Tag: Adventure Travel

Special Occasion

Abu Simbel Sun Festival: When History Meets the Sun

Tanisha Cardozo

The Abu Simbel Sun Festival is one of the most fascinating examples of how ancient engineering and natural phenomena can come together to create something truly timeless. Held at the iconic Abu Simbel Temples in southern Egypt, this extraordinary event continues to captivate visitors from around the world, offering a rare glimpse into the brilliance of ancient Egyptian civilization.

The festival is closely tied to the legacy of Ramses II, one of Egypt’s most powerful pharaohs. It is celebrated twice a year, on February 22 and October 22, marking what are believed to be his coronation day and birthday. On these mornings, just after sunrise, a beam of sunlight travels through the temple’s long corridor and reaches the inner sanctuary, illuminating three of the four seated statues—those of Ramses II and the gods Amun and Ra. Interestingly, the fourth statue, representing Ptah, remains in shadow, symbolizing his association with the underworld.

This alignment is far more than a visual spectacle. It reflects the extraordinary precision of ancient Egyptian architects, who designed the temple so accurately that the sunlight reaches the sanctuary on these exact days each year. The illumination of Ramses II alongside the gods was also deeply symbolic, reinforcing his divine status and legitimizing his rule in the eyes of his people.

Originally, the phenomenon occurred on February 21 and October 21, but the dates shifted slightly after the temples were relocated in the 1960s to protect them from the rising waters caused by the Aswan High Dam. Despite this shift, the spectacle remains just as awe-inspiring, continuing a tradition that has endured for over 3,200 years.

Beyond the solar event itself, the festival transforms the area into a vibrant cultural celebration. Visitors can witness traditional Nubian music and dance performances, lively processions, and a festive atmosphere filled with local energy and heritage. As the day transitions into evening, sound and light shows illuminate the temples, adding another layer of drama to the experience.

Food also plays a central role in the festivities, with bustling markets offering a taste of Egyptian cuisine. Among the highlights is koshari, the country’s beloved national dish, combining lentils, rice, pasta, chickpeas, and a rich tomato sauce—simple yet unforgettable in flavor.

For travelers, experiencing the Abu Simbel Sun Festival requires careful planning. Staying close to the site is essential to catch the early morning phenomenon, and bookings must often be made well in advance due to the influx of visitors. Whether arriving by road or air, the journey is well worth the effort for a chance to witness one of the world’s most enduring and meaningful spectacles.

Ultimately, the Abu Simbel Sun Festival is not just an event—it is a powerful reminder of humanity’s ability to blend science, spirituality, and art into something that transcends time.

Travel

Goa to Nepal: 5 Riders, 10 States, 1 Country, and 6,185 km of Brotherhood on Wheels

Tanisha Cardozo

What began as a dream two years ago finally roared to life as five bikers from Goa set out on a 6,185-kilometre journey that took them through 10 Indian states and into the heart of Nepal. Their route took them through Karnataka, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and finally across the border to Nepal, where they explored the beautiful cities of Kathmandu and Pokhara.

The riders — Yogesh Redkar from Margao, Manoj Pujari from Porvorim, Anthony D’Souza from Calangute, Francis Fernandez, and Pravin Kunkolkar from Old Goa — are no strangers to extreme long-distance travel. Collectively, they’ve completed the Goa to Leh-Ladakh ride three times, an adventure that would intimidate most. But for this group, the Nepal ride was something special. It was their long-standing dream, one meticulously planned and eagerly awaited.

What made this ride different was not just the distance or terrain but the emotion attached to it. After years of preparation, logistical planning, and aligning schedules, they finally hit the road — and never looked back. Every kilometre clocked was a testament to their bond, discipline, and the unbreakable thrill of freedom on two wheels.

Kathmandu welcomed them with spiritual calm, and Pokhara dazzled with its natural charm, offering them both reflection and celebration after days of navigating highways, hills, and borders. Along the way, they carried not just gear and essentials, but stories, laughter, and memories that will last a lifetime.

For these five Goan bikers, the ride to Nepal was more than just a milestone. It was proof that no dream is too distant when you have the right companions and the courage to chase it down, one kilometre at a time.

#TravelwithAllycaral 👒

Goa Tourism to Showcase “Sunshine and More in Goa” at OTDYKH Leisure 2025 in Moscow

Tanisha Cardozo

Goa Tourism is taking the global stage once again, as it prepares to participate in OTDYKH Leisure 2025—one of the largest international travel and tourism exhibitions. The event will take place from 10th to 12th September at the Timiryazev Exhibition Center in Moscow, Russia. This year, Goa Tourism will present the theme “Sunshine and More in Goa” at Pavilion B13, inviting global audiences to experience the richness and diversity of India’s most beloved coastal destination.

Speaking ahead of the event, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, emphasized Goa’s positioning as a holistic and globally attractive destination. “Goa has always been one of the most sought-after destinations for international travelers, and our presence at OTDYKH Leisure 2025 is another step towards strengthening Goa’s global footprint. Through the theme ‘Sunshine and More in Goa,’ we want to showcase the multifaceted experiences our state offers, from beaches to hinterlands, from wellness retreats to cultural richness. Our focus is on attracting quality tourism, building meaningful collaborations, and positioning Goa as a responsible, world-class destination.”

Director of Tourism, Shri Kedar Naik, also noted the importance of the platform: “OTDYKH Leisure is a significant platform to connect with international travel trade stakeholders and potential visitors. At the Goa Pavilion, we will be highlighting not just the leisure aspect of Goa but also our forward-looking initiatives in areas like wellness, heritage, adventure, and community tourism. This participation provides an opportunity to emphasize Goa’s position as a destination that celebrates culture, sustainability, and authentic travel experiences.”

Goa’s presentation at the exhibition will go far beyond sun and sand. Visitors to the pavilion will get to explore the state’s pristine beaches, vibrant hinterlands, luxury resorts, spiritual and wellness getaways, immersive heritage trails, adrenaline-filled adventure experiences, and community-led tourism initiatives. It’s all part of Goa’s evolving narrative as a year-round destination for leisure, business, and mindful travel.

With the global spotlight increasingly shifting toward regenerative tourism and eco-conscious travel, Goa Tourism’s showcase will also highlight the state’s ongoing work in preserving natural ecosystems, empowering local communities, and encouraging responsible travel practices. By participating in OTDYKH Leisure 2025, Goa aims not only to promote its attractions but also to strengthen international partnerships, encourage investments, and open doors to a new era of tourism that values people, planet, and authentic experiences.

Goa Tourism warmly invites travel professionals, investors, stakeholders, and global travelers to visit the Goa Pavilion – B13 and experience the true spirit of “Sunshine and More in Goa.”