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Touring the Taj Mahal in India

Best Things to Do in India

Iconic Attractions & Hidden Gem Travel Experiences

India

India is often described as being an assault on the senses -- an explosion of sights, sounds and smells that can be exotic, spicy, colorful, chaotic and overwhelming, all at the same time. Whether exploring Mumbai or old Delhi, relaxing on a canal boat in Kerala, riding a mountain train to Darjeeling, waking up for an early morning bathing ritual in Varanasi, attending the Camel Fair in Pushkar, or marveling at the sheer perfection of the Taj Mahal in Agra, India is an experience not to be missed,

Top India Experiences

Relaxing in Kerala’s floating hotels known as Kettuvallams.

Basking in Goa’s beautiful Palolem beach, and sipping in fresh coconut water to keep you hydrated.

Visiting Jaisalmer, a desert town in Rajasthan.

Visiting Varanasi, a city in Uttar Pardesh, which consist of more than 2000 temples and attracts pilgrims and devotees of Hindu, Buddhists and Jains.

Enjoying a Ganges River cruise  

Seeing Taj Mahal, an epitome built by Shah Jahan, a Mughal emperor for his wife.

For wildlife lovers, a visit to Kanha National Park is must, as it is one of the few best places to see a tiger in India.

Visit to Harmandir Sahib, a popular Sikhs temple also known as the Golden Temple.

Riding a camel into the Thar desert, and sleeping beneath the stars.

Meditating in a temple in Dharmasala, the home of the Dalai Lama.

Hiking through the magnificent Valley of the Flowers.

Zig-zagging through mountains while paragliding in the Himalayas.

Staying with a local Himalayan family in a remote village.

Bouncing along chaotic city streets and dodging other vehicles (and cows) in a tuk-tuk.

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Things to do in India - Expert’s guide

1. Taj Mahal

Taj Mahal at sunset in India

Perhaps India’s most famous landmark, the Taj Mahal is a must-see for any traveler to India. The white-marble palace is one of the most recognized sights in the world and is universally admired for its beauty and cultural significance. Experts suggest that the Taj Mahal may not be structurally sound and could collapse in the next decade, so be sure to visit if you get the chance! 

2. Agra Fort

Red exterior of Agra fort in India

Agra Fort was built in the 16th century as a military structure, and later became a palace for the emperor. The fort is worth visiting for its history and architecture. Inside, visitors can see Shah Jahan’s famous Peacock Throne, as well as opulent ceilings, fountains, and chandeliers. 

3. Himalayas

Path and hiking trail in the Himalayan Mountains in India

The Himalayas are the highest mountain range in the world. Visitors to the range can hike, snowshoe, and enjoy the breathtaking views. Experienced hikers may even elect to hike the 80 miles to Mt. Everest base camp. If you’re not up for the trek, Mt. Everest and other Himalayan giants can be seen from Kala Patthar in Nepal

4. Varanasi

Varanasi on the bank of the Ganges in India

The city of Varanasi is regarded as the spiritual capital of India. It is one of the world’s oldest continuously habited cities, and has great significance to Hinduism and Indian culture.

Varanasi is a pilgrimage site, where people travel to wash off their sins in the waters of the Ganges. Visitors can view the charming city from a boat on the river or stroll the colorful streets while admiring the rituals and spirituality of the city. 

5. Delhi

Tomb in the city of Delhi India capital

Delhi is India’s capital territory consisting of Old Delhi, an ancient walled city built by the Mughal dynasty, and New Delhi, the modern capital city. Old Delhi is crowded, chaotic, and rich with Indian history. New Delhi is the place to go for nightlife, hotels, and restaurants. 

6. Kerala’s floating hotels

Floating houseboats in Kerala India

Kerala is known for its stretches of coastline along the Arabian Sea. The beaches here are serene and tropical and home to a wide variety of wildlife and sealife. Kerala boasts a large amount of houseboats and “floatels” (floating hotels)-- often complete with pools, spas, and restaurants. 

7. Kanha National Park

Tigers on road in Kanha national park India

Also known as Kanha Tiger Reserve, Kanha National Park is home to a significant population of endangered Bengal tigers. Visitors can take a safari through the park to see the tigers and other wildlife, or visit the Kanha Museum to learn about the natural history of India.

8. Jaipur

Dusk in Jaipur India

Jaipur is a major city with historical and cultural significance. Visitors to Jaipur can see the majestic Amber Palace, stroll around the famous markets, or visit the Jantar Mantar observatory. The city also boasts a number of museums and art galleries.

9. Ganges River

Boys playing at dusk in the Ganges River India

A Ganges River cruise is a great way to see the main sights of India. Aboard a boat, visitors can see major cities such as New Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur, as well as parts of rural India. The Ganges River is considered sacred in Indian culture, so many significant destinations in India are located along its shores.

10. Mumbai

Mumbai gate in India

Mumbai, formerly Bombay, is a major city in southwestern India. Mumbai is India’s financial epicenter and home to the prolific film industry. The energy of the city may feel overwhelming, with its dense population, crowded streets, and worsening pollution, but it also boasts some of the best nightlife and restaurants in the country.

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India Tours Reviews & Ratings

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Trusted Customer
·
2024-03-17
Written on
India's Golden Triangle
Fantastic introduction to an amazing country. Wonderful food, historical & social sites & local interactions. Great leader and friendly small group.<br />Highlight Taj Mahal but so many other great experiences too. Only negative (loss of star) was the disgusting pre-tour/first night hotel, hope Explore decides not to use it in the future
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Trusted Customer
·
2024-03-16
Written on
India's Golden Triangle
Deborah
·
2024-03-15
Written on
Highlights of Northern Indian
This was the trip of a lifetime.! A fabulous experience all round with a very knowledgeable local guide and lovely travelling companions.There are many aspects of this trip that I shall never forget -such as the 1st glimpse of the Taj Majal and the boat trip in Varanassi-also the experience of riding a camel into Pushkar camel fair and us being so lucky to see a Leopard and Tigers at Ranthambore..The overnight sleeper trains were a new experience. Such a well planned itinerary in the safe hands of Raj (Rajesh Verma)our brilliant guide.
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Trusted Customer
·
2024-03-15
Written on
Walking in Kerala by Explore!
On Foot in Kerala
The trip was extremely enjoyable in a beautiful setting.
Some treks were longer than published due to a closed campsite and we were moved on a third night of camping to a different site in a school complex where the facilities were not as good as the first site (Silent Valley). We could not see any benefit in the move.
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Joanna
·
2024-03-11
Written on
Highlights of Southern India
Palace at Mysore and a particularly good guide there
Trusted Customer
·
2024-03-09
Written on
Colors of Rajasthan with Mumbai
The tour gave a honest and helpful view and experience of India.

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