Destinations, Features, Experiences and much more
It is not an understatement to say that Benaras aka Kashi is one city that gives you an experience that is quintessentially India. Bustling, chaotic and super hurried, Varanasi, as the city is also called, is one quite like none other. Home to the renowned Kashi Vishwanath temple, the soul of the city is the… Continue reading Streetscapes of Benaras: Heritage Buildings, Vintage Structures, Visual Art and more
It is that time of the year when the fervour of Dasara is upon us and there is celebration all around. From museum visits and gollu hopping to Navratri feasting and bombe shopping, there is a lot to look forward to during Dasara in Karnataka. However, no celebration of Dasara is complete without the mention… Continue reading Commemorating the Majesty of the Royal Dasara – Exhibition at IIWC, Bangalore
With mesmerizing mountains, azure blue lakes, verdant valleys, fairy tale like villages and breathtaking landscapes, Switzerland, at the risk of sounding cliched, is the epitome of enchanting beauty. Located in the heart of Europe, this landlocked country offers the perfect blend of natural beauty, bucolic charm coupled with contemporary urban luxury. The recently released U.S. News… Continue reading Photoessay: Iseltwald – an Idyllic Paradise on the edge of Lake Brienz
It is close to 9.30 am on a sultry Sunday morning and the roads of Shankerpura (also spelt Shankarpura), known for its famous mallige (jasmine) bear a deserted look. I was looking for the famous “mallige katte” or mallige trading centre which I was given to understand was where the rate of the famous Udupi mallige… Continue reading The Allure of the Udupi Mallige (Udupi Jasmine)
Often dubbed as the cultural capital of Switzerland, Basel is a city that offers a kaleidoscope of sights spanning history, art, architecture and culture. Known for its innumerable museums, heritage architecture and an engaging old town, Basel forms for a truly compelling visit. Located about an hour’s drive from Zurich, Basel is also home to… Continue reading On an Art Trail in Basel: A Haven for Art Lovers
Heritage houses, Alpine music, rural handicrafts, agricultural tools, yesteryear farmhouses, kitchens, hay lofts, cellars and more. If this piques your interest, Ballenberg is the place for you. Located just about 20 minutes from Brienz town centre, Ballenberg is the only open-air museum in Switzerland. Incidentally, it is also the largest museum in the country, spread… Continue reading Ballenberg, Swiss Open-Air Museum – Where Buildings Speak
With close to 150 unique weaves, India is a treasure trove when it comes to indigenous textiles and regional handlooms. A reflection of our rich cultural heritage and tradition, the stories behind these weaves are often as magical and fascinating as the textiles themselves. A case in point is the unique Gollabhama sarees of Siddipet,… Continue reading Gollabhama Sarees: a unique legacy of Siddipet, Telangana
Think tulips and the mind immediately thinks of Amsterdam and the gorgeous Keukenhof gardens, the latter is a place that I am yet to visit. Viewing beds of tulips meticulously cultivated in gardens has always been my dream and when I heard about the Tulip festival in Morges in Switzerland, I could not be happier.… Continue reading Photoessay: Tulip Festival in Morges, Switzerland
As mentioned in my previous post, Natchiarkoil is an eclectic town near Kumbakonam and forms for an engaging visit in more ways than one. Apart from the Nachiyar Kovil or Thirunarayur Nambi Temple, the village is famous for its handcrafted lamps. There are several factories in the town that make the exclusive Kuthuvilakku which is… Continue reading Nachiarkoil Kuthuvilakku aka The Nachiarkoil lamp
There is no denying the fact that travelling within India is replete with interesting sights, engaging experiences and surprises at almost every nook and corner. A visit to the southern city of Kumbakonam is sure to treat you to some unique sights. And the seemingly non-descript town of Natchiarkoil on the outskirts of Kumbakonam is… Continue reading Nachiar Kovil or Thirunarayur Nambi Temple: Natchiarkoil, Kumbakonam
