India is a destination like no other. Some people go there for the beauty of the landscapes, especially the Himalayan mountains or the beautiful beaches of Goa, others to discover the great traditions and customs
India is a destination like no other. Some people go there for the beauty of the landscapes, especially the Himalayan mountains or the beautiful beaches of Goa, others to discover the great traditions and customs of this immense country, but most travelers who go to India are looking for a real change of scenery, a cultural shock that can only be experienced there.
Rampant cities, festive traditions, spicy cuisine, extreme climate, poverty, beautiful landscapes, spirituality, fervor, modernity, religious and ethnic mix, and biodiversity. India is all this and more. If you are not yet convinced
1. To discover the incredible Ganges region
The Ganges is one of the longest rivers in the world. It takes its source in the Gangotri glacier, located at more than 6000 m of altitude in the Himalayas. It is a sacred symbol for the Hindus for whom the water of the Ganges has the virtue of washing away sins and freeing the souls of the deceased. The whole Ganges region is home to a large number of sacred sites such as the cities of Haridwâr or Vârânasî, where you can attend impressive rituals.
2. To admire the architectural wealth of India
Many citadels were built on the top of the hills, and they were intended to protect the inhabitants from possible attacks. The Mehrangarh Fort is located in Jodhpur, and the Junagarh Fort is magnificent and worth a visit.
The most famous monument of the country remains the Taj Mahal, this superb funeral monument located in the heart of the city of Agra. It was built by the emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century in memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal. This mausoleum is considered the most essential symbol of Indo-Muslim architecture. It has been registered with the world heritage of UNESCO since 1983.
The Taj Mahal. A monument is almost as beautiful as the love story behind its construction. In the 17th century, an emperor and great lover of the arts had several wives, but he was particularly enamored of one named Mumtaz Mahal.
The young woman died while giving birth to her 14th child and her husband was in mourning for two long years. Out of love for her, he designed a temple where she would be buried: the Taj Mahal. It took 12 years to build this white marble palace, now considered one of the most beautiful in the world. A must for travelers who visit India
3. To discover its gastronomic wealth
Vegetarians will be delighted: India is known for its seafood specialties potato and rice dishes, all served with fragrant spices. This fantastic mix of different cultures and regional traditions serves up many aromatic delights rich in Mughal, European, and Arabic influences. But meat lovers be assured: the famous tandooris, these pieces of meat or fish that have been macerated in a spicy yogurt mixture. The dishes are cooked in a special oven: the tandoor.
4. You will undoubtedly be disoriented (but in a good way)
India is a country still considered “underdeveloped,” and a culture shock is to be expected for less experienced travelers. Of course, the way of life is different from what we know in the West, and the cities can seem dirty with garbage lying around in the streets.
Some cities are well industrialized and rather polluted, as is the case for Delhi, while elsewhere, poverty is quite visible, with the presence of slums. India is a bit chaotic because of its large population: it is impossible to have a personal bubble, and the traffic on the roads is spectacular.
India is an excellent choice for a traveler looking for a complete change of scenery. The important thing to remember is that diversity makes our world beautiful and not to be quick to judge the population. Yes, some behaviors can be shocking, but let’s not forget that it is a different culture, and it is no less good for that.
5. There is something for everyone
India offers a multitude of opportunities for all travelers of this world. It can satisfy tourists eager for culture with its numerous temples, breathtaking architecture, and monuments, which are among the wonders of the world.
India also offers a spiritual type of trip with the Gods who are represented in the four corners of the country by means of statues and numerous rituals. It is a country rich in history and magnificent landscapes, and for the more athletic, many hiking trails in the mountains are offered by experienced guides.
Even animal lovers can enjoy interacting with monkeys, elephants, and others. However, it is important to be cautious and do your research not to encourage the abuse of these animals. With my travel partners, we had the opportunity to go on a private hike with the hostel owner where we were staying.
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