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India.com
3 days ago
- India.com
Scenic Road Trips From Udaipur City That Are Perfect For Weekend Getaways
Rajasthan displays Udaipur as its precious jewel because it functions as the 'City of Lakes.' The city of Udaipur serves as an ideal starting point for visitors to explore different nearby sightseeing destinations because it possesses both magnificent palaces and scenic lakes and beautiful landscapes. The following list features exceptional Udaipur-based road trips offering breathtaking views combined with historic attractions and thrilling outdoor adventures for weekend excursions. 1. Kumbhalgarh: A Journey Through History Distance from Udaipur: ~82 km (Approx. 2 hours) Udaipur residents and tourists recognize Kumbhalgarh Fort as a prominent destination after both the World Heritage Sites label from UNESCO and its recognition as one of the top sites near Udaipur. Built during the 15th century by Rana Kumbha the fort achieves fame due to its extensive 36-kilometre walls that surpass only the Great Wall of China in length. While traveling to Kumbhalgarh by road you will see combinations of forested hills and dry landscapes which produce remarkable sightings. You can explore this historical site by seeing its unique architecture and old temples and admiring distant views of the Aravalli Range. Climb to the Kumbhalgarh fort during nightfall so you can see the historical light and sound presentation. 2. Ranakpur: Marvel at Architectural Grandeur Distance from Udaipur: ~96 km (Approx. 2.5 hours) Individuals who value both architectural achievements and spiritual heritage need to explore the destination of Ranakpur. The Jain Temple complex at Ranakpur presents perfect marble carvings and detailed architectural features which create a momentous visual impact for every visitor. Chaumukha Temple stands out among the numerous attractions because it has 1,444 unique wooden pillars that embrace Lord Adinath's statue. The journey from Udaipur to Ranakpur takes tourists through the tree-covered Aravalli Hills which creates an enjoyable antidote against city life. Spend your day at the temple area to experience the tranquil atmosphere and then finish your visit. 3. Mount Abu: A Hill Station Retreat Distance from Udaipur: ~170 km (Approx. 4 hours) Rajasthan has Mount Abu as its sole hill station located between desert territory in the state. The Aravalli Range hosts Mount Abu which stands out because of its rustic forests and relaxed lakes and temperate climate. The three top attractions in this area comprise Nakki Lake together with Dilwara Temples and Guru Shikhar which stands as the highest elevation within the Aravallis mountain range. During the monsoon season the destination offers scenic landscape views because the road to Mount Abu winds through dense vegetation which reveals waterfalls as part of the journey. Nature enthusiasts and hikers alongside peaceful seekers will find Mount Abu suitable because of its peaceful environment. 4. Chittorgarh: Relive Tales of Valor Distance from Udaipur: ~125 km (Approx. 3 hours) The historic city of Chittorgarh provides an exciting weekend driving opportunity through its valorous heritage. The Chittorgarh Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as a testament to the bravery of Rajput warriors. The vast fort spreads across several palatial accommodations as well as various temples and towers each telling its own account of Rajput heroism. All these attractions reside within Chittorgarh Fort alongside Rani Padmini's Palace and Kirti Stambh, Vijay Stambh (Victory Tower), Traveling from Udaipur to Chittorgarh provides guests with the chance to see the traditional way of life in rural Rajasthan and vibrant community customs. 5. Jodhpur: The Blue City Beckons Distance from Udaipur: ~250 km (Approx. 5 hours) Although it takes slightly more time, Jodhpur proves itself as an outstanding weekday travel destination. The population calls this city the Blue City because all buildings use an azure color palette. On top of a rocky hill stands the majestic Mehrangarh Fort. The main sightseeing opportunities in this destination are Jaswant Thada and Umaid Bhawan Palace together with the active atmosphere of Sadar Market. When traveling between Udaipur and Jodhpur you will experience different geographical features such as desert plains and farmlands reflecting Rajasthan's diverse landscapes. Use strategic planning to optimize your limited visit duration. 6. Eklingji and Nagda: Twin Temples of Spirituality Distance from Udaipur: ~22 km (Approx. 45 minutes) Visit Eklingji and Nagda from Udaipur for an enlightening and brief weekend getaway because these locations require only a forty-five minute drive. Travelers visit Eklingji Temple to pay homage to Lord Shiva because it contains more than 100 sacred shrines. The temple architecture from that time period shines through its beautiful stone carvings as well as its magnificent spires. The Sas-Bahu Temples located in Nagda earn local recognition because of their exceptional architectural beauty in twin architectural structures. Statue lovers can easily reach these religious sites from Udaipur because of their close proximity to the city. 7. Haldi Ghati Provides a Historical and Natural Encounter Distance from Udaipur: ~40 km (Approx. 1 hour) At HaldiGhati, where Maharana Pratap fought against the Mughal forces led by Man Singh I the place unites historical significance with the natural environment. The narrow mountain pass stands near Udaipur while surrounded by beautiful vegetation that provides spectacular scenery. Visitors can visit a commemoration dedicated to Chetak the horse of Maharana Pratap since the animal stood central to the historic battle. The journey to Haldi Ghati provides scenic views because travelers can observe animals and view numerous bird species during the trip. Why Choose These Destinations? The road trips present individual features that differentiate them from each other between historical value along with architectural wonders and natural scenic beauties. Travelers access these route locations without difficulties since roads to these areas operate smoothly. These travel destinations serve various groups of tourists since they provide opportunities to experience adventure alongside cultural and relaxation activities. Machine and supply checks and predicating conditions must be completed before your departure to ensure safe travelling. Letting the Local Ways of Life Guide Your Behaviour at Both Religious Sites and Heritage Places. Conclusion Udaipur functions as the starting point to multiple exciting travel locations suitable for weekend trips. These scenic road trips give travelers unforgettable experiences that will fulfill the needs of history enthusiasts and nature admirers or leisure seekers. Getting your bags ready and driving off to make memories which will stay forever is the perfect plan.
Time Magazine
22-05-2025
- Time Magazine
Top 10 National Parks in the World According to AI
This article is published by a partner of TIME. National parks are some of the most treasured places on Earth, offering breathtaking landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and a chance to connect with the beauty of nature. From majestic mountain ranges to serene deserts, these protected areas preserve the natural beauty and cultural heritage of our planet. They inspire awe, provide recreational opportunities, and serve as sanctuaries for countless species of wildlife. For travelers and adventurers, national parks represent a gateway to the great outdoors. Whether it's hiking through towering forests, gazing at awe-inspiring canyons, or observing wildlife in their natural habitats, these destinations offer unforgettable experiences. Beyond recreation, national parks are also crucial for conservation efforts, ensuring that future generations can enjoy these wonders. This article highlights the top 10 national parks in the world, using research assistance from ChatGPT, chosen for their unique features, popularity, and ecological significance. These parks showcase the diverse beauty of the world, from the geysers of Yellowstone to the coral reefs of the Great Barrier Reef. Each entry includes a brief summary and key details to help you explore their wonders. Note that UNESCO Status is a prestigious designation granted by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to sites of exceptional cultural, historical, or natural importance to humanity. These sites, recognized as World Heritage Sites, are protected for their universal value, fostering conservation efforts and global awareness. The status also provides funding and international cooperation to preserve these irreplaceable treasures for future generations. 1. Yellowstone National Park (United States) Yellowstone, the first national park in the world, is a geothermal wonderland with iconic features like Old Faithful and the Grand Prismatic Spring. Spanning three states—Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho—it boasts diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife, including bison, bears, and wolves. 2. Grand Canyon National Park (United States) The Grand Canyon is one of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders in the world. Carved by the Colorado River over millions of years, its immense size, layered rock formations, and vibrant colors attract millions of visitors annually. 3. Banff National Park (Canada) Nestled in the Canadian Rockies, Banff National Park is a pristine wilderness with turquoise glacial lakes, snow-capped peaks, and diverse wildlife. The park offers year-round activities, from skiing in winter to hiking and kayaking in summer. 4. Kruger National Park (South Africa) Kruger National Park is one of Africa's premier wildlife destinations, offering unparalleled opportunities to see the Big Five—lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffalo. Its vast savannahs, rivers, and woodlands are home to an incredible diversity of species. Established: 1926 Key features: Big Five safari drives, Crocodile River, and Baobab trees Wildlife: Lions, elephants, rhinos, cheetahs, giraffes, and more Activities: Guided safaris, self-drive tours, birdwatching, and bush walks Conservation role: Vital for protecting endangered species like rhinos Visitor numbers: Over 1.8 million annually 5. Yosemite National Park (United States) Famous for its granite cliffs, giant sequoias, and waterfalls, Yosemite is a natural wonderland. Iconic landmarks like El Capitan and Half Dome draw climbers, hikers, and nature lovers from around the globe. 6. Great Barrier Reef Marine Park (Australia) The Great Barrier Reef is the largest coral reef system in the world, stretching over 2,300 kilometers. It is home to an astounding array of marine life, from vibrant corals to sea turtles and tropical fish. 7. Torres del Paine National Park (Chile) Located in Patagonia, Torres del Paine National Park is a haven of dramatic landscapes, including jagged mountains, turquoise lakes, and glaciers. It's a paradise for hikers and adventure enthusiasts. Established: 1959 Key features: Torres del Paine peaks, Grey Glacier, and Lake Pehoé Wildlife: Pumas, guanacos, condors, and foxes Activities: Trekking, kayaking, horseback riding, and wildlife photography UNESCO status: Biosphere Reserve since 1978 Visitor numbers: Over 250,000 annually 8. Serengeti National Park (Tanzania) The Serengeti is synonymous with the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles traverse the plains. This iconic park offers unmatched opportunities to witness African wildlife. 9. Fiordland National Park (New Zealand) Fiordland National Park is a land of towering peaks, deep fiords, and cascading waterfalls. Its iconic Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound are among the most photographed natural wonders in the world. 10. Zhangjiajie National Forest Park (China) Famous for its towering sandstone pillars, Zhangjiajie National Forest Park served as inspiration for the floating mountains in the movie Avatar. Its unique landscapes make it one of China's most remarkable natural wonders. Conclusion on Top 10 National Parks The top 10 national parks in the world are not just breathtaking destinations—they are vital sanctuaries that protect biodiversity, preserve cultural heritage, inspire us, and create awe. From the geothermal wonders of Yellowstone to the vibrant coral reefs of the Great Barrier Reef, these parks showcase the planet's extraordinary beauty and diversity. Whether you're seeking adventure, tranquility, or inspiration, these parks offer unforgettable experiences. As stewards of these natural treasures, it is our responsibility to explore them sustainably, ensuring they remain pristine for future generations. Which one (or all) of these parks is on your bucket list? Related Articles: About the Authors: Richard D. Harroch is a Senior Advisor to CEOs, management teams, and Boards of Directors. He is an expert on M&A, venture capital, startups, and business contracts. He was the Managing Director and Global Head of M&A at VantagePoint Capital Partners, a venture capital fund in the San Francisco area. His focus is on internet, digital media, AI and technology companies. He was the founder of several Internet companies. His articles have appeared online in Forbes, Fortune, MSN, Yahoo, Fox Business and Richard is the author of several books on startups and entrepreneurship as well as the co-author of Poker for Dummies and a Wall Street Journal-bestselling book on small business. He is the co-author of a 1,500-page book published by Bloomberg on mergers and acquisitions of privately held companies. He was also a corporate and M&A partner at the international law firm of Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe. He has been involved in over 200 M&A transactions and 250 startup financings. He can be reached through LinkedIn. Dominique Harroch is the Chief of Staff at She has acted as a Chief of Staff or Operations Leader for multiple companies where she leveraged her extensive experience in operations management, strategic planning, and team leadership to drive organizational success. With a background that spans over two decades in operations leadership, event planning at her own start-up and marketing at various financial and retail companies, Dominique is known for her ability to optimize processes, manage complex projects and lead high-performing teams. She holds a BA in English and Psychology from U.C. Berkeley and an MBA from the University of San Francisco. She can be reached via LinkedIn.
The Print
21-05-2025
- The Print
Charminar to Golconda, Hyderabad is full of history. Yet not a single World Heritage Site
For once, the internet made a smart point—because had that actually been the case, the Charminar and other Hyderabad monuments might have made it to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites by now. It's a pity that despite being a global city, both historically and in the present day, Hyderabad still doesn't have a single monument on that list. All that we've had are feeble attempts. While their tour made global news, what got my attention were the many internet comments about the event. Many Hyderabadis kept reiterating one thing in their online comments: how things would be so much better if the Old City were free from its usual clutter for everyone and not just for fancy foreign guests. The whole world watched as the Old City of Hyderabad welcomed Miss World contestants during their heritage walk on the evening of 14 May, and I think, as a city, we couldn't have been prouder. The Charminar was swept clean and decorated, and the streets were sanitised to clear out the daily clutter and give the contestants a more comfortable experience. Also Read: The owners of Karachi Bakery are as Hyderabadi — and Indian — as anyone else Great sites, bad management With the exception of the Qutb Shahi tombs complex, monuments in Hyderabad are far from achieving UNESCO World Heritage Site status. The Golconda Fort and Charminar are globally known and attract a lot of tourists every year, but both sites are, frankly, good examples of bad management in general. (For now, Telangana's only spot on the list is the Kakatiya-era 13th-century Ramappa temple, which was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2020.) The Charminar, as it stands today, has a temple on it that the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) itself has previously said is an unauthorised construction (and that it has no records of it). The Golconda Fort, meanwhile, is surrounded by residential homes. These were built over the last four decades within its original boundary walls. What many of us don't realise is that when we go to the fort, we only visit the palace area of the citadel. The fort actually has eight gates and several other monuments within its enclosure, covering about 7 kilometres, but those slowly gave way to unauthorised constructions. In Hyderabad, the ASI controls the Golconda Fort and the Charminar, while the Qutb Shahi tombs are managed by the state government. I won't mention any other places when it comes to the UNESCO World Heritage list, because these are the most prominent and historically important sites. Also Read: What makes someone a Hyderabadi—Irani chai, biryani, Nizam nostalgia, or Dakhni? Failed attempts at rejuvenation Hyderabad's heritage has been routinely let down. The Charminar was built in 1591, when Mohd Quli Qutb Shah, the fourth king of the Golconda kingdom, decided to move out of the Golconda Fort, which had been the capital until then. His grandfather, Sultan Quli, who was of Persian origin, had founded the Qutb Shahi or Golconda kingdom in 1518. The Qutb Shahi tombs complex is where the entire dynasty is buried. This necropolis is possibly one of the best historical sites in India to explore, thanks to its fabulous restoration by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture. In 2020, there was supposedly a proposal to club it with other Deccan monuments in Bijapur and Bidar and nominate them together for the UNESCO World Heritage Site tag. However, that fell through. Then, about a decade ago, the state government had attempted the same with the Charminar and Golconda Fort. Even that did not work out due to the umpteen issues around both sites. Lack of basic public infrastructure, such as tourist amenities, and the failure to clear encroachments are two major issues that plague both monuments. Even the few limited successes barely lasted. For instance, in the Old City, the state government had started the Charminar Pedestrian Project, which unsuccessfully ran for over two decades to try and pedestrianise the main Pathergatti to Charminar stretch. While that didn't work out, the government finally managed to pedestrianise the 200–300 metre area in front of the Charminar about half a decade ago. I remember feeling happy then because hawkers had actually been kept off the main pathway leading to the Charminar. But even that lasted only two weeks, as the hawkers eventually reoccupied the road that was meant to facilitate a smooth walking experience. That, apart from the continuous littering caused by the hawkers and the general lack of hygiene, makes visiting the Charminar a terrible experience every single time. While there is now some hope with the Qutb Shahi tombs due to its restoration, we are still far from protecting and maintaining our monuments at a world-class level. Even citizens in those areas need to be sensitised to the fact that this will help them too. It will draw more tourists and help the city become a great destination that all of us can be proud of. Yunus Lasania is a Hyderabad-based journalist whose work primarily focuses on politics, history and culture. He tweets @YunusLasania. Views are personal. (Edited by Asavari Singh)
Leaders
11-05-2025
- General
- Leaders
AlUla, UNESCO Inaugurate 'Deep Surfaces' Exhibition in Venice
In collaboration with UNESCO, the Royal Commission for AlUla has inaugurated the 'Deep Surfaces: Architecture to Enhance the Visitor Experience of UNESCO Sites' exhibition in Venice, Italy, according to the Saudi Press Agency. As part of the Venice Biennale Architecture 2025, the exhibition will run until November 23, at Palazzo Zorzi in Venice. The exhibition features more than 50 projects located in UNESCO-designated sites, such as World Heritage Sites, Biosphere Reserves, and Global Geoparks. Promisingly, the event represents a valuable platform for visitors to explore the role of architecture in boosting visitor experiences, protecting cultural heritage and connecting narratives to people and place. Furthermore, the exhibition offers glimpses into the role of architecture in supporting local economies and promoting social inclusion. In response to complex contemporary challenges, the exhibition also promotes the role of these sites as learning spaces for sustainable development and global citizenship. Interestingly, the event will also highlight the ancient city of Hegra in AlUla as the first Saudi site inscribed on UNESCO's World Heritage List. The exhibition also showcases various initiatives designed to encourage public engagement and preserving the site. As part of a broader partnership for heritage preservation and sustainable development, the occasion highlights the joint efforts of the Royal Commission for AlUla and UNESCO to establish a reference model for best practices. Related Topics: AlUla Fosters Global Presence with Five New Partnerships Eid Al-Fitr 2025: Enjoy Unmissable Experiences in AlUla Al-Ahsa Hosts UNESCO Creative Cities Forum 2025 Short link : Post Views: 13
The Herald Scotland
22-04-2025
- Science
- The Herald Scotland
Origin and evolution of Darwin's work honoured by UNESCO
Scientists have said the collection - the majority of which was unknown or unpublished until now - shows the 'extraordinary extent' of Darwin's research. A collaboration between the National Library of Scotland, Cambridge University Library, the Natural History Museum, the Linnean Society of London, English Heritage's Down House and the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew provides a unique window into the life and work of one of the world's most influential natural scientists. Darwin died in 1882 and an inventory of his home recorded more than 2,000 bound books. Read More: Arran awarded Global Geopark status by UNESCO The UNESCO Memory of the World Programme serves as the documentary heritage equivalent of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, protecting invaluable records that tell the story of human civilisation. It highlights its critical importance to global science and the necessity of its long-term preservation and accessibility. The complete archive, comprising over 20,000 items, includes Darwin's records illustrating the development of his ground-breaking theory of evolution and extensive global travels. Correspondence with Darwin's publisher John Murray, held at the National Library of Scotland documents the transformation of his research into print, including the ground-breaking On the Origin of Species publication. At Cambridge University Library, the Darwin Archive is a significant collection of his books, experimental notes, correspondence, and photographs, representing his scientific and personal activities throughout his life. The collection in Cambridge includes Darwin's pocket notebooks recording early statements of key ideas contributing to his theory of evolution, notably that species are not stable. These provide important insights into the development of his thought and feature the iconic 'Tree of Life' diagram which he drew on his return from the voyage of the HMS Beagle. Read More: Hogmanay and Highland dancing could become protected as UK heritage The Linnean Society of London holds several of Darwin's letters, manuscripts and books. Here is also home to John Collier's original iconic portrait of Charles Darwin, commissioned by the Society and painted in 1883 to commemorate the first reading of the theory of evolution by natural selection at a Linnean Society meeting in 1858. At the Natural History Museum, a letter written to his wife Emma in 1844, provides insight into Darwin's perceived significance of his species theory research and holds instructions on what she should do in the case of his sudden death. This is alongside other letters to Museum staff and other family members which demonstrate the broad scope of his scientific thinking, research and communication ranging from caterpillars to volcanoes, dahlias to ants and the taking of photographs for his third publication Expression of the Emotions in Man and Animals. Read More: The future of Glasgow's UNESCO City of Music status Kirsty McHugh, Curator, John Murray Archive & Publishers' Collections, National Library of Scotland, said: 'Undertaking the publication of 'On the Origin of Species' was a pivotal moment for Charles Darwin and his publisher John Murray. 'Both took huge reputational risks in putting this research before the public, but it paid off. "Archives like these serve as a reminder to us all how life – and the events that make up our lives and legacies – truly can go one way or the other. 'It is fitting that archives of such significance have been recognised this way by UNESCO.' Among the items is a German periodical containing the first known photograph of bacteria. Most works are in English, although half were published in other languages including German, French, Italian, Spanish, Dutch and Danish. At the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, documents include a highly significant collection of 44 letters sent around the HMS Beagle expedition from Darwin to Professor John Stevens Henslow, detailing his travels and the genesis of his theory of evolution as he comes in contact with new plants and wildlife. Baroness Chapman of Darlington, Minister of State for International Development said: 'The recognition of the Charles Darwin archive on UNESCO's International Memory of the World Register is a proud moment for British science and heritage.'
