India's greatness lies not only in its physical size on the world map. Within this country, there are so many different "worlds" that traveling through its various states and cities is undoubtedly a very enriching experience. From the banks of the Ganges to the Taj Mahal, through colorful Jaipur to the still waters of Kerala. One country, but many different realities and a whole new cultural and spiritual world awaiting us! Here, we share 10 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE TRAVELING TO INDIA.
10 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE TRAVELING TO INDIA
1 – A tour of India
Any of India's cities is a good starting point for a trip to this destination. But let's start with Varanasi, where sunrise with boat rides and sunset with a river ceremony are the most popular activities for travelers. Then, New Delhi with all its architecture and history, and then Agra, with its Taj Mahal as its highlight. The Golden Triangle isn't complete without Jaipur, and on the way, a visit to Jodhpur, with another stop in the intoxicating and sacred Pushkar—a must-see for all Hindus.
India's rich history is also felt in Ranakpur and Udaipur before heading south to Kerala. The slowdown is noticeable when we arrive in this very different India: although Cochin can be bustling, in Kumarakom we can relax and immerse ourselves in a more rural environment. The beaches and waters of Kerala, aboard a traditional houseboat (kettuvallam), are the perfect place to say goodbye on this itinerary. This is one of the 10 things to know before traveling to India.
2 – The famous Taj Mahal
It's arguably one of the most visited monuments in India and the world. Built in Agra, on the banks of the Yamuna River, the Taj Mahal is an ode to love. It's actually a mausoleum, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the 7 Wonders of the Modern World.
History tells us that it was built in the mid-17th century by order of Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his favorite wife, Mumtaz Mahal (translating as "The Jewel of the Palace"). She died giving birth to her 14th child, and the Taj Mahal was built around her tomb. It bears inscriptions from the Quran and, on its side, has two side mosques and four minarets. Its entire decoration is rich in detail, with semi-precious stones and marble.
3 – The Ganges and Varanasi
After visiting Varanasi, we began to see life and death differently. On the banks of the Ganges River, there are many celebrations: some of farewell, others of spiritual cleansing. You can witness both, on or off boats, for a very intimate experience. It couldn't be put more mildly: Varanasi is the city where many people die—or end their days—because it's believed that here, the soul (and karma) are cleansed and thus reincarnated in the next life. India's spirituality leaves no one indifferent, and that's why millions of visitors flock here to indulge in self-discovery and personal development on yoga and meditation retreats. A deep dive into the Self without forgetting the rest of the world. This is one of the 10 things to know before traveling to India.
4 – New Delhi
The capital, New Delhi, is India at its best. That calm, relaxing atmosphere... unbecoming of a city of skyscrapers and heavy traffic, but at the same time, it enchants us with its culture, colors, and smells... and there's so much to see! From India Gate to Old Delhi (the most historic and ancient part) and the Red Fort... discovering the Chandni Chowk area and its bustling markets.
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5 – Cities of Rajasthan
Rajasthan is the largest state in India by area, and its capital is Jaipur, bordering Pakistan. Besides Jaipur, its major cities include Ajmer, Bikaner, Jodhpur, and Kotta.
Jaipur is known as the “Pink City” due to its pink buildings and was once known as the “City of the Maharajas” – boasting an immense historical and architectural legacy.
The story goes that in 1876, the Maharaja ordered the city to be painted pink to welcome the Prince of Wales.
This is also where Holi, the colorful festival that heralds the beginning of spring (at the end of March), takes place. Since 2019, Jaipur has been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
6 – India’s Golden Triangle
India's so-called Golden Triangle is made up of three cities: the capital, Delhi, Jaipur (the capital of Rajasthan), and Agra, home to the famous Taj Mahal. Why is it called the Golden Triangle? Because together, these cities form the extremities of a triangle, and the name also comes from the gold mining in this area. It is undoubtedly one of India's most popular tourist destinations.
On the way between Agra and Jaipur, stop at the beautiful Fatehpur Sikri, which was the capital of the Mughal Empire.
7 – The natural beauty of Kerala
It's one of India's most beautiful and unspoiled regions. Located in the extreme southwest of the country, it's bathed by the Arabian Sea, boasting stunning beaches with virtually no one on them! Did you know that Kerala literally means "land of palm trees"?
In Kumarakom, we can relax and immerse ourselves in a more rural environment. Kerala's backwaters are explored aboard a traditional houseboat (kettuvallam), fully equipped with a kitchen, bedrooms, and bathrooms. The perfect way to explore this region!
8 – Avoid the Delhi Bellly call
Getting sick is never good... but when traveling, it's even worse! Delhi Belly is very common and refers to nothing less than gastrointestinal upset. It's usually caused by drinking non-bottled water, or eating something that's been washed or undercooked with tap water. So, there are five basic principles to avoid getting sick from vomiting or diarrhea. Some immune systems are more or less resistant... but you can take precautions with:
– Drink only bottled water
– Wash your hands thoroughly
– Only eat fruit that you can wash with bottled water or remove the skin from.
– Do not eat raw foods
– Only eat well-cooked food that is still hot (do not eat half-raw or cold foods that have been cooked for a long time)
– And watch out for the ice!
9 – Best time to visit India
The best time to visit India is between October and March, when temperatures are milder. Although the climate can vary from region to region, the best time is between January and March. In the far north, where it's colder (mountainous areas), it's best to visit between May and September. April is a good month to visit; temperatures are high, but there are also plenty of pools to cool off in!
In the center, the monsoon season—which should be avoided—starts in June and can last until October or November. The rainiest months are July and August.
In the south, the best time to visit is from mid-December to late March; the monsoons begin in June, and on the west coast, they can last until October. This is one of the 10 things to know before traveling to India.
10 – Gastronomy of India
For many, Indian food means spicy food, despite the wide variety. For those unfamiliar with spices (masala), it's truly an explosion of flavors, differing from region to region, although some dishes are identical.
Bread (naan) is part of every meal, just as rice and lentils (dhal) are the basis of many dishes and the side dishes can be varied, noting that many vegetables are eaten, in addition to meat (barca beef and lots of chicken) and fish in coastal areas.
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