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Feb 1, 2024Aýna, Albacete, Spain

Snow might not be the first thing that pops into your mind when thinking about Spain, but thanks to its diverse landscapes from high peaks and warm beaches, Spain has it all. Featured in today"s image, the tiny village of Aýna—with a population of less than 1,000—lies in the steep valley carved by the river Mundo in the Sierra del Segura mountain range. Because of its snow-capped mountains during the winter months, the town is frequently called Manchegan Switzerland—with "Manchegan" referring to the autonomous community of Castile-La Mancha that Aýna is a part of. About 242 kilometres south of the capital, Madrid, Ayna offers a unique glimpse into Spanish village life.Desktop Version

Apr 26, 2024Mangrove islands near Kundapura, Karnataka

Pictured here are mangroves, resilient shrubs or trees, thriving in the challenging environments of coastal saline or brackish waters. These shrubs, known for their intricate network of stilt roots, play a crucial ecological role. Acting as "green shields," they provide essential protection against coastal erosion and help mitigate the potentially catastrophic effects of natural calamities. Having evolved unique mechanisms to absorb additional oxygen and expel salt, they endure conditions that are fatal to most flora. Their intricate salt filtration and robust roots enable them to withstand saltwater submersion and wave impact, while thriving in the low-oxygen mud of the intertidal zone"s upper regions. Analysis of satellite imagery in 2014 has unveiled this hidden ecological treasure along Karnataka"s coast. Despite mangroves being traditionally associated with India"s east coast, Karnataka boasts a significant expanse of these vibrant saline-water ecosystems.Desktop Version

Sep 4, 2023Whale shark, Ningaloo Reef, Western Australia

Say hello to the largest fish in the world, the whale shark. These gentle giants are not related to whales, despite their impressive size of an average 12 metres in length. Whale sharks are calm creatures that are usually safe for divers to swim alongside. These sharks are filter feeders and consume plankton and small fish by sieving them through their gill plates. There has been a significant decline in their populations, with an estimated 63% decrease in their numbers in the last 75 years. Threats include being hit by boats or tangled in fishing gear and their habitats are being damaged by pollution, coastal development and over-fishing. Advocates work through education and community engagement to help safeguard whale sharks and preserve our oceans.Desktop Version

Nov 17, 2023Copper Falls State Park, Wisconsin, USA

Pictured here is Copper Falls State Park in Wisconsin. From a 27-kilometre trail along the Bad River to waterfalls and ancient lava flows, this park has a lot to offer. The park derives its name from the stunning waterfalls along the Bad River, which flows through volcanic rock. Whether it"s a rugged mountain path, a serene forest walks or an oceanside stroll, this country has a trail waiting for you. Hiking trails, such as the Doughboys Nature Trail and Red Granite Falls Trail, offer access to awe-inspiring views, dense forests and the ancient lava formations that define the park"s geology.Desktop Version

Oct 9, 2023Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, India

Deep in the heart of India, among the many majestic hill forts of the country, sits the Gwalior Fort, proudly occupying the colossal rocky hill known as Gopachal. Crafted initially from the enduring combination of sandstone and lime mortar, this fort reigns as one of Gwalior"s most distinguished landmarks. Its history stretches far back, marked by sieges and conquests by a procession of rulers throughout the ages. At a certain juncture, the Gwalior Fort stood as an impregnable bastion in the heart of northern and central India. A symbol of military might that harbors a multitude of temples, each bearing the unique imprint of various kings from different eras.Desktop Version

Mar 26, 2024Vinh Hy Bay, Vietnam

Welcome to Hang Rai, a blend of ancient rock formations and vibrant coral reefs! Also called Rai Cave, this cavern is part of the Vinh Hy Bay—enclosed by Nui Chua National Park—in the South-Central Coast region of Vietnam. The area"s natural coral reefs are surrounded by rock formations, that are carefully stacked upon each other to form a group of caves. One origin of the name "Hang Rai" or "Rai Cave" comes from otters (rai) that were occasionally seen seeking shelter in the cave. Another explanation is attributed to the abundance of rai trees in the area, whose oil was used to waterproof boats. The landscape has an awe-inspiring sight both under and above water: colourful corals for deep divers and a scenic sunset for those who like camping in the sea breeze.Desktop Version

May 1, 2024Maharashtra Day

Let us turn the pages of history to the formation of Maharashtra! Commemorating the state"s birth on May 1, 1960, Maharashtra Day is celebrated annually with parades, political addresses, ceremonies and many other public and private gatherings. Following the enactment of the Bombay Reorganisation Act, 1960, the boundaries of Maharashtra and Gujarat were decided based on languages spoken in different areas of the region. Being India"s second-most populous states, and one of its most industrialised, Maharashtra is split into 36 districts and 6 divisions.Desktop Version

The dawn of a new beginning

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Dec 20, 2023Val Gardena, South Tyrol, Dolomites, Italy

The Val Gardena valley in Northern Italy is renowned as a tourist destination for skiing, rock climbing and woodcarving enthusiasts. Don"t let the model village appearance fool you, Val Gardena is a real, yet magical site in the Dolomites of South Tyrol that transforms into a place known as Christmas Valley during the festive season. Wooden huts open their doors to visitors, and a nostalgic cable car ride, each cabin adorned with twinkling fairy lights, travels above the Christmas Village. During the 18th century, the valley became famous for its production of statuettes and intricately carved wooden figurines, which were initially crafted to decorate Catholic churches. Amongst those creations, the peg wooden doll emerged as one of Val Gardena"s best-known products and is still being produced today.Desktop Version

Mar 9, 2025Kedarkantha, Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand

One of India"s most sought-after destinations, the Kedarkantha peak is a trekker"s paradise, renowned for its snow-covered trails. In the Govind Pashu Vihar National Park of Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, this mountain peak stands at 3,800 metres. What sets this spot apart is its exhilarating summit climb, which attracts countless trekkers to the Indian Himalayas. The forests surrounding Kedarkantha are dominated by towering pine trees, with deodar, oak and rhododendron adding to the region"s greenery. The rare blue poppy and other blooms bring colour to the terrain. This area is also home to species like the Himalayan snow cock, kala titar, chakor, magpie, thrush, paradise flycatcher, parakeet and bulbul. Beyond its avian residents, the region shelters a variety of wildlife, including the elusive Himalayan black bear. Marmots and various other rodents also inhabit this zone, while leopards, tigers, barking deer (kakar) and sambhar occasionally make an appearance.Desktop Version

Feb 2, 2025Alappuzha, Kerala

Tucked away in the state of Kerala, Alappuzha offers stunning backwater views, rustic village vibes and unforgettable sunsets. The city"s landscape is mostly flat, with no major mountains or hills, though there are a few small hillocks scattered between the Bharanikkavu and Chengannur blocks in the eastern part. The area is also free from forests. This city holds a special place in the state"s cultural calendar as a key site for the annual Nehru Trophy Boat Race, which takes place during Onam. On the western side, Alappuzha is bordered by the Laccadive Sea, and the town is crisscrossed by an intricate network of lakes, lagoons and freshwater rivers.Desktop Version

Dec 1, 2023Ross Sea, Antarctica

The windiest, coldest, driest and fifth-largest continent on Earth—Antarctica—was discovered in 1820. It is Earth"s southernmost continent and a pristine and forbidding wilderness, often referred to as the world"s last true frontier. From suspended clouds of ice crystals to a subglacial, iron oxide-rich lake that flows blood-red, this polar desert is full of natural wonders. Its massive ice sheet stores about 70% of the world"s fresh water. If it were to melt entirely, it could raise sea levels by over 200 feet, threatening low-lying regions worldwide. The infamous ozone layer hole is located above Antarctica, but thanks to global efforts, it is on track to close within the next 20 years.Desktop Version

Dec 21, 2023Ljubljana, Slovenia

What a lovely city! The Slavic word "ljub" means "to love", and it serves as the prefix to Slovenia"s capital city, Ljubljana, and the Ljubljunica River that runs through it. This relatively small capital, with a population just under 300,000, was established on a trade route connecting the northern Adriatic Sea and the Danube region. To the south of the city lies the Ljubljana Marsh, the largest marsh in the country, covering 163 square kilometres. While modern buildings have cropped up on the city"s periphery, the core of town preserves its historic structures, which have ancient Roman and mediaeval elements. Examples include the Ljubljana Castle, the Triple Bridge, the Dragon Bridge and the historic Old Town. Keep an eye out while you stroll around, you might encounter the city"s symbol, the Ljubljana Dragon.Desktop Version

Jan 11, 2024Eurasian lynx

Ready for a next-level staring contest? The Eurasian lynx, sporting grey or rusty fur with patterned dark spots, is hard to catch sight of, even though it is widely distributed from Europe to Central Asia and Siberia. Known for their elusive nature, these cats often go unnoticed for years in their native habitats. Their low vocalisations are heard by other lynx but can escape the notice of humans. Eurasian lynxes are primarily active at night, dawn and dusk, but can hunt during the day when they need to. These solitary hunters are renowned for their keen senses and remarkable agility. In temperate forests, where they play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance by keeping prey species numbers in check, their primary food includes rabbits, hares, marmots and other small mammals.Desktop Version

Sep 29, 2023Sangameswara Temple, Andhra Pradesh

Nestled in the Nandyal district of Andhra Pradesh, India you will find the Sangameswara Temple. A timeless gem that attracts both spiritual seekers and history enthusiasts. This sacred Hindu temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva holds a history spanning centuries. A part of the Hindui trinity known as the Trimurti along with Brahma and Vishnu, Shiva is often referred to as the "Auspicious One", and play a major role in creating, protecting and transforming the universe. Followers of Shiva might visit this temple to pay homage, and all other travellers can immerse themselves in the allure and aura of Sangameswara Temple where history, spirituality and natural beauty seamlessly intertwine.Desktop Version

Jan 5, 2024International Ice and Snow Festival, Harbin, China

Harbin, in Heilongjiang, the northernmost province of China, welcomes an icy twist in January by opening its doors to the Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival. This festival traces its origins to a humble garden party that featured ice lanterns in 1963 and has since evolved into an event where sculptors from around the world came together to create sculptures from the frozen waters of the Songhua River. This wonderland has towering castles, lanterns and intricate sculptures, all made of ice. In 2007, "Romantic Feelings," the world"s largest snow sculpture at 35 metres in height, was created here in the shape of an Olympic-themed artwork. During the evenings, multicoloured lights illuminate the translucent sculptures, adding another layer of charm. While exploring Harbin, you can try alpine skiing, and if you"re feeling brave, winter swimming in the Songhua River.Desktop Version

The ancient ruins of Nalanda

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Oct 11, 2024Wood duck, Quebec, Canada

Let"s take a moment to admire the vibrant plumage of the wood duck, photographed in Quebec, Canada. Wood ducks, like the one in today"s image, nest in tree cavities close to water and sometime take advantage of man-made boxes.Desktop Version

Sep 22, 2024Bada Bagh complex in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan

In the middle of the desert, there"s a garden that"s anything but ordinary—Bada Bagh, visible in the distance in today"s image. It is about six kilometres north of Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, and is home to an impressive collection of royal chhatri cenotaphs, built by the Maharajas of Jaisalmer State from the 18th to the early 20th centuries. Meticulously carved from yellow sandstone blocks, these cenotaphs showcase the elegance of Rajasthani architecture, combining elements of Hindu and Islamic styles. Embellished with exquisite paintings, sculptures and inscriptions, these were built in four distinct sizes, each reflecting the royal hierarchy.Desktop Version

Jun 2, 2024Hampi, Hospet, Karnataka

Shrouded in the mists of time, lies Karnataka"s ancient gem—Hampi. A UNESCO World Heritage Site situated in Hampi City, in the present day Vijayanagara district, it is also referred to as the Group of Monuments at Hampi. The city was the last capital of the renowned Vijayanagara empire, and its affluent rulers constructed magnificent temples and palaces here during the 14th and 16th centuries. The region is marked by the presence of the Tungabhadra River, expansive plains and rugged hill ranges including Matanga hill. The complexity and advancement of Hampi"s diverse urban, royal and religious structures are showcased in over 1600 well-preserved remnants. Some of them are Krishna temple, Narasimha, Ganesa, Hemakuta group of temples, Achyutaraya temple, Vitthala temple, Pattabhirama temple complex, Lotus Mahal and more. So don"t miss the chance to explore its fascinating archaeological treasures!Desktop Version

Mar 13, 2025Marine iguanas, Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

Marine iguanas, seen in today"s image, are fascinating creatures found exclusively on the Galápagos Islands in Ecuador. They weigh around 1.5 kilograms and can grow up to 1.5 metres in length. These reptiles are the only lizards in the world that forage in the sea, diving to graze on algae growing on submerged rocks. Researchers believe that both Galápagos land iguanas and marine iguanas evolved from a common ancestor that likely rafted from Central or South America. They"ve adapted in remarkable ways, from flattened tails for swimming to salt glands that allow them to expel seawater by sneezing.Desktop Version

Jan 21, 2025Eurasian red squirrel

What"s that long, bushy tail scurrying across the branches? Chances are, it"s a squirrel. From the tiny least pygmy squirrel—more than 13 centimetres long—to the Bhutan giant flying squirrel at more than one metres, these mammals come in all shapes and sizes. Today"s image features a Eurasian red squirrel, photographed in the Netherlands. The red squirrel can be found across Europe and Russia, from western Spain and Portugal all the way to eastern Siberia. Their diet mainly consists of nuts, fungi, seeds and berries, but they will occasionally eat birds" eggs. In addition to being the national mammal of Denmark, they also play a part in old Norse mythology. Ratatoskr is a red squirrel who scurries up and down Yggdrasil, the sacred tree, carrying messages and spreading gossip.Desktop Version

Mar 7, 2024Roques de Benet, Els Ports Natural Park, Catalonia, Spain

Jutting into the sky above Els Ports Natural Park, the Roques de Benet are a cluster of rock formations in the Ports de Tortosa Beseit region of Catalonia, Spain. The tallest peak out of this cluster stands at an elevation of nearly 1,020 metres above sea level. Overlooking the Ebro delta, the peak offers views of streams and pine forests, with trails that lead into the mountains. The word Benet comes from Arabic, hinting at the varied past that the area has had, including both Arabic and Christian settlers. These days, the park is home to a variety of fauna, from ibex and otters, to vultures and eagles. Animals aren"t the only inhabitants of the area. The villages nestled at the base of this massif have a sense of community and still maintain their shared traditions, such as the age-old craft of using vegetable fibres to create baskets and kitchen utensils.Desktop Version

Dec 13, 2023Svolvaer, Lofoten Islands, Norway

Housed in the Arctic Circle, Norway"s Lofoten Islands are a crossroads of traditional life and modern industry. One of two towns in Lofoten, Svolvaer boasts a long history as a fishing village. Before it became a town of its own, it was part of the town of Vågan, where people lived for over 1,000 years. Beyond fishing, it also serves as a sanctuary for travellers looking for a peaceful getaway, with as many as 200,000 visitors in a single year. The traditional houses—called rorbu—are built on poles over water, and add a distinctive layer of charm to the town. These cabins were once made for travelling fishermen and have now been refurbished to meet contemporary tastes.Desktop Version

Aug 9, 2024Hang Sơn Đoòng, Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park, Vietnam

In 1991, a Vietnamese logger stumbled upon something big in Vietnam"s Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park. During a jungle expedition, he found the entrance to a cave with a roaring underground river, which was later named Hang Sơn Đoòng, or "cave of the mountain river." In 2009, the British Cave Research Association led an expedition to explore the site. It was then that they realised something incredible: it was the world"s largest cave.Desktop Version

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