The beginning of January brings with it a host of winter festivals. One of these is Lohri, a Punjabi folk festival that traditionally marks the end of the cold season. The day precedes Makar Sankranti, which marks the transition of the sun from the zodiac of Sagittarius (dhanu) to Capricorn (makara). Lohri is a harvest festival where farmers harvest rabi...

　　The air—fresh and crisp yet misty from the previous day’s downpour—invigorates my lungs. The cascading water, glistening tropical foliage and a lush canopy of forests act like a balm for my pollution-fatigued Delhi eyes. 　　I’m in Ezhattumugham, a hidden gem 40 kilometres from Kochi, Kerala, which provides a delightful addition to my recent sojourn to better-known Athirapilly. Nestled in a...

　　India’s national parks attract millions of tourists every year. In the 2023-2024 financial year, Kaziranga National Park alone saw 3,27,493 footfalls, while Bandipur National Park registered 1.4 million visitors in 2023. Recently, the Bombay High Court issued a notice to Maharashtra’s chief conservator of forests after viral videos emerged showing safari vehicles carrying tourists obstructing the path of a tigress...

　　Madurai, a vibrant and culturally rich city in Tamil Nadu, is the epitome of Dravidian architecture in the South – and it is also called the Athens of the East. Well-known for its rich history, spiritual significance, prominent temples, and thriving Tamil culture and literature, this city is a unique blend of history and modernity. Whether roaming around the 'bazaars'...

　　When you're on the move, whether you're jet-setting to a new destination or exploring a hidden gem, a reliable travel watch is more than just an accessory—it's a vital tool. The right timepiece can do more than keep you on track; it can elevate your travel experience with features like multiple time zone tracking, water resistance, and durability. For men...

　　'Humans are more of a menace in these parts, the fence was erected to curb instances of unwanted trespassing,' Sagar replied warily to my pressing query about an unsightly, metallic fence that had caught my eye. An aesthetic blot on the landscape, it looked woefully out of place. A naturalist by profession, Sagar seemed to understand my guarded inquiry, and...

　　As 2025 kicks in, the season of festivities powers into fourth gear with Makar Sankranti (held on January 14). The first festival of the calendar year, it marks the first day of the sun's transit into the Makara (Capricorn), signalling the end of the month with the winter solstice and the start of longer days. Celebrated all across India, this...

　　The past few years have been peppered with clear evidence of a climate and biodiversity crisis edging dangerously beyond our control. While most of humanity takes things for granted, a group of individuals sees things as they are - the environment is in a precarious state and saving our world will require all of us to step up. These green...

　　Vrindavan, a sacred town steeped in the divine tales of Lord Krishna, is often synonymous with its bustling temples and festivities. However, beyond its renowned shrines lies a quieter, less-explored side of the town, offering an intimate glimpse into its rich history and spiritual charm. From ghats to hidden temples, these offbeat destinations in Vrindavan cater to those who seek...

　　As the New Year unfolds, West Bengal transforms into a vibrant tapestry of cultural and spiritual experiences, particularly in January. The crisp winter air, the gentle mist rolling over the rivers, and the rhythmic hum of festivities beckon travellers to explore the state’s unique traditions. This is the time when two iconic fairs—Gangasagar Mela and Kenduli Mela—spring to life, offering...