23 things to do in India

YOUR OWN INDIA TRAVEL GUIDE: TOP 23 THINGS TO DO IN INDIA

Deciphering the India travel guide is not a child’s play. There are so many destinations and so much to do that it becomes almost impossible to craft a perfect itinerary. Is that an issue with your India travel plan too? Well then, take your confusions to the downhill and just travel like a free bird. It isn’t that difficult to travel India anyways!

If you are planning a flight on its travel sky soon, then we are sure by now you’ve got your share of India travel tips. Plus, for a fact, we know that your first question will be, “is it safe to travel to India?” Although, it’s quite safe to travel here, like every other country you need to be a little alert. Even we prioritize your India travel safety but that doesn’t mean you have to hold back yourself from visiting the most beautiful places in India. Don’t worry there! We have got you covered. We have compiled for you the list of tourist attractions in India that have to be a part of your “traveling to India” checklist. So, let’s proceed, shall we?

Leh is a kingdom of dreams that surpasses the notion spree of every travel enthusiast. The songs of this silent valley advertise the vision of an adventure filled saga and why not? Its dusky routes, offbeat tourist spots and of course mountain beauty fills up every criterion falling into that genre. Planning a trip to India? Then, trust us; your adventure heart cannot rest until you take this trip.

Ladakh’s remote mountain beauty and culture is something that you will never be able to get out of your system. Even India tours and travels advertise this enchantress as the most surreal landscape of India. All decked up in Himalayan beauty, Leh Ladakh brings you the best of North India. This heartwarming paradise (which extends from the Siachen Glacier in the Karakoram Range to the great Himalayas) is one of its kind. This amazing travel theme allows you to traverse the cold desert and meet Indiana-Aryan and Tibetan descent sets a benchmark for bliss.

Ladakh has an assortment of Indian travel destinations in its vicinity. From the sparkling tranquil waters at Pangong Lake to the Royal feels at the Leh Palace, the grace of this sanctuary is unrivaled. There so much to revel in this that even listed them becomes a task. So, visit them instead and plan you perfect Ladakh trip.

From the sparkling tranquil waters at Pangong Lake to the Royal feels at the Leh Palace, the grace of this sanctuary is unrivaled. There so much to revel in this that even listed them becomes a task. So, visit them instead, and plan your perfect Ladakh trip. Ladakh has an assortment of travel destinations in its vicinity and traveling in India is incomplete without a trip here. So, revel in its treasures!

Best time to visit: April to mid-May

Don’t miss visiting the Nubra Valley, Pangong Lake, Stok Place, Tso Moriri, Turtuk, Alchi, Hemis National Park, and Khardung La Pass.

If there is any place where you can see the shades of hippie culture celebrated in high spirits, hands down; it has to be in McLeodGanj.

Despite being a trekker’s paradise this little Tibetan town welcomes every hippie heart with open hands on the laps of the Himalayas.

McLeod Ganj rambles with stardust when it comes to sharing its nature’s assortments in comparison with other India destinations. Its beautiful panoramic pleasures, lakes that sparkle like a diamond and waterfalls that gushes right from the heaven itself. It’s everything anybody would love to mention in their travel journal. Due to this, the treks here are quite famous too and why not? There are so many offerings of nature that matching to it can be a task.

Are you looking out for something of this kind on your India travel? Then, you can have it and too in the best way possible in McLeodGanj.

Best time to visit:  March – June

Pamper your wanderlust with a visit to Bhagsu Falls, Namgyal Monastery, Tsuglagkhang Complex, Tibet Museum, and Kangra Valley.

Famous trek to take: Triund Trek, Kaveri River trek, Guna Devi temple trek and Bhagsu trek.

The fascination of the golden age of India wrapped up with the perks of living in a palace is a dream that everyone longs to turn into a reality, isn’t it? Is that the case with you? Then, we are happy to tell you that your wish can turn into a beautiful reality in India. Traveling in India comes with the delights of making you feel like a complete royalty. Some may feel it is a little overrated but trust us; the experience is like no other.

Every time is the best time to travel to India when you are planning on visiting Rajasthan. We all know that you cannot really get everything from a culture until you are living and breathing in it. That is what these palace stays are offering to many tourists around the globe. Ornamented with Rajasthani interiors and decorative motifs, these hotels here makes the interaction with the past actually happen for you. Moreover, it is still the hospitality and the royal palate that takes away all the limelight. They’ve been named heritage hotels for a reason.

Best time to visit: November – February

Famous heritage hotel:   the Samode Palace,  Taj Lake Palace,  Taj Rambagh Palace, Taj Umaid Bhavan, Neemrana Fort Palace, and Nahargarh Haveli.

Where to travel in India? Hmm…Jaunting from the symphonies of spiritual enunciations to the adventure sports that complement the power River Ganges, Rishikesh is the mobile heaven that makes a place in every heart. The sounds of gushing water and enormous temples have found its perfect home amidst the green carpets here. You can dive in with all your heart into its spiritual pool and trust us; it won’t disappoint you.

Rishikesh has two prominent hues in its ambiance. It’s up to you to choose that by which virtue you wish to explore this amazing destination. One of these hues is completely for the hippie heart that enjoys laid-back cafés, hippie culture and the treasures of nature. Do you feel more connected to this tint of Rishikesh? Well, then you will find a number of cafés, numerous adventure sports, and easiest glamping sites catering to all your needs.

Another way of traversing this haven is by the virtue of spirituality. Are you planning to go with this one? Then Rishikesh will overload you with temples, ashrams, Yoga, and Ayurveda retreats for your spirits to break free. Else, you can always mix-match the themes and travel like a pro. Captivated much? Read more on Temple tours to India.

Best time to visit: September to Mid- November.

Places to visit in Rishikesh: Ram Jhula, Parmarth Niketan, Triveni Ghat, GANGA Beach, Ner Waterfall, and Trimbakeshwar Temple.

Do you want to see rural lifestyle live in action? Then, travel India and land onto the Kila Raipur Village in Ludhiana. What is so special about it you ask? Well, the answer is that it is home to the quirkiest of sports which will help you experience the zest of Indian country lifestyle. That is certainly a lightning deal on your India travel packages. Don’t you think?

Kila Raipur takes place annually in the month of February. It offers the privilege to tourist reaching out for the roots of the nation to become a part of a festive fresco that is like no other and meanwhile spotting best places to travel to India. Here, you will see men and women competing in sports which belong to either rural, modern or performing genres. If you count on us then, rural sports are the most fun to watch. Other than that, you will encounter various breeds of domestic animals taking part in the very offbeat competitions happening here.

Are these enticing competitions not a part of your big travel dream? Then it’s time to give it a mention too.

Sports to look out for: Kabaddi, Wrestling, Weightlifting, and Chariot races.

Places to visit nearby: Ludhiana, Chandigarh, and Amritsar.

Are you up for some fun and frolic in the middle of nowhere? Then being at the Rann Utsav is probably the best thing you can do in India. These 6 days of absolute bliss loaded with multiple interactions with Indian tribes call out for the attention of every true traveler on India tour and travel packages. Come, live in a tent in the very middle of a salt desert and surround yourself with a merry blend of culture and traditions. So, what are you waiting for?

Kutch is the most ecologically and culturally sound state of Gujarat that has the abundance of everything to offer to its admirers. Its gleamingly limitless desert, rich cultural palate, and a cornucopia of merriment make this moon-land a one true travel destination. By no surprise, visiting Kutch at the time of Rann Utsav is just a cherry on the cake.

There are a lot of things to bash in the Rann Utsav. Some of the most popular ones on the list are Golf Cart rides, ATV Ride, Camel Cart Excursion, Paramotoring, Meditation, Yoga retreats and super yummy treats.

The jarring attractions of Kutch Rann Utsav: culture, tea, food, drink, handicrafts, language, Suf, Kareek, and Pako.

Places to visit in Kutch: Bhuj, Mandvi, Kalo Dungar, Wild Ass Sanctuary, Kutch Bustard Sanctuary, and Siyot caves

Redefine the definition of love at one of the Seven Wonders of the World in Agra, Uttar Pradesh. This ivory white mausoleum built in memory of Mumtaz Mahal by her husband Shah Jahan widely on India travel guide professes the power of love. Are you a fan of age-old structures and rich history? Then, visiting Taj Mahal must be on the top of your travel agenda in India.

Taj Mahal is the crowned jewel of Agra that took almost 10 years to build. In fact, 20,000 craftsmen were involved to put this ivory marble together, making it the most beautiful structure of all time. Traversing through Taj Mahal brings back the glorious time of Mughal era into perception. According to many, the intricate carving and the heartfelt aura of the structure in itself are enough to flabbergast its visitor. Still, the edifice decides to bestow them with so much more.

Best time to visit: October – March

Other top places to visit in Agra: Agra Fort, Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah, Akbar’s tomb, Mehtab Bagh, Moti Masjid and Fatehpur Sikri.

Doting on the best places to visit in India? Then, your list is incomplete without the Kerala backwaters. Because What is better than relaxing over the calm backwaters of Kerala while enjoying the goodness of Ayurveda? Well, it just turns better. The flavor of authentic delicacies, lazy lays while enjoying sunsets and of course the process of natural healing completes this houseboat fun package. This leaves us thinking, who wouldn’t want to sign up for that?

The houseboats you will be signing up for here will be huge, slow-moving and a remade version of the original Kettuvallams of Kerala. These houseboats here will be no less than a five-star hotel. Likewise, it will be boasting the same comforts of cozy bedrooms, modern toilets, furnished living rooms and a kitchen as well. Despite all the comforts and amenities, the magical part about this ride will still be the breathtaking view of the swaying palms and backwaters. These rural areas where you will be swiftly floating around in absolute seclusion will be the one that will sketch your beautiful travel in Kerala.

Best time to visit: June till August

Other top places to visit in Kerala are Kochi, Thekkady, Munnar, Wayanad, and Kovalam.

Are you on a trip to India and missing on spotting some Royal Bengal Tigers? Then, are you really on a trip to India? Turn your life into a wildlife show for a day and see these striped Indian wild cats in their absolute best. Trust us guys; the sightings here is unrivaled and the probability of seeing a Bengal tiger is just too high. So, don’t miss this one of the most famous places in India for the world.

Bandhavgarh is a concoction of travel themes where on one hand the wildlife makes you sit on the edge of your seats. On the other, the fort in its vicinity promises an amazing time travel. Although the grounds are larger than a dream, fauna is supposedly not that friendly here. Still, the limited areas where the Sal trees and Bamboos shed their beauty become the most Surreal site for a nature fanatic like you. If it’s the fauna you’ve been looking out for. Then, Deer, Samba, Langur, Red-Faced Monkeys, Jungle Cats, Bengal Fox, Nilgai, and more wild beings will not leave you disappointed.

Best time to visit: March-June

What to see when in Bandhavgarh: the Shesh Shaiya, Jwalamukhi Temple, Fossil National Park, Climbers Point, Cheshpur Waterfall, Bandhavgarh Fort, Baghel Museum.

Varanasi is the theological capital that communicates with travelers through soul feeding. It is one of the placid places in India that’s well known for beautiful drama, Ramlila. Ramlila, the enactment of the Indian epic Ramayana takes you to a spiritual heaven, where all you want to do is stay. Unlike the India sightseeing and Ganga Aarti where you feel the tides of tranquility, this beautiful act put together by the locals will gush a plethora of emotions into your heart. Do you think you can handle that?

Ramayan professes the triumph of Good over evil. The storyline origins from a city named Ayodhya whose Prince is sent on an exile by his own father to fulfill a promise made in yesteryear. This epic takes a drastic turn when the female protagonist of the epic is abducted by an evil King. The story talks about the struggle of the Prince in finding her wife alongside his half-brother. The twist and turns of the journey plus the ethical family dynamics in the play are just lovely to watch. And we know for a fact that you will lose yourself completely into the story. So, are you intrigued much?

Best time to be here: September – October (Depending on the Hindu calendar)

Best Time to visit Varanasi: November till March

Places to visit in Varanasi: Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Dashashwamedh Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, Dhamek Stupa, and Ramnagar Fort.

Jarring places to travel in India brings you to the spot of the spiritual enlightenment which has been celebrated throughout history. Are you seeking the real meaning of life too? Then, traveling to Mahabodhi temple will add up to your spiritual resume and its one of the travel tips for India that no one will give away for free. Here, you will be learning all that you can about the verses of Buddha while sitting under the same tree that Buddha once sat in search for answers. We say that it is intriguing, what about you?

The first ever construction on the spot of spiritual enlightenment was done by Emperor Ashoka. He was the one to establish a diamond throne on the spot where Buddha attained Nirvana. Although everything except the throne didn’t survive the sands of time, the realms can still be found in the Indian Museum, Kolkata. This UNESCO World Heritage Site takes pride as one of the oldest brick structures of the East and has proven its juju by resurrecting from nothing time and again. Read more on top Museums in India.

Best Time to visit Bodhgaya: November – February

Follow the Buddhist circuit by visiting Shravasti, Patna, Kushinagar, Lumbini and Varanasi.

Step foot on a shrine where passion and romance are no sin. These celebrated aspects of human existence have been very beautifully been brought out to the world in the form of intricate carvings at Khajuraho Temple Complex in Madhya Pradesh. These erotic arts which make up a good percentage of the temple complex are a representation of the importance of ‘kama’ in human life. An exotic addition to the things to know about India is a treat.

Khajuraho Group of monuments is a group of Hindu, Buddhist and Jain temples which are widely famous for their Nagara-style architecture. The Symbolism in the erotic art found outside and inside the temple is exemplary making it one of the most beautiful unexplored places in India. You can spend hours glaring at them and still not getting over its finesse. Do you know what really makes these temples walk the extra mile in the temple tour? Well, it is its representation of lovemaking, orgies, and bestiality under the benign smiles of the divine power that makes it stand out. So, get ready to flabbergast yourself with the mystic mysteries in the ideologies of the bygones that resulted in the construction of this masterpiece.

Best time to visit: October – March

Also visit: Kendriya Mahadeva temple, Devi Jagadambi temple, Nandi Temple, Chaturbhuj Temple and Varaha Temple.

India sightseeing has its fair share of haunting to offer to the world. Among them, it is the Bhangarh haunting that will make you blink sweat with eyes. The striking silence of the place and the stories that revolve around this spooky arena will turn your stomach to ice. Don’t believe us? See it yourself then and don’t tell us later that we didn’t warn you.

Bhangarh in Alwar is one such fort in India, where entry to any civilian or tourist is banned after 7:30 pm. People who reside near its boundaries have reported that they hear repeated screams and cries as soon as the sun goes down. This one of the most mysterious tourist places in India has many legends attached with the name. In fact, one of these legends was supposedly the reason for the destruction of the village and the fort itself.

Bhangarh as a tourist destination is quite a game changer. This magnanimous fort has many palaces, temples, and Havelis in its vicinity which clearly talks about the richness of this estate. You can spend hours admiring its beauty but be aware where the voices of history are taking you. Why? Now you know it all. Do you need traveling to India tips for Bhangarh and many such spooky destinations? Follow our blog on the same for insights and thank us later. Read more about Haunted places in India.

Best time to visit Bhangarh: October -February

Places to visit: Gopinath temple, Bala Kila Fort, Sariska Wildlife Sanctuary, Siliserh Lake Palace, Kesroli, Sariska Palace and City Palace.

Are you anytime confused about where to travel in India? Then, making your way to the northeast of the nation will be the best option. So, put on travel boots because you are going to traverse through elephant marshes, swamps and what not in order to capture the Great One-horned Rhino in their natural habitat. According to us, it’s worth the hassle, what do you think?

Kaziranga National Park flaunts four varieties of fauna, including treasures like Kumbhi, Indian gooseberry, cotton tree, and elephant apple. These varied species of plants will leave you in awe. If still, there is room for fervor, then the wildlife will take care of that very well.

Kaziranga Park is home to the world’s largest population of Indian Rhinoceros. As fascinating as it sounds, this is not the only reason to visit this lush green paradise. In fact, it the best sights is that of Hoolock Gibbon, Tigers, Leopards, Indian Elephants, Sloth Bears, Wild water buffalos, swamp deer, etc. This makes thus journey dreamy and magical. Will you sign up for that?

Best time to visit: November – April

Places to visit nearby are Guwahati, Shillong, Manas National Park, Addabarie tea estate and Nameri National Park.

Let your inner gastronome bloom in happiness with the flavorsome air in Lucknow. The food fiesta on the streets added up with the delights of the amalgamation of many rich cuisines. This makes a visit to Lucknow a complete must. So, don’t miss out on anything here, be it the spicy Biryani or mouth-watering jalebis.

Lucknow soothes the food dash of every gourmand; hands down this place is a wonderland for all the food fishers who visit India for a gastronomic treat. The gracious gulp of the Mughal ecstasies in Aminabad and Hazratganj reaches out to every foodie even from a distance. The gourmet tales of the Chowk, on the other hand, set a different benchmark of food tales in India. If visiting such crowded areas are a tussle or you then local food joint Dastarkhwan can always be your fallback. Not much of a savory person? Then, Nakhas market ‘Gulabi Chai’ and Aminabad’s ‘Khulfi Falooda’ will surely pamper your inner sweet tooth.

Best time to visit Lucknow: October to April

Top places to see in Lucknow: Bara Imambara, Chota Imambara, Rumi Darwaza and Chattar Manzil.

Take a leap of faith in India’s ancient history which will take you to a total of 63 caves in Maharashtra. Enjoy the absolute craftsmanship dedicated to Buddhism in the 34 caves of Ellora. Also, revel in the magical mélange of religions in the 29 caves of Ajanta. Is your inner culture vulture still not satisfied? Then, have a look into cave number sixteen. The incredible Kailash Temple here is seen deciphering the overpowering religious influence on the carvings.

The incredible Kailasa Temple (also known as the Kailash Temple) dedicated to Lord Shiva is one of the gorgeous. things to see in India This cave features the sacred abode of Shiva ‘Mount Kailash’ and becomes the talk of this cave town. Its immense size and life-size elephant sculptures make it hard to believe that’s it just took a chisel and a hammer to carve a marvel like this.

Best time to be here is from November till March.

Top places to visit are Grishneshwar Temple-Ellora, the Buddhist Cave-Ellora, Bibi Ka Maqbara – Aurangabad, the Jain caves-Ellora, and Daulatabad Fort.

This may sound like a stereotypical but it is an absolute reality in Gujarat where these snake charmers still reside. Come, meet them and spend a day dealing with their daily chores while charming a snake or two. Sounds like a plan!

The Vadi tribe is a group of professional snake charmers whose heirloom is the art of charming snakes. This art that dates back to the 10th- Century gives its official onboard training to children reaching the age of two. During the process, they are taught the ancient ways of snake charming until these children take up their role in the community. Trust us; they do not harm any snake in the process and take away a snake from its natural habitat for a maximum of seven months. Isn’t that a breeze of fresh air on the stereotypes?

Best time to visit Gujarat: October – March

Top Places to visit in Gujarat: Bhuj, Ahmedabad, Daman and Diu, Sasan Gir, and Kutch.

Hampi might seem more like a set of any stone-aged movie but trust us; it was once an empire that was very well celebrated in India. But, that’s not all! Hampi is a yoga capital too; where practicing yoga is a blissful affair. Who would miss on that?

A backpacker’s paradise and a pilgrim’s delight, Hampi aces the travel game when it comes to winning hearts. The royal pavilions here shine amidst 26 sq. kilometers (10 sq. miles) of boulder-strewn hills. Hampi is an open museum who wishes to tell stories, but only to those who are eager to listen. Do you want to be that special someone? Then, wait no more because 500 monuments are waiting for you in Hampi, Karnataka.

Best time to visit: October – March

Places to see nearby: Virupaksha Temple, Vittala Temple, Hampi Bazaar, Elephant stables, Queen’s bath, and Lotus Palace.

Are you a culture savvy? Well, then this temple will be your favorite place while traveling to India. Its massive corridors, 170 feet high towers and stories that portray the power of devotion are just exemplary. If you think you can handle all this and much more, and then add this place to your travel bucket list.

The foundation of this stunning edifice was laid back in the 1st century. Honing into its tales of its cosmic matrimony, this temple is dedicated to Meenakshi Devi (the ultimate source of energy) and Lord Shiva (the destroyer). It is because of them, the temple managed to gain back its fallen glory after the Muslim invasion. A thousand pillars, colorful towers, and humongous corridors give this place the grace it deserves. So, pay homage to this eternal power and witness the magic of life getting back in action.

Best time to visit: October – February

Top places to explore in Madurai: Mannar Thirumalai, Samanar Malai, Kutladampatti Falls, Samanar Hills, Koodal Alagar, Thirupparamkunram Murugan Temple and Azhagar Kovil.

India destination list is never complete without a camel safari in the Thar Desert, don’t you agree?

So, sail on the ship of the desert, sleep under the stars and enjoy lip-smacking Rajasthani delicacies. If this doesn’t add bedazzling sparkles to your living trust us; nothing will.

The grandeur of Jaisalmer is boldly out in the world and witnessing its massive Forts with endless alleyways is a dream that only a few get to live. Jaisalmer is the ultimate destination for all the Safari lovers, while its temple trailing and gorging calls out for the best of Rajasthan Tours. This mirage of history dances to the rhythm of its folk music and does reflect its glory onto the fairs and festivals it holds. Do you have any reason to not give it a visit?

Best time to visit: November – March

Top places to visit in Jaisalmer: Jaisalmer Fort, Sam Sand Dunes, Badal Palace, Tazia Tower, Jain temple and Patwon-ki-Haveli.

Swaying palms, soothing breezes, lush green carpets and you on an elephant back, sounds like a scene of an Indian epic-drama don’t you think? Well, it does and you can be a part of it too. So, pack your back and head to Munnar for everything magical that is yet to come your way.

Munnar also famous as ‘The Kashmir of South India’ is the epicentre for every magical itinerary crafted in Kerala. That’s because the evergreen tea gardens here have magnificence that anyone can be a fan of in the very first sight. Despite its aesthetic pleasures, Munnar offers the best of adventures and wildlife sightings in the South. So, let your adventure heart hear the echoes of your adrenaline pumped scream. That’s because calming yourself down to the ambiance is never a task here.

Best time to visit: June – September

Top places to visit: Kundala Lake, Rose Garden, Pothamedu Viewpoint, Anamudi Peak and Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary.

The southernmost tip of India is the locus of positivity of the nation. The sounds of crashing waves, sights of temples and memorials adorn this imperial land to such an extent that spotting them from a distance becomes no task. This beautiful paradise is the haven of devotion and only a few matches up to its aura. Are you one of them?

This Southernmost tip of the Indian Peninsula stands strong in the travel map of India. That’s because its shimmering sands, enchanting temples, pristine palaces and of course very famous Nungu Sharbat leaves no stone unturned in proving their finesse.

Best time to visit: October – March

Top places to visit: Thiruvalluvar Statue, Vivekananda Rock Memorial, Kumari Amman Temple, Kanyakumari Beach, and Padmanabhapuram Palace.

Does your heart jump in excitement whenever shopping comes into any travel pictures? Then, my friend, Delhi is the best place for you to be. From ethnic Indian shopping in Chandni Chowk to silver jewelry in Janpath, every single corner of Delhi has the best of shopping experiences rolled up on its sleeves. So, whatever shopping aspirations you have in mind, see them coming to life on your trip to Delhi.

Best time to visit: October – April

Top Places to shop from: Janpath, Chandni Chowk, Palika, Sarojini Nagar, Lajpat Nagar, Paharganj, and Khan Market.