From historical temple towns to the scenic mountainscape of the Himalayas, there is so much of India to explore.
This is an excerpt from Lifestyle Asia’s August 2023 Issue.
A representative of the world’s largest democracy, an advocate for a stronger India-Philippines partnership, and a friend of the Philippines. That’s how Shambhu Kumaran, Ambassador of India to the Philippines, would like people to know him as.
“India and the Philippines are similar in so many ways,” Kumaran tells Lifestyle Asia in an exclusive interview. “We are diverse societies, dynamic economies, and vibrant democracies. We seek peace and friendship with all nations. Our culture values family and relationships. Our societies are very young and we are both very global in our outlook as evident from our diaspora across the world.”
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With that said, he’s certain that Filipinos will have much to love about the South Asian country. So, we’ve taken the opportunity to discover these wonderful places all across India.
WHICH DESTINATIONS WOULD YOU RECOMMEND TO FIRST-TIME TRAVELERS TO INDIA?
The “golden triangle” comprising the cities of Delhi-Agra-Jaipur gives an excellent first glimpse of India, which is a diverse and vast country.
WHAT ABOUT FOR RETURNING TRAVELERS?
The historical destinations of Hampi in Karnataka or Ajanta Caves in Maharashtra. Or the temple towns of Tamil Nadu and the verdant backwaters of Kerala. You could also travel up the high Himalayas in the North for scenic mountain hikes. Or go biking in Ladakh with its unique scenery and Buddhist heritage.
WHICH UNDER THE RADAR DESTINATIONS SHOULD TRAVELERS VISIT?
The North East of India has several hidden gems—from pristine lakes to scenic mountainscapes and the beauty of wildlife such as the Indian Rhino in Kaziranga (Assam).
WHAT ARE THE TOP THREE DESTINATIONS FOR FOOD-LOVERS?
Amritsar for its remarkably rich Indian breads like Kulchas or Parathas. Kolkata for its fish dishes and variety of sweets. Chennai for its famous masala dosas and crisp vadas with Sambar.
WHAT ARE THE TOP THREE DESTINATIONS FOR COUPLES?
For elderly couples, an Ayurveda (traditional Indian medicine system) health retreat in Kerala or in Uttarakhand is strongly recommended. For young or old, a royal experience in one of the Palace Hotels in Rajasthan. And of course, the Taj Mahal, the monument to love is not to be missed.
Read more by purchasing a copy of the Lifestyle Asia August 2023 magazine via SariSari.shopping or select newsstands in National Bookstore and Fully Booked. Subscribe to the E-Magazine via Readly, Magzter, and Press Reader.
Photos courtesy of the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India.
