Travel

Ancient Cities Of India

India has been ruled by several dynasties and kingdoms throughout history. The ancient cities in India have aged delightfully with time. Visiting ancient cities in India will bring you an insight into the architectural marvels, and fascinating stories which have shaped our country’s culture, and glorious past. Now let us travel back in time and explore the ancient cities that are an inspiration to modern cities.

Varanasi

Varanasi also called the City of Lights, or Temples is a sacred city located on the bank of the river Ganga. It is one of the oldest cities in India, dating back to more than 5,000 years. Today Varanasi is a busy city and an important religious destination for devotees across the globe. Experience the mesmerizing event- Ganga Aarti and visit temples that date back to 1,000-1,500 years old. You can also visit Sarnath which is just 10 kms from Varanasi, it is a popular place where Gautama Buddha preached his first words.

**Best time to visit:** November to February.

Madurai

Madurai is one of the most popular ancient cities in India which dates back to 4,000 years. There are many temples here, among which Madhurai Meenakshi Amman Temple is the most sacred place. The temple was constructed by Pandayan Emperor Sadayavarman Kulasekaran and it is an architectural wonder. Located close to the Meenakshi Temple, Samanar Hill is a first-century cavern that was once used by Jain priests. You can also visit Koodal Azhagar Temple which is considered the abode of Lord Vishnu. Madurai is not only popular for its tradition, but also for its tasty food like Murugan Idli Kadai, Crispy Golden Dosas, Kola Urundai, and Kalkandu Sadam.

**Best time to visit:** December to February.

Ayodhya

Ayodhya is a popular place known for the old Hindu epic Ramayana. Ayodhya is also called the birthplace of Lord Rama. The city is located on the banks of the Sarayu River and it was established by God Manu. It is believed that Ayodhya dates back to 9,000 years. The place will become more popular in the coming days as the Ayodhya Ram Temple is being built on a grand scale. Apart from that, there are some popular tourist spots in the city which are Treta Ke Thakur, Guptar Ghat (the place where Lord Rama is believed to have drowned himself), and Kanak Bhavan.

**Best time to visit:** July to September.

Ujjain

Ujjain is home to many old and new temples. It is an important religious place in India with many Hindu temples located on the banks of the River Shipra. The place became a prominent political center in 600 BCE, Ujjain is also the place where three rivers meet (River Sarswati, River Shipra, and River Kahn), this is called Triveni Sangham. Some of the popular places to visit in Ujjain are Mahakaleshwar Temple which is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, Kark Rajeshwar Temple, and it is also believed that taking a dip in the River Shipra will free an individual from all sins.

**Best time to visit:** October to March

Thanjavur

Thanjavur is one of the most beautiful cities in India. It rose to popularity during the Chola’s reign when they made this city their capital. Thanjavur was the cultural and heritage city of India during the 18th century, and today this city is called the Rice Bowl Of South India. The city is the home to Brihadeeswarar Temple which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site constructed by Raja Chola I. Other popular tourist spots in Thanjavur are Saraswathi Mahal Library, Thanjavur Maratha Palace, Royal Palace Museum, and Schwartz Church. Thanjavur is also popular for its paintings and dolls.

Dwarka

Dwarka City located in the state of Gujarat is a famous Hindu Pilgrimage site. The place is popular for the Dwarkadheesh Temple which was built on the banks of the Gomti Creek. Dwarka resonates with the holy chants of Hare Krishna, and people still worship Lord Krishna as their king. The other popular tourist spots in Dwarka are Nageshwar Jyotirlinga, and you can go on a boat ride to Beyt Dwarka Island, and witness the architectural marvel of the Rukmini Temple.

Hampi

Hampi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site popular for its stone temples and ancient ruins. Hampi was once the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire and the city became popular during the reign of Sri Krishnadevaraya. During those glorious days, Hampi was the wealthiest city in India. Some of the temples are in ruins which happened during the Battle of Talikota, followed by the massive destruction of Hampi. Enjoy the sunrise and sunset over ancient ruins and learn interesting facts about ancient sculptures, and architecture.

Delhi

The history of Delhi dates back to the Mughal Dynasty. As per the mythology, Delhi was once the capital of Pandavas, earlier it was called Indraprastha. Five dynasties ruled Delhi and the history of the capital city is glorious. Here you can visit some popular places like Akshardham Temple, explore the largest spice market Chandni Chowk, and visit temple Hanuman Temple and Gauri Shankar Temple.

Conclusion: These are some of the known ancient cities in India. Visit any of these places and get insight into the rich culture and heritage of marvellous India.

September 28, 2022

From Rishikesh to Rameswaram: Spiritual Retreats for Gen Z

Many Gen Zs are turning inward in a world buzzing with digital noise, seeking solace and meaning beyond screens. India’s spiritual retreats offer a unique blend of ancient wisdom and contemporary practices, providing the perfect escape for young souls yearning for connection, mindfulness, and adventure. From the serene banks of the Ganges in Rishikesh to the sacred shores of Rameswaram, Dhanush Kumar embarks on a transformative journey that resonates with the modern seeker. 1. Rishikesh- Yoga Capital of the world Nestled in the Himalayan foothills, Rishikesh is renowned for its yoga and meditation centres. Ashrams like Parmarth Niketan and Sivananda offer immersive programs that blend ancient practices with modern needs. These retreats provide Gen Zs with tools to manage stress, enhance mindfulness, and foster deeper connection with themselves. Don’t miss: 2. Dharmshala-Tibetan Spirituality Dharamshala is home to the Dalai Lama and offers a unique blend of Tibetan Buddhism and Indian spirituality. Retreats here focus on meditation, compassion, and mindfulness, providing young travellers with a serene environment to explore inner peace amidst the majestic Himalayas. Don’t miss: 3. Varanasi- The Spiritual Heartbeat of India As one of the oldest living cities, Varanasi offers a profound spiritual experience. Witnessing the Ganga Aarti, exploring ancient temples, and participating in meditation sessions along the Ghats allow Gen Z travellers to immersive themselves in India’s rich spiritual heritage. Don’t miss: 4. Rameswaram- Sacred Shores and Soulful Reflections Located at the southern tip of India, Rameswaram is a significant pilgrimage site. The town’s tranquil beaches and historic temples provide a peaceful setting for introspection and spiritual growth, making it an ideal retreat for those seeking a deeper connection with their inner selves. Don’t miss: 5. Kanha Shanti Vanam- Modern Spiritual Oasis Situated near Hyderabad, Kanha Shanti Vanam is the headquarters of the Heartfulness Institute. This retreat

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UDAIPUR AND ALL THE BEST PLACES TO VISIT

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God’s Own Country Awaits: The Best Places to Visit in Kerala This Season

Edged by the Arabian Sea to the west and the Western Ghats to the east, Kerala is rightly called God’s Own Country. January and February are the best months to visit, offering pleasant weather and an escape from the state’s extreme heat and monsoon rains. From serene backwaters to lush hills, Kerala is a tropical paradise waiting to be explored. Join SAMBHAVI GAUTAM in discovering its breath taking landscapes, and you might just add Kerala to your travel bucket list. Kerala’s diverse attractions span from cultural landmarks to pristine natural beauty. This journey through the state begins in Ernakulam, centrally located, and extends south to Poovar Island, offering a seamless travel route. Each destination has been chosen for its accessibility, ensuring a convenient and enriching experience for every traveller. THINGS TO DO- (1-2 Days) 2) Alappuzha – The smallest district of Kerala, Alappuzha, known as “The Venice of the East,” is a perfect New Year getaway with its scenic network of canals, lagoons, and lakes. While there’s plenty to explore, creating a priority list will help you make the most of your experience. THINGS TO DO – (1 -2 days) Experience the splendid sight of the glowing sun passing through the calm waters of the Ashtamudi Lake which is the prominent attraction of the town. Asthamudi town signifies a total eight islands which jointly contribute to be a significant part of the wetland ecosystem in the area. The town is best for escaping the city rush during the vacations and experiencing the biodiversity featuring mangroves and avian species. THINGS TO DO – (1 DAY) Kovalam beach (95 kms from Ashtamudi towards south) If you love beaches and want to enjoy the sand and the sea, Varkala and Kovalam beaches are your spots! THINGS TO DO- (1 DAY) Located in Thiruvananthapuram

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Why Finland is the Happiest and Smartest Country

Finland consistently ranks as one of the happiest and most intelligent countries in the world. It has been crowned the world’s happiest country in the United Nations’ World Happiness Report for several years in a row. Additionally, Finland is known for its outstanding education system, high literacy rates, and innovative thinking. The country’s unique combination of social policies, education system, work-life balance, and connection to nature contributes to its exceptional well-being and intellectual prowess. Hashtag Magazine explores the key factors that make Finland both the happiest and smartest country in the world. 1. The Finnish Education System: A Model of Excellence Finland’s education system is regarded as one of the best in the world. Unlike many countries that emphasize standardized testing and long school hours, Finland takes a different approach. Finnish students enjoy a relaxed and student-centric learning environment that fosters curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking. A. Minimal Homework and No Standardized Tests One of the most striking aspects of Finnish education is the lack of standardized tests. Instead of relying on high-pressure exams, teachers assess students through continuous evaluation. This approach allows children to focus on deep learning rather than memorization. Additionally, Finnish students receive minimal homework, allowing them to have a better balance between academics and personal life. B. Highly Trained Teachers Teachers in Finland are respected professionals, much like doctors or lawyers. Becoming a teacher requires a master’s degree, and only the top graduates are selected for teaching positions. The rigorous training ensures that teachers are well-equipped to handle diverse learning needs and create an engaging classroom environment. C. Equal Opportunities for All Education in Finland is free, from preschool to university, ensuring equal access to learning regardless of socio-economic background. Schools do not compete with one another, and there are no rankings. Instead, the focus is