Beautiful, chaotic, wonderful, crazy yet fantastic, all these words and many more can be used to describe the amazing country called India. This country is an eccentric mix of brightly colored saris, lush greenery, precious temples, exciting people, beeping horns and a mélange of smells – spices incense and good food. With a population of over one billion people, India is a place rich in diverse cultures and historical heritage. From exotic hill stations to beautiful ground beaches with many luxury resorts, grand majestic architectural structures, and simple yet amazing temples, this country is an ideal travel destination for the curious explorer. India is also home to several wildlife reserves, religious monuments, and wellness retreats to sit back, relax, and enjoy your time off. This country is vast, so it may be easy to get confused about where to start your exploration. To make it easy and exciting for you, read on to discover the top things to do in India.
Explore the east (Kolkata & Bhubeshwar)
A place of power for several ancient empires, East India is embedded with substantial history, ethnic culture, and religious heritage. This part of India comprises of states like Odisha, West Bengal, Jharkhand, Bihar, and Arunachal Pradesh. The region is filled with amazing places to explore like ancient temples, architectural marvels, beautiful beaches, gorgeous verdant hill stations, hot springs, scenic waterfalls, flora and fauna, and an opportunity to enjoy delicious local delicacies. With some areas boasting of science centers and research institutions, Eastern India is a must-visit on your trip to the country.
1. Eat authentic Bengali food at a local home in Kolkata (from USD 46.0)
You can’t visit India without trying out one of their many traditional cuisines. If you find yourself in Kolkata, you should not miss getting a taste of some delicious Bengali dishes. Enjoy the very best the city has to offer when it comes to traditional meals through its sumptuous three-course Bengali delicacies. The unique thing isn’t just in the fantastic taste of the dishes, but in the fact that you get to savor these dishes prepared specially for you right in the home of a local chef. This way, you get an authentic experience of life in the city.
Kolkata 2-Hour Traditional Bengali Meal in a Private Home
Duration: 2 hours
2. Explore prehistoric artifacts at the Indian Museum in Kolkata
Take a fascinating trip back in time when you explore the excellent Indian Museum. The largest museum in India, this home of ancient artifacts is also the ninth oldest museum in the world. It is located in Kolkata and boasts of the most elegant collection of antique items, Buddha relics, Egyptian mummies and ancient paintings. The Indian museum is also home to several groups of historical artifacts, fossils and skeletons, ornaments and other items from the country’s rich history. With divided sections, a library and bookshop within its premises, this museum is a great place to get a feel of India’s rich history.
Indian Museum
Address: 27, Jawaharlal Nehru Rd, Fire Brigade Head Quarter, New Market Area, Dharmatala, Taltala, Kolkata, West Bengal 700016, India
Website: Indian Museum
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 10am - 5pm (closed on Mon)
Price: 0.28 - 6.96 USD
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3. Take a stroll inside Victoria Memorial (Kolkata)
Sitting majestically at the heart of Kolkata is one of the grandest and most elegant monuments in the city - Victoria Memorial. An iconic structure built in the memory of Queen Victoria, a former Queen of the United Kingdom. It is a magnificent white building made of marble and with an architectural design that is simply amazing. Built between 1906 – 1921, this opulent structure dazzles you first with its European style of architecture, then its impressive interior and lush gardens that are well maintained and elegant. A stroll through the halls of this stunning building offers you a chance to see stunning paintings, Indian relics, and amazing bronze statues.
Victoria Memorial
Address: Victoria Memorial Hall, 1, Queens Way, Maidan, Kolkata, West Bengal 700071, India
Website: Victoria Memorial
Opening hours: 10am - 5pm (daily)
Price: 0.42 - 6.96 USD
4. Visit the Mullick Ghat Flower Market in Kolkata
Flowers hold great importance in the life of an average Indian, so it comes as no surprise that the biggest flower market in Asia is located in the country. The Mullick Ghat Flower Market is located in Kolkata and is a vibrant place of loud sounds and frenzied interactions that you may find strange, yet fascinating. Give your olfactory senses a treat as you walk through this market. Observe the millions of different flowers in their bright, attractive colors, with their sellers, hustling to get customers. Chaotic yet beautiful, this market also offers you stunning views of the city’s skyline, and its best visited in the mornings.
Mullick Ghat Flower Market
Address: p222, 1, Strand Bank Rd, Fairley Place, B.B.D. Bagh, Kolkata, West Bengal 700001, India
Website: Mullick Ghat Flower Market
Opening hours: 3am - 8pm (daily)
5. Marvel at the stars and constellations at Birla Planetarium (Kolkata) (from USD 120.0)
Boasting of being the second largest planetarium in the world, Birla Planetarium is a must-visit destination. This great planetarium has a gigantic dome on top of it and is home to a stunning astronomy gallery and an impressive collection of celestial models from world-famous astronomers. The planetarium is one of the major tourist destinations in Kolkata and was established in 1962 to be an educational, scientific, and research institution. A trip to this planetarium offers you the opportunity to watch an enlightening show of the zodiac patterns, stars, and constellations, ones you’d be glad to see.
Full-Day Tour of Kolkata
Duration: 8.0 hour
6. Watch local artisans bring deities to life at Kumartuli (Kolkata)
SARADUTSOV 2018.
Posted by Kumartuli on Wednesday, September 26, 2018
As a country filled with millions of gods, you may have wondered where all the carved statues of deities come from. Well, your answer lies in the narrow lanes and bustling surroundings of Kumartuli artisans town in Kolkata. A visit to this town will take you to another world of art, imagination, and pottery. You get to watch these deities being born right out of everyday materials like bamboo and clay. This place offers you a unique and fascinating insight into the world of gods and goddesses in India.
Kumartuli
Address: Shyampukur, Kumartuli, Kolkata, India
Website: Kumartuli
7. Visit the ruins of the Sun Temple in Konark (Bhubaneshwar) (from USD 99.0)
Built in the 13th century, the Konark Sun Temple is one of the most famous monuments in the country. Located in the Eastern city of Odisha, this magnificent structure is listed as one of UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites. However, as a result of age and several other factors, this 800-year old temple now lies in ruins with some parts of it fallen or sagged. A visit to this temple offers you the chance to see the first real symbol of India’s ancient architectural excellence. This Sun Temple is a famous tourist destination not just for its grand appearance but also for its exciting wall art, carvings, and rich history.
Konark Sun Temple and Pipli Village Tour from Bhubaneswar
Duration: 6 to 8 hours
8. Check out a replica of the Last Supper at St. John's Church in Kolkata
The very first Anglican cathedral in India, St. John’s Church is a place with a great history. Located in Kolkata, the neo-classical structure of St. John’s Church is home to several historical facts and exciting things to learn. Although it is still being used for mass, this church is frequently visited by tourists for its impressive features. See the memorial of James Kirkpatrick and other colonial greats, a large glass-stained window and the more popular replica of Da Vinci’s iconic painting - The Last Supper. However, this replica has been replaced with India-based characters depicting the original people at the Last Supper painting.
St John's Church in Kolkata
Address: 2/2, Council House Street, Opp Dewars Garage, Lal Dighi, BBD Bagh, Kolkata, West Bengal 700001, India
Website: St John’s Church in Kolkata
Opening hours: 8am - 5pm (daily)
Visit Northern India (Agra, Delhi, Jaipur, Amritsar, Manali)
Northern India is arguably the most visited part of India for tourists and visitors. A place of cultural splendor, famous cities, architectural grandiose and top-notch local cuisines, this part of the country is a beautiful place to experience. Explore the remnants of ancient empires, beautiful lakes, sprawling green valleys, historical monuments, religious sites, picturesque mountains, and bustling cities. Enjoy staying at luxurious apartments and hotels, and interacting with the friendly locals. Home to India’s capital city (New Delhi) as well as the famous “Golden Triangle” - tourist circuit, this historically rich region is a must-visit on your trip to the country.
9. Ride a gypsy jeep and go trekking down the Aravali Mountain (from USD 23.39)
Find the charm of the Aravali Mountains with a wonderful expedition, beginning with a gypsy jeep ride through rough landscapes, offering outstanding vistas of untouched landscapes. Guide through enchanting local villages, catching the spirit of rural Jaipur and the lushness of the Aravali Range.
The experience continues with a trek to the mountain’s base, engaging you in the sublime beauty of nature. Perfect for adventure seekers and nature aficionados, this is one of the best activities to do in India, promising a stimulating getaway and a chance to bond with India’s natural wonders.
Gyptain Safari in Jaipur, India - Klook
10. Embark on a spiritual journey in Varanasi (from USD 14.0)
Plunge into the spiritual atmosphere of Varanasi, India’s holy essence, and solve centuries of spiritual zeal and architectural marvel. Travel through historic Sarnath, where Buddha’s transformative teachings began, amidst age-old relics and spiritual places. Marvel at Varanasi’s aged buildings, each revealing a tale of devotion through unique architectural styles.
As the day concludes, witness the hypnotic Ganga Aarti at Dasaswamedh Ghat, a symbolic ritual merging light, sound, and movement into a transcendent experience. This is one of the best places to visit in India, promising a profound reawakening and intimate glimpse into India’s divine tapestry.
Private Day Tour in Varanasi, India
Duration: 10hrsDuration
11. Visit the symbol of eternal love - The Taj Mahal (from USD 9.0)
How can you come to India and not visit the iconic and beautiful historical point of interest in India, the Taj Mahal? This stunningly spectacular mausoleum is recognized as the ultimate symbol of eternal love. India’s most famous monument, the Taj Mahal is also one of the Seven Wonders of the World. It was built between 1632 and 1648 by an Emperor as an ode of his love for his wife. This fantastic work of art is made out of white marble and a gorgeous garden to give it the perfect paradise look. Words are not enough to do justice to the beauty of this monument; you have to visit it and see for yourself.
From Delhi: Taj Mahal and Agra Fort Private Sunrise Tour
Duration: 12.0 hour
12. Get a glimpse of the Peacock Throne at Red Fort in Delhi (from USD 16.5)
One of India’s most famous lost artifacts is the iconic Peacock Throne from the Mughal Dynasty. This throne was the seat of power from where the Emperor ruled over the people in the Red Fort. The massive Red Fort was home to the emperors of the Mughal dynasty, and the fort itself is a colossal, still standing symbol of the greatness of the Mughal Era. But the Peacock Throne was unique, said to cost more than the Taj Mahal and made with pure gold and precious gemstones. Although the original throne is lost, you can get a glimpse of its replacement on a to Red Fort.
Old Delhi Walk And Red Fort Tour
Duration: 3hrsDuration
13. Explore Jal Mahal - a palace made in the middle of a lake (Jaipur) (from USD 53.0)
How would you like to see a beautiful castle sitting in the middle of a large lake? That’s what Jal Mahal offers you. Commonly referred to as the “Water Palace,” this architectural masterpiece is one of the most stunning palaces in the entire region. Built in 1750 using red sandstone, this 5-story monument is accessed by a boat ride on beautifully hand-crafted wooden boats. Explore not just the glory but also the rich Rajput culture and tradition. This stunning palace is also a haven for bird watchers.
Jaipur Amer Fort, Jal Mahal & Stepwell Private Half-Day Tour
Duration: 5.0 hour
14. Get close to Jaivana - the biggest cannon in the world (Jaipur) (from USD 53.0)
The Jaivana Cannon, located in Jaigarh Fort in Jaipur is the biggest cannon in the world. This massive war machine was cast in 1720 by the fort’s administrator during the Mughal Dynasty. The barrel sits on six wheels in a special part of the fort. Local legend has it that this cannon was only fired once, for trial purpose, and its ball hit a village 35 km (21.7 mi) away and turned it into a lake. Many also say the shockwave from that trial shot killed wrecked havoc in Jaipur! Imagine the raw power of such a weapon.
Jaipur Amer Fort, Jal Mahal & Stepwell Private Half-Day Tour
Duration: 5.0 hour
15. Get a bazaar experience at Chandni Chowk in New Delhi (from USD 67.0)
One of the oldest and busiest markets in the entire country, and possibly the whole continent, Chandni Chowk is a bustling place and the no. 1 tourist spot in India. This market fully subscribes to the chaotic and jam-packed nature of Indian markets, but yet, filled with the latest fashion items at the most affordable prices. Established in the 17th century as a cloth bazaar, this market still retains its bazaar feature; but with a broader range of items, including street food, bargain goods, and spices.
Private Custom Shopping Tour: Delhi's Bustling Markets
Duration: 4 to 6 hours
16. Learn more about the Golden Temple in Amritsar (from USD 81.0)
The spiritual capital of the Sikhs, the Golden Temple in Amritsar is one of the most beautiful temples in the world. A sacred place of pilgrimage for those of the Sikh faith, this magnificent temple has a stunning architectural style with a dome covered with gold foil. It sits majestically in a pool called the pool of nectar and features an exquisitely designed interior. With up to 100,000 people (locals and tourists) visiting this place daily, it may take you a while to get it, but the wait is worth it.
Golden Temple, Jallianwala Bagh, Wagah Border Private Tour
Duration: 9 hours
17. Visit the Lotus Temple in New Delhi
Unique, beautiful and attractive, these words aptly describe Delhi’s distinctive Lotus Temple. This unusually designed temple belongs to the Baha’i faith and gets an estimated 10,000 visitors every day – tourists and Baha’i faithful. However, the temple is open to all regardless of religion. Located on 26 acres (10.52 hectares) of landscaped gardens, this temple takes the peculiar structure of a floating lotus flower and has a pleasant and serene ambiance. Having won several awards for its beautiful and unique architecture, this temple is a great place to see in New Delhi.
Lotus Temple
Address: Lotus Temple Rd, Bahapur, Shambhu Dayal Bagh, Kalkaji, New Delhi, Delhi 110019, India
Website: Lotus Temple
Opening hours: Summers: 9am - 7pm (daily); Winters: 9:30am - 5:30pm (daily)
Price: 2.09 USD
18. Discover Hidimba Temple and Jogni Waterfall in Manali (from USD 100.0)
Also known as the Hadimba Temple, this quaint structure is perched on a hill station in Northern India called Manali. The Hidimba Temple is an ancient cave temple built in the 15th century and dedicated to the Hidimba Devi deity. It’s a well-visited and historic place in Manali. Also in Manali is a fantastic waterfall surrounded by lush greenery, the Jogni waterfall. The fall cascades down a distance of over 150 feet (45.7 meters) with a small pool at the base where visitors can swim.
9-Day Group Motorbike Tour from Manali to Ladakh
Duration: 9 days
See colorful places of Western India (Mumbai, Goa)
Oh Goa... Photo by @alexaptsiauri
Posted by Goa on Thursday, June 13, 2019
Seeped in the golden color of palaces, vibrant touch of Indian history, beautiful deserts with dunes and the hippie culture of Anglo Indian Goa, Western India is a significant part of the country. With the region also boasting of stunning beaches, serene temples, majestic palaces, and Portuguese mansions, it is a vast region to spend some time exploring. See all the diverse culture with a vibrant range of colors and scenic landscapes as you have fun experiencing the amazing western part.
19. Stroll the Latin Quarters at Panaji, Goa (from USD 87.0)
Off the beaten path in Goa lies the rustic Latin Quarters in Panjim – also known as Panaji. This charming lane is filled with colorful colonial buildings, whitewashed church cathedrals, and unique and beautiful art galleries. Although some of the buildings are now old and faded, the narrow lanes of Panjim’s Latin Quarters still have all its vibrancy and character. Take a relaxing stroll down this lane, see the architectural charm, and explore some of its art shops. You’d not want to leave!
Private, All-Inclusive Tour of Goa
Duration: 8 hours
20. Explore the Big Foot Museum in Goa (from USD 148.0)
See true Goan heritage at the Big Foot Museum in the city. This museum is an attempt to recreate the ancient Goan village settlement along with all its temples, markets, and traditional occupations. Explore the fantastic setup, including a Bigfoot impression on a rock to make all your wishes come true (according to legend). See the exhibition that displays the beautiful works of local artisans and their products. You also have the opportunity to explore the exciting paintings, with each, revealing fantastic stories about the village.
Goa Private Cultural Tour with Shantadurga Temple and Lunch
Duration: 7 hours
21. Discover Elephanta Cave temples in Mumbai (from USD 77.0)
One of the most significant attractions in Mumbai with a rich history, the Elephanta Caves is a must-see in the city. This UNESCO World Heritage site boasts of being home to several fascinating Buddist rock carvings and art, and Hindu rock art. These mystical caves are also engraved with religious art and decorated with majestic carvings and figures with some of the statues dating as far back as the 7th century. These caves are frequently visited and even have guided tours that can take you through.
Elephanta Caves Tour, Train Ride, Gateway of India from Mumbai
Duration: 5 hours
22. Check out the colonial-era monument - Gateway of India (from USD 172.0)
A grand memorial with spectacular arches and design, Gateway of India is one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations. An unofficial icon of the city, this colossal monument was built to welcome and honor King George and Queen Mary in the early 1900s. As the first thing, you’d see when you come into the city; you can’t miss checking out this incredible architectural masterpiece when in Mumbai.
Mumbai City Tour with Elephanta Caves
Duration: 9 to 10 hours
23. Visit UNESCO-listed Chhatrapati Shivaji station in Mumbai (from USD 60.0)
There are several UNESCO World Heritage sites in the country, and Chhatrapati Shivaji Station is one of them. This beautiful place is one of the busiest rail stations in the country. Also referred to as the Victoria Terminus (VT), this large and impressive structure offers you a unique and inviting blend of Victorian Gothic architecture with authentic Islamic and Hindu additions. Enjoy looking at the stained glass windows and jungle-themed interior decorations. It is also a central place for train rides in the country.
All inclusive Mumbai Shore Excursion from Mumbai port
Duration: 5 hours
24. Watch a movie at the iconic Maratha Mandir Theatre in Mumbai
DDLJ Forever In Maratha Mandir #DDLJ to continue at #MarathaMandir, Mumbai. Theatre management and Yash Raj mutually decide to continue 11.30 am show daily.
Posted by Ultra Bollywood on Saturday, February 21, 2015
Located in Mumbai central, the Maratha Mandir Theatre is the first cinema hall in the city of Mumbai. This iconic movie theater was built in 1958 and since then has been an essential place for relaxing and catching favorite movies of the country. It has just one screen but can seat up to 1,000 people at a time. You cannot miss seeing the popular Bollywood superhit movie “Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge” which interestingly has been showing every week here since 1995!
Maratha Mandir Theatre
Address: 22, M M Marg, RBI Staff Colony, Mumbai Central, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400008, India
Website: Maratha Mandir Theatre
25. Watch the evening temple ceremony at Shree Siddhivinayak Temple (Mumbai) (from USD 76.0)
Get into the real Indian spirit and experience faith in Mumbai by taking part in the evening Aarti ceremony at a beautiful vintage temple - Shree Siddhivinayak. Learn all about the magnificent temple built in the 18th century, and believed to be the richest temple in Mumbai. It’s a temple dedicated to the famous deity - Ganesha, provider of prosperity, and decorated beautifully with many flowers and bright lights. Be a part of the Aarti ceremony and join devotees to sing hymns and pray to Ganesha for health and happiness.
Mumbai Shree Siddhivinayak, Bandra-Worli Sea Link Tour, Dinner
Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes
26. Learn more about the Jewish community at these synagogues in Mumbai (from USD 68.0)
A tranquil and lovely community, Mumbai has a thriving Jewish community. On your visit to the city, don’t miss a chance to see, interact with, and learn more about the community of Jewish people in the town. Take an enlightening tour of the Jewish villages, visit their landmarks, and learn more about their fascinating history and heritage. You can also spend time exploring the fantastic 19th-century architectural splendor of Kenesethe Eliyahoo Synagogue and the enormous bright blue colored Magen David Synagogue.
The Jewish Heritage of Mumbai
Duration: 3 to 4 hours
Encounter paradise in Southern India (Kochi, Pondicherry, Alleppey, Mahabalipuram)
Unlike the predominantly Northern India’s highland areas, India’s Southern part is a pure lowland paradise. This place boast of cascading landscapes, luscious valleys, rock-cut shrines, fabulous palaces and forts, pristine gardens and tea plantations, lush tropical forests, sophisticated cities and a mélange of mouth-watering dining options, there is something for everyone in this part of the country. Explore the beauty of Munnar, Alappuzha, Kochi and more. Enjoy seeing the most amazing sights and savoring the most delicious seafood delicacies and many more exciting activities when you visit beautiful Southern India.
27. Relax your mind, body and soul at Agastya Ayurveda in Kochi
Lounge lazily and enjoy fresh, clean air coming directly from the sea at the beautiful Agastya Ayurveda Gardens in Kochi. This remarkable seaside place is home to thousands of tropical palm trees, an impressive rock formation, and a pristine sandy beach. With beautiful features like luxurious accommodations, stunning views of the sea, several areas for exploration and a relaxing, body treatment spa, Agastya Ayurveda Gardens offers you all you need and more to make your trip memorable.
Agastya Ayurveda
Address: H.No: 11/365, Meckenzie Garden Road, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001, India
Website: Agastya Ayurveda
Opening hours: 8am - 8pm (daily)
28. Experience staying in a houseboat in Kerala (from USD 89.0)
One of the best things to do in Kerala is to explore the fantastic backwaters of the town, an ideal way to do that is by hiring a houseboat. Traditional houseboats are numerous in this area and offer you a chance to enjoy a fantastic adventure on the backwaters of Kerala. The houseboats usually move slowly, so you get a full view of the beautiful and scenic scenery all around the town. It’s a must-do activity on your visit to the city of Kerala.
01 Bed Room House Boat at Alleppey - Deluxe
Duration: 1 day
29. Marvel at the beautiful architecture of Santa Cruz Basilica in Kochi
If you are looking to see unique majesty and beauty in this region, then you should not miss seeing the Santa Cruz Basilica. One of the eight basilicas in Kerala, this incredible monument was built by the Portuguese and is one of the most beautiful church cathedrals in the entire country. It is a pace of stunning architecture, historical significance, and artistic beauty. With its well-designed interior and several amazing paintings adorning its walls, the Santa Cruz basilica is going to keep you enthralled throughout your trip.
Santa Cruz Basilica
Address: Bastian St, Fort Nagar, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001, India
Website: Santa Cruz Basilica
Opening hours: Sun: 8am - 6:30pm; Mon - Sat: 7am - 6:30pm
30. Visit the ancient Mahabalipuram and Kanchipuram stone temples (from USD 119.0)
Mahabalipuram is famous for its beautiful 7th- and 8th-century art and architecture, especially the stone carvings. Enjoy sight-seeing the beauty of 7th-century magnificent Shore Temple, which is surrounded by lush, well-tended gardens, and stone carvings that are a delight to the eyes. Mahabalipuram is the former capital of the Pallava Kings, just like Kanchipuram. Kanchipuram is known as the golden city of a thousand temples. A sacred city in India and it has some of the most majestic and grand temples you’d ever see.
Chennai Mahabalipuram, Kanchipuram Temples, Caves Private Tour
Duration: 12 hours
31. Find peace at Sri Aurobindo Ashram in Pondicherry (from USD 127.0)
A beautiful sacred refuge in the country, Sri Aurobindo Ashram in Pondicherry is a spiritual place to visit. An ashram is a place where faithful religious go for retreats and this place is one of the most visited in the country. It is serene, stunningly beautiful, and dynamic. It is also a great place to experience the unique culture of the people of this region and also find peace in the spiritual tenets of this faith.
Auroville and Pondicherry Private Full-Day Tour from Chennai
Duration: 11 hours
Paradise awaits you in India
India is a popular tourist destination. Tourists visit the country for different reasons including its incredibly beautiful lush scenery, incredible temples, and vibrant culture. India has much more in store such as the Ganga Aarti at the ghats of Benaras, the royal palaces at the princely state of Rajasthan, the beautiful natural splendor of Meghalaya and other North-eastern states, the rugged beauty of Madhya Pradesh, and the list continues. Hope you visit the country with enough time to witness the extraordinary fusion of culture and beauty of dynamic India.
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