India is a mysterious blend of ancient and modern culture that offers visitors endless appeal. One could easily spend a lifetime touring its wonders, from culinary delights to incredible works of art. India has historical architecture, exotic wildlife, lush gardens, and stunning scenery. With numerous means of travel, from trains to cars, by foot or elephant, India can be toured even by people with limited funds or time. The following is a guide to a few of the best destinations in India to get a thorough view of all the country has to offer.
Historical Architecture
From temples to forts and mausoleums, India offers a plethora of architectural attractions that are not to be missed. Unquestionably first on the list is the Taj Mahal, which was built in Agra by Emperor Shah Jehan to entomb his most beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. She died after bearing her fourteenth child to her husband, and so grieved was he that he constructed the incomparable marble masterpiece. With jewels set into the elaborately carved walls, a picturesque reflection pool, and regal gardens, it should be the first stop for tourists interested in Indian architecture. Also well worth visiting while in Agra is its famous fort, which encloses numerous palaces as well as a white marble mosque. Fatehpur Sikri is another monument to Indian structural design. Built in 1640 by Akbar the Great to serve as the capital of the country, it was abandoned after only fifteen years because it had no water. It stands virtually unchanged today, a vast city of pink sandstone.
Art
The art of India is world renowned, and nowhere is the reason more obvious than at the caves of Ellora and Ajanta. Constructed between 600 and 1000 AD, these caves were carved into the mountainside in Maharashtra state to serve as temples and monasteries for Hindu and Jain monks. Situated about one hundred kilometers apart, these two caves exhibit breathtaking craftsmanship as well as what many believe to be the beginnings of classical Indian art. Three hundred miles north of New Delhi resides the town of Dharmsala, refuge of the famous Buddhist Tibetan the Dalai Lama. Among its many cultural features is the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts, which holds a stunning festival every April. Here tourists can see traditional performances of Tibetan music and dance. Afterwards they can visit the Kangra Art Museum, home of Indian art ranging from the fifth century to the present. While visiting, take time to view the museum’s artifacts, manuscripts, costumes, coins, and sculpture as well as a fine display of contemporary Indian art.
Wildlife
Numerous parks have been established in India to protect its impressive array of animals. From Bengal tigers and Indian elephants to monkeys and exotic birds, the country’s wildlife should not be overlooked. One well-known preserve is Corbett National Park, which was created especially to protect the country’s waning tiger population. The park offers car tours, watchtower animal viewing, and even elephant rides for the adventurous. It is open November through April and can be reached by road from Delhi. Another noteworthy wildlife reserve is Gir Wildlife Sanctuary, protector of the last wild lions outside of Africa. The reserve is also home to a large population of leopards, boars, four-horned antelope, and several primate species. India also has incredible forests, from the evergreen woods of the Himalayas to tropical rainforests. The Panbari Forest Reserve in Assam is a rainforest brimming with unique flora and fauna and is included in many wildlife tours.
Gardens
India has revered the garden since Medieval times, immortalizing it in art and literature. Although less common than they were when the country was under British rule, some beautiful gardens are still to be found throughout India. The tea gardens of Darjeeling offer a breathtaking view, as they are situated around an old British hill resort. Their temperate splendor can be reached via a quaint train (seen in the movie “Around the World in 80 Days”) that climbs eight thousand feet to the city. The Mughal gardens in Kashmir are some of the finest in the country, with beautiful native flowers, conifers, and various lush trees bordering lakes and manmade water channels. The breathtaking landscape is backed by the snow-capped Zabarwan Mountains.
Cuisine
A trip to India would not be complete without sampling their unique cuisine. Although major cities now offer western dishes, sampling traditional Indian foods will make the experience more enriching. There are some delicious meat dishes worth trying, but the majority of Indian food is vegetarian because of the predominance of the Hindu religion. While in Delhi, you may enjoy dining on pullao, a spiced rice dish with vegetables, or lamb fillets, which are prepared in a variety of delicious ways. Shrikhand is a sweet yogurt dish popular in northern India’s Uttar Pradesh. While visiting the southern part of the country, try Tamil Nadu specialties like the spicy vegetable soup rasam and the steamed rice dish idali. If you are concerned about food-borne illness, stick to fresh fruits and vegetables or deep fried foods. Be sure to only drink bottled water, as unhealthy bacteria and microorganisms are common in local water.
India’s culture is a unique blend of old and new, tradition and technology. A trip to India offers a delightful glimpse into an exotic culture shaped by religion, history, and artistry. You can enrich your senses by visiting its landmarks, architectural marvels, and museums. The vacation may be the beginning of a love affair that will keep you returning year after year. Explore the diversity and mystery that make India one of the most popular travel destinations in the world.
