Malaysia Customs, Currency & Airport Tax Regulations

Customs Rules


Import regulations::



Free import :

- 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 225 grammes of tobacco;

- max. 1 litre of wine, spirits or malt liquor;

- max. 100 matches;

- cosmetics, perfumery, soaps and dentrifices in open containers to a total max. value of MYR 200.-;

- max. 3 pieces of new wearing apparel;

- one pair of new footwear;

- one unit of each portable electrical or battery operated appliance for personal care and hygiene;

- a total max. of MYR 75.- of dutiable food preparations;

- gifts and souvenirs up to a total value of max. MYR 200.- (except goods from Langkawi and Labuan, up to a total value of max. MYR 500.-).





The trafficking of illegal drugs is a serious offence in Malaysia and the penalty for such an offence is death.



The items 1. through 9. can only be imported duty free if the following conditions are met:

- the articles are imported by the visitor on his person or his baggage;

- non-alien residents stay in Malaysia more than 120 hours;

- nationals and residents of Malaysia have left the country for more than 120 hours.







Prohibited:

- all goods from South Africa and Israel;

- any article bearing the imprint or reproduction of any currency note, bank note or coin which are current or have at any time been issued in any country.





Additional Information on regulations::

Customs duties of 30% of the value are due in case of exceeding the allowed quantities. Duty free allowances are per person only (pooling not allowed).



Export regulations::

Free export of reasonable quantities of tobacco products and alcoholic beverages.



Pets::



Require:

- health certificate, issued 7 days prior to departure and stating that during the preceding 6 months no case of rabies has occurred in the country of dispatch and the animal has not been imported in the country of origin;

- landing permit;

- Malaysian Veterinarian Department, Import Permit. Address: 8th floor Shell Building, Exchange Square Off. Jalan Semantan, Bukit Damansara, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Phone: 03 2540077, Fax: 03 2535804.

Dogs and cats are quarantined for 30 days or more, unless coming from Singapore (export licence from Government of Singapore required), Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom or Ireland. Originating airports must telex station manager of transporting airline at point of disembarkation flight number, origin and destination, types and numbers of pets. Those subject to quarantine must have space reserved in advance at Kuala Lumpur Quarantine Station.





Baggage Clearance regulations::

Baggage is cleared at the airport of final destination in Malaysia, provided it is labeled so.



Exempt: baggage of transit passengers with a destination outside of Malaysia, provided it is labeled to that destination and the onward flight is on the same calendar day.









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Airport Embarkation Tax



Airport Tax is levied on air passengers departing as follows:

1. International flights : MYR 45.-;Except from:

a- Ipoh, Langkawi or Penang to:

- Bandah Acheh, Medan or Nias in Indonesia;

- Hat Yai, Narathiwat or Patani in Thailand;

b. Kota Kinablu, Kuching or Miri to:

- Bandar Seri Begawan in Brunei;

- Balikpapan, Menado, Pontianak or Tarakin in Indonesia;

- Davao, General Santos, Puerto Princesa or Zamboanga in the Philippines;

where the airport tax is: MYR 20.-.

2. Domestic flights: MYR 6.-.

Place of payment: if ticket issued:

1. In Malaysia: airline ticket office in Malaysia.

2. Outside Malaysia: Airport of departure in Malaysia.

Excempt:

1. Transit passengers proceeding by same aircraft or not leaving the transit lounge;

2. Those arriving from abroad (including Brunei and Singapore) and proceeding to abroad within 12 hours;

3. Crew travelling on duty;

4. Children under 2 year;

5. Heads of state, including their suite, Ministers and other dignitaries visiting Malaysia as State Guests;

6. Other persons when specified by Malaysia Airport Authority (Berhad). The exemption must be supported by written authorization from Airport Authority.









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Currency rules

Currency Import regulations:

Currency must be declared upon arrival, and is allowed for both RESIDENTS and NON-RESIDENTS, if carrying:

- local currency (Malaysian Ringgit-MYR): MYR 1,000.- or higher amounts;

- foreign currencies: USD 10,000.- (or equivalent in other foreign currency) or higher amounts.



Currency Export regulations:

Currency must be declared on departure, and is allowed for both RESIDENTS and NON-RESIDENTS, if carrying:

- local currency (Malaysian Ringgit-MYR): MYR 1,000.- or higher amounts;

- foreign currencies: USD 10,000.- (or equivalent in other foreign currency) or higher amounts.

Additional information: Travel Declaration Form (TDF) is required for passengers entering or leaving Malaysia, regardless of age. Foreign currencies include funds in the form of travellers' cheques. Clearance from the Central Bank of Malaysia is required for amounts exceeding those stated above.

Launching of New Online Indian Visa Application Form

This is to inform you that the High Commission of India in Kuala Lumpur has introduced new `Online Visa Application Form' with effect from Monday, the 10th October, 2011. This will be a mandatory requirement for all applicants seeking visa for India through travel agencies and those applying for visa as a tour group.


2. The new format of the online Visa Application Form shall be available on the link http://www.indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/

3. Individual visa applicants applying directly to the India Visa Centres would have the option of applying through `Online Visa Application Form' or as per the existing manual visa application procedure.

4. The following will be the process for the new Online Visa Application Form;

Log on to the website http://www.indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/

• Please note the interim `Unique Reference Number' located at the start, and on each page of the Online Form once you begin. Guidance notes are also provided.

• Complete all the required fields as specified.

• Off-line/hand-written application forms will not be accepted at the Indian Visa Centres on and after 10th October 2011 from travel agents / Tour groups.

• Upon completing and saving the Online Application Form, applicants will be required to download, print and sign the Form and submit it along with the passport and the requisite documents at any nearest Indian Visa Centers

• Photographs with colored background will not be accepted. Photographs only with a white / off white background will be accepted strictly as per the specification i.e. 2x2 inch.

• Submit two photographs (2x2 inch) along with application. Please do not staple both photographs to the application Form. One must be pasted to the front of the visa form while the second must be stapled to the reverse side of the form.

7. It may be noted that the applicants have to sign on the online visa application printout being submitted to the Visa Centre and signature on the visa application need to be identical to the signature on the passport.


Dos

• Please ensure to note the interim unique reference number generated at the start (and seen on each page) of the online application form.

• Please record/ note the final reference number that is generated upon completion of your application.

• Provide contact number and e-mail address in your application so that information on your unique reference numbers can be emailed to you.

• Please submit a confirmed and detailed itinerary However, this does not guarantee the issuance of a visa and the decision would still, remain subject to the discretion of the High Commission of India.

• Applications MUST be signed by the applicant him/herself and not by any representative.

• Before submitting your visa application, please check your passport(s) to ensure that there is no valid visa for India.

• All fields on the Online 'Application Form must be completed in as much detail as possible. When entering address information, please ensure that you provide the Post Code as well.


Don'ts

• Photographs with colored background will not be accepted. Photographs only with a white / off white background will be accepted strictly as per the specification i.e. 2x2 inch

• Please do not staple both photographs to the application Form. One must be pasted to the front of the form while the second must be stapled to the reverse side of the form.

• Please ensure all applications requiring additional documents are completed prior to submission at the Indian Visa Centre.'-Information to this effect is given on the website http://www.indiahighcommission.com.my/ and http://www.indiavisa.com.my/

Information distributed by High Commission of India Kuala Lumpur, on Oct 4, 2011

Velankanni Railway Station

The pristine white structure designed loosely on the style of a Cathedral characterising the Velankanni Railway Station is nearing completion. The complex bordered by twin-towers on its northern and southern point and mediated by a central dome has been conceived as a pivotal aspect of the 10-km Velankanni rail line project at Rs.48 crore. Of this, Rs.12 crore has been spent on the railway station with the Velankanni Church contributing Rs.1 crore. On the first landing of the complex, parallel to each twin-tower, is a spacious retiring room provisioned for paid passengers. On the ground-floor, on the southern end of platform one, technical rooms for relay, battery and generator to support the panel room are in the final stages of furnishing. On the northern end, refreshment rooms for vegetarian and non-vegetarian food along with a waiting room have been provided. Three borewells have been dug. Additionally, the Velankanni town Panchayat has given in-principle consent to provide potable water. Water facilities for passenger coaches are already in place and the two platforms are connected by an overbridge. As for the work on the rail line, over five-kilometer stretch along a curve in the vicinity of the Nagapattinam station that rests on saline earth is being padded up with clayey earth for safety . Further, that short-stretch is also being corroborated with a parapet wall due to loose soil and is scheduled for completion in a fortnight, according to an official source. Ninety percent of works have been accomplished and the Commissioner of Railway Safety would be invited shortly, once engineering, signaling arrangements and passenger amenities are complied with to satisfaction, said a source. As a prelude to the impending inaugural of the much-awaited railway line, a new station master has also taken charge at the Velankanni station

Kanchipuram the City of Temples

Packing Medications for your trip

Air Travellers who regularly take medications should pack all they need for their trip in their carry-on as well as their checked luggage, the Dusseldorf-based Travel Medicine Centre (CRM) advises.
This protects them in case their checked luggage is lost or their flight is delayed.

People traveling with prescription medications should carry a doctor's certificate attesting that the items are necessary for medical reasons, the CRM says. Otherwise, foreign customs officials may deny them entry.
Crossing international borders with controlled substances, such as painkillers containing morphine, can be a problem.

The CRM also advises travellers to consider heat or cold in the airplane and at the holiday destination when assembling their travel health kit.

Insulin, for example, loses its effectiveness at temperatures lower than about Zero degree Celsius or higher then Forty degree Celsius.

Children's suppositories for pain and fever become soft in the heat, so parents should pack syrups and drops for the little ones instead.

Travellers should adapt to time differences when taking medications, particularly in the case of hormone preparations, the CRM notes.

Those who have to buy medications at their holiday spot should beware of fakes, especially in Africa and Asia. The CRM recommends that travellers buy medicines in their original packaging and in licensed pharmacies only and never at marketplaces.

It is helpful to carry a package insert from home stating a medication's active ingredient, dosage and brand.
Fakes can be recognised by poorly printed packaging, an unusual smell or taste, or a crumbly texture, the CRM points out,

Tiruchirappalli - Rockfort City

Introduction
Situated on the banks of River Kaveri, Tiruchirappalli , the fourth largest city in the state was a citadel of the many dynasties like early Cholas, Pallavas, Pandyas, Vijayanagar dynasty Nayakas, Marathas including French, Nawabs and British colonial rulers.


Tiruchi flourished and prospered in its own right and grew to be the city. Tiruchi is a fine blend of tradition and modernity built around the Rock Fort. Apart from the fort there are several churches. colleges and missions dating back to the 1760s. With its excellent infrastructural facilities Tiruchi will serve as a good base to see central Tamil nadu.


GENERAL INFORMATION
Area . 4403.83 Sq. km
Attitude . 75m above the sea level
Population 24,18,366 (As per 2001 census)
Temperature Summer Max 37. I C Min 26.4 C Winter Max 31.3 C Min 20.6 C
Average Rainfall 43.4 cms
Season Throughout the year
Clothing Tropical
Languages Tamil, English, Hindi Interpretation Center at Main Guard Gate (By ASI)

HOW TO GET THERE
Air: Tiruchirappalli has an airport (7 km) Indian Airlines connects Tiruchi with Chennai, Sharjah, Kuwait, Colombo and Singapore/Ma laysio. Rail: Railway connectsallimportantcitieswithinthestateandotherstates. Road: Good network of road link all cities and towns.

Local Transport: City Bus service to all places of tourist interest from Central Bus Stand and from Chinthamani - Main Guard Gate Bus Stand. Tourist Taxis, Autos, Rickshaws are available.

PLACES OF INTEREST

Rock Fort (5Kms)

Tiruchi's most famed landmark is an 83-mte tall rock fort which is the only outcrop in the otherwise flat land of the city The most amazing fact about the rock is that it is one of the oldest in the world - approximately 3,800 million years, which makes it as old as the rocks of Greenland and older than the Himalayas. The sheer abruptness of its rise is an attention grabber in itself but the actual centre of attraction is not the fort itself, of which very little remains, but the temple at the summit. 344 steps hewn out of rock lead to the top where there are inscriptions dating back to the 3rd century B.C. Hardly anything remains of the ramparts but the Main Guard Gate is still intact. The fort played an important role during the Carnatic Wars and according to an inscription, mainly contributed to lay the foundations of the British empire in India.

A top of the rock is the Uchipillaiyar Koil, a temple dedicated to Lord Vinayaka from where one can enjoy a panoramic view of Tiruchi. A flight of steps leads to the Thayumanavarswami Temple, dedicated to Lord Siva where the lingam is a projection of the rock itself. Below the Siva temple there are two Pallava cave temples that have beautiful sculptures of the 6th and 7th centuries A.D. At the foot of the Rock Fort is a tank and a pavilion which are used during the float festival of the temples. Near the tank is the house where Robert Clive lived when he was in Tiruchi and an 18th century Christ Church built by Reverend Schwartz of Denmark, The house is now part of Tiruchi's famous St. Joseph's College. Ph: 2704621

Srirangam 

The District's most important pilgrim centre is located in an island just 7 km from Tiruchi. Srirangam, surrounded by the waters of River Kaveri on one side and its tributary Kollidam on the other side is a 600 acre island-town enclosed within the seven walls of the gigantic Lord Ranganathaswami Temple. There are 21 gopurams, among which the Rajagopuram is the largest in South India. The 72mtr. high 13-tiered Raja gopuram was built in 1987 and dominates the landscape for miles around, while the remaining 20 gopurams were-built between the 14th and 17th centuries. Originally, there was just a small shrine where the temple is today, but it was added on to and expanded by the Cholas, Cheras, Pandyas, Hoysalas, the Vijayanagar Kings and Nayaks of Madurai. and today Srirangam stands as the biggest temple complex in the country.

Tiruvanaikkaval

Situated 2 km east of Srirangam, this beautiful Siva temple steals the show from the larger Ranganathaswami temple due to its excellent architectural design. The temple is named after the elephant which is believed to have worshipped Lord Siva here and installed under an ancient Jambu tree. The Lingam is partially submerged by water and is meant-to represent Water, one ofthe five elements

St. Lourdes Church (5 km)

The church located near the RockFort Teppakulam based on the French architecture is the oldest one of its kind. Church of Our Lady of Lourdes is the replica of the Basillica of Lourdes, the world famous place of pilgrimage in south France.

Nadhirsha Dharga (5 km)

The Dharga built 1000 years ago, was stood as a holy place for musilms. The festival of'urs' is celebrated in this mosque every year with a great boom. Many devotees from various parts of Tamilnadu visit this mosque during the festival rituals.

Samayapuram (18 kms)

This is a very famous pilgrimage centre dedicated to the Goddess Manamman. It is one among the abodes of Shakti in India. Pancha prakaram, Poochoriyal Vizha and Brahmotsavam are some ofthe festivals that attract many devotees. Ph: 2670460, 2670807.

Vayaloor (8km)

A very fine picnic spot located on the out skirts of Tiruchirappalli having a temple dedicated to Lord Murugan in the midst of lush green vegetation. Ph: 2607344.

Thiruvellarai (25 km)

A Vaishnava Temple known as Pundareekasha Perumal Temple is situated here. This Temple is one among the 108 Divya desams sanctifed by the songs rendered by Azhwars. It has the pride of Mangalasasanam made to the shrine by Periazhwar and Thirumangai Azhwar. This is also a noted Archaeological site having cave temple and swastika tank. Ph 2562246.

Uthamar Koil (12 km)

Here one can worship Lord Brahma (the creator), Lord Vishnu (the protector) the Lord Shiva (the destroyer) with in the same temple complex. So this place is called Trimurthi Shektram or Kadambavanam. Uthamarkoil in Karumbanur is one of the most famous shrines denoted in 108 VaishnavaDiviyadesam's Paadal Sthalam, Ph: 2591 4 461 2541.

Gunaseelam (24 km)

Gunaseelam located on the northern bank of River Cauvery in between Tiruchirapalli-Musin Road. A Vaishnava Temple dedicated to Lord PrasannaVenkateshwarar attracts many devotees to this place. Ph: 2275216.

Planetorium (6 km)

Planetorium / Anna Science center is located on Pudukottai Road near Airport. Programmes in Tamil and English versions are shown daily Tamil Version : 10.30 am, I .00 pm, 3.30 pm, 4.45 pm

English Version: 1 1.45 am, 2.15 pm
Entry Fee Adult : Rs. [ 2/- Child Rs. 6/- (below 12yrs)
Environmental Gallery Entry Fee Adult : Rs.5/- Child Rs. 2/-(below 12yrs) Science Park Entry Fee : Rs. I /
Phone:0431 233 1921/2332190
Timing: 10.00A.M. to 5.45 PM. (all days except Three National Holidays)

Government Museum (5km)

Government Museum is located in Rani Mangammal Chaultry near Town Hall. This museum contains bronze and granite statues. The art and architecture, the heritage of Truchy District, History, Culture and Civilization are gracefully depicted here.

Entrance Fee Adult : Rs.5/-, Students : Rs.2/-, Foreigners : Rs. 100/¬Phone:0431-2708809.

EXCURSIONS :

Puliancholai (72 km)

A beautiful picnic spot located at the foot of the kolli hills is in the forest region. At the top of kolli hills, there is a water falls known as Dakshina Ganga, the water of this cataract carrying the medicinal properties has reached Puliancholai and joins the kollidam, the tributary of Cauvery. It is a perennial stream.

Mukkombu (Upper Anaicut) (18 km)

A place located on the Truchi-Karur Road with a significance of bifurcation of Cauvery into two branches named River Cauvery and kollidam. This is a beautiful picnic spot with lush green trees, meadows and parks.

Kallanai (Grand Anaicut) (20 km)

The Grand Anaicut, built by Karikal Cholan in the 2`° Century A.D. to harness the waters of the Cauvery is the greatest engineering marvels of India. The dam is 329m long and 20m wide made up of stone is still very much in use.

Pachamaiai (80 km)

A lush green vegetative hill range near Thurayur is known as Pachamabi. It is very fine picture spot to enjoy the nature. The title people have been residing there. Their habits and way of life lure many foreign touristtothe spot

Viralimalai (28 km)

A small hillock, having a temple dedicated to Lord Su bramanya.lt is said to be existed before 15 century A. D, is situated here. There is a very fine peacock sanctuary having different kinds of peacocks. The presiding deity of this temple, Lord Subramanya seated on a peacock with his two consorts on eitherside.

Gangaikonda Cholapuram (100 km)

A gigantic temple, known as Brahadeeswarar temple was built by Rajendra Chola during 1012-1044 A.D. is similar to the temple at Thanjavur. This place had been named after his victory over the kingdoms bordering the River Ganga. The most noteworthy feature of this temple is there are life size beautiful sculptural panels on the outer walls of the scactum sanctorum. Apart from the huge Nandi, there are some beautiful sculptures including a dancing Ganesa, a lion-headed well and depicting Rajendra being crowned by Lord Siva and Goddess Parvathi.

Pudukottai (52 km)

Once a princely state, the area, which comprises the district is of absorbing interest to historians, anthropologists, archeologists and lovers ofart. The numerous dolmns, stone circles and otherforms of megalithic burials in the district indicate the antiquity of this region dating back to pre-historic and protohistoric times, this tract is mentioned in the Sangam classics. The archaeological and cultural remains at Kodumbalur, Narthamalai, Kudumianmalai, Sittannavasal, Thirumayam and Avudaiyarkoil are proofs of its rich cultural heritage.

Manora (120 km)

The eight storey Victory Tower here was built by the Maratha King Serfoji in the year 18 14 A.D. to commemorate the victory of the British over Napolean Bonaparte at Waterloo. The name 'Manors' is derived from the word minaret (small minar).

Karur (72 km)

Once the capital of early cheras, Karur was otherwise called Vanji during the Sangam age. This city played a significant role in the glorious history and culture of Tamil people. The evidences of Tamil Epic Silapathikaram, the travel note of Greek scholar Ptolemy and the recent excavations made in this area reveals that Karur has been flourishing a trading center even from the earlys Sangam age.

15 Lost Cites that you must visit

Information extracted from Yahoo travel

Gazing at the Andean peaks soaring above the Lost City of the Incas and the lush valley below, it's easy see why it was voted one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007. The 15th century A.D. Peruvian site was abandoned shortly after Spanish conquistadors invaded the neighboring areas, falling to ruin until 1911, when an American scholar stumbled across the remains.

History's once glorious metropolises have become ever more sought-after destinations as Americans get back into travel mode. Machu Picchu welcomes as many as 1 million tourists annually, and that number is said to be growing as much as 6% per year.

The Americas offer travelers dozens of lost cities to explore. Mexico has the Mayan city of Chichen Itza, with Mesoamerica's largest ball court and the hulking pyramidal remains of Teotihuacan, with its well-preserved, color-splashed murals. There's Tical in Guatemala and Copan in Honduras. Even the the Western U.S. boasts the tumbleweed-strewn ghost towns of two centuries ago.

In Pictures: 15 Lost Cities Of The World

1. Petra, Jordan

Country: Jordan

Civilization: the Nabataeans

Inhabited: sixth century B.C.

This rose-colored city carved from cliffs garnered fame in the West thanks to the 1980s blockbuster Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.

Chichen Itza, Mexico

Photo: John Elk III/Getty Images

2. Chichen Itza, Mexico

Country: Mexico

Civilization: the Mayans

Inhabited: 600 to 1000 A.D.

Site of one of Mesoamerica's largest ball courts, this royal city is located near a massive underground cenote, or sinkhole, where the bodies of human sacrifices were dropped.

Derinkuyu Underground City

Photo: Thinkstock

3. Derinkuyu Underground City, Turkey

Country: Turkey

Civilization: possibly the Phrygians

Inhabited: Approximately eighth century B.C.to 10th century A.D.

This underground network has more than 10 floors and room for up to 50,000 people, plus livestock. It is rumored to have been a hideout for early Christians escaping Roman persecution.

Machu Picchu, Peru

Photo: Glowimages/Getty Images

4. Machu Picchu, Peru

The results of the survey suggest that ease of learning the local language and adapting to the local culture are areas in which the U.S. fares well in as an expat destination--despite low scores in organizing finances and health care.

Angkor, Cambodia

Photo: Otto Stadler /Getty Images

5. Angkor, Cambodia

Country: Cambodia

Civilization: the Khmer Empire

Inhabited: ninth century to 15th century A.D.

More than a thousand temples, including Angkor Wat, populate this long-time Khmer capital. It declined after a successful attack by invaders from what is now Thailand.

Pre-Roman Carthage, Tunisia

Photo: iStockphoto

6. Pre-Roman Carthage, Tunisia

Country: Tunisia

Civilization: the Phoenicians

Inhabited: 650 to 146 B.C.

Carthage was home to the Roman Empire's arch-nemesis, Hannibal. It was burned and the earth salted during the final Punic War.

Pompeii, Italy

Photo: Dhuss/iStockphoto

7. Pompeii, Italy

Country: Italy

Civilization: the Roman Empire

Inhabited: seventh/sixth century B.C. to 79 A.D.

Pompeii was a cultural center and vacation destination for Roman high society until it was destroyed in 79 A.D. by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. Left behind are naturally ash-encased mummies.

Memphis, Egypt

Photo: DEA /A. VERGANI/Getty Images

8. Memphis, Egypt

Country: Egypt

Civilization: the Ancient Egyptians

Inhabited: third millennium B.C. to seventh century A.D.

Located at the mouth of the Nile delta, Memphis thrived for centures as a center of trade, commerce, religion and royalty. Foreign invasions, including one by Alexander the Great, let to its demise.

Teotihuacan, Mexico

Photo: Dmitry Rukhlenko/iStockphoto

9. Teotihuacan, Mexico

Country: Mexico

Civilization: possibly the Totonac people

Inhabited: 100 B.C. to 250 A.D.

This city, the founders of which remain a mystery, is home to some of the largest pyramids in pre-Columbian America. It inspired several major empires, those of the Zapotec and Mayans.

Mosque City of Bagerhat, Bangladesh

Photo: Lonely Planet Images/Alamy

10. Mosque City of Bagerhat, Bangladesh

Country: Bangladesh

Civilization: Khan Jahan Ali

Inhabited: 15th century A.D.

The city formerly known as Khalifatabad was founded by a Turkish general. It boasts more than 50 Islamic monuments and the Sixty Pillar Mosque, constructed with 60 pillars and 80 domes.


Click here to see the full list of 15 Lost Cities Of The World

Chidambaram - seat of cosmic dance

Chidambaram

Chidambaram is also called as Thillai since the place was originally a forest of Thillai shrubs. It is an important pilgrim centre and a holy place for Saivites as the famous Natarajar Temple is located here. It is 245 kms. from Madras on the Madras-Tiruchirapalli main line of the Southern Railway.

PLACES OF INTEREST
The Natarajar Temple
The temple, located in the centre of the town, covers an area of 40 acres. It is one of the ancient temples of Tamil Nadu. The roof of the sanctum sanctorum is covered with gold plates. The presiding deity of the temple is represented by air, one of the five elements of the universe and is known as Akasa Lingam. There is also a shrine known as Chitrakootam dedicated to Lord Govindaraja, adjacent to the Natarajar shrine. There are five halls in the temple namely, the Nritta Sabha, Deva Sabha, Kanaka Sabha, Chit Sabha and Raja Sabha.

The Chit Sabha houses the Akasa Lingam, Kanaka Sabha houses the Nataraja image. These two sabhas are covered with gold tiles. Nritta Sabha is the hall of immortal dance. This Sabha has fifty six pillars depicting dancing figures. Here the stones pulsate with rhythm and life. Deva Sabha is the hall of festivals and meeting place of the administrators, The Raja Sabha is the 1000-pillar-hall measuring 103 metres long and 58 metres wide where the Pandyas, the Cholas and others celebrated their victories.

The Eastern tower rises to a height of 40.8 metres. On the side walls of the entrance through this tower are carved the 108 dance poses of Bharathanatyam. The Bharathanatyam Dance poses can be seen in the Western tower also. The Northern tower rises to a height of 42.4 metres.

The Sivakamiamman temple, the Sivaganga tank, and the thousand-pillar hall are other important features of the temple.


Kali Temple
The Thillai Kali Amman temple is at the northern end of the town. It was built by Chola King Kopperunjingan, who ruled between 1229 A.D. and 1278 A.D.


Annamalai University
It is a Residential University,founded by Raja Sir Annamalai Chettiar. It is on the eastern outskirts of the town and is a great centre of Tamil learn¬ing and Carnatic music.

Pondicherry - The French Connection

The 17th-18th century headquarters of the French colonial possessions in India, this serene township even today carries a distinct French flavour, which, combined with the sea and laidback air of the place, add up to an irresistible charm. Pondicherry was laid out on the sea front of the Bay of Bengal and stands out for its neatly planned parallel roads that intersect at right angles. During colonial times the town was divided into French quarters and Tamil areas, separated by a canal that has since been covered. The oldest part of the town is ranged along the Seashore Boulevard, and has streets still carrying their French names and their pasts with them. Strolling here among old elegant buildings, churches and leafy parks fill one with a lazy delight.


Churches - One of the most beautiful churches in the city is the dramatic, Gothic, Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus located on South Boulevard. Noteworthy here are the three stained-glass panels which show scenes form the life of Jesus. The Eglise de Notre Dame des Anges (1865) has a marble-like white exterior that was achieved by mixing limestone with the white of eggs. It's the proud possessor of an oil painting of Our Lady of Assumption that was donated by Napoleon III. A famous church festival in Pondicherry is the annual June festival of the Eglise de Notre Dame de Lourdes, on the outskirts of Pondicherry, which attracts people across religions. This church is patterned on the Basilica at Lourdes in France.

Beach - On its eastern front, Pondicherry is flanked by a one and a half-kilometre long beach, a dean stretch ideal for sunbathing and swimming. There is a statue of Mahatma Gandhi and a War Memorial on the beach. Further down the beach is a 150-year-old lighthouse.

Aurobindo Ashram - Pondicherry is today best known for the Aurobindo Ashram, which is a serene retreat shaded by trees. In the early 20th century, Sri Aurobindo, the Bengali philosopher-poet, took refuge in this French territory to escape the British and in 1926 established his Ashram. The residences of Sri Aurobindo and the Mother (Mirra Alfassa, a French disciple of Sri Aurobindo who carried on in his tradition till her death in 1973) are the main buildings of the Ashram. The Samadhis (memorials) of Sri Aurobindo and the Mother are in the courtyard and are the main points of interests for the visitors. apart from the most intense and unparalleled quietitude

Auroville -This "universal town" is about 10 km north of Pondicherry. The Mother, Mirza Alfassa, dreamt of international community living in unity, peace and harmony transcending caste, creed, religion, or nationalities. The famous international commune is a self¬sufficient settlement growing its own food, running its own schools, a beacon to others on how to try and live in harmony with humanity and the Earth. French architect Roger Anger gave an interesting architectural shape to this concept, especially to the 'Matri Mandir' which symbolizes the birth of a new human consciousness.


Temples – Amidst all its French flavour, Pondicherry retains memories of the time it was under the Chola dynasty between the 10th and 12th centuries. The Manakula Vinayaka Temple is also very popular with both the locals and visitors for it is believed that Lord Ganapathy blesses his devotees with success. In February-March, the Masi Magam festival is held here. The 12th century Varadaraja Temple is another ancient shrine.

Pondicherry Museum – The Museum is located near the Government Park on Rue St Louis and was opened in 1984. There is an impressive collection from the French colonial period which includes a bed used by Joseph Francois Dupleix, the most famous of the French governors in India. Also, do not miss the rare bronze and stone sculptures from the Pallava and Chola period.

For more information on Pondicherry visit http://tourism.pondicherry.gov.in/

What meals are served on board?

A typical question that many passengers ask is about the types of meals served on board. Below is the meal types and their respective codes just for your information:

Hindu (HNML)
No beef/veal or pork is used in the preparation of Hindu meals. However lamb, fowl, fish and milk products are allowed.

Muslim (MOML)
All food served on Malaysia Airlines is Halal.
Alcohol is forbidden; and the use of alcohol in cooking is prohibited.
Meat such as beef, lamb and chicken must be slaughtered according to Muslim rites.
Pork or pig products are forbidden.

Kosher (KSML)
These meals must conform to Jewish religious laws. It is important that these rules are strictly adhered to.
Pigs, rabbits and their products are forbidden.
Animals and poultry such as cows and chicken must be slaughtered in a special manner called Shechita.
Processed foods must be prepared under rabbinical supervision.
Milk and milk products are not be used in the preparation of meat meals or served with or immediately after meals.

Medical Diets
Bland Meals/Soft Meals (BLML)
The soft or bland meal is used as a transition diet. It is an adequate meal moderately low in fibre or roughage, fat and connective tissue found in red meat.

Diabetic Meal (DBML)
These meals are high in complex carbohydrates and dietary fibre. They are low in fat and with minimal sugar added.

High Fibre Meal (HFML)
Meals are similar to low-fat/cholesterol meals except that the amount or quantity served is reduced.

Low Cholesterol/Low Fat Meal (LFML)
These meals are low in total fat and dietary cholesterol, with minimum saturated fat and no added fat or fatty ingredients.

Low Salt (LSML)
No salt is used in the preparation of these meals and highly salted ingredients are avoided.

Gluten Free (GLML)
No wheat, rye, oats or barley are included in these meals, which are also suitable for those requesting a wheat-free diet.

Low Protein (LPML)
These meals have lower quantities of protein compared to other meals. They are intended for individuals suffering from kidney and liver diseases.

Non-Lactose (NLML)
These meals are planned without the use or addition of any milk or dairy products. They are intended for individuals who have difficulties in accepting milk or its by-products. Soya bean milk can be used as an alternative.

Low Purine
These meals are planned to reduce the amount of purine, which is commonly available in all foods.

Vegetarian Meals

Vegetarian Meals (VGML)
Does not contain all by-products of animals. Margarine and cooking oil should be pure vegetable oils.

Western (Lacto-Ovo) Vegetarian (VLML)
Contains eggs and dairy products and all plant-derived foods, but not meat, poultry, fish or shellfish and their products.

Western (Non-Dairy) Vegetarian (VGML)
Contains only plant-derived foods, but does not contain dairy products, eggs, meat, poultry, honey, fish or shellfish or their products.

Asian Indian Vegetarian (AVML)
Contains only plant-derived foods and dairy products. Meals are cooked Indian style.

Songkran Festival April 13 - 15, 2011

AS mid-April's temperature rises, ushering in the beginning of the hot season in Thailand, the whole country reverberates with the sounds of cheerful laughter and merry-making. The occasion is the Songkran festival, which ushers in the Thai New Year, celebrated nation­wide from April 13-15 yearly. It is a time when much of the worries of the past year are left behind so that a new beginning could be planned for the year ahead.
The water-splashing that usually accompanies a Thai New Year is certainly most appropriate, especially during the hot month.

Step out of your hotel rooms and you would probably be greeted by young and old alike with buckets of water or water guns, especially desig­ned for the occasion. And if you are lucky, then the splashing would be followed by a face make­up with talcum powder and perfume. `Songkran' (from the Sanskrit word Sankranti, signifying the sun's shift from one zodiac to ano­ther) heralding the beginning of the solar year and is the most important festival for the people of Thailand.

The festival is celebrated over three days, Ma­hasongkran on April 13, that marks the end of the old year, Wan Nao (April 14) is the day after and April 15 is Wan Thaloeng Sok when the New Year begins.

On New Year's Day, families and friends ga­ther to offer prayers to the Buddha, clean tem­ples and houses, offer alms to the monks and sprinkle scented water on elders as a mark of res­pect and on each other's hands as an act of wish­ing good luck.

The pouring of water is symbolic of the clean­sing of the spirit, mind and body. The water is also supposed to wash away bad luck-so consi­der yourself blessed if you get drenched.

In recent years, the tradition of sprinkling wa­ter has been interpreted by youngsters as a great excuse for a water fight, and it is not uncommon to have buckets and containers of water thrown at you by teams of merry makers in the backs of trucks as you make your way down the street - particularly in major tourist areas like Bangkok, Phuket, Pattaya, Chiang Mai and Hat Yai.

The people of Thailand work hard in a very hot climate, so it only makes sense that their big­gest party is the world's largest water fight ac­companied with music, dancing and tons of splashing, as the typically mellow populace ex­plodes into wild celebration.

M. Hat Yai, there is something called the Mid­night Songkran, where festivities and splashing of water begin at the stroke of midnight on April 12 to cater to the large number of tourists from Malaysia who trooped to the southern Thai city to join in the fun.

This year, the Thai New Year falls on a Wed­nesday. Make sure you book your accommoda­tion early as you don't want to miss out on this yearly celebration.

Information extracted from Thailand Travel Talk (March Edition) for further information visit http://www.tourismthailand.org/

Tirupati Attractions

Chandragiri Fort
Chandragiri Fort is the southern entrance to the temple for the vehicles coming from Bangalore, Tamilnadu and Kerala.It is a historical fort and encircles eight ruined temples of saivite and vaishanavite pantheons, Raja Mahal,Rani Mahal and other ruined structures.

ISKCON Lord Krishna Temple
ISKCON known for the architecture on the way to tirumala hills has the carving of Lord Narasimha Swamy, Lord Varaha Swamy and Krishna Leela are marvelous.Lord Krishna"s playful acts on the windows glass reveals the colorful masterpiece in art work. The pillars are decorated with ten avatars of Lord Vishnu. A beautiful park is sorrouded with lot of flowers, ponds and fountains.

Kapila Theertham
Kapila Theertham is the only temple in Tirupati, dedicated to lord Shiva.This huge temple stands at the entrance to a mountain cave in one of the steep and vertical faces at the foot of the amazing hills of Tirumala, where the waters of the mountain stream Paapa Vinasanam fall as a huge waterfall.A huge stone statue of a seated bull "Nandhi", Lord"s Shiva"s steed, greets devotees and passersby at the entrance to the temple.

Kodanda Rama Swamy Temple
Kodhanda Rama Swamy Temple, known for the architecture- Lord Rama, Seetha and Lakshmana and the Anjaneya Swamy is seen near the foot of Lord Rama.Located in the heart of city.

Padmavati Temple
In Tirupati catch the exquisitely carved gold gopuram of the Lord Venkateswara Temple, glinting in the sun. the Trimala shrine is a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture. This ancient temple has also found a mention in various Sastras and Puranas.That's not all. There are other famous shrines in Tirupati town - Govindarajaswamy, Kodanda Ramaswamy, Tiruchanur (Goddess Padmavathi), Kapila Theertham (Lord Shiva) and Srinivasa Managapuram (Sri Venkateswara).

Sri Venkateswara Zoological Park
In Tirupati catch the exquisitely carved gold gopuram of the Lord Venkateswara Temple, glinting in the sun. the Trimala shrine is a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture. This ancient temple has also found a mention in various Sastras and Puranas.That's not all. There are other famous shrines in Tirupati town - Govindarajaswamy, Kodanda Ramaswamy, Tiruchanur (Goddess Padmavathi), Kapila Theertham (Lord Shiva) and Srinivasa Managapuram (Sri Venkateswara).

Srikalahasti
Srikalahasti (Sri=Spider,Kala=Snake,Hasti=Elephant),located on the banks of the river Swarnamukhi ( a tributary to river Pennar), is one of the important ancient Siva temples in South India. The temple is in between the river bank and the foot of the hills and the place is known as Dakshina (South) Kailasam. The lofty gopuram is a great example for the architecture.The hundred pillared mandapam is an important feature of this temple.

Talakona
Talakona Waterfall also known as Sri Venkateswara park,is the highest waterfall in Andhra pradesh. Lord Siddeswara Temples is located close to the waterfall.The water of the Talakona is enriched with herbs and people believe that it has healing properties. Talakona was declared as Bio-Sphere Reserve because of the rare species. A long and treacherous trekking route leads to the top of the hill, which can be reached by multiple paths.

Thiruchanoor
Thiruchanoor also known as Alamelu Mangapuram, the temple is home to the temple of Sri Alamelu (Padmavati), consort of Sri Venkateshwara. It is believed that the goddess Alamelu, an avatara of Lakshmi, was born the daughter of Akasha Raja, the ruler of this region, and wed Venkateshwara of Tirupati.

Tirumala Venkateswara Temple
Hindu Temple of Lord Venkateswara located in the hill town Tirumala. The temple is located on the Venkatachalam hill that forms part of the seven hills of Tirumala, and hence the temple is also known as the Temple of Seven Hills.The Tirumala hills comprising of the seven hills of Seshadri, Neeladri, Garudadri, Anjanadri, Vrushabadri, Narayanadri and Venkatadri are the abode of the Tirumala Venkateswara temple. The hill town (Tirumala) and the temple (Venkateswara Temple) are located on the Seshadri or Seshachelam hill.