Many claim there are more gods than people in the Kathmandu Valley. It feels that way. Spiritually pungent, deliciously rich in culture and tradition. Flower petals, vermilion powder and rice are offered on brass trays daily at these sacred spots. The contrast with frenetic India is dramatic. Chill, more peaceful. An absence of car horns. The Himalayas loom, menacing with tectonic threat but grand and gorgeous. Nepal is the country of …
I loved watching Indian women draped in brightly colored, embellished silks managing to accomplish, to me, awkward side-saddle motor bike rides, managing unruly kids, raking basmati, worshipping at the temple all the while composed and lovely in their saris. In Indian culture, the sari symbolizes respect, dignity, modesty and confidence. The word “sari” means “strip of cloth” in Sanskrit. But for the Indian women—and a few men—who have been wrapping …
Even their names are exotic and offer no clue as to ingredients or taste so the traveler has to proceed with caution. Pakora, Vada Pav, Aloo Gobi, Dal Tadka, Chana Masala, Vindaloo…all the dishes and spices vary dramatically based on regional preferences, flavors and culinary traditions. I sampled each of these dishes and loved the smokey, exotic blend of flavors! Indian cuisine reflects an 8,000-year history of various groups and cultures. Traditional …
The perfect way to spend a hot, October afternoon in Jaipur: a high budget production complete with gorgeous Indian superstars, a passionate love story, epic choreography, action, violence and popcorn. All showcased in the world-famous Raj Mandir Cinema. Situated on the Bhagwan Das Road, the meringue-shaped auditorium opened in 1976, and has become a popular symbol of Jaipur. The theatre is equipped with the latest technology in sound and projection …
Agra, India. Two wonders referred to as “Taj” exist today, the third remains the unfulfilled dream of a visionary Shah in mourning. All define the essence of India. The first of these architectural marvels is actually titled Itimad-Ud-Daulah’s Tomb, known lyrically as “the jewel box in marble” and “Baby Taj.” This is the garden tomb of Mirza Guyas Beg, Grand Vizier of the Mughal Court, built in 1622 by his …
Delhi is like no other place on earth. The capital of India and home to 20 million, all of whom crowd the streets, souk-like bazaars, sidewalks and roads day and night. There are no signs, no traffic rules, no order. The chaos is both overwhelming and glorious; a sensual assault. Dive in with a cycle rickshaw ride at noon, the height of the wedding season, just before Diwali (India’s high …