Hyderabad's Manam Chocolate makes TIME's World's Greatest Places list

Hyderabad: TIME magazine’s annual ‘World’s Greatest Places’ list celebrated 100 remarkable destinations globally, highlighting locations that stand out for their unique experiences.

For 2024, India’s representation on this prestigious list includes three distinct attractions: the Manam Chocolate Karkhana in Hyderabad, the Naar boutique hotel in Himachal Pradesh and the Museum of Solutions in Mumbai. Each of these destinations offers a unique experience, blending local culture, innovation and sustainability.

Manam Chocolate Karkhana: A chocolate lover’s dream

Located in the heart of Hyderabad’s Banjara Hills, the Manam Chocolate has quickly become a must-visit destination for chocolate enthusiasts.

This 10,000 sq ft immersive space offers a comprehensive journey into the world of craft chocolate, allowing visitors to explore and interact with the chocolate-making process. They not only sell a variety of chocolate bars but also feature an atrium café where visitors can enjoy an array of sweet and savoury dishes.

Chaitanya Muppala, founder of Manam Chocolate and CEO of Distinct Origins, expressed his pride in this recognition: “We launched Manam Chocolate a little under a year ago with the mission to offer a craft chocolate experience from India, by Indians, for the world. We are humbled to be recognised on a list of global prestige so early in our journey. Being on the TIME annual list of the World’s Greatest Places 2024 – amongst some of the best and most exciting places on earth, is a huge honour for us. It is not just an honour we take seriously but a commitment we make to continue our efforts to build the best craft chocolate experience for the world, from India.”

Manam’s commitment to quality extends to its sourcing practices. The company collaborates closely with farmers and fermenters in Andhra Pradesh’s West Godavari district, ensuring that the cacao used is of the highest quality and fairly traded.

Muppala shared, “Each bar has the name of the farmer on it. I know which tree this cacao comes from, I know the farmer, I’ve had lunch with him.” This transparent approach not only honours the farmers but also educates consumers about the origins of their chocolate.

Naar Boutique Hotel: A culinary journey through the Himalayas

Naar, a boutique hotel nestled in Kasauli, Himachal Pradesh, offers guests a unique culinary experience rooted in the region’s diverse flavours.

Founded by Kashmiri chef Prateek Sadhu, Naar emphasises the use of regional ingredients, such as Himachali yak cheese and Ladakhi buckwheat pasta.

The hotel aims to tell the stories of the Himalayas through its cuisine, offering dishes like juniper-smoked lamb with Kashmiri mushqbudji rice and Naga bamboo shoot pickles.

“I could have easily done it in Bombay or Delhi. But I’m building more than just a restaurant. I’m telling the stories of the Himalayas,” Sadhu told TIME. This commitment to authenticity and local culture has made Naar a standout destination for travellers seeking an immersive gastronomic experience.

Museum of Solutions: Innovating Education and Engagement

Mumbai’s Museum of Solutions has also been recognised for its innovative approach to education and engagement. The museum’s inclusion on the list underscores its role in promoting creativity and problem-solving among visitors.

Emerging trends in travel

TIME’s list reflects broader trends in the travel industry, particularly the influence of social media in shaping destination choices.

Emma Barker, a senior editor at TIME, noted: “Destinations that result in stunning photography are really popular,” driven by platforms like TikTok and Instagram. This visual appeal, combined with an increasing interest in outdoor adventures and unique cultural experiences, has shaped the preferences of Gen Z and other travellers.

The rise of space-related tourism and interest in self-discovery journeys also highlight how travellers are seeking meaningful and transformative experiences.

As Barker mentioned, these trends offer ‘a twist on the wellness retreat,’ merging exploration with personal growth.

Conclusion

The inclusion of Manam Chocolate Karkhana, Naar, and the Museum of Solutions in TIME’s World's Greatest Places 2024 list not only celebrates these destinations’ unique offerings but also highlights India’s growing presence in the global travel landscape.

Whether through culinary innovation, immersive cultural experiences or educational engagement, these destinations represent the diverse and evolving nature of travel in India today.