The best things to do in India

From strolling around ancient forts to spotting exotic animals at an beautiful national parks, India is brimming with incredible things to do. Home to varied cultures, rich history and some of the most iconic sights on the planet, a holiday here is always an unforgettable experience. As the world's most populous country, India is synonymous with hustle and bustle and lively street scenes. However, there are plenty of opportunities to spend time relaxing in more serene surroundings, be it in the jungles of West Bengal or the beaches of Goa.  

So, where to start with such a wealth of things to do and see? Happily, India's attractions are diverse enough to offer something for everyone, so whether you plan to temple hop, take a trip back in time at a former palace, or sip the local produce at a tea plantation, your itinerary will be jam packed with unique experiences. Nature lovers, culture vultures, foodies and historical buffs... all are very well catered for here, and there are still some extraordinary hidden gems to discover, whatever your interests.  
So, without further ado, here is our list of the top 15 things to do in India. 

Art and Culture

Taj Mahal

Undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Agra, India’s famous Taj Mahal remains an essential addition to any holiday in the country's north. Best known for its stunning white marble appearance, the landmark is made even more poignant by the story behind its creation. Conceived by emperor Shah Jahan in 1631 as a magnificent mausoleum site for his beloved chief consort, Mumtaz Mahal, the structure took more than 15 years to build. In 1658, the emperor was overthrown by his own son, who had him imprisoned in nearby Agra Fort until his death eight years later.  

Of course, being one of the world's most famous sights, the Taj Mahal is often crowded with visitors. Secure your visit to the Taj Mahal by booked one of our escorted tours which includes entry, 

Amber Fort

For lovers of all things historical, the Amber Fort is one of the best things to do in India. Located in the town of Amer, which lies some seven miles from the famous 'Blue City' of Jaipur, the fort is an imposing complex built using red and yellow sandstone. It has roots dating all the way back to the 10th century, but the majority of the site we see today was constructed in the late 16th century by Mirza Raja Man Singh I.

Perched high on the top of a hill, it's a 10-minute climb to the fort, or a less strenuous ride by jeep. Once inside, you can explore its Royal Halls, courtyards, museums, and women's quarters, as well as the spectacular views from the ramparts. A light show takes place every evening recounting the history of the fort and Jaipur, best viewed from the Kesar Kyari garden on Maota Lake. 

Attari-Wagah Border Ceremony

If your India itinerary happens to take you to the city of Amritsar in northern India, you might like to travel the 32 kilometres to witness the famous Attari-Wagah border ceremony. This daily drill has taken place every afternoon since 1959 at the border between India and Pakistan. Nowadays, curious visitors from both sides come to see the spectacle play out, with the security forces of both countries marching perfectly in-sync in a parade before sharing a handshake and performing the flag lowering ritual. The participating soldiers must undergo specific training for the ceremony and also have to adhere to a strict moustache policy. The one-hour event also features dances and songs in a splendid display of national heritage and pride. It usually starts at 4pm, but do check the official websites before you travel. 

Cochin Carnival

If you're wondering where to go in India during the winter, Kerala makes a great choice. Not only is the weather very pleasant - usually in the mid-20s°C, but stick around until the end of December and you will also be able to experience the delightful Cochin Carnival. Held in Fort Kochi, a settlement in the city of Kochi (previously known as Cochin), this vibrant celebration is a true feast for the senses with colourful costumes, inviting aromatic street food and beautiful music.  

There are parades, traditional performances, races, markets and food festivals to enjoy as part of the celebration, which culminates in the burning of a giant puppet on the evening of 31st December in order to bid farewell to the past year and usher in the new one. During this time, the streets of Fort Kochi are brought to life with colourful decorations and twinkling lights, making this corner of south India even more vibrant. 

Nature

Ranthambore National Park

Undoubtedly one of the best travel spots in India for wildlife lovers, Ranthambore National Park is an expansive wildlife sanctuary in the country's northern state of Rajasthan. Once a royal hunting ground, the park is one of the best places to see the beautiful Indian tiger in its natural habitat, with a number of safari options to choose from. Ranthambore's dry agricultural landscape makes it easier to glimpse its animal residents, which also include hyenas, sloth bears, sambar deer and leopards. It also has a number of lakes, which are home to crocodiles as well as an array of water lilies.

At the centre of the park is Ranthambhore Fort, a 10th-century complex that houses temples, imposing gates and ornate architecture. It also offers remarkable views over the surrounding park owing to its hilltop setting. 

Cruise in Kerala

If you are holidaying in south India and fancy a serene afternoon, one of the best things to do in Kerala is enjoy a relaxing cruise on the state's backwaters. The best place to embark on a tour is Alleppey (also known as Alappuzha), where you can board a traditional houseboat to explore the labyrinth of waterways and canals that are fed from the Arabian Sea. Sit back and enjoy a gentle breeze as you pass rice fields, coconut groves and a series of man made islands.

Spot local birds and glimpse traditional village life on your journey through this scenic web of backwaters home to farmers and fishermen and dotted with temples. Often referred to as the Venice of the East, this enigmatic area is sure to enchant. 

Ooty Hill Station

Nestled in the spectacular Western Ghats mountain range, Udhagamandalam, or 'Ooty' as it is more commonly called, is a hilltop settlement providing a chance to unwind surrounded by spectacular natural scenery. Originally home to a series of indigenous groups, the area was ruled by the East India Company in the 18th century and became a resort town for wealthy Brits to escape the heat, as well as an important trade hub.

Today, Ooty is best known for its beautiful landscapes, encompassing lakes, mountains, gardens and waterfalls, and as a result is known as the 'Switzerland of India'. There are several sights to enjoy here, including a Gothic church, a Kew-inspired Botanical Gardens and a Toy Train that provides a ride through the enchanting Nilgiri district. However, perhaps the biggest draw is the chance to simply relax with a book and a cup of tea while soaking in the verdant surroundings. 

Religion

Golden Temple

There is certainly no shortage of religious sights in India, and one of the best things to do in Amritsar, India's centre of Sikhism, is a visit to the stunning Golden Temple. As its name suggests, the temple is covered in gold foil, giving it its striking and gleaming appearance. The temple is part of a wider complex known as the Harmandir Sahib, which is one of the holiest and most important sites in Sikhism.  
  
After visiting the temple, you may wish to walk over to the Jallianwala Bagh, a public garden with a memorial to the tragic massacre of 1919, when British troops opened fire on a group of unarmed Indians during the annual Vaisakhi celebrations. Also nearby is Rang Punjab, a popular restaurant in Amritsar serving traditional Punjab cuisine in a former British Raj building dating back to the mid-19th century. 

Kapaleeshwarar Temple 
 
Another of the most spectacular religious sites to visit in India is the Kapaleeshwarar Temple. Located in the traditional neighbourhood of Mylapore in Chennai, the temple is dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. It has roots dating back to the seventh century, but the structure that stands today is thought to have been constructed in 1566 after the Portuguese destroyed its predecessor. A fine example of Dravidian architecture, the temple is covered by rainbow coloured carvings of deities and celestial beings.
 
The legend behind the temple is also commemorated at the site - it is said that the god Shiva turned his wife Parvati into a peacock after she became distracted by a colourful bird while he was teaching her something. In order to reverse the curse, Parvati had to go to Earth and worship Shiva, which she did under a tree where the temple now stands. 
 

Thiksey Monastery 

Nestled in the hills of the Ladakh region of northern India, Thiksey Monastery is a temple complex featuring colourful art, peaceful prayer halls and a nunnery, as well as breathtaking views of the surrounding mountainous landscape. The complex dates back to the mid-15th century and is devoted to the practice of Tibetan Buddhism. Formed of multiple levels, some of the steps to the top can be quite steep. 

Here you can witness the resident monks performing their regular prayers, or marvel at the 15-metre Buddha statue, added in the 1970s. If you would like to extend your stay at the Buddhist monastery and take full advantage of the tranquil setting, the complex has a restaurant and hotel on site. 
 

Food  
 
Street Food in Delhi 
 
When it comes to culinary-related things to do in Delhi, India's foodie capital certainly doesn't disappoint hungry travellers, with options ranging from humble, authentic spots to the finest of fine dining. However, it is the city's street food scene that really impresses. The city's streets are lined with fragrant food stalls serving up flavourful delicacies day in day out, making for a street food culture unlike anywhere else in India.  

Diverse and delicious, you'll find everything from curries and kebabs to desserts and deep-fried snacks, with plenty of options for vegans and vegetarians. In terms of specific dishes, look out for momos - fried dumplings stuffed with meat or vegetables, papdi chaat - fried crackers with chickpeas, potato and yoghurt, and bhel puri - a mix of rice, nuts, vegetables and chutney. 

Want to have someone else put together your itinerary? Take a look at our carefully crafted guided tours of India for trips that include the most memorable highlights of the country, as well as its best hidden gems.