HOME Travel Guide Common Sense Travel
decorative font style

Polaroid of the Week: Blessed by Lakshmi, the Sacred Temple Elephant in Hampi, India

Polaroid of the Week: Blessed by Lakshmi, the Sacred Temple Elephant in Hampi, IndiaHampi, nestled amid the ruins of the Vijayanagara Empire's ancient capital, stands as one of India's most revered religious sites. Dozens of historic Hindu temples span several miles, holding significance for Hindus comparable to Mecca for Muslims—a must-visit pilgrimage destination at least once in a lifetime. Pilgrims arrive daily from across the country. The Virupaksha Temple, Hampi's oldest, is uniquely home to its own temple elephant.

Named Lakshmi, she bestows blessings on devotees by gently placing her trunk on their heads. Watching this majestic, gentle giant interact was truly captivating. We were fortunate to witness her extended river bath, lovingly tended by caretakers and local villagers who share the waters for their daily routines.

She seemed to relish the bath, yet seeing her stand patiently for hours daily in the temple raised a poignant question: Does she find fulfillment in her sacred duties, or does she long for the freedom of the jungle?


Tourist Attraction
  • Polaroid of the Week: Serene Canal Stroll in Amsterdam

    I’ve launched my European train adventure, and the first rides were exceptional. My inaugural journey whisked me from Berlin to Amsterdam in under seven hours—a city I’ve explored multiple times, though my last visit was over a decade ago. With rave reviews of its beauty and my hazy memories, I spontaneously included it in my Euro train itinerary. Amsterdam’s distinctive charm captivated me instantly upon arrival: its iconic canals, legions of bicycles, stunning 17th-century merchant houses wi

  • Polaroid of the Week: Sunny Beach Day in Brighton, England

    Rather than sharing another Polaroid from Berlin, Ive chosen to highlight my current spot: Brighton, England, where Im spending much of this week. After visiting for Brighton Pride last summer, I never imagined returning so soon—travels often surprise me! (Recall my unexpected Amazon adventure in March? No plans for that either.)Just last week, a beach day in Brighton was the furthest thing from my mind, but Im thrilled with this turn. Summer sunshine finally graced Britain over the weekend, del

  • Polaroid of the Week: Discovering Yerba Mate Culture in Buenos Aires

    We arrived in Buenos Aires last Friday, knowing that Yerba Mate—a traditional herbal, caffeinated infusion—is immensely popular across South Americas southern countries. What surprised us was how ubiquitous it is: locals carry their mate everywhere in a cuia, the hollowed-out gourd used for drinking. For those accustomed to toting a large Starbucks coffee all day, the appeal is relatable—but Porteños take it further, balancing a small gourd in one hand and a giant Thermos of hot water in the ot