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Missed flights, multiple layovers and surprise stops: My journey from Chennai to Vegas and back

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I stop midway through a surprisingly great breakfast mid-air and try to make sense of what I am hearing over the intercom. Did the pilot just say we are turning back? Are we actually going to land in Chennai again? 

A flight attendant soon steps out, eyes us apologetically, and attempts to explain to a sea of glaring passengers in front of him that airspace tensions over West Asia mean we will have to turn back. I sink into my seat. This unprecedented U-turn is not the start I envisioned for my first trip outside of Asia. What will happen to my connecting flights? Should I continue eating my excellent breakfast or will the plates be cleared to prepare for landing? This is truly an emotional roller-coaster. 

In the two hours I spend on the runway after we land, I am given multiple reassurances by friends and family to allay the fears I have about missing my connecting flight. “The airline will figure out a way to get you to your destination, don’t you worry,” I am told. My destination, Las Vegas, now seems very very far away. And while we surprisingly do take off and land in Heathrow many hours later, I have of course, missed my connecting flight. 

For someone who has extensively but only travelled through Asia, all of this feels unfamiliar. Heathrow thankfully seems to have more desis than the average Indian airport, or any other Asian airport I have been to for that matter and it is not long before I am sent packing to an airport hotel for the night. I take a minute to soak in my surroundings; I am here in London, a place I had only ever dreamt of visiting thanks to Enid Blyton and the Harry Potter books. I am excited of course, but also alarmed, largely at the lack of pounds in my wallet, and how blindingly bright it is outside at 9pm.

The writer near the London Eye

The writer near the London Eye
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

Having found an ATM and thanking my stars for having packed at least one extra set of clothes in my carry-on luggage, I am convinced an adventure awaits the next day. I have six hours until I need to be at the airport and am at least an hour away from Central London. Friends in London are taken aback at my sudden arrival but waste no time in giving me multiple itineraries for what I can do in four hours excluding travel time. I play it safe; I set aside at least three hours to figure out how a combination of frighteningly expensive taxis and the extremely efficient tube system can take me to and from where I need to go. 

Unexpected travel adventures: How to be prepared

1. Have at least two extra sets of clothes + night clothes in your carry on bag

2. You will be surprised as to what essentials hotels will refuse to provide for free: pack that toothbrush!

3. Ensure international transactions are enabled on your debit cards

4. Download the apps of the airlines you are flying on and enable notifications for updates on flight cancellations and re-routings

5. If you have a long layover and wish to head out to explore, check for public transport routes, if you need travel cards and more before you opt for a taxi

6. Invest in airtags for your checked-in suitcases to be able to track your luggage

While I warily ask ChatGPT for a walking route to maximise tourist efficiency and all, I soon abandon all of its suggestions when I reach Piccadilly and spot an exit that says Shaftesbury Avenue. I find myself walking through a street of theatres and my English Literature student’s heart is thrilled to spot The Harold Pinter Theatre. Not too far away I see that Trafalgar theatre is showing a production of Clueless. I severely regret my limited time in London. 

My mostly random walk, guided of course by Google maps, takes me to Parliament Road, the Westminster station, and soon enough, Big Ben looms into view. If I was shy about asking strangers to take a photo for me by the many iconic red telephone booths I pass, I soon abandon all hesitation. I take multiple photos, near Big Ben and by the London Eye when I walk along Victoria Embankment. 

On my way back to the airport to catch my connecting flight, I think of how all of this has been an unexpected treat and yet hope for enough excitement for the rest of the trip. Of course, when I land in USA, I find that my checked-in luggage has not made it. I am now down to no clothes for the next day thanks to my London detour, and regret not having packed another set of clothes in my carry-on. Lost luggage however means my first stop is obviously America’s Instagram famous Target. I soon discover that Marshalls and Ross for Less score bigger points. Yay for discount stores! 

While the rest of my trip goes without a hitch, I land at the airport only to get a taste of what it means to have flights rerouted across a country I know barely anything of. What was supposed to be a trip to Vegas now includes stops at the Phoenix airport (a friend insisted that the Four Peaks brewery there was not to be missed), and the glitzy yet overwhelmingly complicated Los Angeles airport. After further delays and the rejection of kind offer by the airlines to route me via Tokyo and Hong Kong to reach India, I decide to stay back in Los Angeles and catch a flight the next day with a less exhausting route.

I now feel like a pro. I brace myself for the exorbitant taxi costs, look at a host of itineraries online for quick tours and decide Hollywood Boulevard is the place to go to, and am doubly prepared with essentials in my hand baggage. An hour away from my hotel by the airport, I am gaping at the milling crowds and the facade of the iconic Chinese Theatre, all while trying not to walk carefully and spot stars dedicated to my favourite actors on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Did you know even Winnie the Pooh has his own star? I also encounter the nicest Uber drivers through the trip; all of whom vehemently tell me to skip the touristy spots, about how they’ve always wanted to visit India, and how they have to try authentic ‘curry’. 

Winnie the Pooh’s star at the Hollywood Walk of Fame

Winnie the Pooh’s star at the Hollywood Walk of Fame
| Photo Credit:
S Poorvaja

When I make my way back to the airport for what is hopefully my last connecting flight before I head home, I discover that I have a clutch of boarding passes with me; of delayed flights, missed connecting flights and more; all very indicative of the time I have had. I have to remind myself that travelling, more often than not, is an adventure, and it is this truly unexpected adventure that led me to exploring two new cities, wholly unprepared but fun nonetheless. Am I a pro at handling contingencies now? Probably yes. 

I land in Chennai and realise that my checked in bags have once again, not made it. Time to put my newly acquired skills to test. 

Published – July 04, 2025 09:03 pm IST

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A dawn to dusk food trail in Dindigul, the land of seeraga samba biryani

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I have suitably skipped dinner the pervious night in preparation for my Dindigul trip. A crucial tip to those who plan to visit the town on a food tour: go on an empty stomach. If possible, fast for a week before you start dreaming of seeraga samba biryani, for, you might eat far more than you can handle. Dindigul, located a little less than 65 kilometres from Madurai, is the birthplace of Tamil Nadu’s seeraga samba biryani that is now going places. But there is more to the town than just biryani. Here are our picks.

Lamb trotters for breakfast

In Dindigul, several restaurants serve biryani from as early as 6am. I do not yield to the temptation so early in the day, and try something different. Bangaru Biryani, started in 1931 by Bangarusamy Naidu, has opened a new outlet on Round Road, serving biryani, idli and idiyappam with a range of mutton and chicken sides for breakfast.

The breakfast platter at Bangaru Biryani Hotel in Dindigul

The breakfast platter at Bangaru Biryani Hotel in Dindigul
| Photo Credit:
KARTHIKEYAN G

The small eatery that can seat not more than 12 people, is being run by S Giridharan, great grandson of the founder Bangarusamy. Giridharan’s father Subbrayalu Naidu trained under the founder in his younger years. A small framed photo of Subbrayalu hangs on the wall, opposite which the menu is displayed. K Angusamy, the master, lays out a feast on a leaf: idiyappam, idli, lamp trotters soup, mutton chukka, vellai kuruma, naattu kozhi kulambu, and mutton milagu kulambu. There is also a serving of mutton biryani and dalcha.

The mutton chukka alone, a dish of popcorn-sized boneless mutton slow-cooked with chilli powder and curry leaves, makes the journey worthwhile. The meat is tender, enveloped in a glistening layer of chilli-infused oil, punctuated by crisp curry leaves. It goes well with the idiyappam.

A mention must be made of the creamy mutton vellai kuruma, a Dindigul staple. Angusamy explains that it has ground coconut, cashew nuts and roasted chana dal. This curry is the next most popular dish is the town after biryani. It is mild with a hit of pepper, and can be had with idlis as well as idiyappams and dosas.

How much biryani is too much?

It is natural to feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of places to eat biryani in town. With three branches, Siva is the new favourite in Dindigul, and I understand why. The oldest outlet, a hole-in-wall place at Begampur, is always packed. Venu, a few blocks away, serves decent biryani too. But there is something about Siva that makes it a tad better.

Lunch is served at Siva Biryani

Lunch is served at Siva Biryani
| Photo Credit:
KARTHIKEYAN G

The biryani is light brown, with the rice cooked al dente. The spices are balanced — unlike some restaurants that go a little overboard with cinnamon — and the meat is tender. For people like me who grew up eating Venu, Thalappakatti, and Ponram biryani, Siva’s is similar and different at the same time. A Mohan Raj, a relative of the founder K Ganesan, explains that the trick is to source the right ingredients. While the restaurant has been around from 1989, it really took off after the pandemic, with tourists from Chennai, Bengaluru, and Coimbatore visiting the town just for their biryani.

“In 2023, a Japanese restauranteur came to Dindigul for a week-long trip,” recalls Mohan. “He ate our biryani for lunch every day, alternating it with kari dosai for dinner.” The 32-year-old does not remember his name nor did he understand the guest’s language. “But I do know that he went back happy,” he says.

Warm, gooey halwa and jilebis

It is common practice for tourists to stop at one of the sweet shops for its jilebis after their fix of biryani. Among the oldest such shops is Jilebi Seshaiyer on Sandhai Road. Established in the 1960s, the shop is the brainchild of SK Seshaiyer, who initially sold sweets on pushcarts at various spots in town. His jilebis gradually grew in popularity and today, are served fresh and mildly warm through the day.

Jilebi at Jilebi Seshaiyer Sweets on Sandhai Road, Dindigul

Jilebi at Jilebi Seshaiyer Sweets on Sandhai Road, Dindigul
| Photo Credit:
KARTHIKEYAN G

A piece of the sweet makes the palate happy, and the owner R Bhuvaneshwari suggests we also try the godhumai halwa. The sticky, chocolate-brown dessert is warm and drips with ghee.

Coffee with a side of potato masala

A savouries shop in a small lane sells what is arguably the oldest snack in Dindigul. Known as ‘Alwar kadai’, the shop has been around for over 75 years, selling mixture, boondi, murukku, pakoda, among others. But I arrive there on the last leg of my journey for a taste of its potato pottalam, a dish of boiled, mashed potatoes cooked with onions, turmeric and green chillies.

Potato masal at Aalwar Sweets in Dindigul

Potato masal at Aalwar Sweets in Dindigul
| Photo Credit:
KARTHIKEYAN G

The owner SS Sathyanarayanan who is seated at the counter, says gravely: “It is not yet 3pm.” The snack is available only then, and gets sold out soon after. Once the masala arrives from the kitchen, it is packed as small dollops in banana leaves.

A little after 3.15pm, he offers a pottalam for me to try. It is triangular — the wrapping gives way to warm, thick, potato masala folded in a banana leaf. It is not too heavy flavour-wise, but can make for a nice snack to go with coffee or tea from the many tea shops in town.

As for dinner, I decide to make do with coconut water. But one can also do another round at Ponram, Venu, Thalappakatti, and Bangaru, not necessarily in that order.

How to get there

There are several trains from Chennai that stop at Dindigul, such as the Vaigai Express, Tirunelveli Vande Bharat Express, and Pothigai Express. Madurai is the nearest city with an airport, with regular buses to and from Dindigul.

Published – July 10, 2025 01:10 pm IST

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Mahindra expands XUV 3XO range with REVX variants

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Mahindra XUV 3XO

Mahindra XUV 3XO
| Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

Mahindra has reinforced its presence in the competitive C-segment SUV space with the introduction of three new petrol variants under the ‘REVX’ nomenclature — the REVX M, REVX M(O), and the REVX A. These additions to the XUV 3XO range aim to bridge the gap between entry-level and higher-spec variants by offering a more feature-rich proposition at accessible price points.

Positioning is key here. The REVX M and M(O) have been slotted between the MX2 and MX2 Pro trims, while the REVX A finds itself just below the AX5 L, effectively expanding the product band with minimal overlap. The strategy is clear: create finely-segmented options that respond to diverse buyer expectations — from value-driven essentials to performance-oriented sophistication.

Powertrain options remain consistent with Mahindra’s modular approach. The REVX M and M(O) are equipped with the 1.2-litre mStallion TCMPFi engine, producing 82 kW (110 bhp) and 200 Nm of torque. Tuned for smooth, linear delivery, it is well-suited for urban commutes and occasional intercity travel. The REVX A, however, makes a notable leap with the more advanced 1.2-litre mStallion TGDi powerplant, delivering 96 kW (130 bhp) and 230 Nm of torque. This engine, offered with both manual and automatic transmissions, transforms the 3XO into a far more responsive and refined vehicle — a distinction that will not go unnoticed by discerning drivers.

Mahindra XUV 3XO

Mahindra XUV 3XO
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

Design and visual identity also receive meaningful upgrades. The REVX A stands apart with a distinctive body-coloured gunmetal grille, gloss-black R16 alloy wheels, a contrasting dual-tone roof, and subtle ‘REVX’ branding on the C-pillar — touches that lend it a premium, more individualistic character. ORVM-integrated turn indicators and Bi-LED projector headlamps further elevate both its safety credentials and road presence.

Meanwhile, the REVX M and M(O) maintain visual consistency across the range. While they ride on steel wheels with black covers, both variants receive LED DRLs running across the fascia, a dual-tone roof, and the same body-coloured grille — a thoughtful approach that avoids a stripped-down aesthetic even in the lower trims.

Inside, Mahindra has ensured that material quality and in-cabin technology remain competitive. The REVX A offers black leatherette upholstery, a dual-tone cabin theme, and twin 26.03 cm HD screens — one serving infotainment duties and the other as a digital driver’s display. The Adrenox Connect system is standard on this trim, bringing with it a suite of connected features, including built-in Alexa, online navigation, and wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay — aligning the 3XO with modern user’s expectations in the segment.

Despite their more accessible positioning, the REVX M and M(O) are not spartan. The REVX M features leatherette seating, a touchscreen infotainment system, steering-mounted controls, and a 4-speaker audio setup. A single-pane sunroof is offered on the M(O), while the A variant receives a panoramic sunroof as standard — further enhancing the sense of space and premium appeal. The base REVX M omits a sunroof entirely, but remains reasonably well-equipped.

Mahindra XUV 3XO

Mahindra XUV 3XO
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

Safety continues to be a strong point across the range. All three REVX variants are fitted with six airbags, Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Hill Hold, and disc brakes on all four wheels — all as standard. Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), however, remain the preserve of the higher AX trims, ensuring clear differentiation at the top of the hierarchy.

The XUV 3XO has already demonstrated its market potential with over 1,00,000 units sold within 11 months of launch. With the introduction of the REVX variants, Mahindra is sharpening the product’s appeal by introducing a more nuanced value proposition — one that caters to varied customer priorities without undermining the brand’s premium aspirations.

Ex-showroom pricing for the new REVX variants is REVX M: ₹8.94 lakh, REVX M(O): ₹9.44 lakh and REVX A: Starting at ₹11.79 lakh.

Motorscribes, in association with The Hindu, brings you the latest in cars and bikes. Follow them on Instagram on @motorscribes

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Monsoon treks near Visakhapatnam: Explore scenic Eastern Ghats trails

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A view of Armakonda peak.

A view of Armakonda peak.
| Photo Credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

Each monsoon, the dusty calm of the Eastern Ghats near Visakhapatnam transforms into dense canopies, flowing streams and fresh trails. Mist wraps undisturbed hillsides, foot trails soften under cloudbursts and hidden waterfalls reveal themselves to those willing to walk into the wilderness. Trekkers, photographers and Nature-lovers are now drawn to the elevated interiors of Alluri Sitharama Raju district and beyond. A new wave of monsoon treks is shaping the region’s eco-tourism narrative.

Trekking groups are leading a growing community of enthusiasts with guided monsoon treks that go beyond adventure. These curated trails are introducing participants to lesser-known ecosystems, endemic biodiversity and the cultural knowledge of local communities inhabiting these remote landscapes. Here’s a list of monsoon treks that take you through cloud-covered peaks of the Eastern Ghats.

Kandupalem waterfalls

A view of the Kandupalem waterfalls in Paderu.

A view of the Kandupalem waterfalls in Paderu.
| Photo Credit:
SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

Tucked into the verdant folds of Paderu’s highlands, the Kandupalem waterfall trek is as much a cultural passage as it is a scenic one. The trail winds through a remote tribal hamlet before descending into a dense canopy where the gurgling of water becomes audible long before it’s visible. The trek is not arduous, but the journey demands attentiveness, both to the changing forest floor and the sudden appearance of butterflies, beetles and fungi that flourish in the damp terrain. During the monsoon, the waterfalls surge with vitality. The trek is organised by Visakhapatnam-based Nature group Wilded in collaboration with the local communities. On the way to the Kandupalem trek, the route offers sweeping views of the Konam reservoir and dam, framed by the deep valleys and forests of the Eastern Ghats. The day-long trek takes people from Hanumanthwaka junction to the hike and back to where they started out.

Difficulty level: Easy to moderate, 6 kilometres overall

Chittamgondi meadows

A view of the trek route of Chittamgondi meadows near Araku.

A view of the trek route of Chittamgondi meadows near Araku.
| Photo Credit:
SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

Organised by Wilded, the Chittamgondi meadows trek in Araku unfolds along scenic, green rocky trails that gradually ascend to expansive meadows situated at an altitude of 4,100 feet above sea level. The trail, covering a distance of eight kilometres, offers a moderate challenge for those seeking both adventure and immersion in the landscape. At the summit, trekkers are rewarded with a sweeping 360-degree view of the Eastern Ghats with an uninterrupted panorama of ridgelines and valleys softened by the monsoon. A notable feature of the trek is a natural cave shelter once used by local hunters, adding a layer of cultural intrigue to the journey through these highland grasslands. The walk is slow-paced, built for immersion rather than endurance, allowing trekkers to witness how monsoon-fed landscapes nurture entire microhabitats. Wilded’s emphasis on minimal intervention and local interpretation ensures the trek remains rooted in ecological awareness rather than tourism fatigue.

Difficulty level: Moderate

Armakonda trek

A view of the camp site of Armakonda.

A view of the camp site of Armakonda.
| Photo Credit:
SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

At 4,500 feet above sea level, Armakonda (also known as Jindhagada peak) is the tallest point in Andhra Pradesh. Hikoi Adventures, a trekking group known for its offbeat routes, is organising the Freedom Trek to this peak located at Paderu on August 14 and 15 to mark Independence Day. The route, starting from Paderu and gradually ascending through water-crossed paths and thick vegetation, is led by a team of experienced local youth alongside Hikoi’s trained members. The ascent, which takes approximately two and a half hours, culminates at a campsite near the summit, offering a rare opportunity to spend the night on top of the Eastern Ghats. What sets this trek apart is its altitude as well as the diverse terrain it traverses – limestone caves, freshwater stream crossings and stretches of highland forest that unfold in segments along the route, revealing a different facet of the region’s rugged ecology.

Difficulty level: Moderate to difficult

Sir Endric Peak

A view of the trek route to Endric Peak.

A view of the trek route to Endric Peak.
| Photo Credit:
SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

Close to the Odisha border in Paderu lies the forest-covered Sir Endric Peak, rising to 1,572 metres above sea level. The initial 30-minute stretch of this three-hour trek organised by Hikoi is notably steep, demanding steady footing and a slow, deliberate pace. Once the first climb is complete, the forest thickens, revealing a layered rainforest system few trekkers expect to encounter this far south. The terrain evolves every half hour from shaded paths to fern-filled clearings to wind-swept ridges. The final stretch is steep, but the summit rewards the effort with a surreal view: a quiet valley suspended above the clouds.

Difficulty level: Moderate to difficult

Galikonda Trek

Galikonda, the second highest peak in Andhra Pradesh, is not for first-time trekkers. Located near Sunkarmetta Junction, the trail rises to 1,643 metres over a rugged terrain of loose rocks, narrow passes and exposed ridgelines. The trek takes about two and a half hours, though the strain lies more in mental resolve than distance. It is open, challenging and occasionally punishing. But for those who persist, the summit offers a rarely seen panoramic sweep of the Araku valley.

Difficulty level: Very difficult Contact Wilded at 7330880274 and Hikoi at 8332935333

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