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Lockhart Tea Museum: A Journey Through Munnar's Tea Legacy

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Munnar, often synonymous with sprawling tea plantations, is home to the Lockhart Tea Museum , a destination that offers a deep dive into the history and production of tea in South India. Situated just 9 km from Munnar on the Thekkady Road , the museum is housed within a historic building constructed in 1936 and was officially opened to the public on 22 January 2014 . The Legacy of Lockhart Estate The Lockhart Estate , where the museum is located, is among the earliest tea plantations in the High Range (Munnar) . It was established in 1879 by Baron John Von Rosenberg and his son, Baron George Otto Von Rosenberg . The estate initially experimented with cinchona and coffee , before ultimately transitioning to tea cultivation , which flourished in the region. Inside the Lockhart Tea Museum The museum provides visitors with an opportunity to explore the rich history of tea production , featuring photographs, antique machinery, and exhibits that illustrate the evolution of tea processing...
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Kanheri Caves - Part 11

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This is the 11th installment in my series on the Kanheri Caves. In earlier articles, I explored Cave No. 1 and Cave No. 2 in detail. In the last two episodes, I introduced Cave No. 3, discussing its entrance, sculptures, and the two massive pillars at the inner entrance. As mentioned before, this cave features a well-crafted forecourt with a flight of steps leading to a rectangular verandah and an apsidal Chaitya at the rear. In this episode, I focus on two large Buddha sculptures in the verandah. I will cover the remaining sculptures of the verandah, Chaitya and inscriptions in the forth-coming episodes.  Cave No. 3 faces west. Within its rectangular verandah, two towering Buddha sculptures—each 7 meters high—stand on the north and south-facing walls. The South-Facing Buddha Positioned to the viewer's left upon entering the verandah, this Buddha is depicted in a standing posture (Samapāda-sthānaka), with both feet firmly placed parallel to each other. The body exhibits a subtle co...
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Location: 6W53+4WV, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400101, India
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Coney Island: A Serene Escape in Singapore

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Coney Island, also known as Pulau Serangoon, is a 133-hectare island located off the northeastern coast of Singapore, within the town of Punggol. Once earmarked for residential development, the island underwent land reclamation from 1975 to the 1990s. These efforts significantly reduced the channel between Punggol and the island to just 100 meters. However, instead of urbanization, the island has been transformed into a nature sanctuary, offering visitors a tranquil escape from city life. Coney Island Park: A Nature Haven On 10 October 2015, Coney Island Park was officially opened to the public, unveiling a 2-kilometer-long beach and a 2.4-kilometer path that integrates into Singapore’s park connector network. Managed by the National Parks Board, this 81-hectare nature park is home to a diverse range of habitats, including coastal forests, grasslands, and mangroves. The island’s rustic charm makes it an ideal destination for nature lovers, hikers, and wildlife enthusiasts. Exploring Co...
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Location: Coney Island, Brooklyn, NY, USA
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Tirunelveli’s Forgotten Architectural Heritage

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Every city, town, and village carries a distinct character—its own charm, traditions, and architectural heritage. Tirunelveli, one of Tamil Nadu’s oldest regions, is no exception. While the region is often celebrated for its temples and halwa, its unique residential architecture remains a lesser-known aspect of its cultural identity. The house in this image is a fine example of Tirunelveli’s rich architectural past, reflecting a blend of colonial and traditional Tamil influences. Dating back to the late 19th or early 20th century, such houses were once a common sight, built by affluent merchants and traders. Today, however, they are becoming increasingly rare, replaced by modern structures that lack the artistry and character of the past. A Style Unique to Tirunelveli While some might mistake these homes for Chettinad-style mansions, Tirunelveli’s architectural heritage stands apart. The houses built in this region carry distinct features that showcase a seamless fusion of Tamil and co...
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Location: Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu, India
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The West Gate of Humayun’s Tomb – A Grand Entrance to Mughal Heritage

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Past the Arab Serai Gate, you arrive at the grand West Gate, the present-day entrance to Humayun’s Tomb. This imposing structure, though now the main access point, was not originally the primary entrance during the Mughal era. However, its design and scale make it a fitting prelude to the architectural brilliance that lies beyond. Positioned at the western end of the east-west axis, the West Gate is directly aligned with Humayun’s Tomb. Built from local grey quartzite with red sandstone dressing, this 16-meter-high gateway stands as a monumental darwaza, embodying both strength and elegance. The western façade extends outward, naturally guiding visitors into the garden complex, while the eastern side, designed as a lookout point, offers sweeping views of the symmetrical Mughal charbagh (garden) from three angles. The gateway’s structure reflects the signature elements of Mughal architecture. The central passage is flanked by rooms on either side, with small courtyards on the upper floo...
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Location: Hazrat Nizamuddin Aulia Dargah, Mathura Rd, Nizamuddin, Nizamuddin East, New Delhi, Delhi 110013, India
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Vadakkuppattu Lake (Water bodies of Chennai - 75)

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Vadakkupattu Lake, also known as Medavakkam Periya Eri, spans approximately 200 acres, with a bund stretching around 1.7 km. Once much larger, the lake has shrunk over time due to encroachments. Since Medavakkam has another smaller lake, this one is referred to as Periya Eri , meaning "Big Lake." Despite urban pressures, recent initiatives have focused on cleaning the lake and improving its surroundings. Encouragingly, efforts are underway to restore the lake, with plans to enhance the bund area by developing parks and green spaces. These measures aim to preserve the waterbody while providing a better environment for local residents. With continued conservation efforts, there is hope that Vadakkupattu Lake will regain its former prominence as a vital ecological and recreational space. Happy travelling. Note:  As per a report, there were about 650+ waterbodies in the Chennai region till the 1980s. Today, only a fraction of them exist. Most of those surviving waterbodies hardly...
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Location: Medavakkam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
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Puducherry Beach – A Stroll Through History and Heritage

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Puducherry Beach, popularly known as Promenade Beach or Rock Beach, is one of the most iconic locations in the Union Territory of Puducherry. Stretching for about 1.5 km along the Bay of Bengal, this scenic coastline is more than just a picturesque spot for relaxation—it is a place steeped in history and cultural significance. The beach is a favorite among locals and tourists alike, offering a tranquil escape with the rhythmic sound of waves and a well-maintained promenade perfect for leisurely walks. One of the most mesmerizing experiences at Puducherry Beach is watching the sunrise. As the first rays of the sun touch the horizon, the sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant colors, making it a favorite spot for early risers and photography enthusiasts. Many people come here for morning walks, jogging, or simply to breathe in the fresh sea air. The beach is known for its cleanliness, adding to the overall pleasant experience. Since vehicle movement is restricted along the promenade, it...
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Location: Puducherry, India
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