Majestic in scale and awesome in its natural beauty, the year-round adventure land of Mammoth Lakes is one of those rare places that you have to see to still not totally believe. The name speaks to the size of the mountains, the expanse of the valleys, the incredible number of crystal clear mountain lakes and the endless opportunities for adventure just outside your door. But what makes this place really unique are the surreal storybook scenes that drop jaws, spark
Journeys
Kerala, in memories, for the time being
I remember growing up watching documentaries based on Kerala, the word itself created waves of emotions in the little me, for reasons unknown. Growing up in the country’s capital with concrete buildings all around, the backwaters, beaches and the swaying palm trees of Kerala seemed a distant dream but at the same time, I felt a very strong inner calling to God’s Own Country, an almost unquenchable thirst until I finally set foot on a land that topped my bucket
Three days of land adventure in Mammoth Lakes
Play big in the massive mountain paradise, where endless adventures await. From amazing views along hiking trails to thrilling rides at the number one mountain bike park in the United States, summertime here is full of outdoor activities. Whether you’re exploring the wilderness on horseback or sampling world-class cuisine at a festival, Mammoth Lakes delivers excitement for everyone. Day 1 – Exploration on Wheels Mammoth Lakes offers over 20 kilometers of paved bike trails, including a bike path climbing over 1,000 feet in
Kalga – the ecovillage of Himachal
Aerial view of Kalga Village. Photo: Devashish Vaid Located amongst the hinterlands of Himachal Pradesh - the land of the mighty Himalayas is a small village called Kalga. Considered to be one of the cleanest in the country, Kalga, in the Parvati valley, is a model of eco-tourism. Knowing Kalga Beyond the settlement of Barshaini, near Kasol, a tiny village called Kalga is the epicentre of our story. Kalga is surely a paradise for anyone looking for the quietude and serenity that the mountains offer in
Ambassador of Turkey to India hosted high tea
The Ambassador of Turkey to India, H.E. Mr Şakir Özkan Torunlar, hosted a High Tea for members of the Indian tourism and economy media at his official residence in New Delhi recently. The informal meet and greet session was organised to acknowledge the media for their ongoing support to Turkey and apprise them on current tourism statistics and trends between both the countries. The High Tea at the ambassador’s residence was an extravagant occasion giving a peek of Turkish culture,
Pollachi – Beyond Tender Coconut
As I woke up one morning and swept aside the curtains, a breathtaking view of a tea garden was laid in front of me. The sun was slowly moving up the horizon and the tea leaves still had dewdrops on them, the mist was all around and there was a proper nip in the air. As I was enjoying my cup of morning tea, after a round of photography and a nature walk in the plantation, the spell cast of
A show of love and care at Periyar Elephant Reserve, Kerala
We are a group of old Air Force friends from Hyderabad and two of us are from Kerela. Apart from them, none of us had ever been to the Deep South, so a trip to God’s own Country was very much on the cards this year. Upon reaching Cochin, we saw the roaring Athirapally falls on the Chalakudy river and spent a quiet evening in the gloriously green Munnar. Later we drove into Thekkady, where the big attraction is the
Summer Travel: All Eyes on Nainital
There is a reason why despite the throngs of tourists that visit Nainital, one of India’s most quaint hill stations, it remains popular amongst those looking to escape the heat of the plains. Make that several reasons, actually! Located at an altitude of approximately 2,084 meters above the sea level, the town is located alongside the foothills of the Kumaon region of the outer Himalayas. Its various natural attractions and favourable climate all year round make it a quick getaway or an
Walking With Elephants at Sakrebyle Elephant Camp
The importance that elephants hold in the history, folklore and mythology of India is huge. Especially in South India, elephants are an integral part of the culture and traditions. This time when you go down south, go beyond visiting the temple elephants - that have been reduced to rather pitiable conditions, actually. Instead, go over to the Sakrebyle Elephant camp, where the pachyderms are loved and pampered. This unusual shelter-cum-training camp is about 14km from Shimoga on the Shimoga Thirthahalli road. The
Best Birdwatching Spots In and Near Delhi
I discovered birdwatching as a child - when my grandfather would take me to the bird hospital in Old Delhi - almost every month - to feed the birds. I won't say it became a hobby that consumed me as hobbies should, but it made me understand that it was a hobby that helped you appreciate nature and the skill of the Creator - in the way he added colours to feathers. Later on, it made me realise that it