Andhra Pradesh & Telengana · Travel

Gollabhama Sarees: a unique legacy of Siddipet, Telangana

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

Andhra Pradesh & Telengana · Travel

Vijayawada diaries: Kondapalli Fort – a treasure house of medieval history

During my recent visit to Vijayawada, I had a chance to visit Kondapalli town which is synonymous with the manufacture of wooden toys.  But beyond toys, the town also houses an ancient medieval fort.  Located about 25 km from Vijayawada to the west of the city, the fort is located atop of a hill.  The… Continue reading Vijayawada diaries: Kondapalli Fort – a treasure house of medieval history

Andhra Pradesh & Telengana · Reviews · Travel

Review: Novotel Vijayawada Varun – your gateway to Vijayawada and beyond

While the city of Vijayawada may not be synonymous with the conventional idea of a vacation or taking a break, this bustling city on the banks of the river Krishna actually packs a punch when it comes to unique experiences spanning history, culture, craft and tradition.  And when scouting for places to stay in the… Continue reading Review: Novotel Vijayawada Varun – your gateway to Vijayawada and beyond

Andhra Pradesh & Telengana · Travel

Photoessay: Undavalli caves, Vijayawada: splendid rock cut architecture

The bustling city of Vijayawada offers several interesting sights spanning nature, history, religion and culture.  Arguably one of the best attractions of this city are the Undavalli caves located 6 km from the city centre.  It is also an important Buddhist site just like the others sites in the state. The caves are one of the… Continue reading Photoessay: Undavalli caves, Vijayawada: splendid rock cut architecture

Andhra Pradesh & Telengana · Travel

Amaravati: an important Buddhist site in Andhra Pradesh

As mentioned in my previous post on Ghantasala, the southern state of Andhra Pradesh has had a profound influence of Buddhism.  There are several theories that believe that Lord Buddha himself visited Andhra Pradesh when He gave sermons at Amaravati during the reign of King Suchandra.  Buddhism spread in a big way during the reign of… Continue reading Amaravati: an important Buddhist site in Andhra Pradesh

Andhra Pradesh & Telengana · Travel

Photoessay: Ghantasala – a centre of Buddhism in Andhra Pradesh

The southern state of Andhra Pradesh is a treasure house when it comes to ancient Buddhist sites.  With an extremely significant and a deep-rooted influence of Buddhism, the state boasts of close to 150 Buddhist sites with new ones being discovered regularly. While one would normally associate Buddhism with Sanchi or Bodh Gaya, a Buddhist… Continue reading Photoessay: Ghantasala – a centre of Buddhism in Andhra Pradesh

Andhra Pradesh & Telengana · Travel

Hyderabad beyond the Charminar, pearls and biryani : an offbeat tour of old city

Hyderabad for me is a special city – well it’s a city I grew up in and have some of my fondest memories of this bustling metropolis. Known for its Hindu and Muslim traditions and a culture that is a mix of Arabian, Turkish and Persian, the buildings, language, food and arts of Hyderabad have… Continue reading Hyderabad beyond the Charminar, pearls and biryani : an offbeat tour of old city

Andhra Pradesh & Telengana · Travel

Veerabhadra temple, Lepakshi: a picture of architectural splendour

Given India’s rich cultural history and diverse religious beliefs, temples have always been an integral part of our ethos and culture.  Exquisite temples that are an epitome of grandeur have been built by Indian rulers since time immemorial.  A travel to any nook and corner of the country is sure to reveal architectural gems in… Continue reading Veerabhadra temple, Lepakshi: a picture of architectural splendour

Andhra Pradesh & Telengana · Travel

Wooden toys of Kondapalli: of colour, charm and creativity

An integral part of our culture, India is home to a number of indigenous crafts that are the lifeline of several communities.  Influenced by several factors like availability of raw materials, influence of ancient dynasties and local traditions, handicrafts of India are as diverse as distinct.  One such distinctive craft are the colourful wooden toys… Continue reading Wooden toys of Kondapalli: of colour, charm and creativity

Andhra Pradesh & Telengana · Travel

Chowmahalla Palace, Hyderabad: a testimony to the glory of the Nizams

Founded in 1591 by Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah, Hyderabad, is a city replete with royal traditions and regal history.  During the early years of the 18th century it was India’s biggest and richest princely state and was ruled by the Nizams once Mughal power came to an end.  While the city has grown much beyond… Continue reading Chowmahalla Palace, Hyderabad: a testimony to the glory of the Nizams