15 Best things to do in India
India is a country of diversity and adventure, offering something for every kind of traveler. It is noisy and it is dirty, but it is also peaceful and interesting. From exploring ancient temples and majestic palaces to enjoying street food and going on thrilling wildlife safaris, it is never boring.
The Taj Mahal
Located in Agra, The Taj Mahal is, without a doubt, one of the most recognizable icons of India and one of the Seven Wonders of the World. This emotional white marble tomb was built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his cherished wife, Mumtaz Mahal.
Completed in 1648, the tomb is the center of a 17- hectare complex that includes a synagogue, a guest house and formal auditoriums. The construction of the Taj Mahal involved further than 20,000 crafters and workers under the arquitect of mastermind Ustad Ahmad Lahori. The Taj Mahal is a symbol of architectural grandeur and human devotion that has endured through the centuries.
The Ganges River
The Ganges River is considered sacred by millions of Hindus and is a must- see for any visitor. A trip to India would not be complete without passing the spirituality that surrounds this river. Flowing more than 2,500 kilometers from the Himalayas to the Bay of Bengal, the Ganges speaks about the history of India and is a symbol of sanctification and renewa You can join an aarti ceremony (ceremony held everynight to honor the Ganges), in Varanasi where devotes pay homage to the river with lights and chants at evening.
It’s also possible to take a boat lift along the Ganges to observe the diurnal life of the occupants and the rituals that take place along its banks.
The beaches of Goa
With its blend of Portuguese and Indian culture, Goa is the sand paradise of India oferring about 100 kilometers of stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich history, Goa is an excellent destination for those looking to get away from the noise of the cities.
Visit Jaipur
Jaipur, also known as the Pink City, is packed with incredible palaces like the Hawa Mahal and the Amber Fort, where every corner feels like a storybook. It’s got that perfect mix of rich history and modern charm, plus it’s an Instagrammer’s paradise with all its colorful streets and bustling bazaars.
Jaipur palace
Also known as the Hawa Mahal or the” Palace of the Winds”, Jaipur Palace is an architectural wonder. This impressive palace was built in 1799 and has a façade of 953 windows, giving it a unique look. By exploring the interior, you can learn about the history of the royal family of Jaipur and enjoy panoramic views of the megacity.
Ride an Elephant at Amber Fort (Jaipur)
Riding an elephant up to Amber Fort in Jaipur is one of those bucket-list experiences you won’t forget! The view from the top is incredible, with the surrounding hills and city below.
Visit Varanasi
Varanasi is one of the most spiritual places you can visit. Watch the sunrise over the Ganges River, where locals perform traditional rituals, and take a boat ride. It’s both peaceful and mind-blowing at the same time.
The stepwells
Stepwells, or “baoris” and “baolis” as they’re called locally, were essentially a way to store water and provide a community space back in the day. These wells go deep into the ground, and you access the water by walking down a series of steps. They’re not just functional but also incredibly beautiful, often adorned with intricate carvings and designs. They became very popular thanks to Instagram, and a lot of them have been added as attractions in many tours around the country.
Mini Taj
Mini Taj or Baby Taj, as it is also known, is the younger brother of the impressive Taj Mahal. This mausoleum, Built in the late 17th century, was commissioned by Azam Shah, the son of the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, in memory of his mother, Dilras Banu Begum. While it may not have the same grandeur as the Taj Mahal, it’s still a beautiful piece of Mughal architecture with its own unique charm.
Visit Rishikesh
If you’re into yoga or just need to zen out, Rishikesh is the place to be. It’s nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas and is where you’ll find tons of ashrams, yoga retreats, and even a chance to dip your toes into the Ganges.
Spot the wildlife in Bandhavgarh
Bandhavgarh is a beautiful national park located in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh. It’s one of the best places in India to spot Bengal tigers in the wild, thanks to its high density of tigers, (the highest in India). The chances of spotting them are high, especially during early morning and late afternoon safaris. Besides tigers, the park is home to leopards, deers, wild boars, and a variety of bird species. You might also spot sloth bears, jackals, and langur monkeys. You can’t miss it!.
Go on an Himalayan Adventure at Leh-Ladakh
Head to Leh-Ladakh for some serious trekking and jaw-dropping landscapes. It’s got a rugged beauty, with towering mountains, ancient monasteries, and crystal-clear lakes. Perfect for anyone who’s a little outdoorsy.
The Golden Temple (Amritsar)
The Golden Temple is as stunning as it sounds. Not only is it beautiful, but it’s also a place of generosity. They serve free meals to thousands of people every day, regardless of background.
Explore Delhi
Delhi can be a bit overwhelming at first, but once you get past the chaos, this city becomes extremely interesting. From historical sites like Qutub Minar and Humayun’s Tomb to the bustling markets and street food, it’s a city that’s always buzzing with energy.
Attend the Ganga Aarti in Varanasi
Varanasi is one of the most spiritual places in India, and the Ganga Aarti ceremony on the banks of the Ganges River is a magical experience. You’ll see priests performing rituals with fire as the river glows in the dusk light.
Are you ready to start discovering India?
I decided to book a couple tours when I went to India and had an amazing experience! I’m leaving the link to the tour below in case you are interested!
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