India is a wonderful country in Asia filled with various cultures, traditions, religions, and history. Every inch in India has its own story to tell you. So, this is a destination that every traveler should visit in their travel life. If you are interested in discovering all the stories and mysteries, here’s the ultimate travel guide with the best things to do in India.
Things to Do in India
1. Varanasi, The Holy City
Located in the Northern Indian State of Uttar Pradesh, The holy city, Varanasi, considers India’s spiritual capital.
The city’s history runs to the 11th century B.C. So, Varanasi is famous as one of the oldest, still inhabited cities in the world.
Varanasi has over 2000 temples, including some ancient and attractive ones.
Especially, the Kashi Vishwanath Temple or the “Golden Temple” dedicated to the God Shiva is very famous among locals and tourists. Kashi Vishwanath and its 7 temples were built in the 1780s. So, it has a lot of historical stories to tell you.
On the other hand, the sacred Ganges River in Varanasi is one of Hindus’ most important religious symbols. So, thousands of Hindu pilgrims visit the sacred Ganges River to bathe the sacred waters and do funeral rites.
There are numerous locations called “ghats” that offer stairways to easily enter the river and take a bath. Hindu pilgrims surely take a bath from the Ganges River before pray.
Varanasi contains around 100 ghats along the river. And the most famous ones are Assi Ghat and Dasashvamedh Ghat (the largest one).
Also, another highlighted place to visit in Varanasi is Banaras Hindu University. Built in 1971, this university has a huge library with more than a million books. So, if you are interested in learning about India’s history, this library will help you.
For art lovers, Varanasi offers the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum. It contains a rich collection of sculptures, miniature paintings, historical exhibits, palm-leaf manuscripts, and more.
So, the holy city, Varanasi, definitely should be on the top of your India bucket list. (things to do in India)
2. Things to Do in India: Ajanta Caves
The Ajanta Caves is a mind-blowing rock-cut Buddhist cave monument in Aurangabad District, Maharashtra State, India.
A solid rock wall located around 76m above the narrow Waghora Stream has been carved into marvelous caves by humans in the 2nd century BCE. Actually, the creation happened in two phases, from the 2nd century BCE to 650 CE. Can you believe it?
Therefore, the Ajanta Caves were recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983. Containing 30 hand-carved rock chambers, those carvings are unique and surprising.
Further, the caves have paintings of buddha and rock-cut sculptures of buddha, and many Buddhist tales. They really represent the unique, wonderful Buddhist religious art.
So, The Ajanta Caves are one of the top tourist attractions in India among tourists. Do not miss it. (things to do in India)
Address: Maharashtra 431117, India.
3. Things to Do in India: The Taj Mahal
The Taj Mahal is India’s iconic and one of the most visited destinations in the world. Yes, it is a powerful symbol of love. So, especially, couples visit this place to celebrate their love.
We all know the story behind the Taj Mahal. But, for those who don’t know, The Taj Mahal was built by Emperor Shah Jahan as a lovely tribute to her most favorite wife, Mumtaz Mahal, as she died in 1631.
He started to build this magnificent palace in 1631 and completed it in 1648. He has hired over 20,000 workforces and made it by using expensive ivory white marbles. If you visit, you may see attractive floral patterns carved in marbles and various expensive stone creations. (Ex: mother of pearl, diamonds, jade, lapis lazuli)
Things to do in India: The Taj Mahal
Taj Mahal shows the brilliant Mughal Architecture, which perfectly combines the Islamic, Persian, and Indian styles. Especially, the symmetrical Persian-style garden made with attractive waterways and lawns gives attractive impressions for visitors.
Try to visit at dawn or dusk as you can see the brilliant light changing in the atmosphere. And now, it is open at night as well. So, stargazers can get awesome views of stars with the magnificent palace at night.
Also, one of the most beautiful scenes every photographer tries to catch is the Taj Mahal’s reflection on the Yamuna River located beside the palace. (Surely try a memorable selfie)
You can download the audio guide to your phone and tour around the Taj Mahal on your own. (things to do in India)
Address: Dharmapuri, Forest Colony, Tajganj, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282001, India.
If you’re looking for a trustworthy tour operator, just click here to contact the best tour operator in India. (Kerala Tour Packages is an award-winning tour operator in India. So, they surely offer you a quality service as you expect)
4. Bandipur Tiger Reserve and National Park
Spreading over 874 sq km, Bandipur Tiger Reserve and National Park is one of India’s most attractive and well-managed national parks.
Located in the southern Indian state of Karnataka (at the foot of the Western Ghat Mountains), this national park is famous for tigers, Indian elephants, gaurs, spotted deer, antelopes, and many other native animals species.
Private vehicles are not allowed to enter the park. So, you need to hire park vehicles that provide guided tours. Or you can book a resort inside the park that provides guided tours.
If you are looking for overnight accommodation, Bandipur Safari Lodge offers you private cottages with all facilities.
However, it is better to avoid weekends as the Bandipur National Park is extremely crowded. So, try to visit on weekdays to watch animals easily. (things to do in India)
5. Jaisalmer, The Golden City
Located in the western Indian state of Rajasthan, Jaisalmer is a former medieval trading city. It is exactly located in the middle of the Thar Desert and impressively distinguished by the yellow sandstone architecture.
Yes, most of the buildings in Jaisalmer are built using yellow sandstone, and they shine in golden color through the Thar Desert. That’s why it calls “Golden City.”
Jaisalmer’s skyline dominates Jaisalmer’s Fort or Golden Fort, an attractive hilltop fortress buttressed by 99 bastions. It was built in the 12th century, and now it is the iconic landmark of Jaisalmer.
On the other hand, there are plenty of stunning old mansions, palaces, temples, old houses, and divine gateways. Especially, the spectacular seven-story tall Maharaja’s Palace is more famous among tourists.
The Maharaja’s Palace has impressive architecture, carved stone doors, valuable tiles made in China and Italy, and several Jain Temples of the 12th century. Those temples also have impressive architecture, colorfully painted ceilings, sandstone and marble images, and palm-leaf manuscripts.
Do you believe it? There’s a 1000-year-old library in Jaisalmer called Gyan Bhandar. And it still contains 16th-century old reading sources and antiquities.
So, visiting Jaisalmer in Rajasthan is one of the best things to do in India for sure.
6. Things to Do in India: Amber Palace
Amber Palace or Amer Fort is an ancient fortified palace located in Jaipur, Rajasthan (just 7 miles away from Jaipur). It was built by King Raja Man Singh and Sawai Jai Singh in 1592.
Amber Palace was built using red and white sandstones representing the Hindu, Rajput, and Muslim architectural styles.
If you like to get spectacular views, you should visit the Jaigarh Fort located above the Amer Fort. It has awesome lookout towers, the world’s largest wheeled cannon, and formidable walls like highlights.
If you are looking for more enjoyable things to do around the Amber Palace, here are some;
Visiting the stunning Sheesh Mahal, Watch the Evening Light Show, visiting the museum, visiting the formal gardens, taking an elephant back ride in Jaleb Chawk, visiting Shila Devi Temple, which is dedicated to the goddess of war, visiting Jai Mandir or the Temple of Victory, visiting Shukh Niwas or the Hall of Pleasure, and more. (things to do in India)
Address: Devisinghpura, Amer, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302001, India.
7. The Golden Temple of Amritsar: Harmandir Sahib
The Golden Temple or Harmandir Sahib is a major spiritual site of Sikhism. Located in Amritsar, Punjab, this temple considers as the “Adobe of God.”
It was founded in 1577 and famous among tourists due to its shiny golden architecture. As mentioned earlier, The Golden Temple takes an important place in Sikh history and culture. The golden dome of this temple shows a lotus flower as a symbol of the purity of Sikhs. So, thousands of Sikhs annually visit this temple to pray.
The other parts of the temple represent attractive Islamic and Hindu architectural styles.
Beyond everything, the special feature of this temple is the unique spiritual atmosphere. Whether you are a Sikh, Hindu, Islam, Christian, or whoever, The Golden Temple’s spiritual atmosphere will release your stress.
So, just visit there and feel the divine atmosphere. (things to do in India)
Address: Golden Temple Rd, Atta Mandi, Katra Ahluwalia, Amritsar, Punjab 143006, India.
8. The Ancient Step Wells
Especially, Rajasthan and Gujarat are dry states in India. In ancient times, the people needed to preserve the rainwater that gets from the annual monsoon seasons. So, they built these amazing Ancient Step Wells back in 550 AD.
The Ancient Step Wells are very deep and contain hundreds of steps to reach the water easily. And there are plenty of Step Wells in these states. But, the majority is not preserved well.
You can visit the Adalaj Stepwell in Gujarat. It is well preserved and has an impressive design. Located just 12 miles away from Ahmedabad, it was constructed in 1499.
Actually, Adalaj Stepwell is also a symbol of pure love because Queen Rudadevi constructed it as a memory of her lovely husband, Rana Veer Singh.
It is five stories deep and contains impressive Hindu and Islamic architectural designs. Even the stairs are carved with stunning designs. So, do not miss this exciting Ancient Step Well on your Indian tour. (things to do in India)
Address: Adalaj Rd, Adalaj, Gujarat 382421, India.
9. The Red Fort New Delhi
The Red Fort was the main residence of the Mughal Emperors for over 2000 years. Although it is located in New Delhi, it is a historic fort built between 1639 and 1648 by the famous emperor Shah Jahan. Now, it is a prominent landmark in the country and a UNESCO World Heritage Site as well.
The Red Fort is made with red sandstones and beautiful marble decorations. But, on the other hand, its stunning crescent-shaped architecture still impresses the visitors. The architecture of this divine fort was the famous Mughal architect Ustad Ahmed Lahouri.
If you visit this fort, you can imagine how it was during the Mughal Dynasty.
The guided tours are available. But, you can tour yourself by downloading the audio guide from the internet. (things to do in India)
Address: Netaji Subhash Marg, Lal Qila, Chandni Chawk, New Delhi, Delhi 110006, India.
10. Things to Do in India: City Palace Jaipur
When king Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II moved his court from Amber to Jaipur, he established The City Palace Jaipur in 1727.
Located in the Old Town Jaipur’s heart, visiting The City Palace is one of the best things to do in India. Although it has gone through several repairs, you can still see the authentic Mughal and Rajasthani architectural styles.
After sightseeing around the palace, you can visit the Textile and Royal Armory Museums located inside.
If you like to know more historical facts about The City Palace Jaipur, you can hire a local guide. Or you can tour at your own pace by downloading the audio guide to your phone. (things to do in India)
Address: Tulsi Marg, Gangori Bazaar, J.D.A. Market, Pink City, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302002, India.
11. The Gateway of India
The Gateway of India is an iconic landmark in the country, built in 1913. Located in Mumbai, Maharashtra, it is 26m tall and was the city’s tallest structure for many years.
The iconic Gateway of India is overlooking the Arabian Sea and offers scenic views. But, actually, the reason for building this huge structure was to commemorate Queen Mary and King George V’s arrival.
This structure was designed using the Indo-Saracenic architectural style, and it is very famous among locals and tourists. Every traveler does not forget to take a memorable selfie at The Gateway of India. So, just take a selfie. (things to do in India)
Address: Apollo Badar, Colaba, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400001, India.
12. Things to Do in India: Dudhsagar Falls
Goa is a famous beach state in India. So, nobody misses Goa on their Indian tour. When you travel to Goa, you’ll find this wonderful waterfall, Dudhsagar Falls, located on Karnataka and Goa’s border.
It is a four-tiered waterfall created from the Mandovi River and located in the Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary and Mollem National Park.
Being one of the tallest waterfalls in the country, Dudhsagar Falls is 1017 feet high. And the maximum width in the monsoon rain season is around 100 feet.
If you are looking for adventurous things to do in India, Dudhsagar Falls is ideal for you. It has a 10km scenic trail along a railway line to reach the waterfall. So just walk along this joyful trail.
In the dry season, jeep taxis are also available to reach the waterfall. But, when the roads are wet in the wet season, you have to hire a bike taxi.
However, the wet season is the best time to see the most spectacular Dudhsagar Falls. (things to do in India)
Address: Sonaulim, Goa 403401, India.
13. Mecca Masjid, Hyderabad
Being one of the largest mosques globally, Mecca Masjid is a congregational mosque located in Hyderabad. After 80 years of construction, it was opened in 1694.
Mecca Masjid can accommodate around 20,000 prayers at once. And it has a divine architectural design. You can see an impressive main gateway, a huge human-made pond, a huge plaza, and a room with famous religious leader Prophet Mohammed’s hair.
On the other hand, the impressive floral designs and 15 enormous arches add more value to this wonderful Islamic architectural design. (things to do in India)
Address: Charminar Rd, Charminar, Ghansi Bazaar, Hyderabad, Telangana 500002, India.
14. Things to Do in India: Ellora Caves
Ellora is another impressive UNESCO World Heritage Site in Maharashtra.
Ellora Caves are one of the largest and oldest rock-cut temple cave complexes in the world, built between the 5th and 10th centuries. Representing Buddhist, Hindu, Brahamanist, and Jain artwork and monuments, Ellora Caves is one of India’s most impressive tourist attractions.
Spreading over two square kilometers, this cave complex contains 34 temples. Humans do all the carvings and artwork. Isn’t it amazing?
You may think Ellora Caves sounds quite similar to Ajanta Caves. But it is not. Ajantha Caves contains only Buddhist monuments.
But, Ellora Caves contains Buddhist, Hindu, Brahamanist, and Jain monuments. So, it really demonstrates religious tolerance.
Visit both Ajanta and Ellora Cave and compare. If you are an art lover or art student, it will be very important. (things to do in India)
Address: Ellora Cave Rd, Ellora, Maharashtra 431102, India.
15. Things to Do in India: Goa Beaches
Located in western India, Goa is a coastal state stretching along the Arabian Sea. Tourists call it a “Go-to” destination in India as it is very famous among beach travelers.
If you are looking for a great beach vacation in India, Goa is ideal.
Having over 60 miles of coastline, Goa is home to the loveliest beaches in India. Actually, it is among the best beaches in the world as well. Goa’s specialty is that it has different kinds of beaches that suitable for any kind of traveler.
If you are looking for a quiet, peaceful, and secluded beach, Agonda Beach in Goa is perfect. On the other hand, Calagunte and Paradise beaches are party beaches for party lovers.
For those who seek a luxury beach vacation, Ashwem, Mandrem, and Morjim beaches are perfect. You can get yoga and spa experiences there. So, wealthy locals, celebrities, and westerners are mostly attracted to these beaches.
Also, you can take an island tour when you are in Goa. Just take a ferry ride from Old Goa to Divar Island, a sensational island near Goa. Once you reach there, you can experience Goan villagers’ authentic rural lifestyle, visit the Church of Our Lady Compassion, eat delicious seafood, and observe stunning countryside.
Another highlighted destination to visit in Goa is Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary. After doing all the beach activities, this will add a change to your holiday because Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary contains various native fauna and flora.
You can see seers, monkeys, tigers, elephants, black panthers, leopards, 200 bird species, and famous India’s king cobras.
So, visiting Goa is one of the most fun things to do in India for sure.
16. Great Wall of India
Not only China but India also has a Great Wall. Second only to China’s Great Wall.
Located in Rajsamand province in India, the Great Wall of India stretches for 22 miles around the Kumbhalgarh Fort. It is really an amazing structure built over 500 years ago.
Nowadays, engineers surprise by seeing the technology used to build the Great Wall of India and the Kumbhalgarh Fort. Therefore, it was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
However, this wall and the fort were built as a safeguard to protect over 300 temples located inside. If you like to climb to the top, it is quite a hard trail and takes around 40 minutes. (things to do in India)
Hire a local guide to know all information about this ancient place.
Address: Kumbhalgarh, Rajasthan 313325, India.
17. Periyar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary
Periyar National Park or Periyar Tiger Reserve is located in the mountainous Western Ghats of Kerala, South India. Covering around 600 square miles, it is home to a variety of fauna and flora. Especially tigers, elephants, leopards, lion-tailed macaques, sambar deers, Indian bison, birds, and butterflies.
Also, there’s a lake in this park that was built in 1895 by British engineers to fulfill the water requirements of Madurai.
Being one of the 27 tiger reserves in India, you are getting an opportunity to see the Bengal tigers. If you are really into wildlife, the park offers you an adventurous Tiger Trekking with a night camping experience.
The other fun things to do in Periyar National Park are boating, bamboo rafting, hiking, and camping.
Periyar National Park is one of India’s top tourist attractions, filled with wildlife and scenic nature. So, if you like to see elephants face to face, please add Periyar National Park to your list. (things to do in India)
Address: Kerala, India.
18. Things to Do in India: Hampi
Hampi is an impressive ancient city in Karnataka, South India. It was the capital of South India’s Vijayanagara Empire from 1336 to 1565. So, obviously, you can see a lot of ruins like temple complexes and impressive architectural designs.
Also, Hampi was considered the largest city in the world at that time as it was the home to over 250,000 people.
You can see impressive architectural designs made using the Indo-Saracenic architectural style. Hindu Temples with amazing carvings (ex: Virupaksha Temple, sculptures, Lotus Mahal, and wonderful Stepped Tank will surely impress you.
Do not miss this unique UNESCO World Heritage Site. (things to do in India)
19. Agra Fort
Agra Fort or the Red Fort in Agra is a wonderful Islamic architectural wonder located in Agra. It was the major residence of the Mughal emperors before they shifted the capital to Delhi in 1638.
Following a military safe structure, the Agra Fort was first built by Emperor Akbar, and then some modifications were done by Shah Jahan.
This impressive fort is located just 2 km away from the Taj Mahal. So, you can cover both on the same day.
When you enter from the Amar Singh Gate, you’ll see the large Akbari Mahal, two large interlinked sandstone buildings, Jahangiri Mahal, and more.
And also, a private palace named Khas Mahal and its copper roof are very eye-catching. On the other hand, there’s a wonderful Mughal garden filled with fountains and water channels named Anguri Bagh or Grape Garden.
You can also visit Shah Jahan’s prison, the octagonal Mussamman Burj Tower, where he stayed until death. (things to do in India)
Address: Agra Fort, Rakabganj, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282003, India.
20. Things to Do in India: Hawa Mahal
India is filled with stunning, ancient palaces. Hawa Mahal is also such a palace located in Jaipur, Rajasthan. Hawa Mahal is built using red and pink sandstone. It is really an architectural gem made in 1799.
Its wonderful beehive-shaped facade and thousands of small windows are the most highlighted features. Why thousands of lattice windows?
Well, it was designed for the women who lived in the palace to watch the outside without seeing them by outsiders. That was due to the beliefs of Islamic culture.
Address: Hawa Mahal Rd, Badi Choupad, J.D.A. Market, Pink City, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302002, India.
21. Mehrangarh Fort
Mehrangarh Fort is one of the largest forts in India. Located in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, this fort was built by the former ruler of Rajasthan, Rao Jodha, in 1459.
Since Mehrangarh Fort is located 410 feet above the city, it offers spectacular views. The aim of building this fort was to protect the people who lived in the “Blue City.” Well, what is the Blue City?
The Blue City or the Jodhpur has a lot of indigo color-painted houses. (People expect to deflect the heat)
However, Mehrangarh Fort is a wonderful creation with massively thick walls and seven splendid gates. Especially, Fateh Pol and Jaya Pol gates are more highlighted.
On the other hand, you’ll see some fascinating palaces, courtyards, a museum with ancient artifacts, and more inside the fort. Also, you can get breathtaking views as well. (things to do in India)
Address: P.B #165, The Fort Rd, Jodhpur, Rajasthan 342006, India.
22. Things to do in India: Humayun’s Tomb
Nasir-Ud-Din Mohammad or Humayun was the second emperor of the Mughal Empire. Humayun’s Tomb is his final resting place.
Located in New Delhi, Humayun’s Tomb was commissioned by Humayun’s first wife, Empress Bega Begum, in 1558.
And it shows a marvelous Mughal architectural style done by famous Persian architects Miraka Mirza Ghiyaz and Sayyid Muhammad. Especially, the innovatively decorated double domed mausoleum and the serene garden are very attractive.
You can tour around the garden and see how its water channels have divided the garden into four parts representing the Quranic Paradise’s four rivers.
On the other hand, Humayun’s Tomb is more popular as it was the first garden tomb built in India. Therefore, it was declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993.
Also, this tomb has some similarities with the Taj Mahal as well. So, if you are into architecture, do not miss it. (things to do in India)
Address: Mathura Road Opposite Hazrat Nizamuddin Aulia Dargah, Nizamuddin, New Delhi, Delhi 110013, India.
23. Mysore Palace
Mysore Palace is a beautiful historical palace located in Mysore Karnataka. Actually, it is the official royal residence of the Wadiyar dynasty and the seat of the kingdom of Mysore.
Facing the Chamundi Hills, Mysore Palace is located in a stunning environment. Also, it expresses magnificent old colonial architecture with stunning gardens. Further, it has 3 beautiful stories with elegant domes, square towers, decorative ceilings and pillars, a spectacular Marriage Pavillion, attractive floor tiles, and stunning stained glassworks.
Being Mysore’s top attraction, Mysore Palace was rebuilt in 1897 after damage to a massive fire. You can see many impressive royal exhibits like the Golden Throne, royal jewelry, and ancient artworks if you visit there. And also, the palace displays an attractive light show on Sundays and holidays.
Do not forget to take a cycle tour and explore Mysore Palace’s wonderful garden. (things to do in India)
Address: Sayyaji Rao Rd, Agrahara, Chamrajpura, Mysore, Karnataka 570001, India.
24. Things to do in India: Jantar Mantar
Are you ready to see the world’s largest sundial?
Jantar Mantar is the world’s largest sundial located in Jaipur. This is a huge stone observatory built by Maharajah Jai Singh II in 1734.
Actually, it is a collection of 19 astronomical instruments. Inside the observatory, you can see the world’s most accurate and largest sundial designed according to the famous French mathematician Philipe de la Hire’s astronomical tables.
Therefore, it was declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. But, amazingly, Jantar Mantar still works. As it is located near the City Palace, you can find it easily. Actually, visiting Jantar Mantar is one of the unique things to do in India.
Address: Gangori Bazaar, J.D.A. Market, Pink City, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302002, India.
25. Mahabodhi Temple
Mahabodhi Temple in Bodhgaya is the most prominent Buddhist temple in the world. All Buddhists believe that Buddha has attained Enlightenment exactly in this place. So, thousands of Buddhists visit Mahabodhi and do colorful merits annually.
Considering one of the most ancient temples in the world, the Mahabodhi Temple was constructed in 260 BC. After that, it has gone under so many restorations. However, due to its historical and religious value, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The most highlighted things on this religious site are the stunning Mahabodhi Temple, Buddha Statue, and the world’s oldest tree, Sri Maha Bodhi.
Buddhists believe that Buddha attained Enlightenment under this sacred tree and spent the first seven days under this tree after the Enlightenment.
Actually, not only Buddhists but also other religious pilgrims visit this temple. (things to do in India)
Address: Bodh Gaya, Bihar 824231, India.
26. Kanha Tiger Reserve
Kanha Tiger Reserve or Kanha Kisli National Park is a scenic national park located in Madya Pradesh, India.
Covering over 360 square miles, Kanha Tiger Reserve is a unique place to visit India because you can see the elegant Bengal Tigers. Actually, there are very few places in the world that you can see them. But, unfortunately, Kanha Tiger Reserve is one of them.
So, obviously, it is the main draw of this national park.
On the other hand, you’ll be able to see many indigenous animals like gaur, deer species, Indian leopard, elephants, and more. You can take a guided safari drive, elephant back safaris, or a guided nature walk on your preference.
However, visiting Kanha Tiger Reserve is one of the most exciting things to do in India. So just add it to your bucket list.
Address: Kanha, Madhya Pradesh 481111, India.
27. Things to do in India: Lotus Temple
The Lotus flower considers a sacred flower by Buddhists. Therefore, the lotus flowers’ design is used for many decorations in Buddhist temples and other creations.
The Lotus Temple in New Delhi is a stunning example of that. But, this is more famous as a Baha’i House of worship.
It has a unique modern lotus flower architectural structure with manicured gardens. Built-in 1986, The Lotus Temple attracts thousands of visitors of every religion worldwide.
There’s a stunning, calm Prayer Room that opens for meditators and prayers. If you want to know more about the Baha’i religion and its history, there’s an information center in The Lotus Temple. (things to do in India)
Address: Lotus Temple Rd, Bahapur, Shambhu Dayal Bagh, Kalkaji, New Delhi, Delhi 110019, India.
28. Qutab Minar
Do you like to see the tallest minaret made with bricks?
Qutab Minar is the tallest minaret made with bricks (height: 72.5 m). Located in Mehrauli Area, New Delhi, it is a victory tower in the Qutab Complex.
According to the historical facts, Qutab Complex was built by the first Muslim ruler, Qutab0-ud-din-Aibak, in 1193 after defeating the last Hindu Kingdom.
This whole Qutab Complex was declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. So, it is one of the most interesting structures to see in the historic city of Delhi. Its spiral staircase contains 379 steps.
And Qutab Complex has some other historical structures as well. Ex: Quwwat-Ul-Islam Mosque was also constructed along with the minaret.
If you are interested in historical architecture, religion, and Indian history, do not miss Qutab Minar. (things to do in India)
Address: Seth Sarai, Mehrauli, New Delhi, Delhi 110030, India.
29. Things to do in India: Lodhi Gardens
Lodi Gardens or Lodhi Gardens is an attractive park in New Delhi. And also, it offers you a perfect chance to escape from the hustle of Delhi city.
While watching some historical attractions, you can spend some quality time in Lodhi Gardens.
Especially, there are some beautiful historical tombs that are over 500 years old. Ex: Mohammed Shah’s Tomb (1450), Shish Gumbad, Sikandar Lodhi’s Tomb (1571), Bara Gambade, and other impressive architectural designs.
Therefore, it is a top tourist attraction in New Delhi. Locals and tourists use this park as a meeting place, leisure place, walking track, and playground for kids. (things to do in India)
Address: Lodhi Rd, Lodhi Gardens, Lodhi Estate, New Delhi, Delhi 110003, India.
30. Nek Chand Saini
Nek Chand was a famous Indian artist who created the famous Nek Chand Rock Garden in Chandigarh. It is an impressive sculpture garden located just 3 hours (by train) from New Delhi.
Actually, Nek Chand was not a sculptor. He was a government worker. But, he had a great artistic sense and eye. So, he started creating this sculpture garden when he had free time (secretly) with stones and discarded things. Finally, he showed his impressive garden made with corridors, pathways, pavilions, and statues to his superiors.
Obviously, they impressed and supported Nek Chand, offering more space (over 30 acres) and workers. Ultimately, his 30 years of secret effort received huge fame and appreciation.
Actually, Nek Chand is an admirable government worker that inspired many artistic government workers in India. So, it is totally worth visiting Nek Chand Saini on your Indian tour. (things to do in India)
Address: Rock Garden of Chandigarh, Sector No-1, Chandigarh, 160001, India.
31. Things to do in India: Shatrunjaya Hill
Shatrunjaya is a stunning set of hills located on the banks of the Shetrunji River. Located 164 feet above sea level, Shatrunjaya hills has a sacred temple complex that is very famous among Jain religious pilgrims.
Actually, it is one of the major pilgrimage sites of Jain religion followers. And the temple complex contains over 1000 individual temples made with attractive stone, marble, and bronze.
According to historical facts, the oldest temple was built in the 11th century. If you visit this temple, you’ll realize how difficult it was to build such a huge temple complex at such a height.
As there are 4000 steps to climb, it is better to start your journey early in the morning. Then, you can avoid the high heat. And also, do not forget to bring drinking water.
Once you reach the top, you’ll feel like you are in heaven. So, are you ready to get that heavenly feeling?
Address: Dungarpur, Gujarat 364270, United States.
32. The Root Bridges Cherrapunji
Visiting Meghalaya is one of the best things to do in India. It is a stunning dense forest state located in northeast India. So, if you are a nature lover and interested in experiencing the Indian rural lifestyle, Meghalaya is the ideal destination for you.
Actually, Meghalaya is famous as one of the top eco-friendly areas in the world. And its iconic bridge made with two tree roots enlargements is the most photographed spot in Meghalaya.
It calls the Root Bridges of Cherrapunji. And it is really an amazing creation made with horizontal roots of Ficus Elastica rubber trees. The young roots are also amazingly manipulated to grow towards the bridge to make it stronger.
This engineering wonder is very helpful to the local War Khasis tribe to cross the waterways. Do you like to see these wonderful bridges?
Well, you need to take around 2 hours hike to reach the Root Bridges of Cherrapunji. But, don’t worry; it is an exciting and freshly aired hike. So, surely add it to your India bucket list. (things to do in India)
Address: Nongriat, Tyrna, Cherrapunji, Meghalaya 793111, India.
33. Things to do in India: The Blue City
As mentioned earlier, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, is a city located in the Thar Desert of India. So, to avoid the high heat, people use Indigo color paints for their houses. So, when you visit the Mehrangarh Fort, you can easily reach this Blue City. Moreover, it offers very Instagrammable views.
The indigo and azure buildings are stretching over six miles along with the historic walls of the fort. In ancient days, the Mehrangarh fort was the safeguard of the Blue City.
Now the blue is the signature color of Jodhpur.
If you visit Blue City, you can buy colorful sarees, brilliant handmade textiles, and jewelry. And also, there is Umaid Bhawan Palace and the royal tombs Jaswant Thada.
So, visiting the Blue City is one of the best things to do in India for sure.
34. Temple of Galtaji
Located just seven miles away from Jaipur, the Temple of Galtaji is a large Hindu temple complex. Especially, it has seven sacred pools fed by a natural spring. So, many Hindu pilgrims visit Galtaji to bath sacred water.
The Temple of Galtaji’s main temple was built with pink stone, and there are some other sub-temples around it. Especially, Hanuman’s Temple is more famous as it is home to many playful monkeys.
Address: Jaipur, India.
35. Things to do in India: Rishikesh
Rishikesh is a city located in Uttarakhand, India. And as it is located in the Himalayan foothills and beside the Ganges River, Rishikesh considers India’s Adventure capital.
So, if you are looking for adventurous things to do in India, you must definitely visit Rishikesh. It offers you water rafting opportunities on the fast-flowing waters of the Ganges River. Especially, the Shivpuri River Rafting Point is very famous.
On the other hand, you can visit the Rajaji National Park, Luxman Jhula suspension bridge, temples, and many other attractive places in Rishikesh.
Have fun with these things to do in India
