Karnataka continues to gain popularity among tourists on the back of its biggest attraction – the Nightlife of Bangalore, the markets of Mysore, etc. However, there are some hidden gems that remain unknown. Today we bring you a list of Bangalore’s hidden wonders
1. Bidar
Bidar’s wealth of monuments is simply inconceivable – with 61 monuments of which at least 30 are tombs. It has been associated with the Mauryan empire and finds a mention in Mahabharata, Harivamsa, Bhagavata, Purana, Malavikagnimitra, etc. The monuments here though were mostly built by Muslim rulers.
2. Anegundi
A 20 km ride on State Highway 49 from Hampi will take you to the next item in our list of Karnataka’s Hidden Wonders – Anegundi. It is claimed this almost forgotten town served as the Kishkindha, the kingdom of monkey kings Bali and Sugriva mentioned Hindu epic Ramayana and which was also the abode of the monkey god Hanuman. Anjanadri Parvatha is believed to Lord Hanuman’s birthplace and has a temple dedicated to him right at the top. Apart from that, there is not much to see here apart from the lush greenery. That said, Anegundi has a history far older than Ramayana – and is said to have been settled in for four billion years based on researches carried out by geologists who have found stone age traces here.
3. Badami
The first in our list of Karnataka’s Hidden Wonders is Badami. In its most glorious days, Badami was the capital of Badami Chalukyas but now it is a relatively forgotten town though it still stands in all its splendor. Among the sites to see is Agastya Lake next to which are cave temples design in Dravidian architecture, made of two giant sandstone hills.
4. Arbi Falls, Dashrathnagar, Manipal
Arbi falls are located at a distance of 5 kilometers from Manipal which, in turn, is located at a distance of mere 64 kilometers, the nearest major tourist destination of Karnataka via NH 66 and SH 67. From the base of the hill, the falls is just a small hike away. This hidden wonder of Bangalore is relatively unknown to the mainstream tourists and thus a nice peaceful place – far more peaceful than more popular waterfalls and thus making it second in our list of Karnataka’s Hidden Wonders.
5. Shivagange
Third, in our list of Bangalore’s Hidden Wonders Despite being located so close to Bangalore, Shivagange peak continues to get ignored by the tourists. For locals, though it is an important Hindu pilgrimage site. The site of the worship comprises of Shivalinga-shaped mountain and a spring that comes out of it locally known as Ganga. The site is also home to sculptures of Nandi or Basavanna that are brilliantly carved on the top of a steep rock. You can reach the site after an easy hike too.
There are some other temples nearby – and you must also see the cave temple of Sri Gangadhareshwara that, if mythical legends can be believed, is connected by a secret tunnel to the garbha griha (sanctum sanctorum) of another temple to the Gavi Gangadhareshwara temple in Bengaluru.
6. Augumbe
Now something that fiction lovers can’t ignore, this relatively unknown town has been labeled as Cherrapunjee of South. However, the reason why it makes to our list of Karnataka’s Hidden Wonders is it’s having served as the basis of Sahitya Academy Award-winning author RK Narayan’s magnum opus Malgudi Days.
If you have a nostalgia for the imagined town of Malgudi immortalized by Narayan’s works, you must visit the Malgudi Mane here. We also recommend watching the sunrise on Kundadri Hills.
7. Bijapur
Established around a thousand years ago, by the Chalukyas of Kalyani, Bijapur was initially christened as Vijayapura or the City of victory. If you are a history freak, the lack of Bijapur’s popularity might bewilder you. The city has several historical monuments like Ibrahim Rauza, Gol Gumbaz, Anand Mahal, umma Masjid, Jod Gumbaz, J Saat Manzil, Jal Manzil, etc – mostly built during the rule of Adil Shah dynasty, still waiting to be recognized by the tourism industry. It is this very lack of popularity though which has earned it a place in our list of Karnataka’s Hidden Wonders.
8. Mullayanagiri
Mullayanagiri is named after the great sage Mullapa Swamy, a temple to whom is dedicated to the peak of the mountain. Despite its location near Bangalore and it’s being one of the best if not the best trek in the state, Mullayanagiri fails to attract tourists.
8. Shivanasamudra
Shivasamandua is a small island town where Kavei drops down to form to incredibly beautiful waterfalls -Gaganachukki and Bharachukki which are together called the Shivanasamudra falls and earn it a place in the list of our list of Karnataka’s Hidden Wonders.
The town also has ancient temples such as those dedicated to Sri Ranganathaswamy, Sri Someshwara, etc that constructed in the Dravidian style of architecture.
9. Shettihalli
The Church here, Shetttihali Church is also known as the Submerged Church and the Floating Church and is the next item in the list of our list of Karnataka’s Hidden Wonders. It was built by French missionaries in the late 1800s and later become an abandoned sight with the construction of the Hemavati which leaves it partially submerged during monsoons.
10. Chitradurga
Next in our list of Karnataka’s Hidden Wonders is Chitradurga, claimed by many to be the birthplace of Hidimba and Hidimbi, the demon brother-sister duo from the Mahabharata. The place is home to rocky hills and beautiful valleys a fort known as Kallina Kote or a stone fortress that has 18 temples.
According to a legend, Obavva, the wife of a guard, once single-handedly managed to kill several soldiers of Hyder Ali’s (Tipu Sultan’s father) army who were trying to infiltrate into the fort with an Onake (which is a long wooden club meant used by women pounding paddy grains), before giving in to her injuries.
11. Marvanthe
Next in our our list of Karnataka’s Hidden Wonders is Marvanthe. Marvanthe is home to Karnataka’s most amazing sea beaches. A drive on National Highway is another valuable experience worth having as you drive between the Souparnika river which flows right next to the Arabian Sea.
12. St. Mary’s Island
Last in our list of Karnataka’s Hidden Wonders is St. Mary’s Island. Named as one of the 26 Geological Monuments of India in 2001, by the Geological Survey of India, the island is supposed to the place where Vasco De Gama first landed before he ‘discovered’ India. According to the legend, it was he who named the island upon landing here.
Conclusion
Even with this additional list of attractions, we can’t fully enumerate all the wonderful places there are in Karanata. There are, for example, Talakadu, the temple town of Banavasi, Karkala, Gadag, Bylakuppe, etc – not to mention Hampi which we believe has made it to the list of prominent attractions ever since the publication of V. S. Naipaul’s infamous book ‘India: A Wounded Civilisation’. But we do hope this gives you some ideas. Tell us what other places should have made it to this list in your opinion. Do tell us in the comments below. J
India is a land of festivals – a title it earns from the diversity of cultures and religions it is home to and which it celebrates.
In fact, you can safely bet that at any given time of the year, a festival or event of some sort is being celebrated in India. And thus we take up one month, February 2020 and tell you all about the festivals and events in It.
Here we bring you a list of festivals and events of India in February 2020:
1. Surajkund International Crafts Mela
One of the biggest exhibitions of the world attracting over a million tourists, Surajkund International Crafts Mela top our list of festival and events in February 2020. The mela is characterized by carts selling handlooms, handicrafts, etc from artisans who have corn from all over the country to sell their products. There are also open-air theatres and cuisines. There is a ticket to be bought every day that has a nominal price ranging from 120 INR on weekdays to Rs. 180 on weekends.
When is Surajkund International Crafts Mela?
From 1st to 17th Feb 2020
What to eat at Surajkund International Crafts Mela?
The cuisine of different states of the country finds its way to this mela so you won’t be lacking for choices for what to eat in here.
How to reach The Surajkund Crafts Mela?
You can reach by metro rail, road or train at your convenience. The nearest metro station to this ma is Badarpur Metro station and you can take an auto or cab to reach the venue. The nearest railway station is the New Delhi Railway station. Surujkund is well connected to the major cities of North India by roadways.
2. Kala Ghoda Arts Festival
Next in our list of festivals and events in February 2020. Is Kala Godhara Arts Festival. Another festival which will let you enjoy the diversity of culture in India, the festival is marked by arts, dances, plays, music gigs, food stalls, etc. Unlike the Surajkund festival, Kala Ghoda Arts Festival requires no entry cost.
When is the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival?
1st – 9th Feb 2020
How to reach Kala Ghoda Arts Festival?
The festival is held in Mumbai which is well connected to the rest of the country by air, water, and road.
What to eat at the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival?
The festival is being held in Mumbai and so you can expect the richest variety of cuisine here.
3. Sula Fest
A much smaller event than the previous two, Sula Fest is third in our list of festivals and events in February 2020. It tempts the tourist in you with famous Indi artists, singers, musicians (like Nucleya, Infected Mushroom, Indian Ocean, The Raghu Dixit Project, Infected Mushroom, Bloc Party, etc) with the flavor of the wine. This 3-day fest of ecstasy costs you a pass which must be secured in advance and costs about 5500 INR (for the entire 3-day long festival).
When is Sula Fest?
From 1st to 3rd Feb 2020
When is Sula Fest held?
Sula Fest is being organized in Sula Vineyards near Nashik for the tenth time in 2020. The nearest airports to Nashik are in Pune and Mumbai. Nashik itself has a major railway station connecting it to the rest of India. Roadway connectivity is equally strong.
4. Matho Nagrang Festival
The next item in our list of Best festivals and events in March 2020, Matho Nagrang takes us to Matho monastery, Ladakh. The serene monastery belongs to the Sakya School of Tibetan Buddhism. It is a Buddhist festival that invokes the divine spirits to help solve problems and predict the future. On the two days of festivals, two selected monks stay in isolation where they would meditate for two months in order to call on the divine spirits. The other monks celebrate by wearing colorful costumes, wearing masks symbolizing different gods and enacting performances. The two monks then come out and make predictions and guide local people who have come from far regions for the very purpose of getting their queries and doubts answered. Rich cuisine is also prepared. This is a fascinating festival which is very lively and filled with colors as the other monks join the celebration in colorful costumes and the whole atmosphere is lively.
When is Matho Narang Festival held?
From 1st Feb to 1st March 2020. The celebrations are held in the last two days.
Credit: Holidify
5. Adoor Gajamela
Adopt festival is third in our list of best festivals and events in February 2020. It is ten days long annual celebration held at Sree Parthasarathy Temple, Kerala. The word ‘Gajma’ means elephant and this festival is about a profession of elephants. There are also cultural shows, dance shows, and celebration and it is an amazing chance to taste the locks cuisine. You can shop for souvenirs in stalls and listen to regional music. There are also offerings made to Lord Krishna. The best thing about this festival is that you get the chance to watch the elephant parade in which nine elephants are decorated in a grand manner and made to walk towards the temple.
When is the Adoor Gajmela festival held?
4th Feb 2020
Credit : backwaterbreaks
6. Udaipur World Music Festival
Music lovers can’t afford to miss the next in our list of Festivals and Events in February 2020 to tempt the tourist in you. Udaipur World Music Festival is attended by over 150 artists all over the world. Traditional, cultural, folk, as well as more modern forms of music loved by the younger generation, are all included.
When is Udaipur World Music Festival held?
From 7th to 9th Feb 2020
7. Alwar Festival
This tourism festival of Alwar comes next in our list of Festivals and Events in February 2020 to tempt the tourist in you. It takes place for three days in February and celebration includes fair, elephant polo, fancy dress competition, sketching competition, flower show, film shows, etc Like with other fairs, you won’t be lacking for shops to buy souvenirs together.
When is the Alwar festival held?
From 7th to 9th Feb 2020
8. Jaisalmer Desert Festival
The next event in our list of Festivals and Events in February 2020 to tempt the tourist in you is a festival with a difference. Jaisalmer Desert Festival has a number of unique and amusing events to attract your attention including competitions like Best Moustache competition, Turban tying, Mr. Desert Pagean, etc held in Jaisalmer Fort.
When is the Jaiselmer Festival held?
From 7th to 9th Feb 2020
9. Thaipooya Mahotsavam
Head to Sree Subrahmanya Swamy Temple in Payyanur Kerala for the next item in our list of Festivals and Events in February 2020 to tempt the tourist in you. Thaipooya Mahotsavam is a religious festival that celebrated Lord Murugan, the God of Hindus. It is famous for its rituals (pilgrims carry a curved wooden arch with decorations (kavadi) and dancing towards the temple), colorful celebrations (fireworks, devotees piercing themselves with lances in their cheek or tongue) and the art forms that characterize it.
When is Thaipooya Mahotsavam?
February 8, 2020
10. Mahindra Blues Festival
It is attended by performances from artists from all over the world converging and performing at one place in the posh suburb of Bandra, Mumbai. The festival held yearly since 2011 is worth attending even for the price of the pass that comes to nearly 4000 INR. It is thus a favorite in our list of Festivals and Events in February 2020 to tempt the tourist in you
When is the Mahindra Blues Festival?
On 8th Feb 2020
11. World Sufi Festival
Yet another festival in our list of Festivals and Events in February 2020 to tempt the tourist in you that music lovers can’t afford to miss is Word Sufi Festival. Mehrangarh Fort will be illuminated with 5000 small oil lamps and many poets, dancers, musicians, artists, fashion and films will be performing in celebration of the great legacy of Sufi religion. There will also be workshops and shows. You can stay in a tent within the fort to get the maximum pleasure out of the festival.
When is World Sufi Festival?
From 11th to 15th Feb 2020
12. Shekhawati Heritage Festival
The Shekhawati region of Rajasthan is the land of Rajputs. Rajputs of region are famous for their colorful celebrations and this heritage festival, that makes it to our list of Festivals and Events in February 2020, is a tribute to their rich culture. This festival is celebrated in many venues in Rajasthan like Nawalgarh, Churu, Dikar, Jhunjhunu etc. Nawalgarh is the location we recommend. You can enjoy many workshops, rural games, exhibitions,food courts, fireworks, cattle fairs, stalls, award ceremonies etc.
When is the Shekhawati Heritage Festival?
From 12th to15th Feb 2020
13. Elephanta Festival
Elephanta Festival is next in our list of Festivals and Events in February 2020 to tempt the tourist in you. It is a two-day festival that is conducted near Gateway of India, Mumbai. As the name suggests, it is dedicated to the famous heritage site of Elephanta caves of Mumbai. In fact it yes to be held at Elephants Island but had to be shifted due to the large size of the crowd it would attract.
When is the Elephanta Festival held?
From 13th to 15th Feb 2020
14. Pariyanampetta Pooram Kattakulam
The next event in our list of Festivals and Events in February 2020 to tempt the tourist in you is Pariyanampetta Pooram Kattakulam. It is a seven-day event in Kattukulam of Palakkad district in Kerala. Other common attractions include a procession of elephants, folk dances, arts, rituals, etc all come together in this annual celebration at Pariyanampetta Bhagavathy Temple.
When is Pariyanampetta Pooram Kattakulam?
From14th to 20th Feb 2020
15. India Art Festival
Mumbai has yet another contribution in our list of Festivals and Events in February 2020 to tempt the tourist in you in the form of India Art Festival. It aims and does provide a platform to artists throughout modern art fair, art galleries, art collectors and connoisseurs at one platform. The forms of art include paintings, sculptures, drawings, installations with video and digital art from over 400 artists. There are also panel discussions and workshops. The cherry on the cake is that the entry is free. The art lover won’t want to let go of such an opportunity.
When is the Indian Art Festival?
From 17th to 20th Jan 2019
16. Taj Mahotsav
Taj Mahal, one of the seven wonders of the world is the venue of the next item in our list of Festivals and Events in February 2020 to tempt the tourist in you. The ten-day festival is held near the Eastern gate of the Taj Mahal, Agra where there is a splendid display of Indian culture and traditions. This festival is gaining lots of popularity in recent years.
When is Taj Mahotsav?
From 18th to 27th Feb 2020
17. Konark Festival
The five-day festival coming in our list of Festivals and Events in February 2020 to tempt the tourist in you is the Konark festival held in Natamandir (open-air auditorium), inside Konark Temple of Odisha. Though initially it was created to preserve the dying folk dances, several other art forms have also found a platform in this festival.
When is the Konark Festival?
From Feb 19th to 23rd of every year
18. Natyanjali Dance Festival
Natyanjali Dance Festival is a weeklong festival and forms the next item in our list of Festivals and Events in February 2020 to tempt the tourist in you. Celebrated in Nataraja temples, dedicated to Lord Shiva who is showed in dancing poses, around Tamil Nadu. To have the best of this festival, head to Natarajar Temple of Chidambaram, a temple town of Tamil Nadu. The festival is marked by traditional dance performances from Dancers around the world. The festival is celebrated Chennai, Nagapattinam, Kumbakonam, Thiruvanaikoil, Thirunallar, Mayavaram, Thanjavur, etc.
When is the Natyanjali Dance Festival?
From 21th to 28th Feb 2020
19. Maha Shivratri
Maha Shivratri is next in our list of Festivals and Events in February 2020 to tempt the tourist in you. Though the festival dedicated to Lord Shiva is celebrated throughout the country, we recommend heading to cannabis and enjoy the cannabis drink there among other celebrations such as dancing to devotional songs.
When is Maha Shivratri?
On 21st Feb 2020
20. Goa Carnival
This is a color riot to see as Goa celebrates its annual carnival with much pomp and show. There are grand processions, great food, dance and music performances etc. The procession goes through the city of Panjim and other major cities to spread the message of merrymaking. The Goa carnival culminates with Red and Black Ball dance and the crowning of King Momo (Ball takes place at Clube National in Panjim). The end of the festival also marks the beginning of Lent which is time when people abstain from consuming rich foods like meat, alcohol etc.
The next item in our list of best Festivals of India in March that will leave you backpacking is Goa Carnival held from 22nd to 25th Feb is Goa Carnival. The festival is a legacy of the years of Portuguese rule. This tremendously festival is marked by spectacular and colorful floats parades, dances, music and of course awesome food.
When is Goa Carnival?
From 22nd to 25th Feb 2020
21. Losar Festival
Tibetan New Year, as the Losar festival is called in other words, is one of the most important festivals for the Tibetan population of India and thus could not be ignored while compiling our list of Festivals and Events in February 2020 to tempt the tourist in you. Ladakh, Sikkim, Dharamshala, Arunachal Pradesh, etc are some of the areas where you can go to join the celebration. Masked dance performances and Bushiest cuisine are some of the best things about this festival.
When is Losar Festival?
From 24th to 26th Feb 2020
22. Khajuraho Dance Festival
Khajuraho is a deceptively small town of Madhya Pradesh despite the rich history and cultural heritage it stands as a mark of. Every year dancers gather here from 25th Feb to March 3, 2020, and show their art as long as it shares the theme of mythology including Tandava dance, Raas Leela dance, etc making it a natural member in our list of Festivals and Events in February 2020 to tempt the tourist in you.
When is Khajuraho Dance Festiva?
from 25th Feb to March 3, 2020
23. Nagaur Fair
After Sonepur Mela, the second-largest cattle fair of the country is held in Nagaur, Rajasthan. The Nagaur Fair is a 4-day event felling on 30th Jan to 2nd Feb next year and thus makes it to our list of Festivals and Events in February 2020 to tempt the tourist in you. While you will see lots of camels, horses, and Bullocks; there are also performances by artists, camel races, tug of wars, etc.
When is Nagpur Festival?
From 30th Jan to 2nd Feb 2020
24. World Sacred Spirit Festival
This festival celebrated in Jodhpur makes it to our list of Best Festivals and Events in February 2020 on the back of its celebration of scared spirit which goes beyond the boundaries of all religions. The festival, much like many other festivals, is marked with folk music, spiritual art, dance, etc as artists from all over the world gather at Mehrangarh Fort of Jodhpur to perform on this festival that falls from 17th to 20th Feb and thus is a part of Festivals and Events in February 2020 to tempt the tourist in you.
When is World Sacred Spirit Festival?
From 17th to 20th Feb.
25. Deccan Festival
The next item in our list of Festivals and Events in February 2020 to tempt the tourist in you is the Deccan Festival. It is held by the tourism board in Hyderabad every year from 25th to 29th Feb 2020 and is the next item in our list of best festivals and events in February 2020. The festivals are marked by a display of art, culture, music, poetry and culinary delight. Plenty of opportunities to buy souvenirs as you have the option of choosing from countless souvenirs from around the region.
When is the Deccan Festival?
from 25th to 29th Feb 2020
26. Hampi Festival
Also called the Vijaya festival, the Hampi festival falls on 25th to 27th Feb 2020 and is the next item in our list of Best temples and festivals in India. The festival focuses on the heritage and history of the Vijaynagar Empire and is dated from the times of that great medieval empire. Art, puppet shows, elephant processions, Light and Sound Shows, music, dance, and spiritual celebrations come together to form the mix that is this festival.
When is the Hampi Festival?
From 25th to 27th Feb 2020
Last words
Here we bring this list of Festivals and Events in February 2020 to tempt the tourist in you. How many of them managed to tempt you?
Brazil recently waived off visa requirements for tourists from Japan, Australia as well as the US in June this year. And now in the month of October, a few days back, Brazil President Jair Bolsonaro announced that he wished to allow greater contact with India and China and that is why Brazil was ending visa requirements for the citizens of both the countries.
The citizens of these countries, including India will be able to enter Brazil for a period of 90 days without a visa and stay is extendable for another 90 days. The procedure is not vice versa as Brazilians still require a visa to enter China.
For visiting India however, Brazilian nationals can avail eVisa for visiting in five categories such as Medical Visa, Medical attendant, Business visa, tourist visa, and conference visa.
The visa-free entry to Brazil is all set to lead to a 25 percent increase in Brazil tourism with tourists from India and China increasing their visits to Brazil compared to the year 2018.
What does visa-free travel to Brazil mean for Indians?
The visa fees for Brazil before this decision was taken used to be Rs. 6400 per person. A tourist had to apply for a visa one month beforehand and then go through complex procedures of fulfilling the Visa criteria, filling up the forms and attaching all relevant documents before getting a Visa for 90 days. But now, Indians need only their passport to travel to Brazil visa-free making the travel a lot less complicated and cheaper.
What places to see in Brazil?
Brazilian Beaches: Brazil has over 2000 beautiful beaches and over a thousand islands that one can spend their time at.
Natural Wonders: Brazil is mainly known for its Amazon Rainforest and Iguacu Falls. The country also has many National Parks and conservation areas.
Celebrations: Cities in Brazil like Rio, Salvador and Olinda have wonderful celebrations and a carnival which is a treat for the tourists. Many tourists visit Brazil during the Brazilian New Year i.e. Reveillon.
Try out the Brazilian cuisine: Brazilian Fish Stew and Barbecue has gained international fame through top-notch restaurants in the world. Brazilian food is much more than just the Barbecue though and the country’s native ingredients have inspired many chefs giving birth to an entire culinary chain of Brazilian food. You can try out local cuisines in the shape of street food or visit authentic restaurants.
Explore Rio for an entire day: Rio de Janeiro is one of the major tourist hubs of Brazil and one day is not enough to explore the cities ins and outs but you must spend a day in Rio to see the popular spots like “Christ the Redeemer” statue, the Sugarloaf mountain, Selaron steps and don’t forget to get a good guide to explain the history of these landmarks to you. You can also cruise around Guanabara Bay during the sunset for an unforgettable spectacle. You will get a chance to glide by the Museum of Contemporary Art along the cruise.
Sun was one of the most worshipped gods in the ancient world. Whether it be Apollo of Greeks or ‘Sol Invictus’ of Romans or Ra in ancient Egypt. In Hinduism too, the Sun god Surya or Aditya occupies a prominent place. He had an active role to play in Mahabharata as the father of Karana. Several temples have been built to worship this source and sustainer of all life on Earth besides finding shrines in several temples dedicated to Shiva.
Unlike with other ancient civilizations mentioned above, the Indian Sun temples still attract faith and several pilgrims visit these temples and dip in the sacred tanks connected with them with belief that it would cure them of leprosy, blindness, skin diseases etc. Again, Sunday is the special day for worship and thus these temples are more crowded than is normal during those days. Besides being specimens of the brilliant architecture of ancient India, these temples are not without the cultural influence of other civilizations.
The remains of an ancient Sun temple are found at Martanda near Srinagar in Kashmir, so one wonders how many of the Sun temples have fallen prey to the tides of the time. The following ones though have survived:
Major Sun Temples
1.Konark Sun temple
A world heritage site and one of the Seven Wonders of India, Konark Sun Temple of Odisha is grandest and one of the best-known sun temples of India. Built in the shape of a gigantic chariot and stone wheels, first rays of sunrise strikes the principal entrance in the temple. This seven-hundred-year-old temple is the best product of Orissian religious architect. The very name of the town ‘Konark’ means sun. It is situated 64 kilometers from Bhuvneshwar and twenty miles from Puri
Labeled as the Black Pagoda by European travelers for its blacktop, the Konark Sun temple is the most famous landmark of Orissa state. It is designed in the form of the suns chariot drawn by the seven horses symbolizing the 7 days of the week. The twenty-four large and magnificently carved wheels symbolize the hours of the day. This temple dream child of the Ganga ruler Narasimha Deva is still incomplete. The main idol of the Sun God is said to have been removed by some Portuguese navigators. The temple now consists only of the sabhamandap and the natamandir as the main temple crumbled down many years ago. Despite having seen its best of days, the temple continues to inspire awe among art lovers from all over the world.When viewed from inland at the time of sunrise,, the chariot-shaped temple appears to emerge right from the depths of the blue sea carrying the sun.
How to reach Konark Sun Temple?
Take the bus ride from Bhubaneshwar ISBT. The distance is about sixty-four kilometers.
2.Sun Temple, Gaya
The Magdha region has been mentioned repeatedly in ancient epics for Sun worship. Dakshinaarka Sun temple in Gaya is one of the ancient Sun temples in India. The Dakshinaarka temple at Gaya in Bihar is one of the most Sun temples in India. Offerings are made by hundreds of pilgrims to their ancestors at Dakshina Maanas tank – one of several spots on this temple complex. What might interest you is the way Sun god is dressed in the central image with a belt and boots in somewhat West Asian style.
Please note that Dakshinaarka Sun temple is not the only Sun temple in the region. Gaya is home to at least two more notable Sun temples – the Uttaraka temple located near the Uttara Maanas tank and the Gayaditya temple on the banks of river Falgu.
How to reach Dakshinaaka Sun Temple?
Gaya is a major junction in itself for both road and rail transport. After reaching Gaya, take a taxi to reach the temple.
3.Modhera Sun Temple
Built-in 1026, Modhera Sun temple stands on banks of Pushpavati river in Mehsana district of Gujarat. The architecture of the temple is such that, as in the case with Konark Sun temple, the rays of the Sun would fall on the image of Surya at the time of equinoxes. The splendid Shikaras are unfortunates no longer survive but Torana, stepwell, Pillars, Garbhagriha and a tank in front still survive. The carvings on the outside are simply amazing and are the stage for Modhera dance festival. Like With the Sun god at Dakshinaarka temple of Gaya, the image here shows Sun god with a belt and boots.
How to reach Modhera Sun Temple?
From Gandhinagar, drive for eighty-four kilometers on Ahmedabad-Palanpur road to reach Modhera.
4.Surya Pahar Temple, Assam
This ancient temple complex situated near Goalpara town of Assam has several sculptures of twelve-armed Vishnu, rock-cut Shivalingas and remains of the Ganesha and Hari Hara. A circular tables with 12 images of Sun god in a circle with his father. Kashyapa in the center is enshrined here. This Sun temple despite its artistic brilliance is, unfortunately, one of lesser-known Sun temples of the country.
How to reach Surya Pahar Sun Temple?
Goalpura town is 157 kilometers drive from Dispur, the capital of Assam.
5.Suryanar Temple, Kumbakonam
Suryanar Temple or Suryanar Kovil Temple is the historic temple complex in Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu. It enshrines all other planetary deities as well – Chandran, Angarakan, Brihaspati, Budhan, Sukran, Saniswaran, Rahu and Ketu. This Dravidian temple is at least eight centuries old and stands out from among the several hundred temples of the region.
How to reach Suryanar Sun Temple?
Drive 131 kilometers on National Highway 36 from Pondicherry to reach the holy town of Kumbakonam.
6.Surya Narayana Temple, Arasavalli
Shri Surya Narayana Swami Temple is located in Arasavalli in Srikakulam district of Andhra Pradesh. This magnificent temple is said to have been built by a Kalinga King and is really well persevered over 13 centuries of its existence.
How to reach Surya Narayana Temple Sun Temple?
Arasavali is connected with Hyderabad by airways, railways, and roadways. You can also drive to Arasavali from Hyderabad. Though the distance of 727 kilometers is too big.
7.The Bhramanya Dev Temple at Unao in Madhya Pradesh
The Brahmana Dev (Baramju) Sun temple is located at Unao near Jhansi in Madhya Pradesh. The stone idol of the Sun God in this temple stands on a brick platform covered with black plates. Twenty-one triangles that symbolize the 21 phases of the sun are engraved in the shrine. A brass cover protects this idol.This temple was patronized by the Peshwas. Besides Sun temple, you can also visit Balaji temple of Unao, another popular tourist spot of the region.
How to reach Bhramanya Dev Sun Temple?
Jhansi is a major railway junction. It is about a hundred kilometers from Gwalior on National Highway 44. Jhansi is connected to Lucknow by railways as well as roadways. The roadways distance is about 315 kilometers (National Highway 27). Jhansi is also at more or less same distance from Bhopal (National Highway 44). Besides the advantage of being closer than the other two cities mentioned, Gwalior also has the advantage of boosting its own Sun temple which is discussed below.
From Jhansi, Unao is another thirty kilometers on Balaji Unao road.
8.Martand Sun temple, Jammu
This ruins of this temple are just five miles from Anantnag city of Jammu. The word ‘Martand’ is another name of Sun god, Surya. The temple was destroyed by Sutan Sikander Butshikan. Despite being in ruins, it has been considered a national monument and protected by the government.
How to reach Mortand Sun Temple?
There is no direct public transportation to Anantnag from Srinagar. Instead, hire a taxi or drive for two hours on National Highway 44.
9.Sun Temple, Gwalior
Sun Temple of Gwalior has a design similar to that of Konark Sun temple and is a famous pilgrimage center.
How to reach Gwalior Sun Temple?
Gwalior is really well connected to the world via airways, railways, and roadways.
Minor Sun Temples
1. Sun Temple, Ranchi
Situated on Tata-Ranchi road, 39 kilometers from Ranchi, this beautiful Sun Temple is one of the best tourist attractions of Jharkhand.
How to reach Ranchi Sun Temple?
Drive for thirty-nine kilometers on Tata-Ranchi road.
2.Sun Temple, Katarmal, Uttarakhand
Situated in the thick deodars forest of Kumaon hills near Almora, this Sun temple has beautifully carved pillars and wooden doors. If you ever decide to see Nanital, then this beautiful sun temple is not too far away
How to reach Katarmal Sun Temple?
The temple is 80 kilometers drive on National Highway 109. The location itself is full of a natural tranquility. The beauty of location rivals that of Nainital.
3. Surya Narayana Temple, Domlur
Located just 8 kilometers away from Banglore, this Sun temple is a must-visit if you ever travel to Bangalore.
How to reach Suryan Narayana Sun Temple of Domlur?
Drive for eight kilometers on HAL old airport road and MG road to reach Suryan Narayana Sun Temple of Domlur.
Conclusion
If you are inspired to visit these Sun temples, we advise you to plan your visit on Sundays if it is for religious reasons and on other days to avoid crowd if you are attracted to the architectural beauty of these temples.
Are you one of those who love to plan your holidays in advance? If your answer is yes, we have a holiday plan for you which offers you the chance to have 12 big getaways within 2020 by making use of some big weekends covering it all – mountains, beaches, adventures, festivals, etc.
If you are one of those people who love to plan their holidays and apply for leaves much before everyone else in the office – though we have tried our best to ensure you won’t need a leave-in most cases, the list of long weekends in 2020 will come in handy for you. Modify this plan to make one of your own and you can apply leaves in advance.
January 11 to 13
Lohri a popular holiday falls on January 13 every year which in 2020 happens to be Monday. Along with the previous two days, it gives you enough time for the perfect weekend.
Suggested places to visit:
Although you can go anywhere, there is no place better than Punjab to be around Lohri. We recommend making Amritsar as your destination. Visit Lohri Mela there; the prestigious golden Temple, the most important religious spot for Sikhism, and Jallianwala bagh which still has the aura of terror created by the 1919 massacre there.
February 21 to 23
Mahashivratri falls on February 21 in 2020 which is a Friday and thus adds an extra day to your weekend.
Suggested place to visit:
Ujjain is one of the best places to celebrate it. Mahakaleshwar Temple is one of the 12 jyotirlingas. The festival is celebrated on the banks of the local river Kripa. According to the local legend, Lord Shiva took residence here on request of citizens of Avanti (the ancient city later renamed as Ujjain). The request was made after Shiva vanquished Dushana, a demon who tortured the people of Avanti. Kal Bhairva Temple, Ram Mandir Ghat, Bharatihari Cave are some of the other spots you can visit.
March 7 to 10
The colorful festival of Holi falls on a Tuesday in 2020. Thus you might have to take a leave on Monday, March 9, but it shall leave at your disposal a 4 day weekend from March 7 (Saturday) to March 10 (Tuesday).
Suggested Place to visit
Where better to go to celebrate Holi if you can go to Mathura and/or Vrindavan. The two towns of spiritual importance being connected to the life of Lord Krishna have many amazing temples to offer. And Holi is a popular festival here being a festival being much loved by Lord Krishna himself.
April 2 to 6
A gazetted holiday Ram Navami falls on April 2 (Thursdays) and another Mahavir Jayanti falls on April 6 (Monday). Weekend falls on April 4 and 5. if you can take a leave on April 3 (Friday). Even if you do not get the leave you still have a 3 day weekend (April 4 to 6).
Suggested places to visit
The longest weekend of the year is best celebrated by going to Karbatsk. You will find with us a five-day itinerary that will help you get the best of Odisha – including it’s a holy triangle of Bhuvneshwar, Konark Sun Temple, Puri, Chilka Lake and many other amazing spots with evenings on sea beaches also included.
April 10 to 12
Good Friday is always on Friday and a gazetted holiday always adds to your weekend. Just 3 days since you came back it is time already to go backpacking again.
Suggested places to go
The twin towns of Mussorie very deservedly called the ‘Queen of Hills’ is the perfect place to go to. If you are still tired from your last weekend travels, the holiday will be very laid-back lazying in the cradle of Himalayas. If fancy has you to see places; there are several to be found here – Kempty falls, mall road, Sir George Everest House, Sister’s Bazaar, Char Dukan, etc.
May 23-25
With the gazetted holiday of the festival of Id-ul-Fitr falling on May 25, Monday; we have another 3-day long weekend.
Suggested places to go
Darjeeling is our suggestion for this weekend. A chance to ride toy trains (especially through Batasia Loop) and Ropeways; river rafting, as well visiting Tiger Hills, Nightingale Park, Singhalia National Park, Rock Garden, the Peace Pagoda, Sandkhaphu, etc and of course the world-famous tea plantations are some of many attractions that this hill town has to offer.
October 2 to 4
October 2 is the National holiday being Gandhi Jayanti as always. In 2020 it falls on Friday giving you a three-day long weekend.
Suggested places to visit
Indore, aptly dubbed as the food capital of India, and now the cleanest city of the country is the place to be for the first half of this weekend – visit Rajwada Temple, Lal Bagh Temple, Indore Museum, etc are some of the places to visit in Indore. For the second half of the holiday make a trip to the holy island of Omkareshwar and holy town of Maheshwar.
October 24 -26
Dushera falls on October 26 which is Monday. You this have a three long weekend
Suggested places to go:
With relatively cool temperatures; it is a good time to visit the pink city of Jaipur. Amber city light and sound show, Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mantar, Jal Mahal, etc are some of the city’s countless attractions.
October 30 to November 1
The third long weekend in the blessed month of October is occasioned by Id-e-Milad which falls on October 30, a Friday in 2020 and thus… You guessed it, a three-day long weekend.
Suggested places to visit
Delhi shall be the destination we suggest for this 3 day weekend. The capital city has a rich history and is thus full of a number of attractive places to see like India Gate, Red Fort, Qutub Minar, Chandani Chawnk, Lotus Temple, Humayun Tomb, Rashtrapati Bhavan to name a few.
November 13 to 15
Diwali, unfortunately, falls on November 14 a Saturday in 2020 but Chhoti Diwali which falls on a day before (November 13, Friday) will still increase your weekend to 3 days.
Suggested places to go
It is cliche to reserve Goa for Christmas or new year’s Eve and we have something special to suggest for Christmas. The occasion of Diwali is the occasion for Narak Chaturdashi which unusually celebrates the victory of a demon named Naraksur. The festival is marked by grand possessions throughout the state. And of course, there are beaches, wine, natural beauty, etc.
November 28 to 30
Guru Banal Jayanti falls on November 30, a Monday in 2020. This makes for another 3 day weekend.
Suggested places to go
If you haven’t already seen the Taj Mahal, let this be your occasion to make a trip to Agra. Jama Masjid, Fatehpur Sikri, Akbar’s tomb are some of the other places to see in Agra.
December 25 to 27
The Christmas day falls on a Friday bringing in another 3 day weekend with Saturday and Sunday that follows on December 26 and 27.
Suggested Places to go:
An Andaman island named Swaraj Island is our suggestion for this holiday – a perfect place to enjoy the incredible beauty of the Arabian sea.
This is all from us today. You can use our plan as a draft to plan your own holiday. Feel free to make adjustments and changes according to your tastes and needs. 🙂
As Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged all Indians to visit at least 15 tourist destinations to promote domestic travel in India, it becomes important to list out 15 beautiful destinations one must visit before 2022. India’s tourism sector is so dependent on foreign travelers since many tourists love the idea of visiting India, yet the people of India feel the need to visit abroad before they have visited every state in India. Many places in India are worthy of international attraction, yet ignored by domestic tourists, mainly due to lack of awareness or lack of infrastructure. But the increase in the number of tourists will only boost the economy of the place, leading to better facilities and development of the locals living there.
The Beach Paradise in Andaman
When we ghoomophirosisters visited Andaman we were so surprised by the underwater beauty that we had to question why Andaman wasn’t as popular as the Maldives or other international destinations. Even though afraid of water, we thought of Hrithik Roshan in ZNMD and took the plunge. For lovers of the aquamarine or people living in mountainous areas, this beach paradise will be a pleasant surprise. The best time to visit Andaman is from November to April.
What to do: Apart from water sports like snorkeling, jet skiing, scuba diving, and others, Andaman also has many other tourist attractions. There is a Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park there along with a Rajib Gandhi Water Sports Complex in Port Blair. You can spend a relaxing day at Radhanagar Beach or visit the Cellular Jail National Memorial. Andaman also has other popular beaches like Merk Bay, Wandoor and Corbyn’s Cove beach.
How to visit?
Air connectivity through Vir Savarkar Airport in Port Blair. Sea connectivity with major cities like Chennai, Kolkata, and Vishakhapatnam through Haddo Wharf Port in Port Blair.
Realms of Wilderness in Binsar
Binsar is one of the lesser-known places in India that is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts. It is located in the heart of Almora in Kumaoni and is known for its wild jungles, incredible heights, and peaceful surroundings. Mark Binsar on your calendar between October or November.
What to do?
We went to Binsar during December but since it was the peak season, most of the camping sites were booked. Binsar has many incredible camping sites but they are mostly booked in advance yet we were lucky enough to get our bookings done. We also went on a Jeep Safari in the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary and saw Himalayan Deer, Leopards, Barking Deer, Porcupine, and flying squirrel. Binsar also has other places we went for sight-seeing at like the famous Mahadev Temple, Mary Budden Estate, Zero Point and Pariyadeva Pashan.
Though not many, Binsar does have a nice vegetarian restaurant called Dolma restaurant with good food and genuine prices. For dessert, there is Baba Cake nearby.
How to visit?
Binsar is 152 km away from the nearest domestic airport which is in Pantnagar. Rail connectivity is through Kathgodam Railway Station which is 119 km away. There is also road connectivity with the nearest neighboring cities.
The Coffee Plantations in Coorg
Coorg is a gorgeous hill station in Karnataka that is just a quick ride away from Bangalore. The best time to visit is from October to March. We went to Coorg mainly for the enriching Coffee Plantations which the place has plenty.
What to do?
Coorg also has many other attractive places like the Abbey Falls. We went hiking on Brahmagiri Peaks and also spent a calm day at Namdroling Monastery. A week is enough time to explore the entire place. One day we were on a Jeep Safari to Nagarhole National Park and the next we went ziplining in River Kaveri. The Nalknad Palace and Iruppu Falls left a memorable imprint on our minds.
How to reach?
By air: Mangalore is the nearest airport which is 156 km away.
By rail: The nearest railway station is 106 km away called Mysore Junction.
By road: It takes 5 and a half hours to reach Coorg from Bangalore. It is a 238 km long ride.
Camp at Kanatal
Kanatal in Uttarakhand is one of the best places we have found for camping. We spent a weekend at Kanatal enjoying great weather and panoramic sceneries. Though we visited Kanatal in July, the best time to visit Kanatal is between April and June.
What to do?
38 km from Mussorie, you can only imagine the kind of beauty Kanatal possesses. At the shore of Tehri Lake, we enjoyed the rich view of the sunset and also visited the famous Sukranda Temple. The Kodia Jungle gives the place a mystic aura and the New Tehri Dam is a sight one must not miss. Go valley crossing as it is one of the most popular adventure sports in Kanatal. The charges for it are just Rs 300 for a 10-15 minute activity. To get into the “Pahari” feel, we stayed in a homestay in Kanatal. It was there that we enjoyed the delicious Pahari food.
How to reach?
By air: Jolly Grant Airport is located at a distance of 92 km from Kanatal.
By rail: Rishikesh railway station located at a distance of 75 km is the nearest railhead to Kanatal.
Paragliding at Bir Billing
Bir Billing in Himachal Pradesh is the place that held the first-ever World Cup for Paragliding. If you are an adventure enthusiast and haven’t visited Bir Billing yet, book your tickets for April, May or June. Bir Billing has more than ten paragliding spots and is popularly known as the paragliding capital in India.
What to do?
First of all, go paragliding and if left with some time, visit the Billing Valley and the historic temples nearby. Bir Billing has Chamunda Temple, Bajinath Shiv Temple and a Shiva Shrine that attracts pilgrims from all across the country. You can also visit the Ahju Fort and enjoy delicious Himachali cuisine.
How to reach?
By air: Kangra airport, the nearest airport is 67 kilometres from Bir.
By rail: The nearest railway station to Bir Billing is Pathankot which is 140 km away.
By road: Bir Billing is accessible by road as it is connected with nearby cities of Delhi, Chandigarh, Manali, Shimla through buses.
Tirthan Valley in Himachal
Who has not heard of the famous Kullu-Manali? Kullu valley is known for its beauty and in the heart of District Kullu in Tirthan Valley. We visited Tirthan in the hot summers of June and were surprised how a place can be so calm and adventurous at the same time. On one hand, the beautiful scenery of the valley laid our hearts to rest while traveling through Great Himalayan National Park was a thrill beyond imagination. Raghupur Fort embodies the rich history of Himachal while Jalori Pass Trek was both challenging and fulfilling.
How to reach?
By air: Bhuntar airport is 48 km away.
By rail: Ambala railway station is 188 km away.
By road: One can also enjoy the scenic road trip via car or bus from the nearby states.
Ski Lovers Unite at Auli
One trip to Auli will make you never want to travel out of India. Located in Uttarakhand, the snowy mountains of Auli are best for Skiing and even if you don’t know the basics of Skiing, the activity is just as fun to watch. The best time to visit Auli is during winters when it is all covered in snow i.e from December to February. But even during the summers, Auli has its charm with captivating sunsets and mesmerizing view of the Himalayas.
Kuari Pass Trek and Pangarchulla Peak are the main attractions of Auli but one can also visit Kalpeshwar and Sri Hemkunt Sahib.
How to reach?
By air: The Nearest airport is Jolly Grant airport of Dehradun.
By rail: Haridwar railway station is the nearest railway head from Auli.
By road: Travel towards Joshimath which is well connected to many towns and cities of Uttarakhand. From here, Auli is a short ride away.
See the Valley of Flowers
The Valley of Flowers has more than 300 flower species. Located in Uttarakhand, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Many travelers already have it on their bucket list and since it is located at an altitude of 3,858 meters above the sea level, families often go on this trek. We visited Valley of Flowers during the peak season in July and got such great pictures. The only issue is that travelers need to be more caring for the environment when they visit the Valley of Flowers. The untouched beauty of the various species of flowers seems to be getting polluted by plastic wrappers and traveler’s nonchalant attitude towards the environment.
How to reach:
You can book a trek and have a customised itinerary for your visit to the Valley of Flowers.
The Royal Jodhpur
Known as the Blue City of Rajasthan, Jodhpur has forts that will entrap you in the history and the royal old era. From Mehrangarh Fort located at a hilltop to stone pavements and royal landscapes, Jodhpur oozes the essence of Rajasthan. The main city of Jodhpur has many restaurants and we tried the Bajre ka Sogra and Badam Halwa. Visit Jodhpur from October to February because that’s when the weather is most comfortable for the visitors. The summer months in Rajasthan are quite harsh.
How to reach:
By air: Jodhpur has a domestic airport connected to major cities.
By rail: Jodhpur Railway Station is also widely connected.
By road: Road to Jodhpur is also smooth and easily accessible.
Offbeat getaway at Prashar Lake
One of the top tourist attractions in Himachal, known for trekking enthusiasts and gorgeous views of the Dhauladhar range is Prashar Lake in Mandi District. Trekking till Prashar Lake is a mid-difficulty level trek. There is a three-tiered temple right near the Lake that is beautifully constructed. There is also Bhutnath Temple with great architecture located on Samkhetar, Mandi. There is a Shanan Hydel Project that is another tourist attraction in Barot village in Mandi. The best time to visit is April to July or September to November.
How to reach
By air: Kullu Manali airport is the nearest airport which is 73 km away from Mandi.
By rail: The nearest railway station is 50 kilometres away.
Explore the Alpine Forests of Dhanaulti
The thick alpine forests located 2200 meters high in Dhanaulti bordering Mussorie is an offbeat destination for those who wish to live the true wildlife. The Eco Park in Dhanaulti is filled with lush green trees and it also has adventure sports for kids such as commando net, Burma Bridge and Flying Fox. It is a huge and well-maintained park. We went camping at Thangdhar Camp and also visited Surkanda Devi Temple. We visited Dhanaulti during September and September to June is the best time to visit the place.
How to reach
By air: Jolly Grant Airport is 82 km away.
By rail: Dehradun railway station is 25 km away from Dhanaulti.
By road: One can also travel via road from the nearby cities.
The Spiritual Varanasi
The spiritual ghats of Varanasi might not call to you until you have crossed 30 but there is nothing to make you feel truly mortal as a visit to Varanasi. The Pooja Aarti, Prayers and calm banks of the holy river made us feel the essence of what it means to live in India. The Kashi Vishwanath Temple and Durga Temple and two renowned tourist attractions. Apart from that, there is Assi Ghat, Manmandir Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat and Dashashwamedh Ghat which are worth visiting. Mark your calendars between October and February.
How to reach
By air: Varanasi has a domestic airport which is Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport.
By rail: Kashi Railway Station and Varanasi Junction are the two major railway stations.
By road: Varanasi is well-connected with nearby cities via road.
Amidst the Clouds in Meghalaya
Meghalaya is the much-awaited holiday destination on every traveler’s list. Who wouldn’t love to be amidst the clouds, surrounded by mighty green mountains? Caving in Meghalaya is also one of the greatest adventurous activities but only partake if you aren’t afraid of insects and dark spaces. Some other places to visit in Meghalaya are Khasi Hills, Garo Hills, Seven Sisters Falls. Enjoy the sunset neat Umiam Lake and feel the serenity of Nohkalikai Falls. Click the best selfies at Shillong View Point and Nohwet Living Root Bridge. Plan your visit between March and July.
How to reach?
By air: Umroi Airport is the nearest domestic airport.
By rail: Guwahati Junction is the nearest railway station with good connectivity to other cities.
Land of Waterfalls- Cherrapunjee
Cherrapunjee in Meghalaya deserves a stay for at least a week. Its living root bridges made of rubber trees are the biggest attraction and seem like something straight out of a fairytale. The Mawsmai Caves and several waterfalls add to the tourism potential of Cherrapunjee. Nohkalikai Falls, Daiñthlen Falls, and Kynrem Falls are worth a visit. Since the weather in Cherrapunjee is mostly rainy, you can visit it from November to May.
How to reach?
By air: Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport is the nearest airport and is 153 km away.
By rail: Guwahati is the nearest railway station.
Dalhousie
Dalhousie is known for its world-famous architecture. The Victorian era architecture amidst the refreshing green mountains and mesmerizing rivers acts as a charming spot for travelers. Go on a jeep safari in Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary. The architecture of St John’s Church will leave you awestruck. Some other places to visit are Satdhara Falls, Subhash Baoli, and Chamunda Devi Temple. Visit from March to June.
How to reach?
By air: Pathankot is the nearest airport.
By rail: Pathankot is also the nearest railway station.
By road: Dalhousie is well-connected via road.
Plan out your travels till 2022 and do visit some of these places with your entire family to support domestic travel in India!
This is not one of those quizzes where you check whether your chances of success in life are determined by your zodiac signs. But your zodiac does determine many of your behavioral traits and as such your traveling habits too. Based on that, see whether you are what your sun sign says you should be. And if yes, then we recommend some fantastic places which you will love.
Aquarius (January 20 – February 18)
Those born with Aquarius as their zodiac sign are adrenaline junkies and are always looking for their next high. They love meeting strangers and striking new conversations. They prefer off-beat getaways and places that are still unexplored by most travellers. Though quite energetic, Aquarians are easy-going and looking for inner peace while travelling. They find secluded beaches, museums and insider places that only locals know of. You won’t find an Aquarian fearful of eccentric places. Most of the time, Aquarians volunteer for Peace corps or involve themselves in volunteer travel activities because they feel deeply impacted by injustices and everything that is wrong with the world.
Travel Tip: Aquarians are not good at specifics so they have trouble making reservations in hotels and transportation.
Which places will Aquarius love: Sri Lanka, Andaman and Nicobar, Moscow, Ooty, Mukhteshwar, Finland
Pisces (February 19 – March 20)
Pisces born are wandering souls but quite impulsive. Just like their zodiac sign, they love water and will prefer travelling to coastal areas, booking cruises or staying in houseboats. They are the ones who make last-minute travel plans and head out on epic adventures. Packing is not their strong point and they will throw together whatever first hits their mind. They do not plan ahead or organise their travels. Going with the flow is their essential trait. But that also makes them forgetful with their come-what-may attitude. They have great intuitions about their surroundings and love freedom while travelling. Even in hotels, they like spending time by the pool. Pisces are not comfortable with new people and tend to spend some time in solitude to recharge.
Travel-Tip: Try having a to-do list or a checklist of all things you should carry for your travels.
Which places would Pisces love: Goa, Fiji, Bali, Pondicherry, Malaysia.
Aries (March 21 – April 19)
Those born with Aries as their zodiac sign are true foodies. They are the ones you find with food blogs and ask for culinary advice. Aries-born will always look for the best restaurants and special local cuisines to try when they travel. They love outdoors but are very impatient. Aries usually have an itinerary at hand and wish to cross off all places on their list. Since they want to see everything, they do not wait to soak in the beauty of the place or appreciate the essence of travelling. Trying to make it to every place makes it more like a chore than travel for Aries. But Aries born love to travel, they are outgoing and enjoy taking out some time to visit new travel destinations. They are independent travellers and don’t mind going solo to enjoy their journey. They have a child-like curiosity for every place and tend to pick up travelling partners along the way. Travelling with Aries means so many stories to tell and an unforgettable trip. If they decide they want to go somewhere, you can be sure, they will make it there, even if it is challenging.
Travel tip: Put “a leisurely afternoon, enjoying sunset” in your itinerary.
Which places will Aries love: Manali, Dubai, Darjeeling, Portugal, Rome.
Taurus (April 20 – May 20)
They just want luxury. Taurus love pleasure and getting pampered. They would book the best resorts, avoid crowded places, spend time in high-end restaurants and posh areas sipping freshly brewed tea. Taurus enjoy spa massages and relaxing evening at beaches. Any place with a plush surrounding and excellent food will automatically become their top priority. Taurus is an earth sign, so they enjoy nature and natural settings. Seeing a tea garden or living in a cottage at the top of hills, that is their ideal travel plan. They are fond of aesthetics and visually appealing places and will prefer food that looks as good as it tastes. Taureans also are a victim of habits and will prefer travelling to the same location more than once just to get a sense of security. They like being in control and knowing what will happen next so you can’t expect impulsive decisions or last-minute travel plans. But wherever they travel, they take their time. They would experience everything slowly to absorb things and sights.
Travel Tip: Try something new – a new destination or a new café might inspire you to explore more.
Which places will Taureans love: Paris, Thailand, Cape Town, Kochi, Daman and Diu.
Gemini (May 21 – June 20)
Geminis are inquisitive when it comes to travelling. They want to go sightseeing but also know the history of the place. They have a deep thirst for knowledge and wish to have a better understanding of the world. They are the ones who will interact most with locals to find everything about the place they are visiting. Gemini can be spotted in a group because they will be the ones following the guide and listening keenly. But there’s another side to Geminis as well. They also like having an adventurous and active nightlife. They bring energy with them when they travel and party hard. Geminis are good with languages and so don’t have much trouble while travelling to a completely new place. Geminis have varied interests and you can never tell what they will plan next. Geminis like connecting with people and will have friends all across the globe.
Travel Tip: Social by nature, let Geminis do the talking while travelling to a new place.
Where Geminis would love to travel: Jaipur, Ajanta Caves, Venice, Rameshwaram
Cancer (June 21 – July 22)
Those with Cancer as their Zodiac sign are looking for laidback travel expeditions. They like going on tours and picnics with their family and friends where they can relax, enjoy and don’t have to do much of the planning. Their ideal vacation is getting to stay at a homestay with their favourite person and just relaxing indoors, though they wouldn’t mind exploring new things. Cancerians seek peace and comfort so they would prefer travelling with companions they are familiar with. They are quite balanced and so they prefer an itinerary that has both adventure and relaxation. They would love to go trekking but would also want to lay in the sun and enjoy the natural beauty of the place. While travelling alone, Cancerians stay timid and avoid conversations with strangers. It takes time for them to trust someone and so they won’t be asking anyone for help either. They have an easy-going attitude about travelling and so going on a trip with a Cancerian is the most fun.
Travel Tip: Go for a spa at the resort you are staying at because it will give you a home-like feel and also revitalise you.
What places would Cancerians love to visit: Hawaii, Munnar, Philippines, Bora Bora
Leo(July 23 – August 22)
Nobody loves glamour as much as Leos. They are spoiled and would love to show-off each and every bit of their exquisite travel adventures. They want luxurious experiences and so tend to pick the best places, the best hotels and the best restaurants. You would find Leos booking months in advance just to get the aeroplane seat they want. Leos also enjoy art and culture as much as adventure sports. So it is easy to spot a Leo at the Grand Canyon or even at an art gallery. They are an optimist but also cautious and so they travel in style. They wish to be the centre-of-attention and so while travelling with a Leo, you will constantly be asked to click pictures. Whether it is a stay at an underwater hotel or going paragliding in Manali, Leos are always up for it.
Travel tip: Budget Travellers should never pick Leos as travelling partners because glam life does not come cheap and Leos are all for spending lavishly when it comes to having a good time.
Which places would Leos love: Singapore, New York, Los Angeles, Switzerland
Virgo (August 23 – September 22)
Virgos travel for a purpose. Most of their travels include business trips rather than leisure holidays. Out of all other Zodiac signs, they like travelling the least. But they do travel for work or to settle their curiosity. Virgos are perfectionists and so they have everything meticulously planned and organised. They take note of all the places they have visited so they can strike them off the checklist. They also have some pre-travel ideas of what their holiday should contain and so they try to make it possible.
As introverts, Virgos prefer travelling solo instead of with a companion. They are always prepared for their travel whether it is to a museum or off to a forest. Since they are analytical in nature, they decide their travel destination very carefully and analyse every aspect of their travel. Their trips are mostly scheduled and well-thought-out. With a Virgo, you can be sure that all the bookings will be confirmed and well in time.
Travel Tip: Do try going with the flow every once in a while and explore a new place just for getting a new experience.
Which places would Virgos like? Morocco, Tokyo, Kolkata, Sikkim, Amsterdam.
Libra (September 23 – October 22)
Libras are hopeless romantics at heart and want their travel expeditions to be dreamlike. They have a creative persona and want to infuse that creativity in their travels as well. They wish for a vacation that is stylish yet romantic. They would love to be surprised by a sudden trip to their dream destination. Walking through vineyards or tea garden, flying in a hot-air balloon, these are some of the activities that Libras would like. They always worry about their travelling companion and whether they are having fun or not. Libras would always keep shopping on their itinerary and also small luxuries like visiting a chic café or going to a museum. Libras are very sociable and can easily charm others. They are so easy-going that everyone around them feels relaxed. They like having fun but also want everyone else to have just as much fun. Known for being a balanced sign, they plan a trip to include everybody’s interests.
What places would Libras like: Maldives, Mexico, Alleppey, Gulmarg, Australia
Travel tip: Do buy souvenirs for your friends and family in a nice gift shop.
Scorpio (October 23 – November 21)
Scorpions are passionate about travelling and exploring new things. They do not like mainstream tourist places where there are lots of crowds but instead want to be in an unexplored place, somewhere offbeat, undisturbed by others. They like being on their own and having the liberty to plan the trip according to their whims and wishes. So Scorpions would be found going on solo travels so they don’t have to compromise on their Me-time. Scorpions are very compassionate to the locals and give due respect to their traditions and rituals. As for being social, depending on their mood, either Scorpions would be complete loners and enjoy the trip by themselves or they would befriend everyone. They enjoy getting familiarised with new places and new people. If the locals tell them of a place that is off the radar, they will go out of their way to see it. They get very focused and stubborn once they have something on their mind. Travelling with a Scorpio is a life-changing experience.
Travel Tip: Go on a group tour and explore popular places as well.
Which places would Scorpio love to travel to: Jaisalmer, Bhutan, Spain, Spiti, Kutch, Prague
Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)
Sagittarius are independent travellers mostly found on solo trips with a quest to explore the world. They like unconventional spots and exotic locations where they can stay for a long time. Sagittarius is not fond of sight-seeing much because they prefer having insight into the place by staying and enjoying the culture of the place. They are fun-loving travellers who wander solo and travel on a budget but still end up befriending many people.
They are the ones who truly signify what wanderlust is with their great adaptability to situations and positive outlook about everything. They can be a bit reckless but there is never a dull moment travelling with them. They are looking for a deeper meaning of all the destinations that they visit and they will continue hopping to the next adventure till they find it.
Travel Tip: Have a daily allowance system and set-up a separate fund for impulse buys.
What Places would Sagittarius love: Ladakh, Turkey, Myanmar, Kasol, Manali, Iceland
Capricorn (December 22 – January 19)
Capricorns are ambitious by nature and it reflects in their travelling habits as well. They like travelling to places which have a rich history of monarchs, rulers and dictators. They enjoy historic forts, palaces and majestic monuments. They have a fascination for high buildings and tall structures. They love to travel in style and are cautious about having authentic experiences. Capricorns prefer quality over quantity when it comes to travel and would like a few incredible trips than having lots of mediocre tours. They like travelling with their friends so they can enjoy the moment with someone else. You can find Capricorns scaling mountains, going trekking or spending time in royal cities with hotels than reflect the same royalty.
Travel tip: Research about authentic cuisines of the place before you visit and find a restaurant fitting to your taste.
Which places would Capricorns adore: Agra, Lucknow, Jodhpur, Vienna, London, Hampi
That’s all the zodiac signs with their eccentric traits describing how they love to travel. One thing they all have in common is the love for travelling and seeing the world. Meeting new people might be easier for some and very difficult task for others, but it always does one good to take a leap and try out something new. Choose your travelling partner wisely and do try out something out of your comfort zone. Who knows? It might turn out to be a lot of fun!
Bikini Airlines have come to India but if you don’t know what Bikini airlines are, read on to find out. A Vietnamese airline Vietjet has come to be popularly known as “Bikini Airline” because of their controversial commercials and promotional efforts highlighting their air hostesses in a bikini. But that’s not all, there has been more than just one such advertisement.
From their constant efforts at emphasizing that less is more, they seem to be following the minimalist agenda. Firstly with the controversial advertisements that made them popular as “Bikini airlines” and now with their offer to sell tickets at cheap rates. Now another surprising element is the company is headed by a woman entrepreneur, Nguyen Thi Phuong Thao.
Details of the flight
Vietjet has confirmed that they will start their operations in India in the month of December. The flights will go to and fro between India and Vietnam. It will be a direct flight from Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh. There is still confusion on whether it will be a non-stop flight or not. It may be a direct flight but could have stops in between. Direct means that you just will not have to change flights to reach your destination, but there could be a stop in between.
The company had also offered a super saving ticket offering tickets at the meager cost of Rs 9 for three golden days starting August 20. Customers can go on their website www.vietjet.com to buy tickets or also download their mobile app. Once the three-day offer ends, the base fare for a trip from Delhi to Vietnam will cost you approximately ₹8,863.
The flights will not be available on a daily basis though. The flights from Ho Chi Minh to Delhi will fly for four days in a week i.e Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday while the flights from Hanoi will operate on three days only i.e Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. The flying time will be somewhere around 5 hours. Refund on cancellation option is not going to be available and they will allow a carry-on bag only weighing no more than 7 kgs. For taking additional luggage with you, you might have to pay an additional fee.
The flight will take off from New Delhi at 11:50 pm and it will reach Ho Chi Minh at 6:10 am. The return flight will take off at 7 pm from Ho Chi Minh and will arrive at New Delhi at 10:50 pm.
Timings for Hanoi Flights are:
Departure (New Delhi) at 11:50pm. Arrival in Hanoi: 5:20 Am. The return flight will depart from Hanoi at 7:10 pm and reach Delhi by 10:50 pm.
The purpose of Vietjet expanding their operations to India is to cater to air traffic between both countries since there is no direct flight from India to Vietnam or vice versa yet.
Some things you must know about Vietjet:
Much like the infamous Kingfisher, Vietjet also publishes an annual calendar which has pictures of air-hostesses, pilots and other crew posing in racy clothes. Many people have argued against it saying that it is a sexist way of promoting their brand.
Now since the brand is coming to India, it is imperative to mention that the flight attendants do not wear Bikinis while on the flight. That was restricted to only the short time of commercial and the promotional offer.
Currently, Vietjet operates 400 flights daily to various destinations across the country as well as to international destinations in the world. It follows 129 different routes. The company has a fleet of 55 aircraft.
The announcement of Vietjet coming to India was made to mark the visit of Vietnam President Tran Dai Quang in India. It was announced at the India-Vietnam Business Forum held at New Delhi. The expected date for the operations to begin is December 6 but it may be postponed or changed by the company if they so wish.
Controversy:
Vietjet has been quite controversial since their commercials. They have made the headlines before because of their flight attendants serving the customers in uniform that was little more than a Bikini. Moreover, the company was even fined 678.20 euros in 2012 because their five flight attendants took part in a mid-flight dance, wearing Bikinis and posing as if they were in a Beauty contest. Since they had not taken any permission from Vietnam’s aviation authorities, they were fined.
Now, since the company will be operating in India and because of their cheap rates, almost anyone can board the flight, here’s to hoping that the flight attendants don’t get catcalled. It is an international flight and so they may serve alcohol as well and with an airline known to be “Bikini Airline”, it may cause a lot of trouble.
As travel bloggers, we stay at so many hotels and resorts. Staying in different places, even in the kind of environment which is often not suitable to have proper accommodation, we realize the importance of leaving a green footprint. But being a commercial hotel and remaining eco-friendly seems like a tough task.
We have visited so many mountains that get dirtied by the plastic and wrappers travelers leave behind. Recently, the tourism in Bhaderwah in Jammu and Kashmir multiplied ten-fold but the damage it caused to the environment was irreparable. Yes, all travelers need to understand the importance of being eco-friendly but before they do that, the accommodation they are staying at must ensure that they instill that thought in the traveler’s mind. So, here is an open letter to all hotels to promote eco-tourism and sustainability.
Dear Hotel-owners,
Your short-term benefits might be bad for business in the long-term. It might feel easier for you to pay electricity bills even though it takes a cut out of your profit, but you should know that investing in solar panels is a one-time investment. In the long run, it is much cheaper and much more sustainable. Similarly, using plastic straws may seem like you are offering comfort to your guests but those straws harm the aquatic animals and do not decompose, deteriorating the earth and marine life which are causes of tourism in many places.
Why would anyone wish to visit a place that wasn’t naturally beautiful? What keeps a place naturally beautiful is the care people of the place have for its environment. You must have read about Leh and how much problems they are having because of tourism. Tourism might boost the economy of a place but if there is no eco-tourism, the tourism potential of a place will be completely exploited and it will be left worthless after a few years.
Why shouldn’t you serve water in jugs instead of plastic bottles? An even better option is metal bottles or glass bottles. If your guests find it awkward at first, it is your job to convince them that what you are doing is for their benefit and the benefit of the environment. Travelers have a soft spot for nature and will always appreciate steps like that. But wouldn’t it cost a lot to make such changes in the hospitality industry?
The truth is, it doesn’t cost as much as one expects and moreover, it works in favor of “brand-building”. One can bring small changes daily. Have different dustbins for bio-degradable and non-biodegradable waste and a proper method of waste disposal. Give your guests a pouch for putting wrappers and trash in so they do not litter in places they are visiting. Adopt water-conservation methods by outsourcing laundry services and creating awareness for water conservation. You can also use photocell faucets for minimizing the water use. Also, buy recycles toilet paper and local-made furniture. If the tourist destinations are not too far away, have a bicycle service available for your guests. Moreover, one important thing you must do is not to use chemical-based cleaning products.
It must seem like a lot but do these little things and showcase it to the world. Eco-tourism is rapidly growing and many hotel chains are jumping the bandwagon. Yet, things will not change with just a few hotels deciding to go eco-friendly. Everyone must contribute their bit. It is not just about the environment either, it also forms part of the Corporate Social Responsibility. The next time someone visits your hotel, they should get to see how much you care for the place you are doing business in.
India is a land that stands for ‘Unity in diversity’ and one of the ways in which this diversity show is in its festivals. It’s being historically dependent on Agriculture makes monsoon season most important of all seasons – often it has proven to be a life-saver for farmers. From the smallest farmer to Amir Khan in Lagaan to the national bird of India, Peacock, we all lose ourselves to mirth at the sight of rain loaded clouds. Even the king of gods in Hinduism is Lord Indra, the god of rain. The monsoons are this a season filled with festivities throughout India. The monsoon season is generally considered to last between June to September or early October in Georgian calendar and in and around the month of Saavann in Indian traditional months.
India’s amazing diversity means that the monsoons are celebrated in different ways in different parts of the country and different sections of our community – though they are all marked with a lot of singing, dancing, and feasting.
To celebrate the season of rains and to indulge in the exhilarating festivals, take a look at 15 of the most important monsoon festivals in India that you must attend.
1. Teej
The first in our list of 15 monsoon festivals of India is Teej. Celebrated sometime in August or September, it is a festival centered around the married women and marks the mythologically important day when Goddess Parvati was reunited with Lord Shiva after over 100 years of separation.
The festival is celebrated in North, North-East and North-western parts of the country under different names – Hartalika Teej, Kajari Teej, Hariyali Teej, etc.
Rajasthan is the best place to be in to celebrate it – especially in Bundi and Jaipur. During the celebration, women would pray for happiness in their married life. They would get together, dress up in traditional bridal wear, decorate their hands with henna, sing folk songs earmarked for this festival, dance, swing on swings (traditionally decorated with flowers and tied to the branches of trees). In the Pink City, Jaipur you can watch a beautiful possession of Goddess Parvati held by the local women. Like with all festivals of India, it is marked with feasting on delicious food items like Ghewar, kheer,dal bati churma, etc.
2. Nag Panchami
The festival of snakes, Nag Panchami is second in our list of 15 Monsoon Festivals in India. The word ‘Nag’ means snake and ‘Panchami’ means the fifth day of a fortnight. Celebrated on the fifth day of the Shukla Paksha (the fortnight leading from new moon to full moon) of Saavan month, it is celebrated by worshiping snakes and snake god, Shesh Nag and offering milk to them.
The celebration is supposed to pray that snake god Shesha Nag should protect them from all evils.
3. Onam
A list of 15 Monsoon Festivals in India can’t be complete without a mention of Onam. The ten-day-long harvest festival is, for those who celebrate it, synonymous with the bliss of monsoon. It is also identifying marks of Kerala – God’s own country and often considered one of the paradises on Earth where you should be if you truly want to experience Onam in all its majesty. The festival falls either in August or September.
Onam is centered around farmers as they are in ecstasy overseeing the rain reward their hard work in the form of beautiful green fields. Kerala smiles in all its Glory during the festival as there are spectacular carnivals of elephants, religious rituals held in temples, traditional music, folk songs and of course, Kerala’s trademark Kathakali dance. People also wear traditional dresses, use flower patterns called ‘Pookalam’ to decorate their houses in beautiful ways and there is a feast of twenty-one homemade incredibly delicious curries and sweet payasam made and served in all traditional homes on plantain leaf on Thiruvonam, the second day of the festival.
Though what takes the cake in Onam celebrations is Vallam Kali – theSnake boat races, that are held on backwaters during this time. The participants sing songs as they race to keep up the spirit. The races area display of teamwork, strength, fitness, and cleverness. The Nehru Trophy Boat race which is held in Punnamada Lake near Alappuzha, Kerala is the most famous of these races.
4. Raksha Bandhan
Probably one of most unique festivals for it’s being centered around the brother and sister relationship and a natural favorite to be included in our list of15 Monsoon Festivals in India is Rakhsha Bandhan. The words ‘Raksha’ means protection and ‘Bandhan’ means a tie. It is thus the day when sisters tie silk apply tilak on foreheads of their brothers, tie thread called ‘Rakhi’ on the wrist of their brothers to bless them with long life and, in return, seek protection from all possible dangers and often get protection. Sisters will prepare dishes for brothers and receive gifts from them in return. Held in the monsoon season, in the full moon night in the month of Shravan (July-August).
5. Nariyal Purnima
Next in our list of 15 Monsoon Festivals in India is Nariyal Purnima. The words ‘Nariyal’ means coconut and ‘Purnima’ means full moon. The place to be in to worship the coconut festival in Maharashtra and is a festival celebrated mostly by the local fishing community known as Koli. The festival falls on the same day as Rakhsha Bandhan. The festival is the occasion for the coastal community for showing their gratitude to the god of the sea, Varuna on whom the fishing community is dependent on their livelihood.
6. Adiperukku
Adiperukku is another waterbodies related festival that has found its place in our list of 15 Monsoon Festivals in India. Celebrated in Tamil Nadu during the mid-July-August 18th day of Tamil month of Aadi by the women, it pays tributes to waterbodies – rivers, water tanks, lakes, wells, etc to mark their importance in the sustenance of human life. In moderns times, when water scarcity has become a crisis, the festival has a lesson that can be learned from our rich culture.
7. Hemis Festival
The monsoon (July-August) season is also one of the best times to plan a trip to Ladakh. It is one of the driest months during the monsoon season and also the time when one of it’s most important festival Hermis takes place. The festival is named Hemis Gompa which is one of the oldest, largest, most important and culturally richest Buddhist monasteries of the world. This 2-day festival celebrates the birth of Lord Padmasambhava (Guru Rimpoche) that falls on the tenth day of Tibetan Lunar month Tse Chu which is around the middle of July every year. Lord Padmasambhava introduced the people of Tibet to the practice of Tantric Buddhism and is regarded as the founder of the Nyingma tradition which is the oldest of the four major schools of Tibetan Buddhism.
It is also a celebration of the victory of good over evil. The most important feature of these five days long festival is Cham, a fundamental a part of Tantric tradition of Buddhism. Monks get dressed in colorful dresses with huge animals masks and elaborate jewelry and give a beautiful dramatic dance performance in the premises of the monastery creating an aesthetically brilliant atmosphere that reverberates with the sound of musical drums, longhorns, cymbals, etc. The festival is the best occasion to visit Ladakh in order to enjoy its unique local cuisine and rides on yaks and camels.
8. Minjar
The eighth festival in our list of 15 Monsoon Festivals in India is the Minjar Festival of Himachal Pradesh. It is celebrated during the July-August at Chamba and is another version of a thanksgiving ceremony to the god of rainVaruna and a prayer for a good harvest. This seven-day long harvest festival has Minjar Mela as one of its chief features.
9. Hareli
The ninth festival in our list of 15 Monsoon Festivals in India Hareli derives from Hindi word for greenery – Haryali. The festival is celebrated on the new moon day of the month or the Sravana Amavasya which falls during the monsoon months of July and August.
The place to be in for the celebration of this festival is the tribal state of Chattisgarh. The harvest season marks the occasion for worship of Goddess Kuki, farming equipment, bullocks, and cows, in hope for a good harvest. The most striking feature of the festival is bull races.
Hareli is also celebrated in some parts for Madhya Pradesh while Raja Parva is a monsoon festival celebrated by women in the state of Orissa
10. Behdienkhlam
The tenth member of our list of 15 Monsoon Festivals in India takes us to Middle East India. There are several monsoon festivals celebrated in northeast India such as Nongkrem Dance, Reh Festival, Cheiraoba festival, Moatsu, and Ambubasi Mela; however, the festival that makes it to the list is Behdienkhlam.
Behdienkhlam is celebrated in North-western state Meghalaya where, like so many other monsoons festivals, it marks the victory of good over evil. The word‘Behdienkhlam’ means ‘chasing away the Demon of Cholera’in the local language. Every year the annual festival marks the day of cleaning. This Jaintia tribes’ festival has become a great occasion for local people for dancing, singing, and feasting. Communities come together to make delicious food, and events for dancing, music, and sports are held. This festival is also an invocation to God, seeking His blessings for a richer harvest.
How could a state named Meghalaya (figuratively ‘abode of clouds) fail to celebrate the arrival of monsoons? It is, in fact, the best time to visit Meghalaya. The festival that falls in the month of July is best experienced at Jaintia hills where the Pnar tribal people celebrate it with young men make symbolic gestures of driving away of the evil spirit and dance in the muddy pool of water.
11. Janmashtami
One of most loved deities of Hinduism Lord Krishna, the eighth avatar of Lord Vishnu, has his birth celebrated during the monsoon season as Janmashtami, the eleventh member in our list of 15 Monsoon Festivals in India. The word Janmashtami is made by merging two words – Janam (birth) and Ashtami (eighth day of the fortnight) as the festival falls on the 8th day of Krishna paksha (the fortnight from full moon to new moon) in the month of Shravan (that is, August-September). The festival marks the worship of Lord Krishna as an infant child.
The places to be in for best enjoying the festivity of these occasions are his birthplace Mathura and the town where he lived till he was adolescent – Vrindavan. In both these cities, as with much of northern India, the festival is celebrated by the decoration of temples, singing holy songs, prayers, etc.
Another equally best place to be in is Maharashtra where the tradition is to dramatically recreate the lord’s favorite pastime, stealing butter from pots set too high beyond his reach by making human pyramids amidst many festivities marked by food, drinks, music, and dance.
In a number of parts, little children are dressed like Krishna and Radha and some temples recreate different scenes from Lord Krishna’s life.
12. Puri Rath Yatra
Next in our list of 15 Monsoon Festivals in India is Puri Rath Yatra. Celebrated in 900-year-old Jagannath temple which is one of four dhams of Hindus (the other three being Dwaraka, Rameshwaram, and Badrinath).
Jagannath is another name for Lord Vishnu only and figuratively means ‘the owner for the universe’. The festival is celebrated on the second day of the Ashadha month, which falls between June-July months. The Jagannath shrine is located in Puri on the Nilchala Mountains, which is just 60 kilometers from the state capital Bhubaneshwar.
On the day of the yatra, the idol of Lord Jagannath is carried in massive chariots that are as tall as 45.6 feet and have 18 wheels. These chariots are pulled by thousands of devotees. Lod’s sisters, Balbhadrd and Subhadra and his brother, Balarama’s chariots accompany this procession. They are taken through the streets of Puri to the Gundicha Temple, where they remain there for nine days. The chariots are pulled by the devotees during the yatra. The festivity, utter devotion, and bliss experienced, lure devotees from far ends of the world.
13. Ganesh Chaturthi
Thirteenth in our list of 15 Monsoon Festivals in India is Ganesh Chaturthi, a festival much loved by Bollywood. Also known as Vinayak Chaturthi (Vinayak being another name of Ganesha), the festival marks the birth of elephant headers Lord Ganesha. The god whose name must be taken at the beginning of all prayers and religious ceremonies as well as all enterprises for the success of endeavor undertaken.
Every year during the season of monsoon, Lord Ganesha’s huge idols are worshipped for nine days. They are raised on huge podiums, while devotees might also worship the Lord in their homes. On the tenth day of the festival, the idols are given a majestic farewell when they are taken on a grand procession at the end of which they are immersed in the water bodies.
The place to be in for this festival is hands down Maharashtra in general and Mumbai in particular. Despite Mumbai’s excessive rain problems, It is the best time to see Mumbai. Lots of sweets, savory foods items, music, dance, colors, festivities, etc add to the colors of the festival. Modak, a sweet prepared from condensed milk is considered to be Lord Ganesha’s, favorite sweet.
14. Sao Joao
Sao Joao a characteristically Goan festival in penultimate festival in our list of 15 Monsoon Festivals in India. It is much like Goa – exciting, fun and full of cuisine, dance and music celebration, and honors St. John the Baptist. Celebrated on the 24th of June every year, it dates back to the Portuguese colonial days. Gifts such as delicious fruits, drinks, etc are exchanged,people dress up in colorful outfits, sing songs, greet each other, exchange gifts like fruits or drinks and sing hymns. Also, one can find carnival-themed boats floating on the streams in a number of villages. Goa, in short, is a lot more Goa on Sao Joao and it is the perfect time to visit the state.
15. Ganga Dussehra
Last but not the least in our list of15 Monsoon Festivals in India is Ganga Dushera. It is celebrated at the very start of monsoon season, that is, the end of June and is usually celebrated by worshiping holy river Ganga and Lord Shiva and taking a dip in Ganga.
Conclusion
India has an incredible diversity of cultures and different parts do county celebrate different religious events in different ways. We have talked about some of the most important of the monsoon season festivals. All these festivals are unique and charming in their own way. We recommend planning your trip to different parts of the country according to festivals that are best celebrated there to get the best of your tourist destination. 🙂
