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Vinh Hy Bay, Vietnam
Vinh 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
Füzér Castle in the Zemplén Mountains, Hungary
Füzér Castle in the Zemplén Mountains, Hungary
Hungary, a country rich with history and stunning landscapes, hosts a treasure trove of castles. From the Buda Castle in Budapest, with its opulent architecture and commanding views of the Danube, to the Eger Castle, renowned for its heroic defence against the Turks, each castle tells a unique story of battles, royalty and cultural evolution.Desktop Version
Dolphins near Santa Maria Island, Azores, Portugal
Dolphins near Santa Maria Island, Azores, Portugal
Today we are highlighting dolphins, some of the smartest and most fascinating marine mammals. From leaping through waves to chatting in clicks and whistles, dolphins are all about social life. Take the Atlantic spotted dolphin—featured here—known for the spots on its body, which multiply and become denser with age. They are highly social creatures, often forming dynamic groups of 5–15 individuals, sometimes mingling with common bottlenose dolphins. Known for their speed and agility, they frequently engage in bow-riding and perform long, shallow leaps across the water. These dolphins are also skilled nocturnal hunters, working together to corral their prey—primarily small fish, benthic invertebrates and squid. When confronting other species, they tend to use physical tactics like biting and chasing, whereas within their own groups, they rely more on visual displays to assert dominance.Desktop Version
Humpback whale
Humpback whale
Who"s that in the spotlight? A humpback whale! Known for their haunting songs and acrobatic breaches, these gentle giants were once on the edge of extinction due to whaling and entanglement in fishing gear. Inhabiting oceans and seas across the globe, humpback whales prefer polar waters for feeding; they journey to tropical or subtropical regions for breeding and giving birth. Their diet predominantly consists of krill and small fish, and they employ a unique bubble-net technique to efficiently prey. Thanks to conservation efforts, their population is making a comeback, from around 5,000 in 1966 to an estimate of 135,000 today.Desktop Version
Polar bear cubs
Polar bear cubs
These apex predators live and hunt on Arctic sea ice. Their prey largely consists of seals, but they have been known to eat beluga whales, reindeer and other arctic animals. The polar bears in today"s image are in Kaktovik, a small Inupiat whaling community in Alaska, United States. The bears visit the village during autumn, attracted by unused remnants left on the streets by whale hunters. Polar bears exhibit remarkable mobility, traversing areas ranging from as small as 3,500 square kilometres to as expansive as 38,000 square kilometres in a year. Unlike some other bears, most polar bears remain active throughout the year. Hibernation is exclusive to pregnant females. Non-hibernating individuals maintain a regular 24-hour cycle, persisting even in conditions of continuous darkness or sunlight, although cycles shorter than a day are more prevalent during prolonged darkness.Desktop Version
Fatehpur Sikri, Agra, Uttar Pradesh
Fatehpur Sikri, Agra, Uttar Pradesh
Featured in today"s image is Fatehpur Sikri, the red sandstone city in the Agra district of Uttar Pradesh. Established by Emperor Akbar in 1571 to honour the revered Sufi saint Sheikh Salim Chishti, it served as the capital of the Mughal Empire from 1571 to 1585. It was named Fatehpur Sikri, meaning "City of Victory," in 1573, following his victorious campaign in Gujarat. Beyond being a military stronghold, it flourished as a hub for scholars, poets and artists, reflecting emperor"s vision of cultural and intellectual excellence. The city was entirely abandoned in 1610, marking the end of its role in Mughal history.Desktop Version
Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
Today"s image gives us a glimpse of beautiful Grand Teton National Park, in our least populous state, Wyoming. The park, established in 1929, includes numerous lakes, the Snake River and the Teton Range, famed for its series of sharp, jagged peaks. Bring your binoculars with you, and if it"s summertime, be on the lookout for Pronghorn, who travel about 241 kilometres to get there. They aren"t the only creatures to visit seasonally; elk and bison are also summer visitors. These migrations play a vital role in the ecosystem of Grand Teton National Park. The animals help disperse seeds and provide food for predators.Desktop Version
Pushkarni, Sri Krishna Temple, Hampi, Karnataka
Pushkarni, Sri Krishna Temple, Hampi, Karnataka
The ancient city of Hampi"s architectural brilliance is displayed in the Pushkarani water tanks. These beautifully designed tanks, with their perfectly laid stone steps, were crafted to make access to the water easy. These tanks have deep cultural significance and are highly revered. Historically, Pushkaranis were built for ritualistic temple practices or as royal amenities during the Vijayanagara Empire. In Hampi, almost every grand temple has one tank, serving both spiritual and functional purposes. The Pushkarani in front of the Sri Krishna Temple, seen in today"s image, is one of the most elegant and accessible tanks here.Desktop Version
Female pyrrhuloxia in Texas, USA
Female pyrrhuloxia in Texas, USA
In today"s image is a pyrrhuloxia—also known as the desert cardinal—a songbird that lives in the deserts of northern Mexico and the American Southwest. The female cardinal, while lacking the flamboyant colouration of her male counterpart, possesses a unique charm in her own right. While she shares the distinctive crest and red bill with the male, her plumage is a more subdued yellowish, cinnamon-brown, adorned only with subtle touches of red. Unlike females in many bird species, the female cardinal is an accomplished vocalist, harmonising with the melodies of the male.Desktop Version
Independence Day
Independence Day
It"s Independence Day, the day our nation threw off the yoke of British rule. This day commemorates the transfer of legislative sovereignty from the British crown to the Indian Constituent Assembly. Our first prime minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, hoisted the national flag at the Lahori Gate of the Red Fort in Delhi on August 15, 1947. Since then, it has become a tradition for the sitting prime minister to raise the flag and deliver a national address on Independence Day. Over time, the focus of the celebration has shifted from solely nationalism to a broader appreciation of Indian culture and heritage. The Indian diaspora also celebrates this day worldwide, with parades and events, especially in areas with significant Indian populations. In New York and other US cities, it has come to be recognised as "India Day." Independence Day is not just a reminder of our country"s journey towards independence but also the ongoing commitment to build a brighter future for all.Desktop Version
Kargil Vijay Diwas
Kargil Vijay Diwas
Every July 26, India comes together in pride and remembrance, honouring the heroes of the Kargil War. The day commemorates our country"s major military success against Pakistan during the war. After the 1971 Indo-Pakistani War, direct armed conflicts were rare until the 1990s when tensions rose due to separatist activities in Kashmir and nuclear tests by both nations in 1998. Despite the Lahore Declaration in 1999, Pakistan initiated the covert Operation Badri, leading to the Kargil War that lasted for almost 3 months.Desktop Version
Flock of Swaledale sheep in North Yorkshire, England
Flock of Swaledale sheep in North Yorkshire, England
Today"s image features a group of Swaledale sheep in the North Yorkshire dales of England. Known for their off-white wool, curled horns and distinctive white markings around their nose and eyes, they are used for lamb and mutton production, breeding the North of England Mule sheep and as pedigree breeding stock. Adapted to the harsh environments they inhabit, Swaledales are exceptionally hardy, with thick coats, strong bodies and a bold disposition. The ewes are excellent mothers, capable of raising lambs successfully even under challenging conditions. With their unique appearance and remarkable adaptability, Swaledale sheep continue to thrive in the dales, contributing significantly to local economies and preserving traditional farming practices.Desktop Version
Dudhsagar Falls, Goa
Dudhsagar Falls, Goa
Today, let"s explore the magic of Dudhsagar Falls in Goa. Towering at an impressive 310 metres with a 30-metre width, it is among India"s tallest waterfalls. Translating to "Sea of Milk," it is a spectacular four-tiered waterfall on the Mandovi River. Legend has it, a beautiful princess would take a bath here and then drink sweetened milk from a golden jug. One day she saw a handsome prince watching her. To protect her modesty, she poured the milk, forming a white curtain as a shield. According to the tale, the milk continues to flow down the mountains as a tribute to her grace and virtue. This gem in the Western Ghats marks the journey of the Mandovi River as it falls toward Panaji and finally meets the Arabian Sea. During the dry season, the falls might seem unassuming, but with the arrival of the monsoon, they transform into a magnificent cascade of thundering water.Desktop Version
Cave Dale and Peveril Castle, England
Cave Dale and Peveril Castle, England
Peveril Castle was once a medieval fortress, standing tall on a limestone outcrop. Its ruins now overlook the village of Castleton in the Peak District in Derbyshire, England. Construction of the castle began shortly after the Norman conquest in the 11th century, although it wasn"t completed until the 14th century. From the castle, visitors can enjoy views of Cave Dale, a ravine that was carved by glacial meltwater over many years. In the limestone walls of the dale, there are caves and disused lead mines. From hidden caves to towering battlements, this corner of the Peak District is bursting with history and is just waiting to be explored.Desktop Version
Modica, Sicily, Italy
Modica, Sicily, Italy
When Italy comes to mind, iconic cities like Milan, Rome and Venice often steal the spotlight. However, on the island of Sicily lies a less famous gem—Modica. It"s a city that has risen from the rubble of an earthquake in 1693 to become an architectural wonderland of Baroque-style buildings. With fewer than 60,000 inhabitants, this UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts cobbled lanes, echoing with powerful footprints—from prehistoric tribes to the ancient Greeks and Romans to the mediaeval Arabs and Normans. Landmarks like the San Giorgio Cathedral and San Pietro Church awe visitors with their grandeur, and Modica"s recognised chocolate, crafted with Aztec-inspired techniques, tempts the palates of food enthusiasts. So, the next time Italy beckons, how about taking the road less travelled to Modica?Desktop Version
Container ship near a port in Thailand
Container ship near a port in Thailand
The sea is a wild and chaotic place to work, especially with approximately 80% of all countries having access to the ocean or an ocean-accessible sea. While the ocean plays a vital global role in trade, the survival of many species on Earth, including our own, depends on it remaining a healthy place.Desktop Version
Megalong Valley, Blue Mountains National Park, NSW, Australia
Megalong Valley, Blue Mountains National Park, NSW, Australia
Today, we are in New South Wales, Australia, amid the Blue Mountains National Park. Known for its dramatic cliffs, dense rainforests and cascading waterfalls, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a treasure trove of natural beauty and biodiversity. Among the most iconic features of the Blue Mountains region are the eucalyptus trees, pictured here. Home to 92 species of eucalyptus, this area offers visitors a chance to marvel at these resilient trees, which are central to Australian wildlife. Their aromatic leaves provide food for koalas, while their bark and canopy create habitats for countless birds and insects. Also nestled within the mountains is the Megalong Valley. Just a two-hour drive from Sydney, this region is home to getaway cabins, wineries and the Megalong Valley Tearooms, a charming retreat where you can enjoy freshly baked scones paired with local jams.Desktop Version
Gespensterwald, Nienhagen, Germany
Gespensterwald, Nienhagen, Germany
In the coastal region of Mecklenburg-West Pomerania in Germany lies the Gespensterwald, which means "Ghost Forest," seen in today"s image. This spine-tingling forest covers about 1.8 square kilometres, with its gnarled beech, hornbeam, ash and oak trees twisting toward the sky. The salty sea air from the Baltic Sea and the moist climate contribute to the trees" distorted shapes, giving rise to the forest"s haunted moniker. Visitors experience light-hearted brushes with the supernatural, such as the crunch of dead leaves, a friendly spirit waving hello from afar or a mischievous ghost peeking from behind a tree. The strategic lighting, which casts ghostly shadows, along with the sculptures and decorations placed along the path, are elements that enhance the forest"s ghostly aura throughout the year.Desktop Version
World Philosophy Day
World Philosophy Day
On World Philosophy Day, let"s talk about Athens, the capital of Greece. The city symbolises the roots of Western civilization and ancient Greek philosophy, which focused on critical thinking and questioning. The city"s iconic Acropolis and Parthenon remind us of the brilliant minds of Socrates, Plato and Aristotle, who started a revolution of rationale that is still shaping our society today. UNESCO recognises the profound impact philosophy has on human thought, cultures and individuals via World Philosophy Day. Take time today to discover the depths of the "love of wisdom"!Desktop Version
Mysuru Palace, Mysuru, Karnataka
Mysuru Palace, Mysuru, Karnataka
Walk through a real-life royal dream—Mysuru Palace. In the heart of Mysuru, Karnataka, this palace is where royalty once lived, ruled and hosted grandeur on a whole new level. It was the official home of the Wadiyar dynasty and the nerve centre of the Kingdom of Mysore. This structure is the brainchild of British architect Henry Irwin. It"s a vibrant mix of Indo-Saracenic architecture, laced with Islamic arches, Rajput finesse and a touch of Gothic drama.Desktop Version
Pegadung Rock, Lampung, Sumatra, Indonesia
Pegadung Rock, Lampung, Sumatra, Indonesia
If you"re seeking an unspoiled landscape where nature displays raw beauty and power, Pegadung Rock on the southern coast of Indonesia"s island of Sumatra could be the place for you. While the beach boasts turquoise waters, sandy shores and crashing waves, it"s the shark-teeth-like rocks, standing as tall as 10 metres against the currents of the Indian Ocean, that truly steal the show. These rock formations have earned the area nicknames such as "rock screen" and "shark"s teeth." While this beach has no tourist accommodation, the nearby Kiluan Bay village presents a haven for visitors. For those ready to trade lounging for exploring, this Sumatran treasure awaits.Desktop Version
Makar Sankranti
Makar Sankranti
Get ready to string up those kites and dive into the sweetness of Makar Sankranti. A significant Hindu festival observed every year, its roots trace back to the Vedic texts, including the sacred Gayatri Mantra from the Rigveda. This occasion is celebrated across India with various multi-day festivities. It includes a burst of social festivities, from colourful decorations and joyful kite flying to lively fairs, bonfires and sumptuous feasts. In some regions, children go door-to-door singing songs and collecting treats, adding to the festive spirit.Desktop Version
The mystery of Stonehenge
The mystery of Stonehenge
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Happy New Year!
Happy New Year!
Welcome to 2024! Did you stay up late last night to ring in the new year? If so, we wouldn"t blame you for sleeping in like this red fox in Abruzzo, Italy. Whenever you wake up, New Year"s Day is a great opportunity for reflection, planning, and a sense of renewal for the year that stretches out before us. January 1 has been a big day since the Julian calendar was widely adopted in 45 BCE, and as its use spread across the world—eventually modified in 1582 by the Gregorian calendar to better calculate for leap years. Whether you"re taking the day to watch a parade, attend a sports game, take a chilly dip or write resolutions, we hope it"s the beginning of a great year to come.Desktop Version
Grand Canal with Santa Maria della Salute Basilica, Venice, Italy
Grand Canal with Santa Maria della Salute Basilica, Venice, Italy
When in Venice, you might pass by the Santa Maria della Salute, seen towards the back of today"s image, a baroque basilica dedicated to the Virgin Mary, who was considered to be the protector of the Republic of Venice. Situated between the Grand Canal and the Giudecca Canal, this architectural gem graces the Bacino di San Marco, offering a striking welcome to those entering Piazza San Marco by water. Designed in the fashionable Baroque style by Baldassare Longhena, a student of Vincenzo Scamozzi, construction of the basilica commenced in 1631. The Salute"s dome swiftly became an emblem of Venice"s skyline, immortalised by local and visiting artists. Today, the Salute stands not only as a representation of faith but also as a reminder of Venice"s history and artistic legacy.Desktop Version