India is one of the most diverse countries in the world. It has a rich and varied culture that fascinates every traveler that arrives. Visiting India can be a thrilling experience, with its mesmerizing beauty, its complex history, and its exotic cuisine. But when you plan your trip, you might find yourself wondering – what are the best things to do when visiting India?
In this article, we’ll discuss the best things to do when visiting India. Whether you want to explore India’s top attractions or take it easy on a yoga retreat – there is something for everyone. Read on to discover the best of India.
Explore India’s Top Cities
India is a vast country with dozens of different cities and regions. It is impossible to visit them all in one visit, so it’s best to focus on the top cities. Here are some highlights to explore:
• Delhi: Delhi is the capital of India and is home to numerous attractions like the India Gate, Gurudwara Bangla Sahib and Red Fort.
• Mumbai: Home to the Gateway of India, the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel and Marine Drive, Mumbai is a melting pot of cultures that celebrates a variety of religions and festivals.
• Chennai: Chennai is famous for its beaches, such as Marina Beach and the Elliots Beach, as well as its intricate temples like Kapaleeshwarar Temple or Parthasarathy Temple.
• Goa: Goa isn’t just about beaches and partying – it has some of India’s best architecture, such as St. Francis Church, Se Cathedral and Bom Jesus Basilica.
Uncover India’s Beautiful Landscapes
India is blessed with unique and stunning landscapes. From snow-capped mountain ranges to deserts and verdant jungles, there is something for everyone in India. Here are some of India’s top landscapes to explore:
• Himalayas: The breath-taking view of the Himalayas from the Sari Pass will stay with you forever.
• Sundarbans: The mangroves in Sundarbans National Park provide a safe haven for the Royal Bengal Tiger, who is much appreciated by locals and visitors alike.
• Thar Desert: Experience the rich culture and breathtaking sunsets of the Thar Desert, in Rajasthan.
• Tea plantations: The terraced tea plantations of Munnar in Kerala must be seen to be believed.
Discover India’s Unique Heritage
India is a country full of wonders, with a heritage and culture that is unlike any other. Here are some of the activities to immerse yourself in India’s unique heritage:
• Visit a palace: Visit the grand palaces of India, such as the famous Amber Palace in Jaipur or the City Palace in Udaipur.
• Participate in a festival: India is full of unique festivals and celebrations, such as Holi, Diwali and Ganesh Chaturthi. These festivals bring people of all faiths and nationalities together in a colorful and joyful atmosphere.
• Visit a temple: Visit one of India’s many temples, from the iconic Golden Temple in Amritsar to the Birla Mandir temple in Hyderabad.
• Experience the art: India has a great traditional and modern art scene, from the Ajanta and Ellora Caves to the National Gallery of Modern Art.
Explore India’s Delicious Cuisine
India’s food is as varied and complex as its people. Indian cuisine ranges from the spicy dishes of the South to the meaty tandoori dishes of the North. Here are some must-tries when in India:
• Dairy: India’s dairy is deliciously different, with its curd and paneer dishes, and its unique street food like choley bhatura and aloo chaat.
• Curries: From the unique Kabab of Lucknow to the Malvani fish curry, there’s a variety of curries to try.
• Snacks: Don’t forget the snacks like samosas, batata vada and bhelpuri.
• Sweets: India is famous for its colorful and delicious desserts like Gulab Jamun, Moong Dal Halwa, and Gajar ka Halwa.
Relax on a Yoga Retreat
India is the birthplace of yoga and is known for its passion for the healing practice. Take some time to relax on a yoga retreat in Rishikesh or at an ashram in Goa. Here you can learn about the history of yoga, practice ancient techniques, and get a taste of spiritual India.
Take a Wildlife Safari
For nature lovers, India has some of the best wildlife safaris in the world. Some of the most famous wildlife parks in India include Bandhavgarh National Park, Jim Corbett National Park, Ranthambore National Park and Kanha National Park. Here you can spot the majestic Bengal tiger or elephants of India, amongst many other animals.
Shop Till You Drop
India is a great place for shoppers – offer everything from the bustling markets of Delhi to the luxury stores of Mumbai. Wherever you are in India, you can find something worth buying. Here are some of the best places to shop:
• Chandni Chowk – A vibrant and chaotic market in Delhi, selling everything from fabrics to spices.
• Cafe Coffee Day – India’s famous cafe where you can enjoy a cup of coffee and relax.
• Sarojini Nagar Market – A fun and cheap market in Delhi that has great deals on clothes and accessories.
• Colaba Causeway – A great spot for souvenirs, jewellery and clothing in Mumbai.
India is a country full of wonders and things to do. From exploring its top cities, admiring its landscapes and uncovering its heritage to relaxing on a yoga retreat, experiencing its delicious cuisine and going on a wildlife safari – India has something for everyone. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and experience the best of India today.
