While people visit Goa during the summmer to enjoy the beaches, the sunshine state is totally different during the monsoon season. Monsoon brings Goa’s waterfalls to life—thundering, foaming, and wrapped in green. They offer the perfect setting for nature lovers and shutterbugs, but now without caution. While there are many reasons to visit the state, here are six waterfalls to check out if you are going there during the monsoon: Dudhsagar Falls, Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife SanctuaryLiterally meaning "Sea of Milk", Dudhsagar is one of India’s tallest waterfall. During the monsoon, it gushes with such power that it’s both awe-inspiring and humbling. People can access it via jeep safari from Collem through the dense Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary. A trek to the base is also possible for seasoned hikers. Tambdi Surla Waterfall, near MollemLocated a short trek away from the ancient Tambdi Surla Mahadev Temple (12th century), this lesser-known waterfall is ideal for a forest escape. Surrounded by thick forest and thriving flora, it offers a blend of history, heritage, and raw beauty—perfect for a monsoon day trip. Harvalem Falls, SanquelimThis relatively accessible waterfall near Bicholim is known for its wide horseshoe cascade and scenic surroundings. Nearby attractions include the Rudreshwar Temple and Arvalem Caves, making it an ideal stop on a monsoon heritage trail. Kuskem Waterfall, CanaconaHidden in the heart of Canacona’s Kuskem village, this waterfall is a pristine gem best explored between August and September. Located approximately 20 km from Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary, the journey to Kuskem Waterfall includes a trek through lush forests. Netravali Waterfall, near MargaoTucked within the Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary, about 50 km from Margao, this monsoon marvel cascades into a natural pool after a forest trek. Known for its curtain-like flow, Netravali Waterfall is ideal for birdwatching, photography, and peaceful nature walks. The sanctuary’s rich biodiversity turns every visit into a holistic eco-tourism experience. Kesarval Waterfalls, VernaJust 22 km from Panaji, Kesarval Waterfalls, near Verna plateau, is famed not only for its picturesque descent but also for its mineral-rich, healing waters. The area’s cultural heritage is enhanced by proximity to Mormugao Fort and Santana Church, making it a perfect monsoon day excursion.
23 May,2025 07:01 PM IST | Goa | mid-day online correspondentKannur native and a resident of Qatar, Safrina Latheef was a banker and a baker before she turned to mountaineering, a long term desire of hers, and became the first woman from Kerala to scale the over 8,000 feet Everest peak.Latheef describes herself as a "jack of all trades" as she did a bit of banking and baking before moving on to mountaineering. Describing the momentous feat as one of the "toughest" things she has done in her life till now, Latheef said that not just physical fitness, but mental strength was also very important to make the climb. She reached the Everest base camp on April 19, began the climb on April 28, started the final push for the summit on May 12 and reached the top on May 18. "It is a mental struggle, as we see a lot of unexpected things like avalanches, rock falls and dead bodies of climbers who tried to scale the summit with the same aspirations and dreams as us. "The dead bodies shake you up. You could be the next body on the line -- that thought crosses your mind. You have to fight all that to reach the summit," she said in a voice note shared with PTI from Nepal. However, reaching the peak is worth all that gruelling effort because of the view from there, said Safrina Latheef, who is in her late 30s. "You are on top of the world, the clouds. There is nothing above you that is the feeling you get. It is difficult to describe it. You have to experience it," she said. But, her decision to take off her goggles to experience the view with her naked eyes proved a bit costly as she got blinded by the snow and had to make the descent with poor vision and was subsequently, briefly hospitalised for it, she said. Earlier in the day, speaking to a news channel from Nepal, Latheef said that she did not realise the heights she was climbing while scaling the summit, but on the way down "I came to realise the enormity of it". "I am excited with the experience and happy that I got back alive," she added. Giving details of the effort she put in to achieve the feat, she said that it was during the COVID-19 pandemic that she and her husband realised the importance of health and physical fitness. "We became health conscious, joined a gym and began running. It was a long-term desire of mine to do adventure trekking. So, after we became healthier, when we had time, we climbed Mt Kilimanjaro (5,895 meters) in Tanzania with some friends," she said in the voice note. Since then, her only thought was to climb the highest peak on Earth -- Mount Everest which stands at 8,849 meters. "For that, we have been training for the last four years. We found a trainer and asked him to train us specifically to climb Everet. We planned to scale Everest last year, but, unfortunately, my husband suffered a training injury. "This year again he suffered a training injury, but I said I cannot wait any longer and decided to climb it alone. However, my wish was to climb it together with my husband," she stated in the voice note. As part of the training to climb Everest, the couple climbed Mt Aconcagua in Argentina which is close to 7,000 meters, but it was a rocky mountain. "In order to understand how it was to climb a snow mountain like Everest, we climbed Mt Elbrus (5,642 meters) in Russia. We also went to the Everest base camp in Nepal to understand the trekking culture," she said. She said she was lucky to have a life partner like her husband -- Dr Shameel Musthafa -- who is a surgeon at Hamad Medical Corporation in Doha, Qatar, as they both think alike and have the same priorities. Latheef said that he was supportive of her decision to make the climb without him and she went for it. On what was important to survive the arduous climb to the summit of Everest, she said it was physical and mental fitness and appropriate clothing. "Proper clothing is important to combat the weather conditions at that altitude. Physical fitness is also very important in order to make the gruelling climb to the top. But most important is mental fitness as without it, one might give up halfway," she said. Latheef said that each day of her trek, she questioned why she was spending so much money to torture herself physically like this. "It is very hard to keep our aim in mind because of the amount of physical torture. So, we have to be mentally strong if we have to reach the top," she said. Now that she has returned alive from Everest, she has no immediate plans to climb any other high peaks. "But, I want to complete the seven summits sometime," she said, referring to the highest mountains on each of the seven traditional continents. Latheef, who has been residing in Qatar for the last 25 years, said, "We need to find our own happiness and we cannot depend on others for that". This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
23 May,2025 05:15 PM IST | Thiruvananthapuram | PTIGoa Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte has said the coastal state is facing competition from Sri Lanka, Vietnam and Indonesia, and steps will be taken to ensure that the footfall of tourists is unaffected during monsoon. He said monsoon festivals and trekking activities can be a big draw for tourists during what is traditionally not a peak season. Khaunte chaired a meeting with the Travel and Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG), hoteliers and airlines earlier this week to discuss the promotion of monsoon tourism. He said Goa faced competition from the tourism markets of Vietnam, Indonesia and Sri Lanka, and the industry has witnessed disruption following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack. "Although Goa did well in the first quarter of the year, with 10 per cent growth compared to the same period last year, April witnessed a low," the minister said. He said the impact of the Pahalgam attack could be seen in the tourism industry in May, as several tourists cancelled their travel plans. The whole focus is right now on the monsoon tourism and how the industry can come together collaboratively and competitively, offer packages and promote "Goa beyond beaches" in the right sense, Khaunte said. He said the state has been celebrating monsoon festivals such as Sao Joao, Chikhal Kalo and Bondera and even organising treks, which can be a major attraction for tourists. "When we speak about competition from Sri Lanka, Vietnam and Indonesia, we are speaking about the pricing and also how we can make tourists spend more days in Goa," he said. Khaunte said the state needs to promote itself in a big way in UAE and the Middle East. "The hotel industry and the airlines have assured that they will put together ideas and curate the packages for tourists during monsoon season," he said. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
23 May,2025 04:00 PM IST | Goa | PTIAs the temperature soars across India, many are looking to visit places in the country and around the world that are cool. If you are planning to visit Australia, then there is a lot to do in Canberra. Here is a handpicked list of unmissable spots and experiences curated for all age groups. For the curious and adventure seekers1. Hot air ballooning: Watch the sun rise over Lake Burley Griffin and Canberra’s skyline as you soar gently in a hot air balloon — a bucket list moment the whole family will remember. There is no better way to fully appreciate the city’s charm than from above. 2. Questacon: The National Science and Technology Centre, is a wonderland packed with over 200 interactive exhibits and captivating science shows that make learning fun for all ages. It’s a hands-on space where curiosity comes to life. In a nutshell, this spot creates fun interactive learning experiences that stimulate engagement in science and technology.3. Canberra glassworks: Families that get creative together; stay together! Uncover the inner workings of the Canberra Glassworks with a hands-on class where you can create your own glass masterpiece! Choose to blow your own glass small vase or bird, this creative experience will leave you with a cool souvenir to take home.4. Treetops adventure: If your family is craving some outdoor adventure, head to Majura Pines only a 20-minute drive from the city centre where you’ll find Treetops Adventure. Offering over 90 aerial obstacles and 16 ziplines suspended up to 15 metres above the ground. Suitable for all ages, it promises fun for the whole family. For toddlers1. National Arboretum Canberra: Let the kids explore the magical POD Playground with giant acorn cubbies, climbing nets, tube slides and making music in the banksia cubbies. Meanwhile, parents can enjoy the Arboretum’s breathtaking views over Canberra with coffee in hand. 2. Cockington Green Gardens: Venture into the delightful and fascinating display of meticulously crafted miniature buildings at Cockington Green, located in Canberra’s Gold Creek Village. Get captivated as you enter the enchanting world of tiny people and tiny structures – this place is a favourite for all ages. For the wild at heart 1. National Zoo & Aquarium: A hit with Indian families, the National Zoo & Aquarium is where you will encounter animals of all sizes, from red pandas to rhinos, along the 2.6kms of walking trails. Follow the numbered Adventure Trail map, which guides you through the zoo and includes a picnic and barbecue area for visitors.Children will love Adventureland, where they can interact with life-size sculptures of safari animals and Australian wildlife.2. National Dinosaur Museum: Home to one of Australia’s largest dino displays, this museum brings prehistory to life with fossils, skeletons, and roaring animatronic dinosaurs that move, roar, blink and breathe. Also, the Big Dinosaur - a 20-metre-long T Rex awaits your presence in this Australian city.3. Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve: Australia has been known as the kangaroo land, but you can also spot koalas, wallabies, emus – all in their natural habitat at the Reserve. Stroll the 700m Koala Path through the Eucalyptus Forest or take a refreshing walk along the Sanctuary Loop through the Wetlands. The Reserve also features a Nature Discovery Playground, scenic picnic areas, and breathtaking views to keep kids engaged and active. For the nature lovers 1. Australian National Botanic Gardens - Set in a stunning bushland backdrop, this unique destination showcases an unparalleled diversity of Australian native plants, the only place in the world where you can experience such a rich collection in one location. 2. Bridge to Bridge Loop: Discover one of Canberra’s must-do experiences, the iconic 5km Bridge to Bridge loop around Lake Burley Griffin. This easy, scenic trail offers stunning views of landmarks like the National Library, National Museum, and the Captain Cook Memorial Jet. Start from Wendouree Drive and enjoy a leisurely walk, cycle, or run. With picnic spots at Commonwealth Park and year-round access, it’s a great way to soak in the city’s beauty.3. Corin Forest: Just a 45-minute drive from Canberra’s city centre in the Tidbinbilla Mountain Ranges, Corin Forest, nestled in a secluded mountain valley, is a perfect winter getaway for families. Its dedicated Snowplay area lets visitors enjoy the season by building snowmen, tobogganing, and having snowball fights. Visitors can also try beginner skiing, snowboarding, or take a ride on the Alpine slide, making it an ideal spot to embrace the magic of winter.
22 May,2025 07:34 PM IST | Canberra | mid-day online correspondentIndia is a country of tea lovers. From a quick sip before work to dedicated tea time in the evening, this beverage is an important part of daily life. Be it ‘chai breaks’ or ‘conversations over chai’, for Indians, tea is as an emotion, rather than just a beverage. Every year, International Tea Day is observed annually on May 21, to celebrate the beverage and its culture. While classics like ginger tea and masala chai are widely recognised and loved, India is home to a wide variety of regional teas, which are important to local culture and find a place among must-explore culinary experiences for tourists. These are either grown or consumed in different regions of the country. Here are some tea varieties you should know about. Kashmiri Kahwa, Jammu and Kashmir Kashmiri Kahwa is not only an integral part of the lives of locals in the Kashmir valley, but also a popular attraction for tourists. It is an aromatic green tea that features a blend of saffron, spices like cardamom, cinnamon and cloves, and nuts like almonds. Sometimes, rose petals are added for flavour. Noon Chai, Jammu and Kashmir Also referred to as Sheer chai, or Kashmiri pink tea, this traditional beverage made of green tea leaves, milk, baking soda and salt is a staple in Kashmiri culture. It is usually served with Kashmiri bread, and is especially consumed during winter months for warmth. Butter Tea, Ladakh and Sikkim A popular beverage in Tibet, butter tea is also consumed in some parts of India like Ladakh and Sikkim. Also called ‘Gur-Gur Cha’ in Ladakh, this tea is made of tea leaves, water, yak milk butter and salt. Kangra Tea, Himachal Pradesh This tea is grown in Himachal Pradesh’s Kangra district, which is also known as the ‘Tea Capital of North India’. It is available in both black and green variants, and is known for its unique aroma and flavour that has sweet undertones. Assam Tea, Assam Assam tea generally refers to the black tea grown in Assam, the largest tea-growing area in the world. Its smooth malty flavour and distinct colour has earned acclaim even beyond India. Lebu Cha, Kolkata Lebu Cha, which translates to lemon tea, is commonly consumed in Kolkata and other parts of West Bengal. It is a black tea infused with lemon, and flavoured with a blend of spices. Darjeeling Tea, West Bengal This is a popular variety of black tea in India, grown in the Darjeeling region of West Bengal. It is characterised by delicate floral or fruity aroma and distinct sweet flavour. Irani Chai, Hyderabad Irani chai, also called Hyderabadi dum chai, is popular in Hyderabad and also at Irani cafes in Mumbai. It is known for its creamy texture and flavour, and holds immense cultural significance. Nilgiri Tea, South India This tea is grown in the Nilgiri Hills in South India, spanning Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Kerala. Nilgiri tea is known for its lively fragrance and well-rounded flavour featuring fruity notes. Sulaimani Chai, Kerala The Sulaimani Chai is popular in Kerala, especially the Malabar region. It is a black tea infused with spices like cardamom and cinnamon. Ginger or mint leaves are sometimes added for flavour. It is prepared without milk.
21 May,2025 09:39 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAt a time when many Indians are embarking on solo trips along with others that include their family and friends, there are interesting travel trends that are emerging every other day. A new survey has revealed the top destinations in Asia to embrace the art of 'slow travel', with Thailand’s coastal city Rayong emerging as the top choice for travelers looking to hit the brakes and linger longer. While some travelers thrive on jam-packed itineraries that squeeze in as much as possible in a short time, others find joy in longer stays enabling them to soak up the local charm. Slow travel provides the ideal opportunity to fully immerse in a destination, allowing time to create meaningful connections with its culture, cuisine, and people. Across nine countries in Asia, the data in the survey conducted by digital travel platform Agoda, shows that slow travelers are booking the longest stays not only in Rayong but also Kalegowa (Indonesia), Seoul (South Korea), Tokyo (Japan), Nha Trang (Vietnam), Boracay Island (Philippines), Taipei (Taiwan), Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia), and Chennai (India). In India, Chennai, Mumbai, and Bengaluru have emerged as the top destinations for extended stays. Meanwhile, travelers from India looking to venture abroad spend the most time in Seoul for a slower-paced travel experience. From tranquil beaches to bustling city streets, these destinations prove that sometimes, the best way to travel is to take it slow. 1. Rayong, Thailand This coastal paradise is a haven for those seeking peace and quiet, with its pristine beaches offering a perfect escape from the crowds. Visitors can indulge in fresh seafood straight from the fishing boats, explore islands like Koh Samet, or simply relax under the shade of palm trees. Rayong’s unhurried pace and natural beauty make it an ideal destination for travelers looking to recharge and reconnect with nature. 2. Kalegowa, Indonesia Kalegowa is a hidden gem that invites travelers to slow down and embrace its lush landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The area is known for its verdant rice fields, traditional Bugis architecture, and warm hospitality. Visitors can take their time exploring local markets, savoring authentic Indonesian cuisine, or taking a leisurely trek through scenic trails. Kalegowa’s charm lies in its simplicity, making it a perfect spot for those seeking a slower, more meaningful travel experience. 3. Seoul, South KoreaSeoul may be a bustling metropolis, but it’s also a city where slow travel thrives. From wandering through the historic streets of Bukchon Hanok Village and taking a break in a traditional tea house to exploring hidden alleyways and savoring Korean barbeque, Seoul offers countless ways to take it easy and explore at a relaxed pace. 4. Tokyo, JapanWith its endless blend of history, innovation, and culture, it’s no surprise that travelers can spend countless days in Tokyo and still have so much left to see and do. Whether it’s the fast-paced energy of Shibuya, the quiet charm of Yanaka neighborhood, or the myriad food options, Tokyo’s multifaceted appeal ensures there’s always something new to uncover, making it a perfect destination for those who want to explore at their own pace. 5. Nha Trang, Vietnam With its stunning coastline and relaxed atmosphere, Nha Trang is a haven for beach lovers who want to take their time soaking up the sun and sea. Beyond its beaches, Nha Trang offers a wealth of experiences, from exploring the ancient Po Nagar Cham Towers to indulging in rejuvenating mud baths. Nha Trang’s laid-back vibe makes it an ideal spot for slow travel. 6. Boracay Island, Philippines Boracay’s white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters are perfect for those who want to kick back, relax, and let the island’s beauty wash over them. Beyond its famous beaches, Boracay offers opportunities for slow travelers to explore its colorful marine life through snorkeling and diving or by taking a sunset sail on a traditional paraw boat. The island’s welcoming atmosphere and stunning scenery make it a destination where travelers can easily lose track of time. 7. Taipei, Taiwan Taipei offers a mix of modernity and tradition, with night markets, hot springs, and scenic hikes that encourage visitors to linger and explore. Slow travelers can wander through the historic streets of Dadaocheng, savor local delicacies like xiao long bao, or take a day trip to the serene Yangmingshan National Park. Taipei’s friendly locals and rich cultural experiences make it a city worth savoring, one moment at a time. 8. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Slow travelers can take their time exploring Kuala Lumpur’s neighborhoods, from the colorful streets of Little India to the bustling markets of Chinatown. The city’s architectural wonders, such as the Petronas Twin Towers and Sultan Abdul Samad Building, offer plenty of photo-worthy moments. Food enthusiasts can enjoy leisurely meals at hawker stalls or upscale restaurants, sampling everything from nasi lemak to char kway teow. Kuala Lumpur’s blend of tradition and modernity makes it a fascinating destination for those who want to stay a while. 9. Chennai, IndiaChennai’s rich heritage, vibrant arts scene, and coastal charm make it a destination where travelers can slow down and immerse themselves in South Indian culture. Visitors can explore the city’s historic temples, enjoy a peaceful walk along Marina Beach, or attend classical Carnatic music performances. Chennai’s warm hospitality and cultural richness make it a city that rewards those who take the time to explore. Gaurav Malik, country director, India, Sri Lanka, and Nepal at Agoda, said, “In today's fast-paced world, the concept of slow travel encourages travelers to genuinely engage with the destinations they explore. In India, travelers are increasingly seeking deeper, more meaningful experiences by embracing this trend. Destinations like Chennai, Mumbai, and Bengaluru allow visitors to immerse themselves in vibrant cultures, rich histories, and diverse cuisines at their own pace.”
21 May,2025 07:55 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Odisha government has decided to develop adventure tourism destinations to attract travellers, especially youth from across the country and visitors from abroad. The Odisha Adventure Tourism Guidelines-2025 was finalised in a meeting held here under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Tuesday evening. Majhi said that tourism projects will be developed in Odisha under the vision of 'Think India, Think Odisha'. "The adventure tourism sector will be made so attractive that when tourists think of coming to India, the first thing that would come to their mind is Odisha," he asserted. "Aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of Viksit Bharat-2047, plans are being made for the development of various sectors in Odisha, including tourism," the CM said. The main objective of Odisha Adventure Tourism Guidelines is to develop various adventure tourism destinations. All potential adventure tourism spots in 30 districts of the state will be mapped and developed. Besides, a rafting facility at Satkosia and hot air balloon tourism at Hirakud reservoir will be developed, officials said. As per the guidelines, local youth will be trained and certified for various adventure tourism activities, creating employment opportunities for them. For this, the government will promote partnership with the private sector through the 'Go Adventure' portal, they said. The government will also offer attractive incentives to private companies for investment in the tourism sector under the Odisha Tourism Policy-2022, they added. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
21 May,2025 03:48 PM IST | Odisha | PTIIn the wake of recent geopolitical developments that shifted Indian traveller sentiment dramatically, there has been a sharp 42 per cent decline in visa applications to Turkey and Azerbaijan, a report said on Tuesday. As both countries publicly expressed support for Pakistan, Indian travellers responded swiftly. Within just 36 hours, the number of users exiting the visa application process midway surged by 60 per cent, according to data provided by Atlys, a visa processing platform. “The reaction wasn’t scattered; it was sharp and behavioural. People didn’t need to be told to avoid certain destinations. They simply moved on, guided by instinct, information, and access to alternatives. That’s what modern travel looks like,” said Mohak Nahta, Founder and CEO of Atlys. In the same spirit, “we also paused all marketing efforts for Turkey and Azerbaijan, standing by India and in solidarity with national sentiment,” he added. Travellers from metro cities like Delhi and Mumbai showed a 53 per cent drop in Turkey-bound applications, while interest from tier 2 cities such as Indore and Jaipur remained more resilient, falling by only 20 per cent. There was also a shift in the kind of travellers rethinking their plans. Group visa requests, including family trips, fell by nearly 49 per cent, while solo and couple applications declined more gradually at 27 per cent. This suggests that larger group travellers, often planning further in advance and more sensitive to political sentiment, reacted more decisively than individual travellers. Atlys data also revealed early signals around age and intent. Travellers aged 25 to 34 were the most likely to change course quickly, accounting for over 70 per cent of mid-process application drop-offs for Turkey. Interestingly, women travellers were more likely to switch destinations entirely, with a 2.3 times higher tendency to reinitiate applications for Southeast Asian countries such as Vietnam, or Thailand. As Turkey and Azerbaijan lost favour, alternate destinations surged in popularity. In the subsequent days, applications to Vietnam, Indonesia, and Egypt rose by up to 31 per cent, the data showed. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
20 May,2025 04:49 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSIndia is one of the most well-known destinations in the world for spiritual tourism. With an increased impetus on developing temple corridors and other spiritual destinations in the country in recent times, there has been a surge in tourists in the country seeking such experiences. The ongoing Mahakumbh 2025 is a major spiritual gathering, attracting tourists and devotees from around the world. There has been a rise in inbound travel for spiritual purposes in India, primarily driven by Mahakumbh 2025 and similar experiences, a report by visa processing platform Atlys showed on Wednesday. According to the report, there has been a 21.4 per cent increase in inbound travel to the country for spiritual purposes. The surge in applications is largely driven by travellers from the UK and the US, underscoring the global interest in India's spiritual offerings. The data revealed that nearly 48 per cent of all spiritual travel visa applications are linked to major events and pilgrimages like the Mahakumbh. The sacred trinity of Varanasi, Rishikesh and Haridwar continues to dominate destination preferences. While spiritual travel was once predominantly associated with older generations, millennials now lead the trend, with 66 per cent of this segment being women - indicating a broader move toward female-led spiritual exploration, said the report. Over the past decade, global interest in spiritual tourism has steadily risen, positioning India at the forefront with its rich spiritual heritage and diverse cultural tapestry. "India's spiritual legacy has always captured global attention, but we're now seeing an embrace of these sacred journeys by travellers seeking both adventure and self-discovery," said Mohak Nahta, Founder and CEO of Atlys. The Mahakumbh and similar festivals are no longer just for traditional pilgrims; they're appealing to a broader audience looking for meaningful experiences. Mahakumbh 2025, one of the world’s largest spiritual gatherings, is currently underway in Prayagraj and is set to attract more than 40 crore million pilgrims. The state government has taken various steps to promote global tourism at the grand event. (With inputs from IANS) Also Read: Tourist helpline to social media buzz, know all about the measures to promote global tourism at Mahakumbh 2025
20 May,2025 03:38 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentWhen Indian travellers Sujal Patwardhan and Medha Joseph embarked on a self-drive trip from India to Morocco in 2015 with a group of friends, little did they know that this journey would lead to a transformative experience, prompting them to pursue this professionally. During this expedition, the duo drove 23,000 km, traversing 17 countries over 57 days. While it was a turning point in their lives, the journey wasn’t without challenges. However, their love for travelling and driving was too deep to be deterred by that; the spark plug for this journey was lit quite a few years before that. Sujal, who took her first self-drive trip in the US in a Mini Cooper in 2011, expresses, “My love for driving started early—I’ve always been drawn to the thrill of the open road. Over the years, I took countless road trips, pushing boundaries and discovering new landscapes globally. But what stood out to me was how self-drive travel wasn’t as mainstream in India, especially for women, and then we both went on our life-changing expedition from India to Morocco, and the rest is just a series of self-drive expeditions,” On the other hand, Medha’s journey started almost two decades earlier. Her first road trip was from Pune to Bengaluru in an Ambassador in 1990 and first solo drive from Hyderabad to Pune in a Maruti Alto in 2008. She embraced driving on most of her travel expeditions. “Not just India, but every time I got an opportunity to travel overseas, I would make sure that I would drive some part of it even when it was not commonplace for international visitors from India. This gave me such a taste of freedom that there was no turning back,” she shares. Their shared love for the open road led them to join hands and organise self-drive expeditions for other travel enthusiasts, especially women. The duo, founders of the travel platform Embarq, led an all-women self-drive expedition from Kashmir to Kanyakumari in March this year to mark Women’s Day, as part of their ‘The Bold Route’ series. The trip featured a convoy of 25 cars covering 4,000 kms. But that’s not it. The duo will also lead other women-only expeditions in 2025, including Spain in September and Nagaland in December. Glimpses from previous trips Women in the driving seat breaking stereotypes The duo is charting global territories and empowering other women to explore the joy and freedom of travelling. With people often stereotyping women drivers, they have had their fair share. “We have faced plenty of stereotypes,” Sujal says, continuing, “The most obvious is when people assumed we couldn’t drive long distances or handle difficult terrain. I remember an incident at a border checkpoint where the officers were convinced that we needed a male driver. They kept asking, ‘Madam, akele kaise drive karenge (Madam, how will you drive alone)?’ It’s always satisfying and sometimes amusing to challenge these perceptions.” Medha recalls another incident. “During another expedition, a roadside mechanic refused to believe that I had driven the vehicle through tough terrain. He was convinced that one of the male participants must have taken over,” she shares, reiterating that it is moments like these that reinforce why it’s important for more women to take the wheel and prove that stereotypes are often dated. The duo, now based in Mumbai, expresses delight on the growth of all-women trips, solo drives, and more. While women drivers started their journey a bit later, they are embracing it wholeheartedly now, embarking on new and exciting expeditions. Sujal shares, “Do you remember the first time you sat behind the wheel of a car? That spark of independence is gender neutral. However, since women drivers started their journeys a bit later, the feeling of empowerment is immense. Self-drive, women-only, and solo travel are growing at levels that are unprecedented.” It is not only them but also the many women who have travelled with them, says Medha, and their personal stories that would deeply inspire people to see the large steps they have taken to embrace a mode of travel that was esoteric a decade ago. Learning as travellers Given Sujal and Medha, who left their corporate jobs after their Morocco trip, have embraced travelling not only as a personal interest but also as a profession, they have diverse experiences and learnings to share. Medha expresses, “For me, the biggest learning has been about human connections. No matter where we go, we meet people who are kind, welcoming, and willing to help. It’s a reminder that the world is full of good people and that travel is as much about the people as it is about the places, and it makes you a better human being as well in return." “(My biggest learning is) the ability to not take life too seriously, to become resilient, and not be surprised by any unexpected turn. These have stood such solid test of time, that I often wonder how else I would have learnt it if not travel!” Sujal signs off.
19 May,2025 04:39 PM IST | Mumbai | Raaina JainLouisiana's ideal climate, diverse landscape, and native flora and fauna make outdoor recreation possible all year round with each season bringing its own unique charm and opportunities for exploration for all ages. Spring (March-May)Spring in Louisiana brings mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers, creating perfect conditions for outdoor exploration. Temperatures typically range from the mid-60s to mid-70s Fahrenheit, which is optimal for hiking, cycling, and camping. This season marks the height of neotropical bird migration, making it prime time for birders. Louisiana serves as a critical stopover point along the Mississippi Flyway, making it one of North America's premier bird-watching destinations. The diverse habitats support over 400 species, from the iconic brown pelican to rare neotropical migrants that pass through during spring as well as fall migrations. Designated birding trails, photography blinds and guided tours make it easy for birders of all skill levels to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitats. Spring also brings excellent fishing opportunities as species become more active in warm waters. Additionally, the beautiful spring season offers the perfect conditions for photography and wildlife viewing. Summer (June-August) While summer temperatures can climb into the 90s with high humidity, early mornings and evenings offer comfortable conditions for land-based activities. Summer is perfect for water sports, from kayaking and paddleboarding through cypress-tupelo swamps and peaceful bayous teeming with wildlife to swimming at local beaches. Stand-up paddleboarding has gained popularity on lakes and calmer waterways, while canoe trails through the Atchafalaya Basin provide unforgettable wilderness adventures. Whether you are casting a line in Toledo Bend Reservoir, named the top bass fishing lake in the nation, or heading into the Gulf for deep-sea adventure, Louisiana's waters offer year-round angling excitement. The state’s network of rivers, lakes and coastal waters provides anglers with opportunities to catch everything from catfish to trout. Professional guides and public fishing piers make the sport accessible to everyone from novice fishermen to seasoned anglers. Night fishing peaks during this time, especially in coastal waters. Camping is another great way to make the most of the outdoors during summertime. Fall (September-November)Many consider fall the perfect season for outdoor recreation in Louisiana. Fall colours transform the northern parishes, particularly in the Kisatchie National Forest. This is prime hunting season, with opportunities for deer, duck, and small game. Fall also brings excellent hiking conditions and comfortable camping weather. Louisiana's 2,000+ miles of trails wind through diverse landscapes, from the rolling hills of the north to the coastal plains of the south with a network of well-maintained paths and casual urban greenways perfect for family outings. State parks and nature preserves offer interpretive trails that showcase Louisiana's unique ecosystems and wildlife, while historic paths connect visitors to rich cultural heritage. Temporary cold fronts can create exciting fishing opportunities as species become more active. Winter (December-February)Louisiana's mild winters, with temperatures typically ranging from the 40s to 60s, allow outdoor activities to continue year-round. This is the peak season for waterfowl hunting in Louisiana’s world-famous marshes and wetlands. Winter brings some of the best bird-watching opportunities as millions of ducks and geese make Louisiana their seasonal home. The comfortable temperatures and lower humidity make it an excellent time for hiking and biking. Even on the coldest days, activities like golf remain viable thanks to afternoon warming on courses that range from historic clubs to modern championship designs. A diverse selection of public and private courses includes challenging links-style layouts along the coast, scenic riverside fairways, and pristine resort destinations. Many courses incorporate natural wetlands and native landscapes into their design, creating unique playing experiences that showcase Louisiana's natural beauty.
09 May,2025 07:43 PM IST | Louisiana (USA) | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
