
You Won't Believe THESE 7 Beautiful Lakes In India Are Real; They Look Like An Art
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From shimmering turquoise waters to mirror-like reflections of snow-capped peaks, India's lakes are nothing short of breathtaking. Beyond just natural water bodies, some lakes appear so flawless and serene that they resemble masterpieces painted by a skilled artist. Whether created by nature or man, these lakes offer an aesthetic charm that captivates every traveller. Pangong Tso, Ladakh – A Symphony of Blue Hues
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This high-altitude lake in Ladakh is world-famous for its changing shades of blue. Stretching across India and China, Pangong Tso sits amidst stark brown mountains, and its crystal-clear waters appear as if painted with different brushstrokes of indigo, teal, and cobalt throughout the day. Its stillness and surreal beauty make it a natural canvas worth witnessing. Chilika Lake, Odisha – A Wetland Wonderland
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Asia's largest brackish water lagoon, Chilika Lake, is a haven for migratory birds and marine life. With scattered islands, floating vegetation, and pink flamingos gracing its shores, it seems like a landscape straight from an artist's sketchpad. The golden hues at sunrise and sunset add even more charm to this biodiverse marvel. Dal Lake, Kashmir – The Mirror of Heaven
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Often dubbed the "Jewel in the Crown of Kashmir," Dal Lake offers a visual treat of snow-covered peaks reflected perfectly in its calm waters. The sight of shikaras (traditional wooden boats), floating gardens, and ornate houseboats creates an image that looks too beautiful to be real — like a Mughal miniature painting brought to life. Loktak Lake, Manipur – Nature's Mosaic
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What sets Loktak Lake apart are its phumdis — floating islands made of vegetation and soil. From above, these circular patches look like giant lily pads scattered across a blue canvas. This artistic layout is not only stunning but also supports a unique ecosystem, including the endangered Sangai deer. Gurudongmar Lake, Sikkim – A Frozen Painting
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Perched at an altitude of over 17,000 feet, Gurudongmar Lake is one of the highest lakes in the world. Surrounded by snow-clad peaks and often partially frozen, its glassy surface reflects the heavens above. The play of light on ice and water makes it look like a still from a fantasy film or a hyper-realistic painting. Umiam Lake, Meghalaya – The Meghalaya Masterpiece
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Formed by a dam, Umiam Lake near Shillong surprises visitors with its sweeping views and emerald green water bordered by pine trees. Mist, clouds, and calm waters combine to create a peaceful, dreamlike scene — as if someone carefully composed it using oil paints on a wide canvas. Tso Moriri, Ladakh – A Lesser-Known Gem
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Often overshadowed by Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri is another Ladakhi lake that looks artistically surreal. Nestled in the Rupshu Valley, this lake offers varying shades of blue and green that contrast vividly against the barren mountains. The rare sight of Himalayan wildlife nearby adds more texture to this already picture-perfect scene.
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These seven lakes go beyond being just tourist spots — they evoke emotion, awe, and appreciation for nature's artistry. Each lake, with its unique form and colors, seems to have been created with aesthetic precision, reminding us that sometimes, the most beautiful designs are those not made by human hands but by the Earth itself.

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India.com
a day ago
- India.com
You Won't Believe It! Northern Lights Spotted In India - Check Where And How You Can Catch This Rare Spectacle
photoDetails english 2939013 Yes, you read that right, the breathtaking Northern Lights have actually been spotted in India! This rare and magical phenomenon, usually reserved for Arctic skies, has surprised even scientists by making a fleeting appearance in THIS place. Find out when, where, and how you can witness this celestial marvel, and why it's so rare. Updated:Jul 30, 2025, 02:39 PM IST The Magic of the Aurora: Now in India? 1 / 13 The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, have always been a bucket list experience for skywatchers across the world. With their mesmerising hues of green, pink, and violet dancing across polar skies, they're usually seen in places like Norway, Iceland, or Canada. But what if we told you that India got a taste of this magical show? When Can You See the Northern Lights in India? 2 / 13 Auroras are caused by solar winds colliding with Earth's magnetic field, resulting in colorful light displays in the upper atmosphere. These events are most likely to occur during intense solar activity, especially during the solar maximum, which happens roughly every 11 years. In India, if you're hoping to catch the aurora, your best bet is between September and April, particularly on cold, clear winter nights. Yes, They've Been Spotted, And Here's Where 3 / 13 While India is typically far from the auroral zones, Ladakh has defied expectations. During severe geomagnetic storms in April 2023 and October 2024, auroras were visibly documented by scientists at the Indian Astronomical Observatory in Hanle, Ladakh. This high-altitude location provided ideal dark-sky conditions, making it the first credible spot for aurora sightings in India. Why Ladakh is India's Unexpected Aurora Capital 4 / 13 Located more than 4,500 meters above sea level, Hanle, Leh, and the Nubra Valley are some of India's most isolated, high-altitude regions, and this remoteness is key. The lack of light pollution combined with elevation creates the perfect storm for any faint celestial activity to become visible, even the elusive aurora. But, Why is It So Rare? 5 / 13 India lies far south of the auroral oval, the magnetic zone around the poles where auroras are most active. This makes sightings in India incredibly rare, only possible during major solar storms that push the lights further south than usual. Without these powerful cosmic events, the chance of seeing Northern Lights in India remains close to zero. How to Maximise Your Chances of Seeing It? 6 / 13 Want to chase the lights? Here's how: 1. Track solar activity: Use tools like NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Center or aurora forecast apps like AuroraWatch UK or My Aurora Forecast. 2. Go remote: Head to dark-sky areas like Hanle or Changthang Plateau, as far from city lights as possible. 3. Time it right: Visit during the solar maximum years (the current one peaks around 2025-2026). 4. Stay up late: Aurora activity tends to peak between 10 PM and 2 AM. Should You Eat That Plane Ticket to Norway? 7 / 13 Honestly? If your heart is set on seeing the Northern Lights, planning a trip to Scandinavia, Alaska, or Canada remains your best bet. But if you're in India and willing to take a chance, and a trek, Ladakh during a solar storm might just surprise you. What If You Miss It? 8 / 13 Don't worry! Even if you don't catch the aurora, Ladakh offers an unforgettable stargazing experience. Its clear skies and high-altitude observatories make it India's astronomy capital, with or without the lights. Is This the Start of More Indian Auroras? 9 / 13 With solar activity on the rise and climate conditions evolving, scientists don't rule out more rare aurora sightings in India in the future. The Hanle Observatory continues to monitor space weather and auroral expansion, giving skywatchers hope. Can You Really See the Northern Lights in India? 10 / 13 Yes, but it depends on your luck. You need a perfect storm of cosmic and atmospheric conditions. But if the stars align (literally), India might just offer you the most unexpected show of your life. Rare sky events in India 11 / 13 The idea of witnessing the Northern Lights in India once sounded impossible. But nature has a way of surprising us. So, keep your eyes on the stars, your apps on alert, and maybe, just maybe, plan your next trip to Ladakh during a solar storm. Who knows what magic might light up your sky? Aurora Borealis Ladakh 12 / 13 (All Pics Credits: Freepik) Northern Lights in India 13 / 13 (This article is intended for your general information only. Zee News does not vouch for its accuracy or reliability.)

Time of India
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Their museum, my sighs
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India.com
4 days ago
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Budget Travel Abroad: 9 Countries Indians Can Explore Under Rs 50,000
photoDetails english 2937619 Dreaming of an international vacation but worried about the budget? Good news—traveling abroad doesn't have to break the bank. With smart planning and off-season deals, there are several beautiful and culturally rich countries Indians can explore for under Rs 50,000, including flights, stay, food, and basic sightseeing. From serene mountains to tropical beaches and ancient ruins, here's a handpicked list of 9 affordable international destinations where your rupee still goes a long way. Updated:Jul 27, 2025, 02:00 PM IST 1. Nepal 1 / 9 For Indian travelers, Nepal feels like home, yet offers an entirely new experience. With no visa requirement and low-cost bus or train options to cross the border, it's one of the easiest and cheapest international trips. The natural beauty of the Himalayas, peaceful monasteries in Kathmandu, and the calm lakes of Pokhara make it a refreshing escape that can easily fit within a Rs 50,000 budget. 2. Vietnam 2 / 9 Vietnam is an underrated gem for budget travelers. With affordable street food, low-cost accommodations, and cheap transportation, exploring cities like Hanoi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh can be surprisingly pocket-friendly. Whether you're cruising through Ha Long Bay or wandering around ancient towns like Hoi An, Vietnam offers rich experiences without draining your savings. 3. Thailand 3 / 9 Thailand continues to be a favorite for Indian tourists, not just for its beaches but also for its affordability. Places like Bangkok, Pattaya, and Phuket offer everything from vibrant street life to spiritual temples and buzzing night markets. Visa on arrival and low-cost flights from India make it easy to plan a short yet fulfilling trip under Rs 50,000. 4. Sri Lanka 4 / 9 Just a short flight away, Sri Lanka feels like a blend of culture, history, and coastline. With destinations like Colombo, Galle, and Kandy, travelers can explore temples, beaches, tea plantations, and wildlife reserves without spending too much. Budget accommodations and cheap local food help keep your travel expenses well within a modest budget. 5. Indonesia (Bali) 5 / 9 Bali may sound exotic, but it can be surprisingly affordable for Indian travelers. Flights can be found at decent prices if booked in advance, and once there, the cost of living is low. From scenic rice fields and waterfalls to ancient temples and sunny beaches, Bali offers a perfect mix of nature and spirituality without overspending. 6. Cambodia 6 / 9 Cambodia, known for the majestic Angkor Wat, is one of Southeast Asia's most budget-friendly destinations. Hostel stays, tuk-tuk rides, and meals are very cheap, and entry fees to historical sites are reasonable. A week-long trip to Phnom Penh and Siem Reap can easily be managed under ?50,000, especially for backpackers or solo travelers. 7. Laos 7 / 9 If you're looking for peace, mountains, and a slower pace of life, Laos is an ideal option. Though often overlooked, this country offers tranquil towns like Luang Prabang and adventure activities in Vang Vieng. With visa on arrival and very low day-to-day costs, it's a fantastic destination for Indian travelers seeking something different without spending a fortune. 8. Bhutan 8 / 9 Bhutan, known as the Land of the Thunder Dragon, is perfect for a serene, spiritual, and scenic getaway. Indian citizens don't need a visa, and entry is relatively simple and affordable. With majestic monasteries, clean cities like Thimphu and Paro, and a focus on Gross National Happiness, Bhutan is a soulful escape that fits comfortably within a modest travel budget. 9. Armenia 9 / 9 Armenia is a lesser-known yet breathtaking destination where your rupee goes a long way. Surrounded by mountains and filled with centuries-old monasteries, the country is visually stunning and surprisingly cheap. Flights can be affordable during deals, and the cost of stay and food is low, making it a unique and budget-friendly European-style escape.