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India: A Haven for Travellers!

Many of you travel freaks out there have travelled far and wide and explored many places till now. But are you sure you haven’t missed out on any of the amazing places in India? India has a variety of choices for holiday destinations. Whether it be scenic locations, historical and cultural sites, bustling cities, or simple relaxation getaways, India has it all.

Top 10 Must-Visit Places in India

Leh-Ladakh

This astonishing place is number one on our list for many reasons. Located in Kashmir, Leh Ladakh is blessed with picturesque natural beauty.

Why visit Leh Ladakh?

  • The majestic snowcapped mountains, serene glacial lakes, and enchanting valleys are a delightful sight to the eyes and the mind.

  • It is the dream destination for trekkers, as it has some of the world’s highest mountain passes and high-altitude trekking trails.

  • Ladakh is the coldest desert in the world, no excuses for not having experienced a cool vacation!

  • For all the peace seekers, the ancient Buddhist monasteries like the Hemis monastery is a must-see. The sense of peace and solitude you experience here is literally indescribable.

What to do in Leh- Ladakh?

  • Go for stargazing at the Pangkok lake in the night. Trained locals will show you the constellations, stars, using the telescope installed by the Global Himalayan Expedition

  • Try your hand at archery, copper art, and farm walk at Tsogsty, a scenic village in Leh.

  • Rent a bike and explore the place on your own or as a group. Make sure that you don’t ride more than 200 km in a day!

  • Take a cooking class led by the local chefs and learn to cook the traditional Ladakhi momos!

Agra

Agra was once the seat of great Mughal emperors, and the city still stands in testimony to the royal rule then. Agra is a grand paradise for the curious history buffs in you!

Why visit Agra?

  • One of the seven wonders of the world and considered the epitome of love, The Taj Mahal, is located here.

  • Numerous historical monuments are spread out in the city of Agra in Delhi.

  • The only city in the world with three UNESCO world heritage sites- The Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, and Fatehpur Sikri.

  • Amazing Mughlai delicacies that you ought to try.

What to do in Agra?

  • Visit the famous marble monument that is epic of the grand Mughal marchitecture - The Taj Mahal. The best time to visit is during the months from November to February.

  • Check out the red sandstone Agra fort that is a perfect combination of the Islamic and Hindu styles of architecture.

  • Explore the Fatehpur Sikri, famously known as the city of ghosts. It is considered a unique blend of architectural excellence as well as strong religious beliefs.

  • Try out the famous Mughlai dishes and savour the stunning street food here.

  • Stroll through the Agra Bazaar, Subhash Emporium, Kinari Bazaar, and Saad Bazaar. You can find unique art and handicraft pieces, ethnic clothes, shoes, spices and many more at low prices.

Holy City of Varanasi

Located in Uttar Pradesh, the holy city of Varanasi is one of the oldest cities in India and is the most revered of the seven sacred cities in Hinduism.

Why visit the holy city of Varanasi?

  • The city is believed to be formed more than 5000 years ago. In fact, it is one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in the world!

  • Varanasi or Banaras or otherwise known as Kashi, is located on the banks of the river Ganges. More than 60000 people take a bath in the river, daily!

  • It is the ultimate spiritual destination in India. The city is literally bustling with enchanting ancient Hindu temples and devotional songs/ prayers and crowds of people performing poojas and religious rituals.

  • Varanasi is famous for its muslin and silk fabrics, known to the world as Banaras silk.

  • There are more than 87 Ghats adjacent to the Ganges river. These are stone steps that descend steeply towards the river are associated with legends or mythologies. 5 of them are the most important of all.

What to do in the holy city of Varanasi?

  • Pay homage to Lord Shiva in the famous Kashi Vishwanath temple.

  • Wash away your sins (says the belief) by taking a dip in the holy river of Ganges at sunrise. Religious beliefs say that you have to bathe in the five Ghats in a particular order. First the Assi Ghat, then Dasaswamedh Ghat, followed by the Ghat by the Adi Keshava Temple near the Varuna River. Then you have to head to the Panch-Ganga and finally the Manikarnika Ghat.

  • Experience the divine Ganga Aarti at sunset.

  • Savour the delicious Benares ki chaat.

  • Indulge in some shopping while buying the famous Banaras silk saree or get unique musical instruments as souvenirs.

Beaches in Goa

Located on the western coast of India, Goa may be the smallest state but one of the top favorites among global destinations.

Why visit Goa?

  • Goa is synonymous with its number of beautiful and exotic natural beaches, of which almost all are white sand beaches.

  • Goa is literally the nirvana to all beach lovers - such are the kind of beaches you find here.

  • It is also famous for the rich flora and fauna along the Western Ghats of India.

  • More than 8 million tourists visit the beaches in Goa every year!

  • Plenty of clubs and beach shacks to have unlimited fun.

  • A perfect destination for people looking to a carefree and relaxed holiday.

What to do in Goa?

  • Go scuba diving in Malvan Beach to witness the amazing corals and beautiful marine life.

  • Try your hand at adventures water sports at any of the beaches.

  • Take a boat cruise with friends and family to see the stunning sunset and have dinner together.

  • Hire a cycle and ride through the picturesque village of Divar while enjoying the stunning sights.

  • Take a walking tour with a guide to see the famous Goa museum and other historical places. You can witness the rich Portuguese culture and heritage in the architectural attractions.

God's Own Country-Kerala

Located on the southern side of India, Kerala is called God’s own country for its incredible tropical beauty and climatic conditions.

Why visit Kerala?

  • The pristine backwaters are unique to the place and offer the much-needed backdrop for a relaxing vacation.

  • More than 16 million tourists visit Kerala every year! The state promises to offer something to every one of the travelers.

  • Kerala is famous for rejuvenating ayurvedic massages and medical treatment.

  • Kerala has numerous hill stations that offer to be the best option for amazing getaways from the daily hassles.

  • It is home to unique species of aquatic animals and birds.

What to do in Kerala?

  • Book a houseboat stay on the calm backwaters of Alleppey.

  • Explore the sprawling tea gardens of Munnar.

  • Take a thrilling elephant ride at the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary.

  • Watch a mesmerizing session of the traditional dance form of Kathakali at the Kathakali center.

  • Savour the authentic, and aromatic Kerala cuisine traditionally served on a banana leaf.

  • Observe the operation of the massive Chinese nets for fishing at the beaches of Fort Kochi.

Ellora and Ajanta Caves

Located in the state of Maharashtra, the Ellora and Ajanta caves is a world heritage site that captivates the beauty of ancient Buddhist, Jainism and Hindu culture.

Why visit Ellora and Ajanta caves?

  • The rock-cut cave shrines are up to 1500 years old in Ellora and Ajanta.

  • Both the man-made caves are UNESCO world heritage sites.

  • The Kailasa temple which is the 16th cave at Ellora, is the most famous attraction. The life-size elephant sculptures here are world-famous.

  • Perfect place to visit during the months from November to March.

  • Both Ellora and Ajanta have visitor centers that have complete information about the caves.

  • Ajanta caves have India’s most sophisticated ancient paintings dating back to the 4th century. Ellora caves are well known for their extraordinary architecture.

What to do in Ajanta and Ellora?

  • Visit India’s famous cultural fiesta, the “Ellora Ajanta festival” where talented dancers and musicians showcase their talent.

  • Explore the Buddhist culture displayed in the sculptures and paintings at the 29 caves in Ajanta.

  • Visit the Kailash temple and the Grishneshwar temple, both devoted to Lord Shiva.

  • Shop at the open-air markets near the caves and try to lay hands on fine hand-woven Himroo and Paithani silk.

Gulmarg in Kashmir

The most famous skiing destination in India, Gulmarg in Kashmir is also one of the top honeymoon locations.

Why visit Gulmarg?

  • Situated at an altitude of 2730 m above sea level, the place is surrounded by lofty snow-covered Himalayas.

  • Gulmarg has the world’s second-highest gondola ride.

  • Indian Institute of Skiing and mountaineering is located in Gulmarg as the place is the aptest for skiing.

  • Breathtaking landscapes.

What to do in Gulmarg?

  • Go skiing or snowboarding down Highland Park slope.

  • Experience a Gondola ride.

  • Visit the Baba Reshi shrine

  • Go for a trekking trip to Alpathar lake.

Kumbhalgarh in Rajasthan

Located in Gujarat, Kumbhalgarh is the birthplace of Mewar’s legendary king, Maharana Pratap, and a famous world heritage site.

Why visit Kumbhalgarh?

  • The historic town has many majestic monuments, palaces, and an array of temples.

  • The spectacular Kumbhalgarh fort at the foothills of the Aravalli hills is a magnificent sight.

  • The Kumbhalgarh wildlife sanctuary is blessed with an exciting terrain and unique animal species.

  • The wall of the Kumbhalgarh Fort is the second-longest continuous wall in the world!

What to do in Kumbhalgarh?

  • Take a lion safari at the Kumbalgarh wildlife sanctuary.

  • Pay homage to Lord Shiva at the Neelkanth Mahadevo temple and the Mammadev temple.

  • Visit the spellbinding Badal Mahal.

City of Lakes - Udaipur

Famously known as the “Venice of the east”, or the city of lakes, Udaipur is a stunning place located in the state of Rajasthan.

Why visit Udaipur?

  • Udaipur has a rich cultural background and a great heritage.

  • The influence of the Rajput rule era is visible in the architectural grandeur of the palaces.

  • The place is abundantly blessed with natural lakes and reserves.

  • The entire city looks lush and green during the beautiful monsoon season.

What to do in Udaipur?

  • Take a tour of the City Palace museum.

  • Take a boat ride on the Pichola lake during sunset.

  • Visit the Jagdish temple.

  • Savour Rajasthani cuisine at the Darikhana restaurant in the Lake garden palace.

  • Take a trip to the vintage car museum.

  • Shop for handicrafts at the Shilpgram.

Andaman and Nicobar Islands

These shimmering islands with pristine beaches and azure waters have an enigmatic charm that lures thousands of tourists every year.

Why visit the Andamans?

  • The seamless beauty of the islands blends in with the history of the British rule in India.

  • The beautiful coral reefs and the throbbing underwater life is the highlight of Andaman.

  • One of the top honeymoon destinations in India.

  • The place is blessed with Scenic terrains and thick forests.

What to do in the Andamans?

  • Take a stroll on one of Asia’s best beaches, the Radhanaga beach on Havelock Island.

  • Experience world-class scuba diving and sea walking

  • Take a boat safari through thick mangrove forests at the Baratang Island.

  • Trek to the “saddle peak” and camp under the moonlit sky.

Tips for Travellers in India

  • Every part of India has a unique local cuisine of its own. To be on the safer side, it is always best to carry medicines for an upset stomach!
  • Make sure to be cautious of theft and scam during the whole trip.
  • To avoid any last-minute hassles, it is advised to always book your stay and plan your itinerary well before travel.
  • Upon reaching your travel destination, make sure to note down local emergency contact numbers.
  • Respect the locals and always be mindful of their sentiments.
Writer
Rubina Cheruvalath
Rubina is a free thinker and a dreamer. She believes that there is something to be learnt from everything. In spite of securing a technical education, Rubina chose to think beyond it and work in the management field. A proud mum of two boys, she aspires to explore the world with her family and create cherishable memories.

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Don't Forget to Carry Enough Cash!

While visiting the various places around India, don't forget to carry enough cash. Although you will be able to find ways for cashless transactions at almost all the mentioned places, however, many remote places still do not have the means of using online banking or other modes of doing transactions. Carrying enough cash would mean one less thing to worry about for a hassle-free trip.