Maharashtra's western coast is rightfully a much-celebrated travel destination, drawing visitors from not just within the state but across the country. But perhaps with the exception of some intrepid hyperlocal seekers, the sheer diversity of Maharashtra's sights, ranging from smaller cities like Nashik to geological marvels like the Lonar Lake remain underexplored.
As the Indian subcontinent slid into summer from spring, with temperatures still bearable during the day, I got a chance to explore a tiny bit of the state's heartland, starting from the wine capital of India, Nashik, to the erstwhile Delhi Sultanate and Mughal capital of Aurangabad.
SWIRLY TALES
Nashik, with its volcanic soil, elevation from sea level, and climate suited to growing the kind of grapes required for winemaking, is the undoubted 'wine capital of the country. And no trip to the city is complete without a tour of its many vineyards. A number of popular brands produce their wines here, including Sula Vineyards, York Winery, and Chandon India, among others.
I had a chance to do a quick tour of one of the more popular ones, Sula, and even got a lesson in tasting from the resident expert.
There were a total of six wines on offer, ranging from dry reds to crisp whites and even a dessert rosé. With instructions to hold the glass only by the stem and swirl the wine well before sniffing and taking a sip, I had my task cut out. All the wine-tasting, of course, is hungry work and the restaurant on the first floor is perfect for grabbing a spot of grub with plenty of breath-taking views of the vineyards around.
SPICY DETOURS
Denne historien er fra May - June 2022-utgaven av National Geographic Traveller India.
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Denne historien er fra May - June 2022-utgaven av National Geographic Traveller India.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
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Best Of The World 2023
Travel inspiration is everywhere. The question is where to go next. Here's our annual list of enlightened destinations for the year aheadplaces filled with wonder, rewarding to travellers of all ages, and supportive of local communities and ecosystems. Framed by five categories (Community, Nature, Culture, Family, Adventure), these destinations are under the radar, ahead of the curve, and ready for you to start exploring.
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DIVING INTO RAS AL KHAIMAH
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