Today’s keyposting blog takes us to India, a diverse destination that offers everything from wildlife safaris and mountain scenery to unspoilt beaches and lush forests. Rich in cultural heritage and bursting with exotic influences, India has activities and attractions to tempt every visitor.
Touch down in India, the land of extremes, and enjoy the sights, sounds and flavours of this unique and exciting country.
Taj Mahal, Agra
Open sunrise to sunset (closed Fridays). Tickets can be purchased from the Western and Eastern Gates from sunrise to sunset, and from the Southern Gate 8am – 5pm. Entry fee: Rs 750.
India’s most famous landmark is just as stunning as you imagine. The white-domed marble mausoleum was built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved third wife, Mumtaz Mahal. Work began on the UNESCO World Heritage site in 1632 and it took until 1653 to complete the build. Thousands of craftsmen and artisans took part in the process. A legend exists that Shah Jahan had the hands cut off the workers once building was complete to prevent them from creating another such masterpiece, although this is widely regarded as a myth. The complex includes a mosque, large landscaped gardens and a prayer house.
Red Fort, Delhi
- Open Tuesday to Sunday from sunrise to sunset. Sound and light show 6pm. Entry fee: Rs 250. Sound and light show entry: Rs 80.
In its day, the Red Fort was an icon of Mughal power. The structure was protected by walls that ran 2km in length and varied in height up to 33m. A deep moat allowed access to the fort via a creaky, wooden drawbridge, although the water has long since dried up. Built in 1648, the fort now remains a red sandstone carcass that hints at its former glory. Inside the compound is a range of buildings including the Drum House, the Hall of Public Audience and the Pearl Mosque.
A light and sound show takes place in the evenings to recreate the historical importance of the fort.
The Pink City, Jaipur
Founded in 1727, the busy city of Jaipur is known as the Pink City of India. The World Heritage site was established in 1727 as India’s first planned city. There are plenty of sights to explore including fortresses, majestic palaces, landscaped gardens and temples along with the eye-catching blush architecture.
Backwaters of Kerala
Boating may not be the first thing that springs to mind when you think of India, but spending a day or two on board a houseboat in Kerala is well worth the effort. Travel the backwaters in a traditional boat and take in the views of the rural villages and paddy fields as you drift by and enjoy some peace and tranquillity.
Goa’s beaches
If city life gets too much, head to Goa for some fun on the beach. The dazzling white sand, turquoise water and swaying palm trees attract two million visitors a year. If lazing around isn’t your thing, you can stay busy with the excellent water sports on offer, take riverside strolls, visit the old cathedrals or go bird watching.
Elephanta Caves, near Mumbai
The caves are open Tuesday to Sunday from 9am to 5.30pm. Tickets for the deluxe boat: Rs 150 for adults. (You pay more to have access to the upper deck.) Entry to the caves: Rs 250.
Another of India’s UNESCO World Heritage sites. The Elephanta Caves are located off Mumbai’s mainland shore and can easily be visited on a day trip from the city. The boat takes an hour each way and it’s worth investing in the deluxe boat trip which costs a little more. The impressive cave-temples, thought to date back to between AD 450 and 750, are carved into the rock of the island. The stone sculptures within are some of the best examples of carvings in India.
Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh
Bandhavgarh has the highest density of Bengal tigers in the world, so it’s a great spot to go on safari. You can also see deer, leopards, bears, elephants, gibbons and lots of birds and insects in the park. It’s best accessed as part of a safari group and it’s advisable to book ahead due to restrictions placed on the number of tourists allowed in the core tiger sanctuaries.
Qutb Minar, Delhi
- Open daily 10am – 5pm. Entry fee Rs 250.
This cylindrical shaped tower is a masterpiece of Mughal architecture. The red sandstone structure tapers from 2.75m in diameter at its peak to 14.32m at its base, and it towers over the surrounding area at 72.5m high. The region is rich in archaeological sites, including the beautiful Alai-Darwaza Gate and two mosques. This is one of India’s most visited monuments, so be sure to arrive early before the crowds descend.
Hiking in the Himalayas
There are numerous trails to suit beginners or experienced hikers alike. Not only will hiking allow you to feast your eyes on the snow-dusted mountain scenery but it’s also a great opportunity for cultural interaction. Discover rural villages where life has remained the same for decades, visit ancient Buddhist monasteries and sacred temples, see the wildlife and the rich flora and fauna and enjoy the fresh mountain air. If you’re new to hiking, it’s easy to pick up a trekking tour group or hire a guide in India.
Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur
- Open Sunday to Saturday from 9am to 5pm. Entry fee Mehrangarh Museum: Rs 400, Jaswant Thada: Rs 30.
The imposing red sandstone Mehrangarh Fort stands proudly on a cliff above the city. Referred to as ‘the work of giants’ by Rudyard Kipling. It is one of the largest and best-preserved forts in India today. Inside the fort are several palaces decked with intricate carvings and beautiful courtyards. The museum is well-stocked to give you a flavour of the last five centuries.
- Also Read: Top 10 Places To Visit In Pondicherry
