If you have never been to India, you will want to start by places to visit the Taj Mahal, a beautiful monument to love and affection built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Noor Jahan, who died while giving birth to her fourteenth child. The Taj Mahal is an elegant mausoleum made entirely of white marble and is one of the finest examples of Mughal architecture. The Taj Mahal complex is enormous, spanning over seventeen hectares and includes a mosque and several gardens around the mausoleum.
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Varanasi
If you love spirituality and Hinduism, Varanasi is the perfect destination. This holy city is the heart of Hinduism. Visitors can participate in puja ceremonies to worship Hindu gods, or see their ancestors performing the ritual of offering water. They can also donate to the poor, which is a deeply moving experience. The city is located about one and a half hours south of New Delhi, making it the perfect day trip.
In Varanasi, visitors will find many Hindu temples and mosques. You can visit the Kashi Vishwanath temple, which was built in 1776. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and its dome is made of 800 kilograms of gold. This is considered one of the holiest Hindu temples in the world, and pilgrims equate bathing in the Ganges River with attaining spiritual liberation.
Another great thing to do while in Varanasi is to visit the Ghats. The Ghats are stone steps that lead down to the water. People take holy baths on these ghats. The Ghats in Varanasi are over 80 years old, and most of them were built during the Mughal era. As a result, you’ll find that these ancient temples are a must-see while in Varanasi.
Agra Fort
The city of Agra is a must-see on your visit to India. Agra Fort was built by the great Emperor Akbar over a hundred years ago, before the Taj Mahal was even built. The beautiful fort is a striking sight. It is worth visiting the Taj Mahal for the dazzling blue of its waters and for its awe-inspiring architecture.
You can also spend a few hours walking through the Old City and enjoying the architecture. You’ll learn about Agra’s history, architecture, and culture, and you’ll have the chance to sample street food and learn about local customs. If you have time, you’ll also want to visit the bustling wholesale spice market and its oldest sweet shop. The UNESCO-listed Agra Fort is an unforgettable experience that should not be missed.
After you’ve toured the fort, make sure to stop by the Shahjahani Mahal. This red sandstone palace was built for the Mughals, who were interested in transforming it into white marble. The Diwan-I-Am hall, another Shah Jahan creation, was originally made of red sandstone, but was shell-plastered to give it a white marble appearance. The Ghaznin Gate, a tomb belonging to Mahmud of Ghazni, was moved into the fort during the British rule.
Leh
If you are an adventure enthusiast, you can visit the Hemis National Park in Leh. This is the highest battlefield in the world and you can see different military artifacts and weapons in this museum. It also houses the Hall of Fame Museum, which is maintained by the Indian Army. You can learn about the history of Leh and Ladakh, as well as the battle that took place there.
If you’re a Buddhist, make sure to visit the ancient Buddhist monastery, Chemrey. This monastery dates back to the eleventh century, according to local residents. Its walls are covered in emboldened scriptures, which are used to teach the Buddha’s teachings. The views are breathtaking. You should spend some time here to appreciate the beauty of nature. You can also take a nap on the roof of a monastery if you’d like to relax after an adventure.
There are many things to do in Leh. There are many opportunities for outdoor activities, including river rafting. In fact, you can find some of the best rafting opportunities here. Camping is also a great way to experience the Ladakhi culture. There are many beautiful camping locations around the city. If you’re an adventurous type, consider going on a homestay experience.
Shimla
The town is known for its offbeat settings, but it is also a popular destination for shoppers. Aside from its many shopping malls, Shimla is also home to several offbeat locations. The famous Prospect Hill is a popular picnic spot. At an elevation of 2,175 meters, Prospect Hill offers sweeping views of Shimla and Himachal Pradesh. There are a lot of things to do in Shimla.
The highest point in Shimla, Jakhoo Hill, is an excellent place to take in the scenic views of the town. This hill is also home to a historic Hanuman temple, featuring the tallest Hanuman statue in the world. While you’re there, make sure you take the time to pay a visit to the temple, which has sensors that drive away birds. It is also popular with travelers.
Another popular attraction in Shimla is the Viceregal Lodge. Situated between Mall Road and the Ridge, Scandal Point is often crowded with visitors. Historically, the Viceroys who ruled the country between 1888 and 1946 used to stay here during the hot Indian summers. It is an iconic building with beautifully manicured gardens. You can explore the town on foot, and you’ll be able to appreciate its beautiful architecture.
Haridwar
The pilgrimage to Haridwar is incomplete without visiting the Bara Bazaar. Located 18 km from Haridwar, this bazaar is the perfect spot for shopping. You will find a wide variety of products including Ayurvedic medicines, Rudraksha seeds, and sweets. You can also visit the nearby Sariska National Park to spot exotic wild animals. There are several museums and temples worth visiting as well.
The city’s most famous attraction is the Lord Shiva statue, visible from a distance. If you visit during the day, you’ll find that the statue can be seen from the nearby Har Ki Pauri temple. Alternatively, you can spend some time shopping at the Bara Bazaar, which has religious handicrafts and a huge variety of sweets. The Bara Bazaar is also a great place to buy Rudraksha seeds and other religious items.
Another must-visit attraction is the Gauri Shankar Mahadev Temple. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, and is spread across three acres. Construction began in the year 2000 and lasted 16 years. This temple has stunning architecture, complemented by lush greenery. If you’re seeking peace and serenity, Haridwar is an ideal place to visit. If you’re planning to visit the city, make sure to visit during the Shivratri festival.
Munnar
Munnar is situated on the foot of the Western Ghats and is a popular tourist destination in India. The town is surrounded by rolling hills, tea plantations, and cotton-white mist. The region also boasts of pristine lakes and mirror-like landscapes. It promises to offer breathtaking sunrises and sunsets. The town also has a few things to do, but a trip here is not complete without exploring the local attractions.
The town has four waterfalls, one of which is the famous Munnar Falls. It is a favorite among photographers and adventure seekers alike. This location is also perfect for a picnic or camping trip. Visitors can cross a wooden bridge to get to the falls. The nearby Tata Tea Museum gives a fascinating history of tea growing in Munnar. It also offers free cardamom tea, though there are a few specific hours.
The town is also renowned for its tea plantations. The Tata Tea Company manages Shiv Mallay Estate, located near the Kanan Devan hills. The estate’s name is a reference to the Hindu god Shiv, which is said to protect the town and its inhabitants. Visitors will be rewarded with breathtaking views and a bungalow in the middle. Munnar is one of the best places to visit in India.
Kolkata
Listed as one of the top 10 tourist destinations in India, Kolkata can be a wonderful getaway for families. Park Street, also known as Mother Teresa Sarani, is a major access route to the city and is one of the city’s most popular hangouts. Chowringhee Road, also known as Jawaharlal Nehru Road, is an incredibly vibrant area. Locals and tourists alike flock to this area for its trendy cafes, malls, and shops.
The Birla Mandir is a complex of three engraved marble Hindu temples, built in the late twentieth century and named after the industrialists who sponsored the sanctuary. Inside the temple, you will find shrines to Lord Krishna, Goddess Radha, and Lord Shiva. The Birla Mandir is also free to enter, although photographs are not permitted. Park Circus 7 Point is the nearest railway station. Once inside, you’ll be surrounded by awe-inspiring architecture and culture.
Science City Museum is a popular destination in Kolkata, with highlights including 3D shows, the Space Theatre, the Dinosaurs Complex, and the Evolution Theme Park. Despite being a popular attraction, science is not only fun, but educational as well. The Science City was officially opened on July 1, 1997 and has become a main attraction for visitors to Kolkata. If you have kids, you can take them to Science City to learn more about the fascinating world of science.