Being one of the most diverse and vibrant countries in the world, India is a paradise for any traveler who wants to explore and have fun. For the people with such curiosity to explore more and the courage to do so, the country has many experiences to offer that cannot be categorized as routine. India is truly an extraordinary travel destination as it offers everything starting with the temple trails and big city tours to wildlife and cultural tours. Here’s a guide to the must-visit destinations in India for travelers who are seeking a holiday adventure.
1. Varanasi: The Spiritual Heart of India
Why Visit: Varanasi is one of the oldest cities which exist in the territory of India: it is the combination of life and death on the banks of the Ganges river. This historical town is considered a sacred Hindu place where only the soul can be washed in the river and some kind of rituals for ancestors can be conducted. Adventure seekers will find Varanasi a very intense place, which is greatly immersed in Indian spirituality.
Must-Do Experiences:
- Experience the spiritual lighting up of the Ganga river at Dashashwamedh Ghat with some priests using fire, lamps, incense, and singing hymns.
- Early morning, take a boat ride across the Ganges and observe the people’s early morning rituals and the view of the ghats.
- Witness ancient architecture and narrow lanes, temples vibrant markets, ashrams, and other such structures of the old city.
2. Ladakh: The Land of High Passes
Why Visit: The beautiful and adventurous land called Ladakh will surely be worthwhile for those interested in stunning views. This state is found in the northernmost part of India and has features such as high altitude desert, barren land, and vibrant Buddhist culture. Full of monasteries nestled in the mountain ranges, crystal clear lakes, and some of the most challenging mountain passes the region is truly a traveler’s delight!
Must-Do Experiences:
- Take a thrilling ride on the largest and highest inhabited island of the world, the Khardung La Pass and get the best views of the Himalayan range.
- In Leh, you can visit the monasteries of Hemis, Thiksey, and Diskit, where you will be able to see Buddhist ceremonies and amazing paintings and sculptures.
- Watch the ethereal and constantly shifting colors of Pangong Lake, which sits at an altitude of 4,350 meters above sea level.
3. Hampi: The Lost City of the Vijayanagara Empire
Why Visit: Hampi is situated in the state of Karnataka and is the remains of a vast city that was the capital of the mighty Vijayanagara Empire. Today, it has become but a hulk of the rich heritage and tales of opulence and advancement it used to embody. Historians and travelers can find it a wonderful place to visit because it has a great history with magnificent temples, royal palaces, fortresses, and giant boulders.
Must-Do Experiences:
- Visit the Virupaksha Temple which is one of the oldest functional temples of India and take a look at the magnificent gopuram and beautiful carving.
- Take a walk in the Royal Enclosure; here one can also find the ruins of the king’s palace, the underground room, and the massive platform of the Mahanavami Dibba.
- Remember to visit Matanga Hill to get a better view of the ruins, especially in the morning or early evening when the sun is setting.
4. Rann of Kutch: India’s White Desert
Why Visit: The Rann of Kutch also known as the Great White Rann is a vast salt marsh located in Gujarat. This strange place where the ground gives way to the horizon in a sea of white is an indispensable destination for travelers aiming to see something quite exceptional. The Rann of Kutch is also inhabited by communities with unique and rich traditions and has a history of arts and cultures especially in the annual festival called the Rann Utsav festival.
Must-Do Experiences:
- Visit the Rann Utsav, a festival that is celebrated between November and February where you can also sleep in luxurious tents, listen to local music, see dancers performing, and hopefully, buy yourself some souvenirs.
- Ride a camel across the salt plains in the evening when the desert comes alive and sparkles.
- Visit two neighboring towns, Bhujodi and Ajrakhpur, famous for hand weaving and block printing arts, respectively.
5. Meghalaya: The Abode of Clouds
Why Visit: Meghalaya in the northeastern region of India is the place that will delight lovers of nature and outdoor activities. Most commonly referred to as the “Abode of Clouds,” this state is blessed with living root bridges, verdant hills, and some of the highest recorded rainfall areas of the world. Meghalaya is a perfect destination for the curious and the brave – offering stunning views of nature in conjunction with cultural sights and attractions.
Must-Do Experiences:
- Wander through the two-tier living root bridge in Nongriat that has been constructed by the Khasi tribe using the roots of rubber trees.
- Trek through the Meghalaya rainforest, visit the second wettest place on earth Cherrapunji, and see some of the mighty waterfalls in Meghalaya like Nohkalikai, seven sisters falls, etc.
- Visit the village of Mawlynnong which has been declared the cleanest village in Asia and get to know more about the Khasi people and their customs.
Conclusion
India is a country of promise, where one can find unexplored places at every nook and corner of the nation. For the adventurous and culture-conscious traveler, these visitor attractions in India combine perfectly both the adventurous spirit and beauty of Indian heritage. Whether you simply dip your toes into the holy waters of Varanasi, challenge the treacherous mountains of Ladakh, or feel like you are on another planet walking through the salt desert of the Rann of Kutch, India will not cease to amaze you.
So, put on your bags, welcome the unknown and start your discovery tour through the most fascinating places in India – everywhere one meets an invitation to discover, to learn and be amazed.
