APRIL ADVENTURES
Originally a royal hunting reserve, it's now a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site, rich in wetlands, forests, and grasslands. This is famous for over 370 species, especially migratory birds like the Siberian Crane. Credit : PINTEREST
Page 2
More people are choosing plant-based meals for health, the environment, or just to feel better. They are quick, simple, and tasty. Credit : PINTEREST
Page 3
Labradoodle, a cross between a Labrador and a Poodle, sheds minimally. Their energetic and friendly nature makes them well-suited with active Indian families. Credit : PEXELS
Page 4
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
NDTV
10 hours ago
- NDTV
Auli Travel Guide: The Himalayan Escape You've Been Dreaming About
If your idea of a holiday swings between sipping chai with mountain views and tumbling down a snowy slope with half-grace, Auli might just be your kind of chaos. At 2,800 metres, it's one of Uttarakhand's most offbeat-yet-buzzing winter spots — and honestly, we're surprised more people haven't packed their snow boots yet. While ski enthusiasts already know its charm, there's plenty here even if you'd rather soak in the scenery than slide down it. Think cable cars, pine forests, little-known lakes, and some seriously good food and boutique stays. Best of all? A trip to Auli doesn't feel crowded like its more popular cousins, making it a win for slow travellers. Here's Your Handy Guide To Where To Go, Eat, Shop, And Stay In Auli: Where To Go In Auli: 1. Auli Ropeway This one's a must, whether or not you're into heights. The Auli Ropeway connects Joshimath to Auli and is among the longest cable car rides in Asia. It stretches over 4 km and glides above deodar forests and snow-covered valleys. Pro tip: Head up just before sunset for skies so pink they look filtered. 2. Gorson Bugyal Gorson Bugyal is a sprawling meadow about 3 km from Auli, and it turns into a snowfield straight out of a fantasy flick during winters. In summer, the same space blooms with alpine flowers and wild grass. Either way, it's worth the short hike or horse ride. 3. Chattrakund Hidden away in the middle of a dense forest near Gorson Bugyal, this little lake is crystal clear and intensely peaceful. Locals love to picnic here and while it's just 1 km from Gorson, the walk through the woods feels like a complete detox. 4. Joshimath Joshimath is more than a pit stop on your way to Auli. It's a sacred town with temples, narrow lanes, and stories dating back to Adi Shankaracharya. If you're here during winters, catch the famous Kalpavriksha tree and the ropeway station. 5. Auli Artificial Lake Yes, it's man-made. But it's stunning regardless. Situated next to the Clifftop Club, this lake helps in creating artificial snow for skiing during lean snowfall days. Surrounded by peaks like Nanda Devi, the lake is a scenic pitstop if you're doing a chilled-out walk across the area. 6. Chenab Lake For those willing to go a bit off-road, Chenab Lake is a hidden gem. It's not commercialised (yet), which is exactly why it's perfect. The trek to reach here is not super easy, but it's quiet, scenic and feels like your own private alpine retreat. 7. Nanda Devi National Park If you're serious about wildlife or trekking, this UNESCO World Heritage site is calling. It's one of the most protected biospheres in the country and offers stunning routes with rare flora and fauna. Permits are needed, but the views? Totally worth the paperwork. Where To Stay In Auli: 1. Luxury Hotels Sitting at over 10,000 ft, The Clifftop Club is a ski-in-ski-out property that makes you feel like you're literally on top of the world. The views are ridiculous (in a good way), and the deluxe rooms come with heaters, wooden panelling, and giant windows that frame the mountains like art. Pick Satopanth The Auli Resort for plush interiors, gourmet meals, and a location that lets you roll out of bed and into snow-it's indulgence without being OTT. Their spa is also a big bonus after a day of skiing or hiking. 2. Boutique Resorts Warm hospitality, cosy rooms, and an Instagrammable lounge make The Tattva Boutique Resort a perfect base. Each room has its own vibe, and the food is spot-on. Great for couples or solo travellers wanting a more curated stay. Casa Himalaya sits on the hillside and offers spacious independent cottages and cantilever patios offering mind blowing 180 degree views of Nanda Devi and other notable Himalayan peaks. The ski resort is eco-conscious, solar-powered, and very quiet, which makes it a real treat for nature-lovers and writers chasing their next big idea. 3. Budget Stays There are several budget homestays and lodges in Joshimath and lower Auli offering clean beds, warm food, and local charm. Names like Hotel Mount View and Manik Resort offer basic comforts with genuine Uttarakhandi hospitality and cost a fraction of the resorts. Where To Eat In Auli: 1. Regional Cuisine You haven't been to Auli if you haven't tried Garhwali food. Look out for Kandali saag, chainsoo, bhang ki chutney, Kumaoni raita, Mandua ki roti, and aloo ke Gutke — local dishes with bold spices and earthy flavours. Most restaurants and local diners serve these on request, especially in thalis. 2. Cosy Cafes A first in Auli, The Sky Story Cafe at Casa Himalaya sits at 10,000 feet, offering stunning views of Nanda Devi and the Garhwal ranges. Known for its wooden interiors and glass walls, it serves hot chocolate, momos, and local Garhwali dishes. Ideal for sunset gazing, it's a skier's cosy retreat. The Land Of A Thousand Hills Cafe near Joshimath is a crowd favourite for its rooftop views and wood-fired pizzas, handmade noodles, and fresh pastas in a cosy setting — think Himalayan hygge. 3. Fine-Dining Restaurants While Auli doesn't have fancy restaurants in the traditional sense, the in-house restaurants at Clifftop Club and Satopanth Resort offer curated menus with Indian, Continental, and Chinese fare. Their buffets are generous, and service is solid. Or try Oryza Restaurant where global cuisine paired with warm decor, large French windows, open-to-sky cedar wood patio promise a magical dinner. Where To Shop In Auli: 1. Local Markets Joshimath's main bazaar is the place to dig into local life. You'll find everything from woollen shawls to budget-friendly snow gear. It's lively, packed, and full of stories-you'll likely end up chatting with a local shopkeeper or two. 2. Souvenirs & Handicrafts Keep an eye out for handwoven Pashmina shawls, Kullu caps, and handcrafted candles. Many women-run collectives around the area make organic jams, apricot oils, and herbal teas that make for thoughtful gifts or personal keepsakes. 3. Personalised Picks You can find hand-stitched woollens with initials or patterns unique to the region in Joshimath. There's also a rise in sustainable souvenirs like locally-made soap bars, carved wooden decor, and copper utensils that are both usable and unique. Weather In Auli (Best Time To Visit Auli): Auli is basically two places depending on when you go. December to March is full-on winter mode, with snow, skiing, and temperatures dropping to -8 degrees Celsius. This is peak season for snow lovers. April to June is cool and lush, perfect for trekking and picnics. Monsoon (July to September) can get tricky due to landslides, so best to skip. October and November bring crisp skies and fewer crowds-a solid shoulder season if you want clear views without the rush. How To Reach Auli: By Air The closest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, about 280 km away. From there, you can book a cab or take a shared taxi to Joshimath. It's a scenic 8-9 hour drive, so keep snacks handy. By Rail Rishikesh Railway Station is the nearest major railhead, about 260 km from Auli. From there, it's another road journey to Joshimath. Trains from Delhi and other parts of North India are regular, but book in advance during peak months. By Road Buses and shared jeeps are available from Haridwar, Dehradun, and Rishikesh to Joshimath. From Joshimath, taxis or the ropeway will take you up to Auli. The roads are winding but well-maintained, and the views make the long ride worth it. Getting Around In Auli: You won't need much in the way of transport within Auli itself. Most people walk or take short cab rides between points. The ropeway and chair lift are fun alternatives for covering steep stretches. In winter, snowmobiles and even horses are sometimes used to get around, especially between hotels and slopes. Comfortable walking shoes and layers are a must no matter the season.
Time of India
16 hours ago
- Time of India
Post Pahalgam attack, anti-terror squad deployed for 1st time at Valley of Flowers
1 2 3 4 Dehradun: Uttarakhand Police has deployed a six-member anti-terror squad (ATS) team at Ghangaria, near the Valley of Flowers, to monitor tourist movement towards the alpine valley as well as popular Sikh pilgrimage spot, Hemkund Sahib, situated nearby, marking the first time such a deployment has taken place in this remote region. The decision is being seen as linked to the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22 that left 25 tourists and a local dead. Chamoli SP Sarvesh Panwar, told TOI, "The ATS team has been stationed at Ghangaria, the key point for people going to both Valley of Flowers and Hemkund Sahib. The ATS team has been stationed there since May 24, a day before the Hemkund Sahib yatra began, and will work alongside the State Disaster Response Force to ensure the smooth and safe conduct of the pilgrimage and tourist traffic." According to sources, ATS deployment is part of a wider security strategy across Uttarakhand, which shares its border with China, in response to the Pahalgam incident in Jammu & Kashmir. While officials have not cited any direct threat or intelligence input linked to Chamoli district (where the Valley of Flowers lies, and which shares borders with China), police have increased surveillance across major tourist and religious sites in the Himalayan state as a precaution. Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like American Investor Warren Buffett Recommends: 5 Books For Turning Your Life Around Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo Security arrangements have also been strengthened at the four Char Dham sites — Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath — where senior police officials have been overseeing crowd control, pilgrim safety and traffic flow. Also, police have been monitoring social media and providing support to around 1,700 Kashmiri students in Uttarakhand to maintain public order and prevent misinformation. The Valley of Flowers National Park, a Unesco World Heritage site, reopened to tourists on June 1. Located over 9,000 ft above sea level in Chamoli, the park remains open from June to Oct and is known for its alpine flora. On opening day, 83 visitors visited the valley. Declared a national park in 1982, it is home to over 600 plant species, including Brahma Kamal, the state flower of Uttarakhand, along with Aster, Delphinium, Himalayan Blue Poppy, Ranunculus and Potentilla. Hemkund Sahib, the revered Sikh shrine situated nearby, opened to devotees on May 25 and draws thousands of pilgrims every year.
NDTV
19 hours ago
- NDTV
South Indian Cooking Essentials: A Beginner's Guide To Perfect Rasam, Pachadi And More
South Indian cuisine has a way of drawing you in. The crackle of mustard seeds in hot oil, the earthy aroma of curry leaves sizzling in coconut oil, and the bold heat of Guntur chillies mingling with spices- all come together to create something truly captivating. The cuisine is soulful, vibrant, and full of character. Here, each region brings its own flavours and traditions, weaving together a rich and diverse culinary tapestry. From the tangy sambar of Tamil Nadu to Kerala's robust seafood curries, from Karnataka's pillowy idlis to Andhra's fiery gongura pachadi, every dish tells a story of its own. And no, South Indian cuisine is not just about dosas and idlis. Although they will always have a special place on the plate, there is so much more to explore. Whether you are fascinated by South Indian food culture or simply a curious foodie eager to discover new flavours, this guide will walk you through the essentials of South Indian cooking. Ready to dive in? Let's get going. Also Read: 7 South Indian Tiffin Recipes You Can Make In 15 Minutes Photo Credit: Pexels The Five South Indian States And Their Signature Styles: South Indian cuisine is shaped by geography, climate, culture, and history. Each of the five southern states - Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana - brings its own personality to the plate. Here's what makes each one unique: 1. Tamil Nadu: Bold And Peppery Tamil Nadu's cuisine is all about a balance of spice, tang and depth. Meals are traditionally served on banana leaves, with rice as the key element. Expect peppery rasam, tangy kuzhambu, and the iconic Chettinad spice blends that elevate both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. 2. Kerala: Coconut-Laced And Coastal Kerala's cuisine is a celebration of coconut in every form. With its lush landscapes and coastal bounty, seafood, appams, and coconut-based stews are staples. The flavours are rich, comforting, and deeply aromatic. 3. Karnataka: Mild And Earthy Karnataka's food ranges from the hearty dishes of North Karnataka to the temple-inspired vegetarian fare of Udupi. It is known for being mildly spiced and subtly sweet, with favourites like bisi bele bath, ragi mudde, and Mysore masala dosa. 4. Andhra Pradesh: Fiery And Full of Punch Andhra cuisine is bold and unapologetically spicy, thanks to the generous use of Guntur chillies and tamarind. From gongura pachadi to spicy chicken fry, the flavours are intense and bold. 5. Telangana: Rustic And Robust Telangana's food is rooted in its Deccan heritage and tribal traditions. It is hearty and rustic, with a wide use of millets, pulses, and bold flavours. Hyderabadi biryani, sajja rotis, kodi pulusu, and spicy chutneys are just a few highlights. Also Read: 10 Delicious South Indian Comfort Food Combos You Can Make At Home Photo Credit: Pexels Pantry Must-Haves: Stocking The South Indian Kitchen While each region brings its own flair, certain ingredients are common across South Indian kitchens. Here's your essential starter kit: 1. Spices for the flavour foundation: Mustard seeds: Add a nutty, smoky depth. Cumin and fenugreek: Earthy and slightly bitter, ideal for tempering. Dried red chillies: Bring heat and colour to tadkas and chutneys. Hing (asafoetida): A pinch adds a savoury, umami punch. Turmeric and black Pepper: For warmth, colour, and subtle heat. 2. Lentils for everyday protein: Used in everything from sambar to rasam, lentils are a staple in South Indian cuisine. Some of the most common types of dal used here are: Toor dal Urad dal Chana dal Moong dal 3. Grains for the daily meals: Rice: Ponni, Sona Masoori, and Kerala red rice are commonly used. Millets: Ragi, jowar, and bajra add nutrition and texture. 4. Coconut is the star ingredient: Grated coconut: For chutneys and curries. Coconut milk: Adds richness to stews and desserts. Coconut oil: Especially popular in Kerala and coastal Karnataka. 5. Tamarind adds the tangy twist: Tamarind adds the signature sourness to dishes like sambar, rasam, and puliyodarai. Keep a block or paste handy for quick use. 6. Curry leaves are an aromatic essential: Fresh curry leaves are a must. Tossed into hot oil, they release a fragrance that instantly elevates any dish. Also Read: South Indian Recipes: 5 Fried South Indian Snacks That Are Perfect For Every Season Photo Credit: Pexels Beginner's Guide To South Indian Cooking: 1. Invest In A Good Mixer Grinder: A reliable mixer grinder is essential. It is used for grinding chutneys, spice pastes, and dosa/idli batter. Choose one with multiple jars and variable speed settings. Pro Tip: Clean the jars immediately after use to avoid lingering smells and stains, especially from coconut and spices. 2. Choose Fresh Curry Leaves And Coconut: Fresh curry leaves offer a burst of aroma that dried ones can't match. Likewise, fresh coconut gives chutneys and curries a creamy, authentic taste. 3. Add Tadka Mindfully: Tempering is the soul of South Indian cooking. Heat oil, add mustard seeds, curry leaves, and dals in the right order, and let them sizzle. This step infuses the oil with flavour and sets the tone for the dish. 4. Spice Balance Is Key: South Indian food is all about harmony of spice, sourness, salt, and texture. Taste as you go. A pinch of jaggery can balance excess tang, while a squeeze of lime can brighten a heavy curry. Adjust every ingredient to suit your palate. South Indian cooking is all about celebrating culture, tradition, and everyday comfort. With the right ingredients, a few essential tools, and a little practice, anyone can bring the warmth and richness of this cuisine into their kitchen. So go ahead and let the flavours of the South take over your kitchen. Advertisement About Somdatta Saha Explorer- this is what Somdatta likes to call herself. Be it in terms of food, people or places, all she craves for is to know the unknown. A simple aglio olio pasta or daal-chawal and a good movie can make her day. For the latest food news, health tips and recipes, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter and YouTube. Tags: South Indian Cooking South Indian Cuisine South Indian Food Guide Show full article Comments
