India is a mystical and diverse land that offers a unique blend of spirituality, contrasting experiences, vibrant yoga and meditation practices, and spicy cuisine. Its cultural richness is unmatched, and while it’s known for elephants and a variety of other attractions, India cannot be defined by just a few traits—it’s much more than that. Traveling in India exposes you to an array of experiences, feelings, and sights that are both astonishing and soul-stirring. The country’s diversity makes it challenging to encapsulate its essence in simple terms.
When visiting India, the stark poverty might shock and humble you. Observing various religious practices and ceremonies can be truly enlightening. The country’s natural beauty—including stunning caves, towering mountains, lush valleys, dense forests, expansive deserts, vibrant jungles, and pristine beaches—will leave you awestruck. However, be prepared for occasional annoyances, such as persistent vendors trying to sell you things you don’t need.
Given India’s vastness, covering every tourist attraction would be impossible, so this article will focus specifically on North India, highlighting some of its most incredible destinations.
The Taj Mahal in Agra, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, is arguably the most famous site in India. While some tourists debate whether its popularity has led to it being overrated, it is undeniably a must-see. However, Agra itself isn’t the most pleasant city to explore due to its chaotic and dirty environment. A great way to visit is by catching an early train to see the Taj Mahal at sunrise, followed by a trip to the impressive Red Fort before heading back to Delhi. Make sure to book train tickets in advance, as they sell out quickly, or consider arranging a day trip through a reputable agency.
Amritsar, located in Punjab near the Pakistan border, is renowned for its Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib), an important Sikh shrine that is particularly breathtaking at sunrise. Another notable temple is the Silver Temple (Shree Durgiana Tirath), a Hindu temple with architecture reminiscent of the Golden Temple. Tourists also flock to witness the Wagah-Attari border-closing ceremony, a daily event that is both fascinating and somewhat bizarre, featuring an elaborate show by Indian and Pakistani officials culminating with a ceremonial lowering of the flags.
Varanasi, the holiest city in India and a major Hindu pilgrimage site, is situated on the banks of the Ganges River. Known for its iconic river ghats and continuous religious ceremonies, Varanasi also features a cremation ghat where Hindus believe scattering ashes in the Ganges can help souls escape the cycle of rebirth. A sunrise boat tour on the Ganges offers stunning morning views and a glimpse into the city’s waking rituals, while an evening tour allows you to witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony from the comfort of the boat.
Jaisalmer, a small town in Rajasthan in the heart of the Thar Desert, enchants visitors with its unique architecture and fairy-tale setting. Many travelers visit Jaisalmer for the desert safaris, which typically include jeep tours followed by camel rides to the sand dunes. It’s important to set realistic expectations, as the Thar Desert is predominantly a sandy region with sparse vegetation and occasional sand dunes.
Delhi, encompassing several districts, boasts both the modern New Delhi and the historic Old Delhi. While Old Delhi is bustling and chaotic, it offers a window into the city’s past. Visitors can explore traditional spice markets and historic religious sites, such as Sri Digambar Jain Lal Mandir and Jama Masjid, one of India’s largest mosques.
Haridwar and Rishikesh, located in Uttarakhand, are close to each other, making them easy to explore together. Haridwar is an ancient city and a significant pilgrimage site where the Ganga Aarti ceremony is performed. Rishikesh, known as the World Capital of Yoga, is perfect for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers, offering activities like river rafting, bungee jumping, mountain biking, and trekking.
Ladakh, a region in Jammu and Kashmir, is renowned for its ethereal beauty and dramatic landscapes. Visitors can marvel at high-altitude lakes like Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri, and explore Leh, the largest town in the region, which is home to the ancient Leh Palace and several Buddhist monasteries. Ladakh also offers a variety of hiking routes suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers.
For those planning a trip to India for less than 60 days, applying for an e-Visa is recommended. Although the online application process is detailed, it is straightforward. The official e-visa system is the only platform to use, with fees ranging from $25 to $100, depending on nationality. Applicants need to provide a digital passport copy, a photo, and detailed travel plans, including accommodation and arrival dates. While the e-Visa is usually processed within a few days, applying a couple of weeks in advance is wise. The e-Visa allows entry through 28 international airports and five seaports. For stays longer than 60 days, a 6-month tourist visa can be obtained through an Indian embassy.