost takes 3 to 4 hours, says Mr Vijay Bhattar.

Popular belief is that Varaha Moorthi represents land and is sarva dosha nivaraka (one who frees people from all ill-effects). According to Mr Vijay Bhattar, Lord Varaha symbolises land as he rescued the earth from pralaya and by worshipping him all land-related problems will be solved.

Devotees generally visit the temple to

seek his blessings and to solve any land-related problems.

Those constructing new houses bring bricks meant for construction and get the puja done. Devotees also visit the temple for navagraha homa.

Another popular puja at the temple is the homa done to neutralise rahu dosha, when people perform the homa and gift urad dal.

However, this temple is not known to many and hence only about 20 to 25 people visit the temple on weekdays and about 50 over the weekend.The annual fair of the temple is celebrated in May every year, on Varaha Jayanthi, when over 3,000 people from neighbouring villages participate.

There are two routes to reach Kalahalli. It is 40 km from Mysore via KRS and about 60 km from Mandya via Pandavapura, Chinakurali and Bhookanakere. The roads on both the routes are bad, especially from Chinakulali to Kalahalli. The government has made no efforts to repair this small but significant road.

Driving on this road is a Herculean task and it is a real miracle if one reaches the temple without a flat tyre. Pack your own foodstuff if you want to visit this place, as nothing is available in Kalahalli.

In fact, once upon a time, Kalahalli was a Brahmin agrahara where the community worshipped Lord Varaha Swamy. When the Krishnaraja Sagar Dam was constructed, Kalahalli was displaced and the temple was submerged in the backwaters of Cauvery.

While the displaced people were relocated elsewhere, the temple remained submerged in the water for many years. During the course of time, while canals and irrigation systems developed, water levels receded gradually and the temple started reappearing on the mainland. Once again, the worship of Varaha Swamy started but the pujas were irregular.

However, the Perikal Mutt of Mysore

Those who wish to visit this temple may contact: Vijay Bhattar: 08230-266109 or Srinivas Raghavan, the president of the Trust: 9448011535

Travellers Choice • Dasara 2009 | 27 |

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| 28 | Travellers Choice • Dasara 2009

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Travellers Choice • Dasara 2009 | 29 |

A trek Trekking up the picturesque Chamundi Hills in the early hours of the day is a pleasure that has to be experienced.

The calm and quiet of the surroundings and the variety of flora and fauna on the way up the hill make the trek a wonderful experience, writes Ashok Uchangi.

U

ndoubtedly, Mysore is the most ‘favoured holiday destination’ of tourists visiting Karnataka. The Heritage City offers a wide variety of tourist spots to suit every taste. Of the many places of tourist interest in Mysore is Chamundi Hills.

A ‘must’ on any tourist’s itinerary, Chamundi Hills is famous for its natural picturesque beauty. The ancient temple with its mythological background and Goddess Chamundeshwari’s sacred powers attract and mesmerise devotees.

The beautiful road leading to Chamundi Hills from Mysore resembles the movement of a serpent. For the convenience of tourists and visitors, there are regular buses to Chamundi Hills from Mysore once every 30 minutes.

It is indeed an experience travelling

| 30 | Travellers Choice • Dasara 2009

in the bus to witness the picturesque hills in its different colourful dimensions.

As the bus passes through curves and bends, the mountain looks anew to the delight of

nature lovers.

However, climbing the hill on foot is a different experience

up the hill altogether. A flight of 800 steps takes one to a huge Nandi carved out of a monolithic black granite block. This stone idol which is 15 ft tall and 24 ft in length was sculpted during the reign of Doddadevaraja Wodeyar. In fact, the king was also credited for the construction of the 1,000 stone slab steps for the convenience of devotees visiting the hills for the darshan of Goddess Chamundi.

More recently, the government has developed a beautiful park adjacent to the Nandi idol, which is an ideal location to see Mysore City from atop Chamundi Hills. This park, built in half-an-acre plot, comprises a variety of decorative flowering plants and trees that add colour to the hills.

Atop the hill is a small town that houses a number of temples.

The main temple deity is Goddess Chamundeshwari who killed demon Mahishasura. The sanctum sanctorum of the temple is ancient, while the tower

of the temple was renovated in the 19th century.

Two other prominent 12th century temples on the hill are the Mahabala Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and the Lakshminarayana Temple. These were constructed by Hoysala King Vishnuvardhana.

The beauty of Chamundi Hills in the early hours of the day is remarkable. As most devotees come to the hill only after 9 am, early birders can enjoy the peace and quiet of the hills almost undisturbed.

Following the early morning life on the hill, arrival of devotees and

the activity in the premises of the temple are in itself a unique experience. Never forget to carry your camera along to retain those memories for ever.

If you opt to trek up the hill, you can even see a variety of wildlife on the way to the hill. Prominent among the wildlife sighted are leopards, jungle cats, wild boar, monkeys, bonnet monkeys, jackal, fox and over 20 varieties of birds.

The hill, spread over 700 hectares, is also home to varieties of medicinal plants that are identified and preserved.

The government’s proposal to declare Chamundi Hills as a ‘reserve forest area’ and stop encroachments on the hill is a welcome step. It is the duty of one and all to preserve and conserve this picturesque hill.

Travellers Choice • Dasara 2009 | 31 |

Dancing for the seasons Among the most popular folk dance forms are Veeragase and Kamsale Nritya, performed during the months of Shravana and Karthika across Karnataka.

Based on Hindu mythology, these folk dance forms celebrate the valour of Lord Veerabhadra.

V

eeragase is a form of folk dance popular in Mysore.

It is a vigorous dance based on Hindu mythology, involving very intense, energy-sapping dance movements. This dance is performed during festivals in the Hindu months of Shravana and Karthika and during the Dasara procession in Mysore. On the other hand, Beesu Kamsale is another folk dance form where dancers sing in praise of Lord Male Mahadeshwara or Shiva.

Veeragase is a popular folk dance, depicting the heroism and valour of Lord Veerabahadhra. Veeragase got its name from the Hindu legendary warrior Veerabhadra. According to a legend, Lord Shiva was married to Dakshayini, whose father Daksha was against this marriage and hence bore enmity with Shiva. When he performed a yagna, he invited all the gods except Shiva.

Much against Shiva's wishes, Dakshayini went to the yagna uninvited and was insulted by Daksha. Unable to bear the insult, Dakshayini jumped into the sacrificial fire.

On hearing this, an enraged Shiva started performing the Tandava Nritya, creating turmoil in the world. When one of Shiva’s sweat drops fell on the earth, it gave rise to the warrior Veerabhadra, who went to Daksha's yagna, disrupted it and killed Daksha. When Daksha's wife pleaded mercy, he was given back his life. This story is narrated by dancers performing Veeragase.

Performers The performers of Veeragase are Lingadevaru devotees of Shiva who sport a white, turbanlike headgear, wear kaavi coloured dhotis, rudraksha mala, nagabharanas and a wooden plaque of Lord Veerabhadra on their chest. They also smear their forehead, ears and eyebrows with vibhooti. Sporting an unsheathed sword in the right hand and a wooden plaque of Veerabhadra in

| 32 | Travellers Choice • Dasara 2009

the left hand, these dancers perform a martial dance to the beat of karadi and chamala drums.

The dance troupe usually consists of two, four or six members. A lead singer in the troupe narrates the story of Daksha yagna as the dance is being performed. A huge decorative pole called nandikolu, which has an orange flag on the top, is held by one of the dancers. Traditional percussion instruments called sambal and dimmu lend music to the dance.

Cymbals and shehnai and other instruments like karadi and chamala are also used. The dance also involves the ritualistic piercing of a needle across the mouth.

Beesu Kamsale or Kamsale Nritya It is a group dance form performed by the menfolk in villages around Mysore, Nanjanagudu, Kollegala and Bangalore areas.

It is named after the kamsale that is used both as an instrument and also as a prop by the dancers themselves. The kamsale comprises a cymbal in one hand and a bronze disc in the other and is used to produce a rhythmic clang.

The Kamsale Nritya is closely connected to a tradition of Male Mahadeshwara or Shiva worship by the Haalu Kuruba community. Most of the Beesu Kamsale dancers are drawn from this community. In Beesu Kamsale, dancers perform to rhythmic and melodious music that is sung in praise of Lord Male Mahadeshwara or Shiva. The dance is a part of a deeksha or oath and is taught by a teacher or spiritual leader.

This art form was showcased prominently in Kannada movies like Janumada Jodi and Jogi where the protagonist is a kamsale dancer.

Flowery

path R

oads have a prominent role to play in making our travel experience pleasant. In fact, travelling is fun when roads are well laid. Till recently, most roads leading to prominent tourist spots were potholeridden. But, of late, most of these bad roads have been repaired and some have been newly laid out, making travellers heave a sigh of relief.

In fact, it is no exaggeration to call the Bangalore-Mysore and the Mysore-Madikeri roads ‘flower paths’ as innumerable plants with colourful flowers dot long stretches of the median separating the double roads. Not only are these plants and flowers a treat to our senses, but also add to the fun of travelling.

- Ashok Uchangi

Travellers Choice • Dasara 2009 | 33 |

Wil d outings There is a great deal more to Mysore than palaces. Just hit the city and explore the many wildlife reserves around.

M

ysore, to this day, remains refreshingly antique, despite its proximity to Bangalore, its closest neighbour on the fast track. A visit to Mysore can actually take you places, literally. Apart from the many spots of tourist interest dotting the city are numerous bird and wildlife sanctuaries around. Travelling west from Mysore will take you to the heart of Western Ghats with its fabulous nature and wildlife reserves.

The Mysore wildlife route begins with the Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary, just 18 km away from Mysore. This sanctuary comprises a group of six islets on River Cauvery and is a haven for birds owing to its abundance of insects and fish. A boat ride at the

| 34 | Travellers Choice • Dasara 2009

sanctuary offers a colourful view of birds like the little and large cormorant, night heron, snake bird, white ibis, great stone plovers, spoon bills and so on.

Staying overnight at riverside cottages will maximise the wild experience.

A visit to this bird sanctuary can be coupled with a visit to the historic town of Srirangapattana, just 14 km away from Mysore, which has the famous fort and a splendid temple, both of which are worth visiting.

Another wildlife reserve in the backyard of Mysore is the Nagarhole Game Sanctuary, just 93 km away from the historic city. Constituted in 1955, this game sanctuary comprises Arikeri,

Hatgat and Nalkeri reserve forests and is spread over an area of 673 sq. km. A portion of these great forests, Kakanakote, was the exclusive hunting reserve of the erstwhile maharajas of Mysore.

Nagarhole is home to many endangered animals and birds including tigers, panthers, elephants, chital, sambar, sloth bear, jungle fowl, partridge, and so on.

Completing the wild circuit of Mysore is the Bandipur National Park, just 80 km south of Mysore. This wildlife reserve is flanked by the Nagarhole Park in the north-west, the Mudumalai Sanctuary of Tamil Nadu in the south and the Wynad Sanctuary of Kerala in the south-west, and is famed for its rich

flora and fauna.

Where to stay Either at government-run guest houses in Nagarhole and Bandipur, the bookings for which have to be done well in advance. If not, Mysore has plenty of hotels to suit every budget.

If blessed with a fat wallet, then there are numerous resorts with exotic cottages, owned by private operators.

What to buy Articles fashioned out of sandalwood, silks, handicrafts and incense.

Travellers Choice • Dasara 2009 | 35 |

From Shivalli to

Singapore At a time when quality food at an affordable cost on highways is a rarity, Shivalli Restaurant on the Bangalore-Mysore Highway comes as a surprise. A wide variety of delicacies that are fingerlicking good speaks for the popularity of this food court among travellers and holidaymakers alike.

I

t is the preferred food court of Aishwarya Rai and Maniratnam. A host of Kannada film personalities like Ravichandran, Dwarakish, Prem, Ramya too frequent the place while stage artist Master Hirannayya and Kannada poet laureate K S Narasimhaswamy are all praise for its delicious food. Arun Shourie and scion of the Mysore Royal family, Srikantadatta Narasimharaja Wodeyar, are a few notables in its esteemed guest list.

Welcome to Shivalli Restaurant, the most popular destination for quality food on the Bangalore-Mysore Highway. Quality food on highways at an affordable cost is an extreme necessity for people who travel regularly. Thanks to petroleum companies, many food joints have sprung up in their vicinity on the highways. However, there is still a lot to be done to fulfill the food needs of hungry travellers on many highways.

| 36 | Travellers Choice • Dasara 2009

Realising the importance of ‘healthy food on highways’, Girish Kalkur and Umesh, friends for four decades and regular travellers to Mysore, hit upon the idea of opening a restaurant somewhere in the middle of the highway for the benefit of travellers.

Thus came into existence the Shivalli Restaurant, popularly known as MTR Shivalli, in 1998.

With an investment of Rs 10 lakh, the restaurant was started, but not without facing initial setbacks. At the time of its opening, the conversion of the Bangalore-Mysore Highway into a double road was in full swing and for the first two years Shivalli Restaurant had to incur losses due to lack of traffic.

However, both the partners sustained losses and without compromising on quality, everyday fresh food was prepared and kept ready for customers.

Incidentally, Girish, who is by

profession a civil engineer who has completed his Masters degree in engineering from the BMS Engineering College, Bangalore, had experience and exposure to food business.

For some time, he was supervising preparations in MTR Foods owned by his maternal uncle Sadanand Mayya.

Though Shivalli Restaurant is in no way connected to MTR Group, Sadanand Mayya guided preparations and ingredients here.

Today, Shivalli is the delight of travellers, weekenders and holiday makers who visit the place for a variety of South Indian delicacies, besides lunch and dinner, at an affordable cost. “Over 500 to 600 people visit the restaurant daily on an average while the numbers double on weekends,” says Girish.

The locational advantage of Shivalli is also a reason to reckon with.

and Sharavan Bhavan, there are no Mysore-style hotels in Singapore. This makes it all the more important for us to think of opening this restaurant,” he says. The partners have proposed to invest over Rs 2-3 crore in their Singapore venture.

Besides, they are also looking for setting up a restaurant in the Heritage City of Mysore, as they conceive that Mysore offers a lot of potential for tourism once the airport opens.

“Tourism will definitely pick up in Mysore,” says Girish.

“Positioned exactly equidistant from Bangalore and Mysore on the highway, Shivalli is ideal for many either to take a break for breakfast or to relish hot dinner while on their return journey.

However, their immediate launch will be a restaurant in Gandhinagar, Bangalore which was opened last

month. “This 100-seater restaurant, situated in the central area of Majestic, is the most favoured destination for many,’’ says Girish.

However, Shivalli is reluctant to undertake outside catering business as they fear business in big volumes may affect quality. Besides, this requires a lot of personal involvement and attention, says Girish. In short, as Girish says, ‘food business is good business’ only if quality at an affordable cost is maintained.

For the delight of travellers, Shivalli is sure to offer many more attractions in the days to come.

Enthused by the success of the decade-old struggle, Shivalli is set for expansion, both within and outside. As Girish says, “We have acquired the adjacent five-acre plot to construct a food court and set up other facilities like rest rooms, toilets and children’s play area of international standards in a dust-free environment.” What is more, all this will come free of cost and visitors will not be charged extra for availing these facilities.

Notable among their expansion plans is a proposal to set up a South Indian restaurant in Singapore.

According to Girish, currently the plan is held up due to recession but they have already identified 2-3 properties in Singapore for the same. “Demand for South Indian food is increasing in Singapore and except for Mururan Idli

Girish & Umesh, the men behind Shivalli Restaurant

Travellers Choice • Dasara 2009 | 37 |

Kanakagiri, renowned as a famous spiritual centre for the Jains, is also an important tourist spot, writes Sudha.

Footprints on the

rocks of faith K

anakagiri, also called Kanakadri, is Nakopamana Shaila (heavenly hill) to devout Jains. With ancient basadis, cave shrines, holy paduka mantapas (footprints cells) and greenery all around the rapturous rocky terrain, Kanakagiri is surely a blissful hillock.

The place once best known for its sandalwood and honeycomb, Kanakagiri is located near village Maleyur in Chamarajanagar district.

A famous spiritual centre for Jains, Kanakagiri is also known to be an important tourist spot in Karnataka. It

| 38 | Travellers Choice • Dasara 2009

is about an hour’s journey from Mysore (50 km).

As you go up Kanakagiri, treading a flight of about 250 steps leading to the main temple, you can see numerous arches and square-shaped samadhi mantapas (cells) built in seriatim up the hillock. These sacred mantapas house the padukas (foot-prints) worshipped as Charana Paduke of poojya Jain munis. There are 24 such mantapas called Jeenakutas for all the 24 Jain saints or Thirthankaras. Very close to the 24th (last) mantapa is a four-faced shila stambha (pillar) dedicated to Sri

Parshwanatha.

The holy Parshwanatha Basadi is the main attraction of Kanakagiri.

Built during the reign of Ganga dynasty in the 6th century, the basadi has the pooja deities of Bhagavan Parshwanath, Goddesses Padmavathi and Amrakushmandini. The hoysala king, visiting Kanakagiri after his war victory, named the hill deity as Vijaya Parshwanathaswamy.

Devotees from all over come on a pilgrimage to Kanakagiri, seeking relief from their kalasarpadosha, which is said to be caused by the inauspicious

planetary positions of Rahu and Ketu.

In order to get rid of kalasarpadosha, believers of all faiths have been known to offer special poojas to the powerful deities of Padmavathi and Amrakushmandini at the hill temple in Kanakagiri.

Beside the hill temple (basadi) are many caves with numerous inscriptions and edicts of historical and religious significance.

The cave where Nagarjuna was under penance and the “Dharmachakra” pillar are also located near the basadi. All the holy footprint cells (Jeenalayas) were built here by Nagarjuna, the nephew

of revered Jain muni Shri Pujyapada, who sanctified Kanakagiri some 15 centuries ago.

The fifth century saint, Acharya Pujyapada, had written extensively on Jain philosophy and Ayurvedic medicine. According to scriptures, after long years of penance and spiritual sadhana at Kankagiri, Sri Pujyapada attained samadhi on the hillock. Atop Kanakagiri is a large Samadhi Mantapa dedicated to Acharya Pujyapada.

At the foothill is the ancient Jain math which runs an orphanage and an Ayurvedic hospital located beside the math. Tourists and devotees can make

advance reservations for cottages and rooms available at the math premises.

For details, contact: Sri Kshetra Kanakagiri Jain Math, Maleyur - 571 128, Chamaraja-nagar district Ph: 9108226 –296786/ 296809

Getting there Kanakagiri is about an hour’s drive from Mysore via Nanjangud. Maleyur (one km from Kanakagiri) can be conveniently reached from Mysore, Nanjangud and also from the district centre of Chamarajanagar.

Travellers Choice • Dasara 2009 | 39 |

cuisine Maavinakaayi Chitranna

Maavinakaayi Chitranna (Raw Mango Rice) is the traditional cuisine of Karnataka. It is usually made on festivals and other special occasions. This dish tastes best when the mango is tangy.

Ingredients: •

1 raw mango

•

1/2 cup coconut, grated

•

1-2 tsp menthya kaalu/methi seeds

•

2-3 dry red chillies

•

A pinch of hing

•

1 cup rice

•

2-3 tbsp peanuts

•

1 tbsp chana - urad dal mixture

•

2-3 tsp oil

•

3-4 curry leaves

•

1 tsp mustard seeds

•

Salt to taste

Method: Cook the rice in a cooker and allow it to cool by spreading it out on a plate. Once it has cooled, add salt and a spoon of oil to the rice.

Peel and grate the raw mango.

Dry roast red chillies, methi seeds, hing and powder them in a blender. Grind it along with grated coconut.

Add half the quantity of grated raw mango while grinding. Do not add water while grinding.

Heat oil in a kadai; add mustard, urad dal, red chillies, groundnuts, hing and turmeric powder.

Add the remaining grated raw mango and cook for a while until all the water evaporates. Add the above prepared masala and cook for about 2 mins. Add salt and mix well.

Add cooked rice to the above chutney and serve hot!!

| 40 | Travellers Choice • Dasara 2009

MYSORE DELICACIES

Jackfruit Pappad

Ingredients: •

1 can raw jackfruit

•

250 gm fresh chana dal

•

1/4 cup jeera (cumin seeds)

•

1/2 tsp black peppercorn

•

1/2 tsp cloves

•

3 cinnamon sticks

•

1/2 a stick ginger

•

1 piece garlic clove

•

2 big onions

•

1 medium sized red dry chilly

•

1 green chili

•

1-2 (as per taste) cilantro

•

1-2 tsp water

•

Salt to taste

Method: Peel and chop the jackfruit.

Boil jackfruit pieces in water along with half an onion, green and red chillies, channa dal, ginger, garlic, jeera, cloves, peppercorn, cinnamon and salt.

Simmer till the jackfruit is tender and then let the liquid evaporate completely.

Grind to a fine paste in a blender/food processor.

Remove the spices that are difficult to grind.

Mix the remaining onion (chopped fine) and cilantro.

Add a little cayenne pepper if it’s not spicy enough.

Mix well and then make small flat patties.

Let it dry in the sun for about a day. When the papads are completely dry and have become crisp, cool them to room temperature and store in air tight containers.

These can then either be deep fried in oil or baked in the oven till they turn golden brown.

Mysore Bajji

Masala Dosa Ingredients For Dosa •

2 cup rice - preferably parboiled

•

1/2 cup split and husked Black Gram (Dhuli Urad) soaked with rice for 5-6 hours

•

1/2 tsp fenugreek Seeds

•

Oil to smear the pan for making the dosas

•

2 tsp salt

For Masala

Mysore Bajji is a hot favourite with everyone.

Preferred especially for breakfast, Mysore Bajji is also liked as a snack in the old Mysore region.

This tempting bite is also filling and yummy when accompanied with chutneys.

•

500 gm or 3 cup potatoes - boiled, peeled and cubed

•

1 1/2 cup onions - sliced not very thin

•

1/4 tsp turmeric

•

2-3 green chillies chopped coarsely (optional)

•

6-7 curry leaves or 1/2 tsp dried curry leaves

Ingredients •

4 cup all purpose flour

•

2 tbsp oil

•

6 tsp rice flour

•

•

2 onions

1 tsp mustard seeds

•

10 green chillies (chopped)

•

2 tsp salt

•

20 cashew nuts (broken)

•

1/2 cup water

•

1 tsp cumin seeds

•

2 inch ginger finely chopped

Method

•

1/2 tsp baking soda

•

Coriander leaves

•

Fresh coconut (chopped to small pieces)

•

Salt to taste

•

Sour curd (as required)

•

Oil to fry

Method Mix both the all purpose flour and rice flour along with curds till smooth (without any lumps).

Make a loose dough and allow it to soak for 3 - 4 hours.

Mix all the remaining ingredients.

Heat oil in a kadai or a deep fry pan.

Make medium-sized balls with the dough and fry them in the oil till honey brown.

Place on a paper towel to drain excess oil.

Serve hot with spicy mint chutney or enjoy with peanut chutney.

Grind the dal mixture together to a very smooth consistency. Add salt and enough water to give it a dropping consistency. Allow it to ferment for about 5-6 hours, till a little spongy.

Heat the tawa, and brush oil over it. When really hot, splash a little water and immediately pour batter onto it, spreading it thin, with a circular motion. This will have to be very swift and will need a bit of practice.

After spreading the batter, lower the heat and dribble a little oil around the edges so that it seeps under the dosa. When edges start browning a bit, pass a flat spoon under it to ease the dosa off the pan.

Put the desired filling in the centre and fold the two edges over. Serve accompanied with sambhar and chutney

For the Masala Filling Heat the oil in a heavy based pan and add mustard seeds, onions, curry leaves and green chillies, and sauté over high heat till the onions are a little transparent.

Add salt and turmeric and mix well before adding the potatoes. Turn the potatoes around till well mixed and add the water and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.

Travellers Choice • Dasara 2009 | 41 |

Get smart with your money!

Currency is one of the most important parts of any trip. Here are some tips on where best to draw your money from to help your well earned dollar travel that bit further.

ATM Machines

A

s carrying large amounts of cash or even travellers’ cheques can be risky and even slightly nerve racking, it is not recommended.

Instead, it is much safer and easier to use the ATM machines that are to be found all over the world, even on small idyllic islands. When you use an ATM machine in a foreign country you will normally be charged a small fee, so it is worthwhile checking with your bank what that fee is as some may not charge if you use an ATM at a bank in its own network. For example, some accounts at HSBC in Hong Kong don’t charge any fee as long as the machine you are withdrawing money from is part of HSBC, even if it is in another country.

When you use an ATM machine in a foreign country, the money dispensed will be in the local currency and the exchange rate is often even better than the rates you would get from a local bank or regular currency exchange shop.

However, there are some restrictions on using ATM machines, and each bank will have its own rules and regulations. For example, in Thailand you can only withdraw a limited amount from most machines at any one time; this amount is normally around 20,000 Baht or so. There may also be limitations on the amount you can withdraw from your own bank in your home country. So, checking with them helps.

Of course, it should go without saying that the same precautions you use at home, such as checking that

| 42 | Travellers Choice • Dasara 2009

nobody is watching you when you are entering the PIN number, or checking that the machine or card slot has not been fiddled with, applies no matter where you are using the ATM.

For the safe use of your ATM cards: We recommend travellers to use their ATM cards to get cash when in a foreign country because, more often than not, it is the most efficient, fastest and the least costly way of obtaining foreign currency when you need it.

Using your ATM and credit cards does have risks, not just in Asia but the world over, and travellers should always be wary when using them in order to avoid unwanted problems.

There are things to look out for when using your cards to ensure you do not become a victim: •

Never ever give out your security number on the phone, unless you are 100% certain who you are talking to. If someone calls you and claims to be from your bank or credit card company, ring them back on their general number (not the number the caller gives

you) to make sure they really are who they say they are before you give out any details.

•

When using an ATM machine, always make sure there is nobody loitering around suspiciously. If there is somebody moving around suspiciously, use another ATM machine. If you feel someone is standing too close to you while you type in your PIN number, ask them to step back, and always make sure you try and hide as best you can the number you are entering.

• Always check the ATM machine carefully before you use it. If there is anything about the AT M machine which

seems a little strange, then don’t use it. This includes carefully checking the slot where you insert the card, and making sure there are no hidden cameras anywhere.

needs a little more work than safeguarding your ATM PIN number and card, because unlike the ATM card you do have to give your card to someone else, and that is where problems may begin.

One ATM scam going around the world at the moment is where people add what is known as a skimmer to the front of the ATM machine where you insert the card. They then stay near by and the details you enter into the machine are electronically transmitted to them. At the same time, a wireless camera is disguised to look like a leaflet holder and is mounted in a position to view your ATM PIN number.

Once the process is complete, they simply need to make a card with the information they gained and they can then use it at any ATM machine just as you would.

In fact, credit card fraud is extremely serious and almost impossible to safeguard against almost 100%. It is also very closely linked to an even more serious problem - identity theft.

Another is where people put a clear plastic sleeve into the card slot. Unsuspecting users then insert their card but the machine is unable to read the strip (because of the sleeve) and so the machine keeps asking the user to re-enter the password. After a while, the user gives up thinking the machine has swallowed the card. What has actually happened is the ATM card is inside the sleeve and someone has managed to see the number you entered.

From there they simply remove the card from the sleeve and use your account! The best way to avoid this is to run your finger along the slot. If you feel any prongs or bumps, then don’t use that machine.

•

Remember that all someone needs is your number.

Of course, a little more information is sometimes required but problems can begin with just a credit card number so the first guide to safety is ensuring you stay with your card at all times, and watch how it is used. This can be difficult to do, but it really is the only way to help prevent the loss of your card details.

•

Keep details of your credit card, the number, security number, date of expiry, etc. somewhere safe and separate from your wallet, and keep a copy of this information when you travel. Also, make a note of emergency telephone numbers that credit card companies offer in case your card is lost or stolen. Check if they have a local office in the destination you are travelling to.

If your card is lost or stolen, call the company immediately to report it.

These stories of using your credit cards and ATM cards are not meant to scare you from using them. We hope they encourage you to use them more carefully.

• When using the credit card online, always ensure that the website is reputable, and that the website uses some form of SSL security which is normally visible by a little padlock appearing in the bottom right of Internet Explorer. The page may also start with https:// instead of the regular http://

Credit Cards One obvious way to avoid carrying wads of cash around when travelling is to use your credit card. Whether you use VISA, MasterCard or American Express, you will be able to make purchases and benefit from the policies, such as reward points, guarantees, insurance, etc. that your card may offer.

•

Safeguard receipts and destroy carbon copies. This may seem over the top but we actually recommend keeping the receipts in a safe place so you can accurately compare them with the statements you receive and shred the rest. Shredders are affordable and help to ensure that any confidential information is quite literally shredded. People committing credit card fraud and identity theft often rummage through dustbins and letter boxes.

•

Don’t give out any details about anything to anyone who has called you. If you know the company, ring them back on the general number to make sure that the person calling truly does work for that company.

•

Always check the amount twice while signing.

Anyone can make a mistake, be it intentionally or by accident.

•

Always check your billing statement promptly to check there are no suspicious charges. If there are any, report immediately to the credit card company.

•

Insist on people using a machine you recognise because skimmers are now available that allow people to copy all your card details in seconds. If in doubt, use cash.

On your travels, you will however find that some cards are a lot more welcome than others. The main reason for this is the amount the credit card companies charge merchants, which puts them off accepting the card or offer to pass those charges on to you by increasing the price!

The credit card companies say that asking the consumer to pay a surcharge is against their policies and if reported that merchant will be removed from the network. The main problem with this practice seems to be with American Express which, while it does offer travellers some excellent bonuses and benefits, is not, or at least does not seem to be the most popular credit card among merchants in Asia.

For example, in Hong Kong it is quite difficult to find many restaurants that accept the card.

So, while carrying your credit card on your travels will help, it is not all smooth sailing, and cash is still very much in demand.

For the safe use of your Credit cards: Credit cards are also the target of unscrupulous people who want something for nothing. Using credit cards safely

Happy travelling!

Travellers Choice • Dasara 2009 | 43 |

Say ‘goodbye’ to acidity

Troubled by acidity? Here are some home remedies to free you from that bloated feeling.

A

• Consumption of milk and milk products.

cidity refers to the excess secretion of acid by the gastric glands of the stomach. Our stomachs secrete hydrochloric acid that is responsible for the proper functioning of the digestive system. This acid further secretes various digestive enzymes like pepsin that break the food particles for easy digestion. A normal level of acid is required in the stomach for proper digestion of the complex foods. When there is less secretion of acid the food is not digested properly and in case of excess secretion it gives rise to a condition known as acidity.

• Intake of fresh mint juice on a regular basis.

Refined and fibreless food is the main cause of acidity.

•

Stress is the other main cause.

•

Smoking and excess consumption of alcohol tend to weaken the nervous system, as a result the mucus membrane and the stomach lining stop functioning properly.

•

High intake of spicy food, overeating and eating hurriedly also lead to acidity.

Home remedies for acidity •

Sucking on a piece of clove..

| 44 | Travellers Choice • Dasara 2009

•

• Taking a mixture of two teaspoons of apple cider vinegar and two teaspoons of honey in a glass of water before meals will reduce the chances of acidity.

Causes of acidity •

acidity and are good natural remedies for acidity.

•

Another effective acidity cure is to boil cumin seeds in a glass of water and drink it with meals.

•

Avoiding the intake of spicy food, fried food and pickles.

•

Unripe fruits with high pectin content should also be avoided.

•

Fruits like watermelon, banana and cucumber reduce

The consumption of herbal tea containing spearmint (pudina) and liquorice (mulethi) is also beneficial instead of normal tea, coffee and other aerated drinks.

• Drinking water early in the morning controls acidity as water is a good neutralizer for acid.

• Early to bed and early to rise makes a man healthy, wealthy and wise is an old and highly beneficial phrase.

This good habit will prevent and control acidity.

•

Two teaspoonfuls of white vinegar taken along with meals will help in proper food digestion and also controls acidity.

•

Frequent use of medicines like aspirin or disprin should be avoided.

•

Sucking on 10 gm of jaggery after meals will prevent acid formation.

• Drinking cabbage juice daily also prevents acidity.

• Raw salad of vegetables like onion and radish should be avoided.

This is not a good diet for acidity.

•

It’s always better to have dinner at least two hours before going to bed.

•

Drinking coconut water 3-4 times a day also prevents acidity.

• Eating yogurt will provide immediate relief from acidity.

• Drinking a glass of water with a teaspoon of soda is also beneficial.

• Intake of 1-2 tablespoons of white vinegar.

•

Ginger is a spice well known for its gastrointestinal benefits. Take a small piece of ginger and convert it into pulp and add this to an equal amount of coriander.

Mix both of them properly and consume it.

Symptoms of acidity The main symptoms of acidity are Heartburn and Dyspepsia.

Heartburn is characterised by a deeply placed, burning pain in the chest behind the breast-bone. It occurs after meals and is precipitated by increase in intra-abdominal pressure like straining or lifting weights. It is more common at night when a person is lying down. Heartburn is usually relieved when the person sits up. Regurgitation of the gastric contents may also occur. The symptoms of ulcers are mainly pain that can be either localised or diffused. Sometimes it radiates to the back or to the chest.

Dyspepsia is a burning or an aching pain in the upper abdomen, sometimes described as a stabbing sensation penetrating through the gut. In rare cases there may be no pain, but only a feeling of indigestion, fullness, bloating, flatulence or nausea. When the cause is a duodenal ulcer, having a meal usually relieves the pain. But in the case of a gastric ulcer, there may be no change, or the pain may become worse after eating. Peptic ulcer disease can sometimes occur without symptoms. Symptoms may also arise when there is no ulcer present, which is known as non-ulcer dyspepsia.

Specific tests for the diagnosis of acidity While a doctor may be able to diagnose a simple case of acidity from the medical history available, more detailed investigations may be necessary to detect the presence of ulcers in the stomach and the duodenum.

The doctor will take a detailed history of the use of drugs such as NSAIDs, a history of family members with ulcers, alcohol consumption and smoking to determine the causes of acidity.

An assessment of a person’s stress level is also important to reach a diagnosis.

A doctor may request an Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopy to detect the presence of ulcers.

Treatment for acidity or ulcer •

The most important part of the treatment of acidity is to identify and avoid causative factors like foods that are spicy, salty and acidic.

•

Smoking and alcohol consumption should be stopped.

•

Avoiding stress and modification of lifestyle may prove very helpful in the treatment of acidity and ulcers, particularly in those with a nervous and emotional disposition and people involved in high-stress jobs.

•

Antacids can provide immediate relief by neutralising the excess acid secreted.

•

A group of drugs called H2 Receptor Blockers cause the stomach to produce less acid by blocking histamine.

•

Another group of drugs called the Proton Pump Inhibitors selectively disables a mechanism in acid-making cells, thus stopping acid production.

•

Surgical methods are sometimes used to control acid secretion.

Travellers Choice • Dasara 2009 | 45 |

FEEDBACK FORM Commuters are requested to fill this form and give their valuable suggestions for further improvement of our services 1. PART 1 : PERSONAL DETAILS 1.1 Name -

____________________________________________________

1.2 Age & Date of Birth - 1.3 Sex

-

_______________________________________

_____________________________

1.4 Occupation (specify) ____________________________________ 1.5 Income - In which

range is your income?

< 10,000 10,000-15,000 15,000-20,000 > 20,000

5 5 5 5

1.6 Do you own a vehicle?

Yes 5

No 5

1.7 If yes to 1.6, Specify whether

a car or TW and How many of them? __________________________________________________ 1.8 Your anniversary date - __________________________________________________ 1.9 your email ID - __________________________________________________ 2. PART 2 : TRIP DETAILS 2.1 Origin (Coming from?)

____________________________________________

2.2 Destination (Going to?)

____________________________________________

2.3 Distance travelled to reach

__________ Km

2.4 Is either of these bus stands near to your home?

Origin 5

Destination 5

2.5 Mode - How did you reach this bus stop?

Walk 5

Cycle 5

Two wheeler 5

Auto 5

Car 5

Taxi 5

Pvt Bus 5

Others 5

2.6 How frequently do you travel?

Multiple times a day- ____ times

Daily 5

Alternate 5

Weekly 5

Others 5

2.7 Trip purpose - Why are you traveling?

Work 5

Business 5

Education 5

Social & Recreaton 5

2.8 Interchange points - Do you change buses?

Yes 5

Tourism 5

Others 5

No 5

2.9 If YES to 2.8, How many buses do you change? Specify - _________ 2.10 Journey Time - (hh:mm)

_____ hour

______ minutes

2.11 Waiting Time - How long do you wait for a bus on any given day? _____ hour 2.12 Fare - How much money did you pay for the ticket?

2.13 Ticket Type -

Daily Ticket 5

Bus Pass 5

_________ Rupees Others (Specify) 5

3. PART 3 : BUS SERVICE OPINION

Question

Ordinary

Volvo

3.1 SAFETY - Which bus service is

more safe?

Old 5

1. Volvo 5

3.2 TRAVEL COST - How much

does this bus service costs you?

Old ____ Rs.

1. Volvo_____Rs.

3.3 TRAVEL TIME SAVINGS - How

Much does this bus service save

your time?

Old _____ hrs

1. Volvo_____hrs.

| 46 | Travellers Choice â&#x20AC;˘ Dasara 2009

______ minutes

Question

Ordinary

Volvo

3.4

PUNCTUALITY - How timely is this bus service?

_____

_____ following scale from 1,2,3,4 & 5 -

3.5

RELIABILITY - How reliable is this bus service?

_____

_____

3.6

FREQUENCY - What is the frequency of each of this bus service as per you?

_____ Min _____ Min _____ Min

1. Old 2. Volvo 3. Others

3.7

ACCESSIBILITY - Is this bus service easily accessible?

Yes 5 No 5

(Please rank your opinion on the 1. EXCELLENT, 2. GOOD, 3. FAIR, 4. BAD, 5. WORSE) 1. BLUE / WHITE 2. CITY VOLVO 3. JnNURM

3.8 (a) MODAL SHIFT

(Have you been a regular bus user?) Yes 5 No 5 3.8 (b) If No for 3.8 (a), you have shifted

your mode of travel from :

a. Auto c. Own TW e. Other

b. Taxi d. Own Car

a) d)

b) e)

c)

3.9

COMFORT - w.r.t following aspects

a)

Air Conditioning

b)

Seating comfort

c)

Luggage space

5 1. VOLVO 5 1. VOLVO 5

d)

Alighting/Boarding (Can you get in or get down a bus easily?)

1. VOLVO

5

e)

Condition of Bus (Is the Bus condition good?)

1. VOLVO

5

3.10

Conduct of crew (Were the conductor and driver of bus well - behaved?

1. VOLVO

5

3.11

CONECTIVITY - Does this bus service directly connect to your destination? Yes 5 No 5

3.12

PRIORITY - Accd to you, which do you give the highest & lowest priority HIGHEST PRIORITY 5 from 3.1 upto 3.12 LOWEST PRIORITY 5

3.13

What is your overall rating for this bus service?

4.

PART 4: YOUR SUGGESTION TO IMPROVE BUS SERVICE

4.1

What is your suggestion regarding passenger information system at bus stops?

_______________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________ Select the

Please rank your opinion on the

1. VOLVO

1. VOLVO

following scale from 1,2,3,4 & 5 1. EXCELLENT, 2. GOOD, 3. FAIR, 4. BAD, 5. WORSE

HIGHEST PRIORITY 5 LOWEST PRIORITY 5

5

4.2 Please suggest a name for the Mysore City Volvo bus service & other services.

City Volvo 1.

2.

Other services 1.

2.

name to win a prize

4.3

Any other feedback from you whith reference to :

CONNECTIVITY

FARE STRUCTURE

OTHERS

1. _________________

1._________________

1._________________

2. _________________

2._________________

2._________________

3. _________________

3._________________

3._________________

4.4

Whether you prefer dropping home by city taxi on your arrival ?

4.5

If Yes what is the fare you sujjest

Yes 5 No 5

_________ Rs.

Fill this form or mail to cmm@ksrtc.org

Travellers Choice â&#x20AC;˘ Dasara 2009 | 47 |

Premiumservices servicesoperated operatedininfollowing followingsectors. sectors Premium Shirdi

Mumbai

Pune

13 Kolhapur

Hyderabad

Panaji Belgaum 1

2

3

Hospet

Hubli

Bellary 13

Ananthapur

4 Shimoga

5 Chikmagalur

6

12

Mangalore

Chittur 11 Chennai

Bangalore

Tiruvannamalai 10

Madikeri 7

9 8 Gundlupet

Coimbatore Trichur Ernakulam

Tiruvanantapuram

| 48 | Travellers Choice â&#x20AC;˘ Dasara 2009

Premium Services from Bangalore Destination

Via places

Service Class

Departure Timings

Sector 1: Challakere, Bellary Bellary

Challakere

Rajahamsa

2205

Bellary

Challakere

Sleeper

2301

Bellary

Challakere

Volvo

2315

Deodurga

Bellary

Sleeper

2230

Gulbarga

Bellary

Rajahamsa

2000

Gulbarga

Bellary

Sleeper

2105

Lingasugur

Bellary

Rajahamsa

2215

Sindhanur

Bellary

Rajahamsa

2130

Sindhanur

Bellary

Sleeper

2245

2230

2245

2330

Sector 2: Chitradurga, Hospet Badami

Hospet

Meghadoot

2030

Bagalkot

Hospet

Rajahamsa

2130

Bijapur

Hospet

Rajahamsa

1900

Bijapur

Hospet

Volvo

2100

Donimalai

Chitradurga

Rajahamsa

2200

Gangavati

Hospet

Rajahamsa

2200

Gangavati

Hospet

Sleeper

2330

Gangavati

Hospet

Volvo

2245

Hampi

Hospet

Rajahamsa

2300

Hospet

Chitradurga

Rajahamsa

2315

Jamakhandi

Hospet

Rajahamsa

2045

Muddebihal

Hospet

Rajahamsa

2215

Talikote

Hospet

Rajahamsa

2000

Yelburga

Hospet

Rajahamsa

2230

2330

Sector 3: Davanagere, Hubli Athani

Belgaum

Rajahamsa

1800

Bailahongal

Hubli

Rajahamsa

2115

Belgaum

Hubli

Rajahamsa

2030

Belgaum

Hubli

Rajahamsa

1930

Belgaum

Hubli

Sleeper

2130

Belgaum

Hubli

Volvo

2200

2230

Dandeli

Hubli

Rajahamsa

2045

2245

Davanagere

Chitradurga

Sheetal

1200

Davanagere

Chitradurga

Volvo

1745

Dharwar

Hubli

Rajahamsa

2130

Gadag

Davanagere

Rajahamsa

2152

Gokak

Hubli

Rajahamsa

2045

Hanagal

Davanagere

Rajahamsa

2300

2100

Travellers Choice â&#x20AC;˘ Dasara 2009 | 49 |

Destination

Via places

Service Class

Departure Timings

Sector 3: Davanagere, Hubli Hubli

Davanagere

Rajahamsa

2215

Huvinahadagali

Davanagere

Rajahamsa

2315

2230

2320

2335

Kolhapur

Hubli

Rajahamsa

1730

Kolhapur

Hubli

Volvo

2030

Mumbai

Hubli

Volvo

1500

1700

2000

2130

Mundargi

Davanagere

Rajahamsa

2150

Panaji

Hubli

Rajahamsa

1530

1700

Panaji

Hubli

Volvo

1800

1930

Pune

Hubli

Volvo

1730

1900

Sadalaga (Chikkodi)

Hubli

Rajahamsa

1900

Shirdi

Hubli

Volvo

1300

Sirsi

Davanagere

Rajahamsa

2201

Yellapura

Shimoga

Rajahamsa

1915

2359

2100

2200

Sector 4: Arasikere, Shimoga Agumbe

Shimoga

Rajahamsa

2200

Gokarna

Shimoga

Rajahamsa

2100

Heggodu (Sagara)

Shimoga

Rajahamsa

2300

Karwar

Hubli

Rajahamsa

1900

Karwar

Shimoga

Rajahamsa

1745

Kollur

Mangalore

Rajahamsa

2000

Kumta

Shimoga

Rajahamsa

2115

Kuppalli

Shimoga

Rajahamsa

2230

Linganamakki

Shimoga

Rajahamsa

2145

Shimoga

Arasikere

Rajahamsa

2245

2320

Shimoga

Arasikere

Volvo

1005

1400

Shiralakoppa

Shimoga

Volvo

2330

Sringeri

Tarikere

Rajahamsa

2132

Tumkur

Tumkur

Rajahamsa

700

715

2315

2301

2400

2245

Sector 5: Hassan, Chikkamagalur Chikkamagalur

Hassan

Rajahamsa

1100

1200

1400

Chikkamagalur

Hassan

Volvo

1430

1800

2330

Horanadu

Mudigere

Rajahamsa

2225

Sringeri

Chikkamagalur Ambari

2225

Sringeri

Chikkamagalur Rajahamsa

2130

Sector 6: Sakleshapura, Mangalore Belthangadi

Hassan

Rajahamsa

2200

Bhatkal

Mangalore

Rajahamsa

1900

| 50 | Travellers Choice â&#x20AC;˘ Dasara 2009

2200

2300

2330

Destination

Via places

Service Class

Departure Timings

Sector 6: Sakleshapura, Mangalore Bhatkal

Shimoga

Rajahamsa

1845

Coondapur

Dharmasthala

Rajahamsa

2100

2030

2150

Coondapur

Mangalore

Rajahamsa

715

2031

2040

2100

2110

2140

2150

2155

Coondapur

Mangalore

Rajahamsa

2255

Coondapur

Mysore

Rajahamsa

1700

Coondapur

Karkala

Volvo

2100

Coondapur

Mangalore

Volvo

2200

Coondapur

Mysore

Volvo

2000

Dharmasthala

Hassan

Rajahamsa

1005

2115

2205

2210

2220

2230

2240

2315

Dharmasthala

Hassan

Volvo

1100

2300

Kasaragod

Mangalore

Rajahamsa

2100

Kukke Subramanya

Hassan

Rajahamsa

900

2105

2130

2150

Kukke Subramanya

Hassan

Volvo

930

2245

Mangalore

Hassan

Rajahamsa

500

630

815

930

1030

1230

2020

2105

Mangalore

Hassan

Rajahamsa

2120

2125

2130

2145

2200

2215

2220

2235

Mangalore

Hassan

Rajahamsa

2245

2315

Mangalore

Hassan

Volvo

700

900

1105

1405

2100

2115

2145

2205

Mangalore

Hassan

Volvo

2215

2225

2230

2250

2300

2335

Mudabidre

Hassan

Rajahamsa

2105

Puttur

Hassan

Rajahamsa

2200

2215

2230

2300

Sakleshapura

Hassan

Volvo

1730

2300

2343

2210

Sector 7: Mysore, Madikeri Bhagamandala

Mysore

Rajahamsa

2316

Madikeri

Kushalnagar

Rajahamsa

832

1001

Madikeri

Virajpet

Rajahamsa

2332

2356

Madikeri

Kushalnagar

Volvo

1400

1600

2310

Mysore

Mandya

Ambari

615

630

1330

Mysore

Mandya

Rajahamsa

Every 30 minutes from 1000 hrs to 2130 hrs

Mysore

Mandya

Sheetal

Every 15 minutes from 0600 hrs to 1800 hrs

Mysore

Mandya

Volvo

Every 15 minutes from 0600 hrs to 1830 hrs

Siddapura (Kodagu)

Mysore

Volvo

645

Virajpet

Mysore

Volvo

600

915

1531

1345

2330

Sector 8: Mysore, Gundlupet Cannanore

Mysore

Rajahamsa

2005

2105

Coimbatore

Mysore

Rajahamsa

2005

2100

Coonur

Mysore

Rajahamsa

2235

Ernakulam

Mysore

Rajahamsa

1705

Kasaragod

Mysore

Rajahamsa

2135

1804

Travellers Choice â&#x20AC;˘ Dasara 2009 | 51 |

Destination

Via places

Service Class

Departure Timings

Sector 8: Mysore, Gundlupet Kozhikode

Mysore

Rajahamsa

2059

2159

Ooty

Mysore

Ambari

930

2145

Ooty

Mysore

Rajahamsa

2103

2131

Ooty

Mysore

Volvo

900

2245

Payyanur

Mysore

Rajahamsa

1900

Thiruvananthapuram

Mysore

Rajahamsa

1500

2218

2220

Sector 9: Salem, Coimbatore Coimbatore

Salem

Volvo

2245

Ernakulam

Coimbatore

Rajahamsa

1806

2006

Ernakulam

Coimbatore

Volvo

1930

2100

Kottayam

Coimbatore

Rajahamsa

1701

1902

Munnar

Coimbatore

Rajahamsa

2030

Palghat

Coimbatore

Rajahamsa

2300

Palghat

Coimbatore

Volvo

2030

Thiruvananthapuram

Coimbatore

Volvo

1605

Thrissur

Coimbatore

Rajahamsa

2130

2200

1830

Sector 10: Hosur, Salem, Thiruvannamalai Kodaikanal

Dindigul

Rajahamsa

2115

Kumbakonam

Trichy

Rajahamsa

2030

Madurai

Dindigul

Rajahamsa

2030

Madurai

Dindigul

Volvo

2200

2100

Nyveli

Thiruvananthapuram Rajahamsa

2100

Pondicherry

Thiruvananthapuram Volvo

830

Pudukottai

Trichy

Rajahamsa

2000

Trichy

Salem

Rajahamsa

2100

Trichy

Salem

Volvo

2130

2230

2230

Sector 11: Chennai Chennai

Chittur

Rajahamsa

1000

2100

2141

2147

2148

2155

Chennai

Chittur

Rajahamsa

2210

2220

2225

2233

2235

2331

Chennai

Vellore

Rajahamsa

2115

2206

2220

2240

2246

Chennai

Chittur

Volvo

1115

1300

2130

2200

Chennai

Chittur

Volvo

2315

2320

2330

Chennai

Vellore

Volvo

1400

1630

2030

2135

Sector 12: Kolar, Chittur Kolar

Kolar

Rajahamsa

500

KolarGold Fields Kolar

Rajahamsa

600

Sriharikota

Tirupathi

Volvo

2145

Srikalahasti

Tirupathi

Ambari

1115

| 52 | Travellers Choice â&#x20AC;˘ Dasara 2009

630 2200

2200

2205

2251

2256

2342

2215

2230

2245

2300

2210

2310

Destination

Via places

Service Class

Departure Timings

Sector 12: Kolar, Chittur Srinivasapura

Kolar

Rajahamsa

700

Tirupathi

Chittur

Rajahamsa

530

815

915

940

1200

Tirupathi

Chittur

Rajahamsa

2140

2245

2250

2320

2330

Tirupathi

Chittur

Volvo

600

730

935

1045

Tirupathi

Chittur

Volvo

2230

2300

2359

Vijayawada

Tirupathi

Rajahamsa

1400

Vijayawada

Tirupathi

Volvo

1900

1300

1700

1330

1500

2210

2145

2215

2230

2105

Sector 13: Kurnool, Hyderabad Basavakalyan

Hyderabad

Rajahamsa

1630

Bhalki

Hyderabad

Rajahamsa

1845

Bidar

Hyderabad

Rajahamsa

1600

Bidar

Hyderabad

Volvo

1900

Hyderabad

Kurnool

Rajahamsa

1930

2000

2040

2130

Hyderabad

Kurnool

Volvo

1945

2015

2030

2120

Secunderabad

Hyderabad

Volvo

2100

1730

Sector 14: Chikkaballapur, Ananthapur Chikkaballapur

Chikkaballapur Rajahamsa

700

Mantralaya

Ananthapur

2000

2030

2045

Puttaparthy

Chikkaballapur Rajahamsa

700

800

1045

Puttaparthy

Chikkaballapur Sheetal

1215

Puttaparthy

Chikkaballapur Volvo

900

Raichur

Ananthapur

Rajahamsa

2015

2030

2130

Raichur

Ananthapur

Volvo

2105

Rajahamsa

2200

For details on advance booking counters, timetable details, booking through Internet, contact or visit: www.ksrtc.in Bangalore Kempegowda Bus Stand

Mysore Bus Stand

Enquiry

:

94808 15155

Enquiry

94808 15156

0821-2520853

080-22873377

0821-2443490

Reservations

94808 15157

Reservations

94808 15215

080-22385848

Control Room

94808 15158

: :

080-22870099

Bangalore MCTC Bus Stand Enquiry

:

94808 15162 080-26752888

:

:

94808 15214

0821-4000698

Always travel by KSRTC for safe and comfortable journey Travellers Choice â&#x20AC;˘ Dasara 2009 | 53 |

Tips for Travellers

Prudent Packing A well organised bag is a travellers’ delight! What you pack and how you pack you luggage goes a long way in making your holiday enjoyable. Follow these simple tips and have a great holiday.

Tagging Always tag your luggage on the outside with your name, address and phone number. Also put a piece of paper inside with the same information, in case the tag gets stripped off.

Organising Space Try and organise the space in your luggage so that items are easily accessible once you get to your destination.

Plastic bags are of great help when it comes to organising your luggage as you and pack most of your must-carryitems like toiletries, socks and innerwear separately.

Also remember to carry an extra bag for your soiled laundry.

Avoiding Wrinkles To save yourself the trouble of carrying an iron box, pack your clothes in a neatly folded manner. Suitcases are best when it comes to keeping clothes wrinkle-free.

Avoiding Breakages If you are traveling with anything breakable, surround it with soft and squishy items. Put your CD player or camera inside a plastic bag and then put it inside a plastic bag filled with socks or handkerchiefs. The same rule holds good for your child’s syrup bottles.

Alternatively, you could also roll it in your night dress or bath towels.

Maximising Space Utilisation Always carry neatly folded clothes as they are easily packable. If you are having trouble fitting everything in, look for ways to use nooks and crannies. Fill the area around books with socks.

Put your ethernet cables inside your shoes. Also, you can cheat a little bit on the carry-on. Wear your jacket on the plane instead of putting it in your suitcase. Put your earrings, modem, or even a few pairs of socks in your coat pockets.

You could also put the toiletries in your purse or in the extra pockets of your travel kits, as a separate toilet kit would occupy a lot of space. Try and carry shampoos, talcum powder and creams in sachets as bottles would occupy a lot of space.

| 54 | Travellers Choice • Dasara 2009

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| 56 | Travellers Choice â&#x20AC;˘ Dasara 2009