Just moved to a new city and can't figure how to get from road A to B? Worse, you're stuck in a remote village and need a few extra bucks? Mapmyindia.com should come as an answer to most of your prayers when you're on the road.

Mapping India

Back in 1992, when Rakesh and Rashmi Verma returned from the US after a 12-year stint, they realised that digital maps were not available in India.

This spurred them to map India, digitally. For 13 years, 400 of their field researchers travelled across the country collecting data , which was supplemented with desk research.
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In 2004, mapmyindia.com went online. It offers free access to all-India maps that can be browsed on the portal.
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Their product list includes map books, atlases as well as GPS navigational devices for mobile phones, bikes and cars.

Overall, they claim to cover 620 cities, 5.6 lakh villages, 130 tourist destinations, and 2 million points of interest, as well as ATM kiosks, restaurants, petrol pumps and temples.

Directions for Free

The free Internet map section reminded us of Google Maps. We scanned the area nearby and discovered that the format was similar though this website offered more detailed info.

Mapmyindia listed all the hospitals and hotels, even the lesser-known points that Google Maps might overlook. We were disappointed to find no ATMs though.

Buy Travel Goodies

The National Motoring Atlas is ideal for road trips with region-wise maps that include distance charts, 101 things to do and other suggestions.
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If paper maps aren't your thing, opt for mobile navigational GPS devices that provide real time voice guidance.

If you stray from your destination, the voice re-directs you, automatically. Also check out the Zx150 Deluxe, which combines navigation with video playback, acts as a hands free phone and a reverse camera as well.

The touchscreen device can be attached to the windshield and once the direction is keyed in, it will provide voice guidance on the easiest way to reach your destination.

Another cool gizmo is the Trailblazer, a navigational device for bikers. With a waterproof screen, you get voice guidance within the helmet, thanks to an FM receiver.

Upside: Basic in design, it's easy to navigate.
Flipside: An uninviting home page.

LOG ON: www.mapmyindia.com