Search Results

Wildlife Image by Shah Ahmad, Unsplash The probability is very high, but tiger sightings entirely depend on several factors, including luck. The best thing is to enjoy the beauty of nature while inside the jungle. Therefore, a tiger sighting should be treated as a bonus experience. Night Stay Booking | Tourist Zones | Wildlife | How to Reach Jim Corbett National Park is situated in Uttarakhand state in India. It is named after "Jim Corbett", who was instrumental in its establishment. It is the oldest national Park in India. Located in the foothills of the Himalayas, Jim Corbett National Park is a paradise for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. It is home to various iconic animals such as elephants, tigers, leopards, sloth bears, and different species of deer, boar, antelopes and monkeys. The Ramganga River flows in the middle of the Park, is the only perennial river in the region. The Park and its adjoining wildlife sanctuary cover an area of 562 sq. km. Image by Gautam Arora, Unsplash Tourist Zones of Jim Corbett National Park There are six tourist zones, Bijrani, Dhikala, Jhirna, Durgadevi, Dhela and Sitabani buffer zone. Bijrani Zone Guide Dhikala & Bijrani are two most demanded zones. The possibility of tiger sightings is very high here. The breathtaking natural scenery of Birjani is a sight to behold. With its extensive meadows and tangles of trees and streams, this zone is home to a bewildering variety of plants and animals. This zone has two forest rest houses, Bijrani and Malani. The Forest Rest House in Bijrani includes a total of seven rooms, four of which have double beds, two of which have single beds and, there is a dormitory with four beds. Brijrani has its canteen where you can have your Breakfast, Lunch, Evening Snacks, Dinner, and some other refreshments. In the case of Malani, you need to carry your food from outside. There is one cook cum caretaker who will prepare food for you. The forest rest house in Malani contains two rooms, each with a double bed and a common drawing-room. This FRH is preferred by tourists looking for a quiet area to relax and bird watching. Don't miss the landscape of Ringora during your safari. This zone is closed during monsoon periods. Image by Tapan Kumar Choudhury, Unsplash Dhikala Zone Guide It is considered as most premium zone mainly because of its landscape and better forest rest house facilities. Wildlife tourists anxiously await for booking confirmation in Dhikala FRH. The Dhikala zone can be visited through the Dhangari gate. Ramnagar is 18 kilometres from Dhangari Gate, while Dhikala FRH is 31 kilometres from Dhangari Gate. A crocodile pool can be found on the direct route after crossing Gairal FRH. There is a natural elevated platform from where you can enjoy resting crocodiles down below. Tigers are often spotted in the Dhikala grassland and other trails. You will have four forest rest houses in this zone, Dhikala (very high demand), Sarapduli, Gairal and Sultan. Dhikala zone doesn't allow jeep safari for day visitors (only permitted if you have a booking of these four guesthouses). However, canter safari is available for day visitors in this zone. The extraordinary beauty of the vast grassland and the dam backwater meadow will be vivid in your memory for a lifetime. This zone is also closed during monsoon periods. Jhirna Zone Guide This is also a fantastic zone. Jhirna forest resthouse provided a very panoramic view of the adjacent river bed. The Jhirna tourism zone is located in the southern part of Jim Corbett National Park. Broad stream beds, as well as sheer cliff edges, provide excellent bird-watching opportunities. Sloth bears and heard of wild elephants can often be found in the area. However, you need to carry your food, and the caretaker will cook the food for you. This zone is open for travellers throughout the year, including during the monsoon season. Nights are fascinating in this rest house; the cacophony of the jungle and the lighting of Firefly will force you to be wakeful all night. Jeep Safari in Jhirna Zone is permitted throughout the year. Dhela Zone Guide This is one of the buffer zones of Corbett. Throughout the year, this zone remains unrestricted for tourists. Jeep Safari in this zone operates throughout the year like the Jhirna zone. You can stay in Dhela Forest Rest House's solitary accomodation, which has two double bedrooms. To reach Dhela Forest Rest House, you'll need to enter through Dhela Gate, situated on the Dhela village about 20 km from Ramnagar. Durga Devi Zone Guide This zone is situated 30 km from Ramnagar. Along with other animals, this zone is an Eden for bird watchers. The name of the forest rest house is Lohachur. This zone is closed during monsoon periods. Jeep Safari in this zone is quite adventurous. River crossing and mountain climbing in the jeep through the wilderness have their fan base. The river is full of big fish, another unique feature of this zone. Wildlife of Jim Corbett National Park Jim Corbett National Park is World famous for its bird's population. As of now, more than 600 species of birds are registered in this area. Some of the commonly sighted species are Oriental Magpie Robin, Oriental Darter, Bengal Flamingo, Indian Coot, Eastern Imperial Eagle, Black Winged Kite, Black Kite, Great Hornbill, Black-Necked Stork, Malabar Trogon, Chestnut Backed Woodpecker, Olive Thrush, Crimson Sunbird, Black-Throated Fireback, Gray Francolin, Indian Vulture, Indian Roller, Oriental Turtle Dove, Indian House Wren, Indian Nightjar, Indian Peafowl, Indian Hill Myna etc. Some of the common animals in this Park are Bengal Tiger, Elephant, Spotted Deer, Jackal, Jungle Cat, Leopard, Barking Deer, Golden Jackal, Striped Hyena, Porcupine, Fishing Cat, Otter, Mongoose, etc. Night Stay in Jim Corbett National Park Jim Corbett National Park is among India's few reserve forests where tourists can book overnight jungle stay at forest guest house. These guesthouses are managed professionally and equipped with basic amenities. Staying inside the tiger reserve is an entirely different experience altogether. Especially during the night, you can hear the calls of various animals and even watch them from your room. Booking of forest rest houses is online and opens 45 days in advance. It would help if you were very prompt because usually, these rooms get sold within a couple of seconds. Official Website for Safari & Night Stay Booking How to Reach Jim Corbett National Park Delhi is the major airport near Jim Corbett National Park. From Delhi, it is approximately 8 hrs drive by taxi(250 km). Ramnagar Station is connected with major cities by train. By bus route, Ramnagar is connected with Delhi, Moradabad, Haridwar, Haldwani, Kathgodam etc.

Sustainability A hotel or a resort is something that is already prearranged or decided before we go on a vacation. The ultimate goal of the resort is to draw in and please the customers so they can come again and even refer it to others. To promote the tourism industry, resorts have been essential. In a certain market segment, numerous commercial entities run resorts covering the major part of the tourist sector. Every resort's management consistently works to win a significant portion of the market. The administration of each resort continually strives and is based on capturing a sizable share of the market. In the compulsive sense of establishing better sustainability for living and luxury, there appear to be two points of view of thinking. The first one is based on altering behaviour to address societal and environmental issues, basically based on managing resources more accurately with moderation, restraint, and limitation. The second approach is concentrated on putting efforts to use technology in this tech-changing world. Here, the idea is that faster development and adoption of green technologies may lead to better sustainability. Sustainability has long-term advantages for hotels and resorts in addition to being desirable to consumers. The main goal of sustainability initiatives is to boost efficiency, which frequently aims to reduce waste and save money by using free renewable resources. When effectively and regularly applied, cutting operational expenses and waste may result in significant, ongoing savings for hotels. Although some of these projects have a high initial capital expenditure, the savings they generate will eventually make up for the cost. Small, locally owned and operated, in-house independent hotels are frequently offered as part of community-based sustainable tourism initiatives. Tourists rely on these establishments as their entryway into that region of the globe. Creating a hub or house of sustainability in your community by utilizing local resources such as local materials, food sources, and other goods and products is another aspect of sustainability that goes beyond eco-friendly hotel services. A strong sustainability mindset may improve workers' morale, foster better community ties, and promote employee retention. Despite being intangible, they have a great deal of worth. Some of the feasible, and significant ideas eco living Carry some of the capital in green infrastructure A robust infrastructure may provide the best return on investment and, in some cases, even pay for itself in sustainable hotel architecture, which may need some initial capital expenditure. From low-flush toilets, aerators on faucets, smart showers that restrict the amount of time you can spend in the bathroom, and upgrades to LED lighting to smart thermostats. Solar panel operated systems, geothermal cooling towers, rainwater recovery systems airflow, heating, and cooling by monitoring room occupancy, client requirements, and other factors, available systems can include various components. Greener landscaping for eco-friendly living By using smart irrigation systems that monitor moisture levels and only water when necessary, planting indigenous plants suited to the climate which needs less to no water once rooted strongly, installing the on-site kitchen, fruit, and vegetable gardens fed by composted kitchen waste, worm farms, and grey water from rain, and installing rain gardens and water detention ponds, parking, and hard landscaping are all valid and reformed ideas to implement. For sustainable hotel and eco-friendly resort businesses, landscaping is essential. It may help sustainable hotel projects to have the vibe of a bohemian eco-chic boutique resort. Therefore, even shoddy preservation and retrofitting may frequently prove to be the more environmentally friendly choice, especially when attention is paid to the short and medium-term carbon emissions that are so important in the present climate discussion. Additionally, environmental rules in many nations indicate that demolishing an old structure becomes a difficult operation with high expenses. Conservation efforts for greener living It makes sense to instil this sense of responsibility in your whole workforce, starting with a hotel sustainability task force, as accepting responsibility for your influence on the environment is a big part of living sustainably. Discuss potential green initiatives with relevant parties from all sectors of business. Always encourage people to think creatively and critically out of the box about all aspects of operations, including hiring practices, guest booking and check-in procedures, transportation options, ways to support local businesses or environmental initiatives, ways to make your gift shop sustainable and green, and much more. There will be plenty of ideas to work with and practical and actionable comments but pooling the minds of several team members with expertise in various aspects of the operation is quite necessary. Additionally, it will guarantee that the team is completely invested in the decision-making process, which is essential for the effective implementation of new policies. The main resource of the food locally Local food suppliers might revamp the eating selections and restaurants. The considerable carbon emissions associated with food transportation and logistics will be reduced to half as a result of consumer preferences that are already centred on trying out unique local cuisine and making organic purchases. Additionally, the resort will be having a restaurant and will probably have a huge profit from having a reliable local supplier of fresh ingredients at the doorsteps of the luxurious resorts and eco-friendly hotels with high-quality ingredients and dishes throughout the cuisine. The most successful combination of these three strategies is essential for hotels looking to start down the path of sustainability. Hotels and eco-friendly resorts to have a luxurious stay are among the top priorities of consumers for the usage of electricity and water per surface area. According to research, this could be in part because visitors utilize energy in a carefree way in the hotel rooms, less carefully than they would at home. Another factor might be that energy-saving efforts in hotels must constantly be weighed against any potential harm to client enjoyment. Last but not least, there is a fantastic selection of eco-friendly furnishings and tapestries, fittings, and interior décor materials available today, which can minimize the new hotel's initial environmental impact and the cost overall because of the resources being saved. Devarshi Trivedi A practical introvert who is a physics enthusiast, mainly quantum and astro. Pursuing a bachelors degree in computer science engineering and always eager to grab new perspectives. Travelling to new places and mountains is an exploring passion.

Sustainability To meet global food needs while mitigating environmental issues, many nations and farm owners have adopted organic farming practices. In 172 nations today, there are 2.3 million certified organic farmers. More notably, the amount of agricultural land dedicated to organic agriculture is steadily increasing. Nonetheless, organic farming accounts for only 1% of overall agricultural land. The possible explanation for such a low presence of organic farmland is that organic farmers typically grow their harvests on relatively small surfaces than conventional farmers. Increasing health awareness results in more demand for organic products. This gave rise to entirely new sectors and industries like organic chain stores, green grocery delivery, and, most notably, sustainable food. Conventional agriculture relies mainly on artificial fertilizers and toxins, among other things, which access the supply of food, invade water resources, danger livestock, pollute soil, and severely damage natural ecosystems. Organic farming, on the contrary, strives to accomplish farming objectives without the use of fertilizers and pesticides by employing methods like crop rotation, organic manure, green waste, and biological pest prevention. This is an improved agricultural method because it produces safe and nutritious food while having no harmful effects on the environment. Understanding organic farming Organic farming is a method that avoids or limits the utilization of synthetically sourced fertilizers, pesticides, genetically engineered organisms, growth regulators, and livestock chemical additives. Crop rotations, the utilization of agricultural residues, livestock manure, nuts and seeds, organic manure, off-farm bio-waste, organic fertilizers, mineral-bearing rock formations, and elements of biological control are used to the greatest possible extent to sustain soil health and tilth, and control pest, weeds, and other insect infestation. Benefits of organic farming In recent years, an expanding amount of farmers have expressed a lack of enthusiasm for farming, and those who previously cultivated have relocated to other areas. Organic farming is a method of increasing self-sufficiency or food and nutritional security. Vast inputs of artificial fertilizers and synthetic pesticides heavily pollute the water and land. This has severe adverse hazards, which include topsoil loss, decreased soil quality, ground and surface water contamination, and genetic variation loss. Organic farming is thus important because it is a comprehensive production management method that encourages and improves agro ecosystem wellness, which includes biodiversity, ground biological activity, and biological cycles. Several research findings have proven that methods of organic agriculture can produce better yields than traditional farming. Significant differences in soil health factors, like microbial diversity and abundance and nitrogen mineralization potential can also be noticed in organic agriculture. Organic farms' improved soil health contributed to a significantly lower pest and incidence of diseases. Small-scale integrated agriculture systems can help revive rural regions and economic systems. Advantages of organic farming Economical: No pricey fertilizers, synthetic chemicals, or HYV seeds are needed for crop planting in organic farming. As a result, there is no additional cost. Excellent return on equity: A farmer can start making a high rate of return by using lower-priced and domestic inputs. High demand: Organic products are in high demand all over the world, generating additional revenue through export. Organic foods are much more nutritious, tasty, and healthy when especially in comparison to chemical and fertilizer-based products. Environmentally friendly: Organic agriculture is free of harmful chemicals and fertilizers, so it has no negative impact on the environment. Is conservation agriculture organic? Conservation agriculture and organic farming both use crop rotation to keep a balance among agricultural production and resources as well as protect the fertility of the soil. The main distinction between the two types of farming is that organic farmers use a plough or soil tillage, whereas conservation farmers use natural fundamentals and do not disturb the soil. Tillage is used by organic farmers to eliminate weeds without the use of inorganic fertilizers. Conservation agriculture farmers, on the contrary, plant seeds through a stable soil cover. Organic farming nutrient management In organic farming, it is critical to work continuously to create nutritious soil which is plentiful in organic matter and contains all of the nutrient content that the plants require. To increase soil fertility, a variety of methods such as organic manures, manure inclusion, and organic fertilizers can be utilized. These natural references not only add nutrients to the soil, but they also assist in preventing weed growth and boost organic matter in the soil, which feeds soil microbes. Soil with a high percentage of organic matter prevents erosion, holds more water, and therefore demands less irrigation. Natural minerals required by plants for growth and to enhance soil consistency could also be incorporated. To maintain the pH of the soil, soil amendments such as lime are incorporated. However, heavy metals in soil remediation and water should be kept to a minimum. The majority of natural manure used is reprocessed by-products of other industry sectors that would normally be discarded. Based on availability and crop viability, a variety of organic fertilisers/amendments, as well as fungus and bacteria bio-fertilizers, may be utilized in organic farming. When did the Organic Farming Movement begin? As the world's population started to rapidly expand, the demand for more sustainability in agriculture became evident. Unsustainable farming practices, which are solely focused on increasing yields, exacerbate global problems such as: Changes in the climate Biodiversity loss Erosion of soil Pollution of essential natural resources such as land and water The Fundamentals of Organic Farming Each nation has strict regulations regarding organic farming. Nonetheless, there are certain principles that all organic farmers follow. These are the following: According to the principle of health, organic farming is meant to safeguard and improve the well-being of all life forms. This involves both soil microbes and humans. The ecological principle states that organic farming must prevent and improve the environment, including the landscape, weather, natural ecosystems, biodiversity, air, soil, and water. The fairness principle seeks to provide environmentally and socially suitable management of natural resources, in addition to an adequate supply of high-quality food and goods. The care principle emphasizes preventative measures and responsibility as the main priorities in organic farm management. Organic farming combines traditional farming methods with innovative scientific research and modern agricultural innovations. Manuring and biological soil disinfestation are two examples. Various Organic Farming Practices Each nation regulates organic farming regulations and laws separately. As a result, different kinds of techniques are incorporated into various forms of organic farming. Although, there are certain popular organic farming practices shared by the majority of organic farmers: Crop rotation is a technique for preserving soil fertility and improving crop protection against pests. Organic nutrient management focuses on increasing organic matter in soils by manuring, incinerating, or mulching. Growing crop yields is a good practice for managing pest insects and weeds, trying to prevent land degradation, and improving soil nutritional quality. Many traditional farming techniques are still used today. Organic agriculture blends the best of old-aged, more traditional agricultural practices with advanced scientific expertise. So, should farm owners transition to organic agriculture or modernize via conventional farming methods? The answer is dependent on several factors. These consist of the category of the farm in the discussion, its site, the harvest in question, and its intended use. Will Organic Farming Replace Conventional? Consumer concern about organic food production and the impact of modern farming practices on the ecosystem, particularly animal welfare, is growing daily. Bhutan is an excellent example of the transition to organic farming. Bhutan, with a population of only 700,000 people, the majority of whom are farmers, has emerged as the world's first nation to convert entirely to organic farming. Down the road Organic farming is a conventional concept in India, with farmers preparing their land by not employing chemicals, relying primarily on by-products, cow dung, composts, and so on. This is also consistent with the promotion of sustainable farming to eliminate hunger, ensure food security, and improve nutrition. As a result, with increased consciousness and capacity-building adherence to international standards, Indian organic farmers would soon be reaffirming their righteous place in global Agri trade. Nishika Singh She's a writer by profession and an avid supporter of sustainable living in real time. She's passionate about poetry, yoga and living in the moment. Writing is her sanctuary and she continues to live by it.

Your Story image by Ashwini Chaudhary, Unsplash It took me an hour to come up with that headline, but it took me less than 5 minutes of thinking to land myself in the lap of the Parvati valley twelve hours later. Grinning from cheek to cheek, this is how I began my journey as a solo female traveller across the Parvati valley. As I stepped off the bus, my eyes couldn’t believe what lay in front of me; the majestic river Beas being taken into its lap by the Parvati valley. The Beas River was feared by tourists. As I stood there, I understood why. The river seemed to be engaged in a heated disagreement with the valley. The locals, who I later made friends with, told me the person I was looking for and had heard a lot about back in Delhi was no longer with us. They were smiling indifferently, which gave me the impression that they were content with their predicament—residing in the valley so close to peril. I experienced a shiver of loneliness that started at the back of my neck and travelled down my spine as I got off the bus. Whether this loneliness was brought on by the bustle of city life that I missed in Delhi, the deserted streets of the valley, or possibly the solitude that awaited me as I began my journey alone, I made my way over to the closest store outside the hotel hangout and enquired about directions. Confused by the accent of the shopkeeper, I walked over to two young men standing with their backpacks. As this was an impromptu vacation from the stresses of city life, I didn't have a plan in place, so I was essentially lost. I was perplexed by the idea that this didn't seem to be the solution to my problems, as I had been told back in Delhi, and I experienced no such epiphany. Uncertain of what to do and hesitant to approach the two men, I eventually mustered up the courage to ask, "Where are you guys headed?". I asked them if I could accompany them on their trip because this was my first time in Kasol, and they agreed after we had a satisfying and enjoyable discussion about the bus driver's reckless driving. As this was more of an impulsive, desperate reaction to my existential crisis, I followed them like a lost puppy as we moved in the direction of Chojh. We eventually arrived at a bridge—or what was left of it—after fifteen minutes of walking. The heated argument I alluded to earlier in the story was one I had personally witnessed now. The disagreement between Beas and Parvati led Beas to swiftly sneak in one night and sweep away the bridge that would have led us to Chojh village. Then, I was rendered speechless as my first eureka moment came in: the mortality of human lives. I was back there, a young, immature adult, in my literature class. Before I even understood what an existential crisis was, before it had a chance to sink its teeth deeply and seize hold of me, I was 18 once more. My professor had been harping on the idea that we have no control over what happens to us, only how we respond to it, as I recalled the class where we had learned about stoicism. We have no control over anything outside of ourselves. Only what is within us is under our control. Now I can see you, Seneca. We had to now take the road less travelled to get to Chojh. I set out on my journey with these two travellers once more through the mountains of the Parvati valley without any idea of what lay ahead of me. They told me there was only one way up, up the mountains, as we walked to the end of the road. To say I was shocked would be an understatement. I swore at myself for coming here during the monsoon and for choosing to do so. But I was here now, and this was my reality. I made the decision to make the most of it because, after all, what could possibly go wrong with a mountain hike in an area that is prone to flash floods? I could already feel the effects of my years of inactivity and smoking during the pandemic setting in as I stepped onto my first rock. I noticed my pace dwindling after a half-hour of walking. I looked down as I began to make an effort to get nearer to the two strangers who were leading me up and across the hill. I heard a squeak escape from my mouth as I struggled to comprehend what I was seeing. The remnants of the bridge that once connected Chojh and Kasol, as well as a flash flood. Image by Nikhil Kumar, Unsplash Death and horror engulfed my entire being as I caught my foot slipping away with the muddy remnants. A shriek escaped my mouth as I clung to the foot of a now-dead tree. One of the younger of my two companions ran to my rescue as I saw my life flash in front of my eyes within those 5 seconds. I cluck at his arm like a mother would cling to the lifeless body of her child. With only the bittersweet truth between the locals' indifferent smiles as my only wound, I was healthy and alive. Once more, the knowledge of the precariousness of the things that had crept into a remote, dusty corner of my heart began to stir from its sleep. I have a fresh sense of gratitude for being able to breathe life into my body each day as I sit here and write to you. After my life-threatening ordeal, which lasted merely a couple of minutes, I began to trek again with my two stranger friends. Through was the only exit from this journey. Thirty minutes later, still glued to the ground and the path, I finally pulled my head up to see houses peeking out from the hills. Above me, the mysterious Himalayas towered, exuding both danger and beauty. I noticed a group of women approaching us and conversing in what I assumed to be the Pahadi regional dialect as we drew nearer to Chojh. It appeared as though they were gracefully floating towards us as they moved through the muddy remnants with such ease. When we passed them, they grinned as they observed my struggle to take their usual route home. My two counterparts were doing fairly well; they seemed to have been trained to climb mountains; I’d like to believe that, for I am of a fragile ego. I started having trouble breathing as we drew near the houses. The dogs, who had been gracious enough to travel with us on our perilous journey, began to run down the hills rather than through the village. We chose to walk alongside them because we were curious about their destination. After a challenging descent, we reached the most breathtaking sight I had ever witnessed. It was the same flash flood that had devoured human lives a month ago. It sat there peacefully, as though its stomach was still full and that another attack of hunger was just a matter of time away. It echoed the peace and innocence of our other canine companions and was just as tranquil and innocent. We stood there trying to catch our breath as the dogs began playing in the water. The hour-long, arduous journey and the breathtaking beauty of the landscape in front of us were both tempting us to give up our humanity and merge with the flora and fauna of Kasol. Another lightbulb moment occurred to me as I moved toward the area of the river that resembled a beach where the dogs appeared to be engaged in playful fights. This time, it made me realize that my only anchor is the present. Varnika Jamla works as a content marketer but longs to teach literature. She is a reader by night and a writer by day, and while she dislikes talking about herself in the third person, there are times when she may give in.

Leisure The temple town of Bhubaneswar probably developed around the Lingaraja Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. According to historians, it’s said the city had originally 7,000 temples built over 700 years. At present only about 200 survive encompassed by the modern ‘smart city’ with its lofty aspirations. Bhubaneswar also bears witness to Buddhism’s fruitful tryst under Emperor Kharavela. His artistic accomplishments are glimpsed at the impressive Udayagiri and Khandagiri caves, about 6 km from the capital. Three monasteries at Ratnagiri, Udayagiri and Lalitgiri, about 100 km from the capital have also been excavated and are worth your time when travelling here. Given the importance of this city as a religious centre and its glorious past, it’s easy to understand why even after hiring German-Jewish planner Otto Koenigsberger to transform the city as a part of new India, the religious roots and sentiments meant that unlike other planned cities of India, the temple town and the capital city couldn’t be kept separate. This unintentional intermingling seems to have worked here - Where else in the world can you go for a morning walk in a temple complex dating back to the 12th B.C or have the unique street food and favourite morning breakfast of Odiya's Dahibara and Aludum while admiring the intricate carvings of Mukteshswara Temple. Apart from temples, the city has a number of India’s top academic institutions, information, biotechnology parks and is one of the few capital cities in India with a wildlife sanctuary within its city limits. Spurred by the rich tribal heritage of the state, Bhubaneswar has two dedicated museums where visitors can see and experience what the state has to offer in terms of their unique ethnic lifestyle, art, culture and handicrafts. Your Must Have Bhubaneswar Bucket List Street Art of Bhubaneswar Graffiti Art in Bhubaneswar particularly in the city centre has transformed its mundane streets into a riot of colours, with walls converted into canvases. A walking tour can be easily done ( broad pavements are present in most places ) to admire these beautiful artworks which are also a perfect backdrop for selfies. Temple Tour at Old City Temple tour around the holy pond of Bindusagar with morning breakfast near Lingaraja temple. Filled with alleyways, dotted with shrines, and beautifully preserved houses the cluster of temples around Bindusagar transports you back in time. The Old Town in Bhubaneswar is as exotic as it gets. Museum Trail in Bhubaneswar Go on a Museum Trail- Kala Bhoomi & Tribal Art Museums Kala aspire to be more than just a collection of unique objects. They celebrate the craftsmanship of Odia and create a dynamic and interactive learning experience by putting on display their breathtaking masterpieces. Experience Odia cuisine Odia cuisine is the perfect balance of taste and health. A trip to Odisha is incomplete without trying out Chhena Poda. Chhena Poda literally means ‘roasted cheese’ in Odia, and is made of homemade fresh cottage cheese and sugar which is baked for several hours before it turns brown and caramelizes. Another favourite is the Odia version of Dahibara – Dahibara Aludum. It is a type of chaat and is now a breakfast snack, prepared by soaking vadas in light dahi water which is tempered with mustard seeds and curry leaves and finally adding Aludum and Ghugni to it. Watch the sunset from Shanti Stupa at Dhauli Hill The Dhauli Hills provide a bird's eye view of the entire area, lush green agricultural lands and the river Daya and this is the place where King Ashoka laid down his arms after the bloody Battle of Kalinga and followed the path to Buddhism. Explore the Buddhist triangle of Lalitgiri, Ratnagiri, and Udayagiri These ancient archaeological sites were recently excavated and are filled with monasteries, stupas, relics, seals, stone tablets, and statues. These hills were formerly known as Ratnagiri, or the hill of precious gems, Lalitagiri, or the red hill, and Udayagiri, or the hill rising Sun. Migratory birds at Mangalajodi Mangalajodi is a small village in Orissa situated at a distance of about 70 km from the capital city Bhubaneswar. This village on the banks of Chilika Lake renders an eye-catching scenic beauty and attracts visitors for its vast wetlands with many migrating birds. Take a tour on county boats in meandering through narrow marshy waterways spotting a variety of migratory birds which flock to Chilika during winters ( November- March ) Insider’s Tips for Bhubaneswar Travel Plan your trip to coincide with annual events/festivals like Rath Yatra, Mukteswar Dance festival, Sand Art festival, Flower show, and Konark Dance festival to name a few. Don’t miss enjoying a cup of Koraput coffee at Ekamra Kanan Botanical Garden. Do a peaceful Morning safari at Chandaka Dampara Sanctuary. Try the Food Trucks opposite Ram Mandir or at Khao Galli KIIT Square serving some lip-smacking food. While heading to Puri make a detour to the artisan village of Raghurajpur. Puri, This small village has around 100 households making a living from artworks like Pattachitra ( painting on palm leaves), traditional masks, stone idols, paper mache, sculptures and wooden toys. When heading to the Shanti Stupa stop at the village of Hirapur where lies the forgotten Chausathi Jogini Temple. This circular open-roofed temple is one of the four surviving temples in India of the yogini cult which flourished in the country from the 8th Century AD to the 13th Century AD. Out of the four such temples two are located in Odisha (one in Hirapur and the other one in Ranipur-Jharial in Bolangir Dist ) and the other two are in modern-day Madhya Pradesh. Sustainable Eco-friendly Accommodation Head to Svanir, an eco-friendly wilderness homestay hiding in plain sight on the outskirts of Bhubaneswar. Four spacious cottages constructed from locally available materials, mimic the traditional tribal architecture and provide an ideal getaway for the weary traveller. The homestay is spread across one acre, compact and cosy and yet large enough so that guests can enjoy their own private corners - ideal for those who want to study or work in a quiet environment, or for simply resting after a full day wandering throughout the city. All rooms have their sit-out verandah and large windows with views. How to reach Bhubaneswar Biju Patnaik International Airport It takes about 45 mins from the airport to Svanir Homestay from where you can explore Bhubaneswar. Bhubaneswar Railways Station: Well connected with trains from all over the country and undergoing a major revamp to become one of the best in the county. Soumya Mukherji Once an aimless traveler now an entrepreneur, husband and a father. I'm passionate about photography, gardening and slow travel. Having worked in the travel industry for more than 12 years, I wanted to create a place where traveler's could come, relax and connect with each other. email: visit.svanir@gmail.com

Sustainability Image by Jeremy Bishop, Unsplash Do you want to learn, how to travel responsibly? Then the first thing you should do is learn the difference between the terms: sustainable tourism and responsible tourism. Why? Because both of these appear alike to the common eyes and are even mistakenly used interchangeably when it comes down to the discussion of saving the environment and tourism industry from exploitation. However, they do specifically refer to something different. Not only that, since many travellers do not fully comprehend what these terms mean, many rumours are spread out there that make responsible travel appear to be a severe or an impractical activity. In this article, we will look at both these terms and certain queries related to the tourism industry in detail including the importance of sustainable tourism and also some tips for responsible tourism. What is Sustainable Tourism? Let's start with the term "Sustainable Tourism". It basically refers to the approach of tourism that: Encompasses all aspects of tourist satisfaction, including consideration of social, economic, and environmental concerns. Meets the demands and expectations of today's tourism sector and host communities. Prioritizes protection of the environment, social equity, cultural diversity, and quality of life. Focuses on increasing a vibrant, effective economy that provides jobs and income for all. Doesn't jeopardize the capacity of future generations to cope using their own resources. Importance of Sustainable Tourism Conceptually, Tourism appreciates the most valuable areas of life and surroundings, be it the breathtaking landscapes, wildlife, forestry, cultural legacy, heritage, and of course the people. Tourism could certainly be a great turning point for higher economic growth by offering improved business and job opportunities, as well as economical funding for preservation. However, if tourism is not well handled, it could have a detrimental effect on people and nature, causing prolonged periods of pressure on local people and eventually leading to a decrease in tourism in the desired location. It is here where sustainable tourism comes into play. It helps maximize the value of tourism while reducing the negative effects on tourist attractions or destinations. The main ways to do so are: Safeguarding or preserving the vital ecological mechanisms of natural biodiversity, habitats, and native or wild animals. Establishing and supplying genuine visitor satisfaction that honours and preserves culture, tradition, and heritage. Providing long-term socioeconomic operations and services to citizens through income growth and job opportunities. Making the best use of natural assets, which are critical to tourism growth. What is Responsible Tourism? In a simple one-liner, responsible tourism is defined as travelling in a manner that enhances, supports, or favours the geography you are touring or trying to visit. It is all about: Being culturally as well as socially conscious when travelling, i.e., using basic logic. Acknowledge your influence on the places you visit. Attempting to make that impact beneficial. Importance of Responsible Tourism Responsible travel is about the journey, not the destination. Tourism is important. Each trip you take makes a difference in instances you wouldn't have realised. The Cape Town Declaration recognizes that Responsible Tourism as an important that: Reduces negative financial, environmental, and social consequences; Increases local employment opportunities, which strengthens the well-being of the local community; Improves employment opportunities and sector availability Necessitate the participation of residents in decision-making and lifestyle choices. Offers a more pleasurable experience for visitors through closer friendships with local residents and a larger awareness of cultural, social, and environmental concerns; Gives access to patients with disabilities and is culturally responsive, Inciting sympathy among tourists and residents and developing dignity and pride. Image by Luca Bravo, Unsplash In what way is "responsible travel" different from "responsible tourism"? To address this particular question, you must first recognise the distinction between a traveller and a tourist. Individuals referred to as "travellers" are those who move to another area. On the other hand, "tourists" are referred to as those who travel to some other location for the sake of joy or entertainment. A traveller is someone who gets totally involved in the locations to which they take a trip. A tourist is someone who only looks at the exterior or layers of the spots they visit. So, the difference between responsible travel and responsible tourism is that: When a traveller goes above and beyond the typical travel information in a travel guide, they are participating in responsible travel. For instance, studying some of the native dialects or languages to communicate with the residents of a different nation is one option. Responsible tourism occurs when a tourist, despite not being totally involved in the lifestyle or culture, takes actions that have a positive effect on the spots they visit. For instance, selecting a hotel with a sustainability policy over one that doesn't. How is Responsible Travel different from Sustainable Tourism? Sustainable tourism doesn't really refer to a particular type of tourism. It is rather about the desire for the effects of all aspects of tourism to be viable, maintainable, or preservable (sustainable) for the upcoming years. The attitude, actions, style, and behaviour of travellers are referred to as "responsible travel." The behaviours are consistent with having a significant influence on the desired location instead of an adverse effect. How to be a Responsible Traveler? (Tourist Responsibility Tips) Here are a few simple tourist responsibility tips to enable you to make your travel extra responsible and sustainable: Stay for a Few Nights Most of the time cities with a high level of day-tourism have people visit during the day and then consider leaving. Choosing to stay the night benefits hotels, motels, and other accommodation types. Save Water Shorten your showers to save water, particularly in locations where water is scarce. Also, you can bring a refillable water bottle and a travel filter with you. Water-conscious tourists could indeed assist in saving this asset by packing a refillable water bottle and stuffing it from the faucet. Help the Local Economy Try to dine in nearby eateries or cafes; buy locally-produced antiques and gifts; check out the local markets; hire a local tourist guide. In this manner, you can be certain that your money is spent directly back into the economy and on the people who will host you, rather than on some unknown business association. Explore Unpopular Locations People wanting to see the same spots repeatedly is indeed a possible explanation for 'over-tourism.' Especially when travelling in urban areas, there are notable landmarks or venues which you'll want to see. However, you must consider exploring other wonderful spots as well that can be discovered off of the main tracks. Reduce Transportation According to reports, tourism-related transportation emissions are expected to account for over 5% of total man-made carbon dioxide emissions by 2030. So, if you can, try to walk around. You can also start using cheap public train or community bus services. Paddle cycles is also a great option to explore the location. Avoid Buying Products Made out of Endangered Animals Alligator skin products, bushmeat, and tortoiseshell are just a few examples. The popularity contributes to illicit trafficking or trading, wildlife crime, and the decline of numerous lifeforms around the world. Avoid Bringing "Natural Souvenirs" The concept of having items such as the slow-growing queen conchs found throughout the Caribbean or colourful hawksbill sea turtle shells just about anywhere reefs exist may be appealing to some, but it is neither morally correct nor sustainable. Avoid collecting rare native wood like Guatemala, Mexico, and Belizean rosewood, or buying coral jewellery from shops as these will only cause a threat to the natural habitat. If you want to have souvenirs, buy something which is eco friendly and free from natural destruction. Reduce Waste! Do not throw around stuff like cans, bottles, napkins, etc. Put your purchases in a school bag or a cloth bag. Instead of just using plastic shopping bags from stores, Rather than ordering takeout, you can eat and drink at the cafe. Finally, Be Respectful Prepare for your trip by learning about the culture of the place. Take lessons on a few words, terms, or phrases in their language to wow the residents. Take note of local dress standards and follow them. Respect native social norms, especially in religious settings. You must get permission before photographing anyone. Let's Sum It Up! Thus, in conclusion, taking responsibility for travel and contributing to sustainable tourism is not an impossible thing to do, provided people are genuinely conscious about the places they visit. By following our guide, you will be able to educate yourself on the aspect of responsible tourism in today's society and will undoubtedly begin your journey to preserve our lovely planet. Nature provides us with so much, so why not gift it with care? By Priyanka Biswas She is a content writer and an avid traveller. She loves to write about various topics. She cares for Nature and sustainability.

In early September I went to Digha with my family. It was a short vacation after two years of never-ending lockdown. Digha is a small sea-facing town of Purba Medinipur in West Bengal. This town, for many years, has been the number one choice, especially for the people of West Bengal when they need a quick vacation. The major three beach locations I went to were Mandarmani, New Digha and Old Digha. Here is my experience of travelling to the coastal town of West Bengal. We had an early morning train from Howrah to Digha. I and my parents with my few relatives hopped on the train hoping for a nice mini vacation to Digha. Digha is well connected with Kolkata by road network and trains. From Kolkata, it's approximately 190 km and takes around 4:30 min by road. Digha, Mandarmani, Tajpur, and Shankarpur are on the same road few km here & there. There are several trains also. For Digha, you can avail of Digha railway station situated in New Digha. For Mandarmani you can either use Digha or Kanthi railway station. Day 1 Digha Old Digha, as the name suggests is the oldest part of Digha. The beach here is not ideally accessible for taking a dip as the whole trail of the beach is covered with boulders. Despite this hindrance, it is a beautiful place to visit. We visited the beach in the evening when it was crowded and lively. People were sitting along the guardrails made of marble to witness the waves crashing on the boulders. It was a full moon day with the high tide going on at that time so the waves crashed higher than they usually do. It was a surreal experience. That was the first time I saw waves crossing the guardrail. We also visited the Bishwa Bangla Market along the beach. It is very beautifully made; there are several different markets inside the area. There are several street food options along the beach that makes the area perfect for spending time in the evening. Visiting New Digha Again as the name suggests it is the newer portion of Digha beach. It is also very well constructed which helps visitors like us to sit at a safe distance along the beach and enjoy the view. This beach is suitable for taking a dip and also enjoying camel and horse rides. We went to the beach every morning and it was one memorable time of the whole trip. The early morning breeze of the sea waves crashing on the boulders was enjoyed by us with a hot cup of tea and egg toast. From new Digha, we booked a car to visit Udaipur and Talsari. Here, you will have numerous hotel options according to your budget. In general, Digha is affordable to common people, hence around the year, it's crowded. There are many sacks who cook food for you. You can visit the local market to shop for the fish of your choice, they will take care of the rest. The distance between Digha & New Digha is just 1.5 km. You can walk this distance across the beach road. Alternatively, you can higher a local toto or auto to transport between these two locations. You can also visit the Famous Chandaneshew Temple from here. This temple is situated in Odisha and approximately 6 km from New Digha. Apart from this, you can also visit Amaravati Park, Marine Aquarium etc. Talasari Beach Talasari is a quiet beach inside the Odisha border which can be easily accessed from Digha. We went there around noon during low tide. The sand on this beach has a mix of gold and black making the beach very picturesque. We clicked some really good pictures, collected some sea shells and went to Udaipur beach. Udaipur Wave Udaipur beach is like the beach of New Digha but does not have any marbled guardrails. There were some shacks selling grilled fish, crabs and prawns with beverages. The atmosphere here is as crowded as the New Digha beach. We took a dip here which was as always a very fun activity. Our day in New Digha ended with sitting all evening while watching the endless waves and bingeing on ice creams and papri chaat as we headed to our last destination Mandarmani. Day 2 Mandarmani Mandarmani is an exquisite place to visit if you want to avoid the hustling crowd of Digha. It was my favourite part of the visit. We stayed in a sea-facing resort. The view had us on its hold since the moment we entered the resort. It was low tide when we got inside the resort but the strong breeze said otherwise. It was unbelievably windy, unlike anything I saw in Digha. The best thing about the resort was it was right beside the beach so close that we were able to enjoy the view right from our balconies. We wasted no time and quickly went to the sea to take a nice dip. It was raining that day which made the experience better for all of us. The resort had a restaurant where we were able to get all kinds of food. The food was really good both quality and quantity wise. After our lunch, we quickly went back to enjoy the sea. Most of our time in Mandarmani was spent sitting on the balcony and enjoying the breeze. There was a time early in the morning around 5:00 am when the waves were so strong that they sometimes came inside the resort. That was something I never thought I would see. Return And just like that, the memorable vacation approached its ending. With heavy hearts, after breakfast, we left Mandarmani and reached Kathi Railway station for our train back to Kolkata. .

To promote tourism, the state government introduced various new trails and peaks in Uttarakhand. 30 new peaks and 10 new unexplored trails have been introduced to the tourists. These newly made available peaks are at an average height of 6000 mt. which tourists will be excited to be a part of. The new trailing routes are Narayan Parbat, Nar Parbat, Lamchir South, Lamchir, Bhagnyu, Pawagarh, Mahalay Parbat, Yan Buk, Ratnagiri and Nanda Lapak. The tourism department of Uttarakhand took this decision after passing the order by the central government which allowed travellers to explore 137 peaks spread across Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Sikkim and Jammu & Kashmir. Some of the new 30 peaks are Bhirgu Parbat(6041mt), Kali Dhang(6373 mt), Rishi Kot(6236mt), Avalanche (6443mt), Manda III (6510mt), Manda II(6529 mt), Rishi Pahar(6992mt). To prevent pollution of the peaks and trails, every trekking team must deposit 10,000 rupees as cautionary money which will be returned later. This new inclusion of treks is hoped to help the increase livelihood of the locals who depend heavily on tourism.

Leisure Image by: Shubham Dhiman, Unsplash India has a lengthy and fascinating past. The population is diverse, with each region, state, or territory having its own distinct culture. One such location in our nation that is worth visiting is Delhi. The National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi has historical landmarks, monuments, palaces, old tombs, and temples that have helped the tourism sector of India develop over the years by bringing in a steady stream of visitors. It is also home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites—the Qutub Minar, Humayun's Tomb, and the Red Fort. It includes New Delhi, the capital of India, which is renowned for its cleverly planned structure. Rashtrapati Bhavan, Parliament House, and the Supreme Court of India are all located here. Prominent Tourist Locations/Attractions of Delhi Agrasen Ki Baoli Akshardham Temple Connaught Place Chandi Chowk Dilli Haat Humayun’s Tomb India Gate Jama Masjid Jantar Mantar Lodhi Gardens Lotus Temple National Zoological Park Purana Qila Qutub Minar Red Fort Image by: Kamal Preet Kaur, Unsplash Agrasen Ki Baoli Agrasen ki Baoli, also known as Ugrasen ki Baoli, is a well-preserved historic step well in New Delhi. It is 60 meters long, 15 meters wide, and has 108 steps. There are only three levels visible, and each one has arched niches on both sides. The Baoli or Bawdi (also referred to as Jassi, Baori, or Bauri) is situated on Hailey Lane, adjacent to Hailey Road and close to Connaught Place. Additionally, it is relatively close to other significant Delhi landmarks like the India Gate and the Jantar Mantar. This must-see location in Delhi is used for photography, videography, as well as filmography. Akshardham Temple The Akshardham Temple (Akshar means "eternal" and "Dham" means "abode"), sometimes referred to as the Akshardham Delhi or Swaminarayan Akshardham, is acknowledged by the Guinness Book of World Records as the largest and most elaborate Hindu temple in the world. Situated near the borders of Noida, this temple was officially inaugurated on November 6, 2005. The temple is 141.3 feet long and 316 feet broad, featuring about 20,000 idols, 234 exquisitely carved pillars, 20 quadrangle peaks, and 9 intricately designed domes. Under the main dome is the 11-foot-long statue of Bhagwan Swaminarayan, surrounded by sages. The statues of other Hindu deities are made of the 'Panch Dhaatu', a blend of five metals: copper, gold, iron, silver, and zinc. Image by: Rehan Fazal, Unsplash Connaught Place Connaught Place, commonly abbreviated to "CP," is one of the most important and largest business, commercial, and financial centres in New Delhi. Connaught's Inner Circle, Connaught's Middle Circle, and Connaught's Outer Circle are the three main concentric circles that make up this magnificent building. W.H. Nichols came up with the idea of this circular form that is famous worldwide. Known for hosting national and international brand stores, flea markets, lavish hotels, and restaurants, this is the ninth most costly place to rent in the world and the best place to spend the weekends. Visitors to Connaught Place love the equinoctial sundial, Jantar Mantar, and Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, which has a magnificent pool, the Sarovar. Not only that the vibrant Delhi nightlife, which can be enjoyed at spots like Kitty Su, is also located in Connaught Place. Image by: Aquib Akhter, Unsplash Chandi Chowk Chandni Chowk is one of Delhi's oldest and most prominent markets. Situated near the Old Delhi Railway Station, this is a significant historic location and is widely known for selling a wide variety of products, including electronics, clothes, jewellery, perfumes, and mouth-watering food. The Parathe Wali Gali in particular is a must-visit for its wide selection of parathas, including the Aloo Ka Paratha and Bhindi Paratha. Additionally, spots like the Chaatwallah, Gole Hatti, Jalebiwala, Natraj's Dahi Bhalle, etc. will enrich your experience at Chandni Chowk. The Red Fort monument is situated at Chandni Chowk's easternmost point. Additionally, visitors can see the Fatehpuri Mosque. Image by: Barun Ghosh, Unsplash Dilli Haat The Dilli Haat is a 6-acre outdoor marketplace with around 62 shops selling regional food and handicrafts from around India. Pitampura, Janakpuri, and INA are the three haats (markets) here. The Delhi Haat INA, which is located directly across from the INA Market in South Delhi's commercial district, is the most well-known among them. Beads, brassware, decorated camel hide shoes, elegant cloth and draperies, gems, jewellery, metal crafts, rosewood and sandalwood sculptures, and silk and wool fabrics are examples of products commonly available in this market. To promote handicrafts and handlooms, exhibitions are held in Haat's exhibition hall. Additionally, Dilli Haat also organizes a variety of cultural events, such as dance and music shows. The Sarojini market, which is close to Dilli Haat, draws a lot of young people since it sells stylish clothing and accessories at incredibly low prices. Image by: Sagar Dwivedi, Unsplash Humayun’s Tomb The Humayun's tomb is the final resting place of the Mughal Emperor Humayun. Situated in Delhi's Nizamuddin Eastern region, the tomb appears to be the earliest structure in India to be constructed in the Mughal style of architecture and is one of the best-preserved Mughal structures. Not only that, it was the first garden-tomb on the Indian subcontinent as well as the first structure made of red sandstone. In 1993, UNESCO designated this well-known Delhi tourist destination as a World Heritage Site. The arched alcoves, corridors, and double dome of the tomb are all influenced by the Persian design. Image by: Shalender Kumar, Unsplash India Gate The All India War Memorial, also known as India Gate or Delhi Memorial, is a massive 42-meter-high sandstone arch gate. It is situated along Rajpath, near the eastern end of New Delhi's "ceremonial axis," which was originally known as Kingsway. This colossal gate serves as a memorial to the 84,000 British Indian Army personnel who lost their lives in World War I (1914–1918) and the Third Anglo-Afghan War (1919). 13,300 names of Indian martyrs are carved on the surface of this gate. The Amar Jawan Jyoti, built in December 1971 to honour Indian Army troops who achieved martyrdom, is located directly beneath the archway. India Gate's massive structure is a sight to behold, and at night, when the fountain's colourful lights go on, it is even more beautiful. Visitors can take their families on a picnic near India Gate or just have a rejuvenating morning stroll. Jama Masjid Image by: Dewang Gupta Unsplash The Jama Masjid, also known as Masjid-i Jehan-Numa, is the second largest mosque in India. It was built between 1650 and 1656 by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan and serves as a great representation of the golden age of Mughal architecture. The mosque, located close to the Red Fort and Connaught Place, was built over six years by around 5,000 workers. There are many entrances, but only three of them permit tourists into the mosque: Gate 1 on the southern side; Gate 2 on the eastern side; and Gate 3 on the northern side. Originally, the Gate 2 eastern entrance was only meant to be used by royals. The mosque's beautifully appealing structure is composed of red sandstone with vertical white marble strips and two 40-meter-high minarets. It consists of four towers, the southernmost of which provides a breathtaking view, making it another must-visit location in Delhi. Image by: Barun Ghosh, Unsplash Jantar Mantar The Jantar Mantar is one of the five oldest enormous sundials and astronomical observatories built by Maharaja Jai Singh II. The observatory is situated on Parliament Street, just south of Connaught Circus, and is equipped with thirteen masonry-built astronomical instruments composed of brick shards and lime plaster. This scientific wonder was used to create astronomical records and forecast the movements and times of the sun, the moon, and the planets. While reliable readings are currently difficult due to the nearby large buildings or towers, it is nonetheless worthwhile to explore this noteworthy city landmark and A UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tourists can have a great time admiring the massive triangle gnomon, which is a quadrant of a circle with the hypotenuse parallel to the equator. Image by: Devesh Sangwan, Unsplash Lodhi Gardens The Lodhi Gardens is a stunning park with architectural marvels on exhibit all around. Known earlier as the Lady Willingdon Park, the place was constructed during the Lodhi dynasty's rule. The garden is about halfway between the Safdarjung Tomb and Khan Market and covers 90 acres (360,000 square meters) of land. The place showcases an outstanding fusion of captivating greenery and majestic tombs and mosques from the 15th and 16th centuries. The main tombs are of two Delhi sultans: Sikandar Lodhi, monarch of the Lodhis, and Mohammad Shah, the ruler of the Sayyids. Lodhi Gardens is the ideal location for family activities, such as picnics, in the midst of a quiet and calming natural environment. For residents, it has also become an ideal place for morning and evening workout routines. The sunset views are extremely beautiful in this garden. Image by: Sreehari Devadas, Unsplash Lotus Temple The Bahá's House of Worship, also known as the Lotus Temple because of its unusual flower-like design, is an excellent piece of modern Indian architectural work. The Temple is one of the most popular places of worship in the world, open to people of all races, religions, cultures, and castes. It is situated on a 9.7-hectare plot of land in South Delhi next to Nehru Place and Kalkaji Mandir. The structure has nine sides made up of 27 free-standing, marble-covered "petals" placed in groups of three. Nine doorways lead into a central hall with a ceiling height of just over 34 meters and seating arrangements to accommodate 1,300 people. Built by architect Fariborz Sabha, the Lotus Temple has won various architectural awards. In addition, it was printed on the Rs 6.50 Indian postage stamp and was highlighted in many newspaper and magazine columns. National Zoological Park The National Zoological Park, also known as Chidiya Ghar, is a popular weekend destination in Delhi for both adults and kids. The National Zoological Park was founded in 1959 and is regarded as one of the top zoos in Asia. This 176-acre (71 ha) zoo, close to the Old Fort, provides a habitat for some 1,500 animal and bird species, including those from Asia, Africa, and Australia. Tourists visiting the area will have a great experience riding on battery-operated electric vehicles and sighting African Wild Buffalo, Asiatic Lion, Axis Deer, Banteng, Black Buck, Brow-antlered Deer (Sangai), Chimpanzees, Cobras, Emu, Elephants, Gir Lion, Hyena, Hog Deer, Hippopotamus, Indian Rhinoceros, Indian Sand Boas, Jaguars, Lion-tailed Macaque, Macaque, Rhinoceros, Spider Monkey, Swamp Deer, and the magnificent Royal Bengal Tigers. Bird watchers will always be in awe of the sight of exotic birds like the Great Indian Hornbill, Peafowl, and Red Jungle Fowl. Image by: Barun Ghosh, Unsplash Purana Qila Purana Qila is an Urdu name that translates to "Old Fort." It covers 1.5 square kilometres of land and is located in New Delhi close to the banks of the Yamuna River. The National Zoological Park and the massive Pragati Maidan exhibition arena situated on the Delhi-Mathura route are also not far from it. The fort was initially built during the reign of Humayun but was finished by Sher Shah Suri, for whom it is also known as Shergarh or Sher Fort. The fort is aesthetically pleasing for the tourists mostly for the white and blue-tiled marble decorations on the bastions and gates. There are 3 entrances: the Bara Darwaza, also known as the Big Gate, which faces west; the Humayun Gate, which faces south; and the Talaqqi Gate, also known as the Forbidden Gate. These gates are two-storeyed and involve massive semi-circular bastions on either side of them. Image by: Maahid Photos, Unsplash Qutub Minar The Qutub Minar, which is part of the Qutb complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a uniquely stunning and preserved minaret of India. Situated in Mehrauli, this 238-foot (72.5-meter) tower is the second-tallest structure in Delhi. This elaborate five-storeyed structure is built from a variety of stones. Red sandstone makes up the first three storeys, while sandstone and marble were used to construct the fourth and fifth stories. The Alai Minar, is a 2,000-year-old iron pillar, a 1310 gateway, and the tombs of Altamish, Alauddin Khalji, and Imam Zamin are all part of the site. In addition to all of this, the tower is surrounded by a lovely garden where visitors can unwind while taking pictures of the tower's intimidating silhouette. Image by: Steven Lasry, Unsplash Red Fort The Red Fort, also known as Lal Kila is a massive historical fort in Delhi, fully constructed of red sandstone. There are numerous fairytale structures located inside the perimeter of the red fort. The two main notable structures within the Red Fort are the Diwan-i-Khas (or the Shah Mahal) and the Rang Mahal (or the Imtiyaz Mahal). Inside the Red Fort, there is another renowned structure called Diwan-i-Aam, or the Hall of Public Audience. A series of palaces and pleasure rooms, an elaborate mosque, protruding balconies, geometric gardens, indoor canals, and spas are all enclosed within the fort's enormous 75-foot (23-meter) tall walls. There's also Son et Lumière, an amusing light and sound show. Chatta Chowk, a covered market that sells food, souvenirs, jewellery, silks, and silverware, is accessible by the Lahore Gate. All of these together make the Red Fort a must-visit in Delhi with friends and family.

Leisure Image by: Tatonomusic, Unsplash The union territory of Andaman and Nicobar Islands is an Indian archipelago made up of around 572 beautiful islands, of which only 37 are inhabited. These stunning islands, which are situated at the meeting point of the Bay of Bengal and the Andaman Sea, have sparsely populated beaches with turquoise blue water that paves the way to an ocean rich in fascinating marine species and coral reefs. The North Bay Island at Port Blair, Elephant Beach at Havelock Island, and Bharatpur Beach on Neil Island are among the beaches that are considered to be the most exotic. Visitors can engage in a variety of water sports, such as scuba diving, snorkelling, sea walking, etc. The three main districts that make up this union territory are the Nicobar District, whose capital is Car Nicobar; the South Andaman District, whose capital is Port Blair; and the North and Middle Andaman District, whose capital is Mayabunder. They are all covered in thick, wet, evergreen forests, as well as an infinite variety of unique flora and fauna. The Dugong also referred to as the sea cow, is the state animal of Andaman. In addition, the endangered Andaman Wood Pigeon and the Andaman Padauk have each been designated as the State Tree and State Bird respectively. Tourists can also gain an in-depth understanding of the fascinating and diverse past as well as the modern aspects of these peaceful and serene islands, by visiting sites like Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, Sippighat Farm, Ross Island, Viper Island, Hopetown, Mount Harriet National Park, and the old Cellular Jail, which has become a popular tourist destination. Best Places To Visit In Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Port Blair Havelock Island Neil Island Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park Sippighat Farm Ross Island Viper Island Mount Harriet National Park Cellular Jail Chidiya Tapu Samudrika Marine Museum Baratang Island's Limestone Caves Radhanagar Beach Kalapathar Beach Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex Image by: Sumit Shah, Unsplash Port Blair Port Blair is the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. This is the biggest town situated on Southern Andaman Island. It has excellent ferry networks to all the other islands, including Havelock, Little Andaman, Long Island, and Neil Island. The town is growing into a hub for tourism and is also cosmopolitan, providing a taste of rich cultural diversity and regional traditions, including those of the main inhabitants: Bengalis, Burmese, Nicobarese, Tamils, and Telugus. The scenic beauty of Port Blair consists of a confluence of the most captivating landscapes; rocky coastlines; and tropical forests. Visitors can also enjoy some leisure time at the well-known Corbyn's Cove Beach close to Port Blair, do birdwatching at Chidiya Tapu, and shop at Aberdeen Market. Apart from these, Port Blair has a deep history of colonialism, making the Cellular Jail and all of the museums there a must-see. The three popular islands close to Port Blair are Havelock Island, Ross Island, and Viper Island. There's also Barren Island known for its only active volcano. Image by: Ravigopal Kesari, Unsplash Havelock Island Havelock Island, also often referred to as the Swaraj Island, is the largest Andaman island that is a part of Ritchie's Archipelago. Tourists from all around the world come to admire the vast rice and paddy fields or lush green tropical jungles with unusual flora and fauna, stunning white sand beaches, and coral reefs. Radhanagar Beach, Vijayanagar Beach, and Elephant Beach are three of their popular and beautiful beaches. Visitors flock to these waters to participate in a variety of water sports activities, such as snorkelling, scuba diving, sea walking, surfing, glass-bottom boat rides, swimming, banana boat rides, speed boat rides, and diving. Camping and jungle hikes are common land-based past times. There are also many lavish cafes and resorts where one can enjoy fresh coconut milk and recently caught scrumptious fish. Image by: Ravigopal Kesari, Unsplash Neil Island Neil Island, also known as Shaheed Dweep, is a small island located on the southern side of Andaman. Coconut palms, blue seas, tropical jungles, stunning and colourful coral reefs, diverse flora and fauna, and serene, lovely beaches can all be found here. The Indian government has recognized Neil Island's soil as naturally organic, preserving the freshness and quality of the crops or vegetables while keeping it chemical-free, fresh, and hygienic. In fact, due to the large harvest, Neil Island even provides vegetables to the entire Andaman. However, in contrast to the other Andaman Islands, Neil Island avoids the usual hustle and bustle of the crowds. The island only has five villages, with a total population of about 3000. One can easily take a hammock and a book to either of the three main sandy beaches—Bharatpur Beach, Sitapur Beach, or Lakshmanpur Beach—and enjoy the serene and calming sea breeze. Image by: Debal Das, Unsplash Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, also known as Wandoor National Park, is a place where marine life is conserved and is situated close to the Wandoor beach on the southwest coast of the Andaman Islands. The 17 islands that make up the nature reserve are arranged in a labyrinthine pattern. Together they form part of the Rutland Archipelago between Rutland Island and South Andaman Island. This park features some of the most beautiful marine life in the world like coral reefs, mangrove creeks, rainforests, and breeding sites. The resting sea turtles can be found here. It is also the breeding site for more than 50 unique and beautiful fish species including many threatened fish species like angelfish, butterflyfish, giant robber crabs, grouper fish, lion or scorpion fish, and surgeon fish. Image by: Nabil Naidu, Unsplash Sippighat Agricultural Farm Formed in 1959 as the "Soil Conservation and Demonstration Center," the Sippighat Agricultural Farm was turned into a horticulture farm in 2003. It is. The Sippighat Agricultural Farm, which extends over 80 acres, is still being developed and operated by the government of India and the Central Agricultural Research Institute. The goal of the research is to improve horticulture not just in the Andaman Islands but also throughout India. Tourists are permitted to have a close look at the small demonstration plot, which has a narrow pathway encircling it where all the plants are being grown. The aroma of a wide range of spices, including cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and even pepper fills the entire farm, and visitors can familiarise themselves with the method by which these are grown. The farm's main appeal is several migrating bird species, like the Andaman teal, Eurasian Curlew, Large Falcons, Mongolian Plover, Narcondum Hornbill, Osprey or Fish Eating Eagle, Pacific Golden-Plover, and White-bellied Sea Eagle. Image by: Deepak Kumar, Unsplash Ross Island Ross Island often referred to as Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island, is a small island in the South Andaman region. It served as the British Administration's headquarters in the early 1900s, and the British referred to it as "Paris of the East". The site is now home to some must-see ancient ruins of buildings constructed during the British era and is therefore a popular vacation spot. The most significant buildings include the Officers' Quarters, the Chief Commissioner's home, the Cathedral, a dilapidated church from the British era, and the Graveyard of the Britishers. All these buildings are surrounded by the roots, trunks, and vines of several hundred-year-old trees on the island. Tourists who visit the island are certain to have a superb, breathtaking view of the adjacent islands and the possibility of seeing a variety of wildlife near the sea, including deer, ducks, and even peacocks. Image by: Niket Malpani, Unsplash Viper Island Viper Island is yet another island in the South Andaman area of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The island is named after the vessel, H.M.S. Viper, which was involved in an accident, and the remains were discovered close to the island. The region was well-known during British colonial authority since it served as a jail for political prisoners and criminals. It is also said that the island got its name because there were a lot of viper snakes dwelling there. Viper Islands has developed into a popular tourist attraction due to its historical significance, like the gallows on top of a hill mixed with beautiful and serene natural surroundings. Spotted deer are often spotted on this island. Tourists will also pass by Port Blair's main port and navy ships on their way to the island. Image by: Nabil Naidu, Unsplash Mount Harriet National Park Mount Harriet National Park is a 46 sq km park that serves as a habitat for some of the rarest and most unusual plant and animal species. The site is without a doubt the most stunning of the nine national parks located on Andaman Island. It gets its name from the third and most prominent mountain on the Andaman Islands, Mount Harriet, which rises 365 meters above sea level in Port Blair's Ferrargunj Tehsil. Along with having some of the most stunning beaches, the national park offers hikers and nature lovers a 16-kilometre Mount Harriet to Madhuban trekking experience full of breathtaking and unforgettable landscapes. It is home to 90 different bird species, 11 of which are endangered. The best time to visit the park is between March and October to spot Andaman serpent eagles, Andaman wood pigeons, orchids, red water lilies, as well as other wildlife. There are an estimated 27 species of reptiles and amphibians, among which the significant ones are King Cobra, Andaman Cobra, two marine green sea turtles, and Olive Ridley. The park is also home to 12 different kinds of mammals, including the rare Andaman pig, shrews, and bats. Image by: Jeshika Sinojia, Unsplash Cellular Jail National Memorial The Cellular Jail, popularly referred to as "Kala Pani," is a former colonial prison situated near Port Blair. It is the most popular and must-see tourist destination in the Andaman Islands. The jail was used by the British to detain political prisoners and criminals. The massive building now functions as a national memorial. The 698 cells of the three-story structure are linked to one another in the form of a starfish. The names of prisoners and the states they were from are written on a pillar and along the walls at the end of the passageway. The location is well-known for its amazing evening light and sound display that provides a glimpse into the historical struggle for freedom. Image by: Vows on the Move, Unsplash Chidiya Tapu Chidya-Tapu, also known as Andaman's Bird Island, is the ideal home for several rarely seen migratory and native birds, such as emerald doves, parakeets, and sea eagles. The Chidiyatapu Biological Park, Chidiyatapu Beach, and Mundapahad (Black Mountain) are the main features of this park. Other than these Sunset Point provides stunning views of the sun setting into the vast Bay of Bengal. The miniature zoo at Chidiya Tapu is also a must-visit for tourists. The island is surrounded by dense forests and abundant mangroves, making it a perfect place to go trekking. Samudrika Marine Museum The Samudrika Marine Museum was constructed by the Indian Navy as part of their effort to promote awareness of marine life. It is located in Delanipur, Port Blair, directly across from the Andaman Teal House. The exhibition hall of the site is divided into five gallery sections that outline the history, geography, and anthropology of the Andaman Islands including detailed information about the tribal communities and plant and animal life. This museum also has a small aquarium with a variety of fish, coral, and shell exhibits. A blue whale skeleton that washed ashore on the Nicobar Islands is also on display. In addition to this, Haddo on Andaman Island has a small zoo where saltwater crocodiles are bred. Image by: Amit Jain, Unsplash Baratang Island's Limestone Caves The naturally formed limestone caves on Baratang Island offer a distinct artistic delight to nature lovers. These caves, located in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, were carved out of enormous sedimentary rocks and are covered in countless glowing stalagmites and stalactites. Visitors must carry a torch with them when they enter the caverns because the interiors are deep and dark. The long boat ride to the caverns passes along a beautiful coastline covered in mangrove trees of the Jarawa forest. Tourists even sail past canals covered with mangroves, beautiful beaches, and mud volcanoes that add to the excitement of the whole journey. Image by: Abhijit Chirde, Unsplash Radhanagar Beach Radhanagar Beach, which is located on the western coast of Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep), was declared "The Best Beach in Asia". The breathtaking beauty of the beach is mainly complemented by palm trees, pearl white sand, shallow coast, curvy shoreline, and crystal-clear turquoise blue water with quiet and pleasant waves. Radhanagar Beach is also a popular spot for sports like boating, canoeing, fishing, kayaking, scuba diving, seabed walking, and snorkelling. To top it Radhanagar Beach has vast forests nearby filled with countless forest animals and birds. Image by: Sakshi Mohapekar, Unsplash Kalapathar Beach Beautiful Kalapathar ("Black Stone") Beach gets its name from the black pebbles or stones that stick amid the white dunes. Small shacks flank the beach, offering a wide variety of savoury and sweet foods. The mesmerizing view of sunrise and sunset and a few scattered tree trunks that have fallen across dunes add to the beauty and offer great scenery for photography. On the beach, you can also purchase beautiful souvenirs and handmade items. There is a narrow trail that goes to the nearby forests, which originally served as an elephant training base. During the mango season, tourists can enjoy fresh mango and coconut juices. Tourists can also have thrilling adventures via boat. Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex The Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex also referred to simply as the "Andaman Water Sports Complex," is among Port Blair's most popular tourist attractions. Much like the majority of the Andaman sites previously mentioned, the facility today acts as a memorial for the struggle between the Andamanese and the British in 1859, also known as the Battle of Aberdeen. In addition, the sports complex provides tourists with a wide range of exciting and fun water sports activities, such as parasailing, rowing, paddling, banana boating, speed boating, snorkelling, scuba diving, sea walking, etc. The facility has two main entrances, one to the jetty and the other to Marina Park. This park is fantastic for relaxing and other wellness activities like strolling, jogging, yoga, etc.

Prayagraj, the religious city of Uttar Pradesh, India, will be hosting Mahakumbh 2025 and is soon to have an International Airport. As per recent reports, Prayagraj secured 13th position among all the domestic airports in India and this convinced the Government to take this decision. Mahakumbh is the largest religious gathering of pilgrims all around the world. Pilgrims from around the world visit Mahakumbh to take a dip at the Holy Ganga. During the last Mahakumbh which was also hosted in Prayagraj, around 120 million people attended the festivities. The locals and the Government, hope that with the opening of the international airport there will be better and easier communications. This will make the Makakumbh of 2025 more accessible to foreign travellers and Hindu pilgrims all around the world.

A pedestrian (non-motorable) pathway will be built around Wular Lake in Kashmir. This development will bring more people to the area, which will help the economy. During the recent Wular Festival, the division commissioner talked about plans to build a path around the lake so that people can enjoy the natural beauty of the area. This year, a record number of, tourists have come to the Valley, and the walkway will only add to the lake's appeal. The lake is in the town of Bandipora, which is in North Kashmir. It is one of the largest lakes in Southeast Asia. This lake is a great example of how rich this place is in terms of natural resources and it helps keep the area's biodiversity. Wular Lake is one of India's biggest freshwater lakes, covering nearly 200 square kilometres. The lake's basin is thought to have been made by the movement of tectonic plates, which makes it stand out. Wular Lake is also at the top of the list of places where bird watchers go. Here, you can see rare species like the alpine swift and the Himalayan woodpecker. The people who live around the lake are also happy about the news since it will help protect the lake.