Every year, as the monsoon clouds part and the fragrance of tulsi and jasmine fills temple courtyards across India, millions of devotees prepare to celebrate the birth of Lord Krishna, the playful cowherd, the divine statesman, the eternal beloved, Janmashtami is more than a festival, it is a nationwide outpouring of devotion, music, and midnight joy, marking the moment Krishna was born in a Mathura prison cell over 5,000 years ago. While Krishna’s story unfolds across the length and breadth of India, a handful of temples stand out not just for their spiritual significance, but for their sheer visual splendour. Marble carvings that seem to breathe, gold-plated domes that catch the sunrise, silver windows through which only a sliver of the deity is visible. This Janmashtami, Dhanush Kumar writes about eight of India’s most beautiful Krishna temples worth adding to your pilgrimage list. Banke Bihari Temple, Vrindavan: Tucked into the narrow lanes of Vrindavan, Banke Bihari is famous for its curtained deity; the eyes of Banke Bihari are considered so powerful that the curtain is drawn and redrawn constantly to prevent devotees from being overwhelmed. On Janmashtami, the temple performs its once-a-year Mangala Aarti at dawn, drawing enormous crowds who believe witnessing it wards off financial hardship. Prem Mandir, Vrindavan: Built entirely from Italian marble, Prem Mandir is arguably the most photogenic Krishna temple in India. Every surface is carved with scenes from Krishna’s life, and the temple’s evening fountain and light show transform the complex into a shimmering spectacle. During Janmashtami, the grounds glow with thousands of lamps, making it a favourite for both pilgrims and photographers. Dwarkadhish Temple, Dwarka, Gujarat: Perched on the banks of the Gomti River where it meets the Arabian Sea, this temple marks the site of Krishna’s legendary kingdom. Its soaring five-story spire, visible

Sanya Batra is a Delhi-based travel content creator and storyteller who traded a decade-long corporate career for a life driven by exploration and creativity. With experience across marketing, sales, innovation, and entrepreneurship, Sanya brings a unique perspective to travel storytelling. Through her content, she goes beyond showcasing destinations, sharing experiences of personal growth, cultural discoveries, and the transformative impact of stepping outside one’s comfort zone. Her journey inspires others to embrace independence, pursue their passions, and create a life that feels truly fulfilling. 1. Thailand — A Destination for Every Kind of Traveller “Thailand holds a special place in my heart because it offers the perfect balance of adventure, relaxation, culture, and discovery.” From pristine beaches and scenic mountains to thrilling activities, vibrant nightlife, luxury experiences, and incredible local cuisine, Thailand has something for every traveller. As a solo female traveller, I also find Thailand to be one of the safest and most accessible destinations, making it an ideal choice for those looking to explore independently while experiencing a warm and welcoming culture. 2. Switzerland — A Real-Life Postcard “Switzerland feels like stepping into a dream. The snow-covered mountains, charming villages, crystal-clear lakes, and breathtaking train journeys make every moment feel magical.” What makes Switzerland truly special is its beauty in every season. Whether surrounded by winter landscapes or exploring its lush summer countryside, every corner offers a picture-perfect experience. It is a destination that captures the imagination and leaves you with memories that feel almost unreal. 3. Spiti Valley, India — A Journey of Transformation “Spiti Valley is unlike any other destination I have experienced. Raw, rugged, and untouched, it offers a sense of adventure and introspection that stays with you long after the journey ends.” From dramatic mountain landscapes and ancient monasteries to remote villages and endless star-filled

From life-changing solo trips to journeys that built lasting human connections, travel means something different to everyone. We spoke to four travel creators who have shaped their lives around exploration, asking them to share the destinations that left the deepest impact on them: places that inspired growth, freedom, resilience, and a renewed way of seeing the world. Sneha Layek & Ranjan Simkhada | Tezpur, Assam Sneha and Ranjan are a travel-loving couple from Tezpur, Assam, driven by a shared passion for exploration, storytelling, and meaningful experiences. They believe in the art of slow travel: taking the time to connect with local cultures, communities, and the true essence of every destination. Ranjan is a filmmaker and photographer who captures their journeys through a visual storytelling lens, while Sneha, a government school teacher, creates thoughtful travel content inspired by their experiences. Together, they explore destinations beyond the usual tourist trails, focusing on authentic connections, local stories, and immersive travel experiences. 1.Indonesia — A Destination of Endless Discoveries “Indonesia is a place we can return to endlessly and still find something new every time.” From pristine beaches and powerful waterfalls to ancient temples, lush valleys, and volcanic landscapes, the country offers an incredible variety of experiences. Whether exploring its natural wonders, diving into its vibrant marine life, or discovering its rich cultural traditions, every journey feels unique. What makes Indonesia truly special for us is the warmth of its people and the perfect balance it offers between adventure, culture, nature, and relaxation. 2.Nepal — Where the Mountains Feel Like Home “Nepal holds a very special place in our hearts because of our deep connection with the mountains.” The mighty Himalayas never fail to leave us speechless, no matter how many times we visit. Beyond its breathtaking landscapes, Nepal’s charm lies in its welcoming

Travel usually means ticking off monuments or finding the perfect beach, but there is a quieter, more rewarding way to see India, through its bookshelves. Bookstore Tourism is the art of slowing down, trading the chaos of the streets for the scent of old paper and the creak of wooden floorboards. In a world of digital scrolls, these physical spaces offer a sanctuary. They aren’t just shops; they are cultural anchors housed in heritage bungalows, 150-year-old mansions, and even on islands. Dhanush Kumar writes about the popular Indian bookstores that invite you to get lost in a labyrinth of stories. Kitab Khana, Mumbai Nestled in a 150-year-old building in the historic Fort area, Kitab Khana feels like a time capsule. With its soaring ceilings, Corinthian Columns, and floor-to-ceiling wooden shelves, it offers a majestic escape from Mumbai’s humidity. Find a corner by the tall windows and watch the world go by. The bookstore has a Subko coffee outlet inside, blending Mumbai’s best third-wave coffee with its most beautiful reading room. They have one of the best collections of Marathi and Gujarati books in the city. Literati Bookshop and Café, Goa Forget the beach parties for attention. Located in a lush, red-tiled Indo-Portuguese villa in Calangute, Literati is where the Slow Goa movement truly lives. Browse through sun-drenched rooms filled with second-hand treasures, then take your find out to the garden. It feels more like visiting a well-read friend’s home than a retail store. Keep an eye out for first-edition Goan history books or rare out-of-print paperbacks often tucked in the second-hand corners. Rachna Books, Gangtok Perched in the heart of the Himalayas, Rachna Books is a pilgrimage site for bibliophiles. It’s a family-run space that has won “Bookstore of the Year” awards for its curated collection and cultural impact. This