Travel NEXT – Travel PEN

The Ayodhya Ram Temple

Culture Desk — Thu, 16 Jul 2026 17:03:41 +0000

A Timeless Symbol of Faith, Heritage, and Architecture

The Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya has emerged as one of India’s most significant spiritual and cultural landmarks. The consecration (Pran Pratishtha) of the idol of Ram Lalla on 22 January 2024 marked a historic milestone, drawing millions of devotees and placing Ayodhya firmly among the world’s most important pilgrimage destinations.

Today, the magnificent temple is not only a sacred place of worship but also an architectural masterpiece and the centerpiece of Ayodhya’s remarkable transformation into a modern religious tourism hub.

An Architectural Marvel

Designed by renowned temple architect Chandrakant Sompura, whose family has designed several iconic temples across India, the Ram Temple follows the traditional Nagara style of North Indian temple architecture.

Following the Supreme Court’s 2019 verdict, the original design was expanded to create a larger and more elaborate temple complex. Some of its notable architectural features include:

Grand Scale: The temple spans three magnificent floors and is nearly twice the size of the original proposal.
Five Majestic Mandapas: The structure features five beautifully designed domes (mandapas), enhancing both its visual grandeur and its capacity to welcome large numbers of pilgrims.
Built for Centuries: In keeping with ancient Indian engineering traditions, the temple has been constructed without the use of steel or iron. Massive interlocking stone blocks ensure exceptional durability, with the structure designed to stand for over a thousand years.
Exquisite Stone Carvings: Crafted primarily from pink sandstone sourced from Bansi Paharpur in Rajasthan, the temple showcases intricate carvings depicting deities, floral motifs, and scenes inspired by Indian mythology.

The Historical Journey

Ayodhya has long been revered in Hindu tradition as the birthplace of Lord Rama. The temple site was also the focus of a decades-long legal and historical dispute involving the former Babri Masjid, a 16th-century mosque that was demolished in 1992.

In November 2019, the Supreme Court of India delivered its final judgment, awarding the disputed land to the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust for the construction of the Ram Temple. The court also directed that an alternative five-acre plot be allocated elsewhere in Ayodhya for the construction of a mosque, bringing the lengthy legal process to a close.

Ayodhya’s Remarkable Transformation

The development of the Ram Temple has sparked an unprecedented revival of Ayodhya, turning the ancient city into one of India’s fastest-growing pilgrimage and tourism destinations.

Modern Infrastructure

To accommodate the growing number of visitors, Ayodhya has undergone extensive infrastructure development, including:

Maharishi Valmiki International Airport, providing improved air connectivity.
A newly redeveloped Ayodhya Dham Railway Station, inspired by traditional temple architecture.
Wider roads, improved public spaces, enhanced transport facilities, and upgraded visitor amenities throughout the city.

A Thriving Tourism Economy

The steady influx of pilgrims and tourists has fueled rapid growth in the local economy. New hotels, guesthouses, restaurants, shopping areas, and tourism-related businesses have transformed Ayodhya into a vibrant destination while creating employment opportunities and supporting regional development.

A Must-Visit Spiritual Destination

Whether you are visiting for spiritual reasons, architectural appreciation, or cultural exploration, the Ayodhya Ram Temple offers an unforgettable experience. Its magnificent design, deep historical significance, and the city’s renewed energy make it one of India’s most compelling travel destinations.

As the larger temple complex continues to develop, the Ram Temple stands as a landmark of devotion, craftsmanship, and heritage—welcoming visitors from across India and around the world to experience the timeless spirit of Ayodhya.

Kearalam

Culture Desk — Thu, 26 Mar 2026 15:13:15 +0000

Nature, Culture, and Tradition

Located on the southwestern coast of India, Keralam proudly carries the tourism tagline “God’s Own Country”—a phrase that beautifully captures its extraordinary blend of lush landscapes, vibrant traditions, and rich cultural heritage. From tranquil backwaters to lively festivals, Kerala offers a diverse travel experience that attracts both domestic and international visitors.

Kerala stands as a striking example of how nature, culture, and tradition can coexist in harmony. Whether it is the serenity of its backwaters, the vibrancy of its festivals, the richness of its cuisine, or the elegance of its arts, the state offers an immersive experience that leaves a lasting impression. For travelers and culture enthusiasts alike, every journey through Kerala feels like a story waiting to be discovered.

Tourism Destinations

Kerala’s tourism landscape is a blend of hidden gems and globally recognized destinations. Among the most famous on the world tourism map are Munnar, the Vembanad backwaters, Kovalam, and Wayanad—regions known for rolling tea and coffee plantations, misty valleys, and refreshing climates. Alappuzha, renowned for its tranquil backwaters and palm-fringed houseboat cruises, is equally captivating.

On a larger scale, Kochi stands out as a historic port city that seamlessly blends colonial heritage with modern urban life. Meanwhile, the state capital, Thiruvananthapuram, offers cultural landmarks, museums, and easy access to pristine beaches such as Kovalam.

Beyond these popular destinations, quieter locations like Mahe and Varkala provide peaceful escapes, featuring cliffs, unique rock formations, and spiritual retreats that highlight Kerala’s diverse natural beauty.

Festivals

Kerala’s festivals are vibrant celebrations of unity and tradition, reflecting the spirit of its people. The most iconic is Onam, celebrated with intricate floral arrangements (pookalam), traditional feasts, and the famous snake boat races on the Pampa River. Vishu, marking the Malayalam New Year, is another major festival observed with rituals, auspicious displays, and fireworks.

Temple festivals—especially the grand Thrissur Pooram—are spectacular events featuring decorated elephants, rhythmic percussion ensembles, and dazzling fireworks. These celebrations not only express religious devotion but also foster a strong sense of community and artistic expression. Other notable festivities include Aarattu Mahotsavam, Theyyam performances in Malabar, and the Malayattoor pilgrimage.

A Feast of Flavours

Kerala’s cuisine is a delightful blend of spices, coconut, and fresh local ingredients. The traditional sadya, served on a banana leaf, is a vegetarian feast featuring dishes such as aviyal, sambar, and payasam. Seafood lovers can enjoy delicacies like karimeen (pearl spot fish), while staples such as appam and puttu highlight the region’s culinary uniqueness.

The generous use of coconut oil, curry leaves, and aromatic spices gives Kerala food its distinctive flavor, making it both delicious and deeply rooted in local traditions.

Expressions of Heritage

Kerala’s artistic traditions are among the oldest and most refined in India. Kathakali, a classical dance-drama, is renowned for its elaborate costumes, intricate makeup, and expressive storytelling. Mohiniyattam, with its graceful and fluid movements, offers a contrasting yet equally captivating experience.

Other traditional art forms, such as Ottam Thullal and Vanchipattu (boat songs), reflect the cultural vibrancy of the region. Folk performances like Theyyam, especially prominent in North Kerala, bring mythology and spirituality to life. These art forms are not merely performances but living traditions passed down through generations.

Sports

Sports in Kerala range from traditional games to modern athletics. The thrilling Vallamkali (snake boat races), especially during the Onam season, are unique sporting events that showcase teamwork, precision, and cultural pride.

Indigenous martial arts such as Kalaripayattu are considered among the oldest fighting systems in the world, combining physical agility with discipline and tradition.

In contemporary sports, football holds a special place in the hearts of Keralites, supported by passionate fans and vibrant local leagues. Cricket and athletics also enjoy widespread popularity across the state.

Kerala continues to enchant visitors with its seamless blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and timeless traditions—making it not just a destination, but an unforgettable experience.

The Indian government has officially changed the name Kerala to Keralam, so if you see it written as Keralam, it is a new linguistic change.

Payanangal Mudivathillai — Journeys Never End

Dhanya — Tue, 17 Mar 2026 10:14:57 +0000

“Travels never end” — perhaps that is the quiet dream every traveler carries within.
As we climb Kattukunnu, someone inevitably hums that familiar line — “The wind here is the wind… the snow is the snow…” And suddenly, the hill is no longer just a place; it becomes a feeling. Wrapped in wind, rain, mist, and bursts of sunlight, Kattukunnu fills both the eyes and the heart. The breeze seems to whisper gently, “Here you are, my child…” as it wipes away the sweat of the climb.
Nestled beside the vast expanse of Banasura Sagar Dam, Katakunnu stands quietly, holding stories within its slopes. Wayanad’s backroads are never empty of tales — myths of Banasura himself, and the haunting legend of a whiteman, a madam, and a dog, turned to stone by a tribal curse. Every step here feels like walking through layered time.
This trek had lived in my mind for long. Either I couldn’t find the right people to share the journey with, or when I did, the trek would dissolve into something else entirely — like a Ganpati wedding. Then, one day, I came across the ‘Idam’ group’s trek. There was something about it — a vibe. A complete, undeniable vibe. With exams just over and work beginning to pile up, I signed up without hesitation.
But May had other plans — a broken arm. The real struggle wasn’t the injury, but the chorus of concern from home. “Don’t go and come back with more broken limbs,” they warned. Still, a voice from across continents — Shanu’s — cut through the noise:
“If something is meant to break, it will break even at home. You didn’t break your arm on a mountain, but walking to a car. You’ll be fine. Go.”
And so, I waited.
Sunday, 6 a.m. Chandruvettan arrived. By 7, the four of us reached Janakeeyam Hotel in Padinjarathara. Over plates of noolputtu and egg curry, fellow travellers slowly gathered — Augusty and his friends, Shajil’s group from Kozhikode, Saritha and Shinojettan, and finally Ali Azhar — the closest one, yet the last to arrive.
After breakfast, with lunch packed, we headed to the ticket counter. Only 70 people are allowed each day — a small mercy for the mountain. By 9 a.m., we began.
Our guides, Omana chechi and Rajan chettan, led us forward.
The trek opened with a steep concrete climb — almost like a test. Then came the forest. Two kilometers of breathing green. The soft patter of unseen rain, the distant rush of waterfalls, and the strange, immersive silence of the wild. Somewhere below, streams flowed unseen, their music rising through the trees.
And then — the leeches.
They wait quietly, in all shapes and sizes. Ignore them, and you’ll soon notice thin trails of blood marking your path. But there’s a strange acceptance to it. No fear, really. No one dies from leeches — except perhaps the over-imaginative, or the unlucky few like me who worry about infections.
The beauty of nature here feels almost excessive — as if the line “wherever you look, there are photo points” needs only a slight correction. Everywhere the eye rests becomes a frame. Everywhere the heart pauses becomes a memory. As the saying goes, what is heard is sweet, what is unheard is even sweeter — and here, we walked through that sweetness, wrapped in endless shades of green and quiet coolness.
Banasura Hills rise as a part of the ancient Western Ghats, holding within them both geography and myth. From their heights, we could see the catchment areas feeding Banasura Sagar Dam — the largest earthen dam in India, and one of the largest in Asia.
When Omana chechi pointed to a distant stretch and said that part of Kakkayam dam lay hidden under mist, a sudden memory surfaced — of an old aged father (Echaravarrier , father of Rajan who was killed in Kakkayam during emergency period) silenced during the The Emergency, and of a grieving voice asking, “Why do you leave my son in the rain, even after he is gone?”
How strange — how powerful — that a single word can open entire worlds within us.
The hills themselves seemed to whisper older stories. Of Banasura, son of Mahabali, the thousand-armed king who performed penance for Shiva, and was blessed with divine guardianship. Of his daughter Usha, who fell in love with Aniruddha, the grandson of Krishna. Of love, imprisonment, war, and eventual union.
I remembered a priest at Ukhimath, near Kedarnath, telling me that Usha and Aniruddha were married there. How far stories travel. How deeply beliefs root themselves across landscapes.
The sun that had been walking with us all morning suddenly withdrew. Rain arrived — swift and certain. We slipped into our raincoats like creatures returning to their shells. Then came laughter. Songs. Movement. We danced with the rain.
A group from Thrissur joined in, and soon the hills echoed with rhythm. At moments, the wind grew so fierce that we stood close together, as if anchoring one another against being carried away. From one hill we moved to another — and somewhere along that crossing, mist began to fall like soft snow, brushing past us as if the mountains themselves were breathing.
After lunch, rain returned. This time heavier. I felt a slight dizziness, even after shedding the weight of the raincoat. But the songs continued — that steady human insistence to celebrate, even in exhaustion.
Then again — the mist. The almost-snow. The quiet signal that it was time to return.
I walked back along the same path, but not as the same person. The trail was now lined with new memories, new friendships, new silences. Every shade of green, every whisper of wind, every drop of rain seemed to murmur something familiar.
Tat Tvam Asi- That is you.
On the way back, we stopped at Meenmutty Waterfalls. I stepped into the stream, its pebbled bed steady beneath my feet. The cold rose through my body, and something within me softened. My eyes filled — not with sadness, but with something unnamed.
Like a line from Balachandran Chullikkad —
“The tulsi drowns in rainbow water; I am as pure as a leaf.”
It was time to leave. Back to the car. Back to the world we had briefly stepped away from.
And then, like a quiet companion, came a thought from M Basheer:
“Some long for a forest, some for a tree, some for a leaf.”
I sat with that for a while.
And wondered —
what is it that I long for?

Thadiyandamol : One Step at a Time

Culture Desk — Mon, 23 Feb 2026 15:44:57 +0000

When I signed up for the Thadiyandamol trek with the Idam group, I believed it was a “short” one. Only later did I discover that “short” meant fourteen kilometers. By then, it was too late to retreat — or so I thought.

At 4 a.m., the alarm pierced the silence. I pushed aside the blanket, and winter rushed in like an uninvited guest. The cold wrapped itself around me so completely that I immediately made a firm decision: I was not going anywhere. I slipped back under the blanket.

Then Shanu called.

“Are you ready?”

Strangely, I was. Or perhaps I could be. Within minutes, I stepped back into the cold, woke my siblings in the next room, and somehow gathered myself enough to reach Meenangadi (Wayanad) before dawn.

The traveler arrived at five. Ranjith and Subhashettan jumped out into the biting air as if it were nothing. I, on the other hand, shivered my way inside the vehicle. Around ten or fifteen others were already seated, laughing and chatting as though this early morning chill was merely decorative. I wanted to join them, to dissolve my hesitation in their warmth, but the cold reduced me to silence. I curled up and drifted back to sleep.

The road stretched ahead for nearly four hours. We paused to fill petrol. We stopped at the iron bridge in Mananthavady (Wayanad) for tea and food. I remember black tea warming my hands, the sweetness of unniyappam from a roadside shop, fragments of conversation, and the comforting rhythm of sleep in between. Each time I opened my eyes, I wondered whether I had overestimated myself.

But then it was breakfast time. Bread. Egg. A spoonful of kappa with fish curry. Tea again. Strength returned in small, humble portions.

By around 9:30, we reached the base of Thadiyandamol in Karnataka. Names were entered in a register, phone numbers noted, entry forms filled. With that simple act of writing, we committed ourselves to the mountain.

The trail welcomed us with a carpet of fallen leaves — yellow, green, even hints of purple. They reminded me of the postcards my friend Lin Savia sends from Switzerland. The wind lifted a few and brushed them against my face, as if blessing the journey.

Soon the cold softened into sunlight. One by one, sweaters and shawls found their way into our backpacks. Layers shed, both outside and within.

I began to know the people around me — not in dramatic ways, but through small kindnesses. Apples sliced and shared by Anoop’s wife. A tiffin box lent by Kunjumon. Biscuits passed around without ceremony. Somewhere between the bites and the banter, strangers turned into companions.

The climb was deceptive. Many hills pretended to be the summit. Each time we thought we had arrived, another rise appeared ahead. Yet the real peak waited patiently, visible in the distance, calling us onward.

Poet Madhusudhanan Nair kept repeating, “One step, one step to reach the top.” And that became our rhythm.

When we finally stood at the summit, the reward unfolded in every direction — a full 360-degree embrace of sky and land. Endless green. Stretches of yellow. Rolling hills dissolving into horizon. It felt like standing at the edge of something ancient and immeasurable.

In that vastness, I remembered the words of Balachandran Chullikkad:

“On the rock of this moment, we build the temple of time…
In this gaze, we see life.
What is our meaning other than us?”

Up there, the lines did not feel like poetry. They felt like truth.

No photograph could hold what the eyes witnessed. I thought of Kolukkumalai. Of Chembra. Of Pakshipathalam. Each mountain carries its own silence, its own language. Thadiyanramol spoke in wind.

There was no shade on the open top — not even the shadow of a crow’s wing. We searched and finally found a vine-like shelter to sit and eat. Food packets opened. Laughter resumed. Inside that small patch of coolness, we forgot the sun blazing just beyond.

After lunch, I handed a copy of my book to Rajeshettan — a quiet exchange, witnessed by fellow travelers and the sky itself. A few photographs followed, proof that we had stood there, though the memory needed no proof.

Then came the descent.

Strangely, going down felt harder than climbing up. Knees trembled. Steps required caution. But the mountain sent a breeze with every stride, cooling and steadying us. We walked along paths carved by countless others before us — rocks polished smooth, tree roots worn gentle by time and footsteps.

KGS once said that the ocean feels vast simply by seeing it. Likewise, these paths must have grown vast by walking.

And so we walked — step by step — carrying back not just tired muscles, but something quieter and deeper: the knowledge that some journeys begin with hesitation, pass through doubt, and end in wonder.

Dhanya Indu

Wayanad: The ultimate getaway for adventure lovers

Travel PEN — Fri, 23 Jan 2026 02:20:09 +0000

-Team Travel PEN

Kochi: Nestled in the verdant hills of Kerala, Wayanad offers a beautiful glimpse into the embrace of nature, and Wayanad is sure to captivate all travel enthusiasts.

With sprawling tea gardens, spice plantations, coffee plantations, cardamom plantations, and paddy fields, the region is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight for the senses. When travelers want to explore this hidden gem, a powerful trip planner can help them maximize their experience.

Find the best routes from Kalpetta, the capital city of Wayanad, to nearby tourist destinations, accommodation options, culinary delights, and in-depth plantation visits.

A journey through nature

Wayanad’s diverse landscape is a treasure trove for adventure seekers and those seeking tranquility alike. The main town of Kalpetta serves as an ideal base for exploring nearby attractions such as the breathtaking Banasura Sagar Dam, the awe-inspiring Edakkal Caves, and the tranquil waterfalls at Meenmutty and Soochipara. The condition of the roads is generally good, with scenic routes winding through lush green hills and valleys—a sight to behold no matter the season. According to local travel expert Anjali Nair, “Wayanad is a microcosm of Kerala’s natural beauty—lush hills, sprawling plantations, and cultural richness. But it is essential for travelers to plan their itinerary to make the most of their visit. A balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and local experiences is key.

Major Tourist Attractions

1. Banasura Sagar Dam

One of the largest earthen dams in India, this vast dam is ideal for picnics and adventure activities. Boating, trekking, and nature walks are popular among visitors.

2. Edakkal Caves

Famous for its ancient rock carvings, the Edakkal Caves are a must-see for history buffs. Trekking to the caves offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding scenery.

3. Suchipara Falls

Located about 13 km from Kalpetta, this three-tiered waterfall, surrounded by dense forests, is an adventure destination perfect for trekking and swimming.

4. Tea and Coffee Estates

A trip to Wayanad is incomplete without a visit to its famous plantations. Visitors can tour through beautiful tea and coffee estates that allow them to learn about the cultivation and processing of these aromatic crops.

5. Cardamom Plantations

The region is famous for its high-quality cardamom. Tourists can interact with local farmers, watch the harvesting process, and enjoy cardamom-infused delicacies.

Lodging and Culinary Experiences

Wayanad has a range of accommodations, from luxury resorts to budget homestays. Popular choices include village resorts that offer an eco-friendly experience, to more traditional homestays that allow visitors to immerse themselves in the local culture.

Wayanad’s foodie experiences are as diverse as its landscape. Local eateries offer Wayanadan (Kerala/Malabar) cuisine, serving dishes like Wayanad red rice, puttu (steamed rice cake), appam (rice pancake), and karimeen pollichathut (fish grilled in banana leaves). Foodies can also take part in cooking classes and learn how to prepare traditional dishes using locally sourced ingredients.

Route Navigation from Kalpetta

From Kalpetta, the capital of Wayanad, travelers can easily reach popular destinations by taking local taxis, autorickshaws, or rental bikes, a favorite choice for adventure seekers. The roads are well-marked, with signage available in both English and Malayalam, making the journey more accessible.

For those who want a shorter itinerary, consider these routes

One-day trip: Explore the Edakkal caves, then visit the Banasura Sagar dam for a relaxing dip in the water.

Two-day trip: Trek to Soochipara waterfalls in the morning, and enjoy a local tea plantation in the afternoon.

Three-day trip: Visit Thirunelli forests if not Muthanga

Wayanad is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers, but it is essential to travel responsibly. Sustainable tourism practices should be adopted to preserve the natural beauty of Wayanad. Eco-friendly practices are increasingly being promoted by local governments, and visitors are encouraged to respect the environment and local culture.

Wayanad’s flora and fauna are fragile. Visitors should ensure that their experiences do not harm the delicate ecosystem. Sustainable tourism is necessary to ensure that future generations can enjoy this paradise.

Things to Remember: As Wayanad attracts tourists from all over the world, a well-thought-out trip planner is essential to make the most of this beautiful place. With its stunning natural scenery, rich culture, and immersive experiences in tea, coffee, and cardamom plantations, Wayanad offers an unforgettable escape. Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation, or a taste of local life, this beautiful region offers an unforgettable journey.

Kashmiri Festivals 2026

Culture Desk — Wed, 07 Jan 2026 16:45:25 +0000

The Soul of the Valley: A Guide to Kashmiri Festivals in 2026

Kashmir is often described as “Paradise on Earth,” not just for its snow-capped peaks and sapphire lakes, but for its rich, lived heritage. In 2026, the valley’s calendar is a testament to resilience and unity, featuring a unique blend of spiritual devotion, culinary art, and seasonal celebrations.

🌸 Spring Awakening: New Beginnings

Spring in Kashmir is more than a season; it is a rebirth. As the snow melts, the valley erupts in color and prayer.

Herath (Maha Shivaratri) | February 15, 2026

While the rest of India celebrates Shivaratri with fasting, Kashmiri Pandits celebrate Herath with a grand feast.

Unique Ritual: The Watak Nath pooja involves decorating earthen pitchers. Unlike elsewhere, non-vegetarian dishes like Gad (fish) and Roganjosh are offered to the deity.
The Walnut Blessing: Walnuts soaked in water are distributed as Prasad, symbolizing the cycle of life.

Navreh (Kashmiri New Year) | March 19, 2026

Marking the first day of the Saptarishi era, Navreh is celebrated with the Navreh Thaal—a ceremonial platter prepared the night before.

Inside the Thaal: Family members look into the platter at dawn to see symbolic items: rice for abundance, a mirror for retrospection, a pen for wisdom, and a bitter herb (Wye) to represent life’s hardships.

The Tulip Festival | March 29–April 5, 2026

Srinagar’s Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden, the largest in Asia, hosts this floral extravaganza. Over 1.5 million tulips bloom against the Zabarwan Range, drawing thousands of travelers to witness the “Rainbow on Earth.”

🌙 Spiritual Devotion & Communal Harmony

The summer months in Kashmir are defined by spiritual gatherings that often blur religious lines.

Eid-ul-Fitr & Eid-ul-Adha

Eid-ul-Fitr (March 21, 2026):* Marks the end of Ramadan. The Hazratbal Shrine in Srinagar becomes the focal point, where thousands gather for prayers.
Eid-ul-Adha (May 27–28, 2026):* The “Festival of Sacrifice,” celebrated with the sharing of meat and the preparation of elaborate family meals.

Mela Kheer Bhawani | June 22, 2026

Held at the temple of Ragnya Devi in Tulmulla, this is perhaps the greatest symbol of Kashmiriyat.

Festival	Date (2026)	Significance
Shab-i-Miraj	Jan 17	Night of the Prophet’s Ascension
Nowruz	March 21	Persian New Year / Arrival of Spring
Urs Shah-i-Hamdan	May 23	Commemorating the saint who brought Islam to Kashmir
Amarnath Yatra	July–August	Annual pilgrimage to the holy cave
Urs Sheikh-ul-Alam	October 8	Honoring Kashmir’s patron saint (Nund Rishi)