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Feb 24, 2024Almond trees in full bloom, California, USA

In the sun-kissed orchards of the Golden State, almonds reign supreme, enticing the taste buds and adorning the natural surroundings. California grows 80 percent of the world"s commercial supply, and 100 percent of the United States". Almonds have heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and are nutritional powerhouses, packed with fibre, protein and an array of vitamins and minerals. During February and March, in California"s Central Valley, these seeds—not nuts—emerge from the delicate blossoms of the almond tree and mature within a protective, fuzzy hull. These trees, which belong to the rose family, burst into a spectacle of beauty during full bloom, with fragrant flowers painting the orchards in hues of white and pink.Desktop Version

Dec 5, 2023Castles in the Bavarian Alps

The Bavarian Alps, a majestic mountain range in southern Germany, are home to two castles: Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau. Neuschwanstein Castle was commissioned by King Ludwig II of Bavaria in the 19th century. This Romanesque Revival palace is renowned for its fairy-tale-like architecture, towers and breathtaking mountain backdrop. Across the valley, gazing out over Lake Alpsee, is the equally spectacular Hohenschwangau Castle, built by Ludwig II"s father, King Maximilian II of Bavaria. These two castles boast rich interiors, displaying intricate artwork and historical artefacts. Both castles attract millions of visitors every year, offering a glimpse into the opulent past of Bavaria.Desktop Version

Jan 9, 2024Gayathri Reservoir, Karnataka, India

Known for its diverse landscapes, Karnataka is home to several vital water reservoirs that play an important role in sustaining agriculture, providing drinking water, and contributing to overall economic growth. Gayathri Reservoir, nestled in the Hiriyur taluk of Chitradurga, is among the smaller water reservoirs in the area, but the sight of its waters spilling over in times of abundance still draws crowds of spectators. The reservoir was constructed across the Suvarnamukhi River in 1963 and is surrounded by hills and greenery. The shimmering blue waters held within create a serene ambiance, offering a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of urban life.Desktop Version

Twinkle twinkle, little bugs

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Nov 28, 2023Varandha Ghat,Bhor,Maharashtra, India

Maharashtra, a state known for its bustling cities, is also home to some of India"s natural treasures. Though they can be overshadowed by the state"s urban centres, these sites hold a unique charm and offer a different facet of Maharashtra"s beauty. Varandha Ghat, in the Bhor region of Maharashtra, 108 kilometres from Pune, is a part of the Sahyadri mountain range and covers an expanse of 10 kilometres, and offers a mesmerising view of rolling hills, lush green valleys and cascading waterfalls. It is a serene escape that invites nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.Desktop Version

Happy New Year’s from down under

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Jan 15, 2024Makar Sankranti

Observed on January 14—or January 15 on a leap year—the festival of Makar Sankranti marks the entry of the sun into the Capricorn zodiac as well as the end of winter and the return of longer days. The festival, celebrated differently depending on the state, is known by many names, such as Lohri in Punjab, Uttarayana in Gujarat and Pongal in Tamil Nadu. Although it holds regional variations, it is predominantly celebrated by flying kites, symbolic of the sun"s transition. As part of the observance, communities come together to express gratitude for a bountiful harvest. Makar Sankranti is also marked by various fairs across India. Among them is the renowned Kumbha Mela, which occurs every 12 years in holy locations like Haridwar, Prayag, Ujjain and Nashik. Additionally, the Magha Mela, a mini-Kumbh Mela, takes place annually in Prayagraj, while the Gangasagar Mela occurs on the Ganges River.Desktop Version

Jan 16, 2024Lake Louise, Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada

Glimmering in aquamarine tones, Lake Louise rests amid the Canadian Rockies in Alberta"s Banff National Park. The Indigenous Nakoda people refer to the lake as Ho-run-num-nay, meaning "lake of the little fishes." The lake was later named by settlers for the British royal family"s Princess Louise, along with the adjoining town, which has the highest elevation of any Canadian town at 1,586 metres. This glacial lake is accessible throughout the year via the Trans-Canada Highway, and visitors can participate in activities like hiking during the summer and skiing in the winter.Desktop Version

Dec 6, 2023Palolem beach, Goa, India

The Indian state of Goa is renowned for its pristine coastline and serene waters. Among its many gems, Palolem Beach is a mile-long crescent-shaped beach lined with swaying palm trees and colourful houses. Busiest between November and March, the mix of foreign tourists and local fishermen in the adjacent village creates a unique blend of cultures. Palolem is also famous for the diverse activities it offers, including yoga sessions, silent discos and exciting dolphin-spotting excursions. This coastal paradise is the perfect spot for a seaside retreat, offering a range of experiences to cater to every visitor"s preferences.Desktop Version

Feb 14, 2024Vasant Panchmi

Vasant Panchami, also known as Saraswati Puja, is an auspicious Hindu festival that marks the onset of spring in India. The associated festivities vary across regions within religions, with each community adding its own unique flavour to the celebration. The observance of the Vasant Utsava on Panchami itself is strategically timed, aligning with the belief that any season"s transition period spans 40 days. For countless individuals, this occasion is a devoted celebration of the goddess Saraswati, revered as the embodiment of knowledge, language, music and different art representations. Goddess Saraswati stands as a symbol of creative energy and power in its myriad forms, encapsulating both the essence of longing and love. The exuberant celebration extends to culinary customs, where some infuse saffron into rice, creating a golden feast as part of the elaborate rituals.Desktop Version

Jan 18, 2024Pont Alexandre III, Paris, France

Bonjour! Waking up in Paris sounds royal, doesn"t it? Peek through your screen today at the Pont Alexandre III in the magic hour of twilight. Arching over the Seine, the bridge was opened in 1900 and named after the Russian tsar, Alexander III, to commemorate the Franco-Russian Alliance signed in 1891. Befitting the nobility of the event, two 17-metre pylons sit upon each bank of the river, crowned with gilt-bronze sculptures of the winged horse Pegasus. And that"s only at the start of the bridge! From the centre of the bridge, standing above reliefs decorated with nymphs, you can admire the romantic garden and monument of the Esplanade des Invalides on one side of the river and the Grand Palais and Petit Palais museums on the other.Desktop Version

Apr 8, 2024Burrowing owl chicks

In today"s image, we see four burrowing owls in Wyoming, USA, standing near their burrow, looking like a band of mischievous siblings. Known for their distinctive white eyebrows and yellow eyes, these owls are active during the day, hunting insects and small mammals. These resilient species, capable of surviving for at least 9 years in the wild and surpassing 10 years in captivity, face numerous threats in their environment. Predation from various sources, including badgers, coyotes, snakes and both feral and domesticated pets like cats and dogs, poses a constant danger to its survival. The burrowing owl exhibits remarkable adaptive behaviours, such as nesting and roosting in abandoned ground burrows of armadillos, prairie dogs or skunks. When confronted with danger, the owl retreats to these burrows and emits rattling and hissing sounds.Desktop Version

Oct 19, 2023Durga Puja

Durga Puja is a Hindu festival spanning ten days, according to the Hindu calendar. Devotees set up pandals and display huge idols of Goddess Durga along with Saraswati, Lakshmi, Lord Ganesha and Kartikeya. Durga can be seen defeating the demon Mahishasura, symbolising the triumph of good over evil. Each year, as the festival approaches, the atmosphere of Kolkata undergoes a transformation as communities come together to celebrate. Months ahead of the festival artisans construct exquisite idols of the goddess, after which they are meticulously adorned with vibrant clothing as well as jewellery. In December 2021, the United Nations recognised Durga Puja in Kolkata as part of the world"s cultural heritage. It"s now listed as an "Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity" by UNESCO. On the last day of the festival, the clay idols are immersed in the same river from which the earth was sourced along with the beating of drums.Desktop Version

Mar 17, 2024Rameshwaram harbour

Get ready to explore the offbeat charm of Rameswaram Island! Occupying a significant position between peninsular India and Sri Lanka, this island, also known as Pamban Island, is within the Adam"s Bridge (Ram Setu) archipelago. As the second-largest island in the region, it is anchored by the pilgrimage hub of Rameswaram, a bustling town steeped in spiritual significance. Here, spanning across the waters of the Indian Ocean, Pamban Bridge is a vital railway link, connecting the town of Mandapam on mainland India with Rameswaram on the Island. Another wonder covered in today"s snapshot is the quaint town of Dhanushkodi, situated in the embrace of Rameswaram island. This town attracts travellers with its rich history and natural splendour. Once a well inhabited place, it is now a ghost town, though its weather-beaten ruins still make it a must-visit tourist destination.Desktop Version

Jan 2, 2024Prayer flags in Phobjikha Valley, Bhutan

This kaleidoscopic column is a series of prayer flags, blown by the breeze in the Phobjikha Valley, Bhutan. Prayer flags are most commonly hung along a line with five repeating colours, each representing an element in nature. The fluttering fabrics, inscribed with spiritual scripts, are usually raised during times of prosperity, such as on Bhutan"s Nyinlong, their traditional day of solstice, which takes place today. As the flags fade over time, adherents believe this signifies that the prayers have been heard and are being carried away by the wind, infusing the surrounding area with positivity and spirituality. As we see them wave, we can remember that in these dark winter months, there"s literally a brighter tomorrow.Desktop Version

Celebrating Guru Nanak Gurpurab

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Oct 25, 2024Golden Temple, Amritsar

Glistening like a jewel under the sun, the Golden Temple is not just a place of worship—it"s an experience for the soul. A gurudwara in Amritsar, Punjab, it is also known as Sri Darbar Sahib or Sri Harmandir Sahib. The site"s journey began in 1577, when Guru Ram Das, the fourth Sikh Guru, completed the man-made pool surrounding the temple. Fast forward to 1604, and it was the fifth Guru, Guru Arjan, who placed the sacred Adi Granth within the temple, shaping its spiritual significance. Despite facing destruction multiple times at the hands of Mughal and Afghan invaders, the Sikhs showed resilience, rebuilding the temple each time.Desktop Version

Nov 23, 2023Victoria Memorial, Kolkata, India

Kolkata"s Victoria Memorial is a symbol of the city"s rich heritage. Designed by Sir William Emerson and built in the honour of Queen Victoria, it is housed amidst many gardens on the premises of the memorial. The building is much more than just a repository of history, it is a cultural centre, with galleries housing an extensive collection of paintings, manuscripts and artefacts. A perfect example of Indo-Saracenic architecture, it hosts an elegant white marble façade, adorned with delicate sculptures and a soaring central dome. Its fusion of British, Mughal, Venetian, Egyptian and Deccan influences, constructed with white Makrana marble.Desktop Version

Feb 17, 2024Kailasa temple in Ellora caves

Kailasa temple in Ellora Caves near the Aurangabad district of Maharashtra, is celebrated for its colossal size, intricate stone architecture and artistic finesse evident in its sculpture. This temple stretches along a basalt cliff for over two kilometres and is intricately carved. Towering above the surrounding landscape, the sanctuary"s peak reaches an impressive height of 32 metres above the court below. A legend weaves through the stones of Ellora, recounting the tale of a king from Alajapura. After being miraculously cured from a terrible illness by a sacred bath, the king and his queen pledged to construct a temple in honour of Lord Shiva.Desktop Version

Dare to delve into this dense swamp

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Jan 3, 2024Virupaksha temple, Hampi, Karnataka

In the heart of Hampi, on the bank of the Tungabhadra River, the Virupaksha Temple is a stunning stone-crafted structure and the centerpiece of Vijayanagara, India. The temple is a complex combination of intricate Dravidian and Vijayanagara architectural styles, showcasing finely carved pillars, ornate mandapas and a towering gopuram. The superstructure was constructed from brick and mortar, with numerous captivating stucco figures adorning the exterior of the first tier. While there is intricate detail up close, a bit of distance showcases the full spectacle of the building. A highlight of the temple is the Hampi Bazaar—a street market that leads to the temple"s entrance. This lively place is lined with various stalls reminiscent of the historic trade and commerce that flourished in the area.Desktop Version

Mar 1, 2024The holy city of Varanasi

Known for its sacred ghats and bustling alleys, Varanasi is a city on the banks of the Ganges in the northern part of India. Located about 120 kilometres downstream from Prayagraj, at the confluence of the Ganges and Yamuna rivers, it is a major pilgrimage site for Hindu spirituality and tradition. The mighty Ganges is said to have originated in Lord Shiva"s hair and grown into the revered river that flows through Varanasi today. Along with Sarnath, the city has stood as a venerable centre of education and civilisation for over three millennia. Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya founded the largest university in Asia, the Banaras Hindu University in this city, and the Theosophical Society, led by Annie Besant, also operated in Varanasi. Rightly referred to as the cultural capital of India, Varanasi continues to be a thriving platform for the flourishing of various artistic endeavours, including music, dance and philosophy.Desktop Version

Oct 21, 2023Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur

As the sun sets, casting a warm glow on the city of Jodhpur in Rajasthan, India, a magical view unfolds. Amidst this scene stands Mehrangarh Fort, housed atop a rocky hill. This fort was the seat of power for the Rathore dynasty, witnessing both victory and challenges. The current architecture was developed over 500 years, starting with its foundation by then-ruler Rao Jodha in 1459.Desktop Version

Sep 3, 2024Crystal Lake in the Enchantments, Washington, United States

Pictured in today"s image, Crystal Lake is in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness in Washington, United States. The Enchantments is more than 24 kilometres southwest of the charming Bavarian-themed town of Leavenworth. It"s considered one of the Cascade Range"s most stunning areas. The Enchantments is home to more than 700 lakes and ponds and some of the best rock climbing in the Western United States. It"s also home to mountain goats, ptarmigan, pikas and numerous types of alpine flowers. If you want to see Alpine Lakes Wilderness yourself, however, be prepared to wait. Few permits are granted for day hikes, and of the 40,000 people who entered last year"s lottery for overnight permits, only 2,558 received one.Desktop Version

Dec 9, 2023India gate, New Delhi, India

India Gate, a grand war memorial in New Delhi designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens, commemorates the Indian soldiers who lost their lives during World War I. It features the names of the more than 13,500 soldiers who fell on the Northwestern Frontier in 1919. Under the gate is the eternal flame, known as the Amar Jawan Jyoti, which honours the unknown soldiers of the 1971 Indo-Pakistan War. The India Gate was unveiled in 1931 by the Duke of Connaught. The 42-metre-high arch, reminiscent of the Parisian Arc de Triomphe, stands at the end of the Rajpath, connecting it with the Rashtrapati Bhavan. The memorial has become a symbol of national unity and a site for various commemorations, including Republic Day parades.Desktop Version

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