Exploring America: My Favorite States
When asked about my favorite states, whether it's the diverse topography and rich culture of India or the vast and varied landscapes of the United States, a plethora of memories floods my mind. India, with its sheer diversity, has been the playground for my travels, visiting 13 of the 28 states. However, among the many, my favorite is the state of Texas, and here's why.
States Visited in India
Starting from the northernmost state of Jammu and the iconic Vaishno Devi, to the mystical Narayan Devi in Himachal Pradesh, and passing through Haryana, Delhi, Uttarakhand, and Uttar Pradesh, each state has its own charm. Rajasthan, with its rich history and vibrant culture, including visits to Pushkar and Jaipur, holds a special place in my heart. From the bustling cities of Noida and Agra, to the beautiful ancient towns of Meerut and Kota, each state has a unique character and stories to tell. Moving further south, Chhattisgarh, with its bustling capital Raipur and the industrial town Bhilai, and Maharastra with its cosmopolitan Mumbai and spiritual Shirdi, always offer something new. Similarly, Karnataka with its beautiful Bangalore, and West Bengal, with its historical Kolkata and bustling academic city of Kharagpur, and Odisha with its spiritual Jagannath Puri, have left a lasting impact.
Favorite State: Texas, America
Coming to the lands of my blood, Texas, has been my favorite. It’s a place of contrasts. From the arid deserts to the snow-covered peaks, from towering mountains to expansive plains, Texas has it all. The state is a blend of modern cosmopolitan cities and sprawling small towns. Just a few miles from my hometown, I can witness the bustling city of Dallas with a population of over 4 million, and yet, I can still feel the tranquility of a small town of 30,000 people. It’s a place where nature thrives, and in the springtime, you can witness fields of wildflowers that are a true sight to behold. The city of Austin, with its vibrant culture and scenic Lake Travis, is a gem in this vast landscape.
However, the true essence of Texas lies in its unique geography. Whether you travel just a few miles or hundreds of miles, you can always find something new. From the pine forests to the rivers and lakes, from the open terrain to the rolling hills, every journey feels like an adventure. I have taken many drives where I would travel hundreds of miles and never get close to the state border, but turn in a different direction, and you will experience a completely different landscape filled with natural beauty. This diversity is what makes Texas truly unique.
Favorite State: Alabama, USA
Even within the United States, my favorite state is Alabama. It's a place rich in history, with mountains and beaches, lakes and flatlands. The rivers, especially the Mobile River, provide a natural beauty that is irreplaceable. Moreover, the state is dotted with friendly people and delicious cuisine, much like the heart-pounding athleticism and passion of Nick Saban, who has led the University of Alabama to multiple National Championship titles. Cities like Birmingham and Montgomery, although not too crowded, are vibrant and filled with life.
A Final Thought
So, when asked about my favorite state, whether it's the diverse charm of places in India like Jammu and Kashmir or the vast and varied landscapes of the United States like Texas and Alabama, the answer always comes down to the rich tapestry of nature and culture that each state offers. Whether it's the wildflowers of Texas or the historical sites of the southeastern United States, every visit leaves a lasting impression.