When it comes to travelling and exploring new places, many Indians are eager to travel abroad. However, most of them are unaware of how beautiful our own country is. Foreigners from all over the world flock to our land to experience the serenity that is not available anywhere else in the world. This year, our editor-in-chief Kamiya Jani explored the deepest corners of the country for the I Love My India segment. Here are our top 10 favourites of the year!
10. Mahakal Lok
One of the 12 jyotirlingas of the country, this Mahakaleshwar Temple is said to date back to the iconic mythological Shiva stories of yore. This Mahakal Lok Corridor is 900 metres long and is one of the longest corridors in the country. The murals on the wall are beautifully painted and narrate ancient mythological stories of many deities.
9. Onam In Kerala
This video brings back fond memories because we had the time of our lives celebrating Onam in Kerala. We went to Kumarakom in Kerala to celebrate Onam the right way! From different types of dances to the delicious Sadhya spread, it was an experience to remember!
8. 3-Day Getaway In Shimla
Shimla is known as the queen of hills, and for good reason too. We paid this queen a 3-day visit to experience all that she offers to those who come her way. We ate, shopped, and had an all-around amazing time exploring the queen of hills.
7. 48 Hours In Jodhpur
Jodhpur is known as the city of princes. So, to truly experience the royalty of the city, we spent 48 hours exploring its nooks and corners. The local culture and food blew us away and we are eager to come back again to explore more of this amazing city.
6. Somnath Dham
The first of the above-mentioned 12 Jyotirlingas, our journey to this blessed destination was truly divine. Made of pure gold, the history of this temple is as rich as its construction. It is located where three famous rivers, Kapila, Hiran, and Saraswati rivers meet. To add a cherry on top, there’s a solid light and sound show that will knock your socks off!
5. Kedarnath Yatra
For Kamiya, visiting Kedarnath was a childhood dream come true. This journey was a fulfilling and soulful experience and we encourage everyone to experience this place at least once in their lifetime. The legends are true, this place is just as mesmerising and enchanting as the stories say it is.
4. Ram Mandir, Ayodhya
Given how much history and controversy this idyllic temple has, it was impossible for us to not visit this place. Though still under construction, the temple is all set to open its doors in 2024.
3. The Statue Of Unity In Vistadome
We went to the tallest statue in the world, the Statue of Unity. You know what they say about the journey being just as important as the destination. Well on this journey, we got to experience it. We travelled in the luxurious new Vistadome coach of the Janshatabdi train which took us from Ahmedabad to Kevadia. If you plan to visit the Statue soon, we highly recommend that you take this train.
2. Kashi Vishwanath Temple
Another one of 12 Jyotirlingas, Kashi Vishwanath Temple is a sight to behold. This marvellous temple was recently restored and the reconstruction has added chaar chand to the temple. Everyone should visit this amazing place and witness the glory for themselves!
1. Katarpur Gurudwara, Pakistan
We haven’t missed the irony that the top video of I Love My India segment is to a destination that is not in India. In our defence, however, the location is so serene and beautiful that you wouldn’t realise that you’re not in India. Besides, the corridor that takes us to the Gurudwara, lets you travel without any visa.
Also Read: A Beach Wedding On Your Mind? Here Are 5 Beautiful Indian Beach Destinations
Which destinations would you want us to visit next year? Comment below and let us know!
Cover Image Credits: Internal