Hello 6E-Oct'22

123rd Issue, Oct 2022 For in-flight reading only

Adventures in

Ras Al Khaimah

Please sanitise your hands before and after reading me. We want you safe.

“Every leaf speaks bliss to me, fluttering from the autumn tree.”

– Author Emily Brontë

It's that time of the year again when the sun is a soft orb of orange and nature offers us its best show, afresh after the monsoon rains. In India, this is the time when national parks open their gates to travellers after being shut during the rainy season. There isn't a better time to step out and explore the wilderness. In this issue of Hello 6E, we bring you close to nature, through forests and adventure!

In the Offbeat section, we travel to four spectacular forests in India.

From the vibrant Valley of Flowers National Park in Uttarakhand and the not-so-known Great Nicobar Biosphere Reserve in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, to the enigmatic Kaziranga National Park in Assam and the Panna Biosphere Reserve in Madhya Pradesh, we give you reasons to plan a green vacation in the months to come.

First Note

LaunchPad

In the Now Boarding section, we fly to the wonderland of Ras Al Khaimah in the UAE. With over 7,000 years of history, this hidden gem, just around 45 minutes from Dubai, is an adventure wonderland with pristine beaches, lush mangrove trees and vivid terracotta dunes. But to top it all, are the dramatic vistas of the majestic Hajar mountain range, which is home to the UAE’s highest peak, Jebel Jais.

In the Skyline section, we discover the mysteries of the Nilgiri Biosphere National Park in southern India.

Turn the pages of the magazine to the Vignette section to admire varied shades of Fall in destinations across the world.

As autumn also heralds the season of festivals in India, we leave you with a thought in the Green Intentions section – when you celebrate, spare a thought for the environment! #goIndiGo

1

Contents October 2022

IndiGo Business Head Niraj Batra Brand & Content C Leekha customer.relations@goindigo.in

Publisher Maxposure Media Group CEO and Managing Director Prakash Johari Head Office | Maxposure Media Group India Pvt. Ltd. #TheAddress, Plot No. 62, Okhla Industrial Area, Phase III, New Delhi-110020, India Phone: + 91 11 4301 1111, Fax: +91 11 4301 1199 Advertising: info@maxposuremedia.com E-mail: indigoads@maxposuremedia.com

India offices Bengaluru | One Co.work, Level 2, Sony World Junction, 80 Feet Road, Kormangala, Bengaluru - 560034; Phone: +91 9036118899 Mumbai | 506-508 Durga Chamber, Veera Desai Extension Road, Andheri (West), Mumbai - 400053; Phone: +91 9820463341 Kolkata | 132A, S.P. Mukherjee Road, 1st Floor, Kalighat, Kolkata - 700026; Phone: +91 9088456286 Chennai | Inspire Workspace Gulecha Towers, 158, 2nd, Arcot Rd, Vadapalani, Chennai, Tamil Nadu - 600026; Phone: +91 9840861133

International offices usa | 22 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 108, Mineola New York 11501 E-mail: usa@maxposuremedia.com

Cover

Singapore: | 51 GoldHill Plaza, #07-10/11, Singapore 308900 E-mail: singapore@maxposuremedia.com

Experience the adventure paradise of Ras Al Khaimah on the cover of the October issue of Hello 6E. Enjoy zip-lining, toboggan rides, mountain biking, hiking, abseiling, rock climbing and much more at this gem in the UAE.

Malaysia | 9 Jalan Tunku, 50480 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia E-mail: malaysia@maxposuremedia.com Bangladesh | Profficio 2nd floor, 4 Mohakhali Commercial Area Dhaka 1212, Bangladesh E-mail: bangladesh@maxposuremedia.com UAE | Dubai Media City, Building No. 8, Premises No. 523, Fifth Floor, Dubai, UAE E-mail: uae@maxposuremedia.com Italy | Lungotevere Flaminio 26, 00196 Rome, Italy E-mail: italy@maxposuremedia.com

The ‘HELLO 6E’ magazine is published by MaXposure Media Group Private Limited (“Publisher”) for exclusive circulation on commercial flights operated by InterGlobe Aviation Limited (“IndiGo”). All articles, advertisement, content, images and photographs published herein are created by the Publisher and/or contributor at their own discretion and do not necessarily represent the views of IndiGo. All rights, title and interest (including intellectual property rights) in and to the materials shall vest either with the Publisher or any contributor (including IndiGo, in certain cases) of such materials.

The Publisher is solely liable for any claims for breach of intellectual property rights by any third party in relation to materials appearing in the HELLO 6E magazine (except such materials and content which have been created by IndiGo, in which case IndiGo or its service providers shall be liable for such claims). IndiGo shall bear no liability for any article, content, advertisement, advertorial, image or photograph appearing in any issue of this magazine including any content which is communal, indecent, gender discriminatory, caste-creed discriminatory, racist, defamatory or libelous to any person, organisation, etc., except in case of content which has been created by IndiGo. All materials are strictly copyrighted and all rights reserved. No part of the publication may be reproduced in whole or part without prior written permission of the copyright holder, Publisher and IndiGo. All articles marked as ‘Talking Point’ in the magazine are advertorials.

CIN No U22229DL2006PTC152087

Website: maxposuremedia.com

12

FirstRow Glimpses of domestic and international destinations of IndiGo network.

20 OffBeat

As we set off on an adventure into the wild, join us to explore four of the country's most stunning forest covers.

6E Menu

26 Skyline

Take some time off and rest in the lap of nature when you visit the Nilgiri Biosphere Nature Park near Coimbatore.

51

Contents October 2022

30

DuelAction

32 36 39 42 Now Boarding

MyCity MyWay

Whites sands, beautiful dunes and stunning mountains make Ras Al Khaimah in the UAE a tourist paradise.

Entrepreneur Namita Thapar talks about her love for the city of Pune and her debut book.

Discovering similarities in two different cities of the world.

4

Viewpoint

Rediscovering Thailand in five ways.

Vignette

Revel in the magic of the autumn sun at destinations across the world.

46 AceCorner

Ace Shooter Abhinav Bindra on India's sporting culture and steps to improve it.

October 2022

OpenAir

around the world Here's a sneak peek into what's in store from the genres of travel, lifestyle, events and festivals, books and films, and tech.

a

b

night under the beautiful moonlight accompanied with foot-tapping beats of folk music from the world over - the Jodhpur RIFF (Rajasthan International Film Festival) is back with a bang. Get set to be enthralled by the magical tunes of over 250 amazing performers, both international and Indian. Mark the dates on your calendar for the fourday fiesta (October 6 to 10) to be held at the iconic Mehrangarh Fort.

e prepared to be blown away when you visit the hippest new place in Mumbai - Tierra Restro & Bar. Located in the heart of the city, in the plush Atria the Millennium Mall, its specially curated menu boasts a creative vegetarian fare. Try its modern and flavoursome take on kulchas - thyme-infused soy kheema sriracha kulcha, and hummus and feta cheese Peshawari kulcha. Indulge in some truffle paneer kalimiri with burnt garlic naan or the Kolhapuri kathal slider to satiate your cravings.

6

October 2022

Welcome to Ka-ching, the realm of smart travel.

Complimentary air ticket worth 3000

Complimentary 6E Prime add-on worth 899

6% on IndiGo website and app bookings

3% on dining, entertainment, and groceries

15% on featured partner

8 complimentary domestic airport lounge access

Vouchers worth 5000 from partners

Discounted convenience fee of 150 on IndiGo flight bookings on website and app

Additional benefits on featured partners.

6% on stay, F&B

4% on fuel

and spa

15% on F&B

3% on coins and collectibles

15% on beauty products

10% on shaving & grooming products

10% on gadgets

10% on hair and skin care products

3% on dining

WhatsApp ‘KACHING’ to become a 6E Rewards member

63 6313 63 63 T&C apply.

g

ood news for contemporary art lovers around the world - the Singapore Biennale is back. The seventh edition of the art extravaganza, also named Natasha, has announced an exceptional line-up of over 50 artists and collaborators from the world over. Audiences can look forward to projects that create spaces for interaction, reflection and which invite public participation. The co-artistic directors of the event, which will begin from October 16, include Binna Choi, Nida Ghouse, June Yap and Ala Younis.

h

ave a quick look into the mind of one of America's most infamous serial killers, Jeffery Dahmer, in the latest season of the Netflix documentary series Conversations with a Killer.

Directed by Joe Berlinger, the series rewinds to the 20th century and produces never-beforeseen audio clips of the conversation between the killer and his defense team offering a deeper insight into his psyche and how he managed to evade the police for years. The three-part series will be available on the OTT platform from October 7.

j 8

October 2022

oin private detectives Cormoran Strike and Robin Ellacott on a journey to unravel the truth behind the identity of a mysterious online figure after a co-creator of a popular cartoon is found dead. The Ink Black Heart, published by Hachette India, is the latest addition by JK Rowling, writing under the pseudonym Robert Galbraith, to the Cormoran Strike series.

r

elish some of the finest world cuisines at the new cafe, Fig at Malcha.

This one-of-a-kind restaurant near Lutyen's Delhi is the latest goto destination for the health and environmentally-conscious. The menu features a wide range of healthy fare prepared with fresh produce sourced from local farms. The breakfast menu is extensive and it also boasts a Parisian style in-house bakery and 'farmto-cup' specialty coffee. Enjoy the open, white space surrounded by greenery!

t 10

ake a dive into the world of spirituality when you read about the famous Kumbh Mela at Prayagraj and know about its traditions, as millions visit the sangam, the confluence of the holy Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati rivers.

In Search of the Pitcher of Nectar, the recently-released English translation of Amrita Kumbher Sandhaney, authored originally in Bengali by Sahitya Akademi-winner Samaresh Basu and published by Niyogi Books, takes us on a journey along with the sages and devotees seeking atonement.

October 2022

y

ou can plan everything in life, but you can’t plan with whom and when you’ll fall in love.

To the delight of romance buffs, one of India's foremost new-age authors, Durjoy Datta, is back with another banger. In his latest publication, join Aishwarya, a 28-year-old independent and strong-willed woman on a journey that will make you fall in love with the idea of love.

FirstRow History calling

A bird's-eye view of some domestic & international destinations of IndiGo

Check List

Laxmi Vilas Palace is an architectural marvel that dates back to the 19th century. Spanning 500 acres, it houses stunning chandeliers and artworks, and an impressive collection of weaponry and art.

Plan it right

Paying homage to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the massive Statue of Unity attracts tourists from across the world. Towering over the landscape, the statue hosts a spectacular laser show providing an insight into the statesman's life.

Vadodara India Gujarat

Best time to visit October to March.

Currency Indian Rupee.

12

October 2022

Map not to scale

Fact The Laxmi Vilas Palace is said to be four times the size of London's Buckingham Palace.

IndiGo to Vadodara www.goindigo.in

Images are for visual representation only

Shop it right

Bring home exclusive and vibrant collections of sarees and traditional salwar-suits among other wearables.

Accessorise your collection with handcrafted jewellery from the local market.

A hot brew to kickstart your morning I N T E R N AT I O N A L C O F F E E DAY

October 1

Celebrated every year, International Coffee Day brings together people who share the common love for a hot cup of joe. The day is dedicated to educating people about the numerous health benefits of having coffee.

So sit back and relax as you take a sip of a freshly-brewed cuppa.

Images are for visual representation only

Kozhikode India IndiGo to Kozhikode www.goindigo.in Map not to scale

Kerala

Check List Plan it Right

Bask in the wonders of the Arippara Falls when you visit the city.

Its peaceful environs, verdant surroundings and gushing white waters can delight any nature lover.

14

October 2022

Eat it right

Take a sip of piping hot Sulaimani tea while you wait to feast on the culinary delights of Kerala. Gorge on delicious chicken stew with appam or try the lip-smacking duck roast.

History Calling

The Pazhassi Raja Museum and Art Gallery is a must visit. Admire murals, antique bronzes, ancient coins, models of temples and artworks of Kerala's cherished artist Raja Ravi Varma.

Fact Kozhikode was once dubbed the “City of Spices” for its role as a major trading point of Eastern spices.

Best time to visit October to February.

Currency Indian Rupee.

Images are for visual representation only

Mysuru India IndiGo to Mysuru www.goindigo.in Map not to scale

Karnataka

Check List Plan it Right

Eat it right

Gifting Zone

The Amba Vilas Palace (Mysore Palace) adds charm to the city skyline. Built between 1897 and 1912, the ornately-designed threestoreyed palace illuminates the city with almost 97,000 lights that are lit during Mysuru Dussehra.

Relish the taste of Mysuru's culinary gems through the famous Mysuru masala dosa, the delectable chicken ghee roast or the ever popular Mysuru pak.

For shopaholics, a visit to the city cannot be complete without purchasing iconic Mysuru silk sarees. The city's rich collection of artisanal jewellery and mesmerising woodwork will make you update your shopping list.

16

October 2022

Fact Amba Vilas Palace, one of the most popular tourist attractions in Mysuru, was designed by English architect, Henry Irwin.

Best time to visit October to February.

Currency Indian Rupee.

Images are for visual representation only

Kuwait Kuwait Kuwait City

IndiGo to Kuwait www.goindigo.in

Map not to scale

Check List Eat Right

Plan it Right

Savour the taste of an authentic Kuwaiti fare.

Try the mouthwatering gers ogaily, a traditional sponge cake, which is best accompanied with tea.

18

October 2022

Dominating the Kuwaiti skyline are the three slender Kuwait Towers that symbolise Kuwait’s economic resurgence.

Inaugurated in 1979, the towers stand on a promontory into the Arabian Gulf.

History Calling

Established in the 20th century, the National Museum is divided into four blocks, which provide an insight into the history and heritage of Kuwait.

Fact The Grand Mosque is the biggest and the official Mosque of Kuwait. All official religious celebrations are held in this mosque and locals refer to it as ‘Al-Masjid AlKabir’.

Best time to visit November to April.

Currency Kuwaiti Dinar.

Eat Right

Check List

Start your day in the city with pyaz ki kachori (onion-filled snack). Enjoy gatte ki sabzi (gram flour dumpling curry), lahsun ki chutney (garlic chutney), laal maas (meat curry) and roti (flatbread) for a hearty meal.

history calling

Amer Fort is an architectural masterpiece built with pale yellow and pink sandstone, and white marble. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the 'Light and Sound Show' here is nothing less than a cultural kaleidoscope.

Jaipur gifting ZonE

India

Rajasthan

Best time to visit October to March.

Currency Indian Rupee.

Map not to scale

Fact In 1876, Jaipur was painted pink to welcome the then Prince of Wales Albert Edward, giving a distinctive appearance to the city.

Johari Bazaar is known for its fabulous collection of precious stones, gems and jewellery. Pick up a colourful bag or saree or gift yourself a handcrafted pair of mojris (shoes).

IndiGo to jaipur www.goindigo.in

19

OffBeat

On the Wild Side As the annual showers come to an end, India's green cover glistens brightest. We set off on an adventure into the wild to explore four of the country's beloved national parks and biosphere reserves.

Words Udit Sharma and Snigdha Bhattacharjee

20

October 2022

Images are for visual representation only

Did you know?

Valley of Flowers National Park

Where: Uttarakhand

Best time to visit: July/August to October.

Offering stunning views of the Himalayan peaks, the Valley of Flowers trek is one of the oldest and most sought-after expeditions in India.

It's a moderate trek but the mercury stays low and the trekking days are long. You can offer prayers at the highest gurudwara, Shri Hemkund Sahib, which is at a stone’s throw distance from the national park. The gurudwara sits by the glacial Hemkund Lake, painting a serene picture.

A blessed terrestrial paradise, the Valley of Flowers in Uttarakhand is home to rare Himalayan flora. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is tucked away in the western Himalayan region and is one of the two core parts of the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve. With plush meadows carpeted with endemic alpine flowers, including brahmakamal, the state flower of Uttarakhand, the valley is a natural haven. Perched high up in the Himalayas, it is criss-crossed by glacial rivers. Circled by snow-capped peaks, the park is also home to glaciers and pristine lakes.

It remains open only for a few months in a year.

Connect: Fly IndiGo to Dehradun and Pantnagar.

21

OffBeat

What's More?

Images are for visual representation only

For and adventure lover, the Great Nicobar Island is a paradise eagerly waiting to be explored. Take in the lush landscape, sit back and relax at its virgin beach, and enjoy fresh tender coconut water before heading out to the cool waves. Explore the colourful wonders of vibrant marine life.

This island is also known for indigenous tribes and unique limestone caves.

Where: Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

Great Nicobar Biosphere Reserve

The beautiful Great Best time to visit: Nicobar Island leaves visitors mesmerised with its October to February. luscious forest covers and rich fauna. The southernmost island of the Nicobar archipelago, it is home to unique and threatened tropical evergreen forest ecosystems. It includes two national parks - the Galathea National Park and Campbell Bay National Park. The Great Nicobar Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO-recognised zone, harbours impressive trekking trails and such rare animal species like the crab-eating Macaque, Nicobar tree shrew, dugong, Nicobar megapode, serpent eagle, saltwater crocodile, Connect: marine turtles, and python.

Fly IndiGo to Port Blair.

22

October 2022

The eastern lap of India embraces some of the most treasured experiences. Traverse to the pyramid-style domeshaped monuments in Sivasagar, or visit such natural marvels as the Hoollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary near Jorhat. Don’t miss out on the gorgeous tea plantations and click memories for your gram fans.

Where: Assam Best time to visit: November to February.

The massive expanse of the Kaziranga National Park is home to one of the world’s largest populations of the greater one-horned rhinoceros. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the park was established in the early 1900s, and is located on the bank of the Brahmaputra river, about 100 km from Jorhat. Much of the park is marshland interspersed with large pools bordered with reeds, elephant grass, trees and thickets. Explore the raw beauty of the wilderness on an elephant safari and seize your own moment of rendezvous with the one-horned rhinoceros.

Or you can take a 4X4 vehicle to explore the wonders of the animal kingdom.

Connect: Fly IndiGo to Dibrugarh, Guwahati, Silchar and Jorhat.

Images are for visual representation only

What's more?

Kaziranga National Park

23

What's more

Panna Biosphere Reserve A visit to the 'heart of India' is never complete till you explore the Panna Biosphere Reserve. The biosphere reserve, a UNESCO-recognised area, makes its way to every wildlife enthusiast's bucket list. Its verdant environs filled with spectacular waterfalls and the pristine blue waters of the Ken river is home to such rare species of flora and fauna as royal Bengal tiger, leopards, and jungle cats. Gear up to trek through the park and expect to get closer to nature. Don't be surprised to see birdwatchers trying to spot one of the approximate 200 avian species that call this park home. If you are lucky, you may spot gharials basking in the sun by the Ken river.

24

October 2022

Images are for visual representation only

In case you want to explore the world beyond the wild at Panna then the district has a lot to offer. The Ajaygarh Fort is home to the ruins of exquisite Jain temples.

Around 44 km away from Panna, stands the Khajuraho Group of Monuments, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is an architectural marvel dating back to the 10th-11th century, and one of the most visited tourist sites in India.

Where: Madhya Pradesh.

Connect: Fly IndiGo to Bhopal, Gwalior, Indore and Jabalpur.

Best time to visit: October to March.

To refer to the passenger charter introduced by the Ministry of Civil Aviation stating your rights, please contact our crew.

Skyline

Into the heart of Nilgiri Take some time off and rest in the lap of nature when you visit the Nilgiri Biosphere Nature Park at Anaikatti, Coimbatore.

Words Bindu Gopal Rao

26

October 2022

Straddling the states of Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Goa, Maharashtra and Gujarat, the Western Ghats is a green paradise. Believed to be older than the Himalayan mountain range, the Western Ghats is home to hundreds of globally-threatened animal and plant species.

But the crowning glory of the Western Ghats is the Nilgiri Biosphere Nature Park. The first of its kind in India established in 1986, the park boasts a host of protected areas, including Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Bandipur National Park, Nagarhole National Park, Mukurthi National Park and Silent Valley National Park.

The park is quite interactive, with trees identified with small signboards that describe their name and place of origin.

My exploration of a slice of this lush reserve begins at the ticket counter of Nilgiri Biosphere Nature Park at Thuvaipathy village, around 30 km from Coimbatore. Locals say that the nature park is home to indigenous tree species and boasts a butterfly park, among other attractions.

Upon entry, a rather large signboard grabs my attention. It reads, “Did you know a tree is worth Rs 1,39,75,840?”

27

For ichthyologists, the in-house aquarium is a major attraction. It boasts such fish species found in Anaikatti as the Asiatic snakehead, two-spot barb, metallic hill carp, Nilgiris garra and day's loach, etc.

The park has an extensive rainwater harvesting system as well as 25 checkdams to meet the year-round water requirement of the area.

It also has a 250-seater amphitheatre that screens films; a café that offers tea and snacks, and a nursery where you can buy saplings at a nominal cost.

My guide informs me that the reserve was established by the Coimbatore Zoological Park and Conservation Centre with the objective to protect, conserve and propagate threatened, endemic and endangered species of flora. It's a delight for botanists, scientists, nature lovers and photographers, who visit it throughout the year. Experts say the park has a germplasm bank of over 28,000 trees from 450 different species.. The park is a great introduction to the local flora and fauna and makes a strong case for conserving traditional variants of plants that are slowly fading away.

The section of the park with medicinal plant is quite interactive, with trees identified with small signboards that describe the name and place of origin in Tamil and Latin. I come across a tree whose resin is used to manufacture incense sticks and another whose leaves are used to polish ivory objects. There are also such endemic (to the Western Ghats) yet intriguing ones as the white baneberry, also known as doll's eyes, whose flowers open to resemble the eyes of a doll. I carry back memories of sniffing the pei ilavam tree, whose flowers exude a rotten odour that can cause headaches! There are trees whose leaves have a dual tone - green with silver, and with gold.

28

October 2022

Hire a guide, who will help you spot smaller animals and rare plants.

There are information boards across the park that make a walk here all the more enriching. One such board on pollinators makes an interesting observation – "one of three mouthfuls of food and drink we consume is made possible by pollinators". I come across a few turtles and am told that turtles are among the most ancient species on the Earth and is believed to have originated about 250 million years ago!

As I come to the end of my roughly 1.5 km insightful walk, I realise I will miss the pure oxygen and the soothing green. But I have refreshed my system enough till I return.

Meet the author

The cobbled pathway brings me to the vibrant butterfly park abuzz with the winged creatures. I catch a clear glimpse of only a handful under an overcast sky.

The park is dotted with a variety of nectar-producing plants to attract butterflies. An information board here clearly lists the differences between butterflies and moths, including the fact that one of the identifying traits of a moth is that it usually rests with its wings open!

IndiGo to Coimbatore www.goindigo.in

Bindu Gopal Rao is a freelance writer and photographer based in Bengaluru. Passionate about the environment, her interests include bird watching and looking for local nuances in any destination. You can follow her on Instagram (@bindugopalrao) and read her work on www.bindugopalrao.com

29

DuelAction

Duel Action Fasten your seat belts as we take you on a 360-degree ride through two destinations. There’s Amritsar, India, in one corner and Amsterdam, Netherlands, in another.

Amritsar

Amsterdam History lesson

Relive the history of India's struggle for Independence from the British rule at Jallianwala Bagh. The public garden is home to a memorial that commemorates the 1919 massacre of people gathered for a peaceful meeting on the day of Baisakhi. You can still find bullet holes on the walls of the park.

No matter how much you know about Anne Frank's story or have read her diary, a visit to the Anne Frank House is a must when in Amsterdam.

Turned into a museum, the house immaculately preserves the 'Secret Annex' where the 18-year-old girl hid with her family for two years during World War II and penned her famous diary.

Foodie tales Save your appetite for some local delicacies when you land in Amritsar. Be spoilt for choice when you grab a bite of the irresistible Amritsari kulcha served with a mouthwatering gravy made with spices and chickpea or a plateful of samosas, a deep-friend potato snack served with spicy mint chutney.

30

October 2022

Prepare to have your olfactory senses delighted with the city's culinary delights. Savour the unforgettable taste of bitterballen, a deep-fried meatball dish served with a dip, or broodje haring, a sandwich served with pickles and salt-cured herring which is a local favourite.

Heritage walks

A trip to the city can never be complete without a visit to the iconic Sri Harmandir Sahib or the Golden Temple. Built on a 67-ft of marble square, the temple welcomes pilgrims from all around the world. The langar (kitchen) here offers free food to around 20,000 people every day.

Get up close with the royals when you visit the Royal Palace near the Dam Square. The 350-year-old grand building once served as the City Hall before being transformed into a palace by Emperor Napoleon's brother, Louis Bonaparte. Its impressive architecture, gigantic chandeliers and marble flooring will leave you entranced.

Shopping galore Phulkari (a form of embroidery) clothing and dupattas, Patiala salwar-suits, juttis, papads (poppadom), vadi (sun-dried lentil paste savouries) and much more are found in markets across the city.

You can also purchase traditional handicrafts.

Indulge in some retail therapy when you are in the city.

Grab the latest collection of fashionwear including high street clothings, bags, shoes and many more from the numerous boutiques when you head down to Kalverstraat.

For nature lovers For bird watchers, Harike Wetland and Bird Sanctuary is nothing short of paradise. One of India's largest wetlands, it is located at the confluence of Beas and Sutlej rivers. During the migratory season, the sanctuary comes to life as birds arrive here from as far as Serbia and Europe.

Once a private park, Vondelpark is the city's favourite playground.

Beautifully landscaped, the park's picturesque rose garden, pond and blooming vistas make it the perfect hangout spot for an afternoon of relaxation.

Recommendation: Rent a bike and explore the storied bylanes of the holy city of Amritsar. When in Amsterdam, take your bicycle and head out to the picturesque cycling paths of Amsterdamse Bos.

31

NowBoarding

A journey to a desert paradise White sands, pristine water and beautiful dunes Ras Al Khaimah, the hidden gem of the United Arab Emirates, is nothing short of paradise.

Words Lee Grewal and Bhanu Uttam

Ras Al Khaimah is a not-so-explored tourist delight boasting over 7,000 years of fascinating history, traditions and culture.

Located about 45 minutes away from Dubai, this city promises an authentic and easilyaccessible Arabian experience. The delights include year-round sunshine, pristine beaches, lush mangrove trees and terracotta dunes, as well as fertile, green oases and the dramatic, awe-inspiring vistas of the majestic Hajar mountains, including the UAE’s highest mountain peak, Jebel Jais. It’s the gateway to an all-terrain holiday for adrenaline-inspired

32

October 2022

activities, ancient cultural tours or a tranquil retreat into nature.

River deep-mountain high The Jebel Jais Mountain peak reaches an impressive height of 1,934 m and forms a part of the Hajar range, which extends from Ras Al Khaimah to the Musandam Peninsula on the north-eastern side of Oman. The dramatic mountainscape is home to the Jais Adventure Park that offers adrenalinepumping, awe-inspiring and cloud-piercing adventures and experiences. It serves as

Meet the authors

IndiGo to Ras Al Khaimah www.goindigo.in

Bhanu Uttam and Lee Grewal are two creative women with a curiosity for life.

They love seeking new adventures and sharing them with the world through their stories and photographs.

To know more, follow them on www.adventureinourteacups.com

the gateway to such exploits as the Jais Viewing Deck Park, the Jais Flight (the world’s longest zipline), the Jais Sky Tour (a series of six exhilarating ziplines) and the Jais Sledder (the region’s longest toboggan ride). Keep some time in hand to visit the region’s first Bear Grylls camp, located on Jebel Jais. It offers a range of thrilling instructor-led survival courses and activities such as mountain biking, hiking, abseiling and rock climbing.

If you wish to take things slow, find your calm at the 1484 by Puro, UAE's highest restaurant located at the top of the Jebel Jais.

Across the skies As travellers, sightseeing by air is always a majestic way to capture the beauty of a

The amber desert is simply magical and home to the stories of the Bedouins.

33

the most enchanting ways to trace these stories is at Bedouin-inspired camps. Enjoy traditional food and music with local families as thin plumes of smoke rise from campfires into the pink of the setting sun.

landscape. When that includes the Persian Gulf, huddles of pink flamingos and soaring mountains, it’s a breathtaking experience.

Best experienced on board a two-seater plane or gyroplane, that takes you beyond the terracotta dunes that are synonymous with Ras Al Khaimah.

Sand and sea The backdrop to Ras Al Khaimah is truly an oasis in the Arabian desert. Several kilometres of mesmerising coastline, crisp sandy beaches to tropical green mangroves, creeks and shifting sand hills. The amber desert is simply magical and home to stories of the Bedouins, whose footsteps have crossed the sands for thousands of years. One of

34

October 2022

Like most of the region’s tourist options, tranquillity is coupled with adventure. Here, you can head beyond the desert camp for a day exploring the dunes by a buggy, a quad bike or a 4x4 vehicle. If you’re soaking in the nomadic cultural experience, take a camel ride across the sand or watch the highlycharged camel races. To experience Ras Al Khaimah’s unique terracotta desert, a visit to the Al Wadi Equestrian Center is a must.

It offers unrivalled horse and camel riding experiences across the rolling dunes.

The coastline of Ras Al Khaimah is renowned for its white sand and pristine waters. Dotted with hotels and glamping sites by the sea, it’s a short walk to both the mangroves and the water. Kayak along the shrubby dense mango plantations, quietly watching the pale pink flamingos as you meander the

Travel tips Ras Al Khaimah is an approximate 45-min-drive away from Dubai.

The best time to visit is between October and May.

waterways. The Flamingo Beach is a favourite hangout spot for beach-goers, children and water sports enthusiasts.

City of culture Folding back the layers of Arabian culture and peering into its mystical past reveals a handful of heritage sites around Ras Al Khaimah. The Mohammed Bin Salem Mosque has undergone recent restorations, revitalising this architectural gem. Excavations uncovered an earlier mosque, dating back to the 18th century but today it stands as a modern homage not just to the faithful, but also to the desert it rises from. The Dhayah Fort is the only hill fort remaining in the UAE. Dating back to the late Bronze Age, this sandcoloured mud-brick fortress is perched on the mountainside from where the views of both the arid ranges and the fertile date palms are spectacular. The ancient people of the region lived off the sea, with pearl farming being an essential trade. The village of Al Jazeera Al Hamra is the only remaining historical pearling village in the Gulf region. Walking through the crumbling ruins gives a glimpse into the life of this ancient region.

The ancient people of the region lived off the sea, with pearl farming being an essential occupation.

History and heritage For a slice of the nation's history visit the region’s first cultured pearl farm, Suwaidi Pearls. Years before the discovery of oil in the Arabian Gulf, pearling was the lifeblood of the local community and UAE’s main source of wealth. Dating back to the 12th and 13th centuries, the Al Suwaidi family has been intrinsically linked to the history of pearling in the Gulf region. Today, it's the nation’s only remaining pearl farm that provides locally sourced pearls to jewellers across the world.

For a dramatic finish to your trip, ride a hot air balloon tethered to a rooftop platform in the city centre. Floating 30 m up in the air, these 10-minute escapes are a superb way to take in aerial views of this gem in the UAE.

35

MyCity MyWay

Namita Thapar

Inspirations from an entrepreneur Driven, hardworking and honest, Namita Thapar, the executive director of Emcure Pharmaceuticals, believes in accepting oneself. The recipient of various prestigious corporate honours, she is a voice to reckon with among Indian women entrepreneurs.

She was one of the most popular sharks on the television reality show, Shark Tank India Season 1, where she evaluated hundreds of business ideas and funded 25 of them. She has captured lessons from her entrepreneurial journey and the show in her debut book The Dolphin and the Shark: Stories on Entrepreneurship.

Excerpts from a conversation:

36

October 2022

Turning point "The turning point in my career was when I decided to head the India business of Emcure Pharmaceuticals, after years of being in Finance. I realised this was my true calling and I should have transitioned to sales and marketing a lot sooner!"

Shark Tank takeaways "I learnt a lot more from the show's participants than I taught them. Their hunger and humility touched me. But what was most outstanding was the realisation that every Indian, regardless of age, education or the city he/she belongs to,

An entrepreneur, author and a mentor – Namita Thapar wears many hats. One of the most popular sharks on the TV reality show Shark Tank India, she talks to us about her hometown Pune, her success mantra and her debut book.

Published by Penguin Random House India

sized company like Emcure, I thought my learnings on how we have built brands could help others. I also wanted to talk about the lessons I learnt in my journey as a business head – the importance of dissent at the workplace, mentoring, establishing networks and vulnerabilities as a leader. I needed to share my Shark Tank experiences as well. I wrote more than 50,000 words in four weeks, every word penned by me and coming straight from my heart!

has big dreams. All they need is mentorship and capital. We need to boost the start-up ecosystem in our country further so that more of these ideas can be turned into reality."

Inspiration for the book "I wanted a platform to share my learnings.

After having successfully led a substantial-

To be successful, there are times when aggression is required and times when empathy becomes most critical. I have learnt to trust my inner voice; it's my best teacher. Now I use that voice to guide me in striking a balance between aggression and empathy."

Success mantra "Be yourself and the world will adjust to your ways. We should have the courage to show our true selves, including our flaws and setbacks. This will help banish taboos and give hope to others who are struggling with similar challenges."

37

Entrepreneur

briefing

I am a homebody and love travelling to quieter places, either in the mountains or by the sea, where I can be close to nature and relax with a book and my thoughts.

In between my busy work and travel schedule, I get time for a vacation once or twice in a year.

Favourite holiday destinations

Pune

My favourites are Switzerland, Goa and Dehradun.

38

Gastronome I love visiting Vaishali and have been going to this restaurant for years. I relish the South Indian menu it offers. In fact, I have tried and love almost everything on the menu!

My hometown Pune is the hub of education, culture and good food.

Pune favs

October 2022

I have several favourite memories in my most favourite city Pune - Sawai Gandharva Music Festival, Dagdusheth Ganpati Mandir, trekking at Parvati Tekdi, delicious food joints like Supreme Pav Bhaji, Chitale Bandhu, Bedekar Misal, Marzorin Sandwiches, Kayani Bakery, the list is never-ending!

Viewpoint

5

One Place

Ways

IndiGo to Bangkok and Phuket www.goindigo.in

Thailand With beautiful coastlines, colourful corals, rich heritage and culture, Thailand is a poster child of modernity and natural beauty.

Ayutthaya Historical Park

Steeped in history, Ayutthaya was once a glorious city that flourished from the 14th to the 18th century. The historical park consists of 425 archaeological sites. In 1991, the Ayutthaya Historical Park was declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with the Sukhothai Historical Park.

Similan Islands

Embark on an underwater adventure at the Similan Islands. Apart from the white sandy beaches caressed by sparkling turquoise blue waters, the islands offer a variety of snorkeling spots. Enjoy its treasured colourful corals and rare collection of marine life and do not miss out on stunning sunset vistas from the viewing point at Koh Miang.

History

2

Adventure Chiang Mai

Adventure seekers should head to Chiang Mai. A beautiful blend of nature and culture, the city is home to incredible panoramic sights and adventures.

Take a stroll to reach Doi Inthanon, the highest point of Thailand or choose to visit various species of plants at the Queen Sirikit Botanical Garden and Rajapruek Royal Park

Sukhothai Historical Park

The Sukhothai Historical Park is located right opposite the Ramkhamhaeng National Museum. There are several interesting sites inside the park area, including the Wat Maha That, a temple that is situated at the center of the historical park. Inside the temple is the grand pagoda that is surrounded by eight other pagodas, giving it an appearance of a lotus.

40

October 2022

Ban Khun Mae, Bangkok

The best way to understand a culture is through its food. While strolling through the Siam Square area do visit Ban Khun Mae to have savour some authentic Thai cuisine. Relish the taste of shrimp spring rolls, chicken satay, crab fried rice and wash it down with a glass of Thai iced milk tea.

3

The Grand Palace, Bangkok

Bangkok's Grand Palace is an architectural masterpiece, which was the former residence of rulers from the Rattanakosin Kingdom. The grand palace is divided into two main zones - the Temple of the Emerald Buddha and the royal residence.

heritage

4

No.9 2nd Restaurant, Phuket

This impressive restaurant in Phuket offers a creative and an unforgettably delicious mix of Thai, Japanese and Western fare. Do try the mouthwatering garlic and pepper lobster or the delectable fried whole fish with sweet and sour sauce.

Wat Pho, Bangkok

One of the country's ancient temples, Wat Pho attracts tourists from around the world.

Once a royal temple to King Rama I, the temple's 46-ft reclining idol of Lord Buddha is one of the largest such in Bangkok. The Lord's feet are beautifully inlaid with motherof-pearl and carved with holy signs.

5

food

Chillva Market, Phuket

Immerse yourself in the culture of the city with a visit to the Chillva Market. This night retail paradise exudes an exotic vibe to its visitors as they make their way through its numerous shops. Grab the latest collection of colourful clothings, awesome shoes and sunglasses while swaying to the rhythms from the live music from the nearby bars and pubs.

shopping Chatuchak Weekend Market, Bangkok

When in Bangkok, tick off your shopping list at the sprawling Chatuchak Weekend Market. The open-air market is a paradise for shoppers. Be spoilt by the choices of vibrant clothes, the artisinal kohn masks and old-school Thai toys. In case you are hungry while shopping, enjoy the treats from the food court.

41

Vignette

Autumn Romance

Revel in the magic of the beautiful fall sun while watching the leaves change colours.

As nature prepares for the winters, we bring you some of the most stunning landscapes from around the world.

The famous Lake Melissani in the Greek island of Kefalonia draped in autumn colours. Discovered in 1951, it is also known as the Melissani Cave and these caves are reported to be 16,000 to 20,000 years old.

An aerial view of the former Tegernsee monastery in Bavaria, Germany. The region looks stunning in autumn. Opt to drive around for the best views.

The idyllic Dolomites mountains in South Tyrol, Italy, in shades of autumn.

Photographers capture the beautiful Patagonia landscape of the Andes mountain range and lake at the Torres del Paine National Park, Chile.

Autumn in full bloom at Deoria Tal lake in Uttarakhand.

The Golden Glory AceCorner

Abhinav Bindra

"I ended up shooting the best 10 shots in my life. The way I responded, the timing, the technique..."

Abhinav Bindra recalls his 2008 Olympic Gold medalwinning performance.

46

October 2022

Ace shooter Abhinav Bindra talks about his life as a sportsperson, the need to upgrade India's sporting ecosystem and the impact of an Olympic win on youngsters.

Abhinav Bindra, the golden boy of Indian athletics, will always be known as India's first individual Gold medallist at the Olympics.

The Gold medal victory in the men's 10 m air rifle event at the 2008 Beijing Olympics will always be considered as the crowning moment in Bindra's illustrious sporting career.

Bestowed with the Padma Bhushan in 2009, Bindra expresses that an athlete’s shelf life is not very long. "Athletes today are encouraged to lead dual careers. When you are an athlete or a high achiever, you are considered to be superhuman, almost like an action figure from a movie, and are perceived to be protected by an armour or shield. But in reality, an athlete is more vulnerable because our performance is scrutinised day in and day out," he explains.

This is why many sportpersons are now dedicating their time to develop skills beyond the world of sports. "These skills will

"When you are an athlete or a high achiever – you are considered to be superhuman, almost like an action figure."

help them develop a livelihood that may not be directly linked to sports," he adds. The Olympian credits his education in Business Studies for enabling him to take up the role as the CEO of Abhinav Futuristics Private Limited, an organisation that works to bring science and technology into the sport and healthcare sectors.

Hometown love Born on September 28, 1982, in Dehradun, Bindra has many memories associated with the city. “I remember hanging out at local cafes and also the famous Robber's Cave in Dehradun," he recalls. Though, equally close to his heart are the twin cities of Chandigarh-Mohali, where he currently resides. "Chandigarh is a beautifullyplanned city and I’ve hung out at the usual spots - the Rock Garden, the Sukhna Lake and its buzzing markets. As I’m not an extrovert and prefer spending time with my family and close friends, my daily schedule for the last many years in Mohali has been travelling between my home and office,” says the shooter.

Life after sports The Olympic champion began his sporting journey after being inspired by shooters he saw on television. He participated in the 1998 Commonwealth Games as a 15 year old and then travelled to the Sydney Olympics in 2000 as the youngest Indian participant.

And the rest is history. Today, his initiative - the Abhinav Bindra Foundation educates, inspires and helps budding athletes. The foundation's primary focus is towards sport science and its implementation in India. “I spend most of my time working on giving back to the community through the Abhinav Bindra Foundation Trust. We recently partnered with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the Government of Odisha to implement the Olympic Values Education Programme (OVEP) in schools.

The programme aims to disseminate a value-based curriculum to shape children’s characters and help them become active,

47

"The sporting ecosystem in India needs more conversations and more education on what it takes to create a safe space for athletes to pursue a sport, especially at the grassroot level." healthy and responsible citizens. We strive to achieve excellence in sports by ensuring that the Global Best Practices are made available to all. The foundation identifies ways to educate, inspire and help the Indian sporting ecosystem. Since the inception of these activities, over four years ago, we have been able to influence the lives of Olympic effect over 2,000 athletes in more than six states Recently, track-and-field star Neeraj Chopra across the country,” says Bindra. and Bindra spoke about the impact of their Olympic wins on youngsters in India. Bindra Life inspirations and Chopra are the only ones to have He has even released his autobiography won individual gold medals at the titled A Shot at History: My Obsessive Summer Games.

Journey to Olympic Gold detailing his Bindra said: "The interest level in sports training methods and constant drive that [after Chopra’s Olympic Gold] is immense. eventually landed him where no Indian So many young kids are getting inspired." had gone before. “Sporting excellence He recalled he had witnessed the same level has to be holistic. We have to promote of enthusiasm across the country when he a culture that supports physical, mental won the 10 m air rifle event at the Beijing and technical development that benefits Olympics. "When we used to have shooting athletes. The sporting ecosystem in India nationals before 2008, around 200 needs to have more conversations and aspirants used to show up. Today around more education on what it takes to create 10,000 take part," he says. a safe space for athletes to pursue a sport, especially at the grassroot level. Our Mental Wellness programmes are designed to help sensitise athletes, coaches and the rest of the sporting ecosystem towards mental health, reflect on its link to peak performance and how they can incorporate best practices into their day-to-day lives," says the Gold medallist.

48

October 2022

Green Intentions

The colour of joy ...is green. This festive season let's think sustainable.

Durga Puja Even as we welcome Goddess Durga to our homes and hearts this year, let's also think about how to protect our environment from the after effects of a festival.

Idol makers are shifting to sustainable materials like clay and vegetable dyes.

Plastic decorations are being replaced with plant-based ones.

In several cities across India, idols are being immersed in smaller water bodies to protect rivers from pollution.

Dussehra and Diwali Prepare for a greener Dussehra and Diwali with the use of energy saving lights and replacing plastic with biodegradable products.

Be creative by using waste material in the effigies on Dussehra. Some homes are planning to dismantle the effigies instead of burning them.

Post a festival, collect and donate the biodegradable

waste to any local NGO that is recycling them.

If you can, create upcycled clothes, rather than buying new ones.

Replace the traditional firecrackers and diyas with the new-age seed cracker (beej patakha) and plantable diyas.

Take an out-of-the-box approach to gifting. Gift airpurifying plants, homemade snacks and goodies to reinvent Diwali traditions.

Corporate Social Responsibility - IndiGoReach

Celebrating International Day of Rural Women Did you know, October 15th is globally observed as International Day of Rural Women? In India, this day is marked as the Rashtriya Mahila Kisan Diwas to recognise the contribution of women farmers in various aspects of agriculture.

these women are visionaries who strive to make a difference in their lives. Our initiatives reach out to about 55,000* women in rural India and support them in farming and allied activities.

They do it all, have a look!

For IndiGoReach, women empowerment is a key pillar, where we focus on providing rural women with opportunities to enhance their income generating opportunities and help them emerge as key change agents in the community. Each of

*as of March 2022.

For more details about IndiGoReach programs please visit our website: https://www.goindigo. in/csr/women-empowerment-indigo-shakti.html

Menu

We raised the bar While some raise a glass to life, here's a happy selection of duty-free alcohol to raise a bottle to. Or two, we don't judge. Get your hands on these classics to raise the spirits of any and every occasion.

Buy on board These products are available on your flight, and not on ground.

Please contact our cabin crew if you wish to purchase them.

One of the best known vodkas, Absolut Blue is famed for its full bodied and complex, yet smooth and distinct flavour.

It not only lights up taste buds but also any occasion, making it a party favourite!

Should you give this a shot? Absolut-ly!

Sky Price

USD 21 100cl

The name is Walker... Johnnie Walker. The signature square bottles. Coloured labels distinguishing the blends. Complex flavours. No wonder it’s been called “the Savoy, the Everest of deluxe whiskies”.

Sky Price

USD 38 100cl

Pour yourself a glass of tradition with the iconic Johnnie Walker Double Black. With its naturally smoked flavour and expert blend, this is one whisky that will keep you coming back year after year.

Sky Price

USD 50 100cl

Consumption of duty-free liquor in the aircraft is strictly prohibited. Duty-free liquor will be handed just before landing. Duty-free liquor allowances- Bangkok: One litre of liquor; Dubai: Four litres of spirit; Muscat: Two litres/two bottles of liquor per family, if imported by a Non-Muslim; Singapore: Free import of wines, spirits and beer not exceeding one litre each by passengers of 18 years of age and above.

Disclaimer: Only on selected international flights.