From tasting Mumbai’s rich culinary creations to being doused in brightly hued powder during the country’s colorful Holi festival, a visit to this ancient land is a feast for the senses. Here are our top ten must-do activities during a trip to India.
## **#1 Discover India’s Wildlife Treasures on a Captivating Nature Safari**
Venture into the heart of India’s mesmerizing jungles, lush forests, and protected national parks, where nature’s giants roam freely. Imagine encountering majestic tigers, gentle elephants, and the unique one-horned rhinoceros in their natural environments. In **Ranthambore National Park**, prepare for an unforgettable adventure as you embark on open-air Jeep safari rides, offering prime opportunities to witness the elusive Bengal tigers, along with a diverse array of other fascinating animals, including vibrant peacocks displaying their iridescent plumage and lumbering bears foraging for sustenance. The thrill of spotting these creatures in their natural surroundings is an experience unlike any other.
You can also embark on an exploratory journey to **Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve** in Madhya Pradesh, a sprawling and breathtaking reserve that showcases resplendent temples and ancient shrines nestled amidst the dense tropical forest. Here, the primary focus is, unsurprisingly, tigers (hence the evocative name!), but you’ll also encounter other captivating wildlife, such as cunning wild boars, graceful leopards stealthily navigating the undergrowth, and a host of other fascinating creatures that call this sanctuary home. This reserve promises a rich and diverse wildlife viewing experience.
**Pench National Park**, a sprawling natural wonderland that extends across the states of Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra, is believed to be the very inspiration for Rudyard Kipling’s beloved classic, *The Jungle Book*. This captivating area is a veritable biodiversity hotspot, teeming with an astonishing array of life. Nearly 200 distinct species of birds and mammals share this remarkable ecosystem, coexisting harmoniously within the lush forests, serene lakes, and expansive meadows. For those eager to witness the rare and elusive one-horned rhinoceros in its natural habitat, **Kaziranga National Park** in Assam stands as the ultimate destination. Here, you might also be fortunate enough to catch a fleeting glimpse of majestic Asian elephants gracefully moving through the landscape, or observe herds of powerful buffalo grazing peacefully. And in the southern reaches of Karnataka, the **Nagarhole Tiger Reserve** provides a sanctuary for a significant concentration of Asian elephants, along with the ever-elusive tigers and sleek leopards, creating a compelling tapestry of wildlife encounters.
## **#2 Find Inner Peace and Tranquility at a Yoga Retreat**
What better place to perfect your downward dog or deepen your meditation practice than in the actual birthplace of yoga itself? On the sacred banks of the **Ganges**, the picturesque hill station of **Rishikesh** is often affectionately referred to as the “yoga capital of the world,” drawing practitioners and spiritual seekers from across the globe. This tranquil haven offers a unique and authentic atmosphere for exploring the ancient practice of yoga and connecting with your inner self.
**Parmarth Niketan** stands as the largest and most prominent *ashram* (a spiritual center of profound significance) in Rishikesh, providing a serene and idyllic sanctuary for practicing yoga on the hallowed banks of the sacred river. Imagine the peace and tranquility as you perform your asanas with the gentle flow of the Ganges providing a soothing backdrop. Alternatively, **Omkarananda Patanjali Yoga Kendra** in Rishikesh presents another truly spectacular location for an immersive week or two dedicated to escaping the relentless demands and ceaseless noise of city life. This retreat offers a chance to truly breathe deeply, reconnect with your inner essence, and deepen your understanding and practice of yoga in a supportive and nurturing environment.
For those seeking more modern accommodations and a different kind of yoga experience, the bohemian beach enclave of **Goa** is home to **Purple Valley**. This center offers an ideal setting for practicing *Ashtanga* yoga in a contemporary and comfortable setting. Mindfulness becomes significantly easier when you have a dedicated Ayurvedic chef meticulously preparing healthy and nourishing meals specifically tailored to your needs and preferences. A gorgeous Indo-Portuguese house, complete with a meticulously manicured garden, will become your home away from home for the duration of your rejuvenating stay.
In the charming and picturesque coastal city of **Pondicherry**, the **International Centre for Yoga Education and Research** provides a classical and rigorous style of teaching, accompanied by a strictly vegetarian menu, catering to the more serious and dedicated yogi. This center emphasizes the traditional roots of yoga, offering a deep and immersive experience for those seeking a comprehensive understanding of the practice.
## **#3 Explore Historic and Sacred Sites that Echo with Timeless Significance**
You are likely already acquainted with India’s most renowned historic site, the iconic Taj Mahal. This architectural masterpiece stands as one of the Seven Wonders of the World, a romantic marble jewel of a mausoleum that serves as a timeless testament to the enduring love of Emperor Shah Jahan for his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. Its exquisite beauty and historical significance make it an essential destination for any traveler to India.
Other must-visit sacred sites that beckon with their historical and spiritual importance include the magnificent **Amber Fort** in **Jaipur**, a formidable structure built by Maharaja Man Singh in 1592, and the opulent city palace in **Udaipur**. This grand and sprawling complex took nearly 400 years to complete, and its picturesque views of the shimmering **Lake Pichola** have remained largely unchanged throughout the centuries, offering a glimpse into a bygone era.
Though it receives fewer tourist visitors than its Rajasthani counterparts, **Bodh Gaya** is a mystical and profoundly spiritual place in its own right. **The Mahabodhi Temple Complex**— located in Bodh Gaya — holds immense significance as the site where Siddhartha Gautama is said to have attained enlightenment, becoming the Buddha. A descendant of the very Bodhi tree under which he meditated still stands here to this very day, a living testament to this pivotal moment in history. Other notable sites that warrant exploration include **The Konark Sun Temple**, a masterpiece of ancient Indian architecture; the vibrant **Meenakshi Temple**, dedicated to the goddess Meenakshi; and the **Khajuraho Temple**, renowned for its intricate and expressive sculptures.
## **#4 Immerse Yourself in the Vibrancy of India’s Most Colorful Holiday**
India’s kinetic and exhilarating “festival of colors” is an experience that overwhelms the senses in the most delightful way. The Hindu festival of **Holi** is a vibrant celebration of spring, commencing with solemn religious rituals performed in front of a crackling bonfire. The following morning erupts into a joyous color free-for-all, with intense powdered hues bursting across city streets and enveloping everyone in a kaleidoscope of vibrant shades. You’ll find yourself seamlessly integrated into the festivities, as people from all walks of life enthusiastically participate in this unique and unforgettable celebration.
No cities embrace the spirit of Holi more fervently than **Vrindhavan** and **Mathura,** where you’ll be completely covered from head to toe in bright powder, and where buckets of color and water guns relentlessly target you from every possible angle. The sheer energy and exuberance of this celebration are truly infectious.
## **#5 Embark on a Culinary Adventure to Discover Mumbai’s Unique Creations**
The crispy and flavorful *bhel puri*, bursting with a symphony of spices, tangy chutneys, and puffed rice, and the delicate and savory *dosas* are just a few of the popular dishes that await you in the bustling coastal city of **Mumbai**. The cuisine of India exhibits remarkable diversity from region to region, with Mumbai boasting a particularly distinct culinary identity, thanks to its incredibly diverse population and rich heritage.
In Mumbai, where a significant community of Parsis (followers of the Zoroastrian faith) resides, you’ll discover unique delicacies such as the breakfast staple of *akuri*— a tongue-tingling combination of scrambled eggs infused with the aromatic flavors of ginger, garlic, onions, tomatoes, red chili, green chiles, and cilantro. Another popular dish native to Mumbai is *bombil*, more commonly known as Bombay Duck. Despite its somewhat misleading name, it’s actually a fish that’s exclusively found in the waters surrounding the city, lightly battered in a spiced gram flour and then deep-fried to crispy perfection.
Other popular street food dishes that should not be missed include *vada pav*, a deep-fried potato dumpling sandwich generously slathered with fresh chutneys, and *pav bhaji*, a flavorful vegetable curry served with a soft and buttery roll. And to complete your culinary journey, indulge in the luscious milkshake-like concoction of *falooda*, an amalgamation of sweetly perfumed rose syrup, delicate vermicelli noodles, plump basil seeds, creamy milk, and decadent ice cream. This is an absolute must-try when visiting this vibrant cultural capital.
## **#6 Undertake a Transformative Trek in the Majestic Himalaya**
The awe-inspiring Himalaya range traverses **India**, **Nepal**, **Tibet**, **Pakistan**, and **Bhutan**, creating an otherworldly landscape that captivates the senses. This majestic mountain range is home to ten of the world’s tallest peaks, offering breathtaking panoramic views, challenging and rewarding hikes, and a chance to encounter spectacular wildlife in its natural habitat. Trekking opportunities are particularly plentiful in the Eastern Himalaya, attracting adventurers and nature enthusiasts from around the globe.
Hill stations are dotted throughout the range, acting as navigational markers and points of reference, much like trailheads. For a more moderate trek, begin your journey at the rolling tea plantations of **Darjeeling**, followed by an invigorating trek over the **Singalila Ridge**, which forms the natural border between India and Nepal. From this vantage point on the ridge, you’ll be rewarded with unparalleled views of iconic peaks like the world-famous **Mt**. **Everest** and the majestic **Chomolhari.** Alternatively, a trek to the hill station of **Sikkim** promises breathtaking vistas of **Kanchenjunga**, the third highest mountain in the world. For those seeking a lush, jungle-like atmosphere, a hike through **Talle Valley Arunachal** will lead you through vibrant tropical forests and reveal unbelievable views that will leave you in awe.
## **#7 Indulge in the Opulence of a Former Palace for an Unforgettable Night**
It’s time to embrace your inner *maharaja* and experience the lavish lifestyle of India’s royalty. Immerse yourself in India’s opulent history by staying at one of the many luxurious palaces that have been transformed into heritage hotels, each offering a unique glimpse into a bygone era. The floating **Taj Lake Palace**, perched serenely in Udaipur’s shimmering Lake Pichola, is a stunning marble jewel originally built by Maharana Jagat Singh in the 18th century. This iconic palace exudes romance and grandeur, offering an unforgettable experience. Alternatively, head to Jaipur’s exquisite **Rambagh Palace**, a former hunting lodge that was once the residence of the Maharaja of Jaipur. This palace has been meticulously restored and transformed into one of India’s most sought-after and opulent retreats, where you can experience the ultimate in luxury and pampering.
Nestled amidst the rolling Aravali Hills, **RAAS Devigarh** is a spectacular resort that showcases a captivating blend of modern white interiors splashed with gorgeous hues of yellow, green, and gold. This resort offers a collection of inviting courtyards and private balconies reminiscent of a Rajasthani fairytale, creating a truly magical and unforgettable experience. And in Jodhpur, the stunning **Umaid Bhawan Palace** stands as an architectural gem, boasting lush gardens and over three hundred art-deco style rooms, each meticulously designed and decorated to offer the ultimate in comfort and style.
## **#8 Embark on a Camel Safari Adventure in Jaisalmer**
The quintessential desert town of **Jaisalmer** serves as the perfect starting point for a romantic and unforgettable camel safari through the dreamy golden dunes of the vast **Thar desert**. This unique experience offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to trek alongside majestic camels and gaze at the mesmerizing stars that illuminate the desert sky – the desert is arguably at its most breathtakingly beautiful during the night.
Trips generally include dining al fresco on delectable local fare, expertly cooked over an open fire, witnessing the awe-inspiring sunset over the rippling sands, and sleeping under the stars in the serene silence of the desert. Throughout the camel safari experience, you’ll likely make stops in small, authentic villages along the way, providing opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture and interact with the warm and welcoming residents.
## **#9 Shop Like a Local and Discover Hidden Treasures**
Exploring the local markets is a thrilling and immersive way to experience Indian culture firsthand, offering the added reward of discovering and acquiring stunning, one-of-a-kind pieces. Whether you’re interested in vibrant silk *kurtas* adorned with intricate hand-stitched embroidery or exquisite gold jewelry embellished with shining rubies and emeralds, there are countless opportunities for shopping throughout the country, each region offering its own distinct specialities and unique finds.
Mumbai’s sprawling **Colaba Causeway** market, for instance, is renowned as one of the best in the city. Here, you’ll find an eclectic mix of everything from stylish purses and comfortable leather slippers to shimmering silver jewelry and intricate tapestries that reflect the rich artistic traditions of the region. Jaipur’s bustling **Johari Bazar** has something to appeal to every taste and preference, including traditional gold Rajasthani jewels, precious stones, comfortable and stylish Jaipuri quilts, and handcrafted clothing available at hundreds of different stores. If you find yourself in Goa, the vibrant beach-side **Anjuna market**, held only on Wednesdays, is an ideal destination for discovering unique handicrafts, sampling delicious street food, and enjoying the lively atmosphere of live music performances.
## **#10 Experience the Serenity of Kerala by Boat**
The labyrinthine network of lagoons that make up Kerala’s sparkling backwaters are an absolute must-see and are best experienced from the vantage point of a boat. This southern state is also blessed with some of India’s most beautiful beaches and the majestic tea-covered hills of the Western Ghats, offering a diverse range of natural landscapes to explore.
The intricate maze of backwaters can be experienced on a day-tour via one of the reputable local boating outfitters. For an even more immersive and magical experience, consider staying on a traditional houseboat for a night or two while you gently cruise through the network of tropical waterways. This will allow you to witness the breathtaking beauty of sunrise and sunset right on the water, creating an unforgettable and deeply enriching experience.
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