Things to Do in India: A Traveler’s Guide

India, a land of astounding diversity and vibrant culture, invites travelers to embark on a journey through its colorful landscapes and rich historical tapestry. Among the myriad things to do in India, visitors can explore ancient forts, majestic palaces, and serene temples, each telling a story of the country’s rich heritage.

In the bustling streets of Mumbai, the Gateway of India stands as a symbol of colonial history and modern progress. Not far away, the serene beaches of Goa offer a tranquil escape with their golden sands and crystal-clear waters.

For those seeking spiritual enlightenment, the holy city of Varanasi presents a profound experience along the sacred Ganges River. Meanwhile, the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas in the north offers trekking, mountaineering, and the opportunity to witness nature at its most majestic.

Experiencing the diverse culinary delights is a must-do in India, where each region offers its unique flavors and dishes. This vast country ensures that visitors are always just a step away from an unforgettable adventure, making India a perfect destination for those who seek to immerse themselves in a world of cultural richness and natural beauty.

Travel Tip: For travelers seeking internet connectivity, consider opting for the eSim India to ensure a seamless and reliable connection.

Attractions & Things to Do in India

1. Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal, located in Agra, is an ivory-white marble mausoleum on the south bank of the Yamuna river. It was commissioned in 1632 by the Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan, to house the tomb of his favorite wife, Mumtaz Mahal.

Travel Tip: Try to visit at sunrise or sunset for a breathtaking view of the monument in the soft light, and less crowd.

2. Jaipur City Palace

Jaipur City Palace, located in the heart of the Pink City, Jaipur, is a stunning complex of courtyards, gardens, and buildings with a blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture. It was built between 1729 and 1732, initially by Sawai Jai Singh II.

Travel Tip: Don’t miss the intricate peacock gates at the palace’s entrance and consider hiring a guide to fully appreciate its history.

3. Varanasi Ghats

The Varanasi Ghats are a series of steps leading down to the River Ganges in the city of Varanasi. They are used for bathing, laundry, and cremation ceremonies, and are a central part of Hindu culture.

Travel Tip: Take an early morning boat ride for a serene experience and to see the ghats come alive with spiritual activities.

4. Kerala Backwaters

The Kerala Backwaters are a network of brackish lagoons and lakes lying parallel to the Arabian Sea coast in Kerala. A houseboat stay offers an unforgettable experience of the region’s serene beauty and unique way of life.

Travel Tip: Book a houseboat for an overnight stay to experience the backwaters’ tranquility and the stunning sunrise over the water.

5. Gateway of India

The Gateway of India is an arch-monument built in the early 20th century in the city of Mumbai, Maharashtra. It overlooks the Mumbai harbor and was constructed to commemorate the landing of King George V and Queen Mary at Apollo Bunder on their visit to India.

Travel Tip: Visit early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the crowds and enjoy the cool sea breeze.

6. Golden Temple

The Golden Temple, also known as Harmandir Sahib, is a gurdwara located in the city of Amritsar, Punjab. It is the holiest Gurdwara and the most important pilgrimage site of Sikhism.

Travel Tip: Experience the Langar, a free community kitchen and meal, regardless of religion, gender, or ethnicity.

7. Hampi

Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a village and temple town recognized for its historic ruins, located in northern Karnataka. It was one of the richest and largest cities in the world during its prime.

Travel Tip: Rent a bicycle or a moped to explore the sprawling archaeological sites comfortably.

8. Ranthambore National Park

Ranthambore National Park in Rajasthan is one of the largest national parks in northern India, known for its tiger population. It’s also home to a variety of other wildlife, including leopards and marsh crocodiles.

Travel Tip: Opt for a morning safari for the best chance to spot tigers and other wildlife as they are more active during this time.

9. Jaisalmer Fort

Jaisalmer Fort, located in the heart of the Thar Desert in Rajasthan, is one of the world’s largest fully preserved fortified cities. Its golden sandstone walls are a spectacular sight at sunset, earning it the nickname “Sonar Quila” or “Golden Fort”.

Travel Tip: Stay in one of the fort’s havelis (traditional mansions) for a unique experience of living within this ancient structure.

10. Konark Sun Temple

Konark Sun Temple is a 13th-century CE sun temple at Konark, about 35 kilometers northeast from Puri on the coastline of Odisha, India. The temple is attributed to king Narasimhadeva I of the Eastern Ganga Dynasty and is dedicated to the Hindu sun god Surya.

Travel Tip: Visit during the early morning to appreciate the temple’s intricate architecture in the soft light and avoid the heat of the day.

11. Mysore Palace

Mysore Palace, located in Mysore, Karnataka, is a historical palace and a royal residence. It is the official residence of the Wadiyar dynasty and the seat of the Kingdom of Mysore.

Travel Tip: Witness the palace illuminated with thousands of lights on Sunday evenings and during the Dasara festival for a mesmerizing view.

12. Mahabodhi Temple

The Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an ancient Buddhist temple in Bodh Gaya, marking the location where the Buddha is said to have attained enlightenment. Bodh Gaya is located about 96 kilometers from Patna, Bihar.

Travel Tip: Participate in the daily meditation sessions available for visitors to experience peace and serenity.

13. Kaziranga National Park

Kaziranga National Park in Assam is a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its population of Indian one-horned rhinoceroses. The park hosts two-thirds of the world’s great one-horned rhinoceroses.

Travel Tip: Visit between November and April for the best wildlife viewing opportunities, as the park is closed during the monsoon season.

14. Udaipur’s Lake Pichola

Lake Pichola, situated in Udaipur, Rajasthan, is an artificial freshwater lake, created in the year 1362 AD. It’s surrounded by magnificent palaces, temples, bathing ghats, and hills on all sides.

Travel Tip: Take a boat ride at sunset for stunning views of the lake and the palaces.

15. The Living Root Bridges of Cherrapunji

The Living Root Bridges in Cherrapunji, Meghalaya, are natural bridges formed by the roots of the Ficus elastica tree. These bridges are a unique example of bioengineering by the Khasi and Jaintia peoples.

Travel Tip: Be prepared for a trek through the lush forest to reach these bridges. The journey is as beautiful as the destination.

16. Qutub Minar

Qutub Minar, located in Delhi, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and at 73 meters, is the tallest brick minaret in the world. It was constructed in 1193 by Qutb-ud-din Aibak, the founder of the Delhi Sultanate after the defeat of Delhi’s last Hindu kingdom.

Travel Tip: Visit late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and enjoy the structure’s impressive silhouette against the sunset.

17. Sundarbans National Park

The Sundarbans National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a tiger reserve located in the Sundarbans delta in the Indian state of West Bengal. It is home to the largest mangrove forest in the world and a large population of Bengal tigers.

Travel Tip: Opt for a multi-day boat tour to truly appreciate the biodiversity and the chance to see a Bengal tiger in the wild.

18. Meenakshi Amman Temple

Meenakshi Amman Temple is located in the city of Madurai, Tamil Nadu. It is dedicated to Meenakshi, a form of Parvati, and her consort, Sundareshwar, a form of Shiva. The temple is known for its towering gopurams (gateway towers), richly decorated with colorful sculptures.

Travel Tip: Don’t miss the evening ceremony, where the idol of Lord Shiva is carried to Meenakshi’s bedroom, symbolizing their eternal love.

19. Ajanta and Ellora Caves

The Ajanta and Ellora Caves, located in Maharashtra, are two of the largest rock-cut monastery-temple cave complexes in the world and are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. They contain some of the most exquisite ancient art in India, dating from the 2nd century BCE to about 480 or 650 CE.

Travel Tip: Allocate at least a day for each site to fully appreciate the art and architecture. The caves are extensive and deserve unhurried exploration.

FAQ About Things to Do in India

Sources:
https://www.getyourguide.com/india-l169037/