Voyager Travel Bytes – January 2026 Edition

 

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Dear Friends,

As a new year unfolds, January invites us to travel with renewed curiosity, anticipation, and wonder. This month’s edition journeys through landscapes shaped by time, stories whispered by heritage, and experiences that linger long after the road ends—reminding us that travel, at its finest, is both discovery and quiet reflection.

The month of January ushers in a radiant season of celebrations and festivals that India is so deeply synonymous with. It marks the time of harvest—a moment to pause, reflect, and express gratitude for nature’s abundant bounty. Across the country, this spirit unfolds in many hues: the skies of Gujarat come alive with vibrant kites during Uttarayan, the warmth of Magh Bihu fills homes and fields in Assam, while Makar Sankranti, Lohri, Pongal, and countless other traditions echo a shared rhythm of renewal, joy, and thanksgiving. January also holds profound national significance as India celebrates its Republic Day on the 26th.It commemorates the adoption of the Constitution and the ideals of democracy, unity, and justice. The nation marks the day with pride, pageantry, and a renewed faith in its republican spirit.

January 12 marks the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda, a towering thinker who awakened India’s spiritual and national consciousness. The day is observed as National Youth Day, inspiring generations with his call for strength, service, and self-belief. His timeless message continues to guide India toward character, courage, and compassion.

A thousand years ago, in January 1026, the great Somnath Temple was ransacked and desecrated by the invading forces of Mahmud of Ghazni. In poignant contrast, the year 2026 marks seventy-five years since the consecration of the rebuilt Somnath Temple—an enduring symbol of resilience and renewal. For those drawn to the temple’s extraordinary history and saga, Somanatha: The Eternal Shrine by K. M. Munshi is a compelling and essential read.

In this edition, we also take you to the quiet seaside town of Mulki, nestled gently between the well-known coastal cities of Mangalore and Udupi. Unassuming at first glance, Mulki has steadily carved a distinct identity of its own, emerging as the surfing capital of India—where sunlit shores, rolling waves, and a relaxed coastal rhythm invite both adventure and unhurried discovery.

As January unfolds with its many stories of celebration, remembrance, and renewal, we invite you to journey through this edition at a gentle, reflective pace. May these pages inspire you to travel with curiosity, gratitude, and a deeper sense of connection to the world around you.

Tracing Swami Vivekananda’s Footsteps in Uttarakhand

Vivekananda Trail in Uttarakhand

Few know that it was at Kakrighat, in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, that Swami Vivekananda is believed to have first glimpsed the eternal truth. Deeply drawn to the Himalayan landscapes of Uttarakhand, he spent significant time there during his early years as a wandering monk. In this feature, we retrace the footsteps of the great visionary across the mountains that shaped his spiritual journey.
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Highlights

  • Kakrighat
  • Mayawati Ashram
  • Almora
  • Lohaghat

The Incredible Saga of Somnath

Somnath Shiva Temple - Temples Of India | Ancient Indian Temples

The Somnath Temple stands as a powerful testament to the resilience of India and the enduring spirit of its culture. Through centuries marked by destruction and rebuilding, Somnath has risen time and again, refusing to fade into history. Each reconstruction affirmed the nation’s resolve to preserve its civilisational memory, faith, and artistic heritage. More than a place of worship, the temple embodies continuity—the idea that India’s cultural soul cannot be erased by force or time. Set against the Arabian Sea, Somnath endures as a symbol of renewal, strength, and an unbroken cultural legacy.

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Highlights

  • Legends and Myths
  • Somnath Jyotirlinga
  • History
  • Other Interesting Facts

How Well Do You Know The Indian Republic?

Republic Day Quiz On India (With Answers)

Republic Day is not just a celebration of our Constitution—it is a reminder of India’s journey as a proud, democratic nation. This Republic Day, test your knowledge and rediscover the stories, symbols, and milestones that shaped our republic through an engaging quiz. From the making of the Constitution to iconic leaders, historic moments, and lesser-known facts, the quiz invites us to learn, reflect, and celebrate together. Whether you are a history enthusiast or simply curious, join in to challenge yourself, spark conversations, and deepen your connection with India’s rich democratic legacy.

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Highlights

  • 99 Questions
  • Answers
  • Test and Knowledge enhancement

Maa Danteshwari Temple Jagdalpur

Danteshwari Mandir Jagdalpur

Maa Danteshwari Temple in Jagdalpur is a revered shrine that reflects the deep-rooted faith and cultural heritage of the Bastar region. Dedicated to Goddess Danteshwari, the presiding deity of Bastar, the temple is modest in scale yet powerful in spiritual presence. It serves as an important center of worship for locals and devotees alike, especially during the world-famous Bastar Dussehra, when rituals and processions begin from here. Steeped in tradition and devotion, the Jagdalpur temple stands as a living link between tribal customs, Shakti worship, and the region’s enduring spiritual legacy.

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Highlights

  • About the temple
  • Inside the sanctum
  • Visiting the temple

Riding The Waves In Mulki

Mulki Surfing: India’s Best & #1 Surfing Spot

In Mulki, the sea speaks in rolling rhythms, and surfers listen with quiet reverence. At dawn, boards skim across silver waters as the sun lifts the horizon into gold. Waves rise and fall like breath, carrying both thrill and stillness in their flow. Here, time loosens its grip—salt on skin, wind in hair, balance found between surrender and control. Mulki’s shores offer more than sport; they offer communion with the ocean, where each ride becomes a fleeting poem written in water, foam, and light.

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Highlights

  • Mulki – Surfing Capital
  • Learning The Waves
  • Communing with the surf and sand

Exciting Bengaluru Getaways – Pick Yours Now!
Day Trips From Bengaluru

We are excited to bring you a selection of customised trips, perfect for exploring the rich heritage and history around Bengaluru:

  • Heritage Walk in Bengaluru 
  • A Day Trip to Somanathapura – Marvel at the intricate beauty of the Chennakesava Temple
  • A Day Trip to Belur-Halebidu – Discover the splendour of Hoysala architecture

We would love to hear from you! Write to us at imvoyager18@gmail.com and let us know:

  • Which trip would you like to join
  • Your convenient dates with 2–3 date options

Let’s plan your perfect heritage experience together!

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Latest Travel News That You Must Know

Latest travel News

  • Aadhaar booking hours extended for IRCTC tickets
  • 39th Surajkund International Crafts Mela 2026 Announced
  • Early USA Visa slots open for FIFA World Cup 2026
  • Wings India 2026 will be held in Hyderabad from Jan 28–31, bringing global aviation leaders to boost air connectivity across India.
  • New Amrit Bharat Express routes have been launched, improving long-distance rail connectivity across North East, East, and South India.
  • Frontier Airlines will launch 23 new routes in 2026, expanding affordable travel options across the U.S. and Mexico.
  • India has extended e-Tourist Visa access to 166 countries, simplifying travel for international visitors.
  • LOT Polish Airlines will add new year-round European routes in 2026, connecting Krakow with Rome, Barcelona, and Madrid.
  • Shannon Airport has announced five new summer 2026 routes, supported by a €40 million infrastructure upgrade.
  • Riyadh will host Routes World 2026, shaping future global air routes and tourism connectivity.

Our Video You May Like To Watch

Tracing Swami Vivekananda's Footsteps In Kumaon VTB Jan 2026
Tracing Swami Vivekananda’s Footsteps In Kumaon

If you would like to be featured in our upcoming newsletter or have any questions, please email us at: imvoyager18@gmail.com

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Warm regards
Sandy & Vyjay
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