Travel in India – English Articles on India
Langza – A Treasure For Tethys Sea Fossils (6/26/2020) - Langza at an elevation of 14,500 feet is commonly known as the “Fossil Village” in the brutally stark cold desert mountain valley of Spiti devoid of vegetative cover. The treacherous roads of Manali through Rohtang Pass to reach Langza is definitely not for the faint-hearted. The bad roads with almost blind corners with no barriers... Continue Reading →
Bikaner – A Street Food Paradise (6/29/2020) - Bikaner is a land of staggering wealth, beauty, music, culture and food so unique that it will surely send you to a heavenly world for a few hours at least! Bikaner, situated in the middle of the Thar desert is a princely state since about the 15th century. What is quite remarkable is the staunch... Continue Reading →
Endarō mahānubhāvulu – Decoding Saint Tyāgarāja’s Pancharatna kritis (7/1/2020) - “Endarō mahānubhāvulu – Salutations to all the Mahātmas in this world” is undoubtedly one of the most iconic and revered musical compositions. The lyrical masterpiece when sung and heard with utmost faith and devotion is enthralling and brings tears of joy in one’s eyes. The glorious splendour of Sri Rama described in admiration and... Continue Reading →
Naida Caves – A labyrinth of underground caves (7/8/2020) - Located in the picturesque Union Territory of Diu, Naida Caves that is just outside the city wall of the Diu Fort is a bit of a geological conundrum. No one seems to have a clear idea about the origin of the caves. Locals say that sections of this impressive rock formation were broken by the... Continue Reading →
Sheesh Mahal of Amber Fort – Stars in the Day! (7/10/2020) - Sheesh Mahal or the Mirror Palace in the Amber Fort in Jaipur as it is known is an outstanding example of innovation, illusion, craftsmanship, detailing, architecture, art and construction technique so progressive for the 16th century that it leaves one gasping with awe and shock on first glimpse. Locals and history books say that... Continue Reading →
Vaishnava Jana To – Decoding Narsinh Mehta’s crown jewel (7/15/2020) - “Vaiṣṇava jana to tene kahiye je pīḍa parāyī jāṇe re, para duḥkhe upakāra kare to ye mana abhimāna na āṇe re Call those people Vaishnav who Feel the pain of others, Help those who are in misery, But never let self-conceit enter their mind. sakaḷa loka māṁ sahune vande, nindā na kare kenī re,... Continue Reading →
Jamjir Falls – A Divine Cascade (7/17/2020) - Jamjir Falls on the Singoda River makes for an idyllic setting to sketch or paint a watercolour or relax and take in the scenic spectacle in the famous Sasan Gir Forest. This well-hidden picturesque locale is for those who love the off-beat. You can see the water ravines and the thick wooded areas as you... Continue Reading →
Anandilal Poddar Haveli, Nawalgarh – Rich Grandeur and Splendour of the Rajput era (7/20/2020) - Nawalgarh, considered to be one of the most modern towns of Shekhawati in Rajasthan is famous for its frescoes and havelis and is also the motherland of some of the great business families of India. A walk around Nawalgarh will give you a glimpse of the opulent lifestyle of the wealthy merchants, the staggering wealth seen... Continue Reading →
Jantar Mantar at Jaipur – An Astronomical Observation Site (7/21/2020) - Jantar Mantar literally means “instruments for measuring the heavens” and indeed, what an outstanding testimony of the scientific and technical conceptions of time and space it is! Jantar Mantar in Jaipur is the largest, best preserved, fully functional and most complete of the five observatories built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II and boasts... Continue Reading →
Meenakaari – An Ancient Indian Jewellery Tradition (7/22/2020) - The word ‘meenakaari’ is derived from the Persian word mina or minoo, which means ‘heaven or paradise’ and kaari means “to do” and together it means to put or place paradise in an object. The history of meenakaari can be traced back to the Sassanid period in Persia where a few notes have been made... Continue Reading →
Govind Bhog Rice and Katarni Rice of Bihar (7/23/2020) - The legendary Govind Bhog rice that derives its name from its usage as the main ingredient in the preparation of offerings to Lord Govinda has a very interesting history behind its cultivation in the Kaimur district of Bihar. Mokri village that is situated under the Maa Mundeshwari hill of Kaimur district of Bihar is... Continue Reading →
Kodaikanal Malai Poondu (7/24/2020) - The picturesque Kodaikanal Hills in Dindigul district is famous for its lush greenery, ancient temples of Lord Murugan and of course, the exotic Kodaikanal Malai Poondu (Kodaikanal Hill Garlic). Also known as Melmalai Poondu, this centuries-old indigenous crop is known for its medicinal and preservative properties. The heady aroma and unique taste are attributed... Continue Reading →
Meerut Scissors (7/27/2020) - The vibrant city of Meerut with its rich history and culture is famous for its unique, inexpensive and one-of-a-kind scissors. The scissor manufacturing industry has been thriving in Meerut since the 17th century. Locals say that a resident blacksmith by the name of Akhunji combined two swords to cut leather in 1645 during the Mughal... Continue Reading →
Kannauj – Perfume capital of India (7/28/2020) - Strategically located on the banks of River Ganga, the city of Kannauj was once an important trading hub for Indian perfumes, spices and silks that were sent mainly to the countries in the Middle East. The city has a glorious history with its strong connections to the Ramayana and Mahabharat as well as being the... Continue Reading →
Kanpur Saddlery (7/30/2020) - Roughly three hundred years ago (1800s), British officers living in Kanpur started the British India Corporation (BIC) in the ‘Harness Factory’ presently known as the ‘Ordnance Equipment Factory’ at Kanpur to cater to the needs of the British Army and Police. They taught local tanneries to make saddles for their horses, army boots and shoes.... Continue Reading →
Gorakhpur Terracotta (8/1/2020) - The highly acclaimed terracotta of Gorakhpur made from the special soil found in Bhathat area of Uttar Pradesh stands testimony to thousands of years of traditional art. The richness of this art seen in the different designs and types of bells, vases, Ganeshas, Buddhas, tables, elephants with mahouts, deer, horses, bullock carts, horse carts, lamps... Continue Reading →
Chak-hao of Manipur (8/3/2020) - Chak-hao, an indigenous black rice has been cultivated in the plains and hills of Manipur and Nagaland for centuries. This scented glutinous rice has an intense dark purple-hued outer bran layer which almost looks black, a distinctive fragrance and taste. The two varieties of Chak-hao namely Chak-hao Poireiton and Chak-hao Ambui are used largely for... Continue Reading →
Tuti Jharna, Ramgarh, Jharkhand (8/4/2020) - The ancient Lord Shiva temple known as ‘Tuti Jharna’ meaning Broken Waterfall is situated in the picturesque Ramgarh in the state of Jharkhand. The discovery of this temple dates back to 1925 when the British were working on laying the railway line between Barkakana and Gomoh and hit upon the dome of the temple while digging.... Continue Reading →
Magahi Paan (8/11/2020) - Paan ka patha or betel leaf has been inherent in the ancient culture of India where it features as an important symbolism in the lives of aristocrats as well as commoners. Its use in India dates back to 400 BC where ancient books of Ayurveda, Charaka, Sushruta and others mention the importance of chewing betel leaf... Continue Reading →
Himachali Chulli Oil (8/11/2020) - Even though chulli or wild apricot grows abundantly in the districts of Shimla, Kullu, Chamba, Sirmour, Kinnaur and Lahaul-Spiti of Himachal Pradesh, it is primarily identified with Kinnaur. Chulli oil or otherwise locally known as ‘Gutti ka tel’ is extracted from the kernels of wild apricots in almost all the households for domestic consumption. ... Continue Reading →
Srivilliputtur Palkova (8/13/2020) - Srivilliputtur is not only famous for Sri Aandal temple but also for the legendary ‘palkova’ – a sweet made from cow’s milk and sugar. Locals say that it has been traditionally manufactured and sold since 1940 and is the main cottage industry of the Srivilliputtur area. The history of this delicious palkova can be... Continue Reading →
Sirsi Supari (8/14/2020) - Chewing areca nut or betel nut or ‘supari‘ as it is commonly known has been prevalent for at least 2000 years if not more with its history being traced back to the Aryans. It is believed that areca nut or supari has been grown extensively since the Vedic period. One finds innumerable references of... Continue Reading →
Kedareshwar Cave at Harishchandragad, Ahmednagar, Maharashtra (8/17/2020) - The ancient hill-fort of Harishchandragad located in Malshej Ghat in the district of Ahmednagar at about an altitude of 4,670 ft is a historical treasure chest. It is believed to have conclusive finds of microlith (chipped stone used as tools) used by man about 35,000-3,000 years ago in the Microlithic Age. This sacred place has... Continue Reading →
Byadagi Chilli (Byadgi Chilli) of Karnataka (8/18/2020) - The Byadagi Chilli that is mainly grown in the districts of Dharwad, Haveri and Gadag in the state of Karnataka is famous for its essentially sweet and not spicy nature and its importance in the oleoresin industry. Byadagi chillies are fully wrinkled, long in size and have the highest level of dark red in the... Continue Reading →
Kovilpatti Kadalai Mittai (8/20/2020) - In the 1940s, Ponnambala Nadar, a resourceful grocery store owner decided to use sugarcane jaggery (gur) and peanuts to make the kadalai mittai shifting from the traditional preparation of Kovilpatti Kadalai Mittai using palm jaggery and groundnuts locally available in nearby districts. Locals say that for decades Kovilpatti kadalai mittai was prepared during village festivals... Continue Reading →
Allahabad Surkha Guava (8/24/2020) - A famous poet Akbar Allahabadi from Prayagraj had once remarked in the late 1800s that the guava of Allahabad is a divine fruit whose rightful place is in the land of God. His words it would appear carries tremendous weight as over the years, Allahabad Surkha Guava is often called as a heavenly delight by... Continue Reading →
Jeeraphool Rice of Chhattisgarh (8/25/2020) - Chhattisgarh, traditionally known as the rice bowl of India is home to over 20,000 varieties of indigenous rice. The somewhat wild types, cultivated types, aromatic and non-aromatic rice have a vast diverse presence throughout the state. Each district in Chhattisgarh has a unique aromatic rice variety that has been in existence for hundreds of years.... Continue Reading →
Shahi Litchi of Bihar (8/26/2020) - Litchi or lychee was initially introduced in Bengal and gradually spread to Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and Punjab. The humid conditions and alluvial soil which is rich in calcium in Muzaffarpur and Darbhanga as well as nearby areas proved ideal for litchi cultivation in Bihar. In fact, litchi has been an important fruit crop of Muzaffarpur... Continue Reading →
Warli House of Maharashtra (8/27/2020) - Ancient history has showed us that paintings have been used as a means of communication be it the cave paintings of early man or the archaeological finds of many great civilizations or the pictographs seen in later settlements. The origin of Warli art can be traced back to about 15,000 years ago. Warli house is... Continue Reading →
Krishnabai Temple, Old Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra (8/28/2020) - Kshetra Mahabaleshwar is very famous for three temples namely Panchaganga, Mahabaleshwar and Krishnabai. Panchaganga temple is probably the most well-known of the three as the waters of five rivers Koyna, Krishna, Venna, Savitri and Gayatri come together in this temple. Close to the Panchaganga temple is a well-marked trail that leads to the beautiful Krishnabai... Continue Reading →
Nirmal Toys and Craft of Telangana (8/31/2020) - Nirmal craft draws its name from one of the most famous rulers of the 17th century namely Nimma Naidu who was a great patron of arts. Seeing the exquisite detailing and craftsmanship of the toys, He encouraged the art of toy-making that thrived during his reign and brought fame to the town of Nirmal in... Continue Reading →
Etikoppaka Toys of Andhra Pradesh (9/1/2020) - The art of making traditional wooden Etikoppaka toys, popularly known as Lakkapidathalu is more than 400 years old. The quaint village of Etikopakka located on the banks of the river Varaha is renowned for its lacquer coated wooden toys and this art of toy-making also known as turned wood lacquer craft was patronized by affluent landlords... Continue Reading →
Varanasi Wooden Lacquerware and Toys (9/2/2020) - For many years, Varanasi in the state of Uttar Pradesh was considered to be one of the largest toy-making centres in India. This ancient craft is believed to have received great patronage from many kings as well as from the Mughals and British. There is not much information available about the origin of this craft... Continue Reading →
Bhunga House – A Traditional Mud House of Kutch (9/3/2020) - After the devastating earthquake of 1819, the people of Kutch came up with an innovative circular design of bhungas to minimize the damage to their lives as well as properties. The reworked design of bhungas that is about 200 years old stood very firm during the earthquake of 2001 when it was very close to... Continue Reading →
Brij Raj Swamy Temple at Nurpur Fort, Kangra, Himachal Pradesh (9/4/2020) - Nurpur formerly known as Dhameri in the ancient times is located in the scenic Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh. The beautiful fort of Dhameri was built by Raja Basu Dev, the then ruler of Pathankot of the Pathania clan in the late 16th century. The historic fort offers a mesmerizing view of Jabhar Khud, a... Continue Reading →
Uttarakhand Tejpat (9/7/2020) - The aromatic Indian Bay Leaf is one of the oldest and most popular spices used in most cuisines of the world. The active ingredient Cinnamaldehyde is found in high quantity in the famed Uttarakhand Tejpat also known as Meetha Tejpat and used in the preparation of Chyavanprash, Ayurvedic medicines and in the spice industry. Uttarakhand Tejpat... Continue Reading →
Odisha Rasagola (9/8/2020) - Historical records of the origin of the mouth-watering Odisha Rasagola dates back to at least 800 years. There is a sacred tradition of rasagolas offered to Lord Jagannath as part of bhog for centuries. It is believed that the culinary delight formed a significant part of the age-old rituals of Niladri Bije of the Jagannath temple... Continue Reading →
Naga Tree Tomato (9/9/2020) - Nagaland is a North eastern Indian state rich in vegetation and famous for its organic farming. The unique traits of the fertile soil, subtropical climate and average annual rainfall ranging from 1800 mm – 2500 mm has aided the production of organic crops as well as traditional farming methodology. Naga tree tomato according to... Continue Reading →
Fossil-rich grounds of Ariyalur in Tamil Nadu (9/11/2020) - The Ariyalur district located on the busy highway between Chennai and Trichy unknown to many is a geologist’s treasure trove. In 1843, ‘strange stone objects’ were collected by the British in the Ariyalur region. Soon, geologists from all over the world descended upon this small town to discover much to their amazement a rich fossil... Continue Reading →
Ratlami Sev of Madhya Pradesh (9/14/2020) - Ratlam, now a small town in the Malwa region in Madhya Pradesh was actually a princely state with great culture and heritage. Formerly known as Ratnapuri, Ratlam now is an important junction in Madhya Pradesh and most of the long-distance trains from West and South of India pass through this junction while travelling northwards. The... Continue Reading →
Kandhamal Haladi of Odisha (9/15/2020) - Kandhamal in the southern-central part of the state of Odisha is famous for its aromatic turmeric called as Kandhamal turmeric after the region where it is cultivated. Haladi as turmeric is known in Odia has been grown in this region for centuries by the tribals. About 60 – 70 percent of the area is hilly with... Continue Reading →
Gulbarga Tur Dal of Karnataka (9/16/2020) - Gulbarga or Kalaburagi as it is known now is often called the ‘red gram bowl’ of Karnataka. Coined as the ‘land of tur dal’, Gulbarga accounts for the highest red gram production in Karnataka and roughly about a tenth of India’s total production. The tur dal or pigeon pea grown here is of superior quality... Continue Reading →
Kutumsar Caves and Kailash Cave in Kanger Valley National Park, Bastar, Chhattisgarh (9/17/2020) - Scientific research has shown that of the fourteen years in exile, Lord Rama spent twelve of them in the state of Chhattisgarh. Historians have painstakingly identified the journey from Ayodhya to Rameshwaram and then to Sri Lanka during which Lord Rama received education from many saints, ascetics and performed penance and this has been supported... Continue Reading →
Sangameshwar Temple, Saswad, Maharashtra (9/18/2020) - The ancient Sangameshwar temple of Swayambhu Mahadev at the confluence of two rivers namely Karha and Chambali (Bhogwati) is situated in the historically significant city of Saswad in the state of Maharashtra. Saswad is known to be deeply entrenched in history, spirituality, religion, culture and architecture from time immemorial. It is believed that the... Continue Reading →
Kalanamak Rice of Uttar Pradesh (9/21/2020) - Kalanamak (‘Kala’ means black derived from the husk and the suffix ‘namak’ means salt) is one of the finest quality aromatic rice grown in India. This scented variety has been cultivated since 600 BC i.e., since and probably before the Buddhist era. It is also known as ‘Buddha rice’ as it is believed that Mahatma... Continue Reading →
Himachali Kala Zeera (9/22/2020) - Himachali Kala Zeera or black cumin is one of the most economically important medicinal plant and spice that grows largely in Himachal Pradesh. Generally known to be found as a wild plant in the forests and grassy slopes of the North-Western Himalayas, kala zeera thrives in the high mountainous regions of Kinnaur, Kullu, Chamba, Shimla,... Continue Reading →
Dharwad Pedha (9/23/2020) - There are many stories swirling around the origin of the legendary Dharwad pedha. One story suggests that the jahagirdars (zamindars) of Hebballi, a village near Dharwad brought Ayodhya Prasad Mishra from Varanasi back in 1895. The jahagirdar used to visit Uttar Pradesh frequently to buy horses and thus, along with Ayodhya Prasad, started the migration of the Thakurs to Dharwad.... Continue Reading →
Kakanmath Temple, Sihoniya, Modhera District, Madhya Pradesh (9/24/2020) - Generally, there are stories weaved into every temple about its heritage and history. Some are references in the Hindu scriptures, some are based on travellers descriptions, some are based on research on inscriptions and well, some others range from an emotional thermometer of jaw-dropping to shivers down your spine! The Kakanmath temple is tucked... Continue Reading →
Borra Caves, Ananthagiri Hills, Visakhapatnam District, Andhra Pradesh (9/25/2020) - The spectacular Borra Caves located in the lush green Ananthagiri Hills at an elevation of 2310 feet is considered to be one of the largest caves of the country. This natural wonder nested in breathtaking terrain holds great ecological, geological, religious, anthropological and archaeological significance. These caves were discovered by a British geologist, William... Continue Reading →
Mango Malihabadi Dusseheri of Uttar Pradesh (9/28/2020) - The famous Malihabad in the Lucknow district of Uttar Pradesh is synonymous with mangoes. Popularly known as the mango capital of India, it is home to over 700 varieties of mangoes which on an average fetch about 150 crore every season! There is an eternal bond between mangoes and Awadh. The mangoes were not... Continue Reading →
Naga Mircha (9/29/2020) - A truly exotic organic crop from the hilly state of Nagaland renders a fiery experience of massive proportion! Nagaland’s interesting folklore mentions Chüdi (Angami language, “King of Hotness”) and Chaibe (Zeliangrong language, “Leader/Chieftain”) – the regional titles conferred on the famed Naga mircha holding it in great esteem. The traditional Naga chilli is considered to be a variant of the... Continue Reading →
Waigaon Turmeric (9/30/2020) - India is the world’s leading producer and exporter of turmeric with a staggering average of 46,500 tons of turmeric exported each year valued at approximately Rs 4,689 million! Besides, the established varieties grown in different parts of the country, there are at least seventeen known variants that have an impressive curcumin content ranging from 2.8... Continue Reading →
Jata Shankar Temple, Pachmarhi, Madhya Pradesh (10/1/2020) - Pachmarhi, also known as Satpura ki Rani (Queen of Satpura ranges) is the only hill station in Madhya Pradesh situated at an elevation of 2500 feet. This colonial hill station was discovered by a General Forsyth who stumbled upon this beautiful place while heading back to the Bengal Lancers in 1857. Soon, Pachmarhi was developed into a... Continue Reading →
Praacheena Pandeshwar Temple and Karna Temple, Hastinapur (10/2/2020) - Hastinapur (City of elephants) in the state of Uttar Pradesh is one of the most significant places of history, culture, heritage, spirituality, knowledge and wisdom in the world. This ancient city was the capital of the Kuru kingdom of the Kauravas and it was here that the seeds were sown for the unimaginable carnage witnessed... Continue Reading →
Bhalia Wheat of Gujarat (10/5/2020) - Locals say that Bhalia wheat that is largely cultivated in Bhal region of Gujarat derives its name from the Sanskrit word bhalah meaning forehead suggestive of the flatness of this region like one’s forehead. As bizarre as that may sound, the land is indeed extremely flat with barely any change in landscape or any sort of... Continue Reading →
Devanahalli Pomello of Karnataka (10/6/2020) - Bablimas or chakota or chakotara is probably coming from this word called pampa limāsu or from pamplemousse (in French) which means big citrus. The origin however of the more commonly used term of pomelo is unknown. As such, pomelo is loosely associated with grapefruit and though the Devanahalli pomello shares a deep historic ancestry with the grapefruit, it succeeds in creating its own unique... Continue Reading →
Mahabaleshwar Strawberry of Maharashtra (10/7/2020) - Mahabaleshwar, an idyllic summer getaway for the Bombay province during the British Raj was formally introduced to the English strawberries in the 1920s. This delectable red fruit called the Australian strawberry grown by the British in their gardens was looked upon by locals with great curiosity who were clueless about their taste and just intrigued... Continue Reading →
Bavka Shiva Temple, Dahod, Gujarat (10/8/2020) - The ancient Shiva temple in the remote village of Bavka in Dahod district in Gujarat is popularly known as the ‘Khajuraho of Gujarat’. This absolutely stunning temple that stands on a small hill near Hirlav lake in ruins was probably one of the most spectacular temples built in the Solanki era (or the Chaulukya dynasty... Continue Reading →
Caves at Jambuvanti, Ranavav, Gujarat (10/9/2020) - The supremely sacrosanct Jambavant cave or Jambuvant ki gufa located in Ranavav in Porbandar district is one of the most historical places in Gujarat. This beautiful ancient cave which is on the Panchadwaraka path is the resting place of Chiranjeevi Jambavan who had the rare opportunity to not only witness the divine Kurma avatar of Lord... Continue Reading →
Bharthari Caves, Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh (10/10/2020) - The ancient city of Ujjain or Ujjayini as it was known is steeped in history, culture, art, music and literature. This heritage city is home to some of the greatest writers ever to have walked this earth. One of those literary geniuses is Raja Bharthari, an eminent scholar of religion and ethics. Raja Bharthari was... Continue Reading →
Kachai Lemon of Manipur (10/12/2020) - The exotic Kachai Champra or Kachai lemon commonly known as the ‘pride of Manipur’ is found only in the remote village of Kachai in the Ukhrul district in the North eastern state of Manipur. This village is the highest producer of lemon in Manipur and one may wonder, what makes this lemon so striking? ... Continue Reading →
Khasi Mandarin of Meghalaya (10/13/2020) - Commonly called ‘The King of Oranges’ and ‘pride of Meghalaya’, the renowned Khasi Mandarin of Meghalaya has bagged one of the coveted positions in the world’s first food atlas. The North eastern state of Meghalaya is considered to be one of the richest biodiversity hotspots of the world and known for its exotic flora and... Continue Reading →
Tripura Queen Pineapple (10/14/2020) - The beautiful hilly North eastern state of Tripura is said to derive its name from the Goddess of the State, Shree Tripurasundari. Though Tripura was famous in the late 1800s to early 1900s for its aromatic tea, it has now gained universal recognition for its wide range of exotic subtropical and tropical fruits and vegetables.... Continue Reading →
Krem Puri, Laitsohum Village, Mawsynram, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya (10/15/2020) - Meghalaya (Abode of the clouds), known for its abundant exotic flora and fauna is home to many complex cave systems underneath its hills. There are about an estimated 1,650 caves and cave locations in Meghalaya alone of which only about 1,000 have been either explored partially or wholly. Official records say that Meghalaya has about... Continue Reading →
Kutwar, Madhya Pradesh – The birthplace of Daanveer Karna (10/16/2020) - Daanveer Karna, undisputedly the most generous and large-hearted man who has ever walked this earth and whose unwavering loyalty and friendship to Duryodhana will be remembered for ages to come is believed to have been born in Kutwar in Madhya Pradesh. Kutwar also known as Kuntalpur in Morena district of Madhya Pradesh on the banks... Continue Reading →
Mawjymbuin Cave, Mawsynram, Meghalaya (10/17/2020) - The famous Mawjymbuin cave in Mawsynram village in the state of Meghalaya is nestled in the East Khasi Hills in the picturesque background of lush greenery, steep slopes and stunning waterfalls. This cave holds great geological importance and is a real adventure thrill for nature lovers, historians as well as spiritualists. The star attraction... Continue Reading →
Assam Karbi Anglong Ginger (10/19/2020) - The picturesque hilly district of Karbi Anglong is one of the leading ginger producing belts of Assam that is fast gaining importance in both the domestic and international markets for its superior quality organic ginger. More than 30 percent of Karbi Anglong district is a dense tropical forest cover on hills and plains. The district is... Continue Reading →
Sikkim Large Cardamom (10/20/2020) - Large cardamom or bada elaichi is an exotic ancient spice and medicinal herb prized for its complex aroma grown across the Eastern Himalayan region that includes Sikkim, the Darjeeling Hills in West Bengal and Arunachal Pradesh. The crop is believed to have first been cultivated by the indigenous Lepcha tribe who used to collect the large cardamom... Continue Reading →
Sikkim’s Dalle Khursani (10/21/2020) - Sikkim has built up a rather formidable reputation for its superior organic farming methods and perhaps, this is the reason why the quality of indigenous vegetables, spices and fruits are undisputedly the best. One of the most famous produce of Sikkim is Dalle Khursani. Dalle Khursani is a red hot cherry pepper grown widely in... Continue Reading →
Gupteshwar Mahadev Temple, Khandwa, Madhya Pradesh (10/22/2020) - The famous Gupteshwar Mahadev temple at Rustampur village on the Indore – Icchapur highway is deemed extremely sacrosanct and draws a large number of devotees every year. This divine temple is in Khandwa which is the legendary Khandava forest area previously known as Khar Dushan that holds immense religious, historical and spiritual significance. Historians... Continue Reading →
Gupteshwar Cave Temple, Koraput District, Odisha (10/23/2020) - It has been widely accepted by historians that Lord Rama along with Sita Mata and Lakshmana lived in the picturesque Dandakaranya during His exile, a part of which has been identified as the thick forest area of Koraput district in Odisha. According to legend, it was Lord Rama who stumbled upon this ancient swayambhu (self-manifested)... Continue Reading →
Bangalore Rose Onion of Karnataka (10/26/2020) - Bangalore rose onion or gulabi eerulli as it known locally is a unique variety of onion that is found only in and around Bangalore in the state of Karnataka. This particular rose onion is exclusively grown for the export market in one of the 16 taluks or districts of Bengaluru urban, Bengaluru rural, Kolar and Chikkaballapur in about 5,000... Continue Reading →
Memang Narang of Meghalaya (10/27/2020) - Meghalaya, famous for its rich and diverse flora and fauna is home to one of the rarest wild Indian orange species called Memang narang that is found only in Garo Hills. This wild orange was discovered by accident in the Nokrek National Park in the West Garo Hills which led to the park being recognized... Continue Reading →
Kolhapur Jaggery of Maharashtra (10/28/2020) - Since the 18th century, Maharashtra has been well-known for its extensive jaggery production business, so much so that Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj came up with the ingenious idea to establish the first market yard of jaggery to fulfil all its requirements and services. Kolhapur district located in the western part of Maharashtra has been widely accepted... Continue Reading →
Bhimkund, Bajna Village, Chhatarpur District, Madhya Pradesh (10/29/2020) - The ancient Bhimkund located near Bajna village in Chhatarpur district in Madhya Pradesh has flummoxed geologists, marine biologists and pretty much anyone with scientific leanings but has captured the hearts of the devout. Also popularly known as Narad Kund or Neel Kund, this unique body of water with its astonishingly vibrant blue hue is believed... Continue Reading →
Patal Bhuvaneshwar Cave, Pithoragarh District, Uttarakhand (10/30/2020) - “This awesome cave is believed to be as old as earth itself.” – is the first line of the inscription outside the temple summing up the history of the mysterious Patal Bhuvaneshwar Cave situated in the village of Bhuvaneshwar in Pithoragarh district in Dev Bhoomi Uttarakhand. The second line of the inscription runs thus, “It... Continue Reading →
Narmada Parikrama: Siddhanath Temple, Nemawar, Madhya Pradesh (10/31/2020) - The historical city of Nemawar in the state of Madhya Pradesh situated on the banks of the holy river of Narmada is a treasure trove of heritage, art, culture and spirituality. Nemawar or Naabhipura as it used to be known was a famous commercial centre during the Mahabharat era. The kings who ruled over this... Continue Reading →
Bhagalpuri Zardalu of Bihar (11/2/2020) - Though Zardalu might not find mention among the top varieties of mangoes in India that include Dusseheri, Langra and Alphonso, this mid-season fragrant mango is now much sought-after outside the districts of Banka and Munger in Bihar and slowly getting the recognition it duly deserves. Zardalu or Jardalu as it is also known as,... Continue Reading →
Bangalore Blue Grapes of Karnataka (11/3/2020) - Grape cultivation in the state of Karnataka can be traced back to the 18th century when the erstwhile Nizam of Hyderabad brought this exotic fruit to the regions of Belgaum, Bidar, Bagalkot, Bijapur and Gulbarga. Over time, various varieties typical to that region’s climatic conditions and soil health were grown by farmers leading to a... Continue Reading →
Tezpur Litchi of Assam (11/4/2020) - The North Eastern state of Assam unknown to many is a rich biodiversity zone with thriving flora and fauna. Assam is known for its tropical rainforests, bamboo orchards, national parks as well as varied indigenous agricultural and fruit crops. One of the most famous organic produce of Assam is Tezpur litchi. Tezpur litchi is... Continue Reading →
Banasura Ka Kila, Lohaghat, Uttarakhand (11/5/2020) - A British naturalist once commented, “Why go to Kashmir when heaven is here”, describing the charming town of Lohaghat in Champawat district in the state of Uttarakhand. The town derives its names from the river Lohawati that flows nearby. This place is a visual paradise for those interested in natural history in summer when the... Continue Reading →
Petroglyphs of Ladakh (11/6/2020) - The Union Territory of Ladakh is one of the most elevated regions in the Himalayas that has been inhabited by humans since the Stone Age. The region of the upper Indus River has been of great importance for Central Asia and India since the ancient times. The influence of Buddhism, indigenous hunting tribes, Tibetan kingdoms... Continue Reading →
Sharaneshwar Shiva Temple, Abhapur, Polo Forest, Gujarat (11/7/2020) - The beautiful Polo Forest also known as Vijayanagar Forest located at the foothills of the Aravalli range bordering Gujarat and Rajasthan on the banks of the Harnav River was a place of great importance for the ancient kingdom of Vijayanagar. This densely wooded region derives its name from the word Pol meaning gateway in the... Continue Reading →
Purandar Fig of Maharashtra (11/9/2020) - The journey of the famed Purandar fig began in the late 1300s when Muhammad bin Tughlaq shifted the seat of power from Delhi to Daulatabad. A few people he used to keep company with who were well acquainted with the cultivation of fruits typical to Central Asia started growing these in the dry area of... Continue Reading →
Lasalgaon Onion of Maharashtra (11/10/2020) - Lasalgaon, situated in Niphad taluk of Nashik district is the biggest market for onions not only in India but in Asia! Maharashtra is the biggest producer of onions in the country and unknown to many, the famed Lasalgaon onion also known as Niphad red or Nashik red influences the rate of onion in the Asian... Continue Reading →
Arunachal Orange (11/11/2020) - Arunachal mandarin orange more commonly known as Wakro orange (deriving its name from the place where it is grown extensively in Arunachal Pradesh) is the oldest cultivated fruit crop in the state. Citrus is by far the largest grown horticultural crop in Arunachal Pradesh and Arunachal orange accounts for almost 90 percent of the total... Continue Reading →
Kot Bhramari Devi Temple (Kot Ka Mandir), Bageshwar District, Uttarakhand (11/12/2020) - When and who built this ancient Kot Bhramari Devi temple remains a mystery till date. Famous poets, litterateurs and writers have extolled the divine radiance and presence of Bhramari Devi in Bageshwar many a time. Jaishankar Prasad in his renowned drama ‘Dhruv Swamini’ has spoken of the great Chandragupta Maurya’s stay in this region with... Continue Reading →
Kapileshwar Mahadev Cave Temple, Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand (11/13/2020) - An unexplored and lesser-known gem in Dev Bhoomi Uttarakhand is the Kapileshwar Mahadev cave temple situated on a steep hill above Ancholi village about 3 kms from Pithoragarh. This ancient temple is tucked away from all the hustle and bustle of pilgrims travelling to Kailash Manosarovar and offers a panoramic view of the famous Saur... Continue Reading →
Solapur Pomegranate of Maharashtra (11/16/2020) - Pomegranate or anar or dalimb as it is known in the local language is said to have its origin in Baluchistan in Iran and the Himalayas. The cultivation of pomegranate began in the late 1960s in Solapur district. Locals say that in 1972, Solapur faced extreme drought and emphasis was laid on increasing the cultivation... Continue Reading →
Kumaon Chyura Oil of Uttarakhand (11/17/2020) - Chyura or Indian Butter Tree (Diploknema Butyracea), largely found at an altitude of 1600 m is one of the most economically important but lesser known and underutilized multipurpose tree of the Himalayas. This Kalpabriksha or Kalpavriksha as it is known in Uttarakhand has an ancient association of spiritual and cultural importance with the indigenous communities of... Continue Reading →
Balaghat Chinnor, Madhya Pradesh (11/18/2020) - Balaghat, commonly called as the rice bowl of Madhya Pradesh produces one of the finest indigenous varieties of rice in the country. The Chinnor rice is a native of Balaghat district and finds mention in several literature and historical texts. According to the farmers, Chinnor is derived from chiknaiyukt nokdaar sugangdhit chavur where chi comes from chiknaiyukt, no from nokdaar and... Continue Reading →
Gauri Udiyar, Bageshwar, Uttarakhand (11/19/2020) - The holy town of Bageshwar situated at the confluence of Sarayu, Gomti and Bhagirathi rivers is revered by all and deemed as the land of Lord Sadashiva. This sacrosanct place is said to liberate one from the bondage of birth and death and is venerated in the Puranas. Bageshwar is nestled amidst the Bhileshwar and... Continue Reading →
Timmersain Mahadev, Neeti Village, Chamoli District, Uttarakhand (11/20/2020) - Neeti of Joshimath block in Chamoli district of Dev Bhoomi Uttarakhand is the last village along the Indo-China border. This remotely quaint village is home to Barfani Baba, popularly known as chota Amarnath. The villages in Neeti valley are accessible for only six to eight months due to adverse weather conditions. Many rare medicinal... Continue Reading →
Kapileshwar Mahadev Temple, Almora, Uttarakhand (11/21/2020) - Almora in Dev Bhoomi Uttarakhand is renowned for its ancient heritage (primordial human settlements and early Aryan people), culture, history (mentioned in the Puranas and Mahabharat), art and food. There are many temples built here by the Chand dynasty who catapulted Almora into a formidable seat of power in the 1500s. The beautiful Kapileshwar... Continue Reading →
Munsyari Rajma of Uttarakhand (11/23/2020) - The famed Munsyari rajma derives its name from Munsyari, situated at the entrance of Johar valley (used to be an important trade route with Tibet in ancient times) in Uttarakhand at an altitude of 7,200 feet. Munsyari rajma or rajmash as it is popularly known is a valuable cash crop grown in North Western Himalayan... Continue Reading →
Naga Cucumber (11/24/2020) - Cucumber is said to have been cultivated by many indigenous communities in India for more than 3,000 years. Cucumber has been grown by tribals in Nagaland for centuries. It is one of the most important crops of the North Eastern states and Nagaland ranks fifth in area under cultivation and third in production. The... Continue Reading →
Rataul Mango of Uttar Pradesh (11/25/2020) - The Rataul mango was discovered by the renowned mango aficionado, Sheikh Mohammed Afaq Faridi (grandson of the late Abdur Razzak who cultivated the first mangoes in Rataul in the late 1800s) while taking a stroll in a farm. Sheikh Mohammed Afaq Faridi was so passionate about mangoes that he could tell the variety just by... Continue Reading →
Siddheshwar Nath Temple, Kardo Forest, Ziro, Arunachal Pradesh (11/26/2020) - In 2004, a young woodcutter was felling a tree in the dense Kardo jungle in the holy month of Shravan. Much to his amazement though, the tree did not fall down in the spot where it should have but instead changed direction and fell down a few kilometres away. The woodcutter was puzzled by this... Continue Reading →
Malinithan, Likabali, Arunachal Pradesh (11/27/2020) - The ancient town of Malinithan situated at the foothills of the Siang Hills in Likabali is steeped in religion, history, culture and architecture. Legend has it that when Lord Krishna kidnapped Rukmini Devi, they passed this beautiful location on their way to Dwaraka from Vidarbha. They found Lord Shiva and Parvathi Devi deep in tapas in... Continue Reading →
Parashuram Kund, Lohit District, Arunachal Pradesh (11/28/2020) - Parshuram kund located in Lohit district on the banks of the lower level of Lohit River (a tributary of the Brahmaputra River) is one of the most sacrosanct places not only in Arunachal Pradesh but also in India. This holy place finds mention in Srimad Bhagavata Mahapurana and is dedicated to Parashurama, the sixth avatar... Continue Reading →
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