Travel in India
A trip to India is often the expedition of a lifetime, and that's why you should be as prepared as possible to know what to visit and especially what wonders not to miss in this vast South Asian country, which sometimes remains little known to tourists.
An Asian Country Full of Surprises
Whether we're talking about a trip to India on the cheap, an organized tour of India, a journey to northern India, or a trek through southern India, you will be certain to get your money's worth in this tourist hot spot, because the country abounds with tourist treasures, wonders, and surprises for you to discover from the moment you set foot on this land, also known as the subcontinent. Welcome to the world's largest democracy!
Geographical Particularities of India
Bordered on all sides by the Indian Ocean, India is the second most populous country in the world after China. Having borders with China, Pakistan, Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, and Bangladesh, India is now considered an industrialized country, although its population is still struggling with social problems such as poverty and illiteracy.
It goes without saying that you'll find the seventh largest country in the world exotic, since there are many different cultures and religions, including Buddhism and Hinduism! To guide you in preparing your itinerary, here are some must-see destinations for your next trip to India.
New Delhi, the Capital
If you are thinking about taking a journey to northern India, New Delhi, the capital, is a good place to start. Divided into two parts, Old Delhi and New Delhi, the Indian capital will impress you with its many museums, restaurants, trendy shops and bars – including those on the famous Janpath Avenue, a very busy tourist street, its colourfully-clothed people, oxcarts, public markets, and bicycles crisscrossing crowded streets lined with bougainvillea.
If you want to feel the atmosphere and explore the culture of India, you will not be disappointed with the capital city, either Old Delhi or New Delhi.
As for accommodations, you have many options, as this area has an array of luxury hotels and budget hotels that allow you to experience the best of India while staying in the capital.
Mumbai, the City of Many Contrasts
Commercial and economic capital of India, Mumbai is the most populous Indian city. It is even said to be overcrowded and perhaps that explains its paradoxes.
At first glance, Mumbai strikes you because of its many tall skyscrapers and social disparities. Indeed, as soon as you set foot in Mumbai, you are struck by glaring contrasts between the very rich and very poor.
Thus, in the same district, the tallest modern skyscrapers overlook slums of acute poverty. Although disturbing, the situation is unique and worth seeing. It is not in all countries of the world that we can see such social disparities between rich and poor. Dharavi is one of the most striking and poor slums of Mumbai.
Bollywood, the Film Capital
The city of Mumbai is also said to be the world capital of cinema. The location of the film Slumdog Millionaire by director Danny Boyle and starring actress Freida Pinto, Mumbai produces more films per year than any other city in the world. It was this city that gave birth to the term Bollywood (a contraction of Bombay and Hollywood), which describes a particular genre of film, especially lengthy and shot in the Hindi language.
Things To Do in Mumbai
Despite the sometimes shocking cultural and social contrasts, Mumbai remains a city of incredible beauty that alone is worth a trip to India. The nightlife is lively; if you're the party type, you will feel right at home. Among the things not to miss in India, have a coffee in the Colaba neighbourhood and enjoy the sea along Marine Drive. As for the rest, that's for you to discover!
Other “Musts” in India
Besides the two most important cities of the country, India is full of places to discover. This is the case of the Goa region, which each year attracts millions of visitors who come to admire its lush vegetation, walk in its fine sand, and swim in its crystal-clear beaches.
Along the Indian coastline, the state of Goa offers some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world. You can admire many spectacular monuments, including the Shanta Durga Temple, the St. Catherine of Goa Cathedral, the Basilica of Bom Jesus, and many others.
In addition to its stunning beaches, Goa is also a popular region for its beautiful gardens and parks as well as its luxurious casinos (gambling enthusiasts will be enamoured by Goa). There are many casinos within its territory, as well as several luxury hotels to accommodate you and offer you a dream vacation in India.
The Kerela Beaches
Another paradise destination, you will leave Kerala with your best memories of your trip to India. With beautiful coastline 650 kilometres long, it goes without saying that beach lovers will get their money's worth in this region, located in the south of India.
Varkala Beach, one of the best in the region, is prized for its high cliffs and breathtaking sunsets, not to mention Cherai, reputed to be one of the most picturesque in the country, are a couple of dream resorts waiting for you to explore in Kerala, in southern India.
