What to do in India (other than the Taj Mahal)
What to do in India (other than the Taj Mahal)
When it comes to traveling in India, there is an abundance of wondrous things to do that are often left undiscovered. These hidden gems are just as spectacular as the Taj Mahal in Agra, yet they’ve not yet made it to everyone’s bucket lists.
Stay ahead of the crowds and discover the top 10 things to do in India that aren’t the Taj Mahal.
Golden Temple, Amritsar
Don’t visit Amritsar without a trip to the divine Golden Temple. Showcasing a blend of Hindu and Islamic design and architecture, the gleaming gold temple is difficult to miss. When walking down the waterfront causeway, admire the dome on the top of the edifice which is gilded with 750kg of gold. This Sikh temple attracts visitors from all over the world, who visit for its spiritual value and to admire the impressive structure.
Discover Amritsar
Golden Temple, Amritsar
Don’t visit Amritsar without a trip to the divine Golden Temple. Showcasing a blend of Hindu and Islamic design and architecture, the gleaming gold temple is difficult to miss. When walking down the waterfront causeway, admire the dome on the top of the edifice which is gilded with 750kg of gold. This Sikh temple attracts visitors from all over the world, who visit for its spiritual value and to admire the impressive structure.
Discover Amritsar
Elephanta Island, Mumbai
Take a trip from Mumbai to the harbor where the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Elephanta Caves lies on the island of Gharapuri. Take an adventurous walk or a miniature train up to the labyrinth of caves that this area is known for – look out for the Trimurti sculpture which is the most prominent one in the cave. Spend some time wandering through the assortment of temples and admire some of India’s most impressive rock carvings. You can access the island by boat from the Gateway of India, in Mumbai.
Matheran Hill Railway, Maharashta
There are several trains in India that will take you from Point A to Point B, but not all of them are as unique as the Matheran Hill Railway. Making tracks from Neral, this quaint steam train winds its way through the luscious, verdant valleys of the Western Ghats. The views along the way are truly spectacular, providing a unique opportunity to see some of India’s remote scenery. Take the express train from Mumbai to Neral to get there.
Food Street, Bengaluru
Immerse yourself in India’s street food scene and spend an evening on Food Street in the center of Bangalore. The street is filled with Indian delicacies, from rotis to daal, bhajiis to gulkun ice cream. Taste the difference between the regions, as there are food stalls from most Indian cities. We recommend visiting the street with friends and family, just so that you can share food and try as many dishes as possible!
Discover Bengaluru
Food Street, Bengaluru
Immerse yourself in India’s street food scene and spend an evening on Food Street in the center of Bangalore. The street is filled with Indian delicacies, from rotis to daal, bhajiis to gulkun ice cream. Taste the difference between the regions, as there are food stalls from most Indian cities. We recommend visiting the street with friends and family, just so that you can share food and try as many dishes as possible!
Discover Bengaluru
Mehrauli Archaeological Park, Delhi
Comprised of an abundance of tombs, mosques, palaces, ruins and more, Mehrauli Archaeological Park is a must-do place to explore in Delhi. Providing a huge range of historical Indian landmarks to admire, it is also home to some of India’s incredible natural beauty such as wildlife, gardens and wild scenery. We recommend spending a full day in the park as there are many impressive monuments to wander through and explore – it’s also a nice escape from the bustling city of Delhi.
Red Fort, Delhi
Once a residence to the emperors of the Mughal dynasty, Red Fort is now known as a politically significant Delhi monument and the symbolic hub of India’s independence. Made of red sandstone, the architecture of this building is what is most appealing to visitors of the fort. The monument is also home to museums, markets and shows. We recommend taking a guided tour through Red Fort to learn all there is to know about this historical Delhi landmark.
Golconda Fort, Hyderabad
For a taste of India’s history, take a day trip to the iconic Golconda Fort, located on the outskirts of Hyderabad. The expansive 7 mile long fort was originally built to protect an ancient city famous for its diamond mines, which explains the 15 to 18 foot walls along the perimeter. Attend one of the sound & light shows whilst you’re there to learn about the fort’s interesting history and facts.
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Golconda Fort, Hyderabad
For a taste of India’s history, take a day trip to the iconic Golconda Fort, located on the outskirts of Hyderabad. The expansive 7 mile long fort was originally built to protect an ancient city famous for its diamond mines, which explains the 15 to 18 foot walls along the perimeter. Attend one of the sound & light shows whilst you’re there to learn about the fort’s interesting history and facts.
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India’s many festivals
From Diwali to Holi and many more in between, each area in India holds their own local festival throughout the year. Every city comes alive with color, culture and bustling street scenes, providing a once in a lifetime experience for visitors. It’s the perfect chance to immerse yourself in traditional culture, get to know the locals, taste some authentic Indian delicacies and much more.
Kerala’s palm-lined waters
Explore the lagoons, lakes and canals of Kerala by taking a boat trip from the shores of Kochi. Discover the luscious waterfront landscapes, exotic wildlife and authentic lakeside villages – the sheer beauty you’ll see on the water is truly unforgettable. We recommend taking a boat that stops at Kakkathuruthu Island on Vembanad Lake, as it is known for its particularly spectacular sunsets.
The undiscovered beaches in Goa
India is generally not known for its beaches, but Goa is certainly one to add to the beach bucket list. This hidden gem is laden with tropical scenes, bustling beach towns and remote, serene bays. Take a few days to explore Morjim Beach, known for its unsurpassed beauty and tranquility. It is also one of the local turtle hatching sites, making it the perfect spot to spy some of India’s incredible wildlife.
Discover Goa
The undiscovered beaches in Goa
India is generally not known for its beaches, but Goa is certainly one to add to the beach bucket list. This hidden gem is laden with tropical scenes, bustling beach towns and remote, serene bays. Take a few days to explore Morjim Beach, known for its unsurpassed beauty and tranquility. It is also one of the local turtle hatching sites, making it the perfect spot to spy some of India’s incredible wildlife.
Discover Goa