India Unveiled: The Best Destination For Every Traveler
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India Unveiled: The Best Destination For Every Traveler

Varied, unique across the face of the earth, and culturally rich, India beckons as the ideal destination for travelers of all kinds. From serene backwaters to hustling bazaars, majestic forts, and peaceful temples, a lot more awaits to be explored in this country of beauty. This is a guide to some of the most striking destinations in India, each bearing its uniqueness and charm. Delhi, Agra and Jaipur: The Golden Triangle of India The Golden Triangle presents a classical starting point in the Indian journey. Delhi: the bustling capital of India that beautifully merges ancient history with modern vivacity. Explore the Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the impressive Qutub Minar. For a taste of the contemporary, visit Connaught Place or the lively markets of Chandni Chowk. Agra: The iconic Taj Mahal is housed here, simply the epitome of beauty in Mughal architecture. At par were the Agra Fort and the Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah. Jaipur: Known as the “Pink City,” it boasts some great palaces and forts. The views of Amber Fort, City Palace, and Palace of Winds present an epitome of royalty that has ruled over Rajasthan. Kerala: Backwater Bliss Kerala, “God’s Own Country,” abounds with gently flowing backwaters, lush green landscapes, and serene beaches. Alappuzha or Alleppey: The epitome of the experience of the houseboat cruise drifting lazily along palm-fringed waters and tiny village hamlets can be experienced here. Munnar: a hill station famous for its teagrowing, emerald green landscapes, and salubrious weather, ideal for nature lovers and seekers of quiet retreats. Kochi: A dynamic port city melding Dutch, Portuguese, and British colonial architecture with a thriving contemporary art scene, famous Chinese fishing nets, and one of its biggest attractions—the area of Fort Kochi. Goa: The Beach Paradise Beaches, nightlife, and the heritage of the Portuguese—make Goa a favorite haunt among sun seekers and party enthusiasts. North Goa: Party-filled beaches like Baga and Anjuna, vibrant nightlife; flea markets, and beach shacks are other attractions. South Goa: More serene beaches such as Palolem and Agonda. Perfect for people who want to relax and unwind amidst the quietude of nature. Rajasthan: The Desert Majesty Majestic forts and palaces, and desert landscapes of Rajasthan give one a feel of India’s royal times. Udaipur: Often called the “City of Lakes,” Udaipur is famous for its beautiful lakes and palaces, notably the Lake Palace and City Palace. Jaisalmer: Known as the “Golden City,” Jaisalmer has stunning sandstone architecture that includes an impressively large fort known as Jaisalmer Fort. Jodhpur: Famous as the “Blue City,” it is known for the imposing Mehrangarh Fort and the old city with its vibrant blue-painted houses. Varanasi: Spiritual Centre The city of Varanasi itself could be one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, giving them a deep spiritual experience. Varanasi Ghats: Ancient rituals and ceremonies are seen to be performed by the riverside of the Ganges as dawn rises. Evening Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat is an absolute spectacle. Kashi Vishwanath Temple: A major site of pilgrimage dedicated to Lord Shiva wherein the spiritual flavor of Varanasi speaks itself. Hampi: The Ancient Ruins Hampi is an overwhelming series of ancient ruins standing amidst breathtaking landscapes of boulders and temples excavated by UNESCO as a Heritage site. Virupaksha Temple: This is one of the major temples in Hampi and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Vijaya Vittala Temple: Famous for its stone chariot, whose carvings are exquisite, and for its musical pillars. Himalayas: The Majestic Peaks The Indian Himalayas offer an adventure seeker and a nature lover alike breathtaking beauty and activities in great variety. Shimla and Manali: The most visited hill stations with beautiful views of the landscape and sporting activities like skiing, trekking, and the chance to get acquainted with local culture. Leh-Ladakh: Barren landscapes that take your breath away, high-altitude trekking. The two biggest draws of the place are Pangong Lake and Nubra Valley. Andaman and Nicobar Islands: The Tropical Paradise A group of islands with pristine beaches, crystal clear waters, and vibrant marine life, Havelock Island is famous for Radhanagar Beach, known for swimming and relaxation. Neil Island: A place that is famous for its serene beaches, coral reefs, and therefore activities like snorkeling and diving. India has multifarious regions and a multi-cultural fabric therefore providing a unique traveling experience. Be it an adventure enthusiast, a relaxation seeker, or a person keen on digging deep into the history and culture of India; it offers a memorable journey to all.

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VISHU AND PUTHANDU – CELEBRATING THE NEW YEAR WITH A PROMISE OF HOPE
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VISHU AND PUTHANDU – CELEBRATING THE NEW YEAR WITH A PROMISE OF HOPE

Vishu, a traditional Hindu festival celebrated in Kerala. The festival signifies the first day of Medam, the ninth month in the Solar Calendar. Lord Vishnu and his incarnation Lord Krishna are worshipped on this festival, as Lord Krishna killed the demon Narakasura on this day. Vishu has been celebrated since 844AD, during the reign of Sthanu Ravi. It is celebrated every year on the 14h or 25th of April. This day also marks the first spring festival of the year, hence the golden blossoms of the Indian laburnum (Kani Konna) is decorated everywhere. The festivities comprise practices called Vishukanni and Vishu Sadhya which are followed by everyone. Vishukanni consists of rice, lemon, jack fruit, cucumber, betel leaves, coconut and golden coloured flowers called Konna are offered to the deity. The traditional brass lamps are lit in the house, which is considered auspicious. Whereas Vishu Sadhya consists of Sadhya or feast which is a major part of the festival and the main ingredients include rice, coconut milk, jaggery and spices as they are the season’s harvest. They also consume a mixture of sweet, salt, bitter and sour flavors for the New Year called Pachhadi, symbolizing a year filled with different emotions. Celebrated on this day is also Puthandu, by the Tamilians, the first day of New Year or the first month of Chittirai of the Tamil Solar calendar and usually falls on the 14th of April. Puthandu is also celebrated in Sri Lanka with equal joy. The entrance of the houses are decorated with geometric patterned rangolis and are called Kolams. Puthandu includes items like Fruits like bananas, jack fruit, arecanut, gold/silver jewellery, flowers, sarees and a mirror. On this day, Arpudu or the first ploughing of the ground is done, preparing the new agricultural cycle. Later in this day, a feast is served with main ingredients including raw mango, rice and mustard. People visit temples to seek blessings and offer their prayers and get decked up with their new attires. This festival is also celebrated in Sri Lanka, Assam, Myanmar, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand and Nepal with different names.   Vishu and Puthandu are celebrated on this auspicious day by spending time with loved ones and togetherness. This is another reason to bring people together and to celebrate with family and friends.

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Coconut And Beef? Kerala Has More Than That
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Coconut And Beef? Kerala Has More Than That

If you’re a seafood lover, you have to make a trip to God’s Own Country – Kerala. Kerala is known not only for coconut and beef, but it is also the place of survivors who place art close to their hearts. What’s special about Kerala’s art and culture, you ask? Kerala has some unique treasures apart from Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, and Kalaripayattu, but there’s also a lot more than that. Mirrors of Aranmula Unlike the regular mirrors, the smooth surface of Aranmula Kannadi which reflects the image is made with a metal alloy. This handmade metal mirror is considered as an auspicious object to keep in households as it brings prosperity, luck and wealth. Aranmula Kannadi needs proper maintenance including keeping it away from dust and heat under room temperature. There are special techniques to wipe the mirror to remove finger stains and other marks also. Most importantly, this unique artistic secret formula is only known to a single extended family in Aranmula, (a village in the district of Pathanamthitta) and it is believed that this family is brought from Tirunelveli in Tamil Nadu. Nettoor Petti Have you seen the traditional jewellery box of Kerala? It is known as the Nettoor Petti which is the specialty of Nettoor, a village near Kozhikode. Nettoor Petti is a partial handmade product including the hinges and nails. The boxes are made with country woods, and the pyramidal lid of the box makes it more attractive and unique. The exterior ornamental works and the intricate patterns of the Nettoor Petti are inspired by the temple architecture and traditional art of forms of Kerala. Cochin International Airport Art Arcade Terminal 2 of the Cochin International Airport has undergone a face-lift recently. The terminal was renovated with around Rs 240 crore with state-of-the-art facilities alongwith traditional Kerala architecture. The Kerala Art Arcade in Cochin Airport is installed near the security check area and is the main attraction of the airport. With the theme of Ettukettu (a traditional huge house style of India), with all the features including a ‘nadumittam’ (center courtyard) with a ‘Koothambalam’ replica and mural paintings, the Art Arcade displays the state’s traditional dance forms including Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, Koodiyattam, Ottanthullal, Koothu, Theyyam and more. Payyannur Pavithra Mothiram It is believed that rings could bring luck and prosperity to people and Kerala has an extraordinary ring called Pavithra Mothiram of Payyannur, which is considered as a sacred ornament. The Pavithra Mothiram is shaped like a knot and like the Aranmula Kannadi, the sole right to make this holy ring is vested in the hands of a particular family at Payyannur in Kannur district. Uru Model Uru represents an integral cultural benchmark in Kerala’s history. Uru is a majestic vessel with an impressive design and known for its ability to ferry long distance successfully. These historic trading vessels were introduced by Arab traders and eventually became popular in Malabar (Northern Kerala) and Beypore in Kozhikode. Due to the difficulties in producing this Urus, their smaller models came to the market and later became a great symbolic reminder of the area’s colourful past. Sandalwood Oil Have you heard about ‘Liquid Gold‘? It is the Sandalwood Oil which is enough to capture the fancy of most people with the alluring aroma and unique rejuvenating properties. No one can resist the charm of Sandalwood Oil due to the divine perfume and it has a high demand across the world. Especially when it comes to Kerala’s natural Sandalwood Oil. Kerala’s Sandalwood Forests are restricted to Wayanad and Marayoor and the Sandalwood Factory run by the Forest Department has drawn in people for centuries. Mural Painting of Kerala Do you have a fascination with the mural paintings? Well, the god’s own country is one of the best locations to view the murals based on ancient Indian mythology (Puranas). The oldest murals of Kerala belong to Thirunandikkara Cave Temple and the largest mural panel in Kerala, the Gajendra Moksha, is at the Krishnapuram Palace near Kayamkulam in Alappuzha district. You can see great adaptions of the Ramayana and Bhagavathatha presented at the Mattancherry Palace in Ernakulam and the Ettumanoor Shiva Temple will give you insights about the earliest forms of Dravidian mural art. Ramacham Vishari Kerala’s famous Ramacham Vishari is made with Vettiveria which is widely known for their potent medicinal purposes, Ramacham Vishari works as the poor man’s air conditioner. The breeze from the Ramacham Vishari is not only refreshingly cool but also healthy. Ramacham Vishari was widely used to the heat of the Kerala summer. Even though Ramacham Vishari is replaced with electrical amenities, it still is the luxurious ethnic item seen in Kerala homes. Sandalwood Figurine Do you know that a sprinkling of water on the sandalwood sculpture can perfume your room for days together? Sandalwood Figurines are indeed expensive, but the fragrance of these sandalwood sculptures of Kerala make them popular souvenirs. Carved Ganapathy statues (the elephant-headed god), the Trinity (Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva), Krishna, Nataraja and others are some popular artefacts. Kerala offers handcrafted sandalwood sculptures across the state which are considered as the sample of Kerala craftsmen’s skill. Hay Art Kerala is known for the popular cottage industry of straw pictures which finds a good market during festivals like Onam, Christmas, New Year. They even come in the form of greeting cards and the beautiful straw art that includes every spellbinding sight of Kerala including the backwaters and the evening sky, village fairs and festivals, vallomkali (boat race), hills and valleys, huts and hamlets and more.    

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