Travel 3sixty May 2018

June 2018

ISSUE 15

India

AirAsia India turns four. Join in the fun, but don’t take me home! Read me online.

AirAsia Inflight Magazine

Incredible Years

RECORD PLACEMENT IN DELHI - NCR

BATCH 2018-Students placed

+

1200 Placement is still on...

TOP RECRUITERS CAPGEMINI TCS NTT DATA KPIT TECHNOLOGIES LTD. IBM INDIA MINDTREE LTD. BOSCH

Also Received Grant of Rs. 10 Lacs from DST

INFOGAIN

A GLBian showcasing her project to the Honourable PM of India @ iCreate, Ahmedabad. The project was among the only five projects selected from all over India for the demonstration.

UNITED HEALTH GROUP

One of its kind Industrial & Global Exposure for Mechanical Engineering Students

EMPLOYMENT ENHANCEMENT PROGRAMS

MOU With Germany

TECHNOLOGIES For Research in Mechanical Design

Barclays, Aricent, Minda Silica, Rane, Tata Technologies and NASSCOM

Advance Robotics Control Lab

ONLY COLLEGE IN UP TO WIN FIRST PRIZE IN SMART INDIA HACKATHON 2018 GL Bajaj is the only institute in UP, including government colleges, to win the first prize & cash amount of RS. 1 lakh under the Ministry of Women and Child Development

1Prize st

bestowed by Dr. Shashikala Pushpa (Member of Rajya Sabha)

Sh. Chetan B. Sanghi (Joint Secretary, Ministry of Women and Child Dev.)

Hackathon 2018 organized by MHRD & AICTE 10368 Participants | 1296 Teams | 36 Hours of nonstop coding 28 centres across the country

Approved by AICTE, CoA & Affiliated to AKTU

Once again among the

TOP

ENGINEERING COLLEGES OF INDIA as per

NATIONAL INSTITUTIONAL RANKING FRAMEWORK, 2018 Ministry of Human Resource Development, Government of India

4000 Colleges including IITs, NITs, RECs | 5 Parameters | 19 Sub-Parameters 6 Months of Rigorous Analysis | Top 200 Colleges Second time in a row, G.L. Bajaj has been ranked among The Top two hundred Institutes of India by NIRF,18. The institute has once again proved its mettle on the parameters of academic excellence, industry outreach, research and placement.

THE BEST ENGINEERING INSTITUTE IN INDIA (NORTH) AWARD, 2018 GLBIANS AT WORLD’S NO. ONE TECHNICAL INSTITUTE Massachusetts Institute of Technology BOOT CAMP 2018, USA

Vishal R. Singh - ME

Abdul Ahad - ME

MIT Boot Camp Globally has 0.13% Average selection rate Started in 2014, only 381 aspirants globally got selected till date

SILVER MEDALS - AKTU MERIT Kavya Garg - CS

Sugandha - IT

Tanzeem - MBA

B. TECH | B. ARCH | MBA | MCA | M. TECH GREATER NOIDA - HELPLINE NO.: 8010-000-234 G. L. Bajaj Institute of Technology & Management Plot No.2, Knowledge Park-III, Greater Noida (U.P.) www.glbitm.org | College Code: 192 PH: 87507 30005, 87507 20005 www.facebook.com\glbitm

MATHURA - TOLL FREE NO.: 1800-2700-342 G. L. Bajaj Group of Institutions National Highway # 2, Akbarpur, Mathura (U.P.) www.glbajajgroup.org | College Code: 511 PH: 84778 20001, 84778 20002 www.facebook.com\glbgoi

Issue 15

Navigator

June 2018

62

44

50

56

Wanderlust – TravelHer

Wanderlust – Surat

Wanderlust – Pench National Park

Varanasi: Where Life Comes Full Circle

A Rendezvous with Surat

Travel writer Aarti Kapur Singh sets out to discover the holy city of Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh.

Make the most of your vacation at the seaside city of Surat, Gujarat.

Reliving Kipling’s Jungle Adventure Explore Pench, known as the inspiration for Rudyard Kipling’s The Jungle Book.

62

70

76

Wanderlust – Lenscape

Wanderlust – Ross Island

Wanderlust – Cuisine

Adventure Trail Need some ideas for your summer break? We give you a quick rundown of some of the most exciting adventure activities from across India.

Reclaimed by Nature

From France, with Love

Head to the beautiful and serene Ross Island, a part of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

Kolkata, Chennai and Puducherry on the East Coast of India are known for their delectable French food.

travel360 won Gold in the 2017 Galaxy Awards (USA) for Best Design Bound Publications in the Travel and Tourism Category

For any feedback, please write to nodalofficer_in@airasia.com. Alternatively, you can also write to sugam.dgca@nic.in or visit www.airsewa.com.

Issue 15

Navigator

June 2018

Here’s the Buzz on AirAsia’s Social Media I was travelling from BBI to CCU when I met Dimpal Saikia at the check-in counter. He gave us a very warm welcome and nice smile. We are happy with his service and look forward to travelling with AirAsia again.

Raj Kumar Murmu

I want to thank and appreciate Swagatika from BLR, who assisted me at the time of boarding and helped me find my baggage. I found the AirAsia staff very helpful, patient and efficient. Staff like Swagatika make us want to continue our experience with AirAsia.

Pratik Priyankar Mishra

44

From the Flight Deck

10 Celebrating Four

Successful Years

of Operations

S. Ramadorai, Chairman, AirAsia India, talks about the next phase of growth for AirAsia India.

Anniversary Special

18 AirAsia India

Turns Four

Good wishes from

AirAsia Allstars.

Calendar

20 Hot Dates Events across the globe in June.

Cover To Cover

Prescription

26 Interview

The princess of

34 Eat Wisely,

Travel Well

82 Fitness Files

Bikaner, Rajyashree Kumari, talks about her new book Palace Of Clouds: A Memoir.

Keep a check on

what you eat while travelling.

Stay healthy and

happy this season

with these fitness accessories.

Scoreboard

Movies & Music

30 Latest Releases

Movie and music releases in the month of June.

Future Forward

32 Point and Shoot

Today’s smartphones double as high-grade cameras, allowing you to travel light.

36 Football Fever

Players to watch out for in the 2018 FIFA World Cup.

City Canvas

40 Colombo,

Sri Lanka Experience the rich heritage of Colombo in Sri Lanka.

Vanity Fare

Cabin Comfort

86 Joy of Flying Inflight exercises by fitness guru Troy Bantleman.

87 In Touch 88 Route Map 92 Destinations

Impressed by the service given by Arpita Sharma and Akram Khan at BBI airport.

They allotted me a seat next to that of my husband.

I am really impressed by the staff's good nature and professionalism. Happy to see staff like this. Will travel with AirAsia again and again.

Mahesh Jalan

A good and efficient worker always should be appreciated for their good work! A very big thank you to Akram who helped us at the AirAsia counter in Bhubaneswar Airport. Bless you and may you always be of help. Thank you Akram.

Moushumi Banerjee

India

Issue 15 June 2018

Singapore Maxposure Global Pte Ltd

Regional Managing Editor R. Rajendra

51 Goldhill Plaza, #07-10/11, Singapore 308900, Tel: +65 31632622

Manager, Public Relations Divya Kumar

UAE

Executive, Public Relations Sanya Kaushik

Maxposure Media Group India Pvt. Ltd CEO & Managing Director Prakash Johari Director Vikas Johari Editor Abhishek Chakraborty Submissions airasia@maxposuremedia.com Advertising info@maxposuremedia.com Marketing marketing@maxposuremedia.com Website maxposuremedia.com India Maxposure Media Group India Pvt Ltd

#TheAddress, Plot No. 62, Okhla Industrial Estate, Phase III, New Delhi-110020, India Tel: +91 11 43011111, Fax: +91 11 43011199 usa Maxposure Media Group LLC

22 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 108, Mineola, New York 11501 Tel: +164 63672916 info@maxposuremedia.com

Bahrain Maxposure Marketing Services WLL

Suite No. 652, 6th Floor, The Lounge Serviced Offices, Building 247, Road No. 1704, Diplomatic Area, P.O.Box 11409, Manama, Bahrain, Tel: +973 17518793 Mob: +973 37778537, +973 37161313 aaliyah@maxposuremedia.com

Bangladesh Subcontinental Media Pvt Ltd

Profficio 2nd Floor, 4 Mohakhali Commercial Area, Dhaka 1212, Bangladesh, Tel: +880 1862260427 shohedul@subcontinentalmedia.com

info@maxposuremedia.com Maxposure Arabia FZ LLC

Dubai Media City, Building No. 8, Ground Floor, Premises No. EO10, P. O. Box 502068, Dubai, UAE Tel: + 971 44310793 info@maxposuremedia.com

Maxposure India offices Ahmedabad 4, Megabyte Business Centre, Navrang Building, Opp Samsung Showroom, Swastik Char Rasta, C.G.Road Ahmedabad-380009 Tel: +91 79 40193627 Bengaluru 409, A Wing, 4th Floor, Mittal Towers, MG Road, Bengaluru-560001, Tel: +91 80 40921037-38 Chandigarh SCO No. 866, 2nd Floor, Office No. 18, NAC Manimajra, Chandigarh-160101 Chennai 2nd Floor, X-42, Sindur Shopping Centre, 2nd Avenue Road, Chennai-600040 Tel: +91 44 42015684 Hyderabad 1-11-222/2, Ground Floor, Street No. 4, Gurumurthy Lane, Begumpet, Hyderabad-500016, Tel: +91 40 40021545 Indore 7/1, 409, 4th Floor, Ratan Mani Complex, Opposite Inter Star Showroom, New Palasia, Indore-452001 Tel: +91 731 4248881 Jaipur Shop No.B-18, Hotel Arco Palace, Opp. Metro Station, Sindhi Camp Station Road, Jaipur-302001 Tel: +91 141 4047655 Kolkata DPS Corporate Club, 1st Floor, 9A, Sebak Baidya Street, Kolkata-700029 Tel: +91 33 40680111 Mumbai Omkar - The Summit Business Bay 7th floor, Unit No.716, Chakala, Andheri Kurla Road, Behind Gurunanak Petrol Pump, Andheri (East), Mumbai - 400093 Tel: +91 22 61991111

Raipur Magnetto Offizo, Office No.546, 5th Floor, Magnetto The Mall, G.E.Road, Labhandi, Raipur, Tel: +91 771 4264571

June 2018

AirAsia India

ISSUE 15

IndIa

On the Cover

AirAsia India turns four. Join in the fun, but don’t take me home! Read me online.

AirAsia Inflight Magazine

International Representation North America Canada, Wayne Saint John The New Base, Tel: +1 416 363 1388, wayne.stjohn@thenewbase.com

Europe France, Nicolas Devos IMM International, Tel: +331 40137905,

Incredible Years

n.devos@imm-international.com

London, David Simpson Simpson Media Ltd, Tel: +44 79 00885456

Four successful years of AirAsia India

david@simpson-media.com

Russia/Switzerland, Gleb Korotkov Halfbudget, Tel: + 7 9852243800, +41 767102525, info@halfbudget.com

Turkey, Tan Bilge, Media Ltd., Tel: +90 212 2758433, tanbilge@medialtd.com.tr

Far East Hong Kong/Indonesia Peter Jeffery Asian Integrated Media Ltd. Tel +852 39106388 peterjeffery@asianimedia.com

Japan, Michiko Kawano Pacific Business Inc Tel: +813 36616138 kawano-pbi@gol.com

Malaysia, Shallie Cheng Mind Sense Sdn.Bhd., Tel: +601 22873092 shalliecheng@gmail.com

South Korea, Jung-Won Suh Sinsegi Media Inc. Tel: +82 27858222 sinsegi-2@sinsegimedia.info

Thailand, Stephen Marsh Media Representation International Tel: +66 22042699, stephen@mediarepint.com

Australia Sydney, Charlton D’Silva Publisher’s Internationalé Tel: +612 92523476 charlton.dsilva@pubintl.com.au

CIN No U22229DL2006PTC152087 travel360 India magazine is printed and published by Prakash Johari on behalf of AirAsia India and published at Maxposure Media Group (India) Pvt. Ltd. (MMGIPL), #TheAddress, Plot No. 62, Okhla Phase III, New Delhi-110020, India. travel360 India is published monthly. All rights reserved. The writing, artwork and/or photography contained herein may not be used or reproduced without the express written permission of MMGIPL. MMGIPL does not assume responsibility for loss or damage of unsolicited products, manuscripts, photographs, artwork, transparencies or other materials. The views expressed in the magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher or AirAsia India. All efforts have been made while compiling the content of this magazine, but we assume no responsibility for the effects arising there from. For inquiries | MMGIPL tel: +91.11.43011111, www. maxposuremedia.com.

from the flight deck

1

06 18

10

Celebrating Four Successful Years of Operations Namaste and welcome aboard AirAsia India.

I am happy to connect with you at a very interesting phase in the journey of AirAsia India; when we are celebrating the fourth Anniversary this month. This joint venture brings together the leadership and pioneering efforts of two large conglomerates, Tata Sons and AirAsia, working towards a united goal of revolutionising commercial aviation in India. I am honoured and humbled that you partnered with us in our vision of making air travel affordable for everyone, and I promise that in the decade ahead, we will strive to deliver much more.

In the last few years, we have been focusing aggressively on our network and route dominance. The journey has been unpredictable, but the lineage of both group companies has given AirAsia India the confidence to establish itself in the country. While there have been challenges to encounter in our growth story, there is a tremendous opportunity in the low cost carrier segment that we have and will continue to nurture.

With a fleet size of 18 covering 20 destinations and a market share of 4.5%, we have witnessed phenomenal growth in the past 18 months, operating from our hubs in Bengaluru, New Delhi and Kolkata.

I am pleased to inform you that we now carry five lakh passengers each month from a humble start in 2014. Our passenger traffic has gone up by 74% as against the same period last year and capacity has increased to 87%. This year continues to be exciting for us and we look forward to enabling many more people to experience affordable air travel. We believe that both the Tata and AirAsia Group have a pool of great talent and ideas to help us become a force to reckon with. AirAsia India will be investing heavily in technology in order to learn more about consumer habits and ensure personalisation of our products and services.

We are constantly working towards developing initiatives to

1. AirAsia India now connects 20 destinations in India.

2. S. Ramadorai, Chairman, AirAsia India.

2

provide you the best deals and experiences through our website and the Mobile App. Your airline will be flying to international sectors soon and we would love to be your preferred choice of airline both in the domestic and international skies!

AirAsia India Allstars are set for the next phase of growth and are committed to making a difference by offering you a delightful experience.

Achieving all this would have been impossible without your unstinted support. We are all ears and open to receiving your feedback. Reach out to us through support.airasia.com to share with us your experiences as it will help us serve you better.

AirAsia India will continue to pave the way for low-cost air travel through innovative solutions, efficient processes and a practical approach to business. I would like to extend my gratitude to you for choosing to fly AirAsia India, and I do hope you enjoy your flight experience with us.

Enjoy amazing deals exclusively on the AirAsia Mobile App! Download now:

Follow us on

spotlight

Rhythm of the Rainforest Mark your calendar as the Rainforest World Music Festival returns to Malaysia’s Sarawak Cultural Village from July 13 to 15!

3

1

06 18

2

Inspired by the haunting melodies of the sape (a traditional lute from Borneo), the Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) was conceived in 1998 as a celebration of the diversity of traditional and indigenous music from across the world. At first, the event only garnered an audience of about 300, but with its impressive programme of ethno-musical lectures, jam sessions, informative workshops and nightly concerts,

16

the popularity of the RWMF skyrocketed, bringing thousands of world music lovers together each year.

What makes RWMF truly unique is its dramatic setting. A 40km drive from Sarawak state’s capital city of Kuching is the Sarawak Cultural Village, a ‘living museum’ nestled in a lush rainforest with magnificent Mt Santubong as a backdrop. Featuring seven traditional dwellings, the village

1. Ilu Leto in concert, RWMF 2017.

2. Night concert under the stars, RWMF 2017.

3. Ba Cissoko from Guinea performing Mandingo tunes at RWMF 2017.

is a remarkable showcase of the lifestyle and customs of the main ethnic groups of Sarawak.

A typical RWMF day begins with morning wellness programmes such as yoga and zumba. In the afternoon, musical workshops bring you up close and personal with renowned world musicians, while evening promises incredible performances on four different stages.

This year’s line-up includes: Warato’o, a bamboo orchestra from Solomon Islands that mixes bluesy reggae and rock with the rhythm of log drums and giant pan pipes; Russia’s Oyme band, a female polyphonic group performing ancient Finno-Ugric folklore; Indonesia’s Gayogayo group with their energetic chestslapping Saman dance (listed as a UNESCO Masterpiece of Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity); and Malaysia’s own six-piece sape band Ilu Leto (meaning 'we, the ladies' in the Kenyah language).

Once you’ve had a taste of RWMF’s heady mix of music, you will be back for more.

Purchase your tickets at airasiaredtix.com For further info, visit rwmf.net

Follow us on

anniversary special

AirAsia India Turns Four!

Allstars from our extensive network send in their good wishes to AirAsia India on this happy occasion.

06 18

“It’s our fourth anniversary and I’m really proud of what we’ve done so far in India.

When AirAsia was launched back in 2001, we set out with one mission – to provide an opportunity for everyone to fly. There’s a lot more to do and a lot more milestones to touch in India. We’re at an important phase of our growth journey, preparing towards launching international operations and gearing up for rapid expansion. My very best wishes to the Allstars at India for a rewarding journey ahead with AirAsia!” ~ Bo Lingam, Deputy Group CEO, AirAsia

“Time really flies in the airline business! AirAsia India celebrates its fourth anniversary this month and we are here to stay in India to further revolutionise low cost travel. Wishing all in India another year of exciting journey. Believe the unbelievable, dream the impossible and never take a NO for an answer.” ~ Loganathan Velaitham, Chief Executive Officer, AirAsia Singapore and Chief Executive Advisor, AirAsia Philippines

“Congratulations to the incredible Allstars at AirAsia India! Your hard work has paid off and has made significant strides in four years.

Together with your fellow Allstars from the Philippines, we share your joy and are one with you as you celebrate this momentous occasion.

May you take some time to reflect on your accomplishments and challenges. We wish everyone with continued growth and prosperity in the years ahead. Mabuhay!” ~ Dexter Comendador, Chief Executive Officer, AirAsia Philippines

18

Follow us on

“Happy anniversary to AirAsia India! This is definitely a milestone in the journey of an airline that has stood the test of highly competitive aviation landscape. Kudos to the spirit of AirAsia India Allstars who continue to push the envelope of India’s aviation industry and the determination to ensure we fulfil AirAsia’s mantra; “Now Everyone Can Fly”.

The future looks bright.

Congratulations once again, and cheers to many more successful years.” ~ Aziz Laikar, Head, Communications, AirAsia Berhad

“Four years of making dreams come true, four years of excitement, colourful memories and many more years of success to come!

Congratulations on your four successful years, AirAsia India!” ~ Nurul Aziz, Quality Assurance, Engineering, AirAsia X

“Congratulations to AirAsia India on your fourth anniversary! It’s incredible to see how much you’ve accomplished in four short years – time flies when you’re having fun! Wishing you continued success for many years to come from all of us at AirAsia Japan” ~ Jenny Wakana, Chief Executive Officer, AirAsia Japan

“It’s our fourth anniversary and we are really proud of that. As we step into another year of exciting operations, cheers to all the Allstars for the effort put in so far!” ~ Menoj Kumar A.V, Security department, Kochi “Grateful to be a part of the Allstars family that consistently performs well!

We are working towards a unified goal of making air travel affordable, and enabling everyone to fly.” ~ Puneet Sharma, Sales, New Delhi “The journey of a thousand miles starts with a single step.

My step with AirAsia started in June 2014 and I feel elated to have been able to serve several guests through the years.” ~ Naga Sai Kumar, Ground Operations, Hyderabad 06 18

“I am thrilled to be a part of yet another celebration with AirAsia India. We’ve come a long way since our initial days and I am happy to be a part of the Allstar family that is growing leaps and bounds!” ~ Naveen Kantharaju, People & Culture, Bengaluru “I am so happy for our success and proud of our hard work and achievements in these four years. Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall. To most people, the sky is the limit, but for us, the sky is our home!” ~ Yamini Joshi Mukherjee, Engineering Department, Goa “It's been less than a year since I joined AirAsia, but it feels like we have walked a thousand miles together.

The colour of our aircraft signifies the colour of our spirit – vibrant and bright! ” ~ Soham Gupta, Ground Operations, Kolkata 19

calendar

Hot Dates Check out what's hot and happening in June!

New Delhi

India and the World: A History in Nine Stories

June 1-31 India and the World is a landmark collaboration between the National Museum in New Delhi, the British Museum in London and the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya in Mumbai. This photo and sculpture exhibition aims to promote global culture by highlighting the strong connections that India has shared historically with the rest of the world. indiaandtheworld.org

Guwahati, Assam

06 18

Ambubachi Mela

to be menstruating during this time. The temple is closed for four

June 22-25 The Ambubachi Mela,

days. On the last day, the idol of the

held at the Kamakhya temple in Guwahati, attracts devotees from all across the globe. The presiding goddess, Devi Kamakhya, is said

goddess is bathed, and rituals are performed; only then are devotees allowed to enter the premises.

File photo: 10th edition of Hyderabad Kids Fair

kamakhyatourism.com

Goa

Sao Joao

June 24 The Sao Joao festival marks the feast of St. John the Baptist in Goa. On this day, the locals wear fancy headgear made of leaves and fruits and carry out colourful processions with music playing in the backdrop. goatourism.gov.in

Gypsum figurine, dating back to 2400 BC

Hyderabad, Telangana

Hyderabad Kids Fair

June 1-4 The 11th edition of the Hyderabad Kids Fair will see several activities, including creative learning, arts and crafts, nutrition workshops, robotics, music and dance. There will also be some interesting shopping options for children, as well as adults. hydkidsfair.com

20

Follow us on

The 2018 FIFA World Cup will be held in Russia from June 15 to July 15, 2018.

calendar Champakulam, Kerala

Champakulam Boat Race

annually in Kerala. Massive boats splitting the waters of the Pampa river make for a mesmerising sight

June 28 The oldest of its kind in the

for tourists. Participants also sing

state, the Champakulam Boat Race kicks off the boat race season held

ancient songs as they row to the finishing line. keralatourism.org

Bengaluru, Karnataka

Evam Presents The IT Guy: Sanjay Manaktala

June 17 Sanjay Manaktala, a well-

06 18

known name in stand-up comedy, is all set to enthral the audience in Indiranagar, Bengaluru, with a humorous take on the IT industry, dating and more. evam.in

Shimla, Himachal Pradesh

Summer Festival June 2-7 Shimla comes alive during the Summer Festival. Several interesting events, including folk dances, fashion shows, flower shows,

an ice-skating festival and screenings of Himachali films, are integral to the celebration. Competitions such as poster-making, photography and more, keep patrons engaged during the course of the festival. himachaltourism.gov.in

Leh, Jammu & Kashmir

Sindhu Darshan

June 12-14 Sindhu Darshan, a three-day festival, is held in Shey Manla, about 8kms from the city of Leh. On this day, devotees take a dip in the River Indus and pay homage to the mighty river and their forefathers . leh.gov.in

22

Follow us on

calendar

Shanghai, China

Kitchen & Bath 2018 Sapporo, Japan

06 18

Yosakoi Soran Festival June 6-10 The Yosakoi Soran Festival is an energetic dance event with dancers clad in striking

Melbourne, Australia

Mansfield Lantern Festival June 23 This lantern festival is held to celebrate the onset of winter and a sense of togetherness with arts

24

costumes and makeup, moving to the rhythm of Hokkaido’s folk song

soran-bushi . Food stalls serving varied cuisines from across the globe are another highlight of the festival. sapporo.travel

June 5-8 Kitchen and Bath 2018 will showcase the latest trends in furniture, interiors and tech innovations pertaining to kitchens and bathrooms. It will also host conferences on current industry trends that can be incorporated in residential units. kitchenbathchina.co

Pattaya, Thailand

Mercure Pattaya Ocean Resort 2 Ball Championship 2018 June 17-23 The event will see golfers from various regions of Thailand battling it out at Pattaya's world-class golf courses. Most of the lush courses are laid over rolling hillsides, and each course is designed to suit all golfing levels. pattayagolftournament.com

and crafts, workshops, local street food, a lantern parade, street theatre, music and more. Participants of the parade release lanterns into the air at dusk, lighting up the night sky. mansfieldlanternfestival.com.au

Follow us on

Alice in Wonderland is based on a real 10-year-old girl. Her name was Alice Liddell, and her family was close friends with author Lewis Carroll. While on a boating trip, she asked him to tell her a story — and that’s how Alice was born.

cover to cover

The Royal Life Princess Rajyashree Kumari, the princess of Bikaner, writes a memoir about the many generations of her Rajput family in her latest book, Palace of Clouds: A Memoir.

06 18 Do you have any advice for people who, like you, are translating a lifetime of work to the page?

I am certain that all of us have a story to tell about ourselves, our families and the world that we live in. The best way to go about this is to have a journal and keep recording thoughts as one goes along. Then there is less to worry about when one begins the process of writing.

What is your book about?

My book details the family history of an aristocratic Rajput family and is semiautobiographical. The history of my family is well-documented, so it was not difficult to write about the many generations. It was altogether an interesting journey to pen down the life history of maharajas and revisit stories that were long-forgotten.

Why did you choose this particular subject for your latest book?

Both my previous books, The Lallgarh Palace: Home of the Maharajas of Bikaner and The Maharajas of Bikaner, are factual. The first is the history of our palace in Bikaner and the five generations of the family

26

who have lived here. The second is about my ancestors. Writing a memoir seemed to be the most natural progression at this particular time.

How did you approach the research for Palace of Clouds: A Memoir?

Most of the material was based on my own memories, but of course, a certain amount of research was needed for which there was plenty of material easily available in our Maharaja Ganga Singhji Trust office. The trust office has copies of Sanskrit translations of our history, old manuscripts, files and books on the life of maharajas.

Quick Questions What is the hardest sentence; first or last?

Last Next book in the pipeline?

No plans at all! Just recovering from this one at present.

What does literary success look like to you?

My books are not mainstream or popular fiction, so success is a much quieter process. When someone tells me that they enjoyed reading one of my books, that is a huge thrill for me.

Does the portrayal of the royal city of Bikaner in your book still hold relevance?

The Bikaner that I write about continues to be a reasonably unspoilt destination. Its remoteness is precisely why my ancestors chose to settle here five centuries ago.

Follow us on

VACATION DOWNLOAD GRAPHIC EDIT

SPRING SUMMER 2018 COLLECTION Follow us on

Parx Exclusive Stores: Aurangabad: Pheonix Prozone Mall Bangalore: Phoenix Market City I Mantri Square Bareilly: Phoenix United Mall I Shree Shree Fashion Villa, Near Degree College Chaurah Calicut: Sky Enterprises I Rasberrey Building, Red Cross Road I Winsphere, Hi-Lite Mall-First Floor Kashipur: Shraddha Elite, Ratan Cinema Road Dehradun: Rajpur Road Jaipur: 278, Ground Floor, M.I. Road Lucknow: Vaishnavi Sales - Aliganj, Shop No. 2 & 3 Swaroop Arcade I Vaishnavi Sales - SHALIMAR ELLDEE Plaza, Shop No. G-26, Kanpur: Z Squre Mall Nainital: Guru Gobind Singh Tower Haldwani: Glamour Exclusive Rudrapur Rajiv Exclusive, H-26 Gurudwara Road, Main Market New Delhi: V3S East Centre Mall I Shop No.G-74, Shaheen Bagh Trivendrum: Mall Of Travancore, Shop No 33, Ground Floor

cover to cover

Night of Happiness Tabish Khair; Pan Macmillan India

This is a fiction about Anil Mehrotra, an entrepreneur, and his trusted colleague, Ahmed.

Suspicious incidents push Anil to hire a private investigator to dig up Ahmed's past.

Hemis: A Novel Sky-clad: The Extraordinary Life and Times of Akka Mahadevi Mukunda Rao; Westland

Mukunda Rao charts the life of one of the ground-breaking feminist icons of Indian history, Akka Mahadevi, who believed that spirituality could liberate everyone.

06 18

28

Satyajit Ray; HarperCollins India

Stalking God

Madhu Tandan; HarperCollins India

The protagonist of the novel, Ajay, is accused of infidelity by his wife, Akanksha.

To destress and find solace in the hills, he sets out on a trek to Ladakh. But as soon as he reaches his destination, Ajay finds himself stranded, as the region experiences the worst floods in its history. He finds shelter in a monastery in Hemis Sanctuary.

There, he meets the abbot, and Anna, a young scholar, who are trying to find a lost manuscript that contains the missing years of Jesus. Ajay joins them on their quest, setting in motion a series of events that could change his life forever.

Travails with the Alien

Anjali Kumar; Orion Spring

Though religiously uncommitted, Anjali Kumar was confronted by the need to find God when her daughter was born. Stalking God explores her journey as she sets out on a spiritual pilgrimage to Peru where she practices shamanism, and transcendental meditation, and tries to speak with the dead.

Fall from Grace Danielle Steel; Pan Macmillan UK

International bestseller Danielle Steel churns out the story of Sydney Wells whose near-perfect life comes to a standstill when her husband dies, leaving her a widow at the age of 49. She tries to realign her life when she starts working for a high-street clothing chain.

The Architecture of Loss

Zainab Priya Dala; Speaking Tiger

At the tender age of six, Afroze Bhana was estranged from her mother and forced to fend for herself. She grew up to be a notable architect in Cape Town.

But when her mother fell ill, Afroze was forced to return home and confront her past.

In the 1960s Satyajit Ray wrote the screenplay for what would have been the first-of-its-kind sci-fi film to be made in India. It was called The Alien, based on his own short story Bonkubabur Bandhu, about an alien landing in Bengal and befriending a boy. On being prompted by Arthur C. Clarke, who found the screenplay promising, Ray sent the script to Columbia Pictures in Hollywood, who agreed to back it. Peter Sellers was approached.

Then started the Ordeals of the Alien, as Ray calls it, as even after a series of trips to the USA, UK and France, the film was never made.

A slice of undocumented cinema history, Travails with the Alien, includes Ray’s detailed essay on the project with the full script of The Alien as well as the original short story on which the screenplay was based.

Follow us on

The sounds made by the Brachiosaurus in Jurassic Park were a combination of whale and donkey sounds.

movies & music

Latest Releases We bring you your monthly dose of entertainment.

Music

Hindi

Baazaar

Update your playlist with these latest soundtracks!

Saif Ali Khan, Chitrangada Singh, Rohan Mehra, Radhika Apte Plot Baazaar will reveal the underbelly of Mumbai and the dangerous world of stock trading.

Revolving around the life of a stock broker, this film draws heavily from the 2013 Hollywood film, The Wolf of Wall Street.

June 4 Cast

English

Ocean's 8

No Shame Release Date June 8 Artiste Lily Allen Label Warner Music

Hindi

Sanju June 29 Cast Ranbir Kapoor, Anushka Sharma, Sonam Kapoor, Dia Mirza Plot The biopic of actor Sanjay Dutt, Sanju will showcase his colourful and adventurous life – film career, jail sentence and personal life – in detail.

06 18

Hindi

Jasmine - Story of a Leased Womb June 4 Cast

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan

Plot This film is inspired by the story

of a Gujarati woman who agrees to become a surrogate, but upon the birth of the child, refuses to give him up. Over the course of her pregnancy, she becomes attached to, and tries to impose her rights over the baby.

June 1 Cast Sandra Bullock, Cate Blanchett, Anne Hathaway, Rihanna Plot The fourth movie of the Ocean's franchise that began in 2001, Ocean's 8 revolves around the story of a team of elite larcenists, who attempt an ambitious heist at the city's famous annual Met Gala charity ball.

As Long as I Have You Release Date June 1 Artiste Roger Daltrey Label Ploydor

Gravity Release Date June

22

Bullet for My Valentine Label Spinefarm Artiste

Tamil

Saamy Square June 14 Cast Vikram, Keerthy Suresh, Bobby Simha, Soori Plot A film about revenge and the constant battle of good against evil, Saamy Square revolves around a foulmouthed police officer who struggles to keep his morality intact in a corrupt society.

30

Expectations Release Date June 22 Artiste Bebe Rexha Label Warner Music

Follow us on

The J-SH04 was the first ever phone with a built-in camera of 110,000-pixel CMOS and a 256-colour display. It was introduced in November 2000 in Japan.

future forward

Point and Shoot

Mobile phones are slowly becoming the camera of choice for travellers, allowing them to pack light while also helping to capture various moments of their journey effortlessly.

1. Samsung Galaxy S9 2. Photograph taken on the Gionee S10 Lite.

3. Vivo V9 Youth

3

1

06 18

Samsung Galaxy S9 & S9+ The camera has been reimagined in the Galaxy S9 and S9+ with a dual aperture lens, along with AR emojis, super slow-motion capability and stereo speakers tuned by AKG with Dolby Atmos®.

The best part is that the camera functions like the human eye, expanding and contracting like the iris. samsung.com Gionee S10 Lite The S10 Lite comes with a professional 16MP selfie camera, which excels in different modes such as group selfie and bokeh selfie. With a customised selfie flash to spread

light more evenly and softly on the subjects’ faces, this phone attracts a lot of selfie addicts. gionee.co.in

Masterclass

Itel S42 This smartphone is equipped with a dual flash 13MP phase detection auto focus (PDAF) rear camera and a 13MP front camera, supported by a f/2.0 aperture, 5P lens, clubbed with a 120-degree wide selfie angle and bokeh beauty mode. All these features enable users to click sharp, high-definition pictures.

Tips for clicking stunning pictures on your smartphone.

Clean the lens Your phone spends a lot of time in pockets or bags, leading to a dirty lens. Use a soft cloth to clean your lens before taking a shot.

itel-mobile.com

InFocus Vision 3 PRO The device comes with a special 2

Set focus While clicking a picture, ensure that the subject is in sharp focus. A yellow box on the screen indicates the focus point in all smartphones.

Different perspectives Shoot from different angles and heights for dramatic pictures.

32

camera feature ‘Dualfie’, which allows users to simultaneously use the front and rear camera and display both the images together on the larger screen. The smartphone has a 13MP and 8MP 120° wide-angle dual rear lens camera, which allows for more light to fall on the subject. infocusindia.co.in Vivo V9 Youth The Vivo V9 Youth is a variant of the recently launched Vivo V9. Its rear camera is capable of shooting bokeh-enabled pictures, ensuring high quality of the out-of-focus or blurry parts of the image.

It comes equipped with a 16MP selfie camera, which uses the AI Face beauty feature to deliver clear and stunning selfies. The rear camera has Ultra HD, retina flash slo-motion and live photos, while the front camera has face beautifying video call, camera filter, gender detection, AR stickers, HDR and portrait effects. vivo.com

Follow us on

SUMMER

RARE RABBIT

Prescription

The first energy bars were made for astronauts. Pillsbury created Space Food Sticks in the 1960s “to be able to take into space, to have long shelf life, to not have to be refrigerated,” says Natalia Petrzela, a post-war historian.

Eat Wisely, Travel Well Don’t let your vacation ruin your diet. Watch what you eat when you’re on the move to stay healthy, happy and energised.

Travelling with Aunt Flo

words: Avni Kaul, Wellness Coach and Nutritionist, NutriActivania

06 18

34

In an increasingly healthconscious world, food and exercise are quickly becoming top priorities for millennials, and generation X alike. But, as soon as we’re in holiday mode, all bets are off.

Regime gives way to relaxation, and fast food somehow becomes more tempting. If you’re on a short trip, culinary indulgences are excusable, even encouraged. But if you’re travelling for several days or weeks, you need to be conscious of your food choices.

As you explore the many facets of a destination, skip the fast food stalls and opt for some fresh fruits,

dry fruits and flavoured yoghurt to take care of sudden hunger pangs.

Remember to eat at regular intervals and keep your portions small so that you do not get sluggish or sleepy. Having plenty of protein is a good idea - it keeps one alert and stabilises blood sugar. Keep yourself hydrated at all times to cure junk-food cravings and symptoms of overexposure to the sun. Water also flushes out toxins from your body, helping you stay fresh and healthy.

Following these simple guidelines will make holidaying a much enjoyable experience.

Dry fruits contain more fibre than the same-sized serving of their fresh counterparts.

Fibre helps keep your digestive system running smoothly. As per a Harvard School of Public Health study, fibre also helps prevent obesity, heart disease and some forms of cancer.

1. Baked goods, sodas and the like should be avoided because they contain simple carbohydrates and make you feel bloated. Instead, opt for food that contains complex carbohydrates such as oats, whole wheat, lentils and soy milk.

2. Heavy periods can contribute to iron deficiency, which can cause tiredness and mood swings. To counter this, eat foods like beans, dark chocolate and leafy greens, which have high iron content.

The Power of Turmeric

3. Walk whenever you can along with light-to-moderate exercise such as swimming or yoga – exercise releases endorphins, which in turn elevate your mood.

Travelling usually means eating at different places every time. Eating out so often can lead to a troublesome digestive system. To your rescue is turmeric. Of all the nutritional supplements in existence, turmeric may be on top of the list because of the numerous health benefits it offers. Turmeric helps in reducing stomach and intestinal gas and repairs internal damage and inflammation. It is also used to treat nausea and vomiting, which is a common problem encountered while travelling.

4. Excessive consumption of caffeine can lead to bloating, which is the last thing that you would like to suffer from during your periods. Two cups a day are considered to be moderate and therefore recommended, to boost your energy levels naturally.

Follow us on

Note: Always consult your doctor before embarking on any alternative therapy or exercise regime.

Food Fact

Dietary discipline helps regulate periods. It can also alleviate pain as well as Premenstrual Syndrome.

Scoreboard

Football Fever As the curtains rise on football’s greatest extravaganza, the 2018 FIFA World Cup taking place in Russia from June 15 - July 15, we bring you a list of players to watch out for!

1. Timo Werner won the 2017 FIFA Confederations Cup's Golden Boot award after earning three goals for the German national team.

2. Lionel Messi was declared as April’s Player of the Month.

For Your Diary

Semi-finals July 10: Winner QF1 v/s Winner QF2 (Krestovsky Stadium, St Petersburg) July 11: Winner QF3 v/s Winner QF4 (Luzhniki Stadium, Moscow) Third-placed play-off July 14: Runner-up SF1 v/s Runner-up SF2 (Krestovsky Stadium, St Petersburg) Final July 15: Winner SF1 v/s Winner SF2 (Luzhniki Stadium, Moscow)

06 18

1

Timo Werner (Germany) All of just 22, Timo Werner is a forward player who proved his capabilities by spearheading the German team during the Confederations Cup in June 2017. Widely believed to be the focal point of Germany's attack, he has already scored seven goals in 12 international tournaments this season. The RB Leipzig striker is also gunning for the FIFA 2018 World Cup Golden Boot and believes that they're the "absolute favourites" this year.

Lionel Messi (Argentina) This is Messi's fourth appearance in the FIFA World Cup. The footballer who

36

just turned 30 has had a fantastic run up to the tournament – he has been declared as April’s Player of the Month after he scored two hattricks to help his side, Barcelona, clinch a league title recently Nobody would dispute Messi's status as one of the all-time greats, but many believe that he cannot be considered on the same level as Diego Maradona until he wins the World Cup. This is his chance.

Mohamed Salah Ghaly (Egypt) The poster boy for Egyptian football, Salah Ghaly, a 24-year-old forward player, has risen tremendously through the ranks in the 2017-2018

2

Follow us on

DISCOVER SERENITY DISCOVER SERENITY

Some at least least once once inin aalife lifetime. time.The The Someplaces places need need be be experienced experienced at strikingly Resort on on the the shores shoresofofthe theaweawestrikingly beautiful beautiful Swosti Swosti Chilika Resort inspiring place. The The sight sightofofthe theland land inspiring Chilika Chilika Lake Lake is one such place. disappearing bluish water water isissomething somethingthat that disappearing into into the the vast expanse of bluish needs the ones ones who whofind findsolace solaceinin needsto tobe be experienced experienced and behold. For the such Resort presents presentsthe theirresistible irresistible suchnatural natural splendor, splendor, Swosti Chilika Resort

Inclusion Inclusion Potmaking and many Welcome drinks and Fruit

PACKAGE DETAILS PACKAGE DETAILS

Mid-Lake County Mid-Lake County

2 Nights / 3 Days 2 Nights / 3 Days

`14999/`14999/-

+Taxes Per Room on Double Occupancy

+Taxes Per Room on Double Occupancy

Book Now! Book Now!

SWOSTI CHILIKA RESORT SWOSTI CHILIKA RESORT

Welcome drinks

Basket in the roomand Fruit Basket room Stayinonthe Single/Double

Stay on Single/Double

Occupancy on MAP basis Occupancy onCourt MAP basis Badminton

Badminton Court Zone Usage of Games

Usage of Games Zone and Swimming Pool

and Swimming Pool the Activities throughout

Activities throughout day like Yoga, Tree the

Plantation, Towel day like Yoga, Treeart, Plantation, Towel art,

Potmaking and many

more. more.

Hi-Speed Wireless Internet

Hi-Speed Wireless Internet

420 Sqft room including

420 Sqftfacing roomtoincluding

balcony, balcony, facing&toSwimming Amphitheatre Amphitheatre & Swimming Pool.

Pool.

32 inch LED Television.

32 inch LEDmaker Television.

Tea/Coffee in room

02 Bottles of Package Tea/Coffee maker in room

Drinking Water per day.

02 Bottles of Package

Drinking Water per day.

Value Addition

Value Additionon Ala-Carte Food 20% Discount

20% Discount onLaundry Ala-Carte Food

10% Discount on

10% Discount Laundry

MAP-It includeson Room, Breakfast,

MAP-It includes

Lunch or Dinner at Room, Orana Breakfast, Lunch orFro Dinner at Orana To and Boating Facilities to

To and Fro Boating Facilities to Kalijai Temple

Kalijai Pick Temple up or Drop facilities to nearest

Pick upStation or Drop facilities to nearest Railway

Railway Station 01 Child up to 7 years can stay

without charge 01 Child up to 7 years can stay

without charge

Terms & Conditions

Terms & Conditions This package is Valid up to 31

This package is Valid up to 31

Sept.

2018 Sept.

2018 is subject to The booking

The booking is subject to

availability and against availability and against advanced payment only advanced payment only Extra Bed@Rs.3500+Taxes

Extra per roomBed@Rs.3500+Taxes per day

per room per day Check in-2.00 p.m. and

Check p.m. and Check out-in-2.00 11.00 a.m.

Package is 11.00 not applicable Check outa.m. on

Black out dates Package is not applicable on

Black out dates

At : Odia Alapur, Po : Pathara, Via : Gorapali, Dist : Ganjam - 761029, Odisha, India At : Odia PAlapur, Po 2227400, : Pathara, M: Via7064476122, : Gorapali, Dist : Ganjam - 761029, Odisha, India : 91 680 7008990802, 7978378916 P : 91 680 2227400, M: 7064476122, 7008990802, 7978378916 E: info@swostichilika.com | www.swostihotels.com E: info@swostichilika.com | www.swostihotels.com

Toll Free No.: 1800 1231 414 Toll Free No.: 1800 1231 414

Scoreboard

To attend matches of the 2018 FIFA World Cup you need to obtain a FAN ID. You can apply for your FAN ID after paying for your tickets and receiving your ticket confirmation email.

Visit www.fan-id.ru for more information.

1

06 18

3

skills and eye for goals, he has been nicknamed La Joya, meaning 'the jewel' in Spanish. Known to be a game changer with his exceptional strikes, Paulo could be Argentina’s best hope in this World Cup.

2

season. The pace and technique of this Liverpool player came to the forefront when he scored a lastminute penalty against Congo, ending Egypt's 28-year-long wait to qualify for the World Cup. After he picked up two goals against his former club Roma in the first leg of the Champions League 2017-2018, he surpassed Cristiano Ronaldo to become Europe's top scorer (43) in all competitions. Little wonder then

38

that he has been voted as the Player of the Year for the 2017-2018 season by the Professional Footballers' Association earlier this year.

Paulo Dybala (Argentina) This 24-year-old forward plays for Italian club Juventus and the Argentina national team. He has scored 10 goals in seven league games this season. Known for his agility on the field, his dribbling

1. Mohamed Salah Ghaly made his debut with the senior national team of Egypt in 2011.

2. Paulo Dybala is nicknamed La Joya, meaning “the jewel” in Spanish.

3. Cristiano Ronaldo is the first player to win four European Golden Shoes.

Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal) The world’s highest-paid athlete in 2017 (according to Forbes), Cristiano Ronaldo is also considered by many as the greatest finisher in the history of football. After leading Spanish club Real Madrid to its first back-to-back Champions League title in 2016 and 2017, he also helped Portugal win its first European Championship in 2016. It remains to be seen if the five-time Ballon d'Or winner can do it for Portugal.

Follow us on

City Canvas

Colombo, Sri Lanka Colombo is the perfect getaway for the contemporary explorer, thanks to its eclectic mix of the traditional and modern, with heritage buildings and old churches, as well as happening pubs and stylish boutiques.

Insider's View Do not miss these attractions in Colombo.

06 18

2

Begin your day with a tuk tuk ride to Pettah. Tucked away on Wolfendal Lane, Pettah, is the Wolvendaal Church. It was built in the 18th century for Dutch officials. This white building with a red roof resembles a Greek cross and houses antique Dutch furniture, tombstones, a pipe organ and pews. From there, move on to Colombo Fort Railway Station and explore the area around it - the Pettah Market and Colombo Fort are nearby.

words: Ganesh Vancheeswaran

1

40

Colombo, Sri Lanka’s capital city, is a gateway for travellers into this tiny, tear-drop-shaped island. With the country’s rising popularity as a tourist destination in recent years, Colombo too has gained its share of attention. It sits on the must-visit list of many dedicated travellers, given the beauty of the city’s pristine beaches and forests.

Colombo has responded very well to this new-found popularity.

On one hand, it retains the bucolic charm and laidback lifestyle that

Sri Lanka is so well known for. On the other, it has acquired the glitz and glamour of a cosmopolitan city, with restaurants, boutiques and soaring skyscrapers. Clearly, Colombo comfortably wears its colonial past (as a Portuguese, Dutch and British colony) and its Sinhalese-Tamil present on its sleeve. This paradox makes for a very interesting cityscape, replete with heritage buildings, bustling markets, seaside vistas and street food stalls.

1. Colombo's traditional Kandyan dance show.

2. The 18th-century Wolvendaal Church.

In the evening, head to Galle Face to watch the sun set into the Indian Ocean. Watching people fly kites along this stretch is another pleasant pastime.

Don’t forget to take a look at the historic Galle Face hotel at one end of this stretch. From there, the Old Dutch Hospital precinct is a short walk away. Built in 1667, this is one of the oldest buildings in the city.

Follow us on

Ceylon cinnamon is an expensive, rare and one of the most recommended varieties of cinnamon, and Sri Lanka produces about 80-90% of the world's total production.

Budget & Blowout Guide Treat yourself, or save your money? Our guide can help you decide.

Pettah Market One of the city’s busiest areas, the legendary Pettah market offers a melange of sights, sounds, colours and aromas, with vendors selling a vast range of products including jewellery, clothing, electronic goods, flowers, vegetables and other food products. A leisurely stroll offers you an insight into the way of life of the locals. If you wish to buy something, make sure you bargain for the best price.

Silvikris Villa Staying in this lovely bungalow, you will never guess that you are in the heart of a commercial area. The rooms, offering lovely views of the garden, are comfortably furnished and air-conditioned, and have private baths. A couple of attendants ensure that basic service is delivered to guests. Tuk tuks (auto rickshaws), taxis and buses are available from the main road, which is a short walk away. silvikrisvillas.com

Eat

Street Food in Fort Area Food is affordable and plentiful in this richly endowed nation. You can get delectable fare at the street-side stalls and carts in the locality adjoining the fort. A typical Sri Lankan lunch comprises of rice, a few curries, seafood and sambol (a condiment made with grated coconut, red chillies and onions). For breakfast and dinner, you could have appam (pancake made of fermented rice and coconut milk) and idiyappam (steamed rice noodles) along with vegetarian or non-vegetarian curries.

Geoffrey Bawa’s Residence No. 11 Geoffrey Bawa, a leading architect in the 1960s, has left behind a rich legacy in the form of several buildings. His former home in Colombo is an example of his tropical design style, which incorporates strategically placed windows to allow for natural breeze. Converted into a memorial, it is now open to visitors. For the culture-seeker, the appeal lies in the open styling of the house, and the wonderful relics borrowed from Bawa’s personal collection. geoffreybawa.com

Ministry of Crab In Colombo, crabs have a special place on the plate of gourmands, and Ministry of Crab does a great job by serving the crustaceans in various delectable forms, such as baked crab, chilli crab and pepper crab. Run by two ex-captains of the Sri Lankan cricket team along with Darshan Munidasa, a well-known chef, this upscale restaurant is popular among the locals. It gets crowded on most evenings, so reserving a table is recommended. ministryofcrab.com

06 18

Shop

Gangaramaya Temple When Buddhism spread southwards from India, Sri Lanka was one of the nations that embraced the religion with fervour. Gangaramaya temple is a seat of learning for Theravada Buddhism and reflects the spiritual essence of the country. Apart from meditating under the large trees here, you can witness an array of gilded gifts made by devotees over several years, admire the statues of the Buddha and browse through artefacts in the temple museum.

Do

Splurge

stay

Save

Barefoot This is perhaps the best destination for a variety of high-end Sri Lankan handicrafts, handloom, books, jewellery and assorted artefacts. In that sense, it is more of a fine shopping experience rather than just a boutique.

The Garden Café downstairs is a good place for a meal. Jazz concerts are held here every Saturday evening. The Barefoot experience is reflective of Sri Lankan culture and history, with a dose of luxe. barefootceylon.com

The Steuart Staying at The Steuart is like being cocooned in history.

The hotel is housed in the erstwhile headquarters of George Steuart & Co, one of the country’s oldest mercantile establishments. The Scottish heritage of the building is evident from the décor and style of the restaurant and lounges.

The restaurant menu has Continental and Sri Lankan options. Rooms on the upper floors offer striking views of the cityscape, including that of the Old Dutch Hospital complex. citrusleisure.com

Getting There Colombo is accessible easily via Chennai, Tiruchirappalli and Kochi. airasia.com

41

Travelher

Varanasi: Where Life Comes Full Circle 06 18

From the hypnotic evening prayer to the mesmerising variety of Banarasi silks and jewels, Varanasi holds an unparalleled allure. Aarti Kapur Singh revels in its natural beauty and rich history.

W

ith a history dating back to over 5,000 years, Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh is said to be one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world. Named so because of the confluence of the rivers Varuna and Assi here, it is also known as Kashi, because it was referred to as Kasi in the Rig Veda (originating from the Sanskrit word ‘kas’ meaning “to shine”); and Benares, which is a modified version of Varanasi.

Blessed with the presence of the mighty Ganga, Varanasi is the spiritual capital of India. It is a place where death is celebrated, as it is widely believed by the Hindus that dying here promises salvation. My earlier encounter with

44

Varanasi had been rather fleeting.

I had been to Varanasi eons ago as a documentary filmmaker while making a short movie on its famous silks, but didn't really get a chance to explore the ghats or the embankment.

I wanted to explore the place in its entirety. I started my journey from New Delhi and after a train ride of about 10 hours, I was in the holy city. I straightaway headed to Raj Ghat from the station.

Tryst With History My stay was booked at Brijrama Palace, a heritage property recently converted into a luxury hotel.

Locals told me that the best way to see and explore the ghats of Varanasi is by hiring a bajra

Follow us on

06 18

A priest rowing a boat on the River Ganga in Varanasi.

45

(local boat). I had assumed that the boats would be modest, more functional than anything.

So, I was quite surprised to see majestic versions, luxurious and expensive-looking, docked close to the smaller dinghies. The guide narrated Varanasi's history in the 15 minutes that it took to row from Raj Ghat to Munshi Ghat, where the hotel is located. I was soon ready to explore the several ghats of Varanasi, the first pitstop being the Dashashwamedh Ghat.

Fording Life & Death Our bajra was moored opposite Dashashwamedh Ghat, the perfect spot to witness the evening prayer. It was mesmeric to watch thousands of diyas (earthen oil lamps) floating on the Ganga, casting a luminous hue over the ritual. The aroma of incense, the

reverberation of the sound produced by conches and the collective devotion of people all around was spectacular.

My next stop was Manikarnika Ghat, a place where cremations take place non-stop, every hour, every day, every season. The Manikarnika temple here is one of the 51 shakti peethas (holy place of cosmic power).

After the amazing experience, I returned to my hotel where I was offered the delectable and regal Banarasi chaandi thali (platter) for dinner, a sumptuous array of 16 dishes, a perfect end to a fulfilling day.

Citadel of Learning & Culture The next day was reserved for the sights and sounds of Varanasi. I began my sojourn with divine blessings

"It was hypnotic to watch thousands of diyas (earthen oil lamps) floating on the Ganga, casting a luminous hue over the ritual."

1. Tourists and pilgrims look on as the Ganga aarti (ritual) is performed by priests at Dashashwamedh Ghat. 2. A devotee meditating at one of the ghats in Varanasi.

1

06 18

Follow us on

About the Author

2

Aarti Kapur Singh is an independent writer with close to two decades of experience in media.

Having worked in radio, TV and print media, she is now indulging in her passion to explore the world, while also pursuing a PhD and raising her son.

- a trip to the magnificent Durga temple, followed by a visit to the Sankatmochan temple and then out of sheer curiosity, a stopover at the Banaras Hindu University (BHU). Established in 1916 by Madan Mohan Malaviya, BHU is one of the very few universities in India where you can opt for a specialisation in Vedic scriptures and studies. At the Art and Archaeological Museum here, I came across a collection of handwritten notes by leaders of the Indian Independence.

06 18

The evening was reserved for washing my sins away at the Kashi Vishwanath temple - one of the most revered pilgrimage sites. It is said that this is the only place where Yama (the lord of death) has no jurisdiction.

"This is why it is believed that embracing death, being cremated or performing last rites here ensures a straight passage to heaven and to Shiva, thus breaking the cycle of rebirth,� informed the priest-cumguide who accompanied me to the Kashi Vishwanath temple.

Souvenir Shopping Following this, I decided to indulge in some of the material goods that Varanasi is famous for. The shopping alleys of Varanasi are fascinating to explore and exciting to get lost in! The city is famous for Banarasi silk and ornate

47

1

06 18 1. Aarti enjoying a boat ride during her visit to Varanasi. 2. A local saree maker adding finishing touches to a silk saree. Banarasi sarees are world famous.

2

48

jewels. The main shopping areas in this city include Vishwanath Lane, Thateri Bazaar, Chowk and Godowilia. I was on a quest for some silk. After examining and studying an array of textiles – neelambari (with a blue warp), ring-paar (a saree that can pass through a ring), shwetaambari (cotton on a white background) and other rare cloth – I picked up a few sarees. I headed back to my hotel to turn in early because I wanted to be up in time to catch the sunrise at Assi Ghat.

As planned, I attended the morning yoga session at Assi Ghat. This spiritual experience was followed up by a two-hour music recital and a yagya (fire sacrifice) at the ‘Subahe-Banaras’. The view of the sunrise in the backdrop made the whole experience even more enchanting.

While Varanasi's history holds instances of deaths and destruction, it is also a place where one learns so much about culture and life itself.

If one has to describe the soul of this place in a sentence, the British author Tahir Shah’s words are quite apropos, “The combination of enlightenment and death is the primary business of the city.”

Follow us on

Wanderlust / Surat

A Rendezvous with Surat 06 18

India’s West Coast is studded with stunning locations, and Surat ranks high on this list. Apart from being on the world map for diamond trading, it has a vibrant history, impressive monuments, a lovely beach, and offers a plethora of Gujarati culinary delights!

Words Anita Rao Kashi

Dumas beach is an urban beach along the Arabian Sea.

50

Follow us on

06 18

51

"In the heart of the city and located on the banks of the Tapti is the massive, weather-beaten 16th century Surat Castle or Old Fort."

2

06 18

1

L

ocated by the Arabian Sea and on the banks of the River Tapti (also called Tapi), Surat has always been a commercial centre known for several trades. By far, it is synonymous with diamond trade.

According to estimates, over 90 per cent of the world’s diamonds are cut and polished here.

However, Surat has much more going for it, making it a lovely destination for a short break. A city that is emblematic of the state of Gujarat, it has a long and colourful history that speaks of European invaders, Mughal rule and the British Raj. The city’s landscape comprises a pristine beach,

52

historical monuments, architectural gems spanning several styles, beautiful gardens, and parks, and many other landmarks.

Sea Sojourn Dumas beach in Surat is the go-to place for locals and tourists alike. Perfect for sunbathing and swimming, Dumas has become the hotspot for college students and young couples. The mild breeze from the sea provides a happy relief from the heat during the day time.

Also a famed picnic spot, the beach is always abuzz with hawkers selling a variety of snacks, including the famous tomato bhajiya (deep fried tomato fritter).

Follow us on

Apart from the distinct briny smell of the sea, the air is always redolent with the combined aroma of the snacks, which is rather enticing.

However, as the sun sets, the beach empties pretty quickly. An air of mystery surrounds the place and the dark sands assume an eerie hue. If the locals are to be believed, Dumas beach is one of the most haunted sites in the state, if not the country, and there are several tales of strange, possibly supernatural occurrences. The locals will be happy to regale you with their dramatic

renditions of paranormal activity, walking spirits, and the like. Some attribute it to the burial ground in the vicinity. However, these ghost stories don’t deter the will of explorers as it records heavy footfall almost every day.

History Beckons In the heart of the city and located on the banks of the Tapti is the massive, weatherbeaten 16th century Surat Castle or Old Fort. It was ordered to be built by the ruler of Ahmedabad, Sultan Mahmood III as a defense

fortification against Portuguese invasions. Twelve metres in height, with walls as thick as 4m, the fort has towers in the corners and bastions on top for cannons.

The most fascinating part about this structure is that it has an 18m ditch on the land side with a drawbridge, magnificent gateways and arches, among several other structures. According to legend, the Portuguese never attacked Surat after the fort was built, validating its impregnable status and the perception of power it created.

1. Domed roof of the Swaminarayan Temple in Surat.

2. The old Dutch cemetery

06 18

53

06 18

1

Tomb Tales Almost rivalling Dumas beach in terms of spookiness are the multiple cemeteries – English, Dutch and Armenian – that are scattered across Surat. The Dutch and the English tried to outdo each other in building elaborate and exquisite tombs as symbols of their might. As a result, the cemeteries have astonishingly large, decorative monuments such as the Mausoleum of the Oxenden Brothers in the English cemetery and the Mausoleum of Baron Adrian van Reede. Both have domes, cupolas and heavy ornamentation that are rarely found in cemeteries and are surrounded by beautiful gardens.

54

1. A vendor deepfrying pakode (fritters).

2. The Surat Fort was built by Sultan Mahmood III as a defense fortification against frequent Portuguese invasions.

2

Tempting Treats When you’re in Surat, you never have to go too far for some delicious food. Just walk out into the street and you’ll find dozens of food stalls selling sumptuous Gujarati delicacies!

Visitors can choose from the inexhaustible variety of street food such as the khamani (a tangy snack made of pulses, chillies, garlic and a variety of spices), dhokla (snack made from a batter of gram flour), ghari (sweet dumplings stuffed with dry fruits), nan khatai (cookies with almond toppings), and many more. This is just the tip of the iceberg.

There's a lot hidden in the gullies (bylanes) of Surat that can satisfy

even the most adventurous foodie. The footpaths of Gaurav Path at Piplod and Zampa Bazaar are some of the most popular food joints in Surat.

Wandering around the city, you will be surprised to discover that underneath the veneer of Surat’s commercialism exists an experience that is rich in culture, food, heritage and history.

Getting There AirAsia now flies to Surat from Bengaluru. airasia.com

Follow us on

Wanderlust / Pench National Park

06 18

56

Follow us on

Reliving Kipling’s Jungle Adventure

06 18

For Rudyard Kipling fans who have grown up enamoured by the characters of Mowgli and Bagheera, Pench National Park in Madhya Pradesh is a must-visit. Believed to be the inspiration behind The Jungle Book, it is a haven for those seeking some time away from the busy city life.

Words Manjulika Pramod

Pench National Park is one of the premier tiger reserves of India. Here, a tiger gives visitors the sighting of a lifetime.

57

2

06 18

1

W

ilderness inspires and intrigues mankind in many ways. The experience of seeing flora and fauna in their natural habitat provides a much-required relief from the hectic city life. It also opens up the horizon for adventure.

If you love being outdoors, witnessing the beauty of nature and spending time in the wilderness, Pench National Park is just the place for you. Spread over Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra in Central India (veering a bit towards the

west), Pench has a mosaic of lush vegetation. It is home to picturesque teak forests, verdant greenery, trees and plants of ethnobotanical (a study of a region's plants and their practical uses) importance along with several varieties of birds and wild animals. Marked as a national park in 1983 and a tiger reserve in 1992, Pench borrows its name from the Pench river, the largest tributary of the 275-km-long Kanhan river that flows through Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra. The river nourishes the national park all year long.

1. A Northern plains gray langur playing with her infant in Pench.

2. The agile tigresses in the wild, Collarwali Baghin, with her cub.

58

Follow us on

Things to Know

Nagpur and Indore are the closest airports to Pench. AirAsia India connects to both cities from various destinations.

Pench was included under the umbrella of ‘Project Tiger’ as the 19th Project Tiger Reserve.

Summers are hot in Central India but it is the best time for sighting wild animals – the heat drives the animals out of the dense foliage to the nearest watering holes; sometimes, the tigers stay near the water for hours, only heading back into the forest after sundown.

The glories of Pench find mention in Ain in Akbari, the constitution of Akbar.

06 18

59

06 18 1

Adventure Begins A safari into the jungle is a great way to observe the many indigenous species of Pench in their natural habitat. With nine entry gates meant for tourists, three in Madhya Pradesh and six in Maharashtra, Pench welcomes wildlife enthusiasts with open arms.

On the Madhya Pradesh side, there are entrances from the villages of Turiya, Karmajhiri and Jhamtara; in Maharashtra, the gates are in the villages of Kolitmaara, Khubada (Saleghat), Surewani (Nagalwadi), Silari, Chorbahuli and Khursapur.

As you make your way through the enchanting forest, keep your ears trained to hear calls of distress from the monkeys and deer - a predator could be close by.

Replete with trees, shrubs, climbers and open grassy patches, Pench doesn’t shy away from giving

60

"The sight of various animals roaming amid the trees and bushes, makes for a true jungle experience."

2

1. The jackals of Pench have made quite a name for themselves for being unusually bold and tourist friendly. 2. A gypsy is the only means of transport available for safaris in Pench. 3. Visitors frequently get to see the spotted deer that come down in search of drinking water.

you sights of big cats and a variety of birds. The most sought-after animals in the park are tigers, dholes (Indian wild dog), wolves, striped hyenas, sloth bears, jackals and jungle cats.

The forest is also a good breeding ground for cheetal, sambar, wild boar and gaur. The Bengal Tiger dominates this landscape, and in

Follow us on

the last five years, the growing tiger population has put Pench on the international wildlife map too.

The Queen of Pench In the heart of this 411-sq-km 'Mowgli-land', as Pench is fondly called, there is a striped queen who rules over all.

The agile tigress, ‘T15’ is the first in Pench to have a collar attached to her neck. Also known as Collarwali Baghin, T15 is the number of her radio collar aimed to study her behaviour. With 26 cubs through seven litters over nine years, she is everyone’s favourite big cat.

Unlike her sister Baaginala, she is a photographer’s delight. She isn’t camera-shy; in fact, she loves human attention.

Arty Encounters Apart from the safaris, a trip to Pench is incomplete without visiting the outskirts. The villages of Kohka and Turiya are situated within a radius of 6kms from the national park and offer intriguing activities to indulge in. Offering panoramic views of flatlands as well as the forest, the Kohka Lake village is famous for pottery. Once there, you will find the roads lined with clay cups, pots, piggy banks, etc. Try your hand at the wheel and create your very own pot to take back as a souvenir.

06 18

3

Visit the village of Turiya, famous for its exquisite tribal art. Locals will welcome you and, if you’re interested, even offer lessons on art forms like warli and gond (paintings depicting the way of life of Warli and Gond tribes respectively).

The sight of various animals roaming amid the trees and bushes, makes for a true jungle experience.

For those adventure junkies looking for a reason to venture into the wild and explore the wonders of nature as closely as possible, Pench National Park is a perfect getaway.

Getting There AirAsia flies to both Indore and Nagpur from various destinations. airasia.com

61

Wanderlust / Lenscape

06 18

62

Follow us on

Adventure Trail

Home to mighty mountains, majestic water bodies and thousands of acres of jungles, India offers a plethora of destinations that are perfect for adventure sports. We have hand-picked the best adrenalinefuelled activities from across the country to add a dash of excitement to your vacation.

06 18

Dune Bashing in Rajasthan Jaisalmer in Rajasthan welcomes you to an exhilarating ride across its wide expanse of sand dunes. Commonly known as desert safari, this off-roading adventure helps enthusiasts explore the Thar Desert in a specially designed SUV. Attend the basic training classes offered by the various tour operators in the region and go on to experience the thrill of the desert.

63

Paragliding in Himachal Pradesh Bir Billing in Himachal Pradesh is the best place to go paragliding and to enjoy a bird’s eye view of the mighty Himalayas. Soar past snow-covered mountains, over gurgling rivers, lush valleys and some of the most spectacular landscapes. This spot is quite popular, leading to heavy tourist rush during summer vacations.

64

Follow us on

Trekking in Maharashtra A trek up to the Pratapgarh Fort in Pune, Maharashtra, offers panoramic views of the verdant jungle from the top-most point of the fort. Built by Chhatrapati Shivaji, founder of the Maratha kingdom, Pratapgarh Fort is surrounded by beautiful ponds, chambers and long dark paths. The difficulty level of this trek is medium and trekkers are advised to carry proof of identity, drinking water and torches along with them.

65

River Rafting in Uttarakhand Rafting on the rapids of river Ganga in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, is popular across the globe. This adrenaline-pumping activity takes adventure enthusiasts over various rapids formed by the fast-flowing river. Various professional rafting tours are offered here at reasonable prices ranging from `500 to `1,100.

06 18

66

Follow us on

67

06 18

Hot Air Ballooning in Karnataka Fascinating architecture, rocky terrain and magnificent ruins characterise Hampi in Karnataka.

Hop onto a colourful balloon early morning or evening to get the best views of the beautiful landscape. Be an early bird to avoid long queues at the spot.

68

Follow us on

Skydiving in Gujarat The lakeside town of Dessa in Gujarat is one of the most sought-after destinations for skydiving in India. Take the leap of a lifetime from an altitude of about 4,000 feet, and enjoy magnificent views of the city below.

Various skydiving camps are organised at regular intervals by the Sports Authority of Gujarat and the Indian Parachuting Federation here.

Image: 365hops.com

06 18

69

Wanderlust / Ross Island

06 18

Ross Island, part of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, is blessed with a beautiful coastline. The shimmering turquoise water, and the surrounding mangrove forest make for a lovely sight.

70

Follow us on

Reclaimed

by Nature

Explore the ruins of ancient settlements and discover the rich history of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands at Ross Island, a serene islet located close to the capital, Port Blair.

Words Saakshi Rajat

06 18

71

06 18

A

s an avid traveller, identifying new and interesting places to visit is essential to my lifestyle. Every place I have gone to had local inhabitants, indigenous architecture, its own language and cuisine. That’s how every place is, isn’t it? Well, no. There exists a place that has no local inhabitant, zero native architecture, no language, and no food - welcome to Ross Island!

72

Located in the Indian archipelago of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Ross Island promises an enriching and fun experience.

Considering the fascination I have for mysterious towns and offbeat experiences, a visit to Ross Island seemed like the perfect choice for a vacation. I usually research extensively about the places I am going to in order to have a fair idea about how the trip will pan out. But for the first time, I decided to skip the research and take things as they

come. And that turned out to be one of the best decisions of my life.

Splendour of Fauna To reach Ross Island, I had to first take a cruise from Kolkata to Port Blair. You can also take a cruise from Chennai.

Once there, I took a short ferry ride from the Aberdeen Jetty to reach the island. This 20-minute ride gave me a glimpse of the coconut trees, separated in sections by dilapidated red-roofed settlements.

These settlements were once the

Follow us on

1

06 18

Image: Saakshi Rajat

2

"A 20-minute ferry ride from the Aberdeen Jetty gave me a glimpse of the coconut trees, separated in sections by dilapidated red-roofed settlements."

1. Saakshi admiring the picturesque natural formations of ruins engulfed by roots on Ross Island.

2. A fellow tourist feeding acorns to the deer at Ross Island.

residences of British officers. I was looking forward to meeting the locals, trying the food and just soaking up island life. With that happy tune in my heart, I stepped off my ferry and looked around. My imagination of ‘what would be’ was completely overtaken by ‘what is’.

Ross Island is home to many wild animals who can roam free - given the lack of civilisation here - as the rightful owners in their natural habitat. I was welcomed to the island by a beautiful deer that, surprisingly, did not shy away from the camera.

A little further, I came across a herd of deer, a pride of peacocks and a colony of rabbits among the ruins.

Magnificent Ruins Ross Island was discovered by a British maritime surveyor, Sir Daniel Ross, in the late 19th century. It served as the headquarters of the Indian Penal

Settlement during the British rule.

As the penal colony expanded, it was decided that the first prisoner settlement be built here. The task of clearing the dense forest was assigned to the inmates while the officers stayed on the ships.

Gradually, the island transformed into a colony of high-ranking officers and their families, with plush red-roofed villas, infinity swimming pools, tennis courts, a stunning ballroom, manicured lawns and the best of amenities. The settlement included a Presbyterian church, military barracks, a waterpurification plant and a power station. However, in 1941, the island was hit by an earthquake and the British had to leave. A year later, the Japanese invaded. It still has remains of Japanese bunkers. After World War II, the British reclaimed their stake on the island and only

73

1

06 18

74

Follow us on

Attractions

Cellular Jail Before taking the ferry for Ross Island, visit the famed Cellular Jail in Port Blair. Also known as Kala Pani, this jail has stood strong since the time of the British rule. It is now a memorial for tourists to come and learn about the Indian freedom fighters who were imprisoned here.

Forest Museum Located in Haddo, the Forest Museum is run by the Forest Department of Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

The main attractions here are artefacts made out of timber, including peauma, oak, gurjan, paduak and satin woods.

Marina Park and Aquarium An ideal picnic spot for tourists due to its surroundings, the Marina Park and Aquarium houses various kinds of turtles and sea fish. The toy train here makes it a hotspot for families travelling with children.

06 18

2

evacuated it completely after India got its Independence. Thereafter, the island was left to its fate until it came under the command of the Indian Navy.

Although nature has taken over the island since then, the ruins talk of the magnificent lifestyle the British enjoyed here. The remains of a roofless church, the commissioner's abode, the power plant and the clubhouse serve as reminders of this.

Tides of Time The animals of the island, which were introduced for the sole purpose of hunting, are now the dominant inhabitants.

Considering the heavy tourist movement, these animals have become friendly, some even allowing travellers to pet them!

That’s probably their local language now - the language of acceptance and love. The flora around is their food, the ruins are their abodes and we, the travellers, are their guests.

It’s a nice little self-sustaining natural settlement!

It was soon time to get back home. I returned humbled by the contrast time creates. The charm of Ross Island still lives on in the ruins that are found here. It was, without a doubt, the most gorgeous island I had ever seen.

1. An abandoned colonial building engulfed by the roots of a ficus tree. 2. Tourists enjoying the beautiful vistas of Ross Island replete with palm trees.

Best Time to Visit It is recommended that you visit Ross Island in the late afternoon and see the sound and light show in the evening as well. There are four government ferries operating daily from the water sports complex in Port Blair to Ross Island. They charge `50 per person.

Apart from the government ferries, the cruise vessel White Sapphire also runs between Junlighat Jetty in Port Blair and Ross Island Jetty from 9 am every day. The island is closed on Wednesdays, so plan your trip accordingly.

75

Wanderlust / Cuisine

From France,

with Love Bouillabaisse, ratatouille, duck confit - the list goes on. The Gallic gastronomy trail seen along the East Coast of India is getting more inventive, expansive and enamouring.

Words Maria Joseph

06 18

76

Follow us on

T

ime and again, European culinary trails along the West Coast, particularly in Mumbai and Goa, have been hailed for their fares. But one particular form of cuisine from the continent of Europe enjoys much clout and clamour along the East Coast of India: French cuisine. It is time we set this skewed focus right by according a slightly higher epicurean status to the three cities of the East Coast of India – Kolkata, Puducherry and Chennai. In such a conversation, all roads would inevitably lead to these three cities, because the French cooking here is only getting better. So, for the Francophiles in India, this culinary trail is your ultimate slice of France at home!

Lobster thermidor, a classic French dish, consists of a stuffing of cooked lobster meat and egg yolks.

06 18

Flavours of France Kolkata’s residents are spoilt for choice when it comes to French food, with some extraordinary restaurants cooking up a variety of authentic dishes. If you have a predilection for the same, try the crepe suzette (a dessert) at Afraa Creperie in East Kolkata's Salt Lake, or creme de volaille (cream of chicken soup) at Nosh on AJC Bose Road. While you are in the former capital of pre-Independent India, do give the braised lamb shank at the Oberoi's Threesixtythree0 a try. Its main course ranges from a French rarity in India like the lobster thermidor to the more common, coq au vin (chicken braised with wine, lardons, mushrooms). To round off your meal, choose from

77

06 18

an assortment of richly flavoured classic French desserts like crème brulee (dessert consisting of a rich custard base), religieuse caramelito (a combo of caramelised condensed milk, with choux pastry filled with caramel cream) and bitter chocolate cremeux (pudding) with tropical fruit and raspberry jam. Here you can enjoy all this while looking at West Bengal's proud heritage of company school painting, a hybrid Indo-European style of paintings made by Indian artists during the East India Company rule. Teakwood flooring and unique brass mobile design are other elements that add to the charm of this place.

If you do not want to splurge, head to The Rouge in the Park Circus area. The macarons here are affordable and come in a variety of flavours, like raspberry and coffee.

End your French cuisine circuit in Kolkata at the Paris Cafe in Ballygunge in the south of the city.

From France's favourite gourmet cheese, the fromage, to luscious crepes and savoury waffles, you can have it all here.

1

2

78

"Do not leave without sampling the classic French salad that originated in Nice, the salad nicoise.

It comes with local seared tuna, anchovies, boiled eggs and greens, for that perfect supper that leaves you feeling light and refreshed."

Follow us on

The Culinary Shades of France Every region of France has its own special take on food. The Provence region uses olive oils, tomatoes and herbs in many dishes. In Normandy, the food is influenced by butter, crème fraiche (fresh cream) and apples. The Alps are known for their cheese dishes, including fondue.

The Alsace region has incorporated German dishes into its cuisine, including the popular sauerkraut (chopped pickled cabbage). Goûter or quatre-heure is a popular afternoon snack for kids in the country, and is made up of crepes, croissants (crescent-shaped roll), brioche (yeast bread), cookies or hot chocolate.

06 18 3

An Evening in Paris Move further south of West Bengal, and your next pit stop on the East Coast would be Chennai's Cafe de Paris on Cenotaph Road, serving all kinds of French appetisers and aperitifs in the typical French al fresco setting where you can enjoy your meal in the open air. Try it for its great variety of French bakery offerings, especially the bread and the desserts. For the main course, head straight to Taj Vivanta's Upper Deck, which presents a new dining concept, marrying bistro-style food with a chic casual setting.

Try the luscious duck confit (duck cooked in fat, cooked potatoes, carrot, orange segments), coq au vin or lamb blanquette (lamb, pearl onion, mushrooms, celery hearts, herbed rice).

1. A coq au vin is a classic French stew in which chicken is braised slowly in red wine and a little brandy to yield a supremely rich sauce. 2. Interior of Oberoi's Threesixtythree0 in Kolkata, West Bengal.

3. Croque monsieur, a baked boiled ham and cheese sandwich 4. The salad nicoise served at Storyteller's Bar in Puducherry.

4

Crème de la Crème The restaurants in the tourist town of Puducherry

79

are known for their French flair and have been constantly evolving to put together a gourmet experience.

If you’re one who pays attention to the environs as much as the ingredients, the Promenade Hotel's Blueline restaurant in White Town, Puducherry, is a must visit. The gentle waves serenade you as you relish some of the most delicious dishes. With a charming colonial facade, the restaurant will transport you to a different world. The bouillabaisse here is an ultimate delight. Originally a stew made by fishermen in Marseille, the broth evolved over time but still has the basics - leeks, celery, onion, tomatoes and potatoes, cooked together with fish. It is served with the time-tested rouille, a type of tangy mayonnaise, spread liberally on grilled slices of bread. Fish lovers can also try the sole meuniere. A French classic, here a fillet of sole fish is pan fried in butter and served with lemon and parsley sauce. Also

1. Double baked three cheese souffle.

2. Interior of the Storyteller's Bar in Puducherry.

1

06 18 2

80

try the coq au vin, juicy chunks of chicken marinated in wine, sitting beside a generous helping of potato mash, or the wild mushroom vol au vent, a crisp puff pastry with a robust porcini mushroom filling.

Another landmark in White Town is the Storyteller's Bar. It opened in the summer of 2017.

The food here will make a lasting impression on you and so will the drinks. Do not leave without sampling the classic French salad that originated in Nice, the salad nicoise. It comes with local seared tuna, anchovies, boiled eggs and greens, for that perfect supper that leaves you feeling light and refreshed. What's more is that you can use the bar's in-house typewriter to pen down your tale and leave a piece of yourself behind. A number of stories have been mounted on the bar’s quaint blue walls.

Whether it is fine dining or casual, a la carte or table d'hĂ´te, the East Coast of India caters to the taste buds of every Francophile in this country.

Follow us on

advertorial Placements in Abundance for G.L. Bajaj Students The students at G.L. Bajaj have been one among the top choices of recruiters over the years. Hence, campus placement at G.L. Bajaj has been a big success with around 1,200 plus placement offers for Batch 2018. Till April 2018, the campus hosted around 130 companies and students found recruitment opportunities in sectors ranging from IT to management, from core companies to multinationals and even to e- commerce and startups, including 500 companies.

“Hauling out the latest Industrial practices has been our major focus.

Therefore, since the first batch of students graduated in 2009, we have been witnessing unparalleled placements. Despite having a long time to go for the session-ending, we already have 1,200 plus placement offers for the students and the process has just not stopped with more and more companies coming to the campus for placements,” informs Mr Pankaj Agarwal, Vice-Chairman, G.L. Bajaj Institute. “The 2018 batch

has got more than 1,200 offers from industry moguls, including Capgemini, TCS, IBM, Saint Gobain, Ashok Leyland, NTT Data, Bosch, Infogain, KPIT Technologies, United Health Group, Mindtree Ltd, etc," he further adds.

Commenting upon this incredible success, Mr Pankaj Agarwal says

“We attribute this success to our ability to ensure that our teaching methodology remains industry relevant and provides additional certifications like MTA, PTC, Cloud Computing, Java, Networking, Artificial Intelligence, Big Data, etc, giving an edge to the students over others.

bermudas and footwear that channel the classic vibe of the season.

Slay in Style in Duke's Spring/Summer’18 Collection With the change in season, it is imperative to get the best to spruce up your wardrobe. Inspired by the fashion culture of New Zealand, Duke's latest Spring/Summer'18 collection is worth every buck! New Zealand being one of the most important cities of

international fashion designers, the brand's endeavour is to bring the best of summer fashion from that country to the patrons.

Duke's latest line consists of t-shirts, designer tops, shirts, denims, trousers, lowers, loungewear, capris,

The Inspiration New Zealand's Fashion Week draws attention from different corners of the globe. The style trends followed by the denizens are inspired by the season, and are a fine combination of modernity and classic.

The collection boasts of some very exciting colour combinations, designs in stripes, prints, embroidery, patch work, short lengths, round necks, collars, etc.

So, jump right in and be an integral part of Duke's latest collection.

Sharing his views on the latest launch, Mr Kuntal Raj Jain, Director, Duke Fashions (I) Ltd, says, “Our target audience is today’s youth who is looking for trendy and stylish range that is sync with international designs, fashion and quality. Duke is a valuefor-money brand and our mission is to make available international designs and styles at reasonable prices. It is our endeavour to provide our customers the inspiration they need to look and feel confident."

vanity fare

Fitness Files

Up your work-out game with these fabulous accessories.

Track your Health Equipped with advanced health and fitness features, the Lenovo HX03F Spectra assists in monitoring dynamic heartrate, movement and sleep. This smart fitness band enables health-conscious consumers to track their physical activities. Easily synchronised with your smartphone, these bands notify you on your stats through phone calls, emails and text messages. lenovo.com

Trending

Workouts to watch out for!

Join the 'Band' Wagon These large power bands from Adidas provide a versatile total body workout, targeting every major muscle group in your body. Adaptable to various fitness levels, the bands can be used for strength exercises and also with other equipment such as weights, for optimum results. adidas.co.in

06 18

Pound This cardio exercise is a full body workout. It is done with lightweight sticks called Ripstix.

Groove A workout for those who love to dance, groove involves simple moves timed to peppy music.

Measure your Well-being

Train in Style Work out in this women’s sport-crop hoodie from Superdry. The classic-design crop hoodie features a bungee cord hood, a large Superdry

82

graphic on the front and ribbed cuffs. The striking red colour is sure to up your fashion quotient even while you’re sweating it out!

The Lenovo Body Fat Scale HS11 isn’t your average weighing machine. It is capable of measuring 13 health indicators like BMI (body mass index), body fat/water, muscle mass, basal metabolic rate, etc, and can store a total of 30 user profiles at a time.

superdry.com

lenovo.com

BodyArt Training This functional workout includes dance, yoga and tai chi for body restoration.

Follow us on

S to r i e S t h at m at t e r

Bringing you the best and latest from the worlds of lifestyle, travel, entertainment and news

Brand StorieS

LiSticaLS & e-commerce

Quiz/PoLLS

FaceBook Live

FaShion Photo ShootS

weB SerieS & video SoLutionS

inFLuencer network camPaignS

storycrux.com A digital initiative by Maxposure Media Group (I) Pvt. Ltd.

For advertisement queries, please contact storycrux@maxposuremedia.com

vanity fare

Accessory Central Take your look to the next level with these lifestyle essentials.

Fragrant Notes Tech-in-Time Sport the latest Fossil Q watch – it sits perfectly on the wrists of fashion lovers who like to stay updated with technology. fossil.com

06 18

Smart Satchel If you’re looking for the perfect travel bag, Belkin has just the product for you! The Belkin Classic Pro backpack offers dedicated protection for your laptop and tablet, adjustable mesh-padded shoulder straps and an accordion-style opening for easy access. belkin.com/in

Denim for Days!

Summer is here and with it, the perfect pair of jeans to beat the heat!

Wrangler, the original denim brand, launches its new InfiCool range. This collection is developed in collaboration with RElan and is powered with Kooltex technology that keeps the wearer cool, dry and comfortable when the weather gets hot. wrangler.com

84

The latest Gold Edition perfume line by Big Boy Toyz is symbolic of raw power, dynamism and energy, well contrasted by a cool attitude. The heart of the perfume consists of spices and aromatic nuances. It offers fresh bergamot, cool cucumber and mint notes with fragrances of cedar, sweet tonka and musk. bigboytoyz.com

Formal Affair Elitify, a luxury lifestyle brand, which offers classic style in a range of premium products, recently launched its sophisticated Metalloid Brogue oxford shoes.

Available in rich palettes of burgundy and tan brown, these shoes are sure to give you a sophisticated look. elitify.com

Follow us on

advertorial Money Lessons for Kids This summer most of you would have planned vacations with your children. I know a few who get more stressed during summer breaks than school days. The worry is finding ways to keep the kids busy after a short exotic holiday. Kids are enrolled in various classes so that they get busy and acquire a skill, whether it is chess, painting, music or any other hobby.

In earlier days, we went to our grandparents and looked forward to playing with cousins. Life was simpler and small events excited us.

Unfortunately, most of those kinds of plans have lost relevance now.

Today’s children take comforts for granted. The values of living a “prudent” life and “saving for a rainy day” have somehow got lost in the bargain.

Children today have stresses of their own. When they see their classmate spend on the newest model of the cell phone, it becomes almost imperative to own one too. This phenomenon is called ‘keeping up with the Joneses.’ They say that the best way to teach is 'walk the talk'. They would react the same way as their parents.

If, as parents we display restraint, our children will follow suit. So it is even more relevant that we teach our children the value of money. “Now means now’’ syndrome will Shyamali Basu, Senior ebb if they follow their parent’s footsteps. If Vice President & Head - Products, HDFC Asset parents are consistent in their approach, the Management Co. Ltd. children will never get confused.

There are a few easy ways of introducing the concepts of savings and investments: Managing one’s personal money is an important part of our lives and no school syllabus today includes it. It is up to the parents to inculcate the

Concept

Age at which to teach

How to?

Gift your kid a piggy bank

3 – 5 years

Putting money in a piggy bank introduces the concept of money and its value.

Fix a pocket money

6 – 8 years

Set aside an amount at the start for the piggy bank. This is the easiest way to teach concepts like budgeting, saving and prioritisation.

Start a bank account

9 years onwards

The child will be happy to have a bank account. All the cash gifts the child receives could be saved in the bank.

11 years

A rupee today is not worth a rupee tomorrow. Encourage your child to have a discussion with his / her grandparents to find what one could buy with one rupee, say, 50 years ago.

Concepts like Inflation and compounding

habit of savings at a young age and help their kids grow up to be more responsible adults.

"The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author alone and not of HDFC AMC, and should not be regarded as investment advice."

Music Done Right With Zebronics Latest Launch Ever wanted a 2.0 speaker to function like two individual wireless portable speaker and still be able to pair it together and make it work in a 2.0 speaker setting for that epic movie binge? Well, that’s now possible with the latest 2.0 speaker ‘Jive’ that comes with truly wireless technology that can do it all.

Zebronics, India’s leading supplier of IT peripherals, sound systems, mobile/lifestyle accessories, and surveillance products announces a new addition to its wide range of sound systems, with its latest 2.0 wireless bookshelf speaker ‘Jive’ which comes with a left and right wireless connection. Both speaker comes with built in batteries, so you are completely wirefree and can take your music and movies anywhere you want to!

Jive 2.0 speaker has wireless connection between left and right speakers, making it easy for the user to either use it in its paired mode like in a 2.0 speaker or in an individual setting as two separate portable speakers. It has an output of 5W+5W RMS, meaning really loud sound along with a super bass to give you that extra thump factor, while listening to music or watching movies. It also comes with an AUX cable, which is very handy when you need to connect it to your computer, TV, gaming console, etc.

This bookshelf speaker comes with an ergonomic design which saves space and brings functionality with style and sophistication. It has a nice elegant black matte finish and has volume control buttons along with a play button on the back. The speakers can play in the individual setting or paired setting by pressing the play button on the speaker for two seconds in connected mode. When paired together, one source can be used to play audio and yet the speakers can be kept apart. In individual mode, you can use both speakers as separate wireless speakers. It comes with a playback time of eight hours, so you can enjoy your music at a stretch.

Speaking on the launch, Mr Pradeep Doshi, Director, Zebronics India, says, “We’ve reached a milestone in the wireless market with our latest 2.0 wireless speaker, which also has the ability to transform itself into two individual portable speakers, flawlessly blending the form and functionality into an ergonomic design, making it convenient too.”

The overall aspects along with its lightweight feature also makes it a good portable speaker apart from that it easily connects to your device and lets you enjoy uninterrupted music.

Available in black, this product is available in all leading retail stores across India.

cabin comfort

Joy of Flying Whether on a short- or long-haul journey, flying can be a pleasant experience if you are well-prepared.

Here are some simple steps to ensure you have a safe, smooth and comfortable journey.

Onboard Care

Inflight Exercises

Troy Bantleman, personal trainer to celebrity athletes and AirAsia big boss Tony Fernandes shows you how to perform easy exercises for a comfortable flight.

Aircraft cabins are generally very dry and dehydration can occur easily. To overcome this:

Drink lots of water but ensure the intake is slow and regular. Drinking too much water suddenly will cause the body to expel the water quickly too, forcing you to visit the toilet frequently.

06 18

Tricep Stretch

Lower Back Stretch

Side Neck Stretch

Extend one hand down the centre of your back, while grasping your elbow with the other. Exhale slowly while pulling gently downward on your elbow, with your fingers aligned with your spine.

While seated, lift a knee up toward your chest and hold the position for 30 seconds. Gently lower the knee and perform three 30sec sets, alternating between both knees.

Gently tilt your head till you feel the stretch in your neck.

Hold the position for 30 seconds and release slowly.

Change sides and repeat until you have done three 30sec sets on both sides.

Prevent DVT Deep Vein Thrombosis can occur when a blood clot forms in the large veins of the legs or arms, blocking blood circulation. Inactivity during long flights may lead to the occurrence of DVT. If you are flying long distance, ensure you perform inflight exercises such as those listed above as a precaution against developing DVT. When possible and permissible, stretch your legs and walk along the aisle. Be aware of symptoms such as pain or swelling in the legs, which can happen even after you disembark. Seek medical attention if these occur.

86

Beat the Lag

Lubricate your eyes with eye drops, as eyes are aggravated by dry atmosphere. Also, ditch the contact lenses and opt for spectacles during the flight.

Hydrate your skin by applying moisturiser or spraying a body spritzer on exposed body parts.

Avoid tea, coffee and alcohol, or keep intake to a minimum.

Ear Comfort

To counter the effects of jetlag, get as much sleep as possible when flying west to east. When flying in the reverse direction, try to stay awake as much as you can. AirAsia’s chic Snug-as-a-bug hoodie keeps you cosy with its neck pillow attached to a soft hooded collar, and is easily deflated for storage upon landing. Enjoy savings when you pre-book this item at bigdutyfree.com

Changes in air pressure or altitude cause our ears to ‘pop’ and sometimes ache during take-offs and landings. For a comfortable flying experience, suck on sweets or, mimic the act of chewing and swallowing if you do not have any sweets with you. This will relieve the discomfort and help stabilise the pressure in the ear canals. Pacifiers will work just as well for toddlers. If you have a cold, use a nasal decongestant to clear your nasal passage and alleviate the ache.

Follow us on

in touch

Sales Offices & Stations India

Jaya, Kecamatan Neglasari, Kota Tangerang, Propinsi Banten 15127

Kolkata

LOMBOK

A/2D, Dr. Md. Ishaque Chowringhee Mansions First Floor – Block-E Kolkata 700 016 Tele: +913346004800

new delhi D-85, First Floor 100 Ft. Road Chatterpur Enclave New Delhi 110 074 Tele: +911126303939

Indonesia BALI Ngurah Rai Int. Airport Int. / Domestic Departure Terminal, Jln. Raya Denpasar 80361 Sun Boutique Hotel, Jln.Sunset Road No.23, Kuta

JAKARTA

JLobby Departure Area, Lombok Int. Airport ( LOP ) Praya, Nusa Tenggara Barat

MEDAN Arrival Terminal, Kualanamu Int. Airport, Deli Serdang, Sumatera Utara Garuda Plaza Hotel Lobby Level, Jln. Sisingamanga Raja No.18, Medan, Sumatera Utara 20213 Jln. Asia No 548P Medan

SURABAYA Lobby Int. Terminal, Juanda Int. Airport, Jln. Raya Juanda, Surabaya, Jawa Timur Plaza East UG Flr. unit 48 Tunjungan Plaza 1 PTC Supermall, LG Floor A601A6-50, Jl. Puncak Indah Lontar 2

Jln. Bandara Soekarna Hatta, Cengkareng, Jakarta 19110 Terminal 3 Soekarno Hatta Airport

Lamongan, Jl. Raya Golokan, No.123, Lamongan-Gresik

Jln. Boulevard Raya, Blok LA 4, No. 10 Kelapa Gading, 14200 Jakarta Utara

Adisutjipto Int.Airport, Yogyakarta 55282, Jl. Solo KM 9, Jawa Tengah

Komplek Rukan Darmawangsa Jln. Darmawangsa VI, No. 43, Jakarta Selatan 12160 Sarinah Plaza Jln. M.H Thamrim No. 11 LG Jakarta Pusat Jln. Marsekal, Suryadharma (M1) No. 1, Kelurahan Selapajang

YOGAKARTA

Jln. HOS Cokroaminoto No. 119 C, Kelurahan Tegal Rejo, KecamatanTegal Rejo

Sepang, Selangor Jln. KLIA S3, Southern Support Zone, KLIA, 64000 Sepang, Selangor G027B, G Flr., Podium Block Plaza Berjaya, No.12, Jln. Imbi, 55100 Lot 4, Level 2, Stesen Sentral, 50470 Lot No. K16 (New Wing) Utility Level, Stesen Monorail, PT 88, Seksyen 67, Jln. Sultan Ismail, 55100

JOHOR Lot 57, Aeromall Airport, Senai Int. Airport, 81250 Senai No.26 Jl. Bakri, 84000 Muar

SABAH Level 2 (Domestic Departure Hall Entrance), Terminal 1 , Kota Kinabalu Int. Airport, Jln. Petagas Kota Kinabalu, 88100 Kota Kinabalu Lot G24, G Flr., Wisma Sabah, Jln. Tun Razak, 88000 Kota Kinabalu FL 4, 1st Flr., Tawau Airport Building, Jln. Apas-Balun, 91100 Tawau TB228, Lot 5 G Flr., Istana Monaco Hotel, Jln. Bunga, Fajar Complex, 91000 Tawau

Malaysia

Lot G-2, Ground Flr., Plaza USIA Building, Jln. Teratai, MDLD 7084,

KUALA LUMPUR

91100 Lahad Datu

Unit 30, Level 2 KLIA 2, Kuala Lumpur Int. Airport 2, 64000

Level, Lot 2, Sandakan Airport, 90000 Sandakan

Call Centre Numbers India

PENANG Lot 8, Departure Concourse, Penang Int. Airport, 11900 Bayan Lepas No.12H-G, Jln. Tun Dr Awang, 11900 Bayan Lepas

Tesco Lotus - Lad Prao, 2nd Flr, 1190, Phahonyothin Road, Jompol, Jatujak, 10900 127 Tanow Road, Bovornivet, Phra Nakorn, 10200

332, G Flr. Kim Mansion, Lebuh Chulia, 10200

Tesco Lotus - Rama1, 3rd Flr., 831 Rama 1 Road, Wangmai, Pathumwan, Bangkok,10330

A-G-7, Jln. Todak 4, Sunway Business Park, Pusat Bandar Seberang Jaya, 13700 Perai

Tesco Lotus - Sukhumvit 50, 1st Flr., 1710, Sukhumvit Road, Klong Toey, 10110.

Call Centre Local

SELANGOR

CHIANG MAI

Malaysia

G2, Terminal SkyPark, Lapangan Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah, 47200 Subang

Chiang Mai Int. Airport, Room No. 60, 1st Flr., Tambon Suthep, Muang Dist., 50200

Lot No.G-35, Mydin Hypermarket, Persiaran Subang Permai, USJ 1, 47500 Subang Jaya

416, Thaphae Road

1860 500 8000 Indonesia 08 04 1 333 333 Call Centre National

+62 21 2927 0999

600 85 8888 AirAsia X Premium Line chargeable at RM1.95 per minute

Thailand +66 2 515 9999

Lot S141, 2nd Flr., Plaza Metro Kajang Section 7, Jln. Tun Abdul Aziz, 43000 Kajang LG-09, Shaw Centrepoint, Jln. Raja Hassan, 41400

CHIANG RAI Chiang Rai Int. Airport, Room No. 2305/2 404, Moo 10, Robwiang Sub Dist., Muang Dist., 57100

KRABI

Thailand

Krabi Int. Airport, Room No. 133, Moo 5, Petchakasem Rd., Nuaklong Sub Dist., Nuaklong Dist., 81130

BANGKOK

PHUKET

Suvarnabhumi Int. Airport, 6th Flr., Room No.TW6-037, No. 999, Moo 1, Bangplee, Samutprakarn 10540

Tesco Lotus - Phuket, 2nd Flr., 104, Chalermprakiat Road,

Don Mueang Int. Airport, Room No. 3307, 3rd Flr., Terminal 1.

222 Vibhavadi Rangsit Rd., Airport Sub Dist., Don Mueang Dist., 10210 Tesco Lotus - 2nd Flr., 3109 Ladpro Road, Bangkapi, 10240

Rasada Sub Dist., Muang Dist., 83000

PATTAYA Tesco Lotus South Pattaya, 2 Flr. 408/2 Moo 12, South Pattaya, Sukhumvit Rd., Nongprue, Banglamung, Chonburi 20150

06 18

Route maps

NEW DELHI Kathmandu

Jaipur

Dhaka KOLKATA

Jeddah

Bhubaneswar Visakhapatnam

Hyderabad

Chennai

BENGALURU Tiruchirappalli Kochi Colombo Malé

06 18

INDIAN OCEAN

AirAsia International Destinations

Fly to over 130 destinations across Asia and Asia-Pacific with Skytrax World’s Best Low-Cost Airline, 2009-2017.

AirAsia Hubs

88

Follow us on

CH

Maps not to scale and are just a graphic representation.

Maps do not reflect the opinion of the publisher with regards to the legal or geographical status of any country/territory depicted. Maps as at May 31, 2018.

Sapporo

Beijing

Beijing Seoul

Xi’an

Chengdu Chengdu Chongqing Chongqing

Seoul

Busan

Xi’an

Jeju

Wuhan

Sapporo

Jeju

Busan Osaka

Osaka

Tokyo (Narita/Haneda) Tokyo (Narita/Haneda)

Shanghai Shanghai Wuhan Hangzhou Hangzhou

Nanchang Nanchang Changsha Changsha Kunming Mandalay

ar

Mandalay Luang Prabang

Guilin

Taipei

Taipei

Guangzhou Guangzhou Shantou Shantou Nanning Kaohsiung Kaohsiung Shenzhen Shenzhen Macao Hong Macao Kong Hong Kong Hanoi

Nanning Luang Hanoi Prabang

HIANG MAICHIANG MAI Vientiane Yangon

Guilin

Kunming

Vientiane

Yangon

Da Nang

Da Nang

Clark Clark MANILA MANILA BANGKOK BANGKOKSiem Reap Siem Reap PATTAYA PATTAYA Nha Trang Nha Trang Phnom Penh Phnom Penh Ho Chi Minh City Ho Chi Minh City CEBU CEBU SihanoukvilleSihanoukville KRABI KRABI PHUKET PHUKET HAT YAI HAT YAI LANGKAWI LANGKAWI Kota Bharu Kota Bharu KOTA KINABALU KOTA KINABALU Kuala Terengganu Banda Aceh Banda Aceh Kuala Terengganu Bandar Seri Begawan Bandar Seri Begawan PENANG PENANG Miri Miri MEDAN MEDANKUALA LUMPUR Bintulu KUALA LUMPUR Bintulu JOHOR BAHRU JOHOR BAHRU Singapore Pekanbaru Pekanbaru Padang

Honolulu

Honolulu

PACIFICPACIFIC OCEANOCEAN 06 18

KUCHING KUCHING Singapore Pontianak Pontianak

Padang Palembang Palembang Makassar Makassar JAKARTA JAKARTA Semarang Semarang Bandung Bandung SURABAYA SURABAYA Yogyakarta Yogyakarta Solo SoloLombok Lombok BALI BALI

Gold Coast Gold Coast Perth

Perth

Sydney

Sydney Auckland

Auckland

Melbourne Melbourne

SOUTHERN SOUTHERN OCEANOCEAN

89

Route maps Sapporo

NAGOYA

Srinagar

Chandigarh NEW DELHI Jaipur

Bagdogra

Guwahati Imphal

Ranchi

Indore

KOLKATA

Nagpur

Surat

Bhubaneswar Pune

Visakhapatnam

Hyderabad

Goa BENGALURU

Chennai

Chiang Rai

Nan Udon Thani Loei Nakhon Phanom Phitsanulok Sakhon Nakhon Khon Kaen Roi Et Ubon Ratchathani Buriram BANGKOK PATTAYA

CHIANG MAI

Chumphon Ranong Surat Thani KRABI Nakhon Si Thammarat PHUKET HAT YAI Trang Alor Setar Kota Bharu LANGKAWI PENANG Narathiwat Kuala Terengganu MEDAN KUALA LUMPUR

Kochi

06 18

JOHOR BAHRU

CLARK

MANILA

Caticlan KALIBO Tacloban Iloilo CEBU Puerto Princesa Tagbilaran Davao

KOTA KINABALU

Sandakan

Labuan Miri Tawau Bintulu Sibu

PACIFIC OCEAN

KUCHING

INDIAN OCEAN Palembang

AirAsia Domestic Destinations

JAKARTA Solo Bandung Yogyakarta

SURABAYA BALI

Fly to over 130 destinations across Asia and Asia-Pacific with Skytrax World’s Best Low-Cost Airline, 2009-2017.

AirAsia Hubs

90

Follow us on

Destinations India

India

India

India

India

Bagdogra

Bengaluru

Bhubaneswar

Chandigarh

Chennai

Airport Bagdogra Airport Currency INR (Indian Rupee) Dialing Code +91 3556 Languages Bengali, English, Hindi, Nepali and Bhutanese Distance to City 12km Points of Interest Surya Sen Park, Coronation Bridge, Science City Transport

Airport Kempegowda International Airport Currency INR (Indian Rupee) Dialing Code +91 80 Languages Kannada, English, Tamil, Telugu and Hindi Distance to City 35km Points of Interest Lal Bagh, UB City, Bangalore Palace, Cubbon Park Transport

Airport Biju Patnaik International Airport Currency INR (Indian Rupee) Dialing Code +91 674 Languages Oriya, Bengali, English and Hindi Distance to City 3km Points of Interest Lingaraj Temple, Rajarani Temple, Mukteswar Mandir, Udayagiri & Khandagiri Caves Transport

Airport Chandigarh International Airport Currency INR (Indian Rupee) Dialing Code +91 172 Languages Punjabi, English, Hindi Distance to City 10km Points of Interest Rock Garden, Government Museum and Art Gallery, International Dolls Museum Transport

Airport Chennai International Airport Currency INR (Indian Rupee) Dialing Code +91 44 Languages Tamil, Telugu, English, Malayalam Distance to City 20km Points of Interest Marina Beach, Kapaleeswarar Temple, Arignar Anna Zoological Park, Covelong Transport

Bus

Taxi

Bus

Metro

Taxi

Bus

Taxi

Bus

Taxi

Bus

Train

06 18 India

India

India

India

india

Goa

Guwahati

Hyderabad

Imphal

Indore

Airport Goa International Airport/Dabolim Currency INR (Indian Rupee) Dialing Code +91 832 Languages Konkani, English, Hindi, Portuguese, Marathi Distance to City 42km Points of Interest Fort Aguada, Chapora Fort, Mangeshi Temple, Dudhsagar Falls, Museum of Goa Transport

Airport Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport Currency INR (Indian Rupee) Dialing Code +91 361 Languages Assamese, Bengali, English, Hindi Distance to City 22km Points of Interest Nehru Park, Umananda Temple, Kamakhya Temple, Basistha Temple Transport

Airport Rajiv Gandhi International Airport Currency INR (Indian Rupee) Dialing Code +91 40 Languages Telugu, English, Hindi Distance to City 28km Points of Interest Charminar, Chowmahalla Palace, Salar Jung Museum, Laad Bazaar Transport

Airport Imphal International Airport Currency INR (Indian Rupee) Dialing Code +91 385 Languages Manipuri, English, Hindi Distance to City 8km Points of Interest Manipur State Museum, Matai Garden, Shri Govindjee Temple, Manipur Zoological Garden Transport

Airport Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport Currency INR (Indian Rupee) Dialing Code 0731 Languages Hindi, English, Bundeli, Malawi and Chhattisgarhi Distance to City 7km Points of Interest Rajwada, Lal Baag Palace, Indore Museum, Annapurna Temple Transport

Taxi

92

Bus

Taxi

Bus

Taxi

Bus

Taxi

Taxi

Bus

Bus

Follow us on

All information correct at press time. Some information contained here are approximates only. DIY research is highly recommended.

Taxi

world’s leading content marketing company

We offer 360o services across multiple distribution platforms

02.

01.

content creation & distribution

content strategy maxposuremedia.com USA

I

Singapore

03.

04.

content monetization

results & analysis

| info@maxposuremedia.com I

Bangladesh

I

India

I

UAE

I

Bahrain

Destinations India

India

India

India

India

Jaipur

Kochi

Kolkata

Nagpur

New Delhi

Airport Jaipur International Airport Currency INR (Indian Rupee) Dialing Code +91 141 Languages Rajasthani, Marwari, Dhundhari, Hindi, English Distance to City 13km Points of Interest Hawa Mahal, Jaipur Zoo, Jaigarh Fort Transport

Airport Cochin International Airport Currency INR (Indian Rupee) Dialing Code +91 484 Languages Malayalam, English, Hindi, Tamil Distance to City 45km Points of Interest Fort Kochi, Thrikkakara Temple, Indian Naval Maritime Museum, Cochin Cultural Centre Transport

Airport Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport Currency INR (Indian Rupee) Dialing Code +91 33 Languages Bengali, English, Hindi Distance to City 15km Points of Interest Victoria Memorial, Dakshineswar Kali Temple, Science City, Kalighat Temple Transport

Airport Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport Currency INR (Indian Rupee) Dialing Code 0712 Languages Marathi, Hindi, English Distance to City 8.9km Points of Interest Bohra Masjid, Ramtek Temple, Maharajbagh Zoo, Japanese Rose Garden Transport

Airport Indira Gandhi International Airport Currency INR (Indian Rupee) Dialing Code:+91 11 Languages Hindi, English, Punjabi, Haryanvi Distance to City 15km Points of Interest Chandni Chowk, Jama Masjid, Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple, India Gate Transport

Taxi

Bus

Taxi

Train

Bus

Taxi

Taxi

Bus

Bus

Taxi

Bus

Metro

06 18 India

India

India

India

India

Pune

Ranchi

Srinagar

Surat

Visakhapatnam

Airport Pune International Airport Currency INR (Indian Rupee) Dialing Code +91 20 Languages Marathi, English, Hindi Distance to City 10km Points of Interest Aga Khan Palace, Osho Ashram, National War Museum Transport

Airport Birsa Munda Airport Currency INR (Indian Rupee) Dialing Code +91 651 Languages Munda, English, Hindi, Bhojpuri Distance to City 5km Points of Interest Sun Temple, Tagore Hill, Birsa Biological Park Transport

Airport Srinagar International Airport Currency INR (Indian Rupee) Dialing Code +91 194 Languages Kashmiri, Hindi, Urdu, English Distance to City 12km Points of Interest Dal Lake, Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden, Nishat Bagh Transport

Airport Surat Airport Currency INR (Indian Rupee) Dialing Code +91 261 Languages Gujarati, English, Hindi Distance to City 13km Points of Interest Dumas Beach, Dutch Garden, Sardar Patel Museum, Science Centre Transport

Airport Visakhapatnam International Airport Currency INR (Indian Rupee) Dialing Code +91 891 Languages Telugu, English, Hindi Distance to City 7km Points of Interest Submarine Museum, Rishikonda Beach, Ramakrishna Mission Beach Transport

Taxi

94

Bus

Taxi

Bus

Taxi

Bus

Taxi

Bus

Taxi

Bus

Follow us on

All information correct at press time. Some information contained here are approximates only. DIY research is highly recommended.

Metro