The Comeback Of Death Valley National Park Lake? Will It Stay?

BY  Sibashree Mar 22, 2025

Are you aware of Chikmagalur's Coffee? The taste is counted among the richest coffees in the world. You may have tasted the coffee from here. But did you care to visit the most prestigious coffee estate in the country yet?  You’ll be amazed by the hills covered by mist. As you graze past, you will see the lush green plantations.  The contrasts of the green top against the grey rocks will surely amaze you. But the best part is something else. You will come across the rich coffee aroma. It’s always present in the air.  The bottom line is that this characteristic coffee station is a must-visit. There’s a reason why it is called the Distinct Coffee Land of Karnataka.  The Rich Heritage You Can't-Miss The coffee culture started under the British Raj. Now it has flourished beyond leaps. But things were different from the start. The coffee culture was prevalent among the Britishers and a small section of the Indian elites only.  But that has spread now. Subsequently, Chikmagalur's Coffee is now reputed as one of the finest Indian coffee. Meanwhile, the estate has also risen to the helm of fame. When you visit her, you will encounter one of the biggest and finest coffee estates in the country.  Planning a Chikmagalur Tour Plan your Chikmagalur tour today. Begin with a coffee plantation tour. When you come here,, you will meet a plethora of global and domestic tourists who flock here every year. Firstly, you will enjoy the breathtaking scenery around. Next, you will soak yourself in the rich coffee aroma in the surroundings.  From coffee beans to the brewery, you will witness every step with your eyes. At the same time, you will get insights that you make you a coffee pro. So, make your visit to Chikmagalur’s coffee plantations more memorable and insightful! The History of Chikmagalur Coffee Coffee dates back to the 17th century India. Baba Budan, who also goes by the name of  Hazarat Shah Janab Allah Magatabi, paid a Haj visit. He was mesmerized by the strong beverage he had in Yemen. And the stark aroma with a rich taste took a toll on his tastebuds.  Then he decided to take coffee back to his land. That’s how coffee occurred in India.  undertook a pilgrimage to the holy land of Mecca. During his travels, he encountered the rich, aromatic coffee of Yemen and was so impressed by its refreshing qualities that he decided to bring it back to India. The Challenge  Back then, exporting coffee from the Arabian estates was not allowed. But the legend says that he smuggled around 7 beans. He just hid them in his robes.  When he returned in 1670, he paid a visit to the Chikmagalur's Coffee Hills. At first, he didn’t know it would be a coffee plantation paradise. But the rich soil and the soothing weather worked like magic.  Later the surrounding Sufi hills were named Baba Budan Giri, honoring him.  How Did It Spread? Initial coffee’s acceptance was slow. Hence the cultivation was limited too. But coffees started to spread like wildfire when the English came here.  The Europeans were mesmerized. At first, The Dutch made spreading coffee plantations a personal agenda in India. But the real reign of coffee started under the British. Around 1850, coffee plantations became normal in India.  What’s The Status Now? The Chikmagalur's Coffee is now popular across India and abroad too. However there is a sheer economic importance of this beverage as well. At first, the story began with just 7 coffee beans. But it has now grown into a fully fledged industry.  Today, the coffee plantation is a separate tourist attraction. If you ever go by the scenic Chikmagalur's Coffee estate, check out the coffee plantations with awe!  The Art of Coffee-Making Chikmagalur’s coffee plantations are home to two distinct varieties of coffee: Arabica and Robusta. Arabica is known for its delicate flavor and sweet undertones and is in high demand in international markets.  Arabica plants are smaller and thrive at higher altitudes. They require more manual attention and meticulous care. On the other hand, Robusta is more resilient, growing at lower elevations and having a bold, strong taste. Robusta plants are also easier to maintain. While a casual coffee drinker may be unable to distinguish between the two easily, estate owners carefully select their preferred variety based on climate conditions, maintenance needs, and market demand. Both coffee varieties play a crucial role in Chikmagalur’s coffee industry. The journey from coffee cherry to mug is an intricate, labor-intensive process. The steps of coffee-making are as follows: Step 1: Harvesting Skilled coffee pickers handpick only the ripest coffee cherries, ensuring quality and consistency. Step 2: Processing The harvested cherries undergo various processing methods to remove the outer layers and prepare the beans. Step 3: Drying In this stage, the main aim is to dry the coffee. You can use the sun drying method. Most roasteries use it too.  Once there is no moisture in the beans, you can go to the next stage.  Step 4: Roasting Once done, the coffee beans go through the penultimate stage. Each bean goes through careful roasting. But you need to maintain a precise temperature during the process. It helps to infuse the rich gourmet smell and characteristic taste.  This careful process, perfected over generations, is what makes Chikmagalur’s coffee so exceptional. Explore the Coffee Museum For those eager to explore the world of coffee, a visit to the Coffee Museum, also known as the Coffee Yatra Museum in Chikmagalur, is a must. The Coffee Board of India started this museum as a solo initiative. Now this is the main Indian coffee museum that educates visitors about coffee. You can learn about coffee’s journey from scratch here.  Located in Dasarahalli, just a short drive from Chikmagalur’s city center, the museum offers an enriching experience that is ideal for both casual coffee lovers and connoisseurs. Pay A Visit Today! For a truly immersive coffee experience, a stay amid Chikmagalur’s Coffee plantations is ideal. Gateway Chikmagalur provides the perfect luxury stay, offering modern comforts while keeping visitors close to the town’s coffee heritage.  With its proximity to key attractions like the Coffee Museum, it serves as a great base to explore the region’s rich coffee culture, while indulging in a luxurious, nature-infused getaway.

BY  Ankita May 1, 2024

India has some historical monuments that are not only wonders of India but also wonders of the world. Further, from Rishikesh in the north to Pondicherry in the south, India has many spiritual hubs scattered across the country.  In addition, due to the diverse landscape, it has Himalayan peaks, lush jungles, and the coastal life of the Arabian Sea, Indian Ocean, and the Bay of Bengal.  So, as a first-time tourist or even the most seasoned traveler, finding the wonders of India can be overwhelming for you. Here is an attempt to curate eclectic destinations that cover the preferences of all tourists.  Top 13 Famous Wonders Of India: India has cultural and historic heritages, monuments, and national parks. Here is the list of the top 10 wonders of India that you must visit. Some of them are also UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Further, thanks to numerous government schemes and a development in the infrastructure, India has shown significant progress in the worldwide tourism scenario. The Travel and Tourism Development Index (TTDI) 2024 shows India's 39th position among the 119 countries. It is a proud moment, considering how it has advanced by 15 positions in respect to the 54th rank in 2021.  1. Taj Mahal Taj Mahal is one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Visiting India and failing to visit the Taj Mahal means missing great opportunities to explore India. Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan built it in memory of his consort Mumtaz Mahal.  The architectural styles and the marble work of the Taj Mahal attract tourists from all over the world.  Talk to your tour guard about the slot for the best time touring the Taj Mahal. You will have an excellent opportunity to experience one of the world's great wonders. Direction: The nearest airport to Agra is Indira Gandhi International (IGI) airport. Agra is only 200 km away from the IGI airport. You can get a cab from the airport or rent a car. 2. Red Fort Red Fort is a great edifice by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan.  It is one of the best architectural wonders in India. When visiting India, you should not allow the Ref Fort to be out of your list of the top places to visit in India. This architectural marvel was constructed with red andstone which makes it look like a red aura that is nice to see. Most people who visit India don’t want to miss out on this excellent opportunity of visiting Red Fort. It will be more beautiful during Independence Day that is full of decorations and has a royal appearance. There is a Sound & Light show at Red Fort that is held every evening. It describes the history, tradition, and culture of the Mughal Emperor. Who will not want to make a feel of this when visiting India? No wonder it falls among the top 10 famous wonders of India. Direction: The nearest metro station is Chandni Chowk, and the nearest railway station is old Delhi. However, the nearest bus stand is Kashmiri Gate Bus Stand. 3. Sanchi Stupa Sanchi Stupa is a famous Buddhist architectural and cultural monument in Madhya Pradesh. It is one of the most popular tourist attraction sites that should not miss out on your list when touring India. It is a beautiful wonder in India with decorative images, designs, etc. Under the rule of Shunga, this monument was added with some more modifications like a beautiful harmonica on the top and stairways. It is excellent scenery for anyone who is visiting Australia. Direction: The nearest airport is Raja Bhoj in Gandhi Nagar. Sachi stupa is only 55 k.m away from the airport. 4. Gateway of India This famous Indo-Saracen-style monument was built by British architect George Wittet in 1911. Gateway of India was made entirely of concrete and yellow-colored basalt rock, attracting many people. This glorious architectural marvel adds glory to Mumbai city with its massive structure. You can be sure of having a good time when touring the Gateway of India. Most people who have stepped on this ground will tell you it’s a fantastic experience. Directions: The Central Secretariat metro station is the nearest to the Gateway of India. From the metro station is the only 3k.m.   5. Khajuraho Temples Khajuraho’s group of temples is very famous for its architectural style and exotic sculptures. These temples from the Rajput Chandela Dynasty are holy sites in Jain and Hindu religions. By visiting this wonderful monument, you can experience the skills of architects of the 10th century. It will give you an exclusive opportunity to learn about the great wonders of India. Direction: Lucknow is the nearest airport to Khajuraho Temple. In Khajuraho, a single terminal airport connects to Lucknow airport. Flights to Khajuraho are available from Lucknow, Delhi, and Varanasi. 6. Qutub Minar Qutub Minar is a five-storied famous monument in Delhi by Qutub-Ud-Din Aibak that shows his victory over Hindu rulers. This beautiful wonder was designed in complete Afghan style, and it will be very interesting to experience this place. It has several destroyed monuments and tombs that are a must-watch for the visitors. It is an excellent opportunity for anyone who would like to experience the top 10 famous wonders of India. Along with the Qutub Minar, you can see the non rusted iron pillar of Delhi within the same campus. Direction: The nearest metro station is the Qutub Minar metro station. And Mehrauli Bus stand is the nearest Bus stand of the Qutub Minar. 7. Ajanta And Ellora Caves Ajanta and Ellora caves are the best examples of beautiful paintings, sculptures, and murals in the 2nd century BC and 6th century AD.  This destination also has so much to talk about the history of India. The art effects date from 600 to 1000 CE. Every cave has significant art effects, and all the periods are different. These magnificent caves are significant in Jainism, Buddhism, and Hinduism. However, these monuments are the best places to experience the arts of the bygone era. Most people get the opportunity to visit Ajanta and Ellora Caves. Direction: Aurangabad is the nearest city to the Ajanta Ellora Cave. You can get the train, bus, and flight facility from Mumbai to Aurangabad. 8. Amer Fort Amer Fort is a famous majestic monument. Maan Singh built it in Jaipur. It is a marvelous architectural wonder with Hindu and Muslim architectural styles.  Amer Fort gives those visiting this place an excellent opportunity to enjoy the land's beauty. It is a unique monument with attractions such as Diwan-e-Aam, Sheesh Mahal, and Sukh Mandir and a light show in the evening. Ensure you request the tour guard include this site on the list of places you will be visiting while in India. Direction: Jaipur is the nearest airport. Pick a cab from the Jaipur airport or railway station if you want to reach the Amer fort.  From New Delhi station, you get many options to reach Jaipur, and from New Delhi, you will get the Jaipur connecting flights. 9. Charminar Charminar is the pride of Hyderabad. In a real sense, the monument is a sacred mosque built by Mohammad Quli Qutub Shah in 1591. Some of the historical sites still define the wonders of India. Due to the rapid growth of the population, it has remained in the center of traffic. The Charminar's four minarets symbolize the Islam religion's first four caliphs. Get an opportunity to experience this beauty by slotting Charminar on your Indian trip. Direction: Charminar metro station is the nearest metro. Mahatma Gandhi Bus Station is the nearest bus station to Charminar. And Charminar is just 2.6 km from the Mahatma Gandhi Hyderabad Bus stand. 10. Konark Sun Temple Sun Temple in Konark is a famous temple in India.  The temple exists in the form of a huge chariot that is dedicated to Lord Surya Deva in the 13th century. A major attraction of this temple was depicting the mythological figures and images of animals when the first sun rays touch. It is an excellent place for anyone who wants to enjoy the beauty of India.  Direction: From Puri, only 32 km away from the Konark Sun Temple. You can simply book a cab from Puri and reach the Sun Temple within one hour. 11. Gomateshwara Gomateshwara, located in Karnataka, is a monolithic statue dedicated to the Jain god Baahubali. Voters chose the massive work of art in Karnataka’s Shravanabelagola as one of India’s seven wonders.  The magnificent structure, one of the world’s largest freestanding statues, appears extremely tranquil and peaceful. To keep the rock’s luster and shimmer, the figurine is polished and washed with milk, saffron, and ghee during this celebration. The Mahamastakabhisheka festival takes place here once every 12 years at the temple. And THIS is a sight that you cannot miss! It took place in February 2024. So, it is going to be held again in 2036.  Direction: You can drive from Bangalore for a distance of 144 km through the National Highway 75. This place is also located nearly 95 km from the Mysore airport. 12. Golden Temple The most important Sikhism shrine is Harmandir Sahib, also known as Durbar Sahib and the Golden Temple. It is one of India's most visited religious sites, decorated both inside and out with portions of the Holy Granth Sahib.  The gold-plated structure has copper domes and walls made of sparkling white marble that look like floral patterns from the Islamic style. It is one of India's most well-known wonders due to its tranquility, charm, clean and sanitary environment, and spiritual solace. Direction: The Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport (ATQ) is 11 kilometers from the center of the city. There are daily flights from several international and Indian cities. You can also take a cab from Amritsar Railway Station to reach the temple. 13. Hampi One of India's most well-known historical sites is Hampi, which is in Karnataka and is on the banks of the Tungabhadra River. One of India's Seven Wonders, Hampi is renowned for its historical ruins and relics of the grand Vijaynagar Kingdom. Its magnificent art display has also made it one of India's Seven Wonders. The stunning architectural ruins of temples and monuments make up the charming location, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Direction: Through NH 48 and NH 50, the driving distance from Bangalore is 343 kilometers. The Hospet railway station is 13 kilometers away. 14. India Gate Pardon me for mentioning the India Gate so late in the list. However, India Gate is the monument you must visit first in the country. Sir Edwin Lutyens designed this famous landmark in India, and the construction was open to the public in 1931.  Earlier, this monument was called the All India War Memorial, and it commemorates the Indian soldiers who fought in World War I as part of the British Army and lost their lives. It also pays respect to the soldiers of the Third Anglo-Afghan War. You can also see the Amar Jawan Jyoti at the India Gate. Conceptualized after the Indo-Pakistan War of 1971, this forever-burning torch is a tribute to the country's armed forces.  India Gate is open to visitors throughout the day. However, you can visit the India Gate between 7-9 pm as it looks radiant in the floodlight.  Direction: The Central Secretariat Metro Station is the closest to the India Gate. Further, you can take a metro to Udyog Bhawan and take an auto to the India Gate.  Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Now that you know the wonders of India, it is time for you to learn about the most asked questions related to this topic. Check these out before you leave! 1. What Is The 8th Wonder Of The World In India? Ans: Swaminarayan Akshardham in New Delhi outlines 10,000 years of Indian history in all its breathtaking charm, grace, erudition, and joy. It showcases brilliantly the fragrance of India's antique architecture, beliefs, and timeless spiritual messages. 2. Who Decided The Seven Wonders Of The World? Ans: The original Seven Wonders of the World (also known as Ancient Wonders) are often connected to Greek writer Antipater of Sidon. He gathered a list of the seven most remarkable constructions recognized by man. This list was created to be based upon what was widespread among travelers. 3. Why Seven Wonders Are Called Seven Wonders? Ans: The unusual works of art and architecture are known as the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World toil as a testament to the ability, insight, and sheer hard work of which human beings are capable. The first list comes from a work by Philo of Byzantium written in 225 B.C. called On The Seven Wonders 4. Is The Taj Mahal Removed From The Seven Wonders Of The World? Ans: Ultimately, in 2007, an informal list of the new seven wonders was published. The Taj Mahal in Agra, India, breaks the ice. Recognized as an architectural masterpiece, the 17th-century white marble mausoleum draws up to eight million vacationists a year. Conclusion These are the top 10 famous wonders of India that you must visit on your India tour. Each of them will leave a memorable experience in the back of your mind.  All these historical or mythological monuments are touristy because of the attractions of architectural styles and interesting facts. It will be very enthusiastic and enjoyable to visit these places.  You can be sure that you will have the best experience by visiting any of them. Besides, each of them will give you the best value for your money. Do your homework well so that you have no regrets after you visit India.   Read Also: Top 10 Most Popular Paraguay Food That You Must Try 10 Things To Do In Bogota – You Must Know Before Going Top 7 Nantucket Beaches For Tourists In Massachusetts Top 7 Places To Visit For An Asian Solo Traveler

BY  Ankita Jan 12, 2024

Visions of crystal clear water lapping at pristine white sandy beaches, a glass of vintage wine on an exclusive rooftop bar overlooking a breathtaking cityscape, or perhaps a relaxing day at a world-class spa in an exotic location - luxury travel often evokes such dreamy thoughts. But alas, are such extravagant getaways limited only to the affluent? Not necessarily. Traveling in style doesn’t always have to break the bank. With the right planning, smarts, and a bit of innovation, you, too, can orchestrate a memorable and luxurious vacation, without burning a hole in your pocket. One key to success in this endeavor is leveraging modern technology, like a Travel Planning Virtual Assistant. Budget Your Journey Well The first step towards carving out your dream luxury vacation on a budget is to plan thoroughly. Define your budget and stick to it. This is where a Travel Planning Virtual Assistant can be your most valuable tool. Today's AI-based virtual assistants offer comprehensive services: finding budget-friendly flights, choosing cost-effective accommodations, searching best deals on activities, and even helping you stick to your budget during the trip. Choose Your Destination Wisely Sometimes luxury is less about the world's popular tourist spots and more about untouched, serene spots. The path less traveled can provide tranquility and exclusivity that even money can't buy. Choose destinations that aren't on everyone's bucket list, but offer immense beauty and unique experiences. Countries in Southeast Asia, Eastern Europe, or South America can render a luxury experience at a fraction of the cost compared to traditional luxury destinations like Paris, Dubai, or New York. Leverage Off-Season and Mid-Week Travel Contrary to popular belief, the off-season can be a perfect time for budget luxury travel. During these times, you can snag the best hotel rooms, flights, and experiences at heavily discounted prices, without the chaotic crowds. Mid-week travel also often has cheaper airfares and accommodations. Your Travel Planning Virtual Assistant can assist in comparing offseason rates for various destinations, and set price alerts for mid-week flights. Book Well In Advance or Very Last Minute Booking flights and hotels well in advance ensures you secure the best prices. Alternatively, a last-minute booking can also land you killer deals as airlines and hotels endeavor to fill empty spaces. Try both strategies and see what works best for your travel plans. Choose Accommodation Wisely Luxe doesn't necessarily mean a 5-star hotel. Consider boutique hotels, bed and breakfasts, or vacation rentals, which often offer personalized services that rival or even exceed those of bigger chains. Many of these alternatives provide a unique experience, let you live like a local, and save money in the process. Eat Like a Local One of the most significant expenses on vacation is food. Instead of dining at expensive tourist traps, explore local markets and eat like a local. Not only can you save a ton but you also experience the authentic taste of your destination's cuisine. Take Advantage of Free Activities Every destination has activities that don't cost a cent but offer priceless experiences. Be it wandering through charming local neighborhoods, visiting free museums, exploring nature trails, or enjoying a sunset on a secluded beach. These experiences will not tax your wallet but will enrich your memory bank. Use Points and Miles If you're an avid credit card user, make sure to leverage rewards points for flights, hotels, and even dining. It could, quite literally, earn you free travel. In conclusion, luxury travel, contrary to popular belief, is not just the exclusive domain of the ultra-rich. With careful planning, making thoughtful choices, and using technology like Travel Planning Virtual Assistants to our advantage, we can all have luxury vacations while staying within our budget. Remember, luxury doesn't always come with a giant price tag. Sometimes, it is hidden in the heart of a priceless experience. So, pack your bags, plan wisely, and embark upon your dream luxury vacation without squandering your life savings. Read Also: Planning A Vacation To Bali? Read This Blog! The Reasons To Choose A Tropical Island Vacation Every Year How To Choose The Perfect Costa Rica Vacation Rental: A Step-By-Step Guide