When I visited India for the first time I was overwhelmed by the sheer amount of things to see and experience, but those who were so mesmerized by it to make India their second home still find new things to do each day. There is no shortage of amazing experiences in India, and here is a list of some of the best things you can do while visiting the country.
1. Chand Baori Stepwell in Abhaneri
In the small village of Abhaneri you won’t expect to find a wonderful scenery. However, the small village harbors the 1200 years old Chand Baori well, which is a water tank made by the order of King Chanda in 8000AD. The well is 30 meters deep and has 3500 steps placed in an intricate design which creates an amazing view. When you follow the stairs and get inside the well, look up at the statues of the Hindu gods which line the outer side of the well.
2. Golden Temple in Amritsar
The Golden Temple in Amritsar is the place that never sleeps in India and it’s also among the holiest places in the country. The city itself was built near a bathing place with supposed miracle powers. The Golden Temple reflects the friendly spirit of the locals: foreigners and locals can sit in the same hall and have a short chat while eating a meal offered daily, for free, at the temple. Guests sit on the floor, enjoy their meal, then walk away when they are done to make room for other hundreds of guests. Outside the temple, you will see many people chatting and smiling to each other after eating together inside.
3. Kukki’s Cave Paintings in Bundi
Outside of Bundi, a man called Kukki discovered 1500 years old cave paintings and became famous. The man is not a trained archaeologist, but he’s probably more interesting than one, so you will never regret signing up for a tour with him. During the tour, you will see the cave paintings and some of the wildest parts of the area, including around Rajasthan. At the same time, he teaches his guests about the local history, leaving you with a memorable experience.
4. Akshardham and Gali Paranthe Wali in Delhi
While the Taj Mahal is the best-known temple in India, Akshardham is definitely the biggest and the most impressive. Located net to Yamuna river, the Akshardham is a cultural complex that includes an amazing temple. The temple was built from the carvings of multiple Indian craft-masters and provides the visitors with an amazing view. Inside, there is more to see, as the entire history of the Hinduism was told in details on the walls, pillars, and ceiling. After visiting Akshardham you will definitely be hungry, so it’s time to have a walk along Gali Paranthe Wali, a food lane in the middle of the Delhi. Here you will find hundreds of locals who sell the same dish – parathas, but make it in their own, unique styles. When in Delhi, you must walk the walk of Gali Paranthe Wali!
5. Palolem beach in Goa
Goa is India’s smallest state, but it offers big opportunities, especially when it comes to beaches. Palolem beach is one of Goa’s best places to enjoy the Indian beach experience. The area is clean and relaxed, so you can enjoy swimming or sun tanning without being disturbed by hundreds of other tourists. You will find expats, couples and locals on the beach, so you can make friends while enjoying the secluded beaches and the tasty food.
6. Ranakpur Jain Temple in Ranakpur
If you wander off the route that connects Jodhpur and Udairpur you will find a nice and quiet place called Ranakpur. The small village houses Ranakpur Jain temple, an amazing 15th-century building that was abandoned and resurrected, now being one of the most important Jain temples in the world. Each of the 1400 pillars is unique, offering an amazing view when you walk around the building. The entire area is very peaceful, so Ranakpur is the perfect place to reconnect with yourself. This is a tiny piece of India, but I believe it’s just enough to make you visit India. Then you will return again and again! Featured photo credit: Saksham Gangwar via unsplash.com
