Aah…nothing like a steaming hot cup of good old aromatic coffee. All aficionados of this timeless beverage will echo this feeling, but perhaps just a handful have had the pleasure of delving a bit deeper. Riddled? Well, without further talking in riddles, let us tell you that we want to treat you to a slice of life in a plantation. Hop aboard a tractor and set out on a bumpy ride through farmlands in the company of folks who works in a plantation. Chip in with them in their farm tasks such as picking coffee, pepper, a bit of mulching and other that are part and parcel of life in a farm. You will inhale the heady scent of spices that will slowly grow upon you and finally overwhelm your sense of smell, while the scenic views of lush surroundings will treat your sense of vision to many delightful sights. No words will do justice to the heart-warming feeling you will experience from nurturing the earth and learning about the lives of plantation workers. You will live a way of life that is worlds removed the grind of city or even town life, albeit just for a few hours. Once you know, what all goes into brewing that perfect cup of coffee, we promise that you will have a lovely time, fancying yourself as a coffee connoisseur, whenever you have a cup again.

Good to Know

• It’s a guided tour.
• The exact duration in the farm is roughly one hour.
• The experience is aptly called, ‘Workers’ Trail’.

A quick drive away from Bhuj, lies a small hamlet called Kukma, where the 800-year old weaving tradition of Kharad continues to enthral the ones who care to visit. Originally meaning carpet in Sindhi, today Kharad has donned various new avatars, fanned by winds of change, blowing over hundreds of years. Woven by expert hands, genetically shaped by a bloodline spanning generations of master weavers, Kharad is still quite often completely made from natural resources – camel, sheep and goat wool to be precise. Adorned with intricate artworks and elaborate patterns, Kharad products seem to narrate many a fascinating tale. You will witness all the elaborate steps that go into weaving Kharad. See, how the yellow colour is extracted from the Kesuda flower, also called flame of the forest, while red and brown come from lac. Witness the sheer miracle unfold right in front of your eyes, as the weavers perform various steps with extreme dexterity and seemingly effortless ease. They churn out wall hangings, carpets, accessories and other goodies that are simply too hard to resist and have even found their way into Australian museums. The best part – you will get to hear deeply engrossing stories on their way of life and centuries-old traditions.

Good to Know

• ? Guided village tour
• ? Interaction with weavers
• ? Souvenir shopping if you wish

Highly popular in the state of Odisha, this tomato chutney also has a pious connotation as it’s one of the 56 offerings made to Lord Jagannath. It’s a fine condiment and goes well with many dishes. The preparation is absurdly simple. Simply fry asafoetida and mustard seeds in a pan of oil and throw in green chillies and ginger. After a minute or two, add in curry leaves, along with chopped tomato pieces. Now add salt and sugar as per your taste. Cover the pan and let it cook till the tomatoes ooze water. Now simmer the flame and let the water steam out. By now, the tomatoes will get soft and dry. This tastes absolutely delicious with rice. For that extra punch, you may add in raisins, dates and cardamom seeds.

Good to know

Ingredients:

• Tomato – 4 (chopped)
• Ginger – 1/2 inch (crushed)
• Oil – 1 tablespoon.
• Mustard seed -1 teaspoon.
• Sugar – 2 tablespoons or to taste
• Salt – to taste
• Asafoetida – a pinch
• Green chilli – 1 (chopped)
• Curry leaves – 4 or 5
• Khajur (Dates) – 4/5 pieces
• Kismis (Raisins – 5/6
• Cardamom seeds – a few

The festival marks the coronation and divine wedding of Goddess Meenakshi (the presiding deity of Madurai) with Lord Sundareswarar (Lord Shiva). While the first 15 days are exclusively dedicated to these events, the following 15 days go into celebrating the journey of Lord Alagar (Goddess Meenakshi’s brother) from Kallazhagar temple in Alagar Koyil to Madurai.

The top highlights of the festival are Yetram, Pattabisekam, Dikvijayam, Meenakshi Tirukalyanam, Ther Thiruvizha, Etir Sevai and Alagar Vaigai Elenthuarulal.

On Yetram, a holy flag is hoisted by the chief priest of Meenakshi temple to declare the opening of this festival. Pattabisekam marks the coronation ceremony of Goddess Meenakshi as the queen of Madurai. Dikvijayam celebrates the event of Goddess Meenakshi’s departure for war and falling in love with Lord Shiva in the battlefield. Legend goes that she left with Lord Shiva for his abode in the Himalayas. Meenakshi Tirukalyanam is the traditional wedding of Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Shiva – this celestial wedding is celebrated with great pomp and show.

On Ther Thiruvizha, an enormous chariot procession is taken out. This stunningly made chariot symbolises the journey of Goddess Meenakshi and her husband to visit the subjects of the Pandya kingdom.

Etir Sevai and Alagar Vaigai Elenthuarulal reflect the festival’s Vaishnava traditions. On Etir Sevai, the people of Madurai welcome Lord Alagar (Lord Vishnu) to the city – yes, it’s an act of faith like the other events. He reaches the city to join his sister’s wedding celebrations. Finally, on Alagar Vaigai Elenthuarulal, Lord Alagar hands out wedding gifts to his sister and brother-in-law before returning. This elaborate ceremony is carried out at a special venue in the middle of River Vaigai.

Visiting Madurai amidst these festivities is an experience of a lifetime indeed.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrive in Chennai - Mahabalipuram

Arrive in Chennai and drive to the seashore town of Mahabalipuram. Overnight stay in Mahabalipuram at Radisson Blu Resort Temple Bay.

Day 2 – Mahabalipuram

After breakfast at the hotel, proceed to Dakshinachitra, a unique heritage centre. Continue to visit the highlights of the famous seaport of the Pallavas in Mahabalipuram, which includes the famous rock-cut and the seashore temple. Overnight stay in Mahabalipuram.

Day 3 – Mahabalipuram – Pondicherry

Drive to Pondicherry in the morning after breakfast. (130

km / 3 hours approx.). On arrival, meet a specialist from INTACH (Indian National Trust for Art & Cultural Heritage) & proceed to discover Pondicherry on a walking tour of the charming amalgam of French and Tamil culture and traditions on the east coast of India.

Overnight in Pondicherry at Palais de Mahe.

Day 4 – Pondicherry

After the buffet breakfast, proceed to Auroville, a concept town in the outskirts of Pondicherry, founded by Mirra Alfassa (also known as The Mother) as a tribute to Sri Aurobindo. Continue on a cultural sojourn to Mohanam Centre for Culture and Heritage, a rural village where you will gain an insight into the local heritage and traditions from Tamil Nadu. Overnight stay in Pondicherry.

Day 5 – Pondicherry – Kumbakonam

Drive to Kumbakonam en route stopping at Gangaikondacholapuram, famous for its Chola temple. Overnight in Kumbakonam at Mantra Koodam.

Day 6 – Kumbakonam

After breakfast, proceed on an excursion to the heritage town of Tanjore. Visit the Sri Brihadeeshwara Temple, a UNESCO listed heritage site. Later, continue to Darasuram, known for the Airavateshvara Temple built by Rajaraja Chola II in the 12th century. Visit the silk weavers to witness the intricate art on looms. Overnight stay in Kumbakonam.

Day 7 – Kumbakonam – Madurai

Proceed to Madurai via the heritage town of Chettinad. Take a walk around the heritage town. Enjoy a cooking demo session and lunch. Overnight stay in Madurai at Heritage Madurai.

Day 8 – Madurai

After breakfast at the hotel, set off to witness the celestial wedding of God and Goddess in a grandly decorated hall inside the temple. Later, enjoy the sightseeing of Madurai visiting the Palace of Tirumalai Nayak, an Indo-Saracenic building constructed in the 16th century.

Overnight in Madurai.

Day 9 – Depart from Madurai

Wake up early in the morning to witness the Car Festival (Ther Thiruvizha) where the newlywed deities are paraded through the streets in a decorated chariot. Later, drive to the airport to board your flight to your onward destination.

‘The Big Day’ takes you on a rollercoaster ride through the world of absolutely over the top Indian weddings and pre-wedding ceremonies. In fact, that’s an understatement – think ‘Alice in Wonderland’ theme bashes at a beach in Mahabalipuram and partying under the watchful eyes of a gigantic Buddha – The Big Day redefines the word, megalomania. Peek into the lives of vivacious young couples-to-be, as they prepare for their ‘Big Day’. Of course, the plots weaves its way through their love lives as well and has plenty of emotional heart-melting moments.

The show is not just about glitter and glamour, as it has liberal doses of hard-hitting messages, including gender equality and same-gender marriage – still a taboo in India. Some of the protagonists also end up helping local communities. The couples even question ancient traditions like Kanyadan (giving away the bride) and other quintessentially Indian quirks that go in a wedding. Overall, the show packs in a great punch with all the right ingredients.

In 1872, Mr. Phileas Fogg, the protagonist of Jules Verne’s novel, ‘Around the World in Eighty Days’, created a furore, and continues to tickle the fancy of many till date. Today, thanks to the wonders of the online world, we have made a humble attempt to take you on a similar, albeit much watered down virtual tour across some of India’s most soul-stirring hotspots in just a little over four minutes. Of course, in the days to come, you will come down in flesh in blood to soak in the heady sights, sounds, and smells of all these and myriad other charismatic places that make the heart and soul of India.

So, without further ado, let’s set off – treat your eyes to the magical landscapes of Incredible India. From cruising the tranquil network of Kerala’s backwaters to frolicking in the sun-kissed beaches of Goa, India offers a huge wide world of unforgettably delightful experiences. Witness the grand architectural gems of Hampi, and hear the melody of musical pillars. Feast your eyes upon the spectacular Golden Temple of Amritsar and try to comprehend the unfathomable depths of human kindness and devotion that goes behind feeding a sea of humanity here, day in and day out. See gushing waterfalls and serene jungles, as well as crowded bustling streets, where bullock carts and the fanciest of automobiles rub shoulders. Walk down the sands of time amidst incredible historical monuments like Delhi’s Qutub Minar, or experience the sheer joy of traversing emerald paddy fields in coastal villages. India was and remains a land of incredible wonders.

Mr. Vikram Seth’s epic novel, ‘A Suitable Boy’ continues to go strong even after nearly 30 years since it was first published. Set in the turbulent times of post-independence and post-partition India, it’s a tale of love amidst hatred other turbulent human emotions. It’s one of the longest novels to be published in a single volume and traces the lives of four families over a period of 18 months. The central theme revolves around the character, Mrs. Rupa Mehra’s quest to find a suitable boy for her 19-year old daughter, Lata. Now, Lata is not a demure maiden and has a mind of her own. She has many suitors vying for her, including a Muslim man – this was highly scandalous in those days.

Now, we won’t spoil the fun by revealing the climax, but let’s just tell you that the novel is unputdownable, irrespective of its length. From matters of the heart and the antics of lovers to political scenarios and family dynamics, Mr. Seth has pulled off this masterpiece with great élan. In fact, it’s one of those rare gems that actually stir nostalgia, once it comes to an end.

Vistara has started its flights on the Mumbai- Malé route. The inaugural flight departed from Mumbai Airport on 3rd March, 2021 at 10:10 a.m. This development is part of India’s air bubble agreement with the Republic of Maldives. The flights will be operated thrice a week; Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays. Of course, the highest standards of safety and hygiene are being maintained to ensure the wellbeing of travellers.

God’s Own Country continues to spring fresh new delightful experiences for visitors. Recently, Kerala Tourism launched the Malanad-Malabar River Cruise Project. In the first phase, 11 different boat rides with unique thematic experiences were launched to take tourists to off-beat hidden gems. The overall project will take shape across phases, spanning out across the Mayyazhi, Valapattanam, Ancharakkandi, Kuppam, Perumba, Kavvayi, Thejaswini and Chandragiri rivers as well as the languid stretches of the Valiyaparamaba backwaters. Travellers will get a taste of the Malabar region’s rich culture, replete with tales of local legends folk arts.

To cite an example, travellers on the Mayyazhi river cruise will experience the age-old Kalarippayattu martial art, while the ones on the Anjarakkandy cruise, will gain some insights into the Pazhassi Raja’s struggles with the British as well as the region’s legendary spices. A couple of the other highlights are Music Cruise on the Perumba and Model Responsible Village cruise on the Valiyaparamba.

There will be 48 boat terminals and jetties throughout the districts of Kannur and Kasargod. Quite endearingly, the project greatly emphasises upon Responsible Tourism and will do its bit for local community development. From fisher men and farmers to cab drivers and handloom labourers, everyone stands to reap the benefits of this new venture.

The merry folks of Goa are all set to burst into festivities with the Konkani diaspora’s spring festival called Shigmo. Packed with untold high-voltage entertainment and fun, complete with colourful parades, Shigmo adds its special touch to the sunshine state and lasts for around 14 days. This year’s festivities will be limited to Panaji, Mapusa and Ponda. Tourists flock to Goa in hordes to join in the festivities. Shigmo casts its spell in two avatars – Dhakto Shigmo or small Shigmo, and Vhadlo Shigmo, or big Shigmo. The former is largely celebrated by farmers, while almost everyone joins the latter.

Vistara has started its flights on the Mumbai- Malé route. The inaugural flight departed from Mumbai Airport on 3rd March, 2021 at 10:10 a.m. This development is part of India’s air bubble agreement with the Republic of Maldives. The flights will be operated thrice a week; Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays. Of course, the highest standards of safety and hygiene are being maintained to ensure the wellbeing of travellers.

God’s Own Country continues to spring fresh new delightful experiences for visitors. Recently, Kerala Tourism launched the Malanad-Malabar River Cruise Project. In the first phase, 11 different boat rides with unique thematic experiences were launched to take tourists to off-beat hidden gems. The overall project will take shape across phases, spanning out across the Mayyazhi, Valapattanam, Ancharakkandi, Kuppam, Perumba, Kavvayi, Thejaswini and Chandragiri rivers as well as the languid stretches of the Valiyaparamaba backwaters. Travellers will get a taste of the Malabar region’s rich culture, replete with tales of local legends folk arts.

To cite an example, travellers on the Mayyazhi river cruise will experience the age-old Kalarippayattu martial art, while the ones on the Anjarakkandy cruise, will gain some insights into the Pazhassi Raja’s struggles with the British as well as the region’s legendary spices. A couple of the other highlights are Music Cruise on the Perumba and Model Responsible Village cruise on the Valiyaparamba.

There will be 48 boat terminals and jetties throughout the districts of Kannur and Kasargod. Quite endearingly, the project greatly emphasises upon Responsible Tourism and will do its bit for local community development. From fisher men and farmers to cab drivers and handloom labourers, everyone stands to reap the benefits of this new venture.

The merry folks of Goa are all set to burst into festivities with the Konkani diaspora’s spring festival called Shigmo. Packed with untold high-voltage entertainment and fun, complete with colourful parades, Shigmo adds its special touch to the sunshine state and lasts for around 14 days. This year’s festivities will be limited to Panaji, Mapusa and Ponda. Tourists flock to Goa in hordes to join in the festivities. Shigmo casts its spell in two avatars – Dhakto Shigmo or small Shigmo, and Vhadlo Shigmo, or big Shigmo. The former is largely celebrated by farmers, while almost everyone joins the latter.

Vistara has started its flights on the Mumbai- Malé route. The inaugural flight departed from Mumbai Airport on 3rd March, 2021 at 10:10 a.m. This development is part of India’s air bubble agreement with the Republic of Maldives. The flights will be operated thrice a week; Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays. Of course, the highest standards of safety and hygiene are being maintained to ensure the wellbeing of travellers.

God’s Own Country continues to spring fresh new delightful experiences for visitors. Recently, Kerala Tourism launched the Malanad-Malabar River Cruise Project. In the first phase, 11 different boat rides with unique thematic experiences were launched to take tourists to off-beat hidden gems. The overall project will take shape across phases, spanning out across the Mayyazhi, Valapattanam, Ancharakkandi, Kuppam, Perumba, Kavvayi, Thejaswini and Chandragiri rivers as well as the languid stretches of the Valiyaparamaba backwaters. Travellers will get a taste of the Malabar region’s rich culture, replete with tales of local legends folk arts.

To cite an example, travellers on the Mayyazhi river cruise will experience the age-old Kalarippayattu martial art, while the ones on the Anjarakkandy cruise, will gain some insights into the Pazhassi Raja’s struggles with the British as well as the region’s legendary spices. A couple of the other highlights are Music Cruise on the Perumba and Model Responsible Village cruise on the Valiyaparamba.

There will be 48 boat terminals and jetties throughout the districts of Kannur and Kasargod. Quite endearingly, the project greatly emphasises upon Responsible Tourism and will do its bit for local community development. From fisher men and farmers to cab drivers and handloom labourers, everyone stands to reap the benefits of this new venture.

The merry folks of Goa are all set to burst into festivities with the Konkani diaspora’s spring festival called Shigmo. Packed with untold high-voltage entertainment and fun, complete with colourful parades, Shigmo adds its special touch to the sunshine state and lasts for around 14 days. This year’s festivities will be limited to Panaji, Mapusa and Ponda. Tourists flock to Goa in hordes to join in the festivities. Shigmo casts its spell in two avatars – Dhakto Shigmo or small Shigmo, and Vhadlo Shigmo, or big Shigmo. The former is largely celebrated by farmers, while almost everyone joins the latter.