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

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

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

Travel · United Kingdom

Little Venice: tranquility amidst London’s hustle bustle

A quiet boat ride in a totally serene setting amidst lush greenery with the noise and chaos seeming hundreds of miles away was something I did not expect to experience bang in the middle of the wonderful city of London.  While cities like Amsterdam and Venice are synonymous with their elaborate canal systems, London’s “Little Venice”… Continue reading Little Venice: tranquility amidst London’s hustle bustle