tourism

Recently, I had the opportunity to visit Varanasi and Bandhavgarh along with a group of Travel Agents from overseas. This was my first visit to both destinations, and they had been on my bucket list for quite some time. I am delighted to say that the experience exceeded all expectations and was truly worth the wait.

We arrived in Varanasi around lunchtime on the first day, where our hotel was the Taj Ganges, a beautiful 5-star hotel, not too far away from the old city and the ghats. After a couple of hours of rest at the hotel, we headed out for a sunset boat ride on the River Ganges, followed by the famous Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat. The boat ride offered a fascinating glimpse into life along the ghats. On one side, we witnessed devotees taking holy dips in the Ganges, performing rituals, and conducting pooja ceremonies. On the other, we observed funeral pyres burning at the cremation ghats. At one point, five or six cremations were taking place simultaneously. Our guide explained that Varanasi is unique in that cremations are performed around the clock, unlike most Hindu traditions where cremations are generally not conducted after sunset.

Following the boat ride, we disembarked at Dashashwamedh Ghat to witness the evening Ganga Aarti. It was truly an out-of-this-world experience. The beautifully choreographed ceremony, accompanied by chants, music, and synchronized rituals, lasted nearly three hours. The ghats were packed with visitors, and our guide mentioned that most of the crowd consisted of tourists rather than local residents. Nevertheless, it is an experience that everyone should witness at least once in their lifetime.

The following morning, we embarked on a dawn boat ride at around 4:30 am. This experience was completely different from the previous evening. The river was calm and peaceful, while devotees quietly performed their morning prayers and rituals. The serenity of the Ganges at sunrise was breathtaking. Adding to the magical atmosphere were musicians on board, whose melodious tunes perfectly complemented the tranquil surroundings.

After the boat ride, we disembarked at Manikarnika Ghat and began a walking tour through the old city. The narrow lanes were bustling with activity and offered a fascinating insight into the daily life of Varanasi. During the walk, we saw the Kashi Vishwanath Temple (one of the holiest shrines for Hindu devotees) from the outside. Long queues of devotees waited patiently for their turn to enter and offer prayers. As some members of our group were non-Hindus, we did not enter the temple and instead admired its significance from outside before returning to the hotel for breakfast.

We also visited Sarnath, which is an important Buddhist pilgrimage site where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. Visiting the museum and learning about the life and teachings of Buddha was a wonderful experience. Sarnath is undoubtedly a must-visit destination for anyone travelling to Varanasi.

The next morning, we departed for Bandhavgarh. The journey took approximately seven hours, thanks to the improved road conditions. Upon arrival, we checked into the Oberoi Vindhyavilas, which I believe is one of the finest and most luxurious properties in the region. The service, food, ambience, and overall hospitality were exceptional and among the best I have experienced anywhere.

The following day, we enjoyed two jungle safaris. Our morning safari in the Magadhi Zone did not bring us any tiger sightings, which was slightly disappointing. However, the afternoon safari in the Tala Zone more than made up for it. We were fortunate enough to spot four tigers, making the visit truly memorable and fulfilling the main purpose of our trip to Bandhavgarh.

The trip ended with the drive to Jabalpur Airport for the flight back to Delhi. As the trip came to an end, I reflected on the remarkable contrast between the spiritual energy of Varanasi and the wilderness of Bandhavgarh. Together, they offered a unique combination of culture, history, spirituality, and wildlife.

This journey was everything I had hoped for and more. If you are looking for an experience that combines India's rich spiritual heritage with its incredible natural beauty, I would highly recommend including both Varanasi and Bandhavgarh in your travel plans.

By Ashu Gupta, June 2026

Good news for shopaholics! Very soon, the Indian government will kick-start a pilot project for the repayment of goods and services tax or the GST paid by international tourists coming to India as part of a decision to execute a step that is there in the law.

Regarding the GST, it’s the Integrated GST Act that was enacted five years ago, and provides for refund on goods, which are to be taken out of the county by a tourist, who is not a resident of India, and has been in the country for not more than 6 months for non-immigrant purposes.

If reports are to go by, most countries follow a system of GST or VAT refund for tourists for consumption outside the country, as taxes are typically not exported, which is a principle followed in duty-free shops at airports as well.

Referring to this, government sources added that with the GST regime settling down, the Centre is in the process of setting up the said pilot, which will initially involve outlets, such as the Cottage Industries Emporium and, based on the experience, it will be expanded.

With regard to this, tax experts are of the view that several changes will be required to implement the said plan and that it will take time. To start with, even for a pilot, the rules to operationalise the project will need to be put in place, whereas the invoicing system will also require updating, which will likely require tweaking the GST Network architecture.
Experts added that the system needs to be foolproof to make sure there is no potential misuse. The machinery provisions to enable foreign tourists to claim a refund of the GST paid on eligible purchases of goods, should be drafted very carefully to ensure that there is no misuse of the provisions, while foreign tourists get a quick refund on their eligible purchases without too much paperwork, stated a professional in the know-how.

With November, winters knocks the door in most places in India. The northern frontiers are blessed with pure snowy breeze of the Himalayas while the southern places are blissful with the sun shining down is warmth. The plains and the forests are covered in a blanketed of fog that sets in the early evening and stays most of the daytime. The weather is just right to plan to go exploring India. Sightseeing becomes special with the temperatures just right.

Stay in the Lake Palace of Udaipur

Houseboat cruise on Kerala’s backwaters

Bird spotting in Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary

Chasing the Tiger Trail in the Tiger Reserves

Stay in the mountains enjoy view of snow-capped mountains

Bask in the sun at the beach resort

Heal your souls with Yoga and Ayurveda

Camping under the stars in a desert

Ride the Mountain Railways

Go on a food trail

Attend Dance and Music Festivals

Shopping is one of the under-rated pleasures of travelling in India. Shopping in India is one of the immersive experiences of the country. Just like the country itself, the markest are vibrant, bustling with enery, sometimes chaotic and often hospitable. On your holiday in India, do indulge in shopping. From handcrafted treasures to natural produce, rare craftsmanship to some budget bragins, there is a lot on offer.

Here Places for Shopping in India:

1. Jaipur

For anything traditional and ethnic, it has to be Jaipur. Mirror Work, tie and dyes, exuberant embroideries and just so much colour! Keep to traditional items, clothing and handicrafts, a bargain at bazaars, break for amazing street food and you are set. Maybe even buy some traditional puppets. Jaipur is undoubtedly one of the best shopping places in India.

When you are done pampering yourself, also hoard some beautiful, and mostly hand-painted and natural colour printed home decor goodies, from cushions, bed sheets to rajaais. Psst? Also great for wedding shopping in India!

What: Jewelry (Lac, Trinkets, Precious, Customized), Clothing (Traditional),  Footwear (Traditional Jaipuri Jootis), Handicrafts, Saris, Home Decor (Curtains, Bedspreads etc)

Top Places: Bapu Bazaar, Johri Bazaar, MI Road,

2. Delhi

If there is one place where you get the best of both traditional, ethnic and contemporary as well as budget street shopping and splurging designer labels, it is Delhi. The sheer variety on this city's list is amazing and this makes it one of the best place to buy clothes in India. Connaught place and Janpath Market are essentials. Don't miss Sarojini Nagar and Lajpat Nagar if you are interested street shopping and clothing (sometimes even top brands) and jewellery on a budget. A bargain at local shops. Delhi Haat is essential for Handicrafts from around the country and Select Citywalk and Dlf Emporio for brands and designer labels.

What: Clothing (both street and labels), Trinkets, Silver and street Jewelry, Handicrafts, books

Top Places: Connaught Place and the adjoining emporiums and Janpath Market, Delhi Haat, Khan Market,

3. Chennai

You just don't leave Chennai without a bright Kanchipuram Sari. Even if you don't wear saris too often, a fine silk sari is essential, and if you are looking for a special one, it doesn't get better than this. Head to the Nalli store if you aren't an expert at saris for a full proof shopping spree. Do visit Pondy Bazaar and maybe grab a bite at Anna Salai in between. Express Avenue and Phoenix Market  City are some popular malls for shopping in India.

What: Kanchipuram Silk Saris, Clothing, Jewelry, Dance costumes and accessories (classical), handicrafts

Top Places: Anna Salai,T-Nagar, Mylapore (for dance costumes, accessories and handicrafts)

4. Goa - Beach shacks, Night markets and Stalls

Goa may already be your favourite, but if you like shopping at flea markets, stalls, and shacks and bargaining you might just fall for it again. Anjuna market is extremely popular and essential. Do bargain and check at multiple stalls before you settle for a purchase. When it comes to pop up flea markets, Anjuna is the best for impulse shopping in India.

What:  Artificial Jewelry and trinkets, Clothing, Beachwear, Footwear, Spices, Local handicrafts, Handbags, Accessories

Top Places: Anjuna Flea Market, Saturday Night Bazaar at Arpora, Calangute Market Square

5. Mumbai

Like any other metro in India, Mumbai's shopping list doesn't have anyone, single highlight or speciality but a muse for anything you may desire. If you are in the mood for street shopping, there is the essential Colaba Causeway, Fashion Street and Hill Road. Don't forget to bargain here. There is also a certain Chor Bazaar and the word is you can find some vintage movie posters here. Could this be the best place to shop in India? We think so too! Amongst malls, do drop in at High Street Phoenix.

What: Clothing (both street and brands hopping), Accessories, Footwear, Jewelry, Maybe even some old and new Bollywood posters

Top Places: Colaba Causeway, Linking Road, High Street Phoenix

6. Kerala

God's own country has nothing but everything natural here. From spices, coffee to essential oils, everything has an original aroma of its own. When it comes to jewellery- it's nothing but pure gold. Kerela is filled with charming markets and malls. Make a visit to the tea and coffee estates and lay your hands on freshly plucked beverage leaves. It's truly a paradise of sorts.

What: spices, gold jewellery (real & artificial), handicrafts, aroma oils, cashew nuts, banana chips, tea, coffee and Kasavu mundu

Top places: Connemara market in Trivandrum, Kochi spice market, Lulu International shopping mall in Kochi

7. Hyderabad

Known as The City of Pearls, Hyderabad is one of the best places to shop for the authentic pearls and relish the tasty biryanis, skewer kebabs and haleem. You'll love Hyderabad if you're a shopaholic.

What: Pearls, Ittar, Pochampally Ikkat Sarees, Mojaris, Kalamkari fabrics, Bidri work, Lac Bangles

Top places: Char Minar Bazaar, Laad Bazaar, Koti Market

India's iconic travel itinerary, the Golden Triangle is a brief experience of rich heritage, colourful culture, hospitality and enriching memories. On a Golden Triangle tour, explore the vibrancy of Delhi, the royal charms of Jaipur and the mystique of Agra along with the finest of cultural bounty of India. And, when is about culture, festivals is an insight that is . After all, they are the foundation of the opulent heritage in the country.

If you too wish to know India a little closely, we’d recommend you travel it by the virtue of Indian festivals. Sounds like a plan? Then, here is a list of festivals that will make your Golden triangle trip a success. Relish every piece of information, who knows when you’ll have your India calling. Happy reading folks!

The Artistic Taj Mahotsav, Agra
 
With the backdrop of exquisite Taj Mahal, Taj Mahotsav is a 10-day gala event that celebrates the life and lifestyle of ancient India. During this festival, hundreds of imminent artisans get the opportunity to carry forward their family heritage. For anyone visiting India for the very first time, a trip to Agra during Taj Mahotsav is a feast for the senses.

Wood/stone carvings of Tamil Nadu, Bamboo/cane work from the North East India, Pashmina from Kashmir, marble and zardozi work from Agra and what not, there is no limit to the art on display here. However, this event is not just about exquisite craft work. In fact, it equally emphasizes on performing arts. In the gist of which, it entertains visitors with various cultural performances. So, if you are a sucker for folk and classical art forms, you’d definitely love every bit of this bonanza.Are you a connoisseur of good food? Then, this festival will be a gourmet delight for you. 

Date: 2nd week of February
Location: Shilpgram.

The International Kite Festival, Jaipur

The clear blue skies of Jaipur are too bejeweled every January to celebrate the International Kite Festival. During this time of the year, thousands of enthusiastic folk take part in the kite flying competition. The craze of it is such, that people from across the country travel miles just to witness this phenomenon. Besides being an enthralling escapade, the Kite Festival is also the perfect place to bond regardless of age, gender and nationality.

Do you know that this festival was strategically planned in order to get the benefits of the winter sun? Yes, that’s a hundred percent true.  It is believed that when the sun moves in Uttarayana, its rays act as medicine for the human body. Celebrated on the occasion of Makar Sankranti, the kite festival is a cultural luxury that only a few get to experience on a cultural trip to India. However, if you are on a Golden triangle trip, you too can enjoy this cultural feast.

Time: February
Location: All Jaipur

The Colourful Holi

Have you ever wanted to paint the world in the colours of the rainbow? If your answer is yes, then, you’ve got a golden opportunity in hand in the form of Holi celebration in India. Although Holi is an auspicious festival celebrated with all hearts across the country, the celebration of it in Jaipur is a little off-beat and unique. Like everything else, Holi in Jaipur is celebrated with all the regal charms. It calls for a two day event, where the community bonds and basks in the glory of religious quintessence.

The first day of Holi celebration in Jaipur invites tourists to become the part of the Hindu folklore. During this time a huge bonfire is set up. Furthermore, people pray around it and celebrate the triumph of good over evil. However, the next day is marked by colours on the streets and people having the best of times. Beside the colour play, there is another aspect of Holi celebration that takes place in the Govind Ji Temple. Here, to celebrate holi with the deities, the devotees play with colours, flowers and even sandalwood.

Time: February- March
Location: Jaipur

Gangaur Festival and Teej Festival, Jaipur

Gangaur and Teej Festivals are Rajasthan’s prized possession. It is the crux of everything we love about the state, from attires to rich customs. Gangaur commences on the day following Holi whereas Teej marks the beginning of monsoon.  Out of which it is Gangaur that continues for 18 days and is very famous among the womenfolk of Rajasthan.

Both of these festivals revolve around love and marriage and venerate Goddess Parvati. During Gangaur, you will notice a procession of women raiding the streets of Jaipur, all decked up in blingy attires. Gangaur and Teej festivals are the apt representation of the Rajasthan. And, if you’d want to bind yourself with the threads of its plush heritage, it’s imperative to add this festival to your bucket list via the Golden triangle trip.

Jaipur Literature Festival

This 3 –day literature carnival invites authors from India and abroad. Literature enthusiasts from all over the world meet at this event to read, discuss, question and answer about the top literary works of the planet.  Moreover, there is even a range of stalls selling everything from food to handicrafts here, which is amazing. If you are a patron of quaint laid back vibes, then an outdoor lounge bar is also available here for relaxing. Furthermore, music performances adorn the evenings here after every literary session.

Time: Late January
Venue: Diggi Palace Hotel, Hawa Mahal and Amer Fort.

Every festival in India is unique. If you have the opportunity to experience any of these festivals on your trip to India, then no one is as lucky as you are. So, make the most of it!