Usually, architects and construction workers build bridges, not gardeners. However, in India's Cherrapunji region, it's actually a little bit of both. Like something ripped from the pages of Tolkien, the War-Khasis tribe grows living bridges from the roots of the Ficus elastica rubber tree. (via Treehugger) Although the bridges take time to grow, once they are finished they are quite strong, and they gain strength as they get older and the roots get stronger. To create the bridges, the War-Khasis plant a tree and then uses hollow tree trunks to direct the spread of the roots as the tree goes. When the tree roots reach the other side of the river, they dig themselves into the shore and cling to it with a vengeance. Some of these bridges span more than 100 feet and are over 500 years o

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"I think that I shall never see, a poem as lovely as a tree." Joyce Kilmer There's something really special, almost magical, about old trees. Being in the presence of a living thing that has been around for hundreds of years really puts our short human lives into perspective. Each tree is unique, shaped by both its own internal biology and the forces of nature. It's no wonder that people often give names or even build shrines to trees that are particularly old or distinctive. India is an excellent place to see some of these giants. In fact, Matador Travel currently has a post up by YD Bar-Ness describing the "tree pilgrimage" he took across the country. I love trees, but I must admit that until now I'd never thought of traveling to India to see them. I'd always imagined touring temple

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Why travel to India?  There are too many reasons to count, really, but we've managed to narrow it down to the top 5. Your mileage may vary of course-if there's something we should have included or something you think we should have left out, let us know in the comments! 1. The Taj Mahal India's most famous building, the Taj Mahal is practically the national symbol. Built by an emperor to immortalize his beloved wife, the Taj never fails to impress. 2. Indian Food So much more than just curry, Indian food has countless regional variations, all of them delicious. 3. Goa This countercultural playground is known for more than just its beach parties-the beaches themselves are stunning and the region's rich history makes for interesting excursions. 4. Khajuraho Khajuraho is best

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When you think of India, what comes to mind? Elephant rides? Temples? The Taj Mahal? Paragliding? Aside from the normal touristy stuff, India is also a great place for adventure tourism. This post from the Environmental Graffiti blog has the scoop on the best regions of India for adventure tourism. For example, you can go paragliding, skiing or whitewater rafting in Manali, located in the north of the country, or go for a hike off the beaten path in Leh and Ladakh. Nainital is a great place for boating, horseback riding and rock climbing. Goa is an excellent place for water-based adventures, such as parasailing, waterskiing and scuba diving. There are also dolphin watching tours and something called a "crocodile tour." If you're planning a trip to India, it's essential to have the co

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