A Journey to Netarhat: Chasing Sunsets, Stories, & Serenity

The journey from Ranchi to Netarhat, the "Queen of Chotanagpur," unfolded beautifully among verdant fields and quaint villages. Arriving at Naturehat Resorts, we enjoyed rustic comfort while savoring local cuisine. As we visited Magnolia Sunset Point and explored the enchanting landscapes, we were captivated by the area's legends and tranquility. The experience deepened family bonds, fostering appreciation for nature's splendour. Leaving Netarhat stirred a longing to return, highlighting its essence as a cherished memory.

Kumbh Mela 2019: A Journey of Faith & Tradition

In January, we attended a wedding in Varanasi and fulfilled my mother's wish to bathe in the Triveni Sangam during Mauni Amavasya. This brought back memories of our 2013 pilgrimage to the Maha Kumbh Mela. The Mela, recognized by UNESCO, attracts millions seeking spiritual purification. Our experience was enriched by the inclusive participation of the Kinnar Akhada. The massive event showcased a seamless blend of tradition and modernity, leaving a profound impact on our spiritual journey.

Calangute Beach, Goa

Exploring Calangute Beach: Sunsets, Sports, & Nightlife

Calangute, located in North Goa, is a perfect beach vacation destination with pristine beaches, vibrant nightlife, and water sports activities. The journey from Mumbai involves an overnight train ride full of scenic views, including the Western Ghats biodiversity hotspot. Calangute beach offers relaxation, a party atmosphere, and a selection of seafood and drinks. Furthermore, there's a rich history behind its name, tied to local culture and traditions. It also has a lively nightlife, featuring numerous clubs and bars. Overall, Calangute has elements to cater to diverse tourist preferences.

Gopalpur-on-Sea: Golden Sands, Azure Waves, & a New Year’s Sunrise

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.

Chandpur Beach Escape: Serenity by the Sea

Sometimes, all you need is the sea breeze, the lull of waves, and a break from city chaos. Our spontaneous escape to Chandpur — a quiet beach between Tajpur and Shankarpur — became a revelation. From sipping tea under cloudy skies to savoring masala crab in a seaside shack, Chandpur offered serenity, solitude, and stories of the sea. Some places don’t just exist on maps — they live in memory.

Discovering the Magic of Madhavpur

There is a serene beach at Madhavpur on the road to Somnath from Dwarka. It lies on the seashore, close to Porbandar. Madhavpur isn’t much well-known. However it is a very important pilgrimage for Hindu Vaishnavas. ccording to folklore, Lord Krishna kidnapped princess Rukmini (Rukmini haran) and eloped with her to prevent an unwanted marriage at her request and saved her from evil Shishupala. Lord Krishna married princess Rukmini at this village while returning to Dwaraka. She is the first and the most prominent queen of Krishna.

Triveni Sangam: Where Rivers & Rituals Converge

In Hindu tradition Triveni Sangam is the "confluence" of three rivers. Sangam is the Sanskrit word for confluence. The point of confluence is a sacred place for Hindus. A bath here is said to wash away all of one's sins and free one from the cycle of rebirth. One such Triveni Sangam, in Prayagraj (Allahabad) has two physical rivers Ganges, Yamuna, and the invisible or mythic Saraswati River. The site is in Prayag (Allahabad).

Kumbh Mela: The World’s Largest Spiritual Gathering

The Kumbh Mela, derived from a mythical pot of nectar, is a globally renowned Hindu festival. Originating from ancient Vedic scriptures, it revolves around a tale of gods and demons battling over immortality. Held every 12 years at four riverside sites, the festival's bathing rituals are believed to bring divine blessings. With millions of pilgrims, it is recognized as an intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO.