A travel to India; the land of the maharajas, the scenery is there. India is a true cultural cradle where travelers are struck by the beauty of the landscapes, a fabulous blend of architectural gems, pleasant desert corners to discover on safari, and colorful markets. It's no wonder many filmmakers have chosen this country to shoot their films. But don't expect to find the Bollywood rhinestones and glitter there. A travel to India reserves a real human experience for those who take the time to appreciate its unique atmosphere.

1. What are the reasons to travel to India?

India is a country very contrasted between its magnificent temples and palaces, the colors of the landscapes, the spices, the architecture, the monster traffic jams, and the poverty, almost omnipresent. India, for example, has always travelers, such as backpackers. But once the apprehension of the travel to India has passed, everyone can easily find it.From the natural landscapes of the South to Rajasthan in the North, from the paradisiacal beaches of Goa to the temples and palaces located here and there, you will be spoiled for choice during your travel to India. You will have to come back more than once to discover the whole country as it is so extensive and its attractions are numerous.You will also be disoriented by the spicy Indian cuisine and local traditions, completely different from Western ones. India is the country from which you will return changed. Plan at least two or even three weeks minimum if you want to take full advantage of the tours. The country is large, and the means of transport do not allow to move quickly. The good news is that the cost of living in India is very low.

2. When to travel to India?

The best time to travel to India depends on the region you want to visit. If you want to visit the Northeast regions of India like Kashmir, it is better for you to travel between April and September, then the weather is better.Late May to October is an appropriate time to visit the city of Mumbai and the northwest regions. As for the southern regions such as Kerala, it is better to visit them between January and March.Generally, the period between November and February is the best for most travelers who prefer to travel to India during the cold and dry season, which is between November and March. The cities of Delhi, Agra, Varanasi, and Rajasthan are suitable at this time, while temperatures in Goa and central India remain appropriate as well.

3. What to do and visit when you travel to India?

3.1 Marvel at the fortresses and palaces of maharajahs

In Agra, the Taj Mahal, a symbol of India, is visited at dawn, to enjoy the beauty of the place still enveloped in the morning brunettes.But many other Indian palaces are worth seeing. With its dynasties and conquests, India has preserved many gems spread over its territory. Rajasthan is indeed the region of the palaces of the Maharajahs, City Palace on Lake Udaipur, Palace of the Winds in Jaipur, and Amber fort in the vicinity of the city, Mehrangarh fortress in Jaisalmer, Chittorgarh fort ...

3.2 Visit temples

Traditions in India intrude into all aspects of daily life, and religion plays a primary role. Hinduism is expressed through many temples in the country, the best known of which is in Madurai. The Delhi Grand Mosque, Jama Masjid, a place of worship for the Muslim community, the Golden Temple of Amritsar, the holiest shrine in the Sikh community. In Ladakh, the magnificent monasteries bear witness to Tibetan Buddhism. Do not miss the old churches of Goa and Fort Cochin.

3.3 Sailing on Indian rivers

From large sacred rivers to countless small rivers, there are many opportunities to explore green and aquatic India. For thousands of years, the major rivers such as the Ganges and the Yamunâ have been popular destinations serving several holy cities. In the northeast, the Brahmaputra, which descends from the Tibetan Himalayas, is also suitable for steamboat cruises. In Kerala, backwaters, canals in the middle of the jungle, can be discovered by houseboat or canoe-kayak.

3.4 Attend a festival

Among the pleasant and funniest activities to do when you travel to India, is to attend a festival. Many festivities in India take place throughout the year. In March, Holi, the festival of colors, announces spring. In the streets, everyone sprinkles colored powder. In the fall, Diwali, the Festival of Lights, celebrates the Hindu New Year. Houses shine with garlands and candles, fireworks and firecrackers burst into the sky. In Ladakh, several Buddhist festivals are held in the courtyard of the monasteries.

3.5 Explore national parks and animal reserves

There are no less than 80 parks in India and nearly 440 wildlife sanctuaries. Bandhavgarh National Park has the highest density of Bengal tigers and leopards, while Keoladeo Ghana National Park is one of the richest bird sanctuaries in the world.India has created these parks to save endangered species, like Gir National Park, the only Indian park that still houses lions.Generally paid, and can be discovered by jeep, boat or on foot.Related: The history of travel in determining the future

4. Cities to discover when you travel to India

4.1 Mumbai

Is one of the most beautiful tourist cities of India, and it is one of the most attractive regions in India, as its buildings and old neighborhoods reflect the splendor of Indian civilization.Mumbai has many attractions in India, most of which are of a historical nature and are well-known in the film and television industry, known as Bollywood.

  • India Gate

The India Gate is one of the most famous tourist places in Mumbai. It is one of the symbols of the famous and well-known Indian city of Mumbai, located to the south of the city, close to the National Museum of Modern Art and featuring sea views. The portal was built to commemorate the 90,000 Indian soldiers who died in the First World War within the British Indian Army.

4.2 New Delhi

The second largest city of India after the city of Bombay and is among the most important tourist areas in India, where this city is called the mini India.It is considered one of the most prosperous cities in the world in the fields of education, arts, entertainment, fashion, media, scientific research, and others. Tourism in India, New Delhi, has a great role in highlighting the importance of this city.

  • The Red Castle:

Any tourist visiting New Delhi must include in his agenda a visit to the Red Castle, which is one of the most important tourist places in Delhi and one of the most prominent historical monuments in India. The castle is located in the south of the capital, Delhi, and it is 33 meters above sea level. The castle is called Lal Quilla and was built in 1648.

4.3 Goa

Goa is India's smallest tourist city and one of the most beautiful cities. It is located in the western part of India in Konkan province and is characterized by its green nature throughout the year.Goa attracts many tourists from all over the world who come for tourism in India, as it contains the most beautiful beaches in addition to the green areas, palm trees, and a pleasant, gentle atmosphere.

  • Goa beaches:

Goa owns the most beautiful beaches. The wonderful Indian beaches of Goa extend to more than 75 miles, which are clean sandy beaches surrounded by wonderful palm trees in addition to beautiful landscapes, and one of the most famous beaches of Goa; Faqator Beach, which is considered one of the most romantic beaches in the world.4.4 Kashmir ValleyIs one of the tourist areas of India and one of the most beautiful tourist destinations in beautiful India, which attracts tourists throughout the year.Especially in the winter, when snow abounds around the Srinagar region, and Kashmir visitors are interested in visiting Gulmarg, as it is a place where winter games are held.

  • Srinagar city:

One of the most beautiful cities of Indian Kashmir, where it contains a wonderful large lake and beautiful green gardens punctuated by river winds, there are sailboats in the lake that provide tourists with a distinct tour around the lake.

Originally published on Live Positively.