INTRODUCTION

Taj Mahal and the Other Wonders

Taj Mahal is the most dazzling mausoleum across the globe and stands as a testament of true love. Along with that, the country also boasts a number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This often includes Ajanta and Ellora Caves, Khajuraho Temples, Mahabalipuram and many more. The stunning display of the most remarkable architecture by the temples of South India is a delight to the sore eyes. Make your holidays in India memorable by taking a tour of these epic monuments that echo the legends only a few know about!

Culture that echoes innumerable myths

Do you know that India has the oldest culture on the Earth? 5000 years to be precise, seems too varied right? It is diverse where people speak different languages, follow diverse religions, eat completely different food and yet flourish under harmony. Thus, it is also considered as one of the most diverse nations in the world. The rich tapestry of the nation is also reflected in arts, music and dance forms.

Festivals that strengthen bonds and fills the air with joy!

Surprisingly, every season in India is celebrated with a unique festival that adds to the cultural charm. The joyous occasion is not only restricted to home but the entire community takes part in the festivities. Honestly, merrymaking is endless in India. The varied traditions and customs often intrigue travelers and leave them with an irresistible desire to know more about the region.

A nation of people with big hearts and appetites just as big

Maybe it's obvious that the cuisine in India is a buffet for the taste buds. The tongue tickling flavors, the explosion of spices, and the magic of sweets, it's all here in the motherland. From the chai tapris (tea shops), the street food stalls, to the high-end cafes and restaurants, wherever you go, the aroma follows you.

Moreover, Indian dishes are a combination of distinct recipes, each having their unique preparation style. The use of freshly picked herbs is extensive in all the 29 states. And hence, dominates widely in Mughlai cuisine, South Indian cuisine, Bengali food, Kashmiri food, to name a few.

Mountains are calling, and you must go!

If you are willing to soak up the sublime tranquility during your vacations in India, head to the charismatic hill stations. From north to south, India is blessed with more than twenty mountain ranges. The northern part is dominated by the great Himalayas and offers such grandeur that cannot be expressed in words.

Further, the hill stations in India offer a blissful retreat during the oppressive heat of the summer. Some of the most popular hill stations are Srinagar, Nainital, Mussoorie, Munnar, Ooty, Kodaikanal Darjeeling, and Shillong. The months between April and May are the best time to visit hill stations in India. Besides, trekking, touring the scenic tea plantations, shopping your heart out, and just spending some time in these paradise-like places rejuvenate the senses like no other.

A love affair between palm trees, ocean breeze and carefree you

Surrounded by azure water on all sides, India is gifted with some of the most wonderful beaches. The 7517 kilometers long stretch of coastline is lined by the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea. The golden sun rays on the shimmering sand and the cool breeze have a charm in itself. The sea beaches offer serenity and solace away from the chaos of life. Many of the beaches are untouched and less commercialized and enjoying here is a major highlight of the India vacation packages.

If Goa is the only beach destination that you know, then it's time to think again. There are a number of other destinations as well that you must explore to absorb the natural beauty. Visit Mahabalipuram which is a 5th-century heritage beach town. Explore the temple town along with Puri beach in Odisha. Swim in the clear blue water of Radhanagar Beach in Havelock Island. Immerse in history and culture at the exquisite beach town of Kannur in Kerala. Visit Gokarna, the popular temple town and now a yoga beach retreat in Karnataka.

Listen close, do you hear the great voices of the wild?

You can also indulge in enthralling wildlife safaris at some of the best national parks in India. This often includes Kaziranga National Park (Assam), Jim Corbett (Uttarakhand), Sasan-Gir Wildlife Sanctuary (Gujarat) and Bandhavgarh National Park (Madhya Pradesh) to name a few. Feel the thrill as you track tigers, ride elephants and spot one-horned rhinos. Besides, bird watching at the popular bird sanctuaries like Bharatpur, Kumarakom, and Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary offers unlimited fun.

Yoga and meditation – A blessing to mankind

When Yoga reaped in India, positivity followed its way. The history of this magical practice can be traced back to several thousand years. It all started with sacred teachings during the Indus civilization in the northern part of India. Yoga is considered the most popular exercise for relaxing the mind and body. It goes hand in hand with mediation. A traditional yoga retreat coupled with meditation will inspire and rejuvenate you deep within.

People seeking spiritual solace often embrace both of these for healthy living. It is an integral part of the Indian culture and was practiced during each historical period. Hence, if you are willing to be a part of India's culture, practice them at Kerala and feel the difference. For a better insight, make a trip to Rishikesh, the Yoga Capital of India a part of your India travel itinerary. The serene town hosts the International Yoga Festival every year which receives a huge footfall.

Ayurveda that heals your soul inside out

If India makes your run around its magnanimous attractions, it also heals you with Ayurveda. It is the traditional form of healing that has its roots in ancient India. According to the Vedas, Ayurveda is the gift to the human race by God-given some 5000 years back. It was communicated to the sages in the form of mediation and was passed on to the human physicians.

In the modern era, Kerala, Uttarakhand, Goa, Udaipur, Karnataka have the reputation of being the prime Ayurveda centers. The lush greenery does half the healing rest is done by the herbs fetched for preparing Ayurvedic concoctions. The therapies involve oil baths, periodic purifications, and rituals.

A little pampering never harmed anyone

India is known for its world-class hospitality. Having served the erstwhile Maharajas, the country has a forte in catering to the needs of the extra pampered souls. Thus, the country is dotted with an exclusive range of luxury hotels. A number of five-star hotels in India invite you to experience a wonderful amalgamation of contemporary amenities and Indian cordiality.

The art deco of these hotels add to the sheer opulence. To name a few, we have Umaid Bhawan Palace, Taj Falaknuma Palace, The Oberoi Vanyanilas, The Leela and so on. Standing amidst the picture-perfect lake is The Taj Lake Palace which presents a sight to behold.

A sojourn in the serenity of God's Own Country that knows no end*

Kerala backwaters are a unique blessing of nature. The hypnotizing backwaters are not just merge of water, but also blue skies with lush green paddy fields and an ecosystem so rare that you will forget that you are not in paradise. Cruising on the houseboats is a lifetime experience. Treat your eyes to the verdant greenery, inhale the palm scented air and let the calmness seep into the soul.

Beauty in nothingness

India is the home to numerous desert biomes that exhibit unique ecological communities. Indian deserts are not just about sand dunes, but also dead lands and valleys of cold mountains.

The great Thar Desert is a picture complete with sand dunes, colorful campsites, camels, and gypsy communities. Another beauty is the largest salt marshland located in Gujarat, The Rann of Kutch. The eerie white land is speckled with salt deposits and marshes that are habitat to avians of various kinds as well as rural communities. The annual Rann Utsav is a festive occasion to visit as in the winter nights the land reflects the moonlight and looks a beauty out of the world. Similarly, in Ladakh's Nubra Valley, amid the mighty Himalayas, Hunder is known for sand dunes, double-humped Bactrian Camels, campsite and beauty!

Dare to test your spirit

What is a holiday without some adventure? In India engage in adventure sports but also get. For the ultimate river rafting experience, head to Rishikesh. And while rafting in the sacred Ganga, savor the exquisite sight of the Himalayas. If trekking is your thing, India is gifted with numerous trekking trails which make it a safe haven for adrenaline junkies. For an exhilarating scuba diving and other water sport adventure, Andaman is the place for you.

Ladakh is adventure incarnate with adrenaline-boosting actions such as trekking, river rafting, mountaineering, cycling and many more. Where else can you boast of walking on a frozen river?

Retelling of tales of Kings and Queens

The vast history of India is witness to eras, royal dynasties, regal empires and the changing tides of time. The massive forts and palaces are the reflection of the artistic brilliance of the skilled craftsmen of the days gone by.

Take a walk down the pages of history. Golden Triangle circuit in India is the quickest introduction while for details, there is Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Goa and many other places.

From exciting India sightseeing tours to camping under the stars in the desert, there is a lot in store for you. Experiences here are far more meaningful than just pleasing your senses. India is a country of extreme contradictions, so be prepared to expect the unexpected when you are here.