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 Agonda region of Varkala Taluk, Dhanushkodi is a picturesque coastal village renowned for its pristine beaches and serene atmosphere. It offers activities like water sports, surfing, and fishing, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and backpackers seeking an offbeat travel experience.
Dholavira is one of the largest and most significant Indus Valley (Harappan) sites in India, showcasing advanced urban planning. Located in the Bhavnagar district of Gujarat, it features intricate water management systems, granaries, and evidence of a well-organized city layout.
Dibru-Saikhowa National Park is a wildlife haven in Assam, India, located along the Brahmaputra River. It is known for its rich biodiversity and is home to various species of flora and fauna, including elephants, tigers, gaurs, and migratory birds. The park offers excellent opportunities for bird watching and boat rides on the river.
Nestled at an elevation of 2,134 meters in the Kumaon Himalayas, Binsar is a charming hill station offering cool climes and stunning views. Surrounded by dense forests, it's a haven for nature enthusiasts and trekkers, with routes like Valley of Flowers and Roopkund nearby. The vibrant rhododendron blooms during spring add to its allure, making it ideal for adventure-seekers and honeymooners alike.
Chitrakoot is a picturesque hill station nestled in the valleys of the Vindhya and Satavara hills, spanning Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. Known for its lush forests, serene waterfalls like Dhobi Waterfall, ancient temples such as Kalyana Temple and Sita Gufa, and its connection to Lord Rama's exile, Chitrakoot offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and spiritual significance.
Coorg, also known as Kodagu, is a picturesque hill station in Karnataka, India. Known for its lush green landscapes, rolling hills covered with coffee plantations and spice estates, Coorg offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. The region is famous for the traditional Kodava culture, the monsoon forests of Abbi Falls, and the wildlife reserves like Monsoon Forest. Coorg is often referred to as the 'Scotland of India' due to its stunning landscapes.
Dapoli is a charming coastal town in Maharashtra, famous for its pristine beaches like Vashist Beach and the nearby Dattatreya Temple. It offers a mix of natural beauty and spiritual significance, making it a popular destination for both leisure and pilgrimage.
Horsley Hills is a hill station located in Andhra Pradesh, India, known for its scenic beauty and trekking trails. It offers breathtaking views of coffee plantations and misty mountains, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers.
Nestled in the breathtaking landscape of Meghalaya, Laitlum Canyons are a haven for nature enthusiasts. Known as the Grand Canyon of the East, these canyons offer dramatic cliffs and lush greenery. Visitors can enjoy thrilling trekking experiences and explore nearby waterfalls, making it a must-visit natural wonder near Shillong.
Lakshadweep, a group of 36 stunning islands in the Arabian Sea, offers pristine white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters teeming with vibrant marine life, and rich cultural heritage. The capital, Kavaratti, is a hub for tourists seeking tropical paradise experiences.
