If you would like to experience a rich cultural heritage and unique traditions then you may want to consider a vacation to India. But, remember, India is quite a large country with regions and provinces that are unique from each other and full of multi-cultural surprises. If you've never been there, it's a good idea to do a little research before your visit.
It is important to factor in the length of time you will be vacationing in India. If you will be staying in India for a long time, then you can visit different regions, since each region in India seems to offer great sights. However, if you're visiting for a shorter time period, then it might be best to pick some of the most popular sights first.
Popular Tourist Spots in India
For beginning travelers to India, the first spot you would want to consider is Delhi, where tourists are treated to the buzzing capital’s literally thousands of shops that sells almost everything one can imagine. The capital is a treat for both the eyes and palates with a whole array of food, especially spicy food, to choose from.
Agra would be the next destination being the location of the world famous Taj Mahal. One might find the area crowded since there are thousands of tourists who visit the temple on a daily basis. The Taj Mahal has become one of India’s notable landmarks and it is often the case that people do not consider their visit to the country complete without getting their pictures taken with the temple in the background.
Breezy Beaches and Waterways
Goa is one of the most popular beaches in India. It started to become a tourist spot in the 1970s and continues to gain in popularity. There are already commercialized Goa beaches that you could chose from, depending on the vacation you desire. Other great beaches can be found in Karnataka and in Kerala, and, although they are less developed, their beauty can equal that of Goa beaches. Andaman beaches also have great white, sandy shores and sparkling blue waters.
Aside from beaches, there are also backwaters which are great places to have a romantic boat rides. Aside from that, there are also forts which can be visited in the Sindhudurg region. Activities include windsurfing, dinghy sailing, scuba diving and water skiing.
Ecotourism and Trekking in the Desert
Different eco activities would include mountaineering, rock climbing, trekking, mountain biking, nature walking, wildlife viewing and river rafting. If you visit Kerala, aside from the beautiful backwaters and beaches, you would also see great hill locations. If you go to the Northern part of India then you will be able to see the placid lakes, forests and stunning snow-capped mountains.
Among the more popular trekkers’ destination are the Jaisalmer in Rajasthan and Pushkar deserts. India has one of the most majestic deserts in the world. The harsh environment definitely has its appeal and with desert festivals during the early and last few months of the year, visitors are surely one for a treat. Rajasthan also boasts monuments, forts, scenic lakes and even exotic wildlife sanctuaries.
In the desert, you can also experience camel safaris and camel fairs, which have become popular not only with the foreigners but with the Indian middle and upper classes. Camel treks in the Thar desert are a great way to experience the beautiful ecosystem of the desert. The forts and cities in the middle of the desert are also great places for romantic vacations and shopping for traditional items.
In fact the place is so popular that it has traditionally been considered as the more preferred tourist destination in all of India. Other destinations include Jaipur city, Samode which is famous for the Haveli and Place hotel, and the religious sites of Ajmer and Pushkar. Pushkar is one of the most sacred cities of the India, famous for holy lakes as well as ancient temples. Take note, however, that meat, fish, eggs, and alcohol are forbidden within the city limits.
Another quite popular destination is Kashmir. The place has come to be known as the “Paradise on Earth” due to the picturesque and jaw-dropping natural beauty. Among its natural attractions are the snow capped mountain peaks, scenic vistas, rich vegetation and a various adventure spots for the out going and sports enthusiasts. However, mountaineering or trekking is not limited to this area. Places like the Shimla in Himachal Pradesh and the destination for trekkers in Kullu Valley and the Kodaikanal which is located in Tamil Nadu, another popular trekking ground.
There are too many places to visit in your Indian vacation. You could realize that time is so short that you would have to make the best out of each minute. Some tourists would say they could never get everything out from India in just one visit, which is why they return for more.
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Synonyms: Ndia, nIdia, IIndia, Idia, Idnia, Inndia, Inia, Inida, Inddia, Inda, Indai, Indiia, Indi, and Indiaa are typos for India. for "travel."