Consolidated by Ādi Shankaracharya (8th century CE), Advaita proposes that Brahman is the only reality, and the phenomenal world is an illusion (māyā). It teaches that individual consciousness (ātman) and universal consciousness (Brahman) are identical, famously expressed as 'Tat Tvam Asi' (That Thou Art).
Founded by Makkhali Gosala (6th century BCE), Ājīvika taught a doctrine of complete determinism and fatalism (niyati). It denied free will and karma, asserting that all beings progress through a predetermined cycle of 8.4 million rebirths before automatically attaining liberation.
Propounded by thinkers like Bhaskara (9th-10th century CE) and Nimbarka (13th century CE), this Vedantic school holds that the relationship between Brahman and the world/souls is one of simultaneous difference and non-difference, like the relationship between waves and the ocean.
A festival observed by mothers for the well-being of their children, involving fasting and prayers to Goddess Ahoi.
An auspicious day for beginning new ventures and purchasing gold, believed to bring prosperity and good fortune.
The final day of the Ganesh festival when idols are immersed in water. Also marks the worship of Lord Vishnu in his Ananta (infinite) form.
Agra Fort is a grand Mughal fort in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India. It was built by Emperor Akbar in 1565 and served as the capital of India during the Mughal era. The fort is renowned for its intricate architecture, including the Diwan-i-Am (Hall of Public Audience), Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience), and the impressive gateway known as the Hathi Pol (Elephant Gate). It also houses the Gurudwara where Guru Tegh Bahadur, the ninth Sikh Guru, was imprisoned by Emperor Aurangzeb.
Nestled in the Western Ghats of Karnataka, Agumbe is a serene hill station renowned for its sprawling coffee plantations. Surrounded by lush greenery, it offers a picturesque setting with tea and spice plantations. The region is perfect for trekking enthusiasts and features the iconic Sharavathi Waterfall nearby. Its cool climate makes it an ideal retreat from bustling cities.
Nestled in the scenic valleys of Jammu & Kashmir, Aharbal Waterfall is a breathtaking natural wonder. Known for its cascading waters and lush surroundings, it offers a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility. The waterfall is a popular spot for trekking and sightseeing, surrounded by dense forests and serene landscapes, making it a must-visit destination in Poonch district.
Kamakhya Temple is one of the most revered shrines dedicated to Goddess Kamakshi, an incarnation of Shakti. It is located in Guwahati, Assam, and is considered one of the 51 Shakta Piths across India. The temple dates back to ancient times and holds immense significance in Hinduism, particularly for followers of Tantra and Shaktism. The architecture of the temple reflects a blend of Nagara and Dravidian styles, and it is surrounded by lush greenery, offering a serene spiritual experience.
Kamshet is a hill station in Maharashtra, known for its breathtaking views and adventure sports like paragliding. It offers serene landscapes, lush forests, and scenic waterfalls, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and trekkers. Located near Pune, Kamshet is a hidden gem offering tranquility and adventure in equal measure.
The Kanaka Durga Temple is a famous Hindu shrine dedicated to Goddess Durga, situated on the Indrakiladri Hill in Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh. This temple holds immense cultural and historical significance, featuring intricate architecture and vibrant festivals like Navdurga. It offers stunning views of the Krishna River and is a must-visit for those exploring the rich heritage of Andhra Pradesh.
Nestled in the Lesser Himalayas, Kanatal is a serene hill station surrounded by lush green valleys and dense forests. Known for its picturesque landscapes, it offers trekking opportunities to nearby peaks like Gangkara and Kedarkantha, making it a perfect destination for adventure and nature enthusiasts.
Kangla Fort, located in Manipur, India, is an ancient fortress that dates back to the 12th century. This historic fort is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Manipur and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. With its crumbling walls and imposing architecture, Kangla Fort is a must-visit destination for history buffs and those interested in exploring the region's storied past.
Kanha National Park is one of the most famous national parks in India, known for its rich biodiversity and wildlife. It is home to tigers, leopards, wild elephants, gaurs, and a variety of bird species. The park is spread over an area of 925 km² and offers dense forests, grasslands, and wetlands. It is also one of the few national parks in India where you can spot the rare Bengal tiger. The park was established in 1933 and was later upgraded to a tiger reserve under Project Tiger in 1973.
The Kanheri Caves are a group of rock-cut Buddhist shrines located on the slopes of the Western Ghats near Mumbai, India. These caves date back to the 2nd century BCE and were part of the Karla-Letoon group of caves. They feature intricate carvings, stupas, viharas (monasteries), and chaityas (prayer halls). The Kanheri Caves are a testament to the rich Buddhist history of India and are surrounded by lush greenery, offering a serene retreat from the bustling city below.
The Kapaleeshwarar Temple in Mylapore, Chennai, is a stunning Dravidian-style temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Known for its vibrant gopuram and intricate stone carvings, it stands as an iconic landmark of Tamil Nadu, attracting thousands of visitors each year.
Nestled in the Shivalik Hills of Himachal Pradesh, Kasauli is a picturesque hill station known for its lush greenery and pleasant climate. It offers activities like trekking to nearby peaks and boating on artificial lakes, providing a perfect blend of adventure and natural beauty.
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the most sacred temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is located in Varanasi and is believed to be one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India.
