The name ‘India’ is derived from the River Indus. India is one of the oldest civilizations in the world with a kaleidoscopic variety and rich cultural heritage. It covers an area of 32, 87,263 sq. km, extending from the snow-covered Himalayan heights to the tropical rain forests of the south. As the 7th largest country in the world, India stands apart from the rest of Asia, marked off as it is by mountains and the sea, which give the country a distinct geographical entity. As you travel, India offers a range of vast tourism choices, diverse in land and nature, people, tribes, cuisine, faiths, dance forms, music, arts, crafts, adventure, sport, spirituality, history; even these vary as you journey from one state to another.
WHERE TO GO IN INDIA
1. Delhi
Delhi, the capital of India and one of the oldest cities of the world, is unlike any other city on the planet. It’s a place that not only touches your pulse but even fastens it to a frenetic speed.With a history that goes back many centuries & empires, Delhi showcases an ancient culture and a rapidly modernizing country. From the labyrinth of narrow lanes, old havelis and colourful bazaars of Old Delhi to the best features of a modern city such as a metro system, gleaming malls, bustling markets and fabulous eating places; the past and the present mix seamlessly together in Delhi.
Centuries-old monuments are a part of the city’s daily life. An array of historical sites including the World Heritage Sites of Red Fort, Humayun’s Tomb and Qutub Minar rest amongst several historical treasures in Delhi’s possession. Add to this the presence of diverse cultures, sprawling greenery, rich architecture and a famed cuisine, and Delhi becomes one of the undisputed highlights of the country.
2. Agra
Agra is an ancient city on the banks of the River Yamuna. It is on the Golden Triangle tourist circuit with Delhi and Jaipur. It is famous for its Mughal architecture and for being home to one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Taj Mahal – a monument of incredible elegance and architectural perfection. Agra has many other famous archaeological sites , Akbar’s citadel, Fatehpur Sikri takes you through the everyday life of the royals at that time. The Agra Fort is another fascinating site to visit. And don’t forget to buy the specialties, Petha
3. Varanasi
Lying in the south of Uttar Pradesh, on the banks of the holy River Ganga, breathes Varanasi, which is believed to be the the oldest living city in the world. For centuries, the mystic of this place has been attracting pilgrims from across India as well as abroad. A dwelling of ancient domes, muths, ashrams, priests, narrow lanes with shops filled with Benaresi sarees, Varanasi represents the colorful and fascinating India of your dreams. With intimate rituals of life and death being parallel y performed on the Ghats, you’ll find it exhilarating to explore the religious geography of this city. Walk through the busy alleyways or watch the sunrise from a boat for an unforgettable experience. Trace the perimeter of the city, paying homage to shrines all the way. Who knows, a journey to this City of Light may turn out to be your favorite stop of all
4. Jaipur
Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan is popularly known as the Pink City. With broad avenues and spacious gardens, the city is steeped in history and culture. Here the past comes alive in magnificent forts and palaces, blushed pink, where once lived the maharajahs. The bustling bazaars of Jaipur, famous for Rajasthan jewelry, fabric and shoes, possess a timeless quality and are a treasure-trove for the shoppers.
5. Udaipur
Popularly known as the City of Lakes, serene Udaipur is the crowning jewel of royal Rajasthan. With shimmering lakes visible from almost every rooftop, fairy-tale palaces, sprawling havelis, revered temples and narrow lanes weaving through colorful markets as ancient as the city’s history, Udaipur’s charm is unmatched. Udaipur is also referred to as the Venice of the East, a title it has earned for being dotted with numerous lakes (seven to be precise)!. Udaipur is one of the most picturesque destinations in the country.
6. Goa
Goa, situated on the west coast of India, is one of the most delightful states of India. Formerly a Portuguese colony, it is endowed with a variety of attractions including palm fringed beaches, miles of golden sands, lush green country-side, an incredible mosaic of cultural heritage, magnificent churches, temples, forts and monuments and a unique cultural synthesis of the east and west. With its tropical climate, Goa is a tourist destination for all seasons. Goa is a treasure trove of culture, music, dances and art forms that can be enjoyed during local festivals and celebrations. It is often said that ‘Goa never stops partying’. The city is known for its vibrancy that attains its pinnacle in the annual Goa Carnival festival.
7. Leh-Ladakh
Set amidst the epic Himalayas, Ladakh is a rustic and heavenly beautiful travel destination. The rugged valleys and mountains, winding roads coupled with the vibrant cultural life maintain the exuberance and charm of this region. The iconic Magnetic Hill, the turquoise colored Pangong Lake, the confluence of two mystical rivers, ancient and awe inspiring monasteries and the highest passes are a few of the marvelous attractions of Leh and Ladakh in general. The wide array of trekking routes will satiate your soul and enrich the senses. The moon like desert mountains continue to be an exceptional destination for adventure seekers and admirers of Buddhism and phenomenal mountain vistas.
8. Rishikesh
Rishikesh, the ‘place of the sages’ is a celebrated spiritual town located on the banks of the Ganga. It is the starting point for the Hindu Char Dham pilgrimage to seek spiritual salvation. Rishikesh is an ideal destination not only for pilgrims but also for those who want to delve deeper into spirituality, yoga and other aspects of ancient practices. Sacred rivers and mountains make a perfect stage for yoga and reflective hikes. Rishikesh is also called the ‘Yoga capital of the world’. For the adventurous, Rishikesh is the place for starting their trekking expeditions and excursions towards the Himalayan peaks.
9. Kochi
Kochi, also known as Cochin, is one of the most picturesque destinations on the southwest coast line of Kerala. An all-weather harbor and a grand seascape mark it as the “Queen of the Arabian Sea”. Cochin Port is a cruise port and has witnessed an encouraging growth with the arrival of luxury cruise liners to its shores. The peaceful city is also one of the leading commercial centers of southern India. It is the top supplier of aromatic spices to global markets, so if you’re looking for spices for your curries this is the place to buy them. Moreover, voyagers also coveted fine sandalwood, perfumes and gold that came from this market-town. Kochi kingdom dates back to the 12th century. It is believed that Chinese and Arab traders were the first visitors to Kochi who paved the way for Portuguese and Dutch visitors, followed by the British Raj in this region. This place has been a safe haven for travel enthusiasts for several decades.
10. Kumarakom
Kumarakom is an enchanting backwater destination with shimmering water, bright green mangrove forests, coconut palms lining the embankments, blue skies, flocks of migratory birds skimming the water. It is a cluster of little islands on the eastern banks of Vembanad Lake in God’s Own Country, which is a veritable dreamland. The bird sanctuary located in this charming destination spread across 14 acres is a favorite haunt of migratory birds and an ornithologist’s paradise. Egrets, darters, herons, teals, waterfowls, cuckoo, wild duck and migratory birds like the Siberian Stork visit here in flocks are the major attractions for the visitors
11. Mumbai
Mumbai is in all ways a mega-city driven by power, wealth, glamour and fame. It is also a city with strong historical links, wonderful British architecture, museums, beaches, places of worship, and above all, a true galaxy of stars where Bollywood reigns supreme. The seven islands that came to constitute Mumbai were earlier home to communities of fishing colonies.
12. Khajuraho.
Known for the immaculate and erotic sculptures of its temples, Khajuraho has successfully taught the lessons of spirituality over greed. This wondrous heritage town is encircled with the Vindhya Mountain Ranges to make it even more delightful. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Khajuraho showcases beautiful inscriptions also. The Khajuraho temples were built in the short span of a hundred years, from 950-1050 AD in a truly inspired burst of creativity. Of the 85 original temples, 22 have survived till today to constitute one of the world’s great artistic wonders. The temples of Khajuraho are India’s unique gift to the world, representing, as they do, a paean to life, to love, to joy, perfect in execution and sublime in expression. Life, in every form and mood, has been captured in stone, testifying not only to the craftsman’s artistry but also to the extraordinary breadth of vision of the Chandela Rajputs under whose rule the temples were conceived and constructed.
Facts –
Best Time to travel : September, October, November, December, January, February, March, April
Capital : New Delhi
Currency : India Rupees (INR) : Currency Converter
In India the local currency is the Indian Rupee.
● Banknote denominations: 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 Rupee
● Coin denominations: 10, 20, 25, 50 Paise; 1, 2, 5 Rupee
As a general guideline, bring a variety of payment means, particularly in the event that you have difficulties
with your preferred method of payment.
ATMs are widespread across India in both cities and smaller towns. Visa, Master card, Cirrus and Maestro are the most commonly accepted cards, but of those Visa and Master card are more likely to have success. The daily withdrawal limit differs from bank to bank.
Language : Hindi & English
Time Zone : India observes India Standard Time all year. There are no Daylight Saving Time clock changes.
Weather : The weather in India varies from region to region, but it’s generally safe to say that December–February sees dry, cooler weather before the heat intensifies from March–May. June, July and August are the monsoon months, though the amount of rain differs across the country, while October, September and November see rainfall ease once more.
More information
Electricity : Voltage for outlets is 230. North American voltage is generally 110V. Some, but not all, hotels feature
multi-regional outlets that accept different types of plugs. Due to this, for dual voltage electronics, we still
recommend you bring an adapter. If you have single voltage electronics (110V) a converter is also required.
Bathroom outlets are usually for razors only.
VISAS, PASSPORTS, AND OTHER ENTRY REQUIREMENTS : You are responsible for obtaining and paying for all entry documents (visas, etc.) and for meeting all health requirements (inoculations, etc.) as required by the laws, regulations, or orders of the countries you will visit. We cannot accept liability if you are refused entry onto any transport or into any country for failure to carry correct documentation.
All foreigners entering India will need a visa. Whether you can apply for an e-visa is dependent on your nationality, the duration of your India tour and how you plan on entering the country.
BUDGETING AND SHOPPING – The following budget guidelines are just approximate values or starting values for meals and are per person.
Actual prices will vary widely by restaurant and city within a country but below are some averages as
provided by our experienced personnel.
● The approximate cost of a soft drink/mineral water/coffee is 50-60 Rupees.
● An average lunch consisting of a salad or sandwich and a soda or water starts at approximately
200-250 Rupees.
● Dinner at a mid-range restaurant with dessert and a non-alcoholic beverage starts at
approximately 1,000-1,500 Rupees.
Shopping
Prices are as marked in department stores, though in markets it is customary to barter. Start negotiating
with an offer at one-third or half the vendor’s initial price.
Please be warned that if you buy items on tour to be shipped to your home, customs import charges are
hardly ever included in the price. Sales tax or GST (Goods & Services Tax) is normally already included on
price tags; GST refunds, if applicable, are processed at the departing airport from the relevant country
FOOD SPECIALTIES – Roti, naan, seekh kebab (minced meat on iron skewers), chicken tikka (small chunks of marinated and grilled chicken), butter chicken, tandoori chicken, aloo muttar (curry made with potatoes and peas), rajma (curry made with red kidney beans), chana masala (curry made with chickpeas), samosa, daal makhani (daal made with butter).