Holiday Destinations in India

A Philatelic Celebration of India’s Scenic and Cultural Splendour

Stamp Design and Photography Competitions by Department of Posts

Since 2015, the Department of Posts has been organizing stamp design and photography competitions on various themes to mark national occasions such as Republic Day, Independence Day, and Children’s Day. These competitions invite creative participation from citizens across the country, celebrating India’s diversity and talent.

Based on the winning entries, stamps, miniature sheets, first day covers, and brochures are designed and released. The selected participants are also felicitated with cash awards for their artistic contribution.

Photography Competition 2018 – “Holiday Destinations in India”

On the occasion of Independence Day 2018, a nationwide photography competition was conducted on the theme “Holiday Destinations in India.” The competition received overwhelming participation from photography enthusiasts across the nation.

Based on the winning entries, two stamps, a Miniature Sheet, First Day Cover, and Brochure have been designed.

The first three winners of the competition are:

• Sh. Sandeep Nema
• Sh. Maninder Singh Sodhi
• Sh. Pranil Anil Borkar

The five consolation prize winners are:

• Ms. Tina Verma
• Sh. Prashant Singhal
• Sh. Patel Narayan Dwarakdas
• Sh. M. Vinoth Kumar
• Sh. Dattaprasad V. Mantri

Exploring India – The Land of Diversity

India is one of the most diverse and vibrant countries in the world—an extraordinary land of colors, contrasts, and cultures. From the snow-capped valleys of Kashmir to the sun-kissed shores of Kanyakumari, every corner of the country offers a unique travel experience.

Tourism in India is not merely about sightseeing; it is about experiencing nature, learning from history, and embracing culture. Every journey acquaints the traveler with the customs, language, and lifestyle of local communities, while also providing spiritual and emotional rejuvenation.

Miniature Sheet – The Thar Desert

The Miniature Sheet designed for this issue features a stunning photograph of the Thar Desert, symbolizing its integral relationship with Rajasthan’s culture.

Also known as the Great Indian Desert, the Thar is the 18th largest desert in the world and the 9th largest subtropical desert. The desert comes alive during the Rajasthan Desert Festival, celebrated each year with great enthusiasm.

Dressed in colorful traditional attire, the people of the desert sing and dance to ballads of valor, romance, and tragedy. The fair is a lively spectacle featuring snake charmers, puppeteers, acrobats, and folk artists, with camels taking center stage. Camel safaris across the golden sands of Jaisalmer offer both adventure and a glimpse into the delicate desert ecosystem.

Stamp 1 – The City Palace, Udaipur

One of the stamps features a breathtaking photograph of the City Palace, Udaipur, Rajasthan.

Udaipur, often referred to as the “Venice of the East” or the “City of Lakes,” was founded in 1553 by Maharana Udai Singh II as the capital of the Mewar Kingdom. Surrounded by the Aravalli Hills and shimmering lakes, Udaipur’s City Palace stands majestically over Lake Pichola, offering panoramic views of the city.

The palace complex is an architectural marvel with its balconies, towers, and cupolas, and now houses a museum showcasing artifacts of royal heritage, preserving the grandeur of Mewar’s glorious past.

Stamp 2 – The Stone Chariot, Hampi

The second stamp depicts the Stone Chariot of Hampi, Karnataka—one of India’s most iconic monuments and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Once the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire in the 14th century, Hampi is renowned for its grandiose ruins spread over 4,100 hectares. Described by UNESCO as an “austere, grandiose site,” it showcases the remnants of a powerful Hindu kingdom through its temples, shrines, halls, mandapas, and water structures.

The Stone Chariot, though often mistaken for a movable chariot, is a stone shrine designed in the likeness of one. Carved from granite blocks with concealed joints, it exemplifies the architectural brilliance of ancient Indian craftsmanship.

Capturing the Spirit of India

The prize-winning photographs selected for this issue beautifully portray the geographical, architectural, and cultural diversity of India. The accompanying First Day Cover and Brochure further showcase the splendour of India’s tourist destinations, inspiring travelers to explore the many wonders that the country has to offer.

Through this special philatelic release, the Department of Posts salutes the creative vision of Indian photographers and celebrates the timeless beauty of India’s holiday destinations.