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India

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Pillayarpatti Karpaga Vinayagar Temple by Indrani Ghose

Guide to Pillayarpatti Karpaga Vinayagar Temple, History and Secrets

Explore Pillayarpatti Karpaga Vinayagar Temple, one of Tamil Nadu’s oldest rock-cut shrines. From Pandya-era origins and Nagarathar heritage to the six-foot Valampuri Ganesha and mysterious cave inscriptions, this guide covers history, secrets, and practical travel details for the Madurai–Karaikudi–Chettinad circuit.

Guide to Indian Festivals in April by Indrani Ghose

Indian Festivals in April 2026: Dates, Calendar & Long Weekend Guide

April 2026 in India is filled with vibrant festivals, harvest celebrations, and long weekends. From Baisakhi at Amritsar’s Golden Temple to Vishu in Kerala and Akshaya Tritiya muhurat, this guide covers dates, rituals, and travel opportunities. Perfect for planning holidays, family trips, and auspicious events.

Mythical founder, Sala, stabbing a lion-like creature with a dagger - Emblem of Hoysala Empire

Hoysala Architecture of Karnataka’s Hidden Marvels

Discover the Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas—UNESCO-listed temples at Belur, Halebidu, and Somanathapura—alongside hidden gems like Javagal, Belavadi, and Arasikere. A practical guide to decoding friezes, planning road trips, and photographing Karnataka’s medieval masterpieces.

Chennakesava Temple Somnathpur Mysore

Ultimate Guide to Chennakesava Temple, Somanathapura: A Hoysala Masterpiece

Discover the Chennakesava Temple at Somnathapura, a UNESCO listed Hoysala masterpiece. Explore its trikuta sanctums, star shaped plan, soapstone carvings, and the mystery of the missing Keshava idol.

Lakshminarasimha-Temple-Javagal-exteriors

Lakshmi Narasimha Temple Javagal: A 13th-Century Hoysala Masterpiece Near Chikmagalur

Visit Lakshmi Narasimha Temple Javagal Hoysala Architecture of Hassan district,15km from Halebeedu. Finely sculpted facade in good condition!

Forest of Lathe Turned pillars Belavadi Temple

Veeranarayana Temple Belavadi: A 2026 Guide to the Hoysala Marvel

Most travelers rushing between Bangalore and Chikmagalur miss one of Karnataka’s finest Hoysala temples. The Veeranarayana Temple at Belavadi deserves...

Guide to Lakshmi Devi Temple of Doddagaddavalli Hassan

A Complete Guide to Lakshmi Devi Temple, Doddagaddavalli Hassan

Explore the Lakshmi Devi Temple at Doddagaddavalli, the earliest Hoysala shrine. Learn about its rare Chatuskuta style, Kadamba Nagara shikhara, and unique patronage.

Jog Falls Travel Guide 2026: Hidden Viewpoints and Pro Tips

Jog Falls Travel Guide 2026: Explore Karnataka’s iconic waterfall with the latest updates on the Waterfall Circuit, Sharavathi Adventure Camp, best time to visit, 1,400-step descent, stay options, and hidden viewpoints. Perfect for photographers, solo travelers, and family itineraries.

International

Check out where I've been across the globe
Things to Do in Kamakura

Top Things to Do in Kamakura on a Day Trip from Tokyo (2026)

Plan the perfect Kamakura day trip in 2026. Explore Kotoku-in, Hase-dera, Tsurugaoka Hachimangu, hidden temples, samurai history, and the Enoden Line journey.

Casual Street Dining Scene in Taiwan

How to Make the Most of Your Food-Focused Trip: A Guide to Culinary Travel

If you’re the kind of traveller who plans trips around meals instead of landmarks, you’re in good company. A food-focused...

Guide to Major Festivals in March by Indrani

Ultimate Guide to Major Festivals in March 2026: Global Dates and Cultural Traditions

March 2026 brings together some of the world’s most vibrant cultural celebrations. Holi transforms India into a canvas of colors...

When is kali Puja

When is Kali Puja 2026? Guide to West Bengal’s Divine Festival

Discover when Kali Puja 2026 falls and experience West Bengal's most mystical celebration. Learn about the exact date (November 08, 2026), midnight worship timings, and unique Bengali traditions like Bhoot Chaturdashi. From Kalighat Temple to Kolkata's stunning pandals, explore where to witness this fierce goddess festival that transforms the City of Joy into a spiritual wonderland. Complete guide with temple locations, cultural significance, and practical tips for first-time visitors.

20 Best Things to Do in Sintra Portugal 2025 – Expert Guide

If you guessed that our visit to Sintra was for the kids, you’re absolutely right! This charming Portuguese town was...

what to buy from Portugal - guide by Indrani Ghose

What to Buy in Portugal: 21+ Authentic Souvenirs and Gifts to Bring Home

During my Portugal travels, one thing that charmed me most was exploring the Portuguese markets for their delightful souvenirs. Believe...

Colorful Family Room at Evora Inn Chiado Hotel

Evora Inn Chiado Design Hotel Review: A Family Stay

Wonderful stay in Evora Inn Chiado Design hotel. Very ideally located at one end of Giraldo Square, within walking distance of all sights

BEST Things to Do in Elvas, Portugal

Starting my Portugal Travel stories with my trip to Elvas town. Elvas is about 15 km west of the Spanish...

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UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Ticking them off, one World Heritage Site at a time
Mythical founder, Sala, stabbing a lion-like creature with a dagger - Emblem of Hoysala Empire

Hoysala Architecture of Karnataka’s Hidden Marvels

Discover the Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas—UNESCO-listed temples at Belur, Halebidu, and Somanathapura—alongside hidden gems like Javagal, Belavadi, and Arasikere. A practical guide to decoding friezes, planning road trips, and photographing Karnataka’s medieval masterpieces.

King's Balance Hampi

King’s Balance in Hampi – Legend, Architecture, Timings

The first time I stood before the King’s Balance in Hampi, I tried to imagine the scene it once hosted—a...

Virupaksha Temple Pattadakal

Visiting Pattadakal Group of Monuments: History and Temple Guide

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Pattadakal in Karnataka—temples, history, and a perfect one-day itinerary with Aihole and Badami. Plan your visit now!

Mondego River view from Coimbra University Tower

Things to Do in Amazing Coimbra Portugal

Discover the best things to do in Coimbra, Portugal — from UNESCO-listed university halls to soulful fado performances. This guide blends personal travel insights with expert tips on historical landmarks, cultural venues, and hidden gems. Perfect for travelers seeking depth, beauty, and authenticity in one of Portugal’s most storied cities.

The Nabão River and the old bridge

20 Things to Do in Tomar Portugal: Complete Guide

Did you know that the quiet Portuguese town of Tomar was once the beating heart of the Knights Templar —...

Guide to Templar City Tomar Portugal

Tomar’s Knights Templar Fortress: Complete Guide to the Convent of Christ and Tomar Castle

Discover the Convent of Christ in Tomar, Portugal. Explore the Knights Templar Fortress & the stunning Manueline Chapter House Window. Get history, facts, and essential visitor tips.

Batalha Monastery Portugal

Ultimate Guide to Batalha Monastery, Portugal: History, Architecture, and Your Perfect Visit

Batalha Monastery in Portugal is an incomplete monastery, yet in its incomplete state the monastery is incredible!

Alcobaca Monastery-Designated World Heritage Site since 1989

Alcobaça Monastery Tombs: Portugal’s Most Romantic Gothic Masterpiece

The Tombs of D. Pedro I and D. Inês de Castro My curiosity about the story of tombs of Pedro...

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