Originally called ‘Kehwira’, the capital of Nagaland, Kohima was the site of one of the bloodiest battles of World War II. On a visit to Kohima, Rohan passes old tanks, memorials and relics of the allied forces who sacrificed their lives in the war. Intrigued, he finds out about Nagaland’s role in the World War II, when he visits the cemetery of the soldiers who died in the war at Nagaland. 

Nagaland’s War Stories

On a bike trip across the Nagaland, Rohan reaches a picturesque village called Khonoma, where he meets people of the Angami tribe, an ethnic tribe of Nagaland, known for their basket making skills. He gets a chance to participate in their traditional form of wrestling and, at Wokha, the bold Lotha tribe show him how to fire a gun.  

Fearless Nagas

From the historic Battle of Kohima, and the rise of Naga nationalism to Christianity’s expansion, the 20th century was a transformative period for the Nagas, as they oscillated between the old and new, indigenous and western, tradition and modernity. Introduced to Nagaland in these turbulent times, rock and gospel music became a state-wide craze. Rohan experiences the quintessential Naga love for these forms of music when he attends a music festival in Mokokchung village. 

Naga Music

Rohan goes to the Longwa village in Nagaland’s Mon district, where he comes to know of a unique phenomenon: The village is shared by two countries, India and Myanmar, and the international border passes through the village chief’s house. He visits the chief’s house and gets an understanding about the history, culture and ways of life of the Konyak tribe, the inhabitants of the village who are considered the last of India’s headhunters.

Indo-myanmar Border

Having extensively explored India, Aradhana embarks on an adventure to find out the hidden wonders of a land steeped in spirituality and untamed wilderness in Chhattisgarh! Braving the wilds of Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary, she seeks the elusive leopards. But her wanderlust isn’t satiated. She delves deeper into the land and finds herself in the forgotten realm of Sirpur, where legends come alive in stone. The stories of Chhattisgarh begin to unfold amidst the temples of Sirpur. 

An Unexplored Adventure 

As Aradhana’s journey in Chhattisgarh continues, she is stunned to discover the wealth of natural beauty that the state has to offer. Finding herself mesmerized by the thundering cascade of Chitrakote Waterfalls and delving into the enigmatic depths of Kutumsar Cave, she begins to wonder whether one trip would be enough to soak in the magic of nature’s creations on this land. 

Chitrakote 

On the last leg of her journey in Chhattisgarh, Aradhana uncovers the hidden world of the state’s artistic legacy. She crosses paths with a master Dhokra artisan, delving into the mesmerizing realm of bell metal casting. Her journey, however, doesn’t end there. Amidst the rhythmic symphony of the Kumhars, guardians of terracotta craft in Bastar, she witnesses clay breathing life into timeless masterpieces. This opens her eyes to the enduring spirit of art and ancient traditions in Chhattisgarh. 

Dhokra And Bastar

Anushrii’s journey to Kerala starts from the beautiful city of Kochi, a city rich in culture, history and natural beauty. She weaves through the pages of history at St. Francis Church and loses herself in the rhythm of the waves at Cherai Beach. But it is under the shadow of the iconic Chinese fishing nets and in the bustle of Vasco Da Gama Square, that she discovers the pulse of this coastal jewel, where tradition meets the modern world.  

Vibrant Kochi 

Anushrii's next destination is one of the most renowned spots in Kerala: Kumarakom, a place of tranquillity nestled alongside the serene Vembanad Lake. Here, amidst the 18th-century Tharawads or cottages, she finds lakeside dwellers. Gliding in a traditional houseboat on the mesmerizing backwaters of Kerala she then embarks to Alleppey, where the resplendent Krishnapuram Palace opens its doors to a bygone era.   

Mesmerizing Kumarakom 

In Thiruvanthapuram, the capital of Kerala, Anushrii goes beach-hopping, and it leads her to discover some of the city’s best-kept secrets. Amidst the sun-kissed sands and the roar of the Arabian Sea, she finds herself gawking at the awe-inspiring geological wonders of Varkala. She is further amazed when she stumbles onto the untamed heart of the crescent shaped Kovalam beach. Nothing prepares her, however, for the breathtaking convergence of beach and backwaters at Poovar Islands. 

Thiruvananthapuram’s Beaches 

Deep into the heart of Kerala’s mountainous region, Idukki, Anushrii embarks on a sensory odyssey at a spice farm in Thekkady, where the sharp, heady scents of spices like pepper, cardamom and vanilla engulf her. Amidst the emerald hills of Munnar, she finds solace in nature's embrace. It is, however, when she encounters the gentle giants at an elephant farm, and forges an unforgettable connection with these magnificent creatures, that she truly loses her heart to Kerala.

Idyllic Idukki 

Anushrii sets out to experience the countryside of Kerala in Palakkad, the land of palms and paddy fields. As she succumbs to the magic of time-honored treatments at Ayurvedamana, she finds herself thoroughly rejuvenated. In the shadow of a Dravidian temple, she is entranced by the fierce precision of Kalaripayattu warriors and the hypnotic grace of Mohiniattam dancers. But her cultural immersion doesn’t end there; Thrissur beckons with the thunderous spectacle of the Thrissur Pooram festival.

Palakkad’s Cultural Treasures 

Anushrii heads to Wayanad, a pristine forest region nestled in the Western Ghats, where she goes on an arduous trek to Edakkal's pre-historic caves, a sacred gallery of Neolithic whispers etched in stone. As she descends, the cascading grandeur of Kerala’s second largest waterfall awaits. Finally, immersed in the serenity of Pookot Lake, she realizes that Wayanad is a place where the land becomes a canvas of antiquity, nature's beauty is a symphony, and silence speaks volumes. 

Wayanad’s Rustic Charms 

In the last leg of her journey, Anushrii visits the historic city of Kozhikode, which was once a thriving trade centre. From the enigmatic depths of Theyyam, a mystic dance of Gods, to the maritime sagas whispered by the walls of Bekal Fort, and a daring rendezvous with a guardian crocodile at the sacred Ananthapura Lake Temple, she unveils the captivating heritage of Kerala, where history and myth converge in an enchanting dance of discovery.

Kozhikode’s Rich Heritage

Craft beer, lush gardens and scrumptious breakfasts? Swapnila knows just what to expect when she visits Bengaluru...but does she really? The stories of a famous warrior-king come alive at a palace in the city and at an island fortress on the outskirts. At the same time, she also finds herself navigating the tranquil realms of the magnificent ISKCON Temple and the sacred halls of the Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple. Soon, she realizes that it's a city with many facets waiting to be discovered. 

Bengaluru’s Many Facets 

In the heart of Mysuru, Swapnila embarks on a journey that is steeped in culture and heritage. A mythological tale that defines the city unfolds at an ancient temple perched atop a hill. She delves deeper into the roots of the city at a majestic palace, where she uncovers the enduring legacy of the Wodeyar dynasty. The allure of Mysore silk, the sizzle of a crisp Mysore Masala Dosa on the griddle – at every turn, the city slowly starts to win her heart with its distinct charm. 

Mysuru’s Cultural Treasures

Unveiling the treasures of the past on a journey to Hassan, Swapnila delves into the architectural wonders of Karnataka. On the way, she stops at Shravanabelagola, a major Jainism pilgrimage site, where she finds her breath taken away by the 57-foot-high statue of Lord Bahubali Gomateshwara. Upon reaching Hassan, the echoes of masterful craftsmanship during the Hoysala reign greet her at the ornate Chennakesava and Hoysaleshwara temples.  

Hassan’s Architectural Wonders 

Exploring the hallowed grounds of Pattadakal, Swapnila ventures deep into the evocative world of Chalukyan temples. From the mystical Virupaksha to the enigmatic Jambulingeshwara, these timeless structures tell the tale of architectural evolution during the Chalukya reign. Looking beyond their intricate carvings, however, she begins to unveil the intriguing metamorphosis of these temples — from humble offerings to celestial deities, to bold monuments of war victories and symbols of royal power. 

Chalukyan Stories In Pattadakal 

With its sumptuous mix of cultures, cuisines, beliefs, architecture and landscapes, India is arguably the most engaging, colourful, chaotic, spiritual and life-affirming country in the world. How can visitors possibly prepare themselves for this ultimate travel plunge? Here is a guide to help you enjoy the best experiences and activities in this challenging but magical country when you set out to Xplore India. 

 