India, the beautiful and fabled land, is recognised for its extremes, history, and vast diversity. The country remains one of the world’s most popular tourism destinations, attracting backpackers, cultural and spiritual seekers, and simply those looking for a good time.
Given that India is also the birthplace of yoga, it’s no wonder that many travellers from all over the world visit India for a yoga retreat. Whether you like it or not, your journey to India will undoubtedly be one of the most unforgettable experiences of your life. I’ve had the honour of spending many years in this great country, and these are my own recommendations for the best and most beautiful spots to visit based on my experiences.
1. Agra and the Taj Mahal — India’s most iconic attractions
Agra is a must-see on any India itinerary. Agra has several attractions for visitors, the most famous of which is the Taj Mahal, which is both iconic and gorgeous. UNESCO World Heritage Site and everlasting symbol of love (it was built by an emperor in memory of his third wife).
The white-domed tower features exquisitely crafted interiors, serene grounds, and a collection of other remarkable structures.
The white-domed tower features exquisitely crafted interiors, serene grounds, and a collection of other remarkable structures.
The white-domed tower features exquisitely crafted interiors, serene grounds, and a collection of other remarkable structures.
The Taj Mahal’s sibling landmark, the Agra Fort, is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The impressive fort dates back to the year 1000, although it was later remodelled in the 1500s to serve as a palace. Akbar’s Monument, a beautiful red-ochre sandstone tomb and another architectural wonder, is 13 kilometres from the Agra Fort.
From big hotels to wonderful hostels and guest houses, there are plenty of great places to stay.
2. Goa is a well-known beach and party destination
The famed exquisite party spot should not be missed, and it is still one of India’s most popular and lovely tourist destinations. If you wish to go, I suggest staying within the island’s coastline zones. Goa is India’s smallest state, but it has by far the most stunning beaches, so take advantage of them while you’re here.
Many people describe to Goa as a tropical paradise, and you’ll undoubtedly agree once you’ve experienced the warm temperatures, beautiful turquoise ocean, and palm palms. If you visit during the Goa Carnival, which takes place in February, you will be treated to three days and nights of music, lights, dancers, and delicious food.
When the legendary King Momo takes control of the state, the island becomes a party hotspot. Originally celebrated only by residents in the 1800s, it is today visited by both tourists and locals.
3. Varanasi is a fascinating and picturesque city revered by Hindus, Buddhists, and Jains alike
Varanasi would be the place to go if you wanted to capture the essence of Hindu devotion. Walking along the ghats along the Ganges in this Uttar Pradesh city is an unforgettable experience for visitors.
Even though this city is vibrant, it is fundamentally about death and rebirth. By day, you may watch public cremation rites on the Ganges, and by night, you can see the Hindu aarti ritual. Aarti is a puja (worship) ritual in which light is offered to the gods at various ghats.
Sadhus, as well as babas and aghoris, spend their days on the ghats. Sadhus are holy men who wear orange robes, babas are spiritual gurus, and aghoris consume the blood of the dead and cover themselves in cremation ashes.
Be cautious since not everyone has good intentions. Holy men are frequently seen naked and smeared in powder or ashes; some even adorn their penises and perform tricks with them for tourists. Varanasi is not a place for the faint of heart.
4. Kerala’s backwaters are a network of brackish lagoons and a popular tourist destination in India
The backwaters, a lovely line of lakes and lagoons along the Arabian Sea coast, are a site in India that should not be missed — they are the country’s most popular tourist destination. Ferries will carry you wherever you want to go, and you can even rent a houseboat to stay in.
Boat races are also held in the Kuttanad district of Alappuzha, where you can see snake boats that can hold up to a hundred oarsmen. Thousands of supporters line the riverbanks to support their favourite teams, creating a fantastic atmosphere.
5. The towers of the Hindu Kapaleeshwarar Temple were formerly the largest structures in one of India’s ancient cities
With many stunning Hindu temples and ruins, Chennai and Tamil Nadu are one of India’s most spiritual places. The magnificent Hindu Kapaleeshwarar Temple is located in the Mylapore neighbourhood of Chennai (previously known as Madras). It has an amazing rainbow-colored gopuram (tower) dedicated to Lord Shiva, as well as a big pool within its boundaries.
The lively Marina beach, the world’s second-longest urban beach, lies nearby, a bustling length of land with its own lighthouse and market. Attend service and pay a visit to the neighbouring San Thome Cathedral, which houses the tomb of St Thomas the apostle.
6. Gokarna, Karnataka is a less touristy version of Goa
The much more understated Karnataka region, with Gokarna as its crown jewel, is located further up the coast from the popular tourist state of Goa. Its laid-back ambiance and beautiful beaches have made it a favourite destination for yoga schools, retreats, and backpackers alike. The Shivaratri and Ganesh Chaturthi festivities are popular among pilgrims and visitors alike.
While the beach in Gokarna is nothing special, the nearby Kudle Beach is a lovely spot where people (and cows) play volleyball and sing till the sun sets. It’s a short walk from there to Om Beach, which is named after the renowned symbol. Small Hell Beach and Paradise Beach are a short distance away.
Every night, visitors to Paradise Beach sleep under the stars, viewing the moon when it is brilliant and the bioluminescence in the sea when the sky is cloudy and dark.
7. The lovely and magnificent ‘Blue City’ of Jodhpur
Because so many of the city’s structures are painted in a Brahmin blue colour, Jodhpur in Rajasthan is known as the ‘Blue City.’ Residents did this to show that they were Brahmins.
The beautiful Mehrangarh Fort is also located here, adding to the city’s rich heritage. Maharaja Gaj Singh II’s own collection of riches is housed within one of India’s largest forts, and there are over 15,000 items to see in total.
Throughout the day, cultural performances take place in various locations of the fort. There’s also the Umaid Bhawan Palace, the Jaswant Thada marble building, and the lovely Mandore Gardens for those who want even more history.
8. The Silk Road was an ancient commercial route that connected the East and the West
The Great Royal Road is India’s section of the Silk Route, which extends from Anatolia to China. It stretches from Taxila, near the Himalayas, to the Ganges’ mouth on the opposite side of the country.
It passes through Delhi, Allahabad, and Patna, making it a true voyage across North Indian life. India’s old silk road, like many other trade routes through Asia, has a lot to offer, from breathtaking scenery to the diverse cultures seen along the journey.
9. Gadi Sagar is one of Jaisalmer’s most well-known tourist attractions
Because of the way its yellow sandstone architecture mixes in with the Thar Desert, Jaisalmer is known as the ‘golden city.’ The Gadi Sagar is the lifeblood of this parched metropolis.
This man-made lake is encircled by temples, shrines, and ghats and has its own golden entrance. It’s also a lovely spot to see the sunset with the desert haze mirrored in the lake. Many migratory species, including spoonbills, black-winged stilts, and domestic geese, can be seen feeding at the lake.
10. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh – Arunachal Pradesh’s majestic and cultural epicentre
Tawang is a town in Arunachal Pradesh located near the Bhutanese border in the country’s north-eastern corner. While visiting Bhutan is quite expensive, you may get a taste of the same breathtaking environment at a much lower cost here.
It is significant to Buddhists because it is the birthplace of Tsangyang Gyatso, the 6th Dalai Lama. The Tawang Monastery, India’s largest, attracts a considerable number of pilgrims. The Gudpi Mountains, Tawang Valley, and Madhuri Lake, all famed locations of beauty hidden in this spectacular region, are available to nature lovers.
