Indian people have for centuries enjoyed being a major part in the development of philosophy and much more: the sciences and mathematics. Their culture has a respectable history of the arts and a wealth of beautiful architecture. Our guide will walk you through ten of the best destinations to fulfil your holiday dreams for those are what bring you to India in the first place. Read on and enjoy.
True to the rich culture and heritage India has, the people have a lot to celebrate in their religion and community. What is remarkable about the festivals is the use of vibrant colors and playful acts in dance and movement. If you are thinking of a holiday in India this summer, we recommend you look forward to the following festivals:
The Thrissur Pooram festival is held towards the end of April and would be a memorable experience especially for children. The temple festival is one of the most popular and spectacular held in Kerala with its processions of elephants and percussion performing artists.
The start of May brings the Ao Naga tribal festival. A celebration of joy and fun with excitement for the local tribal communities. Enjoy the festive spirit of folk music and tribal dance and of course the traditional food of these people as they look towards a prosperous year. From the start of June each year there is the International Shimla Summer festival. A busy, full week of celebrations and a party atmosphere:
The live performances are by amateur and renowned artists from all over the world. One of the largest festivals held in India the Shimla Summer festival is a tourist magnet. Just as massive as the Shimla festival is the Gangaur festival held throughout Rajasthan mid-March through to April.
To many in Rajasthan the Gangaur festival is their most important religious celebration. For two weeks there is an unyielding passion and grandeur put on show for the worship of Goddess Gauri. If you happen to be in Jaipur during this time then do get involved in this festival for the folk dance and the puppet shows and food. The firework displays are pretty spectacular too.
No matter what festivals you attend when on holiday to India you will undoubtedly come across the Indian staple of Puri bread. You must try this as a snack or as part of a meal. The bread has a puffed-out appearance which happens when the flatbread is fried in hot oil. Almost round in shape the bread has a crispy outer shell golden in color. Best eaten fresh as soon as they've cooled down.
There are amazing destinations catering to every traveler and their dreams. Every experience is timeless and for many of you for that reason, you will return again and again. As we said earlier, India's architecture takes your breath away. As you travel you are going to come across some amazing achievements:
Each building has an incredible feeling of grandeur, size and of historic value and still to this day, influences so many people's lives. There are so much architectural wonders, sadly we must leave it to another guide for those:
A city with history on display and yet little has aged. There are ancient monuments and tombs and temples strewn everywhere with modern life somehow managing to find a little light to flourish. India's capital has so much wealth of culture and religion it is unimaginable how one would want to spend their holiday to India anywhere else other than Delhi.
So many sights in the city but the few that attracted us the most were:
Built in 1986 the Lotus Temple is a significant attraction amongst tourists purely from the architectural point of view. Although it is a temple there is no religious attachment to it therefore the only reason it has drawn in over 100 million visitors is the beauty of the craftmanship. Humayun’s Tomb on the other hand, completed in 1570, has influence from the Islamic Persian period.
The tomb is positioned ideally by the banks of the Yamuna River celebrating the life of Emperor Humayun and built by the emperor's oldest wife Bega Begum. What is eye-catching about the complex ― apart from the astonishing architecture ― is the garden splendor and its fountains.
Before settling into your holiday proper another site on your bucket list has to be the India Gate. The 42-meter-high war memorial was built after the first world war in remembrance of India's war dead. Since then, the monument has a black marble cenotaph remembering thousands of martyrs from the Indian Pakistan war. The Amar Jawan Jyoti flame is always lit on the gate.
For an afternoon of freedom from the hustle and bustle of the city we recommend you take a long, well-earned rest in Nehru Park. The park has seating to enjoy the peace and quiet. Sit and reflect upon your experiences and marvel over the gardens. However, if that proves to be too boring for you then head to Old Delhi's Chandni Chowk Street.
Chaos reigns as people jostle for space. The street is one of the busiest in the city, jam-packed. Take a deep breath and venture inward. Only once inside this human mass do you learn the cause of such madness: it's a free-for-all shopping frenzy. There are pop up shops everywhere selling all kinds of traditional Indian crafts and gifts, clothing, and sought after souvenirs.
Unlike other capital cities in the world, shopping here isn't expensive but the goods remain of high quality all the same. And some of the most delicious street food in Delhi can be found here. It's sounds crazy but you wouldn't want to miss this.
As tourist destinations go, Agra surpasses that of the capital. That may come across as strange, the reason why becomes all too clear the moment you stand in front of the Taj Mahal. People from all over India ― never mind the rest of the world ― come to be blown away by this beauty.
Very few other attractions in the world will make you want to fall to your knees like this one does. Yes, it truly takes your breath away. With Delhi and Jaipur, Agra completes what has been known as the "Golden Triangle" of tourism, for India.
A short distance out of Jaipur you find the Galtaji Hindu temple. A prehistoric pilgrimage site, the temple complex houses a number of shrines and pavilions along with natural springs. The natural spring water flows into what can only be described as a reservoir of which there are seven, thought to have holy significance. Inside the pink sandstone temple, the walls are covered in beautiful carvings and paintings with painted pillars and prominent roof features.
Often referred to as the "Monkey Temple", Galtaji is ideally positioned with views over onto the city of Jaipur. The atmosphere is serene and peaceful and it would be a nice day trip. Noticeably, surrounding the temple are rocky outcrops but the flat ground is covered in grass and deciduous trees. The appearance is unforgiving, perhaps it feels empty and of no worth to you but not so.
The area is home to a wildlife sanctuary. Once the hunting grounds for Maharaja of Alwar, the reserve is now home to the majestic Royal Bengal Tigers. Quite some distance away from Jaipur though, at 130km out.
Something a little closer to home may interest you? Look for Bhangarh Fort but the history is a little spooky. Enter the city ruins to discover temples and palaces. Deeper inside there are four gates to pass through to gain access to the fort proper with the Royal Palace located at the far end. Whilst there are convenient transport links both from Jaipur and Delhi be aware of the legends of the ruins being haunted.
You will wish to visit Ambazari Lake & Garden to cool off. Although there is a half dozen or more lakes in Nagpur to see, Ambazari is the largest and most popular of them all. The cherry on the cake is the garden with an abundance of flowering fauna and flora. The entire experience is beautiful but if you want fun packed action then head for lake Khindsi instead.
There you can enjoy many popular water sports and for children there's an amusement park. With India's largest boating center based here, sailing is your immediate thoughts. Before moving onto the next destination, it would be a shame not to mention, in passing of two gardens.
There's the Japanese Rose Garden and the Lata Mangeshkar Musical Garden. The best time to visit the musical garden is in the evening for the enlightening melodies and songs by the famous singer. The rose garden is a complete replica of a rose garden you would find in Japan.
One of Ahmedabad's best kept secrets is the Sabarmati River. The riverfront is well maintained with walking and cycling lanes so you could easily enjoy an early afternoon stroll or cycle ride after a light lunch, couldn't you? Head towards the Biodiversity Park on route for the birdlife and suddenly your enveloped with nature and bird song.
Get out of the city for the day and direct your attention to Bayad for the Zanzari Waterfall, about 70km eastward. Although there are a number of small cafes and restaurants within arm's reach, we suggest you pack a picnic. Find a quiet spot and enjoy your surroundings and the sound of water which is known to release tension.
If fashion interests you then visit the Calico Museum which is a show case for Mughal period textiles and artefacts. The museum also has a gallery of paintings and sculptures of the era. As with many attractions we advise you to book online and in advance.
Varanasi is better known as the "City of Temples" for the thousands of temples in and around close proximity to it.
This ancient city is one of the holiest places for Hindu worshipers. The center of attention surely is the Banaras ghats ― a set of steps leading down to the Ganges River. Hindus descend the steps early in the morning to submerse themselves. Washing away their sins only to return in the evening for prayer ceremonies.
We're not suggesting you do the same of course but you could take a sunrise cruise on the river. There are plenty of boats that will take you for a private tour. You would do no worse than to start asking around at Dasaswamedh Ghat. Step outside the city and make a short journey to Sarnath, a village where you will find Dhamek Stupa.
Built 1,500 years ago over the remains of the original that dates back to 240BC. Over 43 meters high and 28 meters in diameter the structure is a symbol of Buddhism. Walking around the structure and site you see etched into the sandstone walls a number of carvings. The village is interesting from a cultural perspective with other attractions close by: Chaukhandi Stupa and there's the Sarnath Museum.
Finish up with a sightseeing trip to the Tibetan Temple before heading back to Varanasi.
Along India's Bay of Bengal is the 6km Marina Beach and famously one of the widest stretching from over 400 meters from the road edge to the sea. The beach pulls in tourists from all over the world for the golden sands and turquoise blue waters. If you enjoy swimming in crashing waves, then this beach is for you. Horse rides during the day with a carnival festival atmosphere in the evening setting the mood perfectly for the beautiful sunset on the ocean horizon.
Fortunately, there is more than the beach front for you. At some point you will want to go shopping and it only makes sense we bring your attention to Thyagaraya Nagar. You can buy pretty much anything you want, from jewelry and clothing to everyday household items. Just be ready to negotiate with the crowds, the streets are swamped.
At some point if you feel the need to escape the city then head to Mahabalipuram which is about one hour's travel south of Chennai. The ancient historic town was once a busy port city many centuries ago but now the attraction is ruinous temples. One which still stands and most famously of all is the Shore Temple. There are cave sanctuaries depicting different scenes from mythology and Gods:
The monuments have been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site. The next attraction is entertainment for all age groups in the form of arts and culture. The Kalakshetra Foundation is a cultural academy transforming the perception of Indian traditions for interested audiences. Their focus is on the classical movements of Bharatanatyam dance, this being one of eight forms of classical dancing.
The performers also use Gandharvaveda music to express themselves, adding considerably to your enjoyment and amazement. By the way, just a short distance down the coast from Chennai brings you to the old French colonial city of Puducherry. Well worth considering a visit.
What you cannot escape from in Bangalore are the lakes. There are, without question, hundreds of them: large and small, they're everywhere. We're pleased there are so many because bodies of water attract wildlife and migratory birds making Bangalore a pleasure for nature lovers. For this destination the guide will focus on what are the best lakes:
Starting off with Lal Bagh Lake because it comes with a botanical garden intact. The park and lake are super family friendly of course with one major attraction being that the children can feed the fish.
What springs to mind at the sight of Hesaraghatta Lake is a bird sanctuary. Lush greenery is everywhere and the cause of so many birds singing their hearts out. Many local bird species converge on the lake and grasslands transforming the lake into a paradise for bird watchers. Incredible sunsets and the monsoon season don't put you out either ― if anything, the experience is even more rewarding.
Agara Lake is Bangalore's oldest lake, dated as far back as the 8th century. But you couldn't imagine so. A cool breeze brushes off the lake onto the fauna and flora fanning an aroma that's polite on your senses. A play area for children with a purpose-built jogging track for fitness fanatics. On leaving the lake grounds you are hungry there are street vendors nearby if you're curious what's on the menu.
If the city of Bangalore is too much for you then escape to quieter times at Lake Avathi. We suggest at least a two-day break because you are close to the Nandi Hills. Pack a picnic and spend a day exploring the lake enjoying the surrounding countryside and then go hiking for the views before returning to Bangalore reenergized.
Halasuru Lake in the very heart of Bangalore is one of the most popular lakes out of them all. Such peacefulness makes it impossible to believe you are in a city of 18 million. It appeals to everyone by offering a multitude of activities, including but not limited to:
Bird watching and the early morning sunrise also win over the crowds. High quality accommodation at hand, and cafes and restaurants offering authentic Indian and international cuisine are little extras that guarantee round the clock visitors. Statues of lord Ganesha and goddess Durga have their own miniature lake all to themselves, for the Ganesh Chaturthi and Durga Puja festival rituals.
Despite the asphalt and concrete of a large metropolis Bangalore is a pure joy and treat for nature lovers and we strongly advise you do your darndest to visit.
This is the "City of Dreams" according to one package holiday brochure and yes, there are enough attractions and excitement happening to make your holiday feel as if it were a dream. So much variety of activity Mumbai is a city that is family friendly from the word go.
We recommend you start your sightseeing with the Gateway of India. A colonial throwback to the early 1900's and King George V, the monument stands proud in architectural grandeur. Standing 26 meters in height there is a glimpse of Islamic influence: the four pillars and domes are tell-tale signs.
In the background you have the Arabian Sea and within walking distance there is the Elephanta Caves and Taj Mahal Palace Hotel. The caves are found on the Island in the Arabian sea and the namesake is after the elephant that was built there. The caves are one of the finest examples and works of art by India's pre medieval people.
One lot of caves are Hindu in origin and the others are of Buddhism. All caves continue to have religious significance but for us our appreciation was in the history and beauty of the rock sculptures. The details are remarkably clear and you can't help but be amazed at what you discover, moving around the maze of caves and openings. The elephant carved from rock is huge, but this cave system is akin to the Tardis. Go and see for yourself.
It would be cruel of us not to mention Juhu Beach. There is Girgaon Chowpatty Beach but it's unsuitable for sunbathing and relaxation because of the constant crowds ― why we prefer Juhu instead. In our opinion there are nicer views and tastier food, but the activities are much more fun too. How often do you get to ride on a camel? That's right. There are camel and horse rides along the length of the beach. Jolly good fun.
All beaches in Mumbai have a vibrant nightlife with late-night restaurants, bars and nightclubs for those who want to let their hair down and party.
There are two worlds to this city: one on either side of the Musi River. Arriving in Hyderabad by international or domestic flight, the modern part of the city welcomes you. Gaze up at towering glass giants as they glisten in the sun, and you accept that it's "just another urbanized jungle". It is but there's a hidden side, south of the river. And that's where we're going to take you.
The Old City is proud of its own Arc de Triomphe, the Charminar of Hyderabad was built by Sultan Mohammed Quli Qutb Shah in celebration of his wife Bhagmati. The monument stands a mighty impressive 56m tall. The best time for viewing is in the evening once it has been lit up, showing off the 4 towers of this Islamic Mosque very well. Visitors are welcome inside, however do observe religious dress etiquette.
The Qutub Shahi Tombs were built by the Qutub Shahi dynasty Kings. There are seven tombs, one for each King and close to the Golconda Fort. Light grey in color the granite tombs architecture appears to be Persian in origin but with Indian influence, each decorated exquisitely in fine artistry design. The tombs are found within Ibrahim Bagh gardens, here you can enjoy the beautifully landscaped gardens whilst picnicking.
The importance in India as an Islamic Heritage site, the Qutub Shahi Tombs are Hyderabad's oldest and most historical monuments. The dynasty ruled for 170 years and this site is the only one in the world that has an entire dynasty all together, in one place. That is truly astonishing. It's no surprise the tombs have both state and national protection.
Malaysia has some amazing modern religious architecture but even we must admit that India comes out on top for their modern architecture wonders. It's the Taj Mahal, isn't it? Not only does the mausoleum present itself as being pure but its India's symbolism for patience and tolerance for all art and religion, equally measured.
Hello, we are George and Elle Mae Melyre.
Over the years, amidst work and family life, we have traveled extensively throughout Asia. Any chance to briefly escape or properly holiday in our beloved Asian destinations is eagerly seized, motivated by the enduring dream of leaving behind the UK's dreary cold for tropical climes.