For lunch, we headed to "Flavour Of Southvala" in Karol Bagh. Despite the cramped seating, the food was exceptional. We shared a Paper Tosai, a Non-Vegetarian Thali Set, and India's beloved Bru Coffee. The curries were rich and flavorful, thanks to the spices used, and the presentation was appetizing - unlike some eateries that overlook the importance of plating. This meal was a clear winner, making up for the less enjoyable dining experiences elsewhere (CHENNAI & KODAIKANAL).
This monument holds two prestigious recognitions. It was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 for its cultural and architectural brilliance. It also remains one of the New 7 Wonders of the World, a title awarded in 2007 through a global poll.
Taj Mahal History
Commissioned in 1632 by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as a mausoleum for his wife Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj Mahal stands as a symbol of love and loss. It took over 20 years to complete and involved thousands of skilled artisans and craftsmen from across the empire and beyond. The structure is known for its white marble finish, detailed stone inlays, and precise symmetry.
The charbagh-style gardens, the long water channels, and the central dome form a layout that reflects balance and order. From every angle, the monument presents a different visual - shaped by light, shadow, and sky (TOURIST SPOTS IN KERALA, INDIA).
How
It Begins at the Taj Mahal
A visit begins with purchasing a ticket.
If you’re with a tour group, it’s handled for you. Otherwise, tickets are
available at the counters or online. Queues are long, especially during peak
hours.
Security checks are strict. Bags, personal
items, and even water bottles are screened. Large bags and food items aren’t
allowed. It’s best to keep your belongings minimal.
Once you’re cleared, you can choose to walk or ride a battery-operated cart toward the main entrance. Either way, there’s more walking ahead (HOKKAIDO JAPAN WINTER SIGHTSEEING).
Tour
Guide Reality
As soon as you step through the entrance
and face the Taj Mahal, your guide’s voice may get drowned out, not literally,
but by the rush of people aiming for photos and better views. It’s a moment
where visitors want to get their shot before the crowds swell.
Once the photo rush settles, the guide usually resumes with historical background and facts. Whether you listen or not depends on how much you want to know beyond what you see.
Some visitors focus on the architecture,
others on the story behind it. Most just move from one spot to another,
snapping photos, reading the expressions of fellow travelers, and walking the
paths around the monument and gardens.
Inside the mausoleum, photography is restricted. The mood changes. It’s quieter, more orderly. People pause, move along, and step back outside.
How Much Time to Spend
There’s no fixed time limit, but generally, visitors spend around 2 to 4 hours. That’s enough to cover the walk-through, photo stops, the inner chamber, and a stroll in the gardens.
The crowd is steady. Whether it’s morning or evening, weekday or weekend, the flow of people doesn’t stop. Expect to see families, school groups, solo travelers, couples, locals and internationals alike.
Be prepared. Wear comfortable shoes, stay hydrated, and don’t rush. For many, this is a one-time visit. And one visit is enough to remember the experience.
But Jaipur isn’t without its chaos - expect traffic jams, narrow roads, and heavy crowds, especially during tourist season. Yet, beneath the bustle lies a beautiful city filled with history, culture, and unforgettable sights (KERALA INDIA SIGHTSEEING).
In North India, one of the most meaningful and enriching places to visit is Varanasi. Often referred to as the spiritual capital of India, Varanasi draws millions of visitors from all walks of life. For Hindus, the city holds deep religious significance for paying homage to the gods. For other travellers, it’s about experiencing Varanasi.
The van arrived with my new travel buddies and our Thai lady guide, a humble and amazing soul. Thrilled to explore (HOKKAIDO WANDERLUST), we headed to Mae Sai. After our guide handled the permits at the border, the real adventure began. The sun was blazing, but I didn’t care - I was too pumped. Crossing the border, I was hit by the raw energy of everyday life. People hustled about, street vendors manned their stalls, and no one gave us a second glance. Our guide filled us in on Tachileik and our stops (KOCHI KALEISCOPE).
Kumbalangi Chinese Fishing Village
Kumbalangi, known as India’s first model tourism village, is famous for its “cheena vala” - Chinese fishing nets. Introduced by Chinese traders centuries ago, these nets still stand as a symbol of traditional fishing methods in Kerala. The area is calm, surrounded by backwaters, and gives a feel of how the local fishing community lives. We saw coir making and crab farming demonstrations. Most of the time, we were just standing around observing. Street vendors were around too, selling snacks and small items on the roadside (ALLEPPEY BOAT CRUISE).
Dutch Palace/Mattancherry Palace
We started in Mattancherry. The area is a mix of old buildings, shops, and narrow streets. It’s a place for browsing - clothes, souvenirs, local snacks, and spices are available in small stores. One main attraction here is the Dutch Palace, also called Mattancherry Palace. It was built by the Portuguese and later renovated by the Dutch before being handed over to the local ruler.
Winged beans - also known as four-angled beans, four-winged beans, or kacang botol in Bahasa Malaysia, are a popular vegetable in Malaysian ...
