10 Compelling Reasons That Will Make You To Visit India

A glimpse into “Why should you consider visiting India?”

You may be always heard of someone of something describing India as a country with a rich heritage, Cultural \ traditional diversity, the oldest civilization and so many descriptions that are clichéd over many years. However, they are true and significant features of India that everyone is predominantly aware of. Hence let’s drag the spotlight to focus on more unique highlights that one must know before visiting India. On the other way around, if you are not planning to make a visit to India, post reading this blog you can’t resist yourself from packing your bags to head towards this vibrant nation.

Here’s India rolling out a red carpet to welcome you and have a vast incredible travel experience that you must never miss in your lifetime.

1. The Icon of India

The first thing that pops up in your mind when you hear the word “India” would obviously be its rich cultural heritage. India is packed with many monuments, historical sites and artifacts that have stood the test of time tracing back to 5,000 years. However, this cultural heritage still welcomes millions of visitors due to its impeccable ancient architecture that leaves a big challenge to the present day’s modern architecture.

A picturesque view of Taj Mahal in Agra.

One of the best architectural marvels and the most popular monument in India is the Taj Mahal, and it is one of the Seven Wonders of the World. The site of the huge structure with White marble, semi-precious stones, and a large dome, dazzling in the sunshine is truly mesmerizing and stands as a symbol of love and tragedy. But when you visit here it turns out to be a symbol of delight and astonishment as you don’t just see the Taj Mahal but with every blink, you will admire the beauty of the monument. Followed by the Taj Mahal, there are other popular monuments that India owns which are reorganized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Like the Khajuraho group of monuments, Elephanta caves The Ajanta and Ellora Caves, the Mahabalipuram group of monuments, Great Living Chola Temples, Hampi, and short time ago added Hoysala temples and Tagore’s home Santiniketan.

Top monuments to visit in India – You cannot miss other enchanting monuments of India like Qutab Minar , Gate way of Mumbai, Charminar , Hawa Mahal, Konark and Modhera sun temple Rani ki Vav, Golden temple and Mysore Palace which are very famous their exceptional architectures. Whether big or small, attractive or not each monument carries its own significance and royalty.

2. Land that are straight out of fairy tales

You might have heard many stories and imagined yourself being in the middle of a beautiful ambience like snow, mountains, islands, hills and etc; Make your imagination come true before your eyes as there are numerous of destinations in India that look like dreamland. Ranging from the eastern part of India’s Darjeeling, Shillong, Sikkim, to the Western part of India’s Mahabaleshwar Lonavala and Khandala and the Northern part of India’s Uttarakhand, Kashmir and Manali, Ladakh will absolutely leave you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller. Among all the places mentioned above The southern part of India has a special attraction as it possesses God’s own country – Kerala, that is beautified with Munnar, Wayanad and Thekkady. Tamil Nadu is highlighted by Ooty, Kodaikanal, and Nilgiri whereas Karnataka receives thousands of fans for Coorg, Nandi Hills and Chikmagalur. These popular and beautiful hill stations of India welcome to relax rejuvenate and revive.

India is also bestowed with other popular hill stations like –

Kufri, Mussoorie, Haldwani, Khajjiar, Mount Abu, Gulmarg, Sakleshpura, Coonoor, Yelagiri, Velliangiri, Yercaud, Vagamon, Pollachi.

3. Spiritual Hub of the World

Travelling to India is indeed for people who are in the verge of busy and hectic city life. Being one of the oldest civilizations, India completely resolves the stress and depression of the present lifestyle as it houses many famous and powerful temples that provides a man with a purpose of life. Though Hinduism is predominantly followed in India, every year, every month and every day, thousands of people from different religion and different part of the world swarm the popular temples in India like, Kedarnath – the highest among Jyotirlinga temples, Mahabodhi Temple Complex at Bodh Gaya (UNESCO World Heritage Site), Akshardham Temple at New Delhi, Ram Temple at Ayodhya, Lepakshi Temple at Andhra Pradesh, Gomateshwara Temple at Shravanabelagola in Karnataka, Sanchi Buddhist Stupa(UNESCO World Heritage site) at Sanchi, Madhya Pradesh, and Shirdi Sai Baba Temple at Maharashtra. South India is more rooted and connected to spirituality and customs so you can see the impeccable artistic marvel of the ancient times, hear various stories of incredible incidents of the Vedic Era Dvapara era (period when god lived on earth) when you visit famous south Indian Temples like Meenakshi Temple in Madurai, Ramanathaswamy temple in Rameshwaram, Sri Venkateswara Temple in Andra Pradesh, Virupaksha and Iskcon temple in Karnataka, Guruvayur Krishna temple in Kerala, Thillai Natarajar Temple, Chidambaram and Kanchi Kamakshi Amman Temple in Kanchipuram and the list never ends. Believers would devote themselves to the spiritual solace, whereas the non-believers would end up in devoting themselves to the architecture, beautiful ambience and a high vivid energy of the temple.

4. India – The Mother of Yoga, Meditation and Ayurveda

India serves as an unpaid therapist that boosts people with triad of wellness. Namely the physical, emotional and mental wellness. This triad can be achieved through Yoga and Meditation which is currently popular and has deeply rooted to many countries of the world. But India is the one which sowed the seed for the growth of Yoga, Meditation and as well as Ayurveda. Being originated from Rishikesh, The spiritual discipline – Yoga and Meditation has proved itself to the world for bringing harmony to both body and mind. Contemporarily the world is piled with various ailments that people suffer from. When they seek for healing, they offer to take endless medicines that gives enduring side effects. But would you believe if I say medicine with no side effects was found in India 3000 years ago? Believe it or not India is very famous for Ayurveda Medicines, that comprises of plants, animals (In some cases) metals and other natural ingredients. The main motive of Ayurveda is complete health for all, preventing disease, and prolonging the life without much complications. So when you seek for natural healing India stretches out its arms to heal you.

Popular places in India for Meditation and Yoga –

Ananda – Himalayas, Vipassana International Academy – Igatpuri, Dhamma Bodhi- Bodh Gaya, Ashiyana Yoga Retreat – Goa, Osho – Pune Isha Yoga and Meditation – Coimbatore Aurobindo Ashram – Pondicherry.

Popular places in India for Ayurveda –

Somatheeram Ayurveda Resort and Kairali Ayurvedic Health Village – Kerala, Ananda – Himalayas, Devaaya – Goa, The Leela – Udaipur

5. Aesthetic Beaches

Definitely there will be no haters for beach. Everyone will have the same obsession regarding the place but they differ with their choices. Some choose to visit beaches to relax, rejuvenate and get refreshed, while some prefer to indulge themselves in adventurous beach activities. The beaches in India welcomes and unites people of both choices, as it satisfies all your beach day desires. The beaches in India proved that they are truly wonderful and are must visits after it had acquired “The Blue Flag Certification” – An eco-label certification that is given to Beaches, Marinas and Sustainable boating tourism for a well- maintained environment, along with educational safety and accessibility standards. Kadmat beach, Thundi beach, Shivrajpur beach, Ghoghla beach, Kasarkod beach, Padubidri beach, Kappad beach, Rushikonda beach Radhanagar beach and the Golden beach will come under the category of Blue flag certification. Roam around, relax, and be adventurous as you visit these beautiful blue and cleanest beaches in the world that belongs to India.

Most popular beaches in India to enjoy your vacation –

Puri beach – Odisha Calangute, Palolem and Agonda Baga beach – Goa, Varkala and Kovalam beach- Kerala, Gokarna and om beach – Karnataka, Auroville, Paradise, Mahabalipuram and Dhanushkodi beach – Tamil Nadu, Havelock island at Andaman and Nicobar and Minicoy Island – Lakshadweep are the top beaches very famous for their scenic beauty.

6. Thrilling Wildlife sanctuaries and Enchanting Bird Sanctuaries –

You are very familiar that India is very famous for its Cultural diversity as many people who belong to different culture, language and tradition live here. But do you know that this country is also famous for rich biodiversity as it is a home to a variety of incredible of plants, animals and other living creatures of earth? The wildlife sanctuaries are a haven to the animals as a lot of conservation plans are formulated by the government, where they ensure to protect the wildlife from harmful activities like hunting and poaching. For those who crave for thrilling experience of a dense forest journeys, jeep safaris, and a bone chilling wildlife encounters visit the popular wildlife sanctuaries in India that are recognised by the UNESCO as world heritage sites like Kaziranga and Manas Wildlife Sanctuary – Assam Sundarbans National Park- West Bengal, Great Himalayan National Park-Himachal Pradesh Keoladeo National Park- Rajasthan Khangchendzonga National Park- Sikkim, Nanda Devi National Park and Valley of Flowers National Parks- Uttarakhand. Those who are sensitive to thrills spend time in Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary in Tamil Nadu, Kumarakom and Thattekad Bird SanctuaryBird Sanctuary – Kerala, Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary – Goa, Pulicat Lake Bird Sanctuary -Andhra Pradesh and Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, Rajasthan

Most popular Wildlife sanctuaries and Bird sanctuaries in India for Wildlife enthusiast

Jim Corbett National Park, Gir National Park, Bandipur National Park, Periyar National Park, Mudumalai Tiger Reserve, Parambikulam forest reserve, Anamalai Tiger Reserve, Anamalai Tiger Reserve, Chilka Lake Bird Sanctuary, Mayani Bird Sanctuary, Maharashtra.

7. Land of frequent Vibrant Festivals –

When you feel happy you celebrate. But people of India celebrate to be happy and sustain the happiness. India is popular for not just celebrating famous festivals but for celebrating life, social bonds, womanhood, and unity. Every festivals that are celebrated in India has its own significance and flavour that you must definitely experience first-hand. Though people of India differ from culture, tradition or religion they all get united by a festival called “Diwali” – The most popular Indian festival that represents the triumph of good over evil and is celebrated with lights, lamps and crackers. The sky turns pink, blue green and various other colours as fireworks in sky are lit up from all the parts of India. Sparkling lights, sounds of music, dance on the streets, strangers meeting and greeting each other is truly an event to enjoy. When you visit India you just don’t witness or capture the wonderful moments in festival, rather you will be made to part take in the celebration and you will be treated as their own community people. Followed by Diwali there’s Makar Sankranti – A harvest festival that is celebrated all over India but with different name. In South India, people call this festival as “Pongal” which means to boil and overflow. Pongal is highlighted by the world famous event called “Jallikattu” – A competitive sport where the participants attempt to grab the hump of a furious bull. You must definitely experience the loud cheering, applause and the energy levels of the Tamil People that could be found nowhere but in Madurai – the birth place of Valour. Be a part of the world’s largest cattle fair known as the Pushkar festival held in Rajasthan where you will be surrounded by colourfully decorated set up, camels, traditional music, dance and etc.; Followed by Pushkar there is The Puri festival which attracts enormous number of people from all over the world due to its electrifying ambience.

Other popular festivals of India that you must part take –

Onam, Janmashtami, Ganesh Chaturthi, Mahashivratri, Eid Ul Fitr/Eid, Christmas, Holi, Navratri and Dussehra.

8. Best country for foodies –

You can’t give an answer to the question “Whether we eat to live, or live to eat?” Because some will go with the first category and some belong to the second one. But when you visit India you will definitely make yourself to fall into the second category. You will actually live to eat as there numerous varieties of dishes, and this one life time will not be enough to taste them all. From north, east, west and south and from sweet, spice, sour and salt, The Indian flavour is always ready to gift your taste buds. Northern part of India mainly add wheat, Maida, lentils curd and sweets to their Cuisine. One of the popular North Indian dish is the Amritsari chole bhature – Chickpea Curry with deep Fried puffy breads. Crispy layer of the bread with spicy chickpea curry will give you a different taste vibe that you never had before. Rajma Chawal – A dish consist of rice and red bean gravy that is highly rich in protein. Dhahi Vada- Lentil based fried cakes that are dipped in curd. Samosa – A spicy deep fried crispy north Indian snack stuff with potatoes and peas. They also add famous sweets to their meal like Gulab Jamun, jelebi, and Ras Malai. South Indian cuisines are famous for its plethora of flavors. South Indians mostly prefer Food to be spicy both for vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. One of the famous spicy dish of South India Hyderabad biryani – A rice dish that has a mixture of spices vegetable and meat (Without meat in some cases) it is well known for its brilliant aroma and flavor. Kerala is very famous for Puttu and kadala curry – A steamed rice cake with chickpea gravy that will make you feel light and healthy. Also you will crave for Malabar barota, prawn gravy and aapam when you taste them once. Tamil Nadu cuisine will always contain tamarind, coconuts and more chilies as they are essential for maintaining a good health. Idly with sambar – rice cake with lentil gravy is a popular dish in Tamil Nadu that will have no haters. Followed by idly there is Pongal,- a rice dish added with ghee, Dosa– crisp savoury pancake and Puliyotharai – Tamarind rice is are of must try dish in Tamil Nadu.

Also taste these popular foods in India –

Dal Makhani, Rasagulla, Halwa, Kulfi, Butter Chicken, Aloo Paratha, Pulao, poha, Thali, Tandoori chicken, Bonda, Idiyaapam, Methu vada, Cotton seed milk, Mango Lassi and the list goes on… In India you will find many multi cuisine restaurants so you can opt to visit and try all your favorite as well as many new dishes.

9. The biggest shopping spot to buy rarest things

Be it a men or women or a children, everybody has craze for shopping. For all the people who are ready to dedicate more time into shopping, India serve as a “Shoppers Paradise”. Shopping in India will make you feel like you are actually in a wonderland. Surrounded by colorful clothes, paintings, sculptures, accessories, spices and many other rarest and original things that can be bought only in India. You must definitely consider buying the Rajasthan clothes that has impeccable mirror works and intricate embroideries that will make you feel like princess. Find astounding jewels made of precious stones, grab Madhubani Painting, Warli Painting, and Kalighat Painting, and never miss to shop Ayurvedic skin care products, First quality tea from Himachal and Assam and best quality spices from Kerala. Buy original silk and cotton sarees from Tamil Nadu’s silk city Kanchipuram, gold foil embellished painting from Tanjore and many other things like pottery, handicraft, and miniatures that represents the excellent skills of the craftsmanship.

Other Popular things to buy in India-

pashmina shawl, Natural perfumes, Herbs, rare gem stones, Rajasthan sling bags, kolhapuri slippers, Jhumkas, Jaipur bangles, Terracotta and Sandalwood statues from Tanjore, world famous jasmine flower from Madurai, Essential Oil from Tamil Nadu’s Hill station, antique statues and home decors from Mahabalipuram and there’s lots of things to take away from India to your home.

10. India – Your Companion Country

While focusing on India’s beautiful landscapes, beaches, hill stations and many other tourist spots, you must definitely shift your focus towards the people of India, and their generosity, kindness, and reverence that they express to each other and as well as towards the people who come from other country. Indians usually admire people who belong to other countries and their lifestyles. Thus when people from abroad travel to India, the natives stretches their arms of warmth to make the travelers experience an intense cordiality. Indian society is very famous for a deep ingrained hospitality, and the travelers are well treated with utmost care concern and respect. There is famous quote from Baghavat Geeta that says – “Atithi Devo Bhava” which means “The guest is equivalent to God”. To be more specific, Baghavat Geeta affirms that it is the duty of human beings to respect and treat the guest with great reverence, in order to attain a spiritual reward. Right from ancient days till the present period people have been following the same, and because of that, the qualities of honouring, respecting and fulfilling the needs of the guests are naturally in built in them. Right from your arrival until your departure you will never be alienated, instead the Indians will make you feel the way that you are their own people.

We welcome you to India, to experience the supreme hospitality and embrace the diverse legacy of the country. Celebrate world tourism day, and turn that into the days of hog heaven by your visit to our Bharat.

A complete guide about World Travel Awards

What is World Travel Awards

WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS!!! WHAT IS IT? HOW DOES IT WORKS? YOUR QUESTIONS WERE ANSWERED!

India Nominees for the 30th Annual World Travel Awards announced!

Travel industry professionals, media, and consumers worldwide are invited to cast their votes for their favourite and most promising travel brands and the nominees that get the highest votes in each category will be announced as the 2023 World Travel Awards winner. Nominees this year cover a broad spectrum of categories including Travel Agencies and Tour Operators, Hotels & Resorts, Meetings & Events, Destinations, Tourist Attractions, Aviation, Car Hire, and Cruise, and all await to win this ultimate industry accolade.

If this is your first time hearing about this Award, here’s what you need to know about the prestigious World Travel Awards, how it works, and so on:

What is World Travel Awards?

World Travel Awards (WTA) are the Oscars of the Travel Industry. A global initiative, established in 1993 to acknowledge, reward, and celebrate excellence across all key sectors of the travel, tourism, and hospitality industries worldwide.

The World Travel Awards covers the globe with a series of regional gala ceremonies each year, to recognize excellence within each continent that wind up with the winners going head-to-head in a Grand Final at the end of the year. Attended by the industry’s key decision-makers, figureheads, influencers and media, the World Travel Awards gala ceremonies are regarded as milestone events in the travel calendar.

Who is The Founder of the World Travel Awards?

Mr.Graham Cooke is the founder and president of the World Travel Awards.

Are the World Travel Awards Legit?

Yes, World Travel Awards are legit. The World Travel Awards brand is today acknowledged globally as the ultimate hallmark of industry excellence.

How World Travel Awards Work?

World Travel Awards supports, promotes, and develops the international travel and tourism industry by recognizing and rewarding excellence and motivating its practitioners to raise the standards of their product and service offerings consistently. This is how WTA works.

The World Travel Awards organizes an extensive programme each year that covers a wide range of awards, created to honour the industry’s most vital sectors and product offerings. These Awards are presented across three tiers: regional, country, and world awards.

How Do You Get Nominated For World Travel Awards?

Those brands that are raising the bar of industry excellence and wish to be considered for the awards can submit their entry form online.

World Travel Awards 2022 Grand Final 2022 Winners

Your entry will be then checked and verified to ensure your nomination qualifies for the chosen award(s). Selected applicants will be notified and sent an invoice for the entry fee. (Entry fees apply for successful applications: Country/Sub-region awards – £399 and Regional awards – £499). No fee for unsuccessful applications.

After making the payment, your nomination will be added to the nominations for the following year and you will receive the Digital Nominee Pack (value £299) which includes the nominee shield, ‘vote for us’ button, web banners, and a dedicated voting web page to promote your nomination. The list of nominees will be revealed when voting opens. The Winner and two runners-up from the previous year do not need to submit an entry as they will automatically requalify for the same award.

How is the Voting Process?

The voting process is online. The votes come from qualified executives in the travel and tourism industry, media, as well as from consumer travel buyers. Votes cast by non-industry voters will count as one vote while votes cast by verified travel professionals carry a weighting of two.

CHOLAN TOURS – WORLD TRAVEL AWARD NOMINEE 2023

To be nominated for the prestigious World Travel Awards is a big honour and a fantastic recognition. We are incredibly proud and extremely glad to share that Cholan Tours makes it to the nominee list of ‘India’s Leading Destination Management Company 2023’ for this year’s World Travel Awards, marking yet another career milestone. This is such a great recognition for Cholan Tours which gives credence to the great teamwork and the quality of service we offer, motivating us to keep striving for excellence in what we do and add more value to our existence.

Over the past 2 decades, Cholan Tours has won numerous national and state awards as we continuously deliver our guest quality services throughout their tour. Three years in a row, Cholan Tours was nominated as ‘India’s Leading Tour Operator’ by the World Travel Awards in 2014, 2015, and 2016. And now we are nominated as ‘India’s Leading Destination Management Company 2023’. We already won your hearts and now we need your valuable votes to win the title too!

Voting has officially opened now and closes on 19th March 2023. Hurry up!!! it’s time to show your love and support to Cholan Tours.

All you have to do is visit: https://www.worldtravelawards.com/nominees/2023/india, register your email address, and cast your vote for Cholan Tours under the category “India’s Leading Destination Management Company”.

Good Luck to all nominees at World Travel Awards 2023, this is a big honour for all of us!

Note: Votes cast by verified travel professionals will count as two. They may apply to upgrade their account, by providing their company details in the Travel Industry Voters section on registration and submitting a minimum of 10 votes.

What should we learn from Covid-19 to avoid bigger problems in the future?

We know the whole world is staying indoors. We hope you are all safe in your home.

Read this piece to trigger your thought process for the betterment of Earth. As Iron Man is busy with his team of Avengers locked safely inside his garage, we can’t rely on superhumans any more and we need to become super-duper human beings. Everyone is welcome to comment on how they feel, measures governments should take on environmental policies, and anything you are waiting to convey right out of your heart about this planet.

A lengthy piece just to make you kill time in a productive way.

After the plague and World War II, the most infamous time for Earth is 2020. The beginning of a new decade has made millions to shut their doors. One single monster, an unknown satan; the master of pessimism; the evil of evils has been on a furious hunt since the start of the year. It is the most intelligent antagonist the world has ever seen. It even has a crown and is rising to the throne of the pandemic kingdom.

Stay Home and Safe! A Vigilante Vampire is on Blood Hunt

One terrifying visitor – Corona. The ultrasmart and untimely virus!

It is said to have been born in Wuhan, the cultural capital of China. We will not go into conspiracy theories of who did what for someone’s benefit and who controls WHO. A global centralized body for sports, medicine, archaeology, and scientific inventions won’t cover a larger radius unless staunch benefits are reaped from fewer corners of the world. It is apparent power, and money dictates the world, and so let us give it to gossips, as this whole human history is a string of robust gossip theories. Coming back to the mighty virus, this crowned devil seems to be a globetrotter and has eventually acquired greed over superpowers. Italy was not even in the game and was unaware such things will happen to the great Roman Empire.

While countries like Japan, Spain, Germany, the UK, the USA, and South Countries got severely hit by the novel coronavirus, Italians were having their coffee as usual. Their ignorance and impromptu actions are causing at least 500 deaths per day as we are writing this blog. We wish to see the raging Romans back as soon as possible. While recognizing the scary happenings of Italy, many countries have declared national lockdown. As the second-largest populated country in the world, India is under lockdown for 21 days (until April 14th). Three weeks straight! No gatherings, no parties, no night outs, no cinema, and all-day confined to the four walls of the home. Unless it is an emergency, no one ventures out, and this means human zoos are on activation for 21 days.

Corona is a cruel disease and has no direct vaccination so far, super deadly, yes, we accept that.

But, is it just Corona the world is fighting? What are we missing?

The simple question is – Are we homo sapiens living in total harmony with Nature?

The simple answer is – No. We see those people who find solace in Nature as superhumans or mystics. But in a country like India, it was not that case some 500 years back where spirituality and living in alignment with the cosmic geometry was an everyday happening; a natural habit. Slowly, even India due to its western influence has started to live in disharmony with nature. We need to see a whole lot of things happening around us and if we are not watchful, then some other better creatures deserve this planet.

A Brief Analysis of the World’s Approach to Wildlife

Let us see different aspects that are affecting human beings, wildlife, and the whole planet, including climate change and why slowing things on Earth will lead to a better life.

Let’s start from bats, the most dangerous carrier of the world’s most deadly diseases like the Nipah Virus and Ebola. Pangolins are blamed for Corona as if they asked us to chew them during dinner. Bats have the ability to transmit diseases more than any other creature due to their close proximity and maybe omission of sunlight too. For example, pig farms that are located in areas where bats are densely populated are more prone to carrying zoonotic viruses and only support systems are available so far. According to Healthcare in America Doctor Melvin Sanicas, bats have a unique antiviral immune system within them and so aren’t affected much. But human beings don’t carry the DNA and RNA of a bat to enjoy them in a mid-morning soup. It is always better to stay away from animal habitats. Poaching and Cattle grazing is not only causing the life of animals. Every inch of forest land unconsciously taken, takes humanity several steps toward pandemics.

Wildlife Trade – Time to Analyse our Eating Habits

The importance of habitats for individual species needs special attention and a movie released in the 2011 – Contagion is ahead of time. Not a recommended movie to watch during this crisis yet an effective film that conveys about a deadly virus that spreads from bats through pig farms. To combat habitat threats to animals, illegal wildlife trade should be cut off. Rare and endangered populations of animals have become rare and endangered due to heavy human intervention. From chopping off shark fins for soup and throwing them back to the ocean only to die, to killing tusked elephants for a mere showcase piece, we are evolving as a generation disrespecting other creatures on the planet. As if only human life is precious and other lives have no purpose. This needs to change. The IUCN Red List keeps increasing and that means we are creating a big gap in the ecological chain. And, we are paying the price now confined in homes using “break the chain” hashtags. The dangerous delicacy of consuming shark fin soups started widely in China when the economic boom happened between 1985 and 2001. Still, the Shark Trade Act is pending for approval in the USA. Sharks play a major role in conserving the ecological balance of the sea and are not ready to shed off their fins to feed people who have a powerful economic status. It is always the environment that comes before the economy and if that is not the case, welcome to human zoos! We need to eat for a healthy body and not for the pleasure of eating. If this mindset prevails, we can consume less meat and more plant-based protein that suits our modern lifestyle.

The Curse of the Lungs of the World to Our Lungs

Do we really care about other lives on Earth? Should our global leaders discuss more on environmental health more than conversations about oil trade, nuclear weapons, and power? It is okay to chop off a few trees for livelihood but it is unimaginably destructive to burn a whole forest. Under Jair Bolsonaro, in an attempt to increase agricultural activity, mass deforestation activities were carried out in the form of a forest fire. This resulted in burning 7,200 square miles of Amazon forests which equals the size of New Jersey. In the last 50 years, close to 20 percent of the Amazon Rainforests have been lost to the forest fire. Only a substantial amount of international pressure can stop this insane activity to cease in the coming months of 2020. Likewise, the Australian Bushfire last year till January 2020 has resulted in the death of more than 500 million animals. Koalas, the native of Australia are nearing extinction due to the uncontrollable fire of the Kangaroo Land.

Incidents like these were happening in the past also and ever since 2010, Amazon forest fire of 2019 is the worst and it is like Amazon is again losing its lushness according to Ane Alencar, the director of science at the Amazon Environmental Research Institute (IPAM). Now, it is like revenge of Amazon causing millions to suffer from the novel Corona which attacks the lungs. Nature can become incredibly cruel and its army is sometimes invisible and invincible.

A simple way to check how things are going in the world – If your child wishes to read about Amazon Rainforest and simply types “Amazon” on your tab, the world knows what Google will show. Ah! You too forgot about the rainforest for a bit and thought of buying something right? That’s our problem. We need to change so that everybody stops selling something all the time. We need to slow down a bit and the world will adjust to start living with utmost consciousness. Covid-19 is teaching the whole world without boards and markers. Fear is a useful master at times!

Mindless Production of Automobiles

About one-third of air pollution in the USA is due to Vehicles. The style and comfort icons not only cause trouble to the environment while functioning, but their remnants such as plastics, car battery acids also create turmoil wherever they are dumped. Although reduce, reuse, recycle chants reverberate everywhere on our planet, the mindless production of automobiles increases permanent carbon footprints. To fuel these luxury wheels and for other pieces of machinery, oil is the most wanted war-invoking commodity in trade. Oil spills are a common happening in the Oceans and that has the potential to harm marine life for decades. Poor air quality, road infrastructure harming everything en route, and inability to recycle make Air Pollution a global issue. Due to Tuberculosis, 1.5 million deaths have been reported in 2018, one of the top 10 deadly diseases on Earth according to WHO.

It is not that every invention or creation is bad for the world. Those who innovate for the betterment of the world with negligible damage to the surroundings should be supported. For example, the CEO of TESLA, Elon Musk suggests consuming less meat, following a plant-based diet, going solar, leaving less carbon footprint, and using public transport as a starter. His innovative electric cars if further efficiently designed with reusable batteries can cut pollution on a huge level. We hope more sustainable electric cars will hit the market and take over the petrol and diesel car market. We need to go green and more NGOs should come forward without powerful backup batteries. Those mindful NGOs shouldn’t be influenced by the leaders of the world. Not every invention is good for the world too.

The Connection Between Corona and Cancer

The top 12 countries with the most cancer patients are geographically confined to Europe, North America, and Oceania (World Cancer Research Fund International) Excluding Oceania, the most corona affected countries belong to North America and Europe. What does this mean? It means those countries need to reorganize their eating habits and should improve their immune system. How can you say a country is powerful solely based on economy and nuclear weapons? Healthy people maketh a healthy and powerful nation. More than 40% of the American population have chronic ailments, meaning a compromised immune system. This needs to change and people are into medication. Instead of medication, they can try meditation and learn yoga from countries like India.

Bowel cancer is associated with higher consumption of red meat and the study by WebMD proves a 10% inclusion of junk food to your diet can increase the chance of cancer by 12%. Not trying to belittle the eating habits of the USA but they create the trend. From coca-cola to denim jeans to burgers, the world follows the path of the United States of America. Most of their diet consists of processed foods and meat. They must learn to eat and drink less and switch over to Yogic foods and lifestyles that are fresh and virile respectively. “Puffers” and “Floaters” Contribute to more Death in the USA with Belarus being the most alcohol drinking nation in the world. One in five Americans die due to Cigarette smoking and that is 4,80,000 deaths per year. While close to 90,000 people die due to Alcohol consumption every single year. Corona will cause more harm to the lungs of smokers and immunity compromised drinkers. So, the world need not worry about Corona and focus more on improving their immune system through a good lifestyle. Puff and drink once in a blue moon!

Road Accidents – Slow is the New Cool!

Speeding vehicles are demons in disguise and why the hell the whole world is overspeeding? This is a serious issue as beautiful and clean highways have killed more people than many viruses in the world. Drinking is often connected to road deaths next to speeding and lack of attention. The lack of attention, responsibility, and accountability are other reasons. There is a separate track to race and there is a separate track to just go from Point A from Point B. Weekends, night out, consumption of alcohol, overspeeding, inexperience, and underage are the most vital reasons for teen deaths.

We are every day getting closer to our grave and so the world should learn to live gracefully. Speeding drivers must know beautiful families can go orphan if enough focus ain’t put. There is constant stress to drink on weekends. To get high? No! You get weak and in the pursuit of finding new substances outside, many underestimate the substance inside – Life! To be alive is precious and every day above the ground is a good day as Al Pacino said. Again, each and every country in the world should set speed limits for civilians. Unless for healthcare emergencies and military actions, why should someone drive faster than 40-45 miles per hour? Let us all slow down things and learn to appreciate creative hoardings in traffic and without any rage, drive with complete accountability. Commute can also be pleasant and the need to produce speeding vehicles will come down in the years. This takes us to Climate Change and the world’s approach to it. How aware are we about the melting icebergs of Antarctica and Greta Thunberg’s campaigns?

Climate Change – How could we smile when Planet Earth sobs?

Our world had been through many phases, from ending dinosaurs in the Cretaceous Era to devouring many islands. That’s natural. But human-caused climate change is becoming a serious emergency. Before the industrial revolution (1750) atmospheric co2 emission was under 282 ppm and in 2019 it was 411 ppm. Our planet is one degree hotter than what it was in the industrial period. From summers and winters getting warmer, from Indonesia losing 25 cm of its capital city to the ocean every year, and wildlife population dropping by 60 percent in the 50 years according to the Living Planet report, to increase of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes that cause Dengue due to global warming, Climate change should be given the top priority in all global meetings of leaders. Teen activists like Greta Thunberg are trying too hard to wake up dormant leaders and Hollywood celebrities like Leonardo De Caprio fill their social media pages not with their upcoming movie posters but about rivers drying, polar bears thinning in Antarctica, and lakhs of forest lands being burnt for cattle grazing. Valuing the life of every creature on Earth should be taught from childhood in schools before teaching addition and subtraction. More family time should be encouraged and people should work to live and not the other way around.

Overtourism is another potential harm to a particular place as if India only has Taj Mahal, Jordan only has Petra, Peru only has Machu Picchu, and France only has Paris and Eiffel Tower, the world of travelers and tourists must discover new possibilities and shouldn’t tour just for a selfie before a popular place. There are many wonders on Earth and so don’t go to a country just to see a particular place since everybody is talking or tweeting about it. Take the road less traveled.

Let not open up Mars before we find a vaccine for SARS. We should take care of the earth before knowing the depths of other planets. Governments should stop invoking regional and religious riots in their policies and campaigns. Let us all learn to adjust to create some space for all life on this planet.

Corona – The last wake up call to humanity! Moderation is the key.

Let us all take these 10 oaths to

Think about hunger before devouring the burger
Allow children to just be them without mining for gold
Learn to appreciate all life on earth.
Drink and eat mindfully. Consume less.
Observe our breathing pattern.
Check our postures and stretch often.
Spend at least an hour in the open.
Make digital detox family time every single day
Do physical activity at least for 15 mins daily.
Experience the beauty of Sunrise and Sunset daily.

We as a sustainable travel family hope, this little piece of mind gave the necessary fuel to ignite kind thoughts. Create a beautiful world and may all life on Earth thrive! Peace.

#StayHomeStaySafe #Youcantraveltomorrow #cholantours

Museums are the places where the history is represented at its best. For a country like India which has a multicultural heritage, documenting the different verticals across the regions becomes essential to pass on the legacy through generations. Ancient heritage, culturally rich antiquities, costumes, arms, sculptures, remains of the magnificent ancient buildings, testimonies of the different sects and religions followed, numismatics, anthropology, natural history are some of the domains focused by the museums in India.

Every part of India hase many museum run by the Archeological department of India, the respective state governments and few individuals on their own interest. The museum are on different genres and there are museums exclusively for Toys & Dolls, Buddhism, ancient Jails, Submarines, Rails and the list goes on.

This article aims to showcase some of the most popular museums in the states and union territories of India, the country with a vibrant past and an equally rich culture and heritage, carried on through centuries. Let us together get to know why is India incredible!

Salar Jung Museum

Salar Jung Museum , highlighted as India’s Third Largest Museum houses finest artefacts taking you on a time travel to the bygone days of history. Located on the banks of the famous Musi River, Salar Jung Museum, founded in 1951, has been an unique attraction for tourists, history buffs and art lovers. The artefacts and the printed materials collected by the Salar Jung, after whom the museum is named, arranged in over 38 galleries are a retreat to the visitors.

Things to do in Salar Jung Museum:

Explore the pages of history in the 9000 manuscripts, 47000 printed materials and art objects counting up to 43000 exhibited in the two floors of Salar Jung Museum. Ivory furniture, clocks from China, Indian Miniature paintings, Persian Manuscripts are some of the few collections present in Salar Jung Musuem.

Entry Timings:

10.00 AM to 5.00 PM (Closed on Fridays)

Entry Fee:

Indian / Kids : Rs 5 and Adults : Rs.10

Visitors from other Nations: Rs.150

Still Camera: Rs.50

Amaravati Archaeological Museum

The Archaeology museum in Amaravati houses the finest collection of artefacts from different Buddhist regions across Andhra Pradesh. The rarest of collections belong to the period anywhere between 3^rd and 12^th century and it is very apt that a Buddhist related museum has been established Amaravati, a 2000 years old Buddhist settlement.

Things to do in Amaravati Archaeological Museum:

Explore the galleries where the artefacts inferring the evolution of Buddhism in the region. Marvel the grandeur of the giant bronze stupa of Lord Buddha. Find the remains of the ruins of a magnificent stupa which is believed to have been larger than the one at Sanchi. The variety of statues and other artefacts receive universal admirations for the intrinsic art work. Know more about the imprints of Buddhism in this vast museum.

Entry Timings:

10.00 AM to 5.00 PM (Closed on Fridays)

INS Kursura Museum

The submarine museum INS Kursura on the Vishakapatnam Beach exhibiting the progressive development of the submarine arm is an interesting tourist location to explore around while you are touring in Andhra Pradesh. The beauty of Vishakapatnam Beach gets enhanced with the INS Kursura Museum, a must visit location to know about the technological advancement of Indian Submarine.The exhibits of the photographs and written scripts give us a better insight.

Things To Do at INS Kursura:

Witness the artefacts taken from different periods of Indian Submarine History. Explore the different parts of the India’s Fourth Submarine INS Kursura.

Entry Timings:

2.00 PM to 8.30PM (Closed on Mondays)

Kalapani Museum

Kalapani Museum or Cellular Jail is the most murkiest testimony of British Raj in India. Situated in Port Blair of Andaman, the Kalapani Museum, brings to you the hardest past of the Pre independent India, where the lives of hundreds of freedom fighters were in a turmoil and ended with most cruel punishments. Kalapani Museum is a must visit spot if you are touring in Andaman.

How To Reach

The Cellular Jail is reachable from anywhere in the city of Port Blair using any mode of Transport

Things To Do in Kalapani Museum:

Exploring the life of freedom fighters when they were in the individual cells through the Library, and photo gallery arranged in the remnants of the magnificent structure. Also attend a light & sound show which visually rewinds the history. Witness the Swathanthra Jyoti, erected in memory of the freedom fighters, who lost their lives for the country.

Entry Timings:

9.00 AM to 12.30 PM & 1.45 PM to 4.45 PM (on all days except national holidays)

Timings of Light & Sound Show:

Hindi: 06:00 PM & 07:15 PM, Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday
English: 07:15 pm, Monday, Wednesday & Friday

Entry Fee:

Entry fee (Sound-Light Show) for Adult is 50/- (INR)

Entry Fee (INR): RS 30/-
Camera: Rs 200/-
Video Camera: Rs 1000/-
Film shooting per day with prior permission: Rs 10000/-

Anthropological Musuem

If you want to get a deeper insight into the life of the Paleolithic islanders, then the Anthropological Museum situated at the center of Port Blair in Andaman will be an ideal choice. Know more about world’s one of the oldest tribes in this museum with the major exhibits such as Jarawas, Shompens and Nicobarese and many more in the list, making this museum a “must visit” touristic location to explore the history.

How To Reach:

Anthropological museum is located in MG Road, Port Blair which can be reached very easily from anywhere in the city.

Things to do in Anthropological Museum:

The anthropological museum has exhaustive list of exhibits including portraits , photographs and models representing the tribal communities of Andaman, from which the visitors know more about them.

Entry Timings:

9.00 AM to 1.00 PM & 1.30 PM to 4.30 PM

Note: Closed on Mondays and on all Government Holidays

Black Magic and Witchcraft Museum

Mayong village in Assam is known as the Black Magic capital of India. Recent archaeological excavations have shown relics from which we can infer that there had been sacrifices of human and animals until the end of Ahom period and even till the beginning of modern times. Though Mayong has been in the history for a long time with its black magi, the village and the surrounding regions are known as a prominent tourist attraction for its rich wildlife and gushing rivers.

Things to do in and around Mayong:

Probitara wildlife sanctuary, adjacent to Mayong village attracts more number of tourists every year. If you are an adventure lover, then Mayong and the nearby sanctuary aAssam state museum will be the ideal choice to take up trekking into the unexplored regions and go on a river rafting to explore the regions around.

Best time to visit:

Rainy seasons are not suitable for the water related sports. It is ideal to visit Mayong from November to March to enjoy the nature’s beauty thoroughly.

How To Reach Mayong:

Mayong is situated very near to Guwahati, from where lot of rented vehicles and public transports ply.

Assam State Museum

Assam State Museum, located very close to the state capital Guwahati, is highlighted in the list of tourist locations to visit for its uniqueness and rich diverse collection of artefacts in various verticals. Natural history, Folk art forms, epigraphy are few of the domains covered and the actual list is very long to explore. The exhibits collected from different regions over different time periods kindle the interest of history buffs and art lovers invariably.

Things to do in Assam State Museum:

Explore the aesthetically arranged collections of wonderful exhibits in the different sections like epigraphy, history, cultures, art etc., Marvel the uniqueness and beauty of the objects made of steel, woods and other different materials like terracotta. An exclusive library is also there to cater to the interest of book lovers who would like to access the reading section housed with books on various genres.

How To Reach Assam State Musuem:

It is located at just one kilometer from Guwahati railway station and is at the well populated center of the city.

Best time to Visit Assam State Museum:

Winters are the best season for comfortable exploration of the museum during your trip to Assam.

Entry Timings:

You can visit Assam State Museum between 10.00 AM to 5.00 PM

Note: Museum is closed on Mondays, 2^nd & 4^th Saturdays and all Government Holidays.

Entry Fee:

Indian Visitors:

Adults – Rs.20

Students – Rs.10

Children below 10 years – Free

Visitors from other countries – Rs. 100

Patna Museum

Known from the historic times as Patliputra, and the present day capital city of Bihar, Patna houses a unique museum, which is a “Must Visit” location in Patna. The Patna museum is built with a blend of Rajput and Mughal architectural styles, is home for artefacts dating back to Magadha Empire. The relics reminding the vibrant history Mauryas and Gupthas must be the most favorite section for the history buffs and researchers.

Things To Do in Patna Museum:

Explore the unique collections at Patna Museum, made of different materials. Highlights of the Patna Museum are the cannon used during the First World War and a 200 million years old fossil tree, considered to be the world’s oldest fossil tree. Patna Museum boasts diversified artifacts, exhibiting the relics related to Buddhism, Jainism and Chinese art forms.

How To Reach Patna Musuem:

Patna Museum is easily accessible from anywhere in the city. Another popular landmark near this museum is the Indira Gandhi Planetarium.

Best Time To Visit:

Winter season will be ideal to visit Bihar, though the museum and the nearby tourist attractions are year round destinations.

Entry Timings:

Patna Museum can be visited between 10.30 AM and 5.00 PM except on Mondays and on all Public Holidays.

Gaya Museum

The archaeological museum is located very close to the Mahabodhi temple in Bodhgaya. The prime attractions of this museum are the artefacts related to Buddhism. Stone sculptures, images and other relics make this a great place to visit.

Things to do in Gaya Museum:

Explore the two galleries exhibiting the artistic collections. Marvel the huge idols of Lord Gautama Buddha, founder of Buddhism and statue of Lord Vishnu in one of His incarnations called Varaha Avatar.

How to Reach Gaya Museum:

Gaya Museum is a very prominent location as it is very close to the renowned Mahabodhi temple frequented by devotees and tourists.

Best Time to visit:

Gaya Museum is a year round destination.

Mahant Ghasidas Sangrahalay

One of the first ten museums of the country, Mahant Ghasidas Sangrahalay was instituted in 1875. The ancient museum houses rarest of artefacts collected from across Chattisgarh state which includes wooden art works dating back to even 2^nd century BC and coins used during the Kalchuriyen Kings.

Things to do in Mahant Ghasidas Sangrahalay

Visit the multipurpose museum housing exhibits of different categories. Tribal cultures, specimens of animals and birds, stone tools used in the prehistoric period, copper plates, bronze statues are some of the things portrayed in Mahant Ghasidas Sangrahalay museum. It is more of a museum and the library housed here deserves a special mention for the finest collection of books, images and coins.

How To Reach?

The museum is situated in Raipur city of Chattisgarh and easily accessible.

Best Time to Visit:

The museum is a year round destination to visit.

Purkhauti Muktangan

The blissful garden as well as the museum set up in an open air draws tourists and the locals alike with its ambiance. Set up 1996, Purkhauti Muktangan museum is highly suitable for picnics and day excursions.

Things to do in Purkhauti Muktangan:

Get a deeper insight about the Bastar tribes, native of Chattisgarh. The life sized statues, habitats, art forms and folk dances give you the best of information about them. Roam around to get connected to one of the prominent tourist attractions of Chattisgarh.

How to Reach:

Purkhauti Muktangan is located in Naya Raipur, 19kms away from the main Raipur city and 15kms from the airport.

Best Time to visit:

During September to March, it will be ideal to visit the place.

Government Museum and Art Gallery

The multipurpose museum named as Government Museum and Art Gallery in Chandigarh is one of the few important museums in India. The museum is popular for the Ghandara Sculptures, miniature paintings in Rajasthani style. Before partitioning India, the museum was in Lahore and later part of the treasures got shifted to different places and finally to the present day building.

Things To Do in Government Museum and Art Gallery:

Marvel the largest collections of Gandhara Sculptures, an art form developed in the northwestern Pakistan and East Afghanistan during the period between 1^st and 7^th century CE. The Greco-Roman styles are reflected greatly in the Ghandhara sculptures. Witness the beauty of the miniature paintings made with the grand Rajasthani styles. An exclusive library will be the interesting part for the book lovers, historians and researchers.

How To Reach?

The museum is established in Sector 10-C in Chandigarh, opposite to Leisure Valley and Rose Garden, with a scenic backdrop of the Shiwalik hill ranges.

Best Time to Visit:

Between October and March, the climate will be at your favor, to explore the region thoroughly.

Natural History Museum

Children will love visiting this museum which houses collections about the natural history and evolution of mankind over the centuries. Established in 1973, the Natural History Museum of Chandigarh attracts tourists and the natives alike to enjoy the exhibits.

Things to do in Natural History Museum:

Explore the four major sections themed at Redefining our Past, Evolution of Life, Indian Dinosaurs and Evolution of mankind. Marvel the beauty of the featured fossils, models of dinosaurs, pictures of birds and animals made of hand embroidery. Children will enjoy the exhibits and the entire collections will be fascinating for the historian and researchers.

How To Reach Natural History Museum:

Natural History Museum is located in Sector-10C, close to the Government Museum and Art Gallery.

Best Time to Visit:

Between October and March, the climate will be at your favor, to explore the region thoroughly.

International Dolls Museum

Visit International Dolls Museum at Chandigarh located inside the popular Rock Garden, a must visit location for children during your tour to Chandigarh. The museum houses the diversified collection of dolls representing different countries ranging from Latin America to Russia and also all Indian states. The kids will feel like being in a fairyland here with all the dolls.

Things To Do at International Dolls Museum:

Know more about the culture and tradition of different countries and states from the dolls wearing the respective traditional outfits. Enjoy the depiction of fairy tales and mythological stories, the all time favorites for children. Though it is a small museum, the collections of dolls are the finest one to enjoy.

How To Reach International Dolls Museum:

The International Dolls Museum is located in Bal Bhawan, Sector-23 in Chandigarh.

Best Time to Visit:

Between October and March, the climate will be at your favor, to explore the region thoroughly.