The Musafir Stories - India Travel Podcast Saif & Faiza

Old Delhi, part of India's capital, is a historic gem founded as Shahjahanabad in the 17th century. It features the iconic Red Fort, a UNESCO site, and bustling markets like Chandni Chowk offering diverse cuisines. The grand Jama Masjid mosque and religious sites showcase harmony. The Lahori Gate of the Red Fort holds Independence Day speeches. Amid challenges of congestion and aging infrastructure, preservation efforts are underway. This culturally rich area blends traditions, including Jain, Sikh, and Christian influences. Old Delhi's charm, a fusion of history and cultures, makes it a captivating destination for travelers and history buffs alike.

George Town is a busy commercial zone dotted with colonial-era buildings like the 17th-century Fort St. George, which is the seat of the state government. Other architectural landmarks include the 18th-century Armenian Church, known for its belfry and 6 huge bells, and the imposing Indo-Saracenic Madras High Court building. Mint Street’s North Indian food stalls sell sweets and snacks.

Traveling to Meghalaya offers a captivating escape into a world of natural wonders and cultural diversity. Nestled in the northeastern region of India, Meghalaya is known as the "Abode of Clouds," and for good reason. Its lush landscapes, rolling hills, and mist-covered plateaus create a breathtaking backdrop for exploration. Visitors are drawn to the state for its stunning living root bridges, enchanting waterfalls, and unique cave systems that promise unforgettable adventures. The local tribal communities, with their vibrant traditions, warm hospitality, and colorful festivals, provide a rich cultural experience. Whether you're seeking a trek through pristine forests, a chance to witness one of the world's wettest places, or a deep dive into indigenous heritage, Meghalaya promises a journey that blends nature and culture in the most captivating way.

This week, The Musafir Stories speaks with Anuj Haribhakti, a long time listener and avid traveller as we speak about the only place in the world where Asiatic lions live, Gir National Park! Today's destination: Gir National Park, Gujarat Nearest Airport: Rajkot Airport (RAJ) Nearest Railway Station: Junagadh Railway Station (JND) Prerequisites -  Book for permits to safaris 2-3 months in advance and lodging. Packing - According to the weather, sunscreen, hats, bug repellent Time of the year - September - Feb Length of the itinerary: 4-5 days Itinerary Highlights: Anuj talks about the USP of the Gir national park, home to the world’s only Asiatic lion population. We discuss how excessive hunting by the Royal families and British officers  and human movement had made this a critically endangered species in the early 1900s. We also discuss how the State government and other stakeholders have been able to turn the situation around in the early 2000s. Anuj discusses the importance of booking the safaris and lodging in advance (2-3 months before the trip) as well as the best times for sighting. Finally Anuj shares his experience sighting over 20 lions in his 4 days at the Gir National park. This ranges from fully grown males, to a young couple and mother and cubs. He also discusses the nearby Devaliya sanctuary where lions and leopards are kept in closed environment. We also touch upon places in the vicinity that one could include as a part of an extended itinerary - including Sasan Gir, Swaminath temple, Diu and Junagadh. Link to Anuj’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anujph/ Photo by Lenstravelier on Unsplash Follow the Musafir stories on: Twitter : https://twitter.com/musafirstories?lang=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/themusafirstories/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/musafirstoriespodcast/?hl=en website: http://www.themusafirstories.com email: themusafirstories@gmail.com Do follow IVM Podcasts on social media. We are @‌IVMPodcasts on Facebook, Twitter, & Instagram. Follow the show across platforms: Spotify, Google Podcasts, Apple Podcasts, JioSaavn, Gaana, Amazon Music Do share the word with your folks!

This week, The Musafir Stories speaks with Sahana Kulur, an educator, architect, traveler and blogger at http://www.vacaywork.com as she takes us to the erstwhile capital of the Adil Shahi sultanate - Bijapur!

This week, The Musafir Stories speaks with Krishan Insan, a traveller and clean energy professional as he takes us to this lesser known gem of the North East - Tripura!