9 Unique Travel Destinations of India and Their Specialties
Surrounded by beautiful culture and delicious food, India is unlike any other travel destinations. It is crazy and beautiful, all in one unique nation!
India requires tourists to have a travel visa, so ensure that you have a valid visa prior to travel. Regardless of where you visit, it is important to invest in travel insurance, both for your health and contents. Once you’ve checked off these very important tasks from your travel to-do list, you’re all set to organize the trip of a lifetime!
Traveling via train in India is a fun. You’re exposed to the natural beauty and terrains. The meandering movement of the train and the passing landscapes are captivating. However, traveling by AC coach is better than sleeper class. You also don’t have to worry about fresh food on the train. Online food services like Travelkhana offer the best food on the train from which you can choose and enjoy the delicacies in the comfort of your seat. All you have to do is enter your PNR number in the food ordering portal and it will show you the available stations and food options. Now food delivery service is not limited to doors only, food delivery on train is also a significant digital innovation in e-catering business. It is useful for travelers because they can order food for the trip.
Here are 9 unique destinations that you can include in your India trip
Delhi
Delhi is famous for the Red Fort. This beautiful red sandstone fort not only looks impressive but also has a deep history. You cannot miss Humayan’s Tomb, which is known for its intricate design. The tomb is the tomb of Humayun, the Mughal emperor of Delhi. Food in India, especially in Delhi, is something that cannot be missed. However, always make sure you eat clean and properly prepared foods. Parantas is a safe bet to avoid what tourists call Delhi Belly. Ask for them stuffed with your choice of toppings and you can enjoy the delicious authentic taste of India.
Agra
Just a 3-hour train ride from Delhi, Agra is next on the list. Agra is host to the beautiful, Taj Mahal. A definite sight to tick off your bucket list, make Agra a necessity for your India travels. While you’re at it, you should grab some of Agra’s famous petha. This is a soft candy made from ash gourd which is very popular in the region.
Kerala
Kerala, a state in southwestern India, is known for its lush green landscapes, pristine backwaters, and rich cultural heritage. It is a popular tourist destination for people from all over the world, offering a variety of attractions to suit all interests.
Popular travel points in Kerala:
- Alleppey: Alleppey, also known as Alappuzha, is known for its backwaters, which are a network of canals, lakes, and rivers. Visitors can take a houseboat cruise through the backwaters to experience the beauty of nature and the traditional way of life in Kerala.
- Munnar: Munnar is a hill station in Kerala known for its tea plantations, scenic beauty, and cool climate. Visitors can go on tea plantation tours, visit waterfalls, and hike to the top of the Anamudi Peak, the highest peak in South India.
- Thekkady: Thekkady is a wildlife sanctuary in Kerala known for its elephant population. Visitors can go on elephant rides, jeep safaris, and boat cruises to spot elephants and other wildlife.
- Kochi: Kochi is a coastal city in Kerala known for its history, culture, and beaches. Visitors can visit Fort Kochi, a historic Portuguese fort, Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace and the iconic Chinese fishing nets.
- Kovalam: Kovalam is a beach resort town in Kerala known for its beautiful beaches, Ayurveda resorts, and yoga centers. Visitors can relax on the beach, enjoy Ayurveda treatments, or take yoga classes.
Jaipur
Known as the Pink City, Jaipur, a city in Rajasthan, is a tourist destination known for its pink buildings. Enjoy the unique architecture and visit the many forts in the city, including Amer Fort and Jaigarh Fort. The Jantar Mantar monument is another attraction on the list. This monument is a collection of nineteen architectural astronomical instruments. It also features the world’s largest stone sundial. Save your shopping spree for this city as it is well-known for the beautiful fabrics and artworks sold in local markets. You’ll find hand-detailed fabrics, clothing and jewellery. If you have the means, why not splurge on a beautifully crafted Rajasthani-themed rug.
Ooty
Ooty, also known as Udhagamandalam, is a hill station in the Nilgiris Mountains of Tamil Nadu, India. It is a popular tourist destination known for its scenic beauty, cool climate, and tea plantations.
Ooty is home to a number of attractions, including:
- Ooty Lake: A picturesque lake where visitors can enjoy boating, paddle boating, and fishing.
- Doddabetta Peak: The highest peak in the Nilgiris, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
- Pykara Waterfalls: A beautiful waterfall located about 20 kilometers from Ooty town.
- Government Botanical Gardens: A sprawling garden with a variety of plants and flowers, including a rose garden and a fernery.
- Nilgiri Mountain Railway: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Nilgiri Mountain Railway is a steam train that runs between Mettupalayam and Ooty.
- Ooty is also a great place to shop for souvenirs, such as handmade chocolates, Nilgiri tea, and Toda embroidery. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of local cuisine, including dosas, idlis, and biryani.
- The best time to visit Ooty is during the summer months (April to June) when the weather is pleasant. However, Ooty can be enjoyed year-round, as the temperature never gets too hot or too cold.
Hampi
The ancient village of Hampi has some of the most amazing archaeological ruins you can find. The ruins of Hampi are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and are believed to be the ruins of the last Hindu empire. While in Hampi, try Saaru soup, made with coriander, cumin, tomatoes, pepper and tamarind.
Varanasi
Varanasi is known as the spiritual capital of India and is located on the banks of the Ganges River. Here you will find Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Dedicated to the Hindu god Lord Shiva, the golden exquisite temple is considered the holiest of all the temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. If you are interested in Hindu rituals, the Ghats are steps along the Ganges River that, because of their location, symbolize a deity in the Hindu religion. There are 84 ravines, each representing a different ritual. Take time to visit places that interest you.
Mumbai
India’s largest city, Mumbai is home to the Gateway of India, located on the waterfront. Hop on a ferry and head to the cave temples of Elephanta Island. Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, the caves are also dedicated to Lord Shiva. Do not forget to reserve a day to visit the caves, as the trip takes at least 5-6 hours.
Goa
Goa is located on the south coast of India. Enjoy a relaxing day in the sun on the white sandy beaches. Take time to visit the local animals at the Cotigao Nature Reserve or experience the dance and nightlife of Goa at one of the many beach clubs along the coast of the Arabian Sea.