Sakal Newspaper Article English Translation - Date: 9th Feb 2025

Dekho Apna Desh
Dil se! Pyaar se! Samman se!  

Ladakh is India’s most beautiful Union Territory. Nestled in the heart of the Himalayas, it is a mesmerizing cold desert. The key attractions in Leh include Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, Leh Market, and Namgyal Tsemo Gompa. The Indus Valley from our school history books, home to the Indus Valley Civilization, is also located here. Additionally, the Drass War Memorial, which narrates the tales of the Kargil War, is a must-visit. The Kargil Vijay Smarak (Victory Memorial) in Ladakh reminds us of the glorious sacrifices of the brave soldiers of the Kargil War. 

Nubra Valley, often referred to as the 'Valley of Flowers,' is an awe-inspiring landscape surrounded by snow-clad mountains, where the Shyok and Nubra rivers meet. The Diskit Monastery, situated in the Nubra Valley, is known for its stunning architecture and collection of Buddhist artwork. The 106-foot-tall Maitreya Buddha statue here is a major attraction. The valley is also home to sand dunes, where adventure enthusiasts can enjoy rides on double-humped camels. Witnessing the star-filled sky in the cold desert of the Himalayas at night is truly an unforgettable experience. 

Ladakh is also home to Khardung La Pass, the highest motorable road in the world. 

Turtuk, a village near Leh, is a stunning settlement surrounded by the Karakoram mountain range. It was once considered India’s last village, but the Honourable Prime Minister has now given it the designation of India’s first village. 

The breath taking Pangong Tso, a landlocked lake, lies along the India-Tibet border. Its name in the Tibetan language means “long or narrow magical lake.” The crystal-clear blue waters enhance its beauty. During winter, the lake freezes, attracting tourists from around the world for ice skating. Spanning nearly 100 kilometres, it is the largest saltwater lake in Asia. The iconic final scene of the blockbuster movie 3 Idiots was filmed on its banks. 

Ladakh's popular local delicacies include thukpa—a hot noodle soup—and momos. Tourism is a major contributor to Ladakh’s economy, making it essential for us to explore this magnificent land. 

So, pack your bags and set off on an unforgettable journey to Ladakh!

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Oh! I didn’t know this…  

Taiwan is an island that takes pride in its bustling cities like Taichung and Taipei. It is currently known as ‘Nationalist China’ or the ‘Republic of China.’ Located about 160 kilometres from mainland China, Taiwan was once called Formosa by the Portuguese, meaning ‘beautiful.’ 

Our world is full of wonders, and one such marvel is Yehliu, a cape located in the Wanli District of New Taipei, Taiwan. This village has a rich cultural heritage linked to its maritime history, and its Wanli crabs are famous. From an aerial view, Yehliu appears like a giant turtle sinking into the sea, which is why it is also called the ‘Yehliu Turtle.’ 

Yehliu Geopark is a masterpiece of nature’s artistry. Located just 40 kilometres from Taipei, this park educates visitors about its unique surroundings. In 1962, Taiwanese photographer Huang-Tse-Hsiu made this region famous through his photo series Yehliu - Forsaken Paradise, attracting tourists from Taiwan and China. The park stretches 1.7 kilometres from Taipei and features naturally formed sedimentary rock formations. The area consists of sandstone, mudstone, and limestone. Yehliu Cape itself was formed by Datun Mountain, with its surface covered in dotted hoodoo rocks. 

The geopark, located on Taiwan’s North Coast, has several rock formations named based on their shapes. It is divided into three sections: 

• The first section features formations like Queen’s Head, Fairy Shoe, and Sea Candles. 

• The second section includes formations shaped like a Dragon’s Head. 

• The third section showcases naturally formed sea caves and seal-like rocks. 

Beyond rock formations, Yehliu Geopark also displays fossils of marine creatures that are millions of years old. It is not just a geological wonder but also crucial for protecting the marine ecosystem, coastal vegetation, and seabirds. 

Yehliu Geopark is deeply embedded in Taiwanese folklore, with many local myths associated with its landscape. Established as a scenic area in 1964, it was officially declared a geopark in 2001. Today, it attracts visitors from around the world who come to witness these extraordinary rock formations. As one of Taiwan’s most significant geological sites, Yehliu Geopark promotes sustainable tourism by designating specific walking paths for visitors. 

This incredible natural wonder is now part of Veena World’s group tours. If you want to experience this breathtaking landscape, join us on a trip to Taiwan!  

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I Am the Queen 

Neha Nalawade, Goregaon 

I always have permission to travel alone. My happy family consists of my son, daughter-in-law, husband, and me! We live in Goregaon. I started booking tours from Veena World's Goregaon West office within a year of their launch because the staff and tour managers there are incredibly warm and welcoming. 

On tours, when all the ladies are busy shopping and clicking photos, the tour managers patiently take care of everything. It makes you feel so special—like a VIP! I must have done around twelve tours with Veena World so far, traveling to many countries. 

I am Neha Nalawade! Ever since I can remember, I have wanted to see the whole world. For the past 12-14 years, I have been traveling across India and internationally. I love exploring India—after all, it's my own country! But I also enjoy visiting other countries. 

I have travelled to Dubai, Europe, the USA, Greece, South Africa, Hong Kong, Singapore, Thailand, Mauritius, and many more. But I want to visit Europe again—the cities there are just mesmerizing. As long as I can travel, I want to keep going. Japan is on my list! 

I follow a pattern—one year an international tour, the next a domestic one—and I plan to continue this way. Every trip is memorable. I always travel with Veena World’s Women’s Special Tours because they are safe, and I don’t have to worry about anything. 

I have a deep passion for traveling. Initially, my family booked a Women’s Special Tour for me, and now it has become a tradition! The best part is that once the tour is booked, there’s no stress. My family and I are completely at ease, knowing I’ll return safely, just as I left. 

Photography is another love of mine, so whenever I visit a new country, I capture its landscapes, architecture, and intricate carvings through my lens. Greece was especially breathtaking—with its blue and white houses perched on hillsides, stunning beaches, and car-free streets that we explored on foot. 

I still want to visit Australia and New Zealand. I’m an avid shopper—I collect souvenirs and magnets from every destination, preserving my memories in tangible form. 

Women’s Special Tours are so much fun! We get to participate in fashion shows, have a blast, and create unforgettable moments. What more could I ask for?

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Private Holiday Ideas
Explore Europe’s Amazing Trains with Veena World Customized Holidays 

Each of us dreams of exploring Europe, a continent renowned for its breathtakingly scenic train journeys. From snow-capped mountains to picturesque valleys and lush green forests, these train rides offer an unforgettable experience. Here are some of the most amazing train options in Europe: 

Glacier Express 

• Travel from Zermatt to St. Moritz in just 8 hours. 

• The train passes through 91 tunnels and over 291 bridges. 

• The Excellence Class offers a guaranteed window seat, champagne and starter, a regional five-course meal, and access to the Glacier Bar. 

Bernina Express 

• Runs on the UNESCO World Heritage Rhaetian Railway, connecting Chur or St. Moritz (Switzerland) to Tirano (Italy). 

• Features large panoramic windows for stunning views. 

• Summer travellers can enjoy organic herbal tea and complimentary Swiss chocolates. 

Golden Pass Express 

• A premium train service between Montreux and Interlaken. 

• Thanks to innovative variable gauge technology, the train no longer needs to be changed at Zweisimmen. 

• Some trains offer VIP seats with a driver’s eye view. 

• Certain departures feature retro-style coaches for a nostalgic experience. 

Another scenic Golden Pass train is the Chocolate Train, which operates from Montreux to Gruyères and Cailler-Nestlé Chocolate Factory from May to October. 

Orient Express 

• The classic Venice Simplon-Orient-Express offers a luxury journey from Paris to Venice. 

• Famous for its opulent interiors, guests can book private cabins or luxury suites. 

• Enjoy Michelin-star-level cuisine and the services of a personal butler. 

Flam Railway, Norway 

• One of the steepest standard-gauge railways in Europe. 

• As the train ascends from Flam to Myrdal, travelers can enjoy spectacular panoramic views. 

• Passes by many waterfalls, including the world-famous Kjosfossen Waterfall. 

Jacobite Steam Train / Hogwarts Express 

• Runs from Fort William to Mallaig at a speed of 50 mph. 

• The 21-arched Glenfinnan Viaduct became iconic after featuring in the Harry Potter film series as the Hogwarts Express route. 

If you dream of experiencing these incredible train journeys, contact our Customized Holidays team today to book your seats in advance!  

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Holi Across India 

Holi, the festival of colors and joy, is celebrated across India in unique and fascinating ways. In Vrindavan, the Banke Bihari Temple hosts Flower Holi, where fragrant petals replace traditional colors. Mathura, the birthplace of Lord Krishna, comes alive with a month-long celebration, culminating in a grand Holi festival in March. Barsana’s Lathmar Holi is famous for its playful tradition where women chase men with sticks, while Phalen Ki Holi, near Mathura, sees a priest walking through fire, believed to remain unharmed like Prahlad from mythology. In Himachal’s Sangla Holi Festival, locals share Tottu, a sweet dish made from buttermilk and roasted barley flour. The most intriguing of all, Masaan Holi in Varanasi, is celebrated at Manikarnika Ghat, where Naga and Aghori sadhus smear themselves with ash from cremation pyres and revel in the festival. From fire to flowers, from colors to rituals, Holi takes on many hues across India—where will you be celebrating with Veena World?