Overview of India
Taj Mahal
The crown jewel of art and architecture in India, the Taj Mahal, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world and also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This white, marble mausoleum was built in memory of Emperor Shah Jahan’s third wife, Mumtaz Mahal. When you visit the Taj Mahal, you can take a walk along the reflecting pool and admire the beautiful fountains or take a tour around the grounds to experience a piece of history.
Varanasi
As the oldest living city in the world, Varanasi is also the holiest of the seven sacred cities in Hinduism.
River Ganga
You can view many pilgrims completing their devotions in the sacred River Ganga at sunrise with the backdrop of ancient buildings behind them. For those that would like to experience the river themselves and take in all the sights of Varanasi, you can take a boat ride along the ghats.
Walking Tour
The best way to experience Varanasi is by foot. Take a walk along the alleyways to experience the sights and sounds of such a historical city.
Delhi
At the heart of Northern India, lies the capital of the country, Delhi. Along with Varanasi and Jerusalem, Delhi is said to be one of the oldest living cities in the world, but that has not stopped its transition to the future with much strength in arts, education, fashion, tourism and entertainment.
Red Fort
One of the most popular tourist destinations in Delhi is the Red Fort. This brilliant, sprawling fort was built by Emperor Shah Jahan (who also built the Taj Mahal) to act as his ruling palace.
Humayun’s Tomb
Another popular destination is Humayan’s Tomb, one of Delhi’s UNESCO World Heritage sites. This tomb is a beautiful masterpiece surrounded by the lush, well-maintained gardens.
India Gate
Just as Paris has the Arc de Triumph and the Eiffel Tower, Delhi has the India Gate that acts as a monument for the soldiers that died in World War I. There is also an “eternal flame” that burns for all fallen Indian soldiers.
Leh
Located in the Indus River Valley is a small town that hosts much charm and history. You will find beautiful photographic opportunities and sights unlike any other in Leh.
Palace of the King of Ladakh
This 17th century palace is one of the most noticeable buildings in Leh. You can experience spooky corridors and beautiful exterior views. There is also a Buddhist prayer room that is still fully furnished and will give a beautiful step back in time.
Old Town
As you ascend up to the palace, you will find another beautiful opportunity for photographs in the charming Old Town.
Donkey Sanctuary
At this home for the helpless donkeys, you can take a quick stroll from the main centre right over to this sanctuary where juicy carrots are always welcomed. This is a perfect, free excursion and is an especially good activity for children.
Khardung La
This high mountain pass has become a favourite among motorbikers, mountain bikers, and auto tourists alike. Said to be the highest vehicular pass in the world, this pass is often called, “The Top of the World.”
Elephanta Caves
One of the most interesting and beautiful destinations in India is the Elephanta Caves, a network of sculpted caves on Elephanta Island. The caves consist of rock cut stone sculptures, dedicated to the god Shiva. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you will find this destination fascinating and beautiful, a great location for photography.
Valley of Flowers
If you’re looking to experience Indian nature, then be sure to visit the Valley of Flowers National Park in West Himalaya. The park is known for its meadows of endemic alpine flowers and also hosts a number of rare, endangered animals such as the Asiatic black bear, the snow leopard, the brown bear, red fox and blue sheep.
Seasonality
India holds at least three seasons: Summer, Rainy Season, and Winter and the best time to travel depends greatly on where you are headed. In fact, in some regions like the south, winter is not the traditional winter. This is in contrast to winter in India’s far north, around the Himalaya region, where you are likely to experience freezing temperatures.
In general, you can expect mostly cooler weather from November to January and more extreme heat in April and May. The Southwest will experience monsoon weather from June to September and the Northeast monsoon lasts between October and February. Beware that North-Eastern India experiences the highest rainfall in the world, so you may have to plan around it.
Travel Tips
A visa is required to visit India and you will probably want to visit the local embassy to get one prior to leaving for your trip.
Also be aware that in February or March, India will celebrate Holi, which is the festival of colour and involves a free-for-all of coloured powder being thrown around. Participants play, chase and colour each other and friends and strangers are fair game. If you have no intention of joining in on the fun, you may not want to visit during this holiday.
Beyond this, there is a higher rate of petty theft and pickpocketry in India’s largest cities. One of the best ways to protect yourself and your belongings is with a travel insurance policy that has lost luggage cover and protection against unexpected mishaps.