A boat ride refers to a relatively short journey on a smaller watercraft, typically on a lake, river, or coastal area. A cruise, on the other hand, is a more extensive and luxurious water travel experience that typically takes place on larger cruise ships or ocean liners. Boat rides can offer a more intimate and closer experience with the water and the surroundings. They are often conducted on small boats, motorboats, canoes, kayaks, paddleboats, or another similar watercraft.
On September 6, 2025, my sister-in-law Gungun visited Ranchi after family time in Rourkela. On my day off, we explored the scenic Patratu Valley and Dam. Enjoying a leisurely boat ride and exploring an island, our adventure was filled with laughter and memorable moments, highlighting the beauty of family and nature.
Bagore ki Haveli serves as a historical museum in Udaipur, showcasing Rajasthan's culture and daily life through its various chambers. An unexpected storm on Lake Pichola provided an enchanting experience during a boat ride, transforming the scene into a dramatic spectacle. Ultimately, unplanned local dining offered comfort after the storm, reflecting the joy in spontaneous experiences.
Our year-end road trip from Ranchi to Puri was a journey of fulfilling wishes and creating unforgettable memories. Jagrata's long-held desire to visit the Jagannath Temple was finally realized, while Tania experienced her first glimpse of the sea. The trip unfolded amidst picturesque landscapes and delightful culinary stops. However, we encountered some challenges upon arriving in Puri due to road blockades implemented by the city police to manage the crowds. Despite this, the spiritual visit to the Jagannath Temple and the coastal adventures at Puri’s Golden Beach and Chilika Lake made the experience truly enriching.
Varanasi, a timeless city on the sacred Ganga, captivates visitors with its historic ghats and temples. A trip included a visit to Kashi Vishwanath temple and an evening cruise on the Ganga aboard the Alaknanda luxury liner, offering breathtaking views and the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti. The experience also encompassed exploring Ravidas Ghat and witnessing the city's rich cultural heritage. The day ended with a memorable Ganga Aarti and a peaceful float of a Floating Diya. The Alaknanda Cruise provided a unique perspective of Varanasi's iconic ghats, offering a tranquil escape from the lively streets, concluding with shopping, a temple visit, and a delightful dinner before departing for Ranchi.
Jeita Grotto, nestled in Keserwan, Lebanon, is a remarkable limestone cave network featuring spectacular stalactites and stalagmites, and a subterranean river. Home to one of the largest hanging stalactites globally, the 9-kilometre-long system encompasses two main galleries - the upper and lower, which can be explored by foot and boat respectively. Noted for its natural beauty, it's one of Lebanon's leading attractions. Rediscovered in 1836, Jeita Grotto's karstic structures were formed over millions of years due to the dissolution of limestone.
Kolkata's rich cultural heritage is reflected through its landmarks such as the iconic Howrah Bridge and Hooghly River, both deeply intertwined with the city's history. The Hooghly river, a key distributary of the holy Ganga River, was vital for establishing several international trade settlements including the East India Company's base, Calcutta. Several sites of historic and cultural significance, including the Howrah Bridge, the Nimtala Crematorium, and Belur Math, reside along the river's banks, making a river cruise an immersive experience into Kolkata's past and present.
On their second day in Goa, the author booked a sunset cruise on the Mandovi River with Swastik Cruise, returning to the Reis Magos jetty in the evening to board the air-conditioned passenger vessel, Swasti. On board, guests were entertained with traditional Goan dances and music, and treated to a view of Goa's striking sunset. Despite the cruise not being their best experience, the author recommends it for anyone visiting Goa.
Eight years ago, I traveled to the Maldives with my wife and son, transforming my perception of beauty and nature. This stunning archipelago, hosting 1,200 coral islands, captivated us with its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant coral reefs, and luxurious resorts. Our stay at the Sheraton Full Moon Resort & Spa allowed us to immerse ourselves in serene surroundings and experiences, reminding us of nature’s fragile beauty. Departing stirred a promise to return to this paradise, forever etched in my heart.
Gopalpur is the perfect place for holidays. During the days of Kalingas, this place was known as the port of Paloura from which traders sailed as far as Java, Bali and Sumatra and piled up wealth dealing in silk and pearl. Later Gopalpur regained its importance to maritime trade during British colonial rule. It was a transit point to export sugar and cheap labourers for the tea gardens of Assam in north-eastern India. Today it survives on fishing as its main industry, and a pristine beach with unforgettable views of the sunrise.
Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj is a sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati, drawing pilgrims for centuries. It symbolizes the unity of spirituality and nature, especially in winter when migratory Siberian seagulls enhance its beauty. The site faces ecological threats, reminding visitors of the need for conservation. Triveni Sangam offers a profound encounter with faith, nature, and the importance of preserving this sacred ecosystem for future generations.
