13 Reasons Why You Should Visit India at Least Once in Your Lifetime
India has emerged as one of the fastest growing economies in the world, just 7 decades after its independence. Located in South Asia, the country consists of 29 states and 7 Union Territories, all of which have varied cultures, languages and traditions. India will mesmerize you with its colours and variety. Here are 13 reasons why India must be in your sooner-rather-than-later travel plans!
It’s affordable
The Indian currency, the Indian Rupee, is relatively weak against the currency of more developed nations. For US$1 you get approximately Rs64; for €1 approximately Rs72; and for £1 approximately Rs82. This makes India an extremely economical country to visit. Who doesn’t appreciate a holiday that doesn’t burn a hole in the pockets?
The rich art and history
The photography
India is a photogenic country, to say the least. The diverse flora and fauna, colours, people and topography are a few reasons it is one of the best locations a photographer could come to. The skyscrapers in the cities, which reflect India’s growth, are as much a delight to capture as the beautiful hinterland.
The delicious food
Indians eat an enormous variety of food. Daily staples include whole-wheat flat breads, lentils, vegetables and fruit. India’s food culture is an assortment of Mughlai (Central Asian), Arab (Middle Eastern), and European cuisine. The Portuguese settled in India for hundreds of years and influenced the coastal cuisine. The food in southern and northern areas of the country are poles apart.
Plus, Indian street food is something you should not miss. From freshly fried fitters to assorted dry nibbles, the variety is endless and lip-smacking!
The extensive Indian Railways
The Indian Railway network transports almost 22 million people every day. Riding the rails in India is a unique experience; you’ll travel through the changing landscape, villages and lush green agricultural fields. The camaraderie between passengers on these journeys is something not often seen elsewhere. People start chatting and soon enough, a large group of passengers gather to pass time by bantering.
The national sport – cricket
India’s cricket fanaticism is unparalleled. Here, cricketers are practically worshiped. The adrenaline rush you’ll experience watching a cricket match live in India is like no other: firecrackers burst and impromptu road rallies held after India wins a difficult match!
Stay on a shikara/house boat
House boats in Kashmir and Kerala — at two opposite ends of India — will give you an experience you’ll never forget. The beautiful woodwork in the house-boats of Kashmir and the cane decor of those in Kerala are magnificent. Equipped with most modern comforts onboard, these boats offer the privilege of staying amidst nature on the serene water.
Attend a spectacular festival
India is comprised of many religions, and with many beliefs come many gods and many reasons to worship and celebrate. Somewhere in India, a festival is being celebrated almost every day. The most significant are Holi (the festivals of colours), Diwali (the festival of lights) and Ganpati (in honour of Lord Ganesha). The colours, songs, dances, lights and food will make you fall in love with India.
The 7 Sisters of the North-East
The North-East of India is an under-visited treasure. The people and landscape of this largely mountainous region is very different from the rest of the country. From Shiloi Lake in Nagaland, the Bihu festival in Assam and the Dampa Tiger Reserve and Kaziranga National Park, these seven states offer unbelievable beauty.
Tea
Tea is an important part of Indian daily life. A day can’t begin before gulping down a cuppa. India is the second largest producer of tea in the world (after China), and the way tea is prepared here is very interesting. In some places you’ll be served in clay tea cups, in others in glass or steel tumblers. Tea is sold in every nook and on every corner of Indian cities, so don’t fail to try it. Assam and Darjeeling, in the North-East of the country, are two important areas for tea production.
Temple architecture
India’s temple architecture is so varied and beautiful it’s sure to take your breath away. Over the centuries, the various rulers of India made temples to their gods and deities, resulting in interesting and different architectural monuments throughout the country. Highlights include the Dravidian architecture of South India, the Nagara architecture of the famous erotic Khajuraho temples, and Kalinga style temples in the East.
Exquisite palaces
India’s various kings (especially the Mughals) made gorgeous structures to live in, which you can now visit. It’s even possible to stay in some of these palaces, as some have been turned into premier hotels. Finally, your chance to feel like royalty.
The street culture
Yes, India is crowded and people, vehicles and animals share the roads and footpaths. Roadside barbers cut hair and trim beards, right out in the open. Street food is for sale. Take a ride in a three-wheeled auto-rickshaw (also called a tuk-tuk) or cycle-rickshaw and check out India’s street culture.
Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.
Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.
Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.
Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.
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