India, which is a land where old myths rub elbows with contemporary life, whispers to the ears of the tourists with its rich tapestry of history, culture, and fascinating sceneries. Every place seems to murmur secrets of its glorious past, patiently waiting to be uncovered. undefined
Delhi: Where Empires Collide
Commence in Delhi, a mini-India for you. Feel like being amazed by the Red Fort, the fortress of Mughal emperors, listening to the echoes of their enunciations within its towering walls. Get lost into the winding alleys of Chandni Chowk, which is a centuries old market place, where the intoxicating smell of spices intertwines with the cries of the vendors. A visit to Raj Ghat pays respect to Mahatma Gandhi, whose non-violent spirit continues to impact, and the Changing of The Guard ceremony at the magnificent Rashtrapati Bhavan demonstrates contemporary India’s majesticness.
Agra: Gestures of Eternal Love
Every journey to India fails to achieve its completion without seeing the Taj Mahal, an epitaph in white marble written with Shah Jahan’s unbroken longing for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. This architectural marvel is a palate of time, it’s intricate carvings and delicate inlay work leaving you speechless. Delve into the Agra Fort nearby, a Mughal signature design, a fort where the sandstone tells tales of both the battles won and the court games.
Jaipur: Where Royalty Is Met with the Rajasthani Style.
Get submerged in the grandeur of the Pink City of Jaipur, awashed with a warm sympathetic color. Take a guided elephant ride to Amber Fort, a magnificent sentinel which stands atop a rugged hill, and imagine the splendid royal processions that would have passed through its courtyards. The Hawa Mahal, a beautiful structure with numerous windows, creates the image of the women wearing the veils watching the lively streets below. The City Palace that is the perfect example of Mughal and Rajput architecture is a must-see. And, stroll around the bustling and colorful markets where you can find beautiful textiles and handmade souvenirs.
Hampi: Ruins which Yells on its Own
Go back to the glorious days of Vijayanagara Empire at Hampi, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where history comes out of the pages. Wander amongst the sprawling ruins of temples, palaces, and marketplaces, with each stone carrying tales from an ancient era. Mesmerize at the delicate carvings on the Vittala temple chariot, an epitome of stone craftsmanship, and ascend the royal Hazara Rama temple complex, the epitome of the golden glow of the setting sun which offers a panoramic view of the ruins.
Kerala: Where the Elbow Meets the Peace
Spend time winding down on the serene canals of Kerala, a place where jade waters flow through thick forests. Float on an ancient houseboat while taking in the tranquility of palm trees whispering in the wind and picturesque villages. Discover the bustling spice markets of Kochi, scented with the heavy spices of cardamom, cloves, and pepper. Discover the wealthy history of Fort Kochi, a Portuguese enclave decorated with buildings of the colonial period. Watch the magical Kathakali dance performances, a display of the rich traditions of Kerala, where the actors in colorful costumes and elaborate headgear comic acts.
Varanasi: A City with a Spiritual Identity.
Experience the heart-warming activities of Varanasi, which is the holy city of Hinduism. See the sunrise ceremony on the Ganges which attracts tens of thousands to get the first rays of light and paint the water gold in it. Wander the narrow alley ways, laden with ancient temples each a symbol of years of reverence. View the magical setting of the evening aarti, a beautiful ceremony with chanting and fire that rocks the air with a magical and otherworldly energy. Be bewitched by the burnt pyres on the ghats – an example of continuity as this has been a witness to the cycle of life and death over the past millennia.
Madhya Pradesh: At the Intersection of Empires and Caves
Delve into the core of India, to Madhya Pradesh, a region where the echoes of old empires and the voices of spirituality are seamlessly intertwined. Let yourself be intimidated by The Khajuraho Group of Monuments, a UNESCO World Heritage Site adorned with detailed carvings presenting the stories of love, valor, and religious devotion. Be amazed at the size of the Kandariya Mahadeva Temple which is the Chandela architecture masterpiece, and visualize the skillful craftsmen who carved those elaborate details. Tread into the labyrinths of Ajanta and Ellora caves where Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain Gods emerge from the walls, narrating spells of faith and fine art, as timeless as they are. See the ancient city of Sanchi, where the grand Sanchi Stupa, the oldest Buddhist monument in India, give an evidence of local spiritual wealth.
Andaman and Nicobar Islands: Eden Unearthed
Take a break to the unspoilt heaven of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, where the turquoise waters kiss the white sand beaches and lush green forests are filled with rare species of animals. Explore the dynamic heritage of Port Blair as it presents to you the colonial-era structures such as the Cellular Jail in all its starkness and picturesqueness. Visit the Jarawa and Onge indigenous tribes` tribal villages, and learn about their culture and their way of life that is in harmony with nature. Plunge into the sparkling blue waters and be amazed by the richness and diversity of marine life, from coral reefs brimming with vivid fishes to large manta rays seemingly floating in the waters. Discover your own paradise in this undisturbed archipelago where history is heard through palm leaves rustling and where the largest ocean has it’s own mysterious secrets.
These are only some among the countless historical treasures to be unearthed in India. Therefore, let your curiosity take you on a wonderful journey of discovery and where the past speaks in every nook and cranny. From the golden dunes of Rajasthan which are the home to several magnificent forts that were once on the old trade routes, to the green hills of Munnar, where tea plantations cover the whole landscape, every region has its own mix of the past and present. Spend time admiring the architectural wonders of Khajuraho, immerse yourself in the Buddhist sites in Sarnath and Bodh Gaya, or get lost in the colonial touch of Pondicherry and Goa.
So, get ready, liberate your inner wanderer and dive into the ultimate India adventure. Recall, its remarkable history is as multi-hued and engaging as the landscape which has so many tales to tell, waiting to be found by enquiring minds and warmed hearts.
