This close-to-home destination tops the list for your next international vacation
Though trekking routes are generally avoided this time of year due to muddy trails and leeches—especially in regions like Pokhara, there's still plenty to explore. Culinary experiences are a highlight, with many choosing to unwind indoors over bowls of steaming thukpa and freshly steamed momos. For a more immersive experience, cooking classes in Kathmandu offer travellers a chance to learn how to prepare traditional dishes, including folding momos by hand. Cultural exploration remains central to the visit. Sacred landmarks such as Swayambhunath Stupa provide panoramic views of the valley and a close encounter with the country's spiritual traditions. Meanwhile, the Pashupatinath Temple along the Bagmati River continues to be a focal point for rituals that reflect Nepal's deep religious roots. With its proximity, affordability, and rich cultural offerings, Nepal stands out as an appealing option for Indian travellers looking to make the most of the monsoon season next month.
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Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
One more foreign airline in Kolkata-Bangkok section
1 2 3 Kolkata: The city will get a new international airline when Vietjet Thailand flies in from Bangkok on Nov 16. This will be the sixth airline to connect Kolkata with Bangkok and take the total flight count to 36 a week. The Thai subsidiary of Vietnam's low-cost airline Vietjet Air will operate four days a week. While the incoming flight will land in Kolkata before midnight every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday, the departing flight will be in the early hours on Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Monday. Bookings for the sector will commence on July 17. The airline will deploy its Airbus A320-200, which has 180 seats configured in an all-economy layout. Sources said the scheduled time of arrival for flight VZ770 is 11.20 pm, while the departure time for flight VZ771 is 12.20 am. You Can Also Check: Kolkata AQI | Weather in Kolkata | Bank Holidays in Kolkata | Public Holidays in Kolkata This will be the airline's third flight to India. It currently operates a flight between Mumbai and Bangkok and has also announced a flight between Mumbai and Phuket. "There is a strong demand for flights between Kolkata and Bangkok. The new airline will not only offer more options for travellers, it will also help keep fares in moderation," said Travel Agents' Federation of India national executive committee member Anil Punjabi. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Investire per il futuro? Inizia da qui eToro Click Here Undo "With the visa-free entry for Indian travellers to Thailand available till the end of 2026, additional frequency and availability of seats will boost last-minute travellers, long weekend getaways, and at the same time become more cost-effective," said Travel Agents Association of India national executive committee member Manav Soni. Sources said Vietjet would assess load factors and yield trends in the first few months of operation before deciding to make it a daily flight. At present, there are five airlines that fly between Kolkata and Bangkok: IndiGo Airlines, Thai Airways, Bhutan Airlines, Thai AirAsia, and Lion Air. IndiGo also has a daily flight between Kolkata and Phuket.
Time of India
3 hours ago
- Time of India
Anand Mahindra fell for India's ‘last village' in Himachal and you might too after seeing the viral photo
A single photograph recently mesmerized the internet, raising one simple question: is it art, AI, or nature? Industrialist answered that question by sharing a stunning image of Chitkul, the last inhabited village near the Indo-Tibetan border in Himachal Pradesh. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Captured by photographer Divya L Chaitanya, the image looks almost unreal — showcasing the turquoise Baspa River snaking between snow-capped peaks under a crystal-clear sky. Mahindra's post went viral within hours, stirring emotions, admiration, and awe across platforms. But beyond the visual magic lies a real village rooted in sustainability, natural beauty, and rich Himalayan culture. Anand Mahindra captures Chitkul's magic in viral photo that looks too perfect to be real The viral image features a panoramic view of Chitkul, where the Baspa River glistens like liquid emerald against a backdrop of towering Himalayan ranges. Wooden houses dot the landscape while snow-covered peaks stand sentinel in the distance. Shared on X (formerly Twitter), Anand Mahindra captioned the photo: "Nature's brush or digital magic? But the image is raw and untouched… reminding us that NO artist can outpaint nature's canvas." The photo sparked thousands of reactions, with viewers questioning whether it was a hyper-real painting or a digitally enhanced render. Where is Chitkul and why is it so special Chitkul, located at an altitude of 3,450 meters, is the last Indian village on the Indo-Tibetan road in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh. Accessible only during specific months due to snow and weather conditions, the village represents the frontier of human settlement. What sets Chitkul apart is not just its remoteness but its breathtaking setting—surrounded by alpine meadows, glacial rivers, and panoramic views of the Himalayan range. The village is sparsely populated, retaining a sense of untouched serenity rarely found in more commercialized hill stations. Sustainability in the mountains: Chitkul's green model for tourism Beyond its scenic allure, Chitkul is a model of eco-conscious living. According to the Incredible India tourism board, the local community actively: Practices organic farming with little to no chemical use Engages in reforestation to combat soil erosion and preserve native tree species Encourages the use of eco-friendly alternatives over plastic Promotes responsible tourism to ensure the environment remains undisturbed These practices have helped maintain Chitkul's pristine environment even as tourism gradually increases. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Chitkul as a spiritual and adventure destination For trekkers and spiritual seekers, Chitkul is a gateway to one of the Himalayas' most revered routes — the Kinnaur Kailash Parikrama. This sacred pilgrimage encircles the Kinnaur Kailash peak and is believed to be deeply connected to Lord Shiva. The trek attracts both seasoned mountaineers and religious devotees, offering a mix of spiritual fulfillment and physical endurance. Visitors also engage in shorter hikes through apple orchards, riverside paths, and nearby meadows rich in Himalayan flora and fauna. How to reach Chitkul : Travel essentials Reaching Chitkul is an adventure in itself. Here's a quick guide: By Air: The nearest airport is Chandigarh. By Train: Chandigarh and Kalka are the most accessible railheads. By Road: From Chandigarh or Delhi, one must travel to Shimla, then onward to Reckong Peo via Sangla Valley. By Bus: HRTC buses from Delhi and Chandigarh go to Reckong Peo, from where taxis or local buses take you to Chitkul. The final leg of the journey is scenic but challenging, often through winding, narrow mountain roads. Source: Incredible India Chitkul's viral photo ignites online praise and calls for nature conservation Once Mahindra's post went live, netizens across platforms couldn't stop praising the surreal beauty of the image. Many shared their own travel experiences, affirming that no photograph can truly capture the tranquility of Chitkul in person. Others remarked how no filter or digital manipulation could compete with nature's raw splendor. Photographers praised the composition and lighting, while nature lovers emphasized how such places reinforce the need for conservation and mindful tourism. Also Read |
India.com
4 hours ago
- India.com
Discover The Crowded Corners Of Udaipur Where Every Shop Tells a Different Story
Udaipur holds the honor of being known as the 'City of Lakes' together with its East Asian nickname 'Venice of the East' while it embodies history along with cultural richness and traditional exuberance. Through its markets Udaipur reveals its true spirit to visitors who come to explore its magnificent palaces and lakes and beautiful scenery. The active shopping districts combine their role as trading centers with their status as places that unite traditional customs from past eras with contemporary culture. Udaipur markets present both elaborate handmade objects and scented spices while they deliver an authentic experience of Rajasthan heritage and culture. A Glimpse into Tradition: Hathi Pol Bazaar The market complex known as Hathi Pol Bazaar stands as the essential attraction in the collection of Udaipur markets because of its proximity to City Palace. This economic center has supplied Udaipur with financial stability for many consecutive generations. Originally built to welcome visitors to the royal palace, Hathi Pol now shows people the path to encounter Rajasthan's traditional artistic heritage. Traditional textiles from Rajasthan occupy Hathi Pol Bazaar's shops along the tight market alleys where customers find block-printed fabrics and tie-and-dye (bandhani) sarees and leheriya dupattas. Traditional textiles in these items bear evidence of family-to-family transmission of skilled technical expertise for more than 200 years. Visitors have the opportunity to view miniature paintings because they are an essential artistic tradition of Udaipur. The miniature paintings represent mythological views and natural landscapes along with everyday situations through an art-style that reveals the profound precision Rajasthani artists employ. Customers looking to buy Hathi Pol's available merchandise will discover semi-precious stone jewelry with traditional Rajasthani designs and classic puppet ornaments that represent Rajasthan's cultural heritage. The Spice Symphony: Bada Bazaar For a sensory overload unlike any other, head to Bada Bazaar , one of the oldest markets in Udaipur. In the vicinity of Jagdish Chowk this market stands out because it provides a complete selection of spices as well as dry fruits and traditional snacks. Walking through the narrow alleys of this marketplace you will experience the enticing scent of fresh spices particularly turmeric and cumin with cardamom and saffron because spice trade served as the cornerstone of India's commerce during that era. Local eateries inside Bada Bazaar offer the traditional dishes of dal baati churma as well as gatte ki sabzi and mirchi vada. Food lovers who enjoy street eats will find their happiness either in the spicy kachoris or the traditional sweet jalebis offered at this location. Daily household needs and rustic handmade items such as brass kitchenware and earthenware as well as terracotta artwork can be found at this market which captures the essence of rural Indian lifestyle. Artisanal Treasures: Shilpgram Market Scattered within a brief ride from the urban center stands the Shilpgram which presents a combination of craft traditions and open-air shopping at Rajasthan's artistic hotspots. The West Zone Cultural Centre operates both an art display and winter seasonal events at Shilpgram. Artisans originating from throughout Rajasthan meet at this location to demonstrate their mastery of pottery as well as weaving techniques and embroidery and metalwork. Collectors and all those who adore handmade products will find their ideal treasures at the Shilpgram market. The market allows visitors to acquire beautiful carved wooden furniture in addition to silver filigree jewelry and the colorful traditional quilts which locals name razai. Shilpgram stands out because the site supports traditional artisan skills and gives sustainable employment to rural craftspeople. Shilpgram functions as both a trading place and a cultural center through which visitors gain enhanced knowledge of rural artistic traditions by participating in artisan workshops and demonstrations. Modern Meets Traditional: Fateh Sagar Market Udaipur retains its historic character yet it welcomes modern fashion trends. Fateh Sagar Market demonstrates an excellent blend of traditional and contemporary elements as it exists near the beautiful Fateh Sagar Lake. Fateh Sagar Market stands apart from traditional older markets since it provides a controlled shopping environment while maintaining a wide variety of items that include both traditional Indian wear and Western fashion collections. The marketplace targets young people who want to purchase stylish garments and fashionable accessories as well as shoes. Traditional aspects play a dominant role among the offerings in this market environment. Deserted boutiques that specialize in handcrafted lehengas and embroidered kurtas blend with cafes and dessert places serving fusion foods at this location. People enjoy combining their shopping outings with lake-view walks at Fateh Sagar Lake because of its close location. Nighttime Magic: Doodh Talai Market When the sun sinks below the horizon Udaipur reveals itself as a city in golden tones while Doodh Talai Market springs to life. This market stands close to Doodh Talai Lake as visitors from all around gather to appreciate evening snacks along with buying final-minute souvenirs. Affordable local items including keychains and postcards with the Lake Palace and Monsoon Palace pictures are among the merchandise that vendors sell at their stalls. Food stalls attract customers with various tempting items including masala chai and golgappas together with hot corn made through charcoal roasting. After dusk visitors should experience the energetic market scene of Doodh Talai Market because it features both spectacular mountain views and Lake vistas. Conclusion: The Heartbeat of Udaipur Udaipur's local markets comprise the city's living essence by perfectly expressing its forever youthful character and enduring grace. The cultural tapestry of Udaipur becomes evident through visiting each market such as the historic Hathi Pol Bazaar and the shopping hub of Bada Bazaar as well as the artistic Shilpgram. These marketplaces serve as social hubs where people meet to see stories develop and sustain cultural heritage. Beyond its lavish royal palaces and peaceful lakes Udaipur maintains the richness of an energetic local community because its residents connect with their heritage while making progress into the future. A journey to the vibrant local markets completely reveals Udaipur's true essence through its sights and sounds and distinctive odors that leaves everlasting memories similar to the city's colors.
