Travel

India’s Pride: UNESCO Sites of India

India is a great country with a rich heritage. The grandeur of our past is irreplaceable and an inspiration to us. It is our responsibility to ensure we pass on the cultural heritage to our future generations. There are many architectural wonders across the country which were built by great kings, queens, and spiritual people. Only a few of them have been identified by UNESCO because of their historical and cultural values. We list them all here.

1)Ellora Caves

The Ellora Caves are one of the most popular World Heritage sites in India. It is one of the largest rock-cut caves in the world, featuring Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain monuments dating back to 600-1000CE. There are 34 temples and monuments which extend over 2 km.

Location: Ellora, Maharashtra

Timings: 6 AM-6 PM

3)Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal is one of the seven wonders of the world. It is an immense monument made up of white marble, built in Agra on the banks of the river Yamuna. The Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan dedicated this monument to the memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Begum. Millions of tourists from across the world visit this beautiful place every year.

Location: Agra, Uttar Pradesh

Timings: 6 AM-7 PM

4)Khajuraho

Khajuraho is a popular UNESCO site in India, known for its elegant temples built in the period of the Chandela Dynasty. The temples at this place strike a perfect between the magnificent Nagara-style architecture and the distinguished sculptures of deities.

Location: Madhya Pradesh

Timings: 8 AM-6 PM

5)Hampi

Hampi is the city of temples, ancient forts, and other monuments. Located at the banks of the river Tungabhadra, many popular temples tell us different stories about the Hampi’s cultural legacy. Some of the popular places in Hampi are Virupaksha Temple, Elephant Stables, Vittala Temple, and the Statue of Ugra Narasimha.

6)Qutub Minar

Qutub Minar is one of the oldest and tallest monuments in India. Built in the 13^th century, the Qutub Minar stands at a height of 238 feet and was made with red sandstone. The popular rust-resistant iron pillar belonging to the Gupta Dynasty is in the mosque premises. The Qutub Minar and other monuments next to it were inscribed in the list of World Heritage Sites in 1993.

Location: Mehrauli, Delhi

Timings: 7 AM-5 PM

7)Ramappa Temple

The latest addition to the list of UNESCO World Heritage sites is the Ramappa Temple or the Kakatiya Rudreshwara Temple. The temple was built with sandstone during the Kakatiyan Period. Garnished beams, granite carved pillars and a unique inner sanctum made with lightweight bricks are the highlights of the temple. The main deity of the temple is Lord Shiva and there are other small temples surrounding the main temple.

Location: Ramappa, Mulugu, Telangana

Timings: 6AM-6PM

8)Kaziranga National Park

The Kaziranga National Park is a great place to witness natural wildlife. It is located in the state of Assam. The National Park was added as a World Heritage Site in 1985. This beautifully protected park is home to tigers, elephants, one-horned Indian rhinoceroses, panthers, bears, and rare migratory birds. Tourists can visit this place from November to April.

Location: Kanchanjuri, Assam

Timings: 24hours (November to April)

9)Rani Ki Vav

Rani Ki Vav or the Queen’s Stepwell is located on the banks of the Saraswati river. This unique monument is used as a water resource and storage system. The place is designed in the form of an inverted temple divided into seven levels of stairs surrounded by different combinations of mythological and religious sculptures. UNESCO added this beautiful masterpiece to its heritage site list in 2014.

Location: Patan, Gujarat

Timings: 8 AM-7 PM

10)Humayun’s Tomb

Humayun’s Tomb is the first-ever historical monument to introduced the ‘garden tomb’ concept to India. The place was built in the 16^th century by Mirak Mirza Ghiyath for the Mughal Emperor Humayun. This magnificent tomb is surrounded by a marvellous charbagh garden with pools. The monument was an inspiration to Shah Jahan when constructing the Taj Mahal. In 1993, UNESCO included this place in its list.

Location: Delhi, India

Timings: 6 AM-6 PM

11)Ajanta Caves

The Ajanta Caves are one of the popular spots in Maharashtra. They are the perfect example of the brilliance of historical architecture. They were started by Sathahavans and more caves were added by the Gupta Dynasty. The Ajanta caves are the first-ever cave monuments of Buddhists which date back to the 1^st and 2^nd centuries. There are many magnificent paintings and sculptures which are considered as the masterpieces of Buddhist art.

Location: Maharashtra

Timings: 9 AM-5 PM

12)Great Living Chola Temples

The Great Living Chola Temples are stretched over the Tamil Nadu region. The Brihadisvara Temple at Thanjavur and the Airavatesvara Temple at Darasuram were built during the Chola Dynasty. These popular temples are recognized by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites because they depict the Chola style of architecture, paintings, and sculptures.

Location: Tamil Nadu

Timings: 8:30 AM-9 PM

These are some of the popular UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India. Other popular sites for visits in India include Fatherpur Sikri, Agra Fort, Elephanta Caves, Sundarban Park, Mahabodhi Temple, and others. All of these architectural wonders have a great history and they are the pride of our nation.

March 23, 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

India’s diverse landscape offers stunning destinations year-round, with Udaipur standing out as a winter gem. Known as the “City of Lakes,” it captivates visitors with its breath-taking lakes, grand palaces, and rich cultural heritage. Join SAMBHAVI GAUTAM on a journey through Udaipur’s must-visit spots, famous lakes, and top hotels to make the most of your trip. Nestled in the Aravalli Hills, Udaipur attracts travellers with its serene landscapes, royal architecture, and vibrant markets. Its temples, forts, and museums add to its historical charm, while stunning lakes like Pichola and Fateh Sagar enhance its beauty, making it a perfect blend of nature and culture. THINGS TO DO THINGS TO REMEMBER THINGS TO DO- It is a beautiful garden that is in the northern part of the city and has fountains and kiosks, a lotus pool and marble elephants. This garden was laid for a group of 48 maidens by Maharana Sangram Singh for royal ladies who accompanied the queen after marriage to Udaipur. THINGS TO DO- THINGS TO DO- Artificial freshwater lake located in Udaipur, which was created in the 14th century. It spans approximately 4 square kilometres and is surrounded by picturesque hills, temples, palaces, and Ghats. The lake is famous for its serene beauty and its reflection of the historic City Palace, Jag Mandir, and the Lake Palace, which appears to float on its waters. THINGS TO DO- This is one of the best hotels located on Lake Pichola in Udaipur, Rajasthan. Built in the 16th century, it was initially conceived as a retreat for Maharana Jagat Singh I. The palace features exquisite marble and sandstone architecture, with beautiful courtyards, gardens, and intricate carvings. It offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding areas, making it a popular destination for tourists and a symbol of royal grandeur. THINGS TO

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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