Kerala · Travel

#HolidayDifferently with Sterling: 5 unique experiences with Sterling Wayanad

While I have been to Wayanad twice before, this time was certainly a bit more special for I had a chance to do things what I like the most.   As mentioned several times earlier, travel for me means not only sightseeing but also being able to experience the place from unique perspectives, whether it is… Continue reading #HolidayDifferently with Sterling: 5 unique experiences with Sterling Wayanad

Andhra Pradesh & Telengana · Travel

A volery of birds at Uppalapadu Bird Sanctuary, Guntur

It is often said that ‘too many disappointments are usually a sign of too many expectations’.  Just like for most things in life, this quote is totally applicable to travel too.  Many a time I have visited places with preset expectations and have come out utterly disappointed.  This is when you realize the importance of traveling… Continue reading A volery of birds at Uppalapadu Bird Sanctuary, Guntur

Tamil Nadu · Travel

Five ‘not so touristy’ things to do in while in GReat Trails, Kodaikanal

Also known as the “Gift of the Forest”, Kodaikanal is situated on a plateau between the Parappar and Gundar Valleys.  Blessed with rich flora, Kodaikanal is bestowed with meadows and grasslands in abundance along with Eucalyptus trees and shola forests in the valleys.  With the lake being central to the hill stations’ attractions, Kodai has some… Continue reading Five ‘not so touristy’ things to do in while in GReat Trails, Kodaikanal

Andhra Pradesh & Telengana · Travel

Pochampally: weaving handlooms in alluring patterns and bright hues

Having lived in Hyderabad for a major part of my life, visiting Pochampally was always on the agenda, given my undying love for handlooms and ethnic weaves. However, it was always one of those elusive trips that somehow never seemed to materialise. But the plan remained firmly harboured within me. Hence, when I visited the… Continue reading Pochampally: weaving handlooms in alluring patterns and bright hues

Karnataka · Travel

Mysuru off the beaten track- Part II: Of museums and spirituality

Mysuru as mentioned in this post is a city of many facets.  Though it is the second largest and populous city of Karnataka, it is a city with oodles of old world charm and one where life still moves at a pleasantly slow pace.  A perfect weekend getaway from Bangalore, Mysore never fails to disappoint… Continue reading Mysuru off the beaten track- Part II: Of museums and spirituality

Karnataka · Travel

Mysuru off the beaten track- Part I: Of Silk and Sandal

One of the most visited cities of South India, Mysore in Karnataka is synonomous with royalty, heritage and of course its world famous Dasara. Recently renamed Mysuru, the city’s glittering palace is literally the soul of the place and the epitome of splendor and all grandeur.  Also known as the cultural capital of the state,… Continue reading Mysuru off the beaten track- Part I: Of Silk and Sandal

Travel · West Bengal

Malik Ghat Flower market in Kolkata: a truly arresting and striking experience

As mentioned in my previous posts here and here, exploring the local markets, especially flower markets is a “must do” in my travel itinerary. Ubiquitous yet unique, these markets truly reflect the native culture and spirit of a place. Diversity in India is truly endless; whether in terms of climatic conditions, types of terrains, languages, religion,… Continue reading Malik Ghat Flower market in Kolkata: a truly arresting and striking experience

Karnataka · Travel

Devaraja Market, Mysore: a potpourri of color, customs and culture

With a penchant for exploring the native spirit and culture of a place, I stepped into the renowned Devaraja market of Mysore on my recent visit to the city.  Over 100 years old, the market is the epitome of vibrancy, activity and vivacity.  A prominent landmark of the heritage city, this market is literally the… Continue reading Devaraja Market, Mysore: a potpourri of color, customs and culture

Miscellaneous · Travel

The Portuguese connection: Loutolim, Goa

Guest post: Bindu Gopal Rao Think Goa and you might immediately connect with images of beaches and night life. But there is so much more to Goa than partying that you can discover in India’s best loved beach state. And if you like me, are the kind who likes architecture, stop by at Loutolim a… Continue reading The Portuguese connection: Loutolim, Goa

Travel · West Bengal

Indigenous creativity: Idol makers of Kumartuli

One of India’s biggest and most colorful festivals Dusshera or Durga puja is celebrated in a variety of ways in different parts of the country.  The festival is a riot of colors, pomp and gaiety right from Kulu in the north to Mysuru in the south. For the uninitiated, Durga puja is celebrated to mark… Continue reading Indigenous creativity: Idol makers of Kumartuli