In Own Your Backyard

We’re all up for experiencing new cultures. But you’d be surprised how much there is to see and how little you probably know about your own city. Here’s Team OT unlocking your hidden treasures

TRYST WITH divinity

A cacophony of sights and sounds, Varanasi is flanked by endless chains of ghats

VISIT THE DASASHWAMEDH GHAT TO WITNESS THE GANGA AARTI

Saffron-clad priests in the temple, pilgrims flooding the complex and clueless travellers staggering around. The best way to catch a glimpse of this life unravelling in Varanasi is an early morning boat ride. While a majority of the ghats serve as the centre of religious ceremonies, two are used as cremation sites. Start your day at the Assi Ghat, where locals bathe before praying to Lord Shiva. Harishchandra Ghat and Manikarnika Ghat are known as the burning ghats. As the ashes and smoke engulf you, it’s a challenging sight to witness, yet a true spectacle.

Varanasi is connected by road via NH-19

DASH OF colour

A heritage colonial quarter in the heart of panaji, Fontainhas is a window into the portuguese legacy that is still alive

JOIN ORGANISED TOURS FOR AS LITTLE AS ₹500 PER PERSON

Replete with colourful lanes and colonial architecture, Fontainhas in Panaji is a treasure hidden in plain sight. Also called the Latin Quarters, it is dotted with pops of colour. A heritage walk through these narrow cobbled streets will transport you back in time. One of the most interesting aspects of the houses and cottages in Fontainhas is that they are painted every year after the monsoons. Visit the St. Sebastian Chapel that contains relics from the the Goan Inquisition. Fontainhas is peppered with small eateries and bakeries that serve traditional Goan fish curry and bebinca.

Do try the baked goods at Confeitaria 31 De Janeiro