pachamalai eco tourism

Pachamalai Hills

Amidst the verdant landscape of north-eastern tamil nadu lies a world of wonder and magic, where the green hills embrace the azure sky and the misty breeze carries with it a sense of freedom and tranquillity. welcome to the pachamalai hills, a mystical and awe-inspiring mountain range located a mere 80 kilometres from the charming town of tiruchirappalli..

The very name of these hills speaks of the incredible beauty that they possess. Pachai, meaning green, and Malai, meaning hill, together convey the essence of the lush greenery that carpets the landscape as far as the eye can see. Spread over a vast area of around 5,200 square miles, these hills are a treasure trove of exquisite natural beauty, spanning elevations from 1,770 to 4,620 feet. From its mountain streams to its sweeping vistas, there is much to explore and discover in Pachamalai. The Pachamalai Hills are a part of the Eastern Ghats and are blessed with two sparkling rivers that flow through the hillsides: Sweata Nadi and Kallar. The Kaveri River basin and the Palar River basin are separated by these magnificent hills, which constitute a series of rounded hills made up of granitic gneisses. Sal forests thrive on the flat hilltops, while scrub jungles flourish on the slopes. The valleys boast rich loamy and clayey soils, nurturing a variety of flora and fauna. One of the most fascinating aspects of Pachamalai is the incredible culture of the indigenous communities that call these hills home. The Pachaimalai Ali people are the native inhabitants of this region and have a unique way of life that has evolved over the years. Their presence adds a distinct charm to the area, and their customs and traditions are a source of fascination for visitors. There are a plethora of attractions in Pachamalai that are sure to leave you spellbound. From glistening waterfalls to serene hiking paths, there is something for everyone. The Koraiyar Falls, Mangalam Aruvi Falls, and Mayil Oothu Falls are some of the most popular waterfalls in the area. The water cascades down in a magnificent display of nature's power, creating a mesmerising sight to behold. Nature lovers can indulge in a host of activities such as trekking, bird-watching, and nature photography. The hills are home to a vast range of flora and fauna, with a variety of wildlife that you can spot on your adventures. Visitors can also explore medicinal gardens, which offer a glimpse into the fascinating world of herbal remedies. For those who want to take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life, Pachamalai is the perfect weekend getaway. Whether you want to simply relax and soak in the tranquil surroundings or indulge in adventure and exploration, Pachamalai has something to offer everyone. The Pachamalai-Trichy region is a popular destination for tourists looking to escape the heat and experience the magic of the hills. The Pachamalai Hills are a hidden gem of Tamil Nadu that truly deserve to be explored and celebrated. With its stunning landscapes, fascinating culture, and abundant wildlife, it is a place that is sure to leave you spellbound. So why not pack your bags and head to Pachamalai for an unforgettable adventure filled with beauty, magic, and wonder? The hills are calling, and the magic awaits!

• How to Reach
• Best Time to Visit

Pachamalai Hills can be reached by road from Chennai, Bangalore, and other major cities in Tamil Nadu. You can take a bus from Tiruchirappalli, which is the nearest major city to Pachamalai Hills.

Tiruchirappalli International Airport, about 106 km away.

Tiruchirappalli Junction Railway Station, about 105 km away.

December to March

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Pachamalai Hills

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Pachaimalai Hills

"green mountains", pachamalai hills tourism.

The Pachamalai Hills or Pachais in Tamil Nadu are a green hill-range 80 km north of Tiruchirappalli. With rivers Sweata Nadi and Kallar flowing through, these hills offer waterfalls, trekking trails and medicinal gardens. It has recently developed as a region for eco-tourism, especially for weekend getaways. Blossoming flowers and butterflies add to the scenic terrain and views. It is known to be home to tribal communities giving the culture of Pachais a unique flavour.

One can book a guided tour or eco-tourism package through the Forest Department of Tamil Nadu.

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How to Reach Pachamalai Hills

How to reach overview.

• Air/Rail: Tiruchirappalli is around 80 km away from Pachaimalai Hills. The closest airport and railway station are Tiruchirappalli International Airport and Trichy Jn.
• Bus: One can also take a bus upto Thuraiyur, around 35 km from Pachaimalai Hills.
• Road: Pachaimalai is well connected to all these cities by road if you have your own car or taxi.
• There are chargeable pick-up services available from Thuraiyur to Pachamalai that are managed by the Forest Department, Tamil Nadu (Tiruchirappalli Division).

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• Mon. Jun 3rd, 2024

Digital Trichy

Tiruchirappalli (Trichy) City Digital Information Portal

PACHCHA MALAI (பச்சை மலை)

The Pachamalai Hills, also known as the Pachais in Tamil Nadu, are a green mountain range located 80 kilometres north of Tiruchirappalli. These hills, which are traversed by the rivers Sweata Nadi and Kallar, have waterfalls, hiking paths, and medicinal gardens. It has recently grown in popularity as an eco-tourism destination, particularly for weekend vacations. The scenery and vistas are enhanced by blossoming flowers and butterflies. It is well-known for being

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Pachamalai Hills – Trichy

Pachamalai Hills is located at Thuraiyur, Trichy. As the name suggests, the literal meaning of the name will be Pachai meaning ‘green’ and Malai meaning ‘Hill’.

Located at a height of about 500 to 1000mts from the ground level, pachaimalai has many animals, birds, and butterflies for animal lovers.

Then for nature lovers, it has two rivers namely Kallar and Sweata flowing here and waterfalls like Mangalam Aruvi, Koraiyar Falls, and Mayil Uthu Falls also flow here.

If you love to trek, this is the best place to go on trekking. Small towns namely Thuraiyur, Esanai, Elambalur, Perambalur, Gangavalli, Thammampatti, Arumbavur, Malayalappatti, Thedavur, and Uppiliapuram surrounds the hill and we can witness the rich culture of the local tribal people. This happens to be the best tourist spot of Trichy.

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Pachamalai Hills , Tiruchirapalli

Things to know, best time to visit pachamalai hills, nearby railway stations, airports near pachamalai hills.

About Pachamalai Hills

Cornflower blue and Alexandrite green, that’s Pachamalai Hills . Blue are the never-ending infinite skies above and green are the hills. That's what the name also stands for. Whoever came up with the name must have been awestruck with the unearthly greenery of the place. One can totally understand that because visitors can completely relate to it. So green, so very very green! You know what the best thing is about Pachamalai. Pachaimalai Hills is verdant greenery hillock is located on the Eastern Ghats nearby Tirchy or Tiruchiraplli. It's the fact that the place is still not too explored. It’s relatively virgin and we know how hard-pressed one is to find places that are still more or less untouched. The place gives you a complete experience in the sense that it isn't just the eyes that are pleasured; the ears are also included in the fun given the beautifully lazy sounds of the rivers Sweata and Kallar besides the Koraiyar, Mangalam Aruvi and Mayil Uthu falls.

The Veera Ramar dam built across River Kallar is a must see. The water sprays on your face like you are faced with a thousand exotic sprinklers when you visit the water-wonder. The hills cover three districts, Tiruchirapalli, Salem and Perambalur and more than 11 towns including Thuraiyur and Arumbavur. Do go and hike in the jungles because the indigenous flora and fauna is going to make you resolve to return again and again.With all those birds, butterflies and exotic animals, you just can't help it. You must go for the butterflies if nothing else. There are just too many. You'll return more colorful we guarantee. Jack fruit is the major cultivation in the season time. Trekkers will be enthralled to be in this hill.

Location & Places to Visit on Pachamalai Hills Map

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What you want, when you want and how you want.

Chettinad, Tamil Nadu

76 km from Pachamalai Hills - See map

Chettinad is famous for its cuisine as well as for the Nattukottai Chettiars who had been associated to the banking and business sectors since...

Nature, Hill station

Kalrayan Hills, Tamil Nadu

78.2 km from Pachamalai Hills - See map

Have you ever had the feeling of getting down from your vehicle and walking for hours at a stretch. It’s just going to be you and the place...

Adventure, Nature, Pilgrimage

Puliancholai, Tamil Nadu

85.3 km from Pachamalai Hills - See map

72 KMs away from the hustle of Trichy, Puliancholai has slowly become a safe haven for the quiet and the adventurous alike. Puliancholai is a...

Thiruvanaikovil Jambukeswarar Akilandeswari Temple, Tamil Nadu

87 km from Pachamalai Hills - See map

Jambukeswarar Temple is a 1800 year old temple built by Kochenkannan, an early Chola King in a place called Thiruvanaikaval. It is located in the...

Pilgrimage, Historical

Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, Tamil Nadu

87.2 km from Pachamalai Hills - See map

Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple or Tiruvarangam is first and foremost temple of 108 holy abode of Lord Vishnu. The temple is dedicated to Lord...

Tiruchirapalli Rock Fort, Tamil Nadu

89.9 km from Pachamalai Hills - See map

Tiruchirapalli Rock Fort was constructed during Vijayanagar Rulers was used for military fortifications. British used it during the Carnatic War...

Samayapuram Mariamman Temple, Tamil Nadu

93.1 km from Pachamalai Hills - See map

Mariamman, an incarnation of Goddess Parvati, is considered to be most sacred and powerful version of Shakti Devi. Samayapuram Mariamman...

Vekkali Amman Temple, Tamil Nadu

93.8 km from Pachamalai Hills - See map

Vekkaliamman Temple is located in the Woraiyur Town which was once a capital for erstwhile Chola Dynasty. The town is the birth place for some...

Railway Heritage Centre, Tamil Nadu

95.5 km from Pachamalai Hills - See map

Railway Heritage center is situated next to community hall of the Tiruchirapalli Junction. Being a part of erstwhile Southern Railway, this center...

Government Museum-Trichy, Tamil Nadu

95.9 km from Pachamalai Hills - See map

Government Museum of the Trichy was established in 1983 in the cantonment area. Later in 1997, the museum was shifted to Rani Mangammal Darbar...

Vayalur Murugan Temple, Tamil Nadu

98.4 km from Pachamalai Hills - See map

Dating back to 1200 years ago, Vayalur Murugan Temple was built by Chola King. The temple was located in the site where Arunagirinathar, a...

Mukkombu, Tamil Nadu

98.9 km from Pachamalai Hills - See map

Mukkombu Barrage was built across river Cauvery by Sir Arthur Cotton in 19th century. The place is an ideal picnic spot which is often visited by...

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PACHAMALAI HILLS, TRICHY

Location: Pachamalai Hills , Google Maps   Pachamalai Hills Famous For: Waterfalls, Trekking trails and Medicinal gardens   Ideal Duration: 1 – 3 days   Closest airport and railway station: Tiruchirappalli International Airport and Trichy Junction

PACHAIMALAI HILLS:

Pachai means ‘green’ and Malai means ‘Hill’, as the name suggests. It is located in northeastern Tamilnadu uplands and is an extension of the Eastern Ghats. The Pachamalai Hills have rivers known as Sweata Nadi and Kallar flowing through the Pachaimalai Hills are a mountain range in Tamil Nadu, India. The Pachamalai Hills , located 80 kilometers north of Tiruchirappalli in Tamil Nadu , are a lush mountain range. Rivers Shweta Nadi and Kallar run through the Pachaimalai Hills . The Hills, along with the Javadi, Shevaroy, and Kalrayan hills, divide the Kaveri (Cauvery) River basin from the Palar River basin. Scrub jungles grow on broken land in the slopes, and sal (Shorea robusta) forests grow on the flat hilltops. Loamy and clayey soils are found in the valleys. 

If you are planning to visit tourist places around Trichy?Pachamalai Hills will be one of the wonderful places to visit. Start exploring tourist places by staying at Ramyas Hotels with comfortable rooms, tasty foods & great offers. Book Rooms Here

AREA OF PACHAMALAI HILL:

They constitute a discontinuous stretch of highlands spanning around 5,200 square miles (13,500 square km) and ranging in elevation from 1,770 to 4,620 feet (540 to 1,400 meters) . Waterfalls, hiking paths, and medicinal gardens can be found in the Pachas highlands. Thenpara nadu, Kombai nadu, Aathi Nadu, and Vannadu are some of the tiny regions that make up this mountain range. The area is made up of rounded hills made up of granitic gneisses.

VACATION SPOT:

It has recently grown in popularity as an ecotourism destination, particularly for weekend vacations. Looking for tourist places near Trichy within 100 kms ? Pachamalai Trichy is a popular weekend destination for those who looking to escape from the heat.

UNKNOWN FACTS ABOUT PACHAMALAI HILLS:

The Hills are noted for being home to indigenous communities, which gives Pachais culture a distinct character. Pachamalai, which spans several mountain ranges, is a haven for the region’s tribal inhabitants, who have developed a distinct culture and way of life. It is located between 500 and 1000 meters above sea level. The Pachaimalai Ali people, who dwell in the area, are named after the hills. They comprise a discontinuous line of highlands with a typical elevation of 1,770 to 4,620 feet (540 to 1,400 meters), spanning an area of around 5,200 square miles (13,500 square kilometers).

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Tree houses & hikes at Pachamalai

The eco-tourism projects, that have already been completed, includes tree houses on the hills of Top Sengattupatti or Thenpuranadu.

As a part of this initiative, the forest department has built an interpretation centre on the hills. This centre will allow tourists to get an audio-visual experience of the natural habitat of a forest.

To facilitate adventure tourism, a 4km hiking trail starting from Maamarathusolai has been constructed. The route will cover a waterfall, couple of watch towers and British-era guest houses.

Pachamalai hills, located in the Eastern Ghats, is a paradise for wildlife tourism. It is  home to 154 species of birds and 135 species of butterflies. It is also home to around 500 deer.

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Moscow is beautiful all around the year. Choose traveling time according to preferred activities.

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See the 344-feet Cathedral of Christ the Savior - the tallest Orthodox church in the world.

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Being the most recognizable symbol of Russia in the world, Red Square is an absolute must see when in Moscow. 

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In Russia, there are many beautiful trails for ecotourists to tread. Source: Ruslan Shamukov / Itar-Tass

Nikola Lenivets, Kaluga Region

Nikola Lenivets is an art park and organic farm that regularly hosts architectural festivals, new media conferences, science events, electronic music parties and ecological workshops. Guests can camp and volunteer at the farm, but without having to leave showers or wi-fi behind. There is a hostel, a restaurant, a bar and cottages available to rent.

For more information on how to get there and where to stay check out  nikola-lenivets.com

La Fattoria Little Italy, Tver Region

Source: ITAR-TASS

Cheesemaker and Italian native Pietro Mazza, welcomes visitors to his 40-acre farm where he keeps over 100 cows. The first part of the visit is the tasting room to sample the selection of cheeses produced on the farm. Of course this is all accompanied by a glass of Italian wine, and followed by lasagne or an Italian crepe! To work off the fine food, guests can spend a few days riding horses, milking the cows and helping with the cheese making process. Keep in mind that Pietro maintains farm hours so work begins at four in the morning!

For more information on how to get there and where to stay check out  italianskaiaferma.ru  (in Russian)

Bogdarnya, Vladimir Region

This farm is considered by its owners to be a promoter of healthy living, mixed with the best traditions of Russian rural life. Bogdarnya offers a wide range of activities including farm tours, food tasting, cookery classes, food processing workshops and training for restorative agriculture. The main idea is for guests to become immersed in and adapt to Russian village life. Visitors can stay in Bogdarnya’s hotel or have the option of going more “native” and staying in a picturesque cottage in a nearby village or accommodation in a reconstructed village school.

For more information on how to get there and where to stay check out   bogdarnya.ru/en/

Sumarokovo Moose Farm, Kostroma Region

To get in touch with your inner moose, come to this experimental farm founded in the Soviet period on the outskirts of Kostroma. Today, there are several moose farms around Russia, although this is the Taj Mahal of them! Here the moose roam the grounds freely and produce milk and antler velvet. Guests can learn how to look after a moose and sup fresh moose’s milk at the farm’s bar. Camping is possible with prior permission from the farm, although there is no formal accommodation on the site.

For more information on how to get there and where to stay check out  loseferma.ru   (in Russian) and  moosefarm.newmail.ru  (English and Russian)

Olgino Horse Farm, Moscow Region

Source: RIA Novosti

Although horse riding is the main activity here, there are a wide range of other experiences on offer. There is a farm on site that supplies the food for its café which specializes in hearty peasant fare.  Local lamb, goose, duck and rabbit meat are also available to buy for barbequing. Guests can relax in the sauna, rent a bicycle, go swimming or fishing, with skiing and horse-drawn sleigh riding available in the winter.

For more information on how to get there and where to stay check out  olgino-tur.ru

Russkinskaya Reindeer village, Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Region

Source: Getty Images/Photobank

In the village located out on the tundra 130 km from Surgut, visitors can feed reindeer at a special farm, go canoeing, fishing and hunting. One of the village’s main attractions is the Museum of Natural History, which features exhibits on local wildlife and the indigenous population, who make up over half of the local population. Russkinskaya tries to maintain its traditions through song, dance, food and handicrafts all of which can be had in abundance here.

For more information on how to get there and where to stay check out  russadm.ru/in/md/main  (in Russian)

Avanpost Ranch, Moscow region

Source: Lori/Legion-Media

Role playing is one of the ranch’s main attractions and many come to dress up and enact fantasies such as being a cowboy in the Wild West or a noble out on the hunt with hounds leading the way. Private parties can be arranged that include an MC called Sheriff, country music and line dancing.

For more information on how to get there and where to stay check out  bezpovoda.ru  (in Russian)

Primorsky Safari Park, Primorsky Region

Source: Yury Smityuk / Itar-Tass

  In this wildlife sanctuary, animals roam the grounds of the park as if in the natural habitat. The animals are separated into four areas with tigers, hoofed mammals, birds and carnivorous animals occupying separate parts. The park is also populated by Himalayan black bears and Amur tigers, as well as foxes, red wolves, badgers, wild boar, goats and birds. Visitors will be able to get great views of the tigers from a bridge and get up close with many of the smaller animals. The sanctuary acts as a rehabilitation centre and promotes knowledge about the environment.

For more information on how to get there and where to stay check out  safaripark25.ru  (in Russian)

Dog  sledding in Kamchatka, Kamchatka Region

This excursion promises to turn you into a dog ‘musher’ (or in laymen’s terms, a sled dog team driver) by the end of your tour. With jaunts ranging from half a day to a full day, the ride will take you through beautiful scenery on the outskirts of the regional capital and past the peaks of three volcanoes: Avachinsky, Koriaksky and Kozelsky.  Upon return to the lodge a picnic awaits! Skiing is also available.

For more information on how to get there and where to stay check out  kamchatkahuskies.com

Lake Baikal, Irkutsk Region and Buryat Republic

  The bracing winds which blow off the world’s oldest and deepest fresh water lake, Baikal, will revive any weary traveller. Many visitors come to see the Baikal seal, one of only three freshwater seals in the world. Scientists are baffled as to how these seals made it so far from the ocean. Another option for visitors is to volunteer with the Great Baikal Trail organisation, whose goal is to build and restore a trail that will circumnavigate the whole Lake. In addition to building the trail, other projects include creating park space for preservation and the restoration of an old watermill.

For more information on how to get there and where to stay check out  greatbaikaltrail.org

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15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Moscow

Written by Diana Bocco Updated Dec 23, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Moscow is one of Europe's most enigmatic destinations, home to a fascinating history and colorful, awe-inspiring architecture you won't find anywhere else in the world. Moscow might be one of the most populous cities in the world with over 11 million inhabitants, but this hasn't changed its strong cultural and social traditions.

Walk the cobblestone streets of the Red Square or the banks of the Moskva River early in the morning, and it's hard to tell what century you're in.

Tsarist architecture, must-see churches, and glamorous shopping opportunities blend together for a visual experience you won't forget. For ideas on what to see and do while visiting Russia, here's our list of top tourist attractions in Moscow.

1. Marvel at the Size of the Kremlin

2. catch a performance at the bolshoi theatre, 3. shop at the luxurious gum, 4. make your way into lenin's mausoleum, 5. spend an hour (or three) at red square, 6. discover history at the museum of cosmonautics, 7. ride the stunning moscow metro, 8. explore the moscow state integrated museum-reserve, 9. spend a rainy day at the tretyakov gallery, 10. walk up and down arbat street, 11. stop by the vdnkh all-russian exhibition centre, 12. wander around gorky park, where to stay in moscow for sightseeing, map of tourist attractions & things to do in moscow.

Moscow's most recognizable structure is without a doubt the Kremlin, a 15th-century fortified complex that covers an area of 275,000 square meters surrounded by walls built in the 1400s.

The Grand Kremlin Palace -which has over 700 rooms- was once home to the Tsar family and is now the official residence of the president of the Russian Federation, although most heads of state choose to reside elsewhere.

The massive complex also includes many other buildings, some of which are open to the public and can be visited regularly. Aside from three cathedrals (including one where the Tsars were once crowned) and a number of towers, the Kremlin is also home to the Armory building, a museum holding everything from the royal crown and imperial carriages to the ivory throne of Ivan the Terrible and Fabergé eggs.

The Bolshoi Theater is home to the largest and one of the oldest ballet and opera companies in the world . While the theater has undergone several major renovations over the past century-including a recent one in 2011 to restore some of the imperial architectural details-it still retains all of its Neoclassical grandeur.

The Bolshoi Theater you see today opened in 1824, after several older versions burned down. Inside, red velvet, a three-tiered crystal chandelier, and gilt moldings give the place a Byzantine-Renassaince grandiose feel like no other.

Catching a show from the resident ballet and opera troupes is a treat, as the theater often presents a number of classic performances, such as Tchaikovsky's Mazeppa and Rachmaninoff's Francesca da Rimini, both of which originally premiered here.

Moscow's oldest and most upscale shopping center is an architectural marvel. GUM (short for Glávnyj Universálnyj Magazín or "Main Universal Store") was built in the late 1800s in neo-Russian style to showcase a beautiful mix of a steel skeleton and 20,000 panels of glass forming an arched roof.

This was a unique construction at the time, since the glass had to be strong enough to support the snow-heavy Russian winters. The building is just as impressive outside, with all three levels covered in marble and granite.

While GUM is no longer the largest shopping center in Moscow, it's still by far the most beautiful. Home to brands like Gucci and Manolo Blahnik, this might not be the ideal destination for most budget-conscious visitors, but the beauty of the building itself is worth a visit.

On the third floor, there are also great dining options, including a Soviet-style canteen that serves traditional Russian food, and a stand selling ice cream made by hand using an original 1954 recipe originally approved by the Soviet government.

Lenin's Mausoleum, the final resting place of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin, occupies a central spot in Red Square. His body has been in the mausoleum since his death in 1924-and although the original plan was for him to be buried after a short period of public display for mourning, the plan quickly changed.

After over 100,000 visited the tomb over a period of six weeks, it was decided that a new sarcophagus and a more permanent display space could actually preserve Lenin's body for much longer than expected-and Lenin's Mausoleum was built.

Over the years, the mausoleum and its marble stairs also became the main spot from where Soviet leaders would watch parades and events happening in Red Square.

Lenin's embalmed body can still be seen today, lying down in a bulletproof glass sarcophagus as if he's sleeping. While a visit to the mausoleum is certainly unusual, it has become a must-do for history buffs looking to understand how Lenin's legacy truly changed the nation. Come ready to wait, though -there are usually lines to get in.

All of Moscow's main streets start at Red Square, so it's easy to see why this is considered the heart of the city. A massive space of 330 meters by 70 meters, the square is flanked by the Kremlin, Lenin's Mausoleum, two cathedrals, and the State Historical Museum.

In 1945, a massive Victory Parade was held here to celebrate the defeat of Nazi Germany by the Soviet Armed Forces.

St. Basil's Cathedral , one of the most recognizable buildings on the square, was built in 1555. The unique cathedral has architectural details inspired by Byzantine and Asian design, as well as details that resemble those found in famous mosques. There are nine individual chapels inside the church, all decorated with colorful mural art.

Both the square itself and the Kremlin are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites . On weekends, there are sometimes stalls selling souvenirs and traditional items here, such as matryoshka (Russian nesting dolls), at the entrance of the square.

At one point, Russia and the US were toe-to-toe when it came to space exploration. While that might no longer be the case, the museum's amazing collection-which includes over 85,000 items-is still awe-inspiring.

Main exhibits include the space capsule used by Yuri Gagarin , the first human to travel into outer space; a USSR flag with moon fragments; a Soviet spacesuit; and a rocket propulsion unit from the 1960s. A special two-story hall showcases sections of the Mir space station interior, and there are also models of the first sputniks and a replica miniature spaceship.

English-language tours are available, and there's also a Cinema Hall showing subtitled short films about the history of space exploration programs and the first manned space flight.

The museum is located inside the base of the monument to the Conquerors of Space, which was built almost 20 years before the museum opened.

Riding the Moscow metro is an experience all in itself, but even just heading underground to walk through the stations is something no visitor should miss. With 223 stations and 12 metro lines crosscutting through Moscow, however, this can be tricky, so visiting at least a few of the most impressive ones is a good start.

Arbatskaya station was designed by a skyscraper architect, so it's no surprise that it features multicolored granite slabs and impressive bronze chandeliers.

Park Kultury station , located next to Gorky Park, is covered in marble and features reliefs of people involved in sports, while Teatralnaya station is decorated with porcelain figures dancing and wearing traditional Russian costumes.

The metro is open between 5:30am and 1:00am but it's very crowded in the early morning and after 4pm, so it's better to visit in the late morning or early afternoon to really appreciate the architecture without the crowds.

The Moscow State Integrated Art and Historical Architectural and Natural Landscape Museum-Reserve is a cultural open-air museum complex comprised of four different historical sites.

The most important site, the Kolomenskoye Estate, was once the summer residence of Tsars as far back as the 14 th century. The complex, which covers almost 300 hectares, is home to fairy-tale wooden palaces; a tent-roof stone church built in the 1500s; a water tower; fort towers and structures; and the 24-room Museum of Wooden Architecture , which includes the restored dining room of Tsar Alexei I.

Beautiful manicured gardens , riverside picnic areas, and a massive collection of both artifacts and structures make this a great destination to help you see what medieval Russia looked like. English-language tours are available, but you're also free to wander the grounds on your own.

The largest collection of Russian art in the world sits here, with over 180,000 paintings, sculptures, and religious art dating back to over a millennia ago. The gallery, built using beautiful red and white colors from classical Russian architecture, is located near the Kremlin and it was built in the early 20 th century.

Significant art pieces include the Vladimir Mother of God; a Byzantine icon of the Virgin and child dating back to the 1100s; Andrei Rublev's The Trinity icon from the 15 th century; and several works by Ilya Repin, the most famous realist painter in Russia.

On the grounds of the museum, there is also an 86-meter-tall statue of Peter the Great, as well as a number of Socialist Realism sculptures.

Moscow's one-kilometer-long pedestrian street has been around since the 15 th century. Originally a trade route in the outskirts of the city, Arbat Street is now very centrally located, home to posh buildings and lots of places to eat and shop.

Beautiful street lamps and two significant statues-one of Princess Turandot (from Puccini's last opera) and one of Soviet-era poet Bulat Okudzhava-adorn the street, which fills up with both locals and tourists on evenings and weekends.

A great place to pick up souvenirs or sit down at an outdoor café, Arbat Street also offers a chance to visit the former home of poet Alexander Pushkin and the café both Anton Chekhov and Leo Tolstoy used to visit.

Although it was originally designed as a general-purpose trade show venue, this park complex now houses amusement rides , ice rinks , and a number of galleries and other attractions for all ages.

The park's most famous landmarks are the Moskvarium, a marine biology center home to over 8000 species of marine animals, the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art, and a shopping center selling traditional products from former Soviet countries.

There's even a film museum showing Soviet cartoons or even a full-length film (for an extra fee) and an education center offering masterclasses on everything from becoming a barista to video montage (call or write in advance to find out which ones are English-friendly).

Soviet-era pavilions, sculptures, and fountains abound here as well, including the famous Friendship of the Peoples Fountain, which features statues of women dressed in costumes from different former Soviet countries.

Named after the famous Russian writer Maxim Gorky (who was nominated for the Nobel Prize in Literature five times but never won it) and sitting right across the Moskva River, Gorky Park covers 120 hectares of beautiful ponds and green spaces.

Popular with both locals and tourists, the park offers a variety of things to enjoy-from sunbeds, hammocks, and drinking fountains to free yoga classes and children's playgrounds. There's free Wi-Fi and sockets for charging your phone, as well as many food stands and plenty of wild animals, including deer, rabbits, and pheasants.

Visitors can rent paddle boats and bicycles to explore the park-and from May to October, there is also an open-air movie theater, as well as scheduled presentations by street performers, musicians, and artists. Gorky Park attracts the young and old, so don't be surprised to see a mix of people exercising, playing chess, and sunbathing.

Luxury Hotels :

• Lotte Hotel Moscow is one of the top 5-star properties in Moscow offering the largest Royal Suite in Russia. The trendy rooms and suites here all have contemporary style and great city views. On-site amenities are plentiful. There are two restaurants: one serving contemporary Italian fare, and the other Japanese. There is an impressively lit indoor swimming pool, a well-known spa, and a state-of-the-art gym.
• Another excellent luxury hotel is the Ararat Park Hyatt Moscow . The residential-style property is in the heart of Moscow just next to the Bolshoi Theatre and within walking distance of the Kremlin and Red Square. The rooms and suites have been opulently designed by Tony Chi. The on-site restaurant serves a mix of European and Armenian specialities. There is also a Japanese sushi bar and a rooftop lounge with fabulous city views.
• The St. Regis Moscow Nikolskaya also has a central location just a few minutes from the Kremlin and Red Square. The 5-star property has a mix of elegant rooms and suites, including interconnecting room options for families with kids. There are multiple restaurants on-site including an Italian bistro. Other amenities include the fabulous Iridium Spa, which does a full range of treatments and has an indoor swimming pool, sauna, and steam room.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• Palmira Business Club is a top mid-range choice. The contemporary lifestyle hotel offers well-appointed rooms and suites, including options for families. Suites are quite spacious and have kitchenettes. Amenities here include a complimentary breakfast at the on-site restaurant, a hot tub, sauna, and spa. There is also a fitness center.
• The trendy Mercure Moscow Baumanskaya offers a mix of rooms and suites with contemporary decor. The mid-range hotel can arrange airport transportation and offers baggage storage. Other amenities include a restaurant and room service. The front desk is open 24 hours.
• Boutique Hotel Brighton is about 10 minutes from the city center in a leafy park area. It offers excellent value for money and has charming rooms and suites with sound-proof windows and doors, as well as blackout curtains. A complimentary breakfast is served, and there is also an indoor swimming pool.

Budget Hotels :

• Hotel Ibis Budget Moscow Panfilovskaya is about a 15-minute drive from Moscow's downtown, and it's within walking distance from a metro station that will take you there. The soundproof rooms at this budget property are clean, comfortable, and can sleep up to three people. The hotel is pet friendly, has paid parking available on-site, and also has a salon.
• If you just need a budget hotel near the airport then check out Aviator Hotel Sheremetyevo . Located right at the airport, it has soundproof rooms, including options for families. Amenities include an indoor play area for kids, a sauna and swimming pool, and a free breakfast.

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