The appeal of different things to do in India varies greatly by each traveler’s personal interest. Whether the cuisine, history, architecture, or natural beauty of the country has prompted your desire to travel in India there are regions and attractions to match. Regardless of when you go to India, there will be plenty to see on your vacation. Some of the best things to do in India include relaxing at spas, taking tours of intricate palaces, exploring the expansive deserts, wandering through authentic markets, observing wildlife, and enjoying music or dance festivals. These activities also vary by region, so when planning your trip, prioritize your activities and research the region that best fits your desires.

Visiting Temples

Popular India activities include one of the biggest draws to the country: visiting temples and shrines. Many visitors are particularly interested in travel to the Taj Mahal and, no matter how many photographs they might have seen of it, are in awe of the sheer size and perfect symmetry of the building. This attraction, which is located in Agra, can become quite crowded, so it may be a good idea to visit outside of the peak tourist season to most enjoy your experience.

Backpacking and hiking

Other things to do in India include hiking and other outdoor activities in the Himalayas. For travelers who want to avoid the heat and aren’t interested in beaches, a trip to the Himalayas can be both spiritual and adventurous. From biking and white-water rafting to yoga and meditation, travel in India can be accompanied by fresh air and magnificent mountain views. While many visitors choose India activities that include major urban attractions, an alternative trip to India could provide visitors with an authentic glimpse into Indian way of life.

Dining

Travel in India should include a variety of dining experiences, often introducing foreigners to some flavors for the first time. From food in street carts to fine-dining restaurants, often the sense most visitors associate with India is that of smell. Interesting herbs and spicy sauces accompany many Indian dishes, and first-time visitors especially should seek out a variety of dishes and ask waiters for their recommendations. No day of India activities is complete without trying something new for the first time.

Wildlife Watching

India is home to an array of wildlife, including elephants, tigers, and monkeys. Visiting a wildlife sanctuary or one of the national parks, such as Kanha National Park or Kaziranga National Park, is an excellent way to see these animals in their natural habitat. Wildlife tours are also popular among visitors to India, and they can be arranged through a range of tour companies. Many visitors to India rave about the tiger sanctuary in Kumaun Himalayans near Nepal. If you are especially interested in nature, these wildlife preserves are a must-see on a trip to India.

Trekking to Kashmir

The region of Kashmir in northern India is home to three ranges of the Himalayas, making it a great location for visitors who want to go hiking or just appreciate the beautiful scenery. Srinagar, the capital of the state of Jammu and Kashmir, boasts plenty of attractions of its own, including the spectacularly beautiful Dal Lake, which is home to a floating vegetable market.

Touring the Golden Triangle

The three cities of New Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur make up the Golden Triangle, which is a popular way to tour a portion of the country and see plenty of interesting attractions along the way. In addition to the Taj Mahal, Agra also has the Agra Fort, and Delhi boasts the spectacular Red Fort. Jaipur, known as the Pink City because of the color of many of its buildings, also is home to several forts and palaces.

There is no shortage of things to do in India. A trip to India may take more planning than other destinations, and for foreigners, there are many web sites and tour groups that make this research easier. Some visitors to India choose to hire a driver, or arrange for a well-known taxi driver beforehand. This assistance in English not only keeps visitors safe, but can help travelers appreciate the small things that may go unnoticed without the help of a guide.