Travel Secrets Nov-Dec 2015 | Page 40

#321 Lonar Crater Lake, Buldhana, Maharashtra From: Our Correspondent Nirav Shah Imagine how awesome it would feel to trek inside a crater formed when a meteorite (yes, from outer space) rammed into Planet Earth thousands of years ago. Add to this the fact that you can explore 4-5 ancient Hindu temples on the base of the crater, some in ruins while others having ornate sculptures; but all of them steeped in Indian folk lore. Complement that with the excitement one feels when circumambulating a lake and its peripheral forest that is rich in flora and fauna. You can experience all these three in one when you visit one of Maharashtra’s best-kept secrets: the Lonar Crater Lake in the Buldhana district of Maharashtra. The nearest railhead and airport is Aurangabad, from where getting to Lonar takes about four hours. Exploring the crater itself requires anywhere between 4- 8 hours, depending on the ground you want to cover. Winter (October-February) might be the best time to visit to escape the debilitating summer temperatures. So, I hope you visit Lonar this winter, for a complete astronomical, geological and historical experience! 40  Travel Secrets November-December 2015 #322 Seville, Spain From: travel blogger Adam Groffman (www.travelsofadam.com) The capital of Andalusia in southern Spain, Seville is the country’s 3rd largest city— but it feels like a small town. Besides being an affordable destination, Seville also has a huge culinary scene with some of Spain’s best foods and restaurants. It’s best to visit in April, during the Sevilla Feria - a colourful festival when locals dress up in traditional clothes for what could almost be described as the “Octoberfest of Spain.” Imagine a carnival atmosphere, lots of food and drinking - and fancy Flamenco-style clothing.