Miscellaneous · Travel

The best shopping places in Jaipur: Bazaars, Markets and Bargains

Easily one of the most colorful and vibrant cities of India, Jaipur – the capital city of Rajasthan in India, presents a kaleidoscope of experiences for travellers of all genre. Apart from the numerous monuments, Jaipur has a rich tradition of art and craft and it is little wonder that it is a haven for shoppers.… Continue reading The best shopping places in Jaipur: Bazaars, Markets and Bargains

Miscellaneous · Travel

Allure of Handlooms: elegance aplenty

If you are a lover of all things natural and indigenous, the inimitable charm of handlooms is hard to resist.  Given India’s diversity, handlooms have been integral to our culture and heritage. From time immemorial, hand woven fabrics of our country symbolize grace, tradition and uniqueness.  A term that is generally used for a loom that is run sans electricity, handlooms… Continue reading Allure of Handlooms: elegance aplenty

Miscellaneous · Travel

Five Unique things to do in Goa: experiences off the beaten track

Sun, sand, surf, parties and pure fun are just a handful of things associated with India’s tiniest and most vibrant state, Goa. Flanked by the glistening Arabian Sea on the west, Maharashtra on the north and Karnataka to the east and south, Goa is one of the most popular states in the country. Ruled until… Continue reading Five Unique things to do in Goa: experiences off the beaten track

Miscellaneous · Travel

Temple markets: a kaleidoscope of zeal, vibrancy and effervescence

Small yet sustainable, little shops and establishments that mushroom around temples in India are one of the most lively markets you can ever find. They are a melange of energy, color and life.  Bustling with hectic activity and teeming with people, they showcase the many flavors of our diversity, culture and traditions. Here are some random captures:… Continue reading Temple markets: a kaleidoscope of zeal, vibrancy and effervescence

Miscellaneous · Travel

City of Gates: Aurangabad – top four things to see and do

Named after the last Mughal king Aurangzeb, the city of Aurangabad is popularly known as the tourism capital of Maharashtra.  Located in the Deccan plateau, the city is home to a number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites including the impressive Ajanta and Ellora caves. Known as the ‘city of gates‘, Aurangabad has close to 52… Continue reading City of Gates: Aurangabad – top four things to see and do

Miscellaneous · Travel

The state of many colors: Rajasthan, on my wishlist

Without leaps of imagination, or dreaming, we lose the excitement of possibilities. Dreaming, after all, is a form of planning: Gloria Steinem As the above quote conveys, it is always important to pursue your passions.  Ultimately, having a dream in the first place and working towards making it come true is the essence of life.… Continue reading The state of many colors: Rajasthan, on my wishlist

Miscellaneous · Travel

Chennai: The charismatic coastal city of South India – Guest post

I am very excited to share my first guest post that I wrote for the Wild Book Company managed by the wonderful Lois Key.  It is a photo essay on my experience in the multifaceted city of Chennai. True to its thriving cultural, economic and cosmopolitan nature, Chennai is multifarious.  While the city boasts of… Continue reading Chennai: The charismatic coastal city of South India – Guest post

Miscellaneous · Travel

DakshinaChitra: a slice of South Indian culture and heritage

If you are a lover of heritage houses, ancient culture, folklore and traditional arts and crafts, DakshinaChitra is the place for you.  Located about 25 km from the metro city of Chennai, this centre has been open since 1996 and is managed by the Madras Craft Foundation (MCF).  Modeled on the lines of a cultural village, the… Continue reading DakshinaChitra: a slice of South Indian culture and heritage

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

Miscellaneous · Travel

Pondicherry: my top 5 favorite places and things to do

The union territory of Pondicherry located in South India is one of my favorite destinations for a holiday or a quick getaway.  Also called Puducherry or just Pondy, this unique town was a French colonial settlement till as recent as 1954.  Hence, the “French connection” is unmistakable and distinct here. With the new part of… Continue reading Pondicherry: my top 5 favorite places and things to do