Is India on your list?

Published in the Sunday Indian Express Magazine - Eye on 02 February 2025

Let me give you a few reasons why it should be!

Mark Twain once said, ‘India is the cradle of the human race, the birthplace of human speech, the mother of history, the grandmother of legend, and the great-grandmother of tradition.’ But even these words barely scratch the surface of what India has to offer.

But here's the real question: Is India on your bucket list? Have you ever sat down and thought about the different travel bucket lists you could have for India? Trust me, even if you travel every single weekend for the rest of your life, it won't be enough. You will have only seen a small percentage of what India truly has to offer. So, let's embark on a journey to discover why our country should be at the top of all your travel lists.

Historical Marvels

India's rich history is a treasure trove for history lovers. Let's start our journey in Meghalaya, where the Nartiang Monoliths stand as silent sentinels of the past. These monoliths, located in the Jaintia Hills, are believed to be the tallest collection of monoliths in the world.

Moving to Odisha, we find the lesser-known but fascinating Ratnagiri Monastery. This ancient Buddhist site, part of the Diamond Triangle of Odisha, dates back to the 5th century and was once a thriving centre of Buddhist learning.

In the western state of Gujarat, the Rani ki Vav (Queen's Stepwell) in Patan is a hidden gem. This intricately designed stepwell, built in the 11th century, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a marvel of ancient engineering. The stepwell descends seven levels and is adorned with over 500 sculptures depicting Hindu deities, mythological scenes, and everyday life.

In Tamil Nadu, we have the Brihadeeswarar Temple in Gangaikonda Cholapuram, a lesser-known but equally magnificent counterpart to its namesake in Thanjavur. Built by Rajendra Chola I in the 11th century, this temple is a testament to the architectural and artistic achievements of the Chola dynasty. The temple's towering vimana (temple tower) and intricate carvings make it a must-visit for history buffs.

In the northern state of Uttarakhand, the Jageshwar Temples dedicated to Lord Shiva and known for their exquisite stone carvings offer a unique historical experience. This complex of over 100 ancient temples, nestled in a serene valley surrounded by deodar forests, dates back to the 9th to 13th centuries. The annual Jageshwar Monsoon Festival is a great time to visit and experience the local culture.

These are just a few examples of the historical marvels that await you. Each site has its own unique story, and exploring them is like taking a journey through time.

Culinary Adventures

India's culinary diversity is unparalleled, offering a feast for the senses that is sure to delight any food enthusiast.

Let's start our culinary journey in Nagaland, where the cuisine is known for its bold flavours and use of indigenous ingredients. One such dish is Smoked Pork with Bamboo Shoots. This traditional Naga delicacy features succulent pieces of pork smoked to perfection and cooked with bamboo shoots, giving it a unique and earthy flavour. The dish is often spiced with the fiery Bhut Jolokia (ghost pepper), one of the hottest chillies in the world.

Moving to Odisha, we find the lesser-known but delicious Chhena Poda. This unique dessert is made from fresh paneer, sugar, and semolina, and is baked until it caramelizes, creating a rich and flavorful treat.

Heading south, we arrive in Karnataka, where the town of Coorg is famous for its unique cuisine. One such dish is Pandi Curry, a spicy curry that is a staple in Coorg households. The curry is made with succulent pieces of meat cooked in a blend of local spices, including the aromatic Coorgi black pepper.

In Himachal Pradesh, the traditional dish Siddu is a must-try. Siddu is a steamed bread made from wheat flour and stuffed with a mixture of mashed potatoes, green peas, and spices.

Finally, if we look at West Bengal, we are treated to a unique culinary experience with Chingri Malai Curry. This dish features succulent prawns cooked in a creamy coconut milk gravy, flavoured with mustard seeds, green chillies, and a hint of turmeric.

These are just a few examples of the culinary adventures that await all of us. So, if you are a food enthusiast looking to explore beyond the usual, make sure to add these hidden culinary gems to your travel bucket list.

Artistic Expressions

From traditional art forms that have been passed down through generations to contemporary art that pushes boundaries, India's art scene is as diverse and vibrant as its culture.

Let’s begin with Manipur, where the traditional dance form Ras Lila is a mesmerizing blend of classical dance, drama, and music. This dance form, which depicts the love story of Radha and Krishna, is performed with intricate costumes and graceful movements. The performances are often held in temples and during festivals, offering a unique cultural experience.

Moving to West Bengal, we find the lesser-known art form of Patachitra. This traditional scroll painting, originating from the villages of Medinipur, is known for its intricate details and vibrant colours. The artists, known as Patuas, narrate stories from mythology and folklore through their paintings, often accompanied by songs.

In Rajasthan, the art of Phad painting is a hidden gem. This traditional form of scroll painting, originating from the Bhilwara region, depicts the epic tales of local deities and heroes. The paintings are created on long pieces of cloth and are used as mobile temples by the Bhopa community.

Heading south, we arrive in Kerala, where the traditional dance-drama Koodiyattam is a must-see. Recognized by UNESCO as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity, Koodiyattam is one of the oldest surviving theatrical traditions in the world. The performances, which can last for several days, are characterized by elaborate costumes, expressive gestures, and intricate makeup. The Kerala Kalamandalam is a renowned institution where you can witness this ancient art form.

In the northern state of Himachal Pradesh, the traditional art of Chamba Rumal is a unique form of embroidery. These handkerchiefs, known for their fine needlework and intricate designs, often depict scenes from mythology and daily life. A visit to the Bhuri Singh Museum in Chamba offers a chance to see these exquisite pieces up close.

These are just a few examples. Each art form, whether traditional or contemporary, reflects our country's rich cultural heritage and its ever-evolving creative spirit.

Nature's Wonders

We all know that India's natural beauty is breathtaking. So let’s start our journey for this section in Arunachal Pradesh, where the Ziro Valley offers a tranquil escape. This picturesque valley, home to the Apatani tribe, is known for its lush green landscapes, terraced rice fields, and vibrant festivals. The Ziro Music Festival, held annually, is a unique blend of music, culture, and nature, attracting artists and visitors from across the country.

Moving to Meghalaya, the Living Root Bridges are a marvel of natural engineering. These bridges, made from the roots of the Ficus elastica tree, are grown and maintained by the Khasi and Jaintia tribes. The Double Decker Living Root Bridge in Nongriat is particularly famous and offers a challenging yet rewarding trek through dense forests and cascading waterfalls.

In Gujarat, the Rann of Kutch is a unique landscape that transforms with the seasons. This vast salt marsh, one of the largest in the world, is a sight to behold during the Rann Utsav, a cultural festival that showcases the region's rich heritage. The white desert, under the moonlight, creates a surreal and magical experience.

Heading south, we arrive in Karnataka, where the Nagarhole National Park near Coorg, is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, offering sightings of elephants, tigers, and a variety of bird species.

In the northern state of Himachal Pradesh, the Spiti Valley offers a stark yet stunning landscape. Known as the ‘Middle Land’ between Tibet and India, Spiti is characterized by its barren mountains, ancient monasteries, and crystal-clear rivers. The Chandrataal Lake, also known as the Moon Lake, is a high-altitude lake that offers breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere.

Finally, let’s look at Andhra Pradesh, where the Araku Valley is a lesser-known but beautiful destination. Nestled in the Eastern Ghats, this valley is known for its coffee plantations, tribal culture, and scenic beauty. The Borra Caves, located nearby, are limestone caves with stunning stalactite and stalagmite formations, adding to the region's natural allure.

After all of this, I am sure we both agree that India is indeed a land of endless possibilities. Today, we have delved into India's Nature's Wonders, Artistic Expressions, Historical Marvels, and the Culinary Landscape. However, this is just the tip of the iceberg. Our country is also home to pristine beaches, spiritual havens, thrilling adventure destinations, and so much more.

From the tranquil shores of Andaman and Nicobar Islands to the sacred ghats of Varanasi, from the adrenaline-pumping treks in the Western Ghats to the serene ashrams of Rishikesh, the possibilities are endless. One Sunday is simply not enough to discuss all that India has to offer.

So, is India on your list? It should be. Pack your bags, set out on an adventure, and let the magic of India unfold before you. Happy travels! Have an awesome Sunday!