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India.com
6 days ago
- India.com
Timing Is Everything: When To Visit Ahmedabad For Weather, Culture & Wow Moments
Ahmedabad is the largest city in Gujarat and it is a mix of culture, history and modernity. The Old City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site which is certainly worth a visit for those with an interest in history, art, different cuisines and architecture alike. But when is the ideal time to visit Ahmedabad? Depending on the season, there are a variety of unique options to choose from. Let's go over all four seasons in Ahmedabad to narrow down when and why would be the perfect time to visit. Winter (November to February): The Prime Tourist Season February to November are the most famous months to visit Ahmedabad. The city can be enjoyed from a range of 12 to 25 degrees celsius. This makes it ideal for outdoor activities such as sightseeing. Some of the historical places you can visit are Adalaj Stepwell, Jama Masjid, and Sabarmati Ashram. All three are must see places in Ahmedabad. A major highlight in January is the International Kite Festival. The sky is completely filled with multi-colored kites that come in every possible shape and size. They are an incredible experience that captures the festive spirit of the city. Undoubtedly kite enthusiasts love this time alongside food lovers as well. Sweeping servings of gajar ka halwa to piping hot undhiyu, Ahmedabad has an incredible range of cuisine that comes out in winter. Why Visit in Winter? All sightseeing places bloom during winter and come out in full glory. The International Kite Festival and other similar Kite Festival celebrate the unique kite flying culture of Gujarat India along with the Bhuj Festival which celebrates the magnificent firework displays during Diwali. Ahmedabad's midsummer foods can be best experienced during the winter months in Gujarat, especially during Shakarai Chaulmoogra. In Ahmedabad, During March and June: For the Temp-Fearing This region is ideally hotter than other parts of India with mercury soaring upto 45°C during summers. It is not the most hospitable nor the tourist friendly season. But there are some benefits for the heat tolerant folks. Crowd control is much better during this period. So measured with the lesser the number of tourists, the better the tranquil and peaceful experience at renowned spots such as the Sarkhej Roza, Kankaria Lake, and the Calico Museum Of Textiles. In addition, August has plenty of vacancies for hotel rooms and flight tickets. Explorers of ahmedabad during the summer months should consider staying indoors and only step out for activities during the mornings and evenings. Keeping hydrated is key, especially paired with tea and sherbates based around lemon. What is the Purpose of Summer Visit? Low levels of Tourist, which makes it easy to sight see and visit the many restaurants and parks that Ahmedabad has to offer. Lower prices for hotels and other accommodations. Perfect for assiduous travelers eager to see what is not thronged in the other half of the year. Monsoon (July to October): A Season of Rejuvenation The Monsoon season floods Ahmedabad with vivid colors while offering a cozy retreat from the hot months prior. The moderate rainfall during this season cools the temperatures down to a comfortable 25°C to 35°C, which is perfect for exploring this beautiful city. Ahmedabad's lakes and gardens start changing into unusually spectacular tourist sites during the monsoons. Vastrapur Lake and Kankaria Lake, as well as many majestic historical places like the Dada Harir Stepwell, start looking breathtaking when showered with rain. Additionally, cultural exhibitions and events are bound to occur in the city which also adds to the excitement around the monsoon season. One of the most notable events is Rath Yatra where numerous devotees gather to pull the chariot in the city of Ahmedabad in July. What Makes Monsoons Special? The city becomes greener and more appealing. The combination of rain and the landmarks is magical. Celebration of cultural festivals like the Rath Yatra. When is the Best Time to Visit? Undoubtedly, every season has its benefits, but during winters, the city shines brightest. The extravagant yet warm festive spirit accompanied with the delicious food makes visiting Ahmedabad in the winter the most enjoyable. Still, if your intent is to travel on a budget or want a serene vacation, summer and monsoon has its own advantages as long as you plan well in advance. Best season over-all: Winter (November to February). Best season for budget travel: Summer (March to June). Best season for nature lovers: Monsoon (July to October). Final Thoughts Ahmedabad is the city which is bound to offer you a reward at every corner regardless of the time you decide to visit. The most loved season is definitely winter but as summers and monsoons approach, the city does not lose its charm for those willing to be flexible with the weather. It doesn't matter whether you fall in love with the glorious history, the cultural diversity, or the mouth watering food, Ahmedabad will never disappoint you and guarantee some amazing memories. Make your travel Ahmedabad specific plans based on your likings and travel habits, and embrace the magic of the city in the season of your choosing.
India.com
14-07-2025
- India.com
Explore Surat's Glittering Diamond History With These Beautiful Walking Trails
Informally referred to as the diamond city of India, Surat is an ever-bustling city attributed to its culture, history, textiles, and diamond industries. The city is famous for its commendable commercial developments, but it also has many wonderful attractions which are often overlooked. One of the best ways to soak in the true atmosphere of Surat is with a walking tour. Strolling around the city provides an opportunity to enjoy its breathtaking features, learn about its famous historical sites, and also visit under-appreciated places. Below are seven walking tours of Surat, which will take you through the unique culture, history, and lifestyle of the city. 1. The Heritage Walk: Tracing Surat's Glorious Past Embark on a heritage walk that lets you uncover historical sites in Surat. First Stop is Surat Castle, which was built by Sultan Mahmud III in the 16th Century with the intention of protecting the city from Portuguese invasions. Even in contemporary times, the elaborate carvings and well structured architecture are proof of Surat's importance in the Medieval Era. Then, I suggest that you go to the Dutch Garden, a peaceful burial ground for Dutch traders who used to live in Surat. The walk also involves visiting Old Anglican Church and Jama Masjid which are parts of the Deep City's multicultural legacy. This tour allows him towards the city and a reminder of what it was like as a border region and a bustling outgoing port city. 2. The Textile Trail: Exploring the Fabric of Surat This beautiful city is a home to many textiles and industries to accommodate its famous textile industry. Start your tour from the city's core, the Textile Market. Here you will find a lot of fabric pieces, sarees, and dresses being traded and the market is full of life. Take a walk through the bylanes of Rander, an old settlement of handloom weavers and traditional textile workshops. Along the way, meet local artisans to understand the complex procedure of dyeing and printing fabric. Finally, step into the Surat Silk Exchange where you will marvel at the active trade in silk and other fabrics. This walk will expose you to the creativity and craftsmanship which has been the hallmark of the city's trade for centuries. This walk is ideal for those who wish to understand the masterpiece of Surat, a renowned world textile city. 3. Riverside Relaxing: By the Tapi River Scroll For the people of Surat, the River Tapi is the source of their life, and walking along the river offers a soothing relief from the congestion of the city. One can start the tour at Sarthana Nature Park, a vibrant area renowned for its leisurely strolls. While walking along the river, you would also find Weir Cum Causeway, one of the local favorites for spending time. Keep walking to the beautifully constructed promenade of Tapi Riverfront which features well kept gardens, fountains, and sitting spaces. The remarkable beauty of Tapi riverfront is accentuated in the evening with the lights turned on. In addition to quietly touring the city, this tour allows one to relish the natural beauty of Surat. 4. Food's Delight: An Experience for Eating Lovers: A Walk This walking tour is meant to please your palate, and Surat is indeed a foodie haven. You can start off at Ghari Gali, where you can find a Surati Ghari. This sweet dish is a narrow road that is known for its Surati Ghari pastry encased in an outer covering of nuts and khoya stuffing. Also, don't miss out on trying Locho, the savory option. Your next stop should be at Rander Road, famous for side stalls selling snacks like khaman, khandvi, and sev usal. Your last stop can be the Surti Khaman House where you can try the local specialty of the city, Surti Khamen. This walk without doubt provides insight into the diverse food culture of Surat and therefore, it should definitely be taken. 5. The Spiritual Sojourn: Temples and Mosques Walking and sightseeing in Surat becomes more interesting for it has multiple religious buildings and sites to explore, and so this guided tour will enable participants to visit the most famous temples. From Saint Pierre To Marvels, one is bound to come across the Sardar Patel Museum. It offers several displays on Surat's history and culture. For further exploration, the Chintamani Jain Temple is a step closer. This place of devotion is famous for its architectural work which include marvelous sculptures and carvings. Afterwards, one can also visit the quiet Sai Baba Temple, a resting spot for the famous and revered saint. The walk also has the Rustomji Masjid in its program, this mosque is an essential part of the city's Islamic history and some would say its beauty can only be found in its rich and deep culture. Surat has a unique blend of religion and this walk offers a splendid experience of that diversity. 6. The Diamond District: A Glittering Walk Your adventure starts as soon as you get to India's diamond capital, Surat. You'll eventually end up at the entrance of the Surat Diamond Bourse too, which is one of the most important diamond commercial centers in the world. Here, you'll witness the intricate processes that go into polishing and cutting diamonds, along with dazzling stones at the bourse. After this, the trip continues to the Diamond Research and Mercantile City (DREAM City), a state-of-the-art complex committed to the diamond industry. You will also be taken to small souvenir shops where you will be able find stunning diamond jewelry pieces. This walk will give you an insightful glimpse of the industry of diamonds in Surat and this city's significance in the international market of diamonds. 7. The Local Life Walk: Seeing Surat from the Streets In order to appreciate the life of Surat, one has to see it at a closer level. This walking tour will take you to the city's lively neighborhoods, where you can engage with people and see what they do in their day to day life. Begin at Athwa Lines, a well-known commercial area with lots of markets and street food. Next, travel to Adajan which is a beautiful suburb full of trees and pretty houses. Also included is a trip to Pal where you find a region with old narrow lanes typical of bygone days. Make sure to sit on the small tea stalls and gossip with the people to understand their lives. By walking in this manner, one will understand the everyday life of the people of Surat the best. Conclusion Lastly, I can assure you for a fact that no one can successfully travel to India without visiting Surat. The beauty of the city is unmatched, and it would feel like a blend of cultures interconnected with vibrant traditions. From towering monuments and active trade centers to calm river flows and lively districts, each part of vibrant Surat is waiting to be explored. So, whether you're a traveler or concerned more about history, you would surely soak in the culture and dynamic life of the city. So get your walking shoes on and commence your journey to this breathtaking place.
Time of India
18-06-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
SIT chargesheet names MP Barq, mosque head in Sambhal violence case
1 2 3 Bareilly: UP Police's special investigation team (SIT) in Sambhal filed a 1,100-page chargesheet on Wednesday naming Samajwadi Party MP Ziaur Rahman Barq and Jama Masjid's president Zafar Ali among 22 people accused of inciting violence and presenting false evidence during unrest that erupted on Nov 24, 2024 in which five locals died and several police officers were injured during a court-appointed survey of the Mughal-era structure. Sohail Iqbal, son of SP MLA Iqbal Mahmood, was granted a clean chit. Police registered seven FIRs and victims' families filed five more. Chargesheets have been filed in 10 of the 12 cases. One named the MP, the MLA's son, and 700–800 unidentified people, leading to the arrest of the mosque committee president. Sambhal SP Krishan Kumar Bishnoi said, "We have filed a chargesheet in case no 335/24 and the MP is an accused along with Zafar Ali. Another chargesheet will be filed soon in a separate case. " Barq, protected by a high court stay on arrest, was questioned for four hours on Apr 8 in Delhi. The unrest began after a civil suit was filed on Nov 19, 2024, in the court of civil judge (senior division), Chandausi, alleging Jama Masjid was built over the Hari Har temple. While the second survey was underway on Nov 24, a large crowd gathered, resulting in violence. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Clean Warehouses = Safe Workplaces SearchMore Learn More Undo The survey report was submitted on Jan 2. The matter is still pending in court. The mosque, built in 1526 by Babur, is a protected monument under the Ancient Monuments Protection Act, 1904. In May 2025, Allahabad high court upheld the trial court's decision allowing the survey, ruling that the case does not fall under the Places of Worship Act. Following the violence, internet services were suspended, and schools were shut. Police arrested over 80 people. The SIT served notices to the accused, including Barq in March and Sohail Iqbal in May. Recently, three accused received conditional bail from HC due to lack of clear evidence.
NDTV
10-06-2025
- Politics
- NDTV
Who Are Delhi's Roads Named After?
New Delhi: By the time you've made your way from Tughlaq Road to Bhagat Singh Marg, you've time-travelled about 700 years. And you didn't even notice. Delhi isn't just a city of monuments, it's a city of memory. Its roads, in particular, are time capsules. They don't just take you places; they tell you who got to write the history books. Or rewrite them. From Mughal emperors and British viceroys to freedom fighters and near-forgotten local leaders, the capital's street signs double up as a living museum of India's political, cultural and ideological inheritance. And while the buildings beside them have crumbled and risen again, the road names, with all their symbolic weight, have stayed. Sometimes unchanged, sometimes challenged, sometimes completely rewritten. In Delhi, the battle over who we are often begins with where we drive. Names That Built Empires Walk, or rather, drive through Lutyens' Delhi, and you'll still find yourself surrounded by the ghosts of the Mughal dynasty. Akbar Road. Shahjahan Road. Humayun Road. Even Babar Lane. Some of the oldest roads in Delhi carry the names of rulers from the Delhi Sultanate and Mughal Empire, eras that deeply shaped the city's language, architecture and power structures. Tughlaq Road: Named after Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq, founder of the Tughlaq dynasty. Ironically, his capital, Tughlaqabad, lies in ruins, but the road named after him runs through the heart of Lutyens' Delhi. Akbar Road: For the Mughal emperor, often called the architect of syncretic rule in India. Home to several Congress party offices, it has become a symbolic space for political power. Aurangzeb Road (renamed Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Road in 2015): One of the most controversial names. Aurangzeb, a strict Mughal ruler, is seen by some as a despot and by others as a devout leader. The renaming was framed as honouring a "true nationalist." Shahjahan Road: Named after the emperor who built the Red Fort and Jama Masjid, two of Delhi's most enduring icons. But in recent years, these names have come under fire - literally, under white paint and political petitions. In 2022, Delhi BJP chief Adesh Gupta urged the NDMC to rename six such roads, calling them "symbols of slavery." He proposed new names: Akbar Road as Maharana Pratap Road, Tughlaq Road as Guru Gobind Singh Marg and Shahjahan Road after General Bipin Rawat. This isn't new. In 2015, Aurangzeb Road became APJ Abdul Kalam Road following public pressure and political backing. Critics called it erasure of history, supporters said it was historical correction. Either way, the precedent had been set. Viceroys, Princes And The British Blueprint When the British rebuilt Delhi as the new imperial capital in 1911, they named roads not for local figures, but for governors, viceroys, and visiting royalty. Curzon Road (now Kasturba Gandhi Marg): Originally named after Lord Curzon, infamous for dividing Bengal in 1905. Renamed post-independence to honour Gandhi's wife and fellow freedom fighter. Connaught Place / Connaught Circus: Still bears the name of Prince Arthur, Duke of Connaught. Though officially renamed Rajiv Chowk and Indira Chowk, the British names continue in common usage. Kingsway (now Kartavya Path): Once the route for British parades, later renamed Rajpath post-Independence, and more recently renamed Kartavya Path under the Modi government, in a bid to decolonise and "Indianise" public symbols. Minto Road and Minto Bridge: Still named after Lord Minto, British Viceroy from 1905-1910. Unlike Curzon or Kingsway, these names haven't faced public or political pressure yet, possibly because they're lower-profile. Prince Arthur, Duke of Connaught, didn't do much in Delhi, but he got a traffic circle and a central shopping district. Lord Curzon, infamous for partitioning Bengal, was once immortalised in the very heart of New Delhi. These names reinforced the empire's narrative: that Britain had brought order, governance and elegance to a "wild" land. Post-1947, newly independent India began peeling off these layers. Kingsway became Rajpath. Curzon Road was rechristened for the Gandhian legacy. Race Course Road - the address of the Prime Minister - was transformed into Lok Kalyan Marg in 2016. But the residue of colonial presence still lingers. Freedom Fighters, Founding Fathers And Forgotten Heroes Post-independence, Delhi saw a wave of renamings - not just to erase colonial names, but to honour the leaders who shaped the idea of a free India. Vijay Chowk: Formerly the site of imperial parades, it now honours India's victory in the 1971 war. Subhash Marg, Bhagat Singh Marg, Rafi Ahmed Kidwai Marg, Lala Lajpat Rai Marg, Dadabhai Naoroji Road: Each one commemorates leaders who resisted both British rule and communal politics. Kamraj Marg, Krishna Menon Marg, Purana Quila Road (near Indira Gandhi's residence): Markers of India's Nehruvian legacy, many of these roads are located near the power corridors of central Delhi. Interestingly, Race Course Road, the Prime Minister's official residence address, was renamed Lok Kalyan Marg in 2016. A symbolic shift from colonial leisure to public welfare. Municipal bodies in Delhi, especially the BJP-led North Delhi Municipal Corporation, have often renamed unnamed or obscure properties after local figures, from community leaders to councillors and even vague "religious personalities." In one recent round, 34 new names were assigned: Baba Ramdev Park (not the yoga guru, but a Rajasthani saint), Master Attar Singh Park (proposed because "the Brahmin population exceeds 10,000"), and Ashwini Kumar Hall (identity unclear). Even leaders from the ruling party admitted that councillors were proposing names after relatives or friends. And since the rules only prohibit renaming properties that already have names, these proposals walk a legal grey zone, while cluttering the symbolic map of Delhi with a mix of reverence and randomness. Roads Of Memory Thankfully, not all renaming debates are messy. Some road names honour genuine titans of Indian history. Netaji Subhash Marg. Bhagat Singh Marg. Kamraj Marg. Rajendra Prasad Road. These are legacy markers, not contested so much as celebrated. Others, like Chittaranjan Park and Kamla Nehru Ridge, preserve the memory of leaders who didn't wield swords but still shaped the nation. Mr. C.R. Das, a lawyer and activist, and Kamla Nehru, a social reformer and political partner to Jawaharlal Nehru, may have been overshadowed by bigger figures, but their names remain rooted in the city's geography. Where Faith Finds Its Address Delhi has long been a melting pot, not just of power but of prayer. Some road names, thankfully, have little to do with politics and more with everyday geography or faith. Street names like Nizamuddin, Jama Masjid Road, Gurudwara Rakab Ganj Road and St. James Church Road illustrate how faiths have lived side-by-side in the capital. Yamuna Marg: Named after the river that has shaped Delhi for centuries. Nizamuddin Road: Home to the dargah of Sufi saint Nizamuddin Auliya, this road blends religion and history. Gurudwara Rakab Ganj Road, Hanuman Road, Church Road: Reflect religious diversity and how Delhi's roads mirror its faith communities. Chandni Chowk: Designed by Jahanara Begum, daughter of Shah Jahan. Its name means "moonlit square," and it still bustles with traders, shoppers and history. These spiritual street names aren't controversial. They're lived realities: shrines in stone and asphalt, as sacred as they are secular. Roads That Remember (And Roads That Forget) There are glaring omissions, too. Delhi still lacks roads named after many iconic women beyond the Nehru-Gandhi family. Rani Gaidinliu, Captain Lakshmi Sehgal and Hansa Mehta - a few feature on the map. Dalit leaders, too, are underrepresented beyond Ambedkar. What's In A Name? It's easy to scoff at road renaming as political posturing, and sometimes, it is. But in a city as old and contested as Delhi, names do matter. They tell us whose story gets told. They shape the way we remember and forget. After all, roads outlast the regimes that name them. Politicians come and go. Monarchs fall. Councillors get voted out. But Shahjahan Road? It's still there. So is Bhagat Singh Marg. The signboards may fade, and the asphalt may crack. But the memory endures. Which is why every name change becomes a fight not just for territory, but for truth. Every Turn Tells A Story The next time you take a cab in Delhi, look up from your phone. You might just find yourself driving over the past. Was this road named for a conqueror, a coloniser, a revolutionary or a forgotten saint? Was it renamed in rage or reverence? Does it belong to the people who walk it every day, or to those who only seek to rename it from afar? Delhi's roads don't just lead you somewhere. They ask where you're coming from. So, the next time you ask for directions, don't just look at the map. Look at the names. They'll tell you more than Google ever could.
NDTV
07-06-2025
- NDTV
6 Hidden Gems In Madhya Pradesh For A Perfect Weekend Getaway
Quick Read Summary is AI generated, newsroom reviewed. Madhya Pradesh offers hidden gems for travellers seeking tranquility. Discover Patalkot's lush valley, Ginnorgarh Fort's scenic views, Chanderi's rich heritage, Sardarpur's wildlife, Tawa Reservoir's serene escape, and Amarkantak's peaceful nature. Madhya Pradesh might be known for its iconic destinations like Khajuraho, Kanha, and Bandhavgarh, but there's a whole other side to the heart of India that rarely gets the spotlight. If you're the kind of traveller who's done the usual tourist circuit and is craving quieter, lesser-known places with real character, you're in for a treat. We've rounded up six hidden gems in Madhya Pradesh that are perfect for a quick weekend break. Think serene waterfalls, forgotten forts, and sleepy towns where time moves just a little bit slower. Each spot offers something unique without the crowds — and yes, they're all within a manageable drive from major cities like Bhopal, Indore, or Jabalpur. Here Are 6 Offbeat Weekend Getaways In Madhya Pradesh: 1. Sardarpur Wildlife Sanctuary Located in the Dhar district near the Madhya Pradesh-Maharashtra border, Sardarpur Wildlife Sanctuary is so low-key that even most locals haven't heard of it. It's a grassland sanctuary spread across about 348 square kilometres, and is especially known for its blackbuck population. Birdwatchers will find plenty to smile about here too, especially between November and February. Since it's still off the mainstream tourism radar, you'll have the landscape — and the antelopes — pretty much to yourself. 2. Ginnorgarh Fort About 60 km from Bhopal, Ginnorgarh Fort sits dramatically on a hilltop, surrounded by the Ratapani Wildlife Sanctuary. The climb up to the fort is half the charm-it's a fairly easy 3-km trek through forest trails, making it ideal for a short adventure. The fort itself, though in ruins, still holds remnants of Mughal and Gond architecture. There are water tanks carved into the rock, and the view from the top is straight out of a postcard. It's quiet, atmospheric, and refreshingly free of selfie-stick-wielding tourists. 3. Chanderi Orchha might hog the historical limelight, but just three hours away, Chanderi is an underrated stunner. Known for its intricate handwoven sarees, the town also boasts a rich mix of Islamic, Hindu and Jain heritage. Think ancient gates, ruined palaces, and hilltop forts with barely another soul in sight. The Chanderi Fort, Jama Masjid, and the serene Kati Ghati gateway are all worth visiting. Don't skip the local weaving centres — watching artisans at work here feels like a mini time capsule into India's textile heritage. 5. Tawa Reservoir If you've been craving a peaceful break by the water, Tawa Reservoir near Hoshangabad is your answer. It's a lesser-known alternative to popular lake destinations and has a laid-back charm that's hard to beat. You can go boating, take a ride on the Tawa Dam cruise (which also passes the entry to the Satpura Tiger Reserve), or simply spend the weekend unwinding in one of the lakeside lodges. Sunsets here are genuinely stunning, especially in the cooler months. 6. Amarkantak Yes, Amarkantak is a pilgrimage town, but it's also a hill station of sorts, located at the meeting point of the Vindhya and Satpura ranges. It's the origin of the Narmada and Son rivers, and the surroundings are dotted with forest trails, waterfalls, and quiet temples. Even if you're not here for the spiritual aspect, the clean air, hilly terrain, and overall calmness make Amarkantak perfect for a weekend reset. Don't miss the Kapil Dhara and Dudh Dhara waterfalls, especially right after the monsoons. 6. Patalkot Tucked away in the Tamia block of Chhindwara district, Patalkot is a horseshoe-shaped valley surrounded by hills and dense forest. The valley is home to tribal communities like the Bharia and Gond, who still live traditionally with little influence from the outside world. Patalkot's untouched beauty and ecological richness make it feel like stepping into a different era. You can trek through forest trails, learn about herbal medicines used by local healers, or just soak in the peaceful vibe. Bonus: The monsoon months turn the entire valley lush and green, perfect for nature lovers.
