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.
Shivanasamudra Falls, one of the highest waterfalls in Karnataka, plunges down a massive cliff creating a breathtaking cascade. Located near Hassan, this stunning waterfall is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
Shivneri Fort is a hill fortress located near Junnar in the Nashik district of Maharashtra, India. It holds historical significance as it is believed to be the birthplace of Shivaji Maharaj, the founder of the Maratha Empire. The fort is perched on a hilltop and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Its strategic location made it an important military outpost during the medieval period.
Shravanabelagola is a renowned pilgrimage site in Karnataka, famous for its massive monolithic statue of Lord Bahubali. It holds significant religious importance in the Jaina community and showcases intricate carvings from the 13th century.
Shringeri Sharada Peetham is an ancient temple dedicated to Goddess Sharadha or Amba, one of the 51 Shaktipithas in India. Located in the Uttara Kannada district, it is a sacred site for Hindus and known for its vibrant festivals like Navdurga and Shivaratri. The temple features unique architecture blending Dravidian and Nagara styles and houses an idol of Goddess Sharadha made of chlorite stone, attracting pilgrims seeking blessings.
Silent Valley National Park, established in 1980, is the first national park of Kerala and a part of the Western Ghats, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It offers lush greenery, diverse flora, and fauna, making it a haven for nature lovers. The park includes the iconic Silent Lake, surrounded by dense forests, and provides opportunities for trekking, bird watching, and exploring the rich biodiversity of the region.
The Simhachalam Temple is one of the most famous temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu in Andhra Pradesh, India. It is located near the Tungabhadra River and is renowned for housing Salagramam beads, which are considered highly sacred by devotees. The temple has a rich historical significance and showcases intricate Dravidian architecture.
Simlipal National Park is one of the most picturesque and bio-diverse national parks in India, located in the northern part of Odisha. It is part of the Similipal Biosphere Reserve and is known for its dense forests, unique geological formations, and rich wildlife. The park is a haven for nature lovers, offering opportunities for trekking, bird watching, and exploring the diverse flora and fauna of the region.
The Sittanavasal Caves are ancient rock-cut monasteries located in Tamil Nadu, India.Dating back to the 8th century CE, these caves were carved into the hills by Buddhist monks and serve as a testament to the region's rich spiritual heritage.Nestled amidst lush greenery and tea plantations, the Sittanavasal Caves offer a serene retreat for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.The site features intricate carvings and inscriptions, providing valuable insights into the cultural and religious practices of ancient Tamil Nadu.These caves are part of the larger network of monasteries that flourished along the trade routes between South India and Sri Lanka during the medieval period.
Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, Solan is a picturesque town in Himachal Pradesh known for its lush greenery and vibrant culture. It is famously called the 'Mushroom Town' due to its rich diversity of wild mushrooms. The town offers breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, dense forests, and quaint rural landscapes, making it a haven for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike.
Somnath Temple is one of the most revered shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in Somnath city near Junagadh, Gujarat. It is among the 12 Jyotirlingas and holds immense historical and cultural significance.
