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.
Nestled in the Lesser Himalayas, Lansdowne is a serene hill station in Uttarakhand, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and valleys. Known for its colonial-era architecture, it features The Mall, a charming pedestrian street lined with old buildings. Surrounded by lush forests and meadows, Lansdowne provides an ideal escape for nature lovers and history enthusiasts, with nearby trekking opportunities in the Himalayas.
Nestled in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra, Lavasa is a picturesque hill station known for its lush greenery, serene lakes, and pleasant climate. It offers numerous opportunities for adventure and exploration, with activities like trekking and water sports available.
Lepakshi Temple is a famous Dravidian-style temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in the Anantapur district of Andhra Pradesh. It is known for its unique architecture, including monolithic pillars and intricate carvings. The temple is situated amidst dense forests and offers a serene environment for visitors seeking both spiritual and cultural experiences.
The Living Root Bridges of Meghalaya are unique natural wonders created by the Khasi and Jaintia tribes. These bridges are crafted from living tree roots and vines, gracefully spanning valleys and streams in the region. The most famous examples can be found near Cherrapunji and Nongriat village, showcasing the ingenuity and harmony of the local communities with nature.
Lohagad, also known as 'Fort of Steel', is a historical fortress located in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra. It was an important strategic point during the battles between the Maratha Empire and the British. The fort offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and hills, making it a popular destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Key attractions include the Chandragiri Caves and the Tiger’s Mouth viewpoint.
Loktak Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Northeast India, is a unique ecosystem located in Manipur. It is famous for its floating islands called 'phumdis', which are clusters of vegetation and soil that support diverse flora and fauna. The lake is also home to rare species of fish and birds, making it an important conservation site.
Nestled in the Baramulla district near Gurez, Lolab Valley is a serene and picturesque destination surrounded by towering mountains. Known for its lush apple orchards and breathtaking landscapes, it offers an ideal setting for trekkers and nature enthusiasts seeking adventure and tranquility.
Lonar Crater Lake is a unique geological wonder in Maharashtra, India. It is the only natural soda lake in the country and one of the few such lakes in the world. Formed by a meteorite impact millions of years ago, Lonar Crater Lake is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a fascinating insight into Earth's ancient history.
Lonavala is a picturesque hill station nestled in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra, known for its lush greenery and pleasant climate. It offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Popular attractions include the Tiger’s Cave with its intricate carvings, the Bhairaveshwar Temple, and numerous trekking trails.
Lothal is one of the most prominent archaeological sites in India, belonging to the Indus Valley Civilization. It is located near Bhagwanpur village in the Sabarkantha district of Gujarat. The site is famous for its well-planned city layout, including a dockyard, houses with advanced drainage systems, and numerous artifacts that provide insights into the daily life of the ancient inhabitants.
