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India Travel Guide: Must-Visit Places and How to Apply for Your Visa
Ready for an unforgettable adventure? India, with its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and vibrant festivals, is calling your name!
Whether you’re a traveller seeking a thrilling adventure, a cultural experience, or to embark on a culinary journey, India offers an experience like no other.
But before you pack your bags, let’s dive into the best things to do in India and how you can easily get your visa to make this dream trip a reality.
Best ways to experience India’s rich cultural heritage
India is home to an abundance of cultural treasures, and here are some of the best things to take in to truly experience it:
Explore India’s historical monuments and sites
India’s historical monuments and sites are windows into its past, showcasing architectural brilliance, cultural richness over the years and legacies that live on.
The Taj Mahal is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and is probably one of India’s most famous landmarks, and for good reason.
Its stunning architecture, majestic beauty and rich history make it a must-visit on your trip to India, offering a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will leave you in awe.
Embark on a journey through India’s Temples:
India is a treasure trove of temples, each a living testament to the country’s rich religious and artistic heritage.
From the vibrant hues of Badrinath to the intricate carvings of Khajuraho and the serene beauty of Jagannath, these sacred structures offer a captivating journey through time.
Discover a world of diverse architectural styles and profound spiritual significance as you explore these iconic landmarks, each with a storied past.
Unlock India’s royal secrets: explore India’s majestic palaces:
India is scattered with opulent palaces, each a captivating chapter in the country’s royal history.
From the majestic Mysore Palace to the ethereal Hawa Mahal, these architectural wonders are a stunning reflection of India’s rich cultural heritage.
Immerse yourself in history and luxury by visiting iconic palaces like Jaipur’s City Palace and Amber Fort, or Ujjayanta Palace.
Or.. For a truly unforgettable experience, consider even staying a night or two in one of these palaces. You heard that right, some of them have been transformed into world-class hotels, such as the Taj Falaknuma or Rambagh Palace!
These palaces are a testament to India’s rich cultural tapestry. Visiting at least one during your trip is a must!
Dive into India’s local arts and crafts
India’s rich cultural heritage is deeply intertwined with its arts and crafts, which vary significantly from region to region.
Exploring these traditional crafts offers a glimpse into the country’s diverse history and local traditions.
Here are some of the top arts and crafts that India has to offer:
Pottery
Indian pottery is an ancient craft that continues to thrive today. Each region with its own unique style.
From the renowned blue pottery of Khurja, the terracotta pottery from West Bengal and the black pottery of Manipur – this is an unmissable tradition for travellers to put on their itinerary!
Visiting a local potter’s workshop allows you to witness the intricate process of creating these beautiful pieces firsthand. Not only does this provide a unique, hands-on experience, but it also gives you a personal and meaningful souvenir to take home from your Indian adventures!
Jewellery
Indian jewellery is celebrated for its exquisite beauty and craftsmanship. From grand weddings to festive celebrations, these adornments are an integral part of Indian celebrations
Styles in crafting these pieces range from the intricate Kundan and Polki to the vibrant Meenakari methods, including uncut gemstone settings, colourful enamel work, and elaborate goldsmithing techniques; there’s an abundance of beauty and artistry to explore and appreciate.
Why not immerse yourself in this tradition by taking a jewellery-making class in India? Through a workshop, you’ll delve into the intricate history and techniques of traditional Indian jewellery, guided by skilled artisans. You’ll have the opportunity to create your own unique piece, making for a memorable and personal gift for loved ones.
Other crafts:
- See artisans silk making, block painting, go to Gujarat for tie-dye (Bandhani), or Kashmir for exquisite Pashmina shawls
Immerse yourself in India’s festivals and holidays
India is home to a dazzling array of festivals and holidays.
Here are some of the most spectacular celebrations you can experience:
- Diwali: Known as the festival of lights is one of India’s most widely celebrated festivals. It involves lighting oil lamps, bursting fireworks, and sharing sweets with loved ones. Homes and streets are adorned with vibrant decorations, creating a truly joyous atmosphere.
- Holi: is a Hindu festival that celebrates spring, love, and new life. During this time, participants cheerfully throw coloured powders and water at each other, dance to traditional music, and feast on special delicacies like gujiya and bhang thandai. If you’re in India during the time of February or March (depending on the year), be sure not to miss out on these festivities!
- Gujarat Kite Festival: This festival signifies the end of winter and the return of longer days. On the 14th of January, the sky fills with an array of kites of all shapes and sizes – it really is a sight like no other! One of the best places to enjoy this is at the Sabarmati Riverfront.
- Goa carnival:The Goa Carnival is an annual grand celebration featuring parades, colourful floats, street performances etc. With its roots in Portuguese traditions, the carnival showcases a blend of Indian and Western cultures. It is the largest carnival in India and takes place annually in the month of February or March, depending on the date of Easter.
- Lohri: This festival is primarily celebrated in Northern India and involves lighting bonfires, narrating tales, singing traditional songs, and dancing to the beat of dhol drums.
- Pushkar Festival: This is a vibrant and iconic camel fair held annually in the holy city of Pushkar, Rajasthan. This grand event attracts thousands of visitors from around the world to witness the unique blend of tradition, culture, and commerce. Witnessing the magnificent colours of the fair in the mesmerising desert landscape is a truly spectacular sight
Adventurous activities to do in India
India offers a wealth of adventurous activities across its diverse landscapes. From snow-capped mountains to sun-kissed beaches, India offers an exhilarating playground for adventure seekers. Whether you crave adrenaline-pumping thrills or serene outdoor escapes, this diverse country has it all and there’s something for every adventurer.
Let’s explore some of the incredible experiences waiting for you.
The Big 5 – Desert and Wildlife Safaris
Experience the thrill of spotting the Big Five – the Bengal tiger, Asiatic lion, leopard, Indian elephant, and one-horned rhinoceros – in their natural habitats. From the vast Thar Desert, best explored on a camel safari, to the thrilling wildlife encounters in national parks like Ranthambore and Gir, India offers unforgettable wildlife experiences.
Marine Wildlife – Marine National Park in Gujarat
India’s marine life is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Immerse yourself in the vibrant underwater ecosystems of Gujarat’s Marine National Park, encompassing the Gulf of Kutch and the Gulf of Khambhat. Snorkel or dive amidst colourful coral reefs, lush mangroves, and an incredible array of marine species.
Hot air balloon
Soar above the stunning landscapes and sights of India in a hot air balloon. This unique perspective offers breathtaking views and a peaceful experience high above the ground.
River cruises
Experience the tranquil beauty of India’s rivers on a river cruise! The River Gange or the backwaters of Kerala are definitely some you wouldn’t want to miss!
Flea market
Immerse yourself in the colourful chaos of India’s bustling bazaars. Explore iconic markets like Delhi’s Janpath or Mumbai’s Colaba Causeway, where you’ll find a treasure trove of unique souvenirs, handcrafted treasures, and vintage finds.
Caves
India is home to perhaps some of the most spectacular caves in this world, treasures of culture and history – full of breathtaking colourful paintings and archaeological wonders. All states have caves worth visiting, so be sure to uncover their secrets during your visit!
Trekking
From trekking in the Himalayas to the renowned Chadar Trek, India offers a vast range of treks for every type of traveller!
Enjoy India’s Beaches
Apart from relaxing in the sun, some of the most fun ways to enjoy India’s coasts include activities such as surfing the waves of Goa or even flyboarding!
Glamping
Combine luxury with nature through glamping in destinations. It makes for a unique experience with stunning natural backdrops.
Shopping in India
From traditional crafts, artisan jewellery to vibrant fashion , you can find some of the best spots to shop in Jaipur, Kashmir, Delhi, Chennai and Mumbai. However each of India’s cities have their own individual charm!
India’s top thrilling activities
- Skydiving
- Skiing
- Bungee jumping
- Ziplining
- Giant swing
- Paragliding
- Mountain biking
- Root bridges
- White water rafting & kayaking
Where can I experience authentic Indian cuisine?
India is undeniably, without a doubt, a dream destination for food enthusiasts or foodies. The vast subcontinent, with its immense population, boasts an incredible diversity of micro-cuisines, flavours and traditions.
With each city brimming with spots that showcase the best of local cooking – there are many ways to experience this whether you choose to dine in a restaurant, join a street food tour or even take part in a cooking class!
Here are some iconic culinary destinations to inspire your taste buds:
If you find yourself in Delhi, indulge in the rich Mughlai cuisine at iconic restaurants like Bukhara and Karim’s. Don’t miss the street food delights of Chandni Chowk.
In Mumbai, word on the street claims restaurants such as the Bombay Canteen, Shree Thaker Bhojanalay and Masque (for a more fine dining experience) are restaurants to pop on your list.
In Kolkata, explore the sweet and savoury flavours of Bengal with dishes like fish curry, rasgulla, and the iconic kati roll. Or if in Kerala, dive into the delights of the fresh seafood and coconut-based cuisine of this southern state. And definitely don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy a traditional Kerala Sadya.
Perhaps you might find yourself in Goa, if so make sure to leave some space to savour a fusion of Indian and Portuguese flavours in this coastal paradise. Enjoy fresh seafood, Goan curry, and delicious desserts.
But remember: This is just a starting point. Each region in India offers unique culinary experiences. Be adventurous, explore local markets, and interact with locals to discover hidden gems.
What are the essentials to pack for a trip to India?
- Water bottle
- Bug spray
- Adapter
- Different cards & cash
- Passport
- Comfortable shoes
- Hand sanitiser
- Towel
- Backpack
- Loose fitting breathable clothes, dress modestly
- Portable charger
Best time to visit India
Timing your visit to India can make a big difference.
The best time to visit largely depends on where you want to go and what you want to do.
Goa
The best time to visit Goa is from November to February when it is warm and dry, avoiding monsoons.
New Delhi
The best time to visit New Delhi is October to March, the weather is dry and cool, making it ideal for exploring the bustling city.
Kolkata
The best time to visit Kolkata is between October to February, when the weather is ideal and a time of plenty of festivities
Mumbai
The best time to visit Mumbai is between October to February. The days are pleasant, and evenings are breezy.
Kerala
The best time to visit is between December and March when sunshine and temperatures are at their best and rainfall is lowest.
Rajasthan
The best time for travellers to visit Rajasthan is between October to March.
Varanasi
The best time to visit Varanasi is between October to March to avoid the hot summers and enjoy a calm breeze and low temperatures which is ideal for sightseeing.
Additionally, aligning your visit with major festivals like Diwali, Holi, or Durga Puja is a good way to enhance your trip to India
What are the different types of Indian visas available, and which one do I need?
If you’re planning on visiting India for tourism purposes you can apply for the Indian Tourist Visa or the Indian E-Visa.
These are both
- Multiple-entry visas
- Valid for up to 12 months with 90-180 days stays (however, the duration of your stay will depend on your individual circumstances, such as the country you are from).
The main difference between both of the visas is that the eVisa is an electronic authorisation to enter India. The advantage of this is that you can obtain it online, which makes the process of obtaining an Indian visa much easier and much faster!
- Visa First can help you register for an eVisa – taking care of the process from start to finish!
If you would like to find out more about the Indian eVisa, here is our Indian e-Visa application guide.
How Visa First can help
Applying for a visa can be stressful and overwhelming.
At Visa First, our experts take care of all of the boring paperwork and manage your application from start to finish, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
Why choose Visa First?
- We have 20 years of experience in immigration and visa services and we are a trusted name in the industry
- We process more than 10,000 visas each year
- Easy online process
- A dedicated visa expert will answer all your questions
- We will boost your chances for a successful outcome
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