Let India take your breath away
The Taj Mahal, temples, historic caves filled with art and an island archipelago that’s beauty is endless is all that’s yours to discover on your trip to India. This country is full of culture and the food alone will leave the taste of India in your mouth for days. The memories of the sights and sounds will linger in your mind forever.
Whatever you decide to add to your Indian itinerary, make sure you visit a tea plantation, stop by the Taj Mahal – you can even hire your own photographer when you get there! Or travel to a national park to take in the wildlife wonders of this marvellous country. While you are there, watch a cricket match if you wish. There is more than enough activities to get the best of India. Pack your bags, buy your Rupees and go.
Incredible ways to discover the country
- Taj Mahal: Nobody can say they have been to India until they have visited the most popular tourist attraction in India. This World Heritage Site built between 1631 and 1648 is located on the southern bank of the Yamuna River in Agra. Emperor Shah Jahan had this iconic mausoleum built in memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal. Inside the mausoleum is a false tomb covered in carvings and precious stone. Mumtaz’s remains are actually below this tomb. Beautiful gardens surround the Taj Mahal. The gardens are divided by reflecting pools of water and the view from the outside of the Taj Mahal is simply breath-taking. For a sublime view of this magnificent monument, visit at sunrise or sunset.
- Agra Fort: This fort which resembles a walled city will impress any architectural buff and make for an interesting visit. Agra Fort is probably one of the finest Mughal forts in the country and dates back to 1565. The fort is constructed of red sandstone and nowadays is still utilised by the military. The public have access to buildings at the south entrance of the fort. Get a glimpse of the Pearl Mosque and the audience hall which houses a throne room. Also located here is the marble tower where Emperor Shah Jahan was imprisoned until his death. It’s recommended you take a guide on your visit to the fort to get a full picture of the history and the site itself.
- Caves of Ajanta: These caves were first discovered in 1819. They are filled with old Buddhist paintings and some pieces are even similar to Greek art. The caves which date back to the 1st century are a series of 30 prayer halls and monasteries set in a horseshoe shape. Paintings inside the cave depict everyday life and also contain statues and murals. Each cave has different things to see, so make sure you visit as many of caves as you can. There are guides who can take you through the caves as well. What an incredible attraction, be sure to visit. The Ajanta caves are also a World Heritage Site.
- Andaman Islands: These beautiful islands are situated in the middle of the Bay of Bengal. The awe-inspiring archipelago is covered in forest. Wildlife aplenty and birdwatches paradise, a visit here will leave you relaxed and refreshed. There are 572 islands in the region, with 36 of them being inhabited. Andaman Islands are ideal for scuba diving and snorkelling. Reefs circle the islands and the tropical marine life will give you hours of underwater viewing pleasure. The beaches will make you feel like you are in a dream world, such is their exquisiteness. For a wonderful getaway and to experience this great part of India, head to Andaman Islands. This place is a jewel.
- Corbett National Park: Asia’s oldest national Park, Corbett National Park is named after a British hunter, Edward James Corbett. The park is perfect for safaris, fishing and trekking and you can even ride an elephant when you visit. Another great attraction of the park is its large tiger population. Corbett National Park consists of 110 kinds of trees, 50 mammal species as well as reptiles. When you take a drive along the trails you may spot a Bengal Monitor Lizard. To help tourists get the most out of their visit, the park has been divided into 5 different sections. Admire some of the best India has to offer in terms of wildlife and scenery.
- Camel Safari: Something quite different to an African safari. This is a unique way to explore the deserts of India. The area of Jaisalmer is popular for camel safaris as they offer day trips to dunes close by and sunset camel rides. Otherwise, head to Pushkar where day safaris are offered as well as camel rides to villages. What makes a camel safari just as great, is visitors get to experience the desert at night while feasting on delicious food under the desert night sky. Add this activity on your itinerary for sure. You will not be disappointed.
- Golden Temple of Amritsar: The temple is a mixture of both Hindu and Muslim architecture. The Golden temple is a favourite among tourists and is a place of pilgrimage for Sikhs around the world. One reason the building is so popular among tourists is that they are allowed in the temple to share in the experience. Leave your shoes at the entrance and wash your feet before going inside. Make your way to the dining hall where a massive crowd of people are fed every day by volunteers. The Golden temple is also well-known for a tank of water which is said to have healing powers. Visitors will also find monuments and shrines around the temple complex.
- Visit a tea plantation: Ever wondered where your favourite tea comes from? Take a tour of a tea plantation. Travel to the mountains where some of the world’s best tea is made. The best places to visit are Assam, Darjeeling and Nilgiri. Assam is the largest tea producing area in India.
Excite your taste buds with these great dishes
Chole Bhature: This a Punjabi dish and is usually prepared for breakfast. The Bhature is a bread made from white flour and the Chole is a curry of Chickpeas. A popular food found on the streets of India, particularly in the north.
Samosa: Great for a snack, this is a deep-fried flour dish. It’s then stuffed with different ingredients such as potato, onions and chilli.
Papadam: This is a disc of dough cooked over a dry heat and accompanies many dishes in India.
Tandoori Chicken: Slow-cooked chicken marinated in yoghurt and spices. The chicken is cooked in an oven called a tandoor.
