Travel

To boost tourism and strengthen cultural ties, Russia has announced that Indian tourists will be able to travel visa-free starting spring 2025. This initiative aims to make Russia a more accessible and attractive destination for Indian travelers, simplifying the process and encouraging more visitors to explore its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities.

Officials believe this decision will lead to a significant rise in tourist arrivals from India, which was among the top five countries for e-visa issuance to Russia in 2023. By removing visa barriers, Russia hopes to tap into India’s growing outbound tourism market and promote cultural exchanges between the two nations.

Key Highlights of the Initiative:

• Visa-free entry for Indian tourists starting from spring 2025
• Easier and faster travel process, eliminating the need for visa applications
• Projected surge in Indian tourist arrivals, benefiting Russia’s tourism industry
• Enhanced cultural and economic ties between India and Russia

With this decision, Russia joins a growing list of countries offering visa-free travel to Indian tourists, recognizing India's expanding footprint in global travel. The move is expected to attract more Indian visitors eager to explore destinations like Moscow, St. Petersburg, the Trans-Siberian Railway, and the scenic landscapes of Siberia.

For Indian travelers seeking new and exciting international experiences, Russia’s visa-free policy will be a major incentive. From the grandeur of the Kremlin and Red Square to the awe-inspiring beauty of Lake Baikal and the Northern Lights in Murmansk, the country offers a diverse range of attractions that cater to history buffs, adventure seekers, and cultural enthusiasts alike.

With simplified entry requirements, Indian tourists can now plan spontaneous trips to Russia, making it a top destination for holidays, business, and cultural exploration. This initiative is expected to further deepen Indo-Russian relations, paving the way for stronger people-to-people connections and economic collaboration.

For the devout and adventurous, India offers a range of temple treks that test one's physical and mental endurance. From the snow-capped peaks of Uttarakhand to the rugged terrain of Jammu and Kashmir, these temple treks promise breathtaking views, spiritual experiences, and unforgettable adventures. 

Kedarnath Temple: A 14km Trek to the Abode of Lord Shiva

Located in Uttarakhand's Rudraprayag district, the Kedarnath Temple is one of the most revered Hindu shrines. The 14km trek from Gaurikund is a challenging journey that takes devotees through steep mountain trails and unpredictable weather conditions.

Amarnath Cave Temple: A 46km Trek to the Abode of Lord Shiva

In Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag district lies the Amarnath Cave Temple, a sacred Hindu site that attracts thousands of devotees every year. The 46km trek from Pahalgam or 14km trek from Baltal is a grueling journey that tests one's physical endurance and mental toughness.

Tungnath Temple: A 3.5km Trek to the Highest Shiva Temple

Located in Uttarakhand's Rudraprayag district, the Tungnath Temple is the highest Shiva temple in the world. The 3.5km trek from Chopta is a steep and challenging journey that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

Badrinath Temple: A Journey to the Abode of Lord Vishnu

In Uttarakhand's Chamoli district lies the Badrinath Temple, a sacred Hindu site that attracts thousands of devotees every year. While the temple is accessible by road, the high altitude and unpredictable weather conditions make it a challenging journey.

Kailash Manasarovar: A 53km Trek to the Abode of Lord Shiva

Located in Tibet's autonomous region, the Kailash Manasarovar is a sacred Hindu site that attracts thousands of devotees every year. The 53km trek from Darchen is a challenging journey that tests one's physical endurance and mental toughness.

These temple treks offer a unique blend of faith, adventure, and natural beauty, making them a must-visit destination for the devout and adventurous.

In a remarkable display of endurance and determination, 52-year-old veteran swimmer Goli Syamala has successfully completed a 150km swim in the Bay of Bengal, covering the distance from Visakhapatnam (Vizag) to Kakinada in just five days.

This incredible feat, which began on December 28 at R.K. Beach in Vizag and concluded on January 1 at NTR Beach in Kakinada, showcases Syamala's unwavering passion for open water swimming and her commitment to promoting this challenging sport in Andhra Pradesh.

A native of Samalkot in Kakinada district, Syamala's journey into swimming began as a way to combat depression after shutting down her animation studio. What started as a hobby at summer swim camps soon turned into a mission to create awareness about open water swimming and encourage people to explore this exciting sport.

Syamala's impressive resume boasts an array of remarkable swimming accomplishments, including:

• Palk Strait: Swam 30km in 13 hours and 43 minutes, becoming the second woman to achieve this feat.
• Catalina Channel: Covered 36km from Catalina Island to Los Angeles in 19 hours in freezing 12°C temperatures.
• Lakshadweep Islands: Swam 48km from Kilton Island to Kadmath Island in 18 hours, inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's call to promote Lakshadweep tourism.

In addition to these impressive achievements, Syamala has also swum across several major rivers, including the Krishna River, Hooghly River, Ganges River, and Bhagirathi River. The Vizag-Kakinada Challenge was Syamala's most ambitious undertaking yet, with the goal of bringing attention to the potential of Andhra Pradesh in fostering open water swimming and water sports. To ensure her safety and success, Syamala assembled a 12-member team, including observers, a doctor, physiotherapist, feeders, scuba divers, and kayakers, supported by two large boats and a smaller vessel.

As Syamala's remarkable achievement inspires a new generation of swimmers and water sports enthusiasts, Andhra Pradesh is poised to become a hub for open water swimming and water sports in India. Whether you're a seasoned swimmer or just starting out, Visakhapatnam and Kakinada offer a unique and exciting destination for your next water sports adventure.

Getting There: Visakhapatnam is well-connected to major cities in India, with regular flights and trains available. Kakinada is approximately 160km from Visakhapatnam and can be reached by road or rail.

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Visakhapatnam and Kakinada is from October to February, when the weather is cool and pleasant.
Accommodation: Visakhapatnam and Kakinada offer a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hotels to luxury resorts.

Water Sports: In addition to open water swimming, Visakhapatnam and Kakinada offer a range of water sports, including surfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

What if your daily commute could transform into a breathtaking flight above gridlocked traffic? A revolutionary invention by a 16-year-old innovator is turning this dream into reality. Inspired by cutting-edge air taxi technology from China, this young genius has developed a human-carrying drone, marking the dawn of a new era in transportation.

This state-of-the-art drone can carry individuals weighing up to 70 kg, reaching speeds of 60 km/h with a flight duration of 30 minutes. Designed with safety in mind, it features GPS navigation, advanced sensors, and even a parachute system for emergencies. The result? A seamless, thrilling travel experience that combines innovation with peace of mind.

The possibilities are as vast as the skies. Picture soaring over the verdant landscapes of the Scottish Highlands or getting a bird’s-eye view of Tokyo’s glittering skyline. For thrill-seekers, drone tours over iconic destinations like the Grand Canyon or the Swiss Alps could soon be a reality. Beyond leisure, urban commuters might bypass snarling traffic with quick aerial trips, reshaping how we experience our daily journeys.

The implications of this invention extend far beyond convenience. By taking travel to the skies, human-carrying drones could ease urban congestion, reduce carbon emissions, and revolutionize short-distance travel. As governments and industries invest in greener and smarter infrastructure, this drone could become a critical piece in the puzzle of sustainable transportation.

At the heart of this story is a teenager’s bold vision to challenge the status quo. Fueled by curiosity and determination, this young inventor is proof that groundbreaking ideas can come from anyone, anywhere. Their invention not only showcases remarkable technical prowess but also offers a glimpse into a future where innovation has no bounds.

As this pioneering technology advances, the world watches with anticipation. Whether it’s for leisure or practicality, the dream of personal drone travel feels closer than ever. Are you ready to take flight and leave the traffic jams behind? The skies are waiting, and this teenager’s invention might soon make it possible.

Tinkesh Kaushik, a 30-year-old fitness coach from Goa, has etched his name in history as the first triple amputee to trek to the Mount Everest Base Camp, located 17,598 feet above sea level. This extraordinary journey highlights not only the resilience of the human spirit but also the transformative power of travel.

Despite losing both legs below the knee and one hand in an electrocution accident at the age of nine, Tinkesh embraced the challenge of the demanding Everest Base Camp trek. Using prosthetic limbs, he defied odds and reached the iconic destination on May 11, 2024, inspiring travelers and adventurers around the globe.

The Journey to Everest Base Camp

Tinkesh’s preparation for the trek was as impressive as the feat itself. Without prior mountaineering experience, he spent months training and conditioning himself for the grueling journey. The Everest Base Camp trek, considered one of the most scenic yet challenging in the world, demands immense physical endurance and mental resilience.

The journey wasn’t without its struggles. On the second day, Tinkesh faced acute mountain sickness and saw his health deteriorate due to the high-altitude conditions. Yet, he pushed forward, drawing on his mental strength and determination to reach his goal.

Travel for a Cause

Tinkesh’s journey wasn’t solely a personal triumph. Sharing his experience on Instagram, he revealed that he undertook the trek not only for himself but also for a cause—to raise awareness about the capabilities of people with disabilities and inspire others to embrace travel as a tool for growth and self-discovery.

Inspiration for Travelers Everywhere

As a fitness coach and now an adventurer, Tinkesh’s story is a testament to how travel can empower individuals to overcome challenges. His accomplishment on International Mountain Day serves as a reminder of the boundless potential of the human spirit and the unique inspiration that mountains provide.

Through his journey, Tinkesh Kaushik proves that no obstacle is insurmountable when fueled by determination and a thirst for exploration.

The story of Indian Americans is one of hope, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of success. From the first steps taken on American soil to achieving remarkable heights in diverse fields, this community's journey reflects the transformative power of ambition and determination.

A Humble Beginning

It started over a century ago when the first wave of Indian immigrants arrived in America. Drawn by the promise of opportunity, they left behind familiar lives in search of a new beginning. Many worked in farms and factories, their days filled with labor and their nights with dreams. Though they faced prejudice and struggled to adapt, they brought with them something invaluable—a rich cultural heritage that they held onto with pride.

The Role of Education

As the community grew, a belief took root: education was the path to a better life. Parents encouraged their children to excel, to study hard, and to seize opportunities that had once seemed out of reach. Over time, this emphasis bore fruit. By the 21st century, Indian Americans had achieved an astounding milestone—82% of them held college degrees, a testament to their commitment to learning.

Scaling New Heights

Education opened doors to fields where Indian Americans thrived, and soon, their names began to shine on the global stage. In technology, they spearheaded innovations—Sundar Pichai leading Google and Satya Nadella steering Microsoft. In business, they broke barriers, with figures like Indra Nooyi transforming the corporate world.

Their influence wasn’t limited to boardrooms and labs. Indian Americans entered politics, with Kamala Harris rising to the vice presidency, proving that no goal was too ambitious. Their journey became a symbol of the immigrant dream fulfilled.

Navigating Challenges

Yet, this story wasn’t without its challenges. Many grappled with questions of identity, torn between preserving their cultural roots and embracing American life. Academic pressure and high parental expectations weighed heavily on the younger generation. Even in success, the road remained steep.

Today, Indian Americans stand as one of the most successful immigrant groups in the U.S. Their story is far from over. It’s a narrative of progress, resilience, and unity—one that inspires future generations to dream even bigger while staying grounded in their heritage. From humble beginnings to shaping the world, the journey of Indian Americans is a tale of how ambition and hard work can overcome any obstacle, crafting a legacy of lasting impact.