Across India, many monuments are said to be an inspiration for the Taj Mahal. The Ibrahim Rouza in Bijapur is one such glaring example. The local guide in Bijapur narrated stories about how the Taj was inspired by Rouza’s architecture. But the only validated inspiration for the Taj Mahal is the tomb of Mughal emperor, Humayun, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Humayun was born as … Continue reading Humayun’s Tomb, the inspiration to Taj Mahal
Wanting to skip the usual and touristy Bangkok-Pattaya-Phuket itinerary, our plan to drive through the country led us to the western Thai town of Kanchanaburi (pronounced by locals as gaanjanaburi). The town is a gateway to historical attractions and national parks, including Erawan Falls and the infamous Death Railway. If you are fond of classic movies, you may have watched The Bridge on the River … Continue reading Offbeat Thailand: The Bridge on River Kwai
Do you remember how many times you read countless articles on the best roads to drive on in the world and wished you could just sit in a car, throttle its heart out and drive off where ever you wanted to? We all have been there. At least I have, a million times. Road trips are the one thing I crave for the most and … Continue reading How to obtain an International Driving Permit in India
A couple of years back when I told my husband about my plan of us taking off on a never-ending road trip, he dismissed me as crazy and even after a lot of coaxing from my end he did not concede. Thus my epic plan never took off. Recently I had the privilege to talk to Air Commodore (retd) G L Hiremath, who along with … Continue reading These 60 year-olds drove 16,000 km across India in a Tata Hexa!
While randomly surfing the Konkan coast on Google Maps, I came across a little protruded landmass into the sea. Upon zooming in, the area read as Korlai Fort. Intrigued, I googled more about the Fort. Controlled by the Portuguese, it served as a watch tower to the Revdanda creek and the strategically important Chaul Fort. The photos on the internet made me want to experience … Continue reading Offbeat Maharashtra: Korlai Fort
We are not makers of History. We are made by History ~ Martin Luther King Jr. April 18 is celebrated as the World Heritage Day. Heritage is broadly classified as anything that has been passed on through generations. Historical sites, cultural traditions, natural wonders, regional food, jewellery, heritage can either be a personal property or belong to the world. The theme for 2018 is “Cultural Heritage … Continue reading World Heritage Day – Once upon a time in Pune
Strolling on the golden sand with warm breeze rustling through my hair, I collected the broken sea shells that lied on my path. The sea clumsily kissed my feet before it drifted to come back vigorously. In all the years of my countless Goa trips, Palolem is always a favourite. Not on the tourist map a few years back, it is now on the list of … Continue reading All You Want To Know About Palolem Beach, Goa
Bijapur through the camera Continue reading Bijapur, Karnataka: A Photo Essay
A constant itch for a long drive turned into a road trip plan after we came across photos of Udaipur. Having taken road trips earlier, the 850 odd km drive did not seem unattainable. A couple of days later after having the car thoroughly checked and bookings done, my husband and I set out for the long drive that had eluded us. After the initial arguing … Continue reading A First Timer’s Guide to Udaipur, Rajasthan
Jayprakash Nair of Winks and Smiles is an avid photography, travel and adventure enthusiast. He believes in living, discovering and capturing ordinary moments in an extraordinary way. 1. What got you hooked to travelling? I find great learning in nature and people. From a young age, I’ve dabbled in numerous talents, and loved the experience of getting to know new things and expanding my horizons. The thrill … Continue reading Wanderers – Jay Nair
Tugging My Luggage 