South Asia, which consists of 8 countries that form part of the sub-Himalayan SAARC countries was largely formed from the administrative boundaries of the British Raj. While the Indian subcontinent takes up the largest area, along with the other core lands of the British Empire, namely Pakistan and Bangladesh, the question about Afghanistan’s place is still debatable. Although Afghanistan is included as part of South Asia, questions about whether it should instead be included in the Middle East are continuously raised. The mountainous nations of Nepal and Bhutan renowned for their beautiful landscapes and mystique, and the equally spectacular island countries of Sri Lanka and the Maldives also form part of Southern Asia.
South Asia is the most populated region in the world, with a population of about 1.749 billion. Customs and traditions vary from one region to the next with a number of languages spoken and religions practiced. South Asia is the land of Buddha and Yoga and spirituality is dominant in the region. Temple cities and beautiful monasteries abound in this part of the world. Once a much sought after land for its wealth and spices, its rich and varied history is reflected in the grand old monuments that dot the land. From the glory of the ancient Indus Valley civilization to the remnants of the various kingdoms and invaders that passed through the land, there is much about the region to marvel at.
Straddling a large bend of the holy Yamuna River is the gorgeous city of Agra. It’s famed as the legendary home of the marble mausoleum of Taj Mahal, which is an immortal ode to love. The magical allure of the stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site draws travelers like moths to a chalk-white flame. And no…
The 16th-century holy city of Amritsar is the most revered city in Sikhism and one of the most religious cities in the world. It is home to the stunning Harmandir Sahib, better known as the Golden Temple, one of the world’s most extraordinary sights. The ornate temple, which is the holiest shrine in Sikh culture,…
Goa is a kaleidoscopic blend of Portuguese and Indian cultures, sweetened by the sun, sand, sea, seafood, spirituality, and susegad! This pocket-sized paradise, a.k.a. sunshine state is everyone’s favorite getaway, and even more so now. Whether it’s the long and beautiful coastline, hippie markets, Portuguese villages, or green fields, Goa’s charm is boundless. Making it all…
The splendidly enchanting desert-fortress city of Jaisalmer in Rajasthan, India is an exotic mirage rising from the golden sands of the Thar Desert. There’s so much to explore within and outside the walls of the ‘Golden City.’ There are majestic Havelis, royal palaces, traditional handicrafts, and, of course, the gorgeous Sam sand dunes. The best…
The ‘Blue City’ Jodhpur, also known as ‘Sun City,’ basks in the glory of the beautiful Thar desert. The lovely desert city sits in the shade of the rocky outcrop that is Mehrangarh Fort, one of the largest castles in the world, and is a Tetris-like maze of shimmering medieval streets. Heritage structures in Jodhpur…
The capital of Nepal Kathmandu is like a kaleidoscope; a dizzying riot of colors, aromas, and sounds that will overwhelm your senses. Kathmandu’s sights and attractions know no bounds, whether it’s the UNESCO-listed Kathmandu Durbar Square or marigold-filled temples. So, where does one put up in the city? Interestingly, the best hotels in Kathmandu include…
Maximum City, City of Dreams, and “Maya Nagari” or City of Illusions Mumbai throbs with an energy that is as fantastic as it is frenetic. The vertical city is actually a merger of seven islands and has been an important marine port forever. Mumbai is not just India’s financial and economic capital but also home…
Frenetic, fabulous Mumbai holds a bunch of fitting titles. Its the City of Dreams, the Financial Capital of India, and the Gateway of India, and these are just some of its monikers. It’s a hotspot for tourists, boasts a thriving nightlife, and simply doesn’t seem to stop. Also, right in the middle of this vertical…
There’s something extremely wonderful about the Maldives that immediately puts people in a dream-like state. After all, who can resist soft white-sand beaches, cyan-colored waters, and lush jungles? The amazing archipelago consists of around 1,200 islands scattered across the Indian Ocean, which means lots of water-based fun. These including everything from reef diving and snorkeling…
The ‘Silicon Valley’ of India Bengaluru (earlier Bangalore) is a fabulously cosmopolitan city. Besides a great climate, it also has an amazing drinking and dining scene and stunning Victorian-era architecture. Plus, it’s blessed with a modern metro system. This is a blessing since the Kempegowda International Airport lies at least 40 km (24.8 mi) from…
The South Indian city of Chennai is one captivating confluence of cosmopolitan neighborhoods and urban villages. Tamil Nadu’s capital has long been a keeper of culinary, religious, and artistic traditions, and continues to be so. Recently, the city has gained a fair bit of cosmopolitan glamor in the form of new-age restaurants, quirky cafes, dazzling…
There are few cities like Delhi on this planet. Firstly, there have been eight historical versions of the city, each built at the same place or nearby. The city is famous for its frenetic bazaars, lip-smacking street food, and the rich historic architecture of Old Delhi. If you’re flying to Delhi for a short holiday…
As pet parents, we’ve canceled vacations at the wag of a tail if our pet hasn’t been able to come along. Luckily, when we planned a trip to India, we were delighted to know that it’s a very pet-friendly destination! The thought of exploring a vibrant culture and discovering this new destination was undoubtedly more…
One of the world’s oldest cultures and civilizations, India also has abundant reserves of natural and modern beauty. It’s a land rich in contrasts, stretching from the Himalayas and Rajasthan’s deserts to mountain ranges and sandy beaches. As grand as India is as a country, so is its hospitality, and while one might not associate…
The City of Dreams, Maximum City, the Financial Capital of India, India’s most expensive city; Mumbai’s sobriquets and nicknames are endless – and apt. From hipster enclaves and hidden temples to the furious energy of India’s premier restaurants and nightlife, the city’s juxtapositioning is spellbinding. What makes it all the more interesting is that Mumbai…
The British nicknamed India the ‘brightest star in the sky,’ – and for good measure. The astonishingly diverse country is a melting pot of cultures, traditions, languages, and ethos and boasts exuberance and flamboyance in every form of the word. What’s more, it’s also the ultimate travel destination. In fact, the places to see range…
So we visited Amritsar, the holy city of the SIkh people, and we simply fail in love with them!. Anywhere you go you see warm and peaceful people. Who Are They 1 Sikhism is a monotheistic faith founded by Guru Nanak who was born in 1469 to a Hindu family. Sikhism, which began in India’s…
Located in the northwest region of India, Amritsar is one of the most historic cities of northern India and is mostly famous for two things – rich culture and delicious food. You would hear “Sat Sri Akal”, the colloquial greeting, in every hook and corner of the place. If you are on an exploration to…
India is known for mysticism, a rich history, and a diverse cultural vibe. Steeped in history, the picturesque city of Jaisalmer in the Indian state of Rajasthan is synonymous with an old-world charm that makes you a time traveler. Just 300 km (16 miles) from Jodhpur, it’s tucked in the heart of the Thar Desert.…
Planning a trip to India? Don’t miss Jodhpur, the land of kings and forts, and the second largest city in the desert state of India, Rajasthan. Popularly known by the name of “Blue City”, because it has peculiar blue buildings all over the place, this is because Jodhpur was mainly inhabited by Brahmins, the highest…
Looking for the top 10 things to do in Kandy, Sri Lanka? We’ve got you covered. This ancient and historic city is the capital of Sri Lanka’s Central Province. Once the seat of the country’s ancient kings, Kandy dates back to the 1st century AD. Today, many visitors flock to Kandy to see the beautiful…
Rich, vibrant, colorful, spicy, exotic, expressive, warm, friendly, busy, spiritual, millenary are just some of the adjectives used to describe Mumbai. Whether you go on a luxury trip to India or backpacking this city has it all for every single kind of traveler. Just like any other harbor city Mumbai is a bustling metropolis with more…
New Delhi, one of the fastest-growing cities in the world, is the capital city of the Republic of India. Built on the banks of the Yamuna river, New Delhi is a beautiful blend of historical past and a vibrant present and visitors are always awed by it. Check out our Top 10 Things To Do…
India’s capital New Delhi, or just Delhi, is like an assault on the senses – but the good kind. Whether it’s the winding, vibrant lanes of Old Delhi, the delectable street food, or its eons-old architecture, Delhi is one enthralling destination. It’s also considered a forthright “pink” destination in a deeply conservative country where LGBTQ…