India Travel Guide
One of the first travelling tips for India is “do not attempt it all”. With an area equivalent to most of western Europe, a single trip will barely scratch the surface. Spend a few days in the capital city of New Delhi ticking off the big-name sights*: Mughal-era Red Fort, Jama Masjid, Qutub Minar, and Humayun’s Tomb. Immerse yourself in the frenetic markets of Chandni Chowk before finding a moment of peace at the landscaped Lodhi Gardens. Then there’s Agra* for the Taj Mahal — best visited in the early morning or towards sunset to avoid the tourist hordes.
Take a break from the chaos of Indian cities and head into the jungles to spot the big cats
From here, proceed to Rajasthan to explore its colourful cities; the pink city of Jaipur* with its intricate Hawa Mahal, City Palace, and Amber Fort; the blue city of Jodhpur* with Mehrangarh Fort overlooking labyrinthine streets flanked by indigo house; and the golden city of Jaisalmer with its forts, havelis (mansions) and the sand dunes of the Thar Desert. Kolkata, in West Bengal, may not be on the usual tourist trail, but its languid pace, colonial architecture and superb food is worth a short detour.
Take a break from the chaos of Indian cities and head into the jungles to spot the big cats; tigers in Ranthambore* and Bandhavgarh national parks, leopards in Jawai and lions in Sasan Gir. Then, dive straight into hectic (and humid) Mumbai for eclectic art galleries in Kala Ghoda and trendy cafés and restaurants in Bandra. Make your way to Marine Drive to watch the sun set over the Arabian Sea and the Queen’s Necklace light up. No India travel guide is complete without a mention of Goa, India’s sunshine state known for its beaches, food, and relaxed vibe. Lately, it has become a hub for the craft drinks industry with some excellent beers, gins, and rums — not to mention the local cashew nut liquor, feni.
Further south, the intricately carved monuments dotted around the ancient village of Hampi in Karnataka evoke the grandeur of the medieval-era Vijayanagara Empire and make a dramatic picture against a backdrop of granite boulders. A brief halt at the hill stations of Kodagu (Coorg) or Chikmagalur will give you a taste of Indian coffee amid picturesque plantations.
South India’s major cities have their own charms — Bengaluru for its malls, restaurants, and craft breweries and Chennai for its multicoloured temples and the sandy Marina Beach along the Bay of Bengal. Wind up your trip in soul-soothing Kerala where palm-fringed beaches and shimmering backwaters are interspersed with ayurveda spas; further inland, wildlife reserves, spice plantations and tea estates glisten green, living up to the state’s moniker of God’s own country.
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