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 Upper Subansiri district of Arunachal Pradesh, Parashuram Kund is a revered hot spring known for its religious significance, particularly during the annual Parashuram Mela. Surrounded by picturesque mountainous terrain, this sacred site attracts pilgrims and tourists alike, offering a unique blend of spiritual and natural beauty.
The Parvati Valley, nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, is a serene and picturesque valley known for its lush green meadows, snow-capped mountains, and vibrant culture. It is a major starting point for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra and offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan ranges. The valley is dotted with quaint villages, apple orchards, and numerous temples, making it a perfect destination for both adventure seekers and spiritual pilgrims.
A revered gurdwara and one of the five Kumbhakshatriyas, Patna Sahib is a significant site for Sikhs. It stands as a testament to the rich Sikh heritage in India.
Nestled in the Pir Panjal Range of the Himalayas, Patnitop is a picturesque hill station known for its serene beauty and adventure activities. It serves as a gateway to higher peaks like Chakrabadri and is surrounded by lush forests and meadows. The town offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and is a favorite spot for trekkers and adventure enthusiasts. It also houses several temples, adding to its cultural significance.
Pattadakal is a historic temple town in Karnataka, India, known for its exquisite Dravidian-style temples. It was once the capital of the Rashtrakutas and later the Chalukyas, and it features a unique blend of North Indian Nagara style and South Indian Dravidian architecture. The site includes ten temples dedicated to various deities, showcasing intricate carvings and inscriptions. Pattadakal is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites under the group 'Group of Monuments at Pattadakal'.
Nestled in the Sahyadri Hills, Pawna Lake is a picturesque destination known for its serene beauty and vibrant marine life. It's a hotspot for adventure enthusiasts with activities like boating and trekking, and it offers stunning views of nearby waterfalls.
Pemayangtse Monastery is one of the oldest and most sacred monasteries in Sikkim, located in Pelling. It was established by the renowned lama Drupgya Chosjung in 1700. The monastery is famous for its statue of Guru Padmasambhava and houses a rich collection of Tibetan Buddhist art and scriptures.
Pench National Park is one of the most picturesque national parks in India, located in the southern part of Madhya Pradesh. It forms a significant part of the Kanha-Pench Tiger Reserve and is known for its dense forests, diverse wildlife, and stunning natural landscapes. The park offers a unique opportunity to witness the rich biodiversity of central India, including tigers, gaurs, wild elephants, sambar deer, and various species of birds.
The Pichavaram Mangrove Forest is one of the largest and most diverse mangrove forests in India, situated along the east coast within the Godavari delta. This unique forest is a vital ecological reserve near Kozhikode, Tamil Nadu, renowned for its rich biodiversity and significance in conservation efforts.
Pinjore Gardens is a popular hill station in Haryana, nestled in the Shivalik Hills. It offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys, with lush greenery and vibrant flower gardens. The site also provides opportunities for adventure activities like trekking and rock climbing, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike.
