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Nov 28, 2024Murudeshwara Temple, Murdeshwar, Karnataka

Welcome to the coastal town of Murdeshwar in Karnataka"s North Canara district, right along the Laccadive Sea. The town"s star attraction is the magnificent Murudeshwara temple, perched atop Kanduka Hill, seen in today"s image. Built in 2008, this temple is constructed in the classic Dravidian architectural style and features Chalukya and Kadamba sculptures. It houses a lift that gives visitors a breathtaking view of the towering 37-metre Shiva statue, which is the third tallest in the world. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and the primary deity here, Sri Mridesa Linga, also known as Murudeshwara, is believed to be a fragment of the original Atma Linga. It rests about 60 centimetres below the ground. Flanked by two life-sized concrete elephants, the temple complex, including the impressive 20-storey, over 60-metre-tall Raja Gopura, is among the tallest in the region—truly a sight to behold!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

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

Jul 13, 2024Fairy chimneys and cave dwellings in Cappadocia, Türkiye

Today, we"re all about granite, limestone and slate. There are three types of rock: igneous are formed from solidified magma and lava; sedimentary rocks are layers of sedimentary particles such as sand; and metamorphic rocks are the result of heat and pressure on other kinds of rock. Today"s image takes us to Cappadocia in central Türkiye, and its stony structures known as fairy chimneys. These cone-shaped pillars are made of tuff, a sedimentary rock that forms as volcanic ash and debris accumulate. In the sides of the rocks, ancient residents of the area carved homes and churches. The area is also famous for its underground cities, which were cut out of the tuff to provide shelter and safety. This is just one of the many uses for rocks that humans have come up with throughout history.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

Jul 31, 2024Hoodoos, Sunset Point, Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah, USA

Let"s take a trip to a forest of stones: Bryce Canyon National Park in Utah, USA. In the park, named after the Mormon pioneer Ebenezer Bryce, lies Sunset Point, seen in today"s image, a spot to see the hoodoos. These rock formations are created by frost weathering and stream erosion, which shape the stone into an otherworldly landscape. Perched at 2,438 to 2,743 metres, this overlook offers a panoramic view of rocky spires in red, orange and white. The most iconic of them is Thor"s Hammer, a hoodoo that overlooks a part of the park known as the "Silent City." The Queen"s Garden Trail, which leads from Sunset Point to Sunrise Point, offers even more vistas and rock formations, including the Queen Victoria hoodoo. According to the legend told by the Paiute indigenous people who inhabited this area, hoodoos are people who have been turned to stone for their misdeeds by the trickster Coyote. Whether you"re a hiker, a photographer or simply a traveller, the hoodoos are waiting.Desktop Version

Feb 26, 2025Maha Shivaratri

Today is Maha Shivaratri, a festival marked by fasting, meditation and an all-night vigil in honour of Lord Shiva. Celebrated between February and March, it falls on the fourteenth night of the waning moon in the Hindu month of Phalguna. But what makes this festival truly special? It marks the union of Shiva and Parvati and the powerful Tandava dance performed by Shiva. What would be a better place to experience the divine presence of Shiva than Tungnath, featured here? One of the highest Shiva temples in the world, Tungnath is perched high in the Himalayas at 3,680 metres. This sacred site, in Uttarakhand"s Rudraprayag district, is the loftiest of the five Panch Kedar temples, and sits just below the majestic Chandrashila peak.Desktop Version

Dec 22, 2023Red Fort, Delhi

The towering Red Fort, housed amidst the bustling streets of Old Delhi, echoes the grandeur of India"s rich history. Commissioned by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the mid-17th century, it is named for its red sandstone walls, boasting a harmonious blend of Persian, Timurid and Indian architectural styles. From the majestic Lahori Gate to the intricate designs of the Diwan-i-Khas, each alcove tells a story.Desktop Version

An architectural wonder in Rajasthan

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Apr 14, 2025Ambedkar Jayanti

Ambedkar Jayanti is a reminder of the life and legacy of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, India"s visionary leader, social reformer and champion of equality. Born on this day in 1891, he embodied the values he stood for, with some even calling his birthday "Equality Day." Grand processions at Chaitya Bhoomi in Mumbai and Deeksha Bhoomi in Nagpur draw large crowds, while tributes and cultural events take place nationwide. National leaders honour Ambedkar at the Parliament. Beyond India, the celebration resonates globally, especially among Dalits, Adivasis, labourers, women and those inspired by his Buddhist ideals.Desktop Version

Feb 22, 2024Bathing boxes at Brighton Beach, Australia

The Brighton Bathing Boxes on Melbourne"s Brighton Beach, painted with a rainbow of colours, are enduring relics. With recent additions bringing their total to 96, these huts have become one of Melbourne"s premier tourist attractions. The history of the bathing boxes is as colourful as their appearance. They first popped up on Brighton"s coastline in 1860, providing a modest cover for bathers swapping for their bathing suits. Worn out and damaged during the post-World War I depression, the beach huts received collective maintenance in 1934. Despite the upkeep, the multicoloured structures were faced with the threat of removal in 1952. But thanks to the Brighton Bathing Box Association for successfully securing their survival, we can still enjoy the vibrant coastguards today!Desktop Version

Twinkle twinkle, little bugs

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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

Himalaya mountain range

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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

Apr 3, 2024Munnar, Kerala

Embark on a sensory journey through Munnar"s famed tea plantations! Situated amid the misty heights of the Western Ghats Mountain range, Munnar is a hill station and town in the Idukki district of Kerala. At approximately 1,600 metres above sea level, the town boasts a landscape characterised by rolling hills, lush valleys and verdant tea plantations. In the 1880s, European settlers established the first tea plantations in the region, marking the beginning of a flourishing industry that would shape the landscape and economy for decades to come.Desktop Version

Nov 20, 2024Olive grove, Valle dItria, Puglia, Italy

Today, we"re not just offering you an olive branch—we"ve got the whole tree. Olive trees were first cultivated in the eastern Mediterranean around 8,000 years ago. From there, they were spread to the Greek islands and mainland by the Phoenicians, then further afield, reaching Spain and the western edge of the Mediterranean by around 1000 BCE. The olive branch has been a symbol of peace since ancient times, and olive trees have been grown for their oil, wood and fruit for millennia. The southern region of Puglia in Italy, seen here, has an estimated 60 million olive trees and produces about 40% of the country"s olive oil. The region has been producing olives for centuries. The oldest olive tree in Puglia, and one of the oldest in Italy, is thought to be almost 4,000 years old.Desktop Version

Jun 3, 2024Jaswant Thada and Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur, Rajasthan

Looking for a taste of royal Rajasthan? Come to Jodhpur and witness the majestic duo of Jaswant Thada and Mehrangarh Fort! Perched atop a rocky hill towering over 122 metres above the plains, Mehrangarh Fort is among Rajasthan"s largest forts. Constructed over a period of 500 years, starting in the mid-15th century, the fort showcases a diverse range of architectural styles spanning different epochs, even including elements from the 20th century. The fort boasts exquisite palaces and houses a museum with rare relics from Indian courtly life.Desktop Version

Happy New Year’s from down under

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Dec 7, 2024Orchha Fort complex, Orchha, Madhya Pradesh

Welcome to the Orchha Fort complex in the town of Orchha in Madhya Pradesh. The construction of this complex was started by the Bundela Rajputs, including King Rudra Pratap Singh, the founder of the Orchha State, and later expanded by his successors. It features lush gardens and pavilions and structures like Raja Mahal, Sheesh Mahal and Jahangir Mahal—seen in today"s image. The Jahangir Mahal was crafted in 1605 by Bir Singh Deo, specifically to impress the Mughal Emperor Jahangir, who stayed as the Maharaja"s guest for just one night.Desktop Version

The pillar of democracy

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Feb 23, 2024Haghartsin Monastery, Armenia

Hidden among the forests of northern Armenia, Haghartsin Monastery is a gem of mediaeval Armenian architecture. Surrounded by the lush landscapes of Dilijan National Park, the monastery complex consists of several ornate structures, including the Church of the Holy Mother of God, St. Gregory"s Church and St. Stepanos" Church. The buildings date back to the 10th century and are adorned with intricately carved stone monuments, crossing arches and other decorative details, showcasing the skilled craftsmanship of the era. Haghartsin, which translates to "dance of the eagles," offers a serene escape for those seeking to connect with the country"s rich history. A sense of timelessness pervades as you wander through its quiet courtyards and explore the forested surroundings.Desktop Version

Feb 21, 2025Champaka Sarasi, Shivamogga, Karnataka, India

From waterfalls to temples, Shivamogga, in Karnataka, offers experiences waiting to be discovered. Steeped in timeless lore, the city is mentioned in the Ramayana and the Mahabharata. The region"s name itself holds a spiritual significance, derived from the Sanskrit words "Shiva-Mukha," meaning the "face of Shiva." It is home to several temples, including the Sharavati Temple, dedicated to Shiva, and a temple in the Kodachadri hills that offers vistas of the Western Ghats Mountain range.Desktop Version

Feb 25, 2025Castle Stalker, Argyll, Scotland

Perched dramatically on a tidal islet in Loch Laich, Argyll, Castle Stalker is one of Scotland"s most picturesque and well-preserved medieval tower houses. Built around the 1440s by the Stewarts of Appin, its history includes royal visits and even a drunken wager that briefly transferred ownership to Clan Campbell. Despite falling into disrepair by the 19th century, it was lovingly restored in the mid-20th century and is still privately owned today. Visitors can explore this historic site on selected guided tours during the summer.Desktop Version

Mar 27, 2024Amber Fort, Jaipur

Hold on to your turbans, folks! We"re stepping into the realm of Amber! Atop a hill, overlooking the Maota Lake, lies the Amber Fort in the town of Amer, just 11 kilometres from Jaipur, Rajasthan. Amber, initially a Meena state governed by the Susawat clan, became the capital of Dhundhar after Kakil Deo defeated the Susawats. Later, Dulha Rai, a Kachhwaha prince, established Kachwaha dominance over Dhundhar. Kacchwaha lineage"s Raja Shri Maan Singh who was also one of Emperor Akbar"s trusted generals, initiated the construction of this majestic fort in 1592.Desktop Version

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