Amazing and mysterious India has long attracted tourists from all over the world. Delightful nature, deep culture, exoticism, traditions and customs of the local population, as well as many attractions will not leave indifferent many admirers of Asian flavor.
Holidays in India can be for every taste: sightseeing, beach and even healing.
Tours to India
Weather
The best time to plan your trip is from October to April. The weather during this period is simply heavenly: the sky is clear and cloudless, the days are warm, but not hot, and the sea is calm. IN holiday season water and air warm up to +30 degrees. Even on the coldest days, the temperature does not drop below +19 degrees.
Traditions
When going on a trip, tourists should clearly understand that the country to which they are going is deeply religious, with strict customs and traditions. You should not violate them, as this can lead to undesirable consequences. Here are some of the rules to follow:
- Married women wear saris, the national women's dress. A tourist should not wear such an outfit, otherwise it may cause ridicule or displeased remarks from the Indians.
- Women should not wear short skirts, a low-cut dress or tight-fitting clothing in public.
- Hugging and kissing in public places is prohibited.
- Objects of worship must be treated with respect.
- Finger pointing is considered bad taste.
- In dealing with local residents, you should adhere to a calm, benevolent tone, be polite.
- Smoking in public places is prohibited. Violation of the rule is punishable by a considerable fine.
- When entering a clinic, office or church, you need to take off your shoes. If you do not do this, then they simply will not be allowed into the room.
Compliance with these simple rules will help you avoid embarrassing situations and make your vacation in this country interesting and memorable. 
Drinking alcohol in public places is punishable by a large fine. In addition, the population is extremely religious and has a negative attitude towards alcohol. In some states (Gujarat, Uttaranchal), alcohol is generally prohibited. In other places, alcohol can be purchased without any problems, only there may be time restrictions.
Shoppers should take into account that in India most stores are open from 10:00 to 22:00, with the exception of some large shopping malls that continue to work until midnight.
Going to India, you need to take care of the visa in advance. This document is issued exclusively at the India Visa Application Center. 
The best resorts
Most main resort countries. It is here that the elegance of Europe and the exoticism of Asia are combined. Long coastline with clean beaches, white sand, fashionable hotels, cozy restaurants are aimed at making your vacation in Goa comfortable and unforgettable.
Located on the coast of the Arabian Sea, this resort is the capital of coconut and mango plantations, spices and tea. Kerala is the center of Indian healing, which is why they come here not only to relax, but also to improve their health.
The sandy coast of the Arabian Sea awaits beach lovers. Admirers of active pastime can go on an excursion to the coffee and spice plantations, study the wildlife of the reserves or enjoy the views of numerous historical monuments.
Rest will not be truly complete without a visit to the capital of the country - Delhi. It will be of interest primarily to history buffs and connoisseurs of beauty. It combines two completely different, in terms of history, cities.
In the north of the country, Agra is located - a dynamic, developing city. It attracts tourists from all over the planet with one of the seven wonders of the world -. Its rich history and distinctive beauty make this resort a major attraction in India.
Jaipur, unique in its beauty, is the capital of Rajasthan. The visiting card of the city is Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Winds). The former royal Palace, Jantar-Mantar observatory, Sarga-Suli tower, Amber fortress-palace and many other interesting places.
In the west of the country is the city of Mumbai, famous for its Bollywood. Picturesque corners wildlife closely intertwined with ancient architectural monuments and modern skyscrapers. The frantic rhythm of itself big city India will appeal primarily to young people.
The South Indian state of Tamil Nadu has the longest beach in the country. The tropical climate, calm and calm sea, coral reefs, nightlife on the beach will help you to fully enjoy your vacation.
Located on the banks of the sacred Ganges. First of all, this resort is interesting for its cultural and religious characteristics. There is no gentle sea, sparkling shopping centers, but there are many sacred sites Buddhism.
Going to the state of Rajasthan, you need to take into account that it is known primarily for its military history and a large number of fortresses and forts. Many architectural monuments from different eras have survived to this day and will be interesting to visit.
The Indians themselves call Chennai the "South Gate of India". Fort St. George, the most beautiful Cathedral, Park Serpents - these places are the pride of the resort town, they must be visited.
Due to its length from the coast inland, the resort boasts a variety of climatic and natural conditions. Its coastline is renowned for its delightful beaches.
The small picturesque town of Orchkha seems to have been lost in the 16th century. Its architecture is the pinnacle of the Rajput art of building.
This northernmost state in the country is distinguished by rich beautiful valleys, pristine lakes, wild forests and numerous ancient temples. Perfect for family vacation.
If you are planning on a trip to enjoy the views of unusual nature and various architectural monuments, then you should go to Kolkata. The most popular attractions here are Victoria Memorial and Fort William.
Located closer to the Indian Ocean. The resort is interesting primarily because it has seven different cultures. The modern bustling city is suitable for families.
This is an amazing resort in which history and modernity are closely intertwined with the monuments of Muslim art. The huge Char Minar arch, the medieval fortress of Golconda, the Salar Jang museum, and the Birla planetarium are of tourist interest.
Everyone who decides to go to India during their vacation takes home a lot of incredible emotions and unforgettable experience... Exotic beaches, mysterious sights, features of Asian flavor and gourmet cuisine will remain in your memory for a lifetime. 
Of all the countries of the world, most likely, it is India that is capable of turning a person's worldview, forever changing his idea of \u200b\u200blife, death, and happiness. Traveling through this large and colorful country, you can see so much that the trip can replace the tourist with a trip around the world.
To the traveler who was about to commit independent travel to a country of thousands of secrets and a million mysteries, it is worth a little preparation for the trip. Many Europeans, getting to India unprepared, experience a strong culture shock, which spoils all impressions of this country. It's all about the attitude of Indians to the material world: they do not consider it worthy of attention... Therefore, many Europeans, upon arrival in the country, are struck by dirty streets, littered reservoirs, an abundance of beggars and homeless people on the streets. The main thing here is to be able to discern all the treasures of a rich and so unlike our culture. Be able to see reflected stars in a puddle. However, the shock soon passes, and the person begins to see, think, feel in a different way. And all the treasures of Indian history and modernity will leave extremely positive impressions: the taste of masala tea, the aroma of the temple incense, the Taj Mahal shimmering in the pink haze, and the smiling street preacher ...
Despite the fact that housing and food in India is very cheap, there are high travel costs to be resigned to, as well as the $ 60 visa fee.
Visa
The Indian Republic has made an attempt to save tourists from many countries, including Russia, from communicating with bureaucrats or smiling and avaricious workers of travel agencies and visa centers when obtaining a regular tourist visa. An entry permit, valid for no more than 30 days, can be obtained online by filling out a form on the website https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/tvoa.html.
To obtain permission, you will need to upload your photo to the site, as well as a scan of your passport in pdf format. This must be done at least 5 days before the trip, but it is better to do it earlier, since the system does not always work flawlessly. Here you can also pay the consular fee - $ 60. You can pay for the service with VISA or Master Card.
A visa can also be obtained in the usual way: at consulates, visa centers or through mediation travel companies... All of these methods will result in higher costs.
Road
You can fly from Moscow to the Indian capital of Delhi by Aeroflot ships, as well as by ETIHAD and TURKISH AIRLINES aircraft. The last two offer to travel with a transfer, but cheaper. The leading domestic carrier guarantees a direct and non-stop flight, but charges a little more for speed.
Direct flight (6 hours in the sky) - from 322 euros in both directions, with a transfer in Abu Dhabi (ETIHAD) - from 290 euros, but the journey takes 12 hours or more (waiting at the airport - 3 hours or more).
Turkish airlines also offer inexpensive tickets, but political motives, as well as the unstable situation in Istanbul, can scare away domestic tourists from the services of this, by the way, very good airline.
Housing
Even in the capital fabulous country you can find a double room in the hotel with all the amenities - from 4 euros per day. Of course, you should not expect from a European-level establishment, but for a tourist who can do without breakfast in the room and a safe, it is quite suitable.
Hotel offering double rooms from 15 to 20 euros, provide customers with quite European comfort and amenities.
Basically, there are thousands of excellent hotels in India that do not have their own internet page, are not available in the database of hotel reservation systems, but offer good accommodation. Many experienced tourists do not reserve rooms in advance and go at random, which allows them to save even more. But for those who are traveling to India for the first time, it is better to book accommodation in advance.
Apartments in Delhi or Mumbai can be found for 15-17 euros / day. Living with a Hindu family can be an unforgettable cultural experience. This service costs from 16 euros per day, including breakfast. In addition to all the usual amenities, this type of accommodation will provide you with kind advisers and even guides to the most interesting places in the cities of India.
Food
Indian cuisine is rice, vegetables, dairy products, nuts and honey. Not everyone eats meat in the country, but in many restaurants you can see dishes from lamb, goat meat, poultry (chicken, goose, duck, turkey) on the menu. The abundance of fruits is simply magnificent, fresh juices are available everywhere.
And now about the main thing: the amount of spices in Indian dishes is simply unimaginable for a European person. When ordering any dish, except for dessert and water, you need to add magic words: "But spicy, pliz!" (no spices, please). This does not mean at all that the served dish will be bland, not at all. Simply in this case, they will bring you food that you can eat and admire with a completely unique flavor bouquet.
Everything in India is delicious. Many Europeans are discovering vegetarianism, overwhelmed by the abundance of delicious dishes made from fruits, nuts, vegetables and dairy products. Oriental sweets and spices, unique in their “ensemble” of aromas, are so different from the familiar and familiar that the culinary adventure will turn out to be almost as bright as the acquaintance with the most ancient culture.
If you eat in cafes, snack bars and small restaurants for local residents, then you won't have to spend more than 5-6 euros per person per day.
Choosing places for tourists, add 3-4 euros to the indicated amount, and if you want to indulge in local whiskey or rum for dinner, then add a couple more euros to the amount. As a result, we get that, even without denying ourselves anything, you won't have to spend more than 10-12 euros per day on food.
What to try?
It will take several dozen pages of text to list all the famous Indian dishes, but you can single out the "magnificent ten" dishes that you just need to try:
- Dal is a lentil stew, richly flavored with spices. The basis of the diet of more than half of a huge country. The most inexpensive and affordable dish. Of the main advantages: satisfying, healthy and inexpensive;
- Palak-Panir - the most delicate cheese in a spinach sauce, there are many varieties of this dish, only one invariably is an excellent taste;
- Sabji is an unusually common vegetable stew with rice and flatbread. Vegetarian masterpiece;
- Tandoori Chicken - marinated chicken baked in a special oven. The dish is spicy, but bland rice and flat cakes “level out” the situation. Yummy!
- Chapati is the most common type of bread. It looks like a flatbread that reveals all its flavor characteristics along with any sauce;
- Thali - it's hard to call it a dish. By ordering Thali, you get a plate with tortillas, rice, vegetables, sauces - a great lunch;
- Gajar Ka - halva made from ordinary carrots and almonds, a favorite delicacy in the north of the country;
- Samosa - fried pies with vegetable or curd filling;
- Raita - cold vegetable soup, prepared on the basis of yogurt - exotic okroshka is especially good in the heat, especially in summer.
While traveling in India, you can eat in European restaurants, where the dishes will be familiar. But fish delicacies are best ordered if the restaurant is located by the sea. In this case, the freshness of the fish products is guaranteed. Experienced travelers advise against eating fish in India from May to August when the weather is very hot.
Dal - lentil stew Main attractions
Agree that in a country where there are about hundreds of thousands of ancient temples, palaces, monuments, sanctuaries, it is difficult to determine what should be visited first of all. Travel guides offer a variety of sites and routes to suit all tastes, but they all include a few sites that are simply impossible to miss:
- Delhi - you can spend two days in the capital, or you can study it for several weeks. You must definitely visit Lal Qila or the red fort - the citadel-palace, the imperial residence of the rulers, the main historical building of the city (entrance - 2 euros, evening light and sound show - additional 0.67 euros); Kubt Minar is an old mosque, from which only a minaret remains. The main object is a mysterious iron column, which has not corroded at all for 1500 years (entrance - 3.30 euros); Lakshmi-Narayan - a modern Hindu temple, opened in the middle of the twentieth century;
- Agra (2 hours from the capital by train, ticket - 9.40 euros one way) - the main thing here is the tomb of the Shah's wife Jihan (Taj Mahal). Entrance fee - 10 euros;
- Ajanta - caveman temple complex, a place to search for a way of deliverance from suffering: ancient paintings, Buddha statues, huge halls and narrow cells (entrance - 3.30 euros, from Mumbai to Aurangabad by train, 4.5 hours, 3.50 euros one way; then by bus - 0.20 euros, 20 minutes);
- Mumbai is a city of museums and markets, vibrant and busy night lifeone of the most modern cities in the country, Indian Hollywood, there are many interesting things, but the real India is hard to see here;
- Varanasi - city of the dead, a place of funeral pyres, cleansing from all sins and funeral ceremonies. The sight is quite specific, like the aromas prevailing in the city. But one cannot recognize India without visiting Varanasi. From Delhi by train 11 hours, ticket - from 4 euros one way;
- Kolkata - it's just nice to walk along the central streets of the old city, look into the temple of the goddess Kali, visit the Kumar Tuli quarter of artisans, buy a small statuette of one of the many gods here, relax in the Maidan Park. The city has a reputation cultural capital India, although it makes a depressing impression on many Europeans, but after several days of living, huge areas of slums no longer seem so scary, and numerous museums and showrooms will help fill the time of your stay with vivid emotions and pleasant memories.
The list is far from complete. In all major cities in India you can find an experienced and knowledgeable guide from local residents who, for a nominal fee of 3-5 euros, will show hometown from the most unexpected side, they will help to bypass the queues at museums and palaces, provide comfortable spot in the temple during the service.
Important!
Traveling to the country of magnificent temples and palaces, one must not forget that there are some peculiarities of hygiene and behavior in India. Take some simple but useful items with you:
- Wet disinfectant wipes;
- Activated carbon and anti-acid (like Gastal);
- Hydrogen peroxide tablets;
- Patch.
Do not drink tap water or water pots. Only in store-bought bottles.
Unforgettable impressions!
The resorts of India are scattered literally throughout the country, especially on the coasts.
Kerala is located in the southwest of India - the capital of spices and coconut trees, a land of rice, tea and coffee plantations. Since ancient times, this land has attracted travelers and traders from all over the world not only for rare goods, but also for the picturesque nature and hospitality of local residents.
Delhi, the capital of India and the administrative center of the union territory of Delhi, is located in the northern part of the country, on the high right bank of the Jamna River at the foot of the hilly ridge of Aravali. Delhi has several world famous luxury hotels, the sophisticated style and comfort of which will ensure the traveler has a good stay.
The western gateway of India is called the capital of the state of Maharashtra - Bombay. This chain of seven islands is the most important commercial, industrial and financial center, as well as the largest port in India. Traditionally, Bombay is considered the center of the Indian film industry.
Goa is the pearl of the Indian coast, the world famous resort. It is located on the shores of the Indian Ocean, about 400 kilometers south of Bombay. Goa is famous for its endless sandy beaches, transparent ocean and cloudless sky, which attracts the Indian and world elite.
A schematic map of India presents you all the most amazing cities and resorts of this mysterious and attractive country, which will not leave indifferent any connoisseur of beauty!
| Varanasi |
|---|
 |
Varanasi, located on the banks of the Ganges, is a sacred city for Hindus. Its old name "Kashi" is translated as "city of light". Presumably this is one of oldest cities the world. It stands on an ancient trade route, Hindus believe that this is one of the few holy places - a kind of gateway to another world. It is believed that if a person dies in Varanasi, his soul will no longer be reincarnated, he will free himself from earthly captivity and leave the wheel of Samsara. The twisted and tangled streets of Varanasi seem to be saturated with prayers, a powerful and all-consuming religious life has become the center and meaning of the city. |
| Jaipur |
|---|
| Jodpur |
|---|
India is a unique and distinctive country, like a big magnet, it attracts travelers from all over the world. Tourists are happy to learn about the rich history, culture, architecture and amazing ancient traditions. But besides the sights, the country welcomes guests with wonderful beaches. Many resorts in India by the sea are superior to the world's popular health resorts. The article tells about the most best locationswhere to come to rest. You can go to India as a lone tourist, with your soul mate, a fun company or with children. Everyone here will find entertainment to their liking.
Amazing country
India - largest country in South Asia. In terms of population, it ranks second in the world after China. Home to the ancient Harappan civilization, and also the cradle of oldest religions - Hinduism and Buddhism.
The country is washed from the southeast by the warm waters of the Bay of Bengal and Indian Ocean, and from the southwest - the Arabian Sea. Due to this, the length coastline is more than 7 thousand kilometers. Almost all the coast there are resorts in India by the sea, where more and more tourists from Russia and Europe come every year. What attracts tourists here? This is a favorable climate in high season and a gentle sea, which warms up to 25-28 degrees, unique culture and architecture, many attractions, original Indian cuisine and, of course, friendly local people.
Where to go, where to stay, what are the most popular resorts in India by the sea? The following article provides a quick overview of the best Indian
Goa
It is the smallest state in India, located on the coast of the Arabian Sea. It has a reputation for being a world class resort. Everything here is arranged well for the comfort of tourists. But the undeveloped infrastructure and local architectural beauties attract travelers from all over the world here. The main attraction of Goa is the 100-kilometer sea beaches with gentle and clean sand. Large diving centers, upscale hotels, chic restaurants, clubs and discos are scattered along the coast. In the immediate vicinity there are many interesting places for a cultural pastime. Those who stay in Goa are generally not looking for another place to stay.
Kerala
This state is located by the Arabian Sea, south of Goa. It is decorated with coconut, mango and this place is called the capital of spices. It is also the center of Ayurveda, a world-renowned healing system. Therefore, many come here not only to soak up the white sand by the sea, but also to improve their health. Kerala's rich cultural heritage and many entertainment options diversify
Karnataka
The state is located in the south of Hindustan. Its territory is covered with dense forests, coffee and spice plantations, there are many protected areas and cultural and historical monuments. But the main thing that attracts tourists to these places is the stunning beaches. We continue to list the popular resorts in India by the sea.
Maharashtra
It is a large state in the central part of the country. It has an extended shape from the coast of the Arabian Sea inland, therefore it is known for its diverse natural and climatic conditions and rich opportunities for diversified recreation. Here is the legacy ancient civilization intertwined with modern skyscrapers. The most popular resort town, especially among young people, is Bombay.
Tamil Nadu
The southernmost state is washed by the Indian Ocean. Its beaches are the longest in the country and Marina beach is the second longest in the world. The tropical climate prevails here, in the high season the ocean waters are warm, gentle, welcoming. In addition to swimming, you can rent a yacht or speedboat, scuba dive and admire the coral reefs, visit colorful local attractions or enjoy nightlife. One of the most famous cities in the state is Chennai, which the Indians call the "South Gate of India".
Gujarat
The state in the west of the country is famous for its temple complexes, mosques, forts, beautiful parks... The Gujarat Mountains are a popular destination for pilgrims. There are 10 temples at the top of Girnar in Gujarat. To get to them, you need to climb the stairs of 5000 steps. And of course, tourists love to spend time on the coast of the Arabian Sea.
The most popular beach is Mandvi, 6 kilometers long. It is distinguished by fine white sand and azure coastal waters. Here you can watch sunrises and sunsets of unprecedented beauty. For lovers active rest high-speed motor boats, surfs, scooters, scuba diving, fishing equipment are available for rent. Tourists need to be aware that some of Gujarat's beaches are unsuitable for swimming due to the high tide and fast deep currents.
What are the most best resorts India by the sea? Reviews of travelers clearly indicate that they are located in the states of Goa, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra. The best beaches in these regions will be listed below.
When is it better to go to rest in India
Tourists are advised to go on vacation to the resorts of India by the sea from October to March. In October, the rainy season ends, and the season for diving, surfing and of course swimming opens. In November, the tops of the Himalayas are covered with snow caps, and in Goa, Kerala, aquamarine waters invitingly attract travelers. The peak of tourist activity occurs in the winter months - December, January and February. This is the so-called high season. At this time, the optimum air and water temperature is established, the humidity level is significantly reduced, the amount of precipitation drops sharply.
The Arabian coast of Hindustan is hundreds of kilometers of wonderful sandy beaches, among which there are pristine, almost untouched by human hands, and ultramodern with first-class comfortable hotels and developed infrastructure. Indian resorts by the sea, photos of which are presented in the article, promise their guests a wonderful vacation surrounded by exotic nature.
In addition to the beach season, the period from November to March is considered the best for excursions and sightseeing in India. In April, the tropical rainy season begins, which lasts until early October. The thermometer rarely drops below the 40-degree mark, the humidity indicator reaches 90-100%. Together, this creates very uncomfortable weather conditions for a European, so few tourists come to India at this time (low season).
Indian resorts by the sea: Kerala
This state is called a tropical paradise for tourists. It stretches for almost 600 kilometers along the Arabian Sea. The beaches here are small, but municipal. They are recognized as the cleanest and most comfortable in the country. The best of them are located in the vicinity of cities such as Alleppey (also called Alappuzha), Varkala, Kovalam, Kannur, and not far from the village of Muzhappilangad.
What tourists say:
- Allepie - very beautiful place with palm groves among streams, lakes and lagoons. There is an excellent Vijaya Beach park with picnic areas and playgrounds.
- Varkala is famous for its healing springs. For a small fee, local therapists will provide a special body massage.
- Kovelam is located in a bay with coral reefs. It's like it was made for fans active pastime - divers, surfers, kayakers and water skiers.
- Kannur is ideal for families.
- Husband appilangad is unique in that its beaches are accessible by car.
The listed resorts of India by the sea are equipped with budget guest houses, as well as 4 and 5-star hotels with excellent service... It will not work directly from Russia to get to Kerala. First you need to get to Delhi or Bombay, from where it will not be difficult to get / fly to your destination.
Goa beaches
According to many, the best seaside resorts in India are located in Goa. The state is divided into North and North Goa and is designed for budget travelers, there are many budget hotels and inexpensive cafes, young people are happy to have fun at discos. The beaches here are covered with darker sand and have high shores. In the most distant part North Goa located wild beach Tiracol. Anjuna is also deserted. But Baga, Calangute and Vagator are well-groomed places where tourists rest in an organized and inexpensive way. The most respectable beach is Candolim.
South Goa is chosen by wealthy Europeans and wealthy Indians. It is a comfortable area, quiet and peaceful. The most picturesque place here is called Om. Bogmalo is a very small corner with excellent sandy coastsurrounded by tall palm trees. Basically, everything local beaches - Aguada, Majorda, Colva, Benaulim, Cavelossim - clean and well maintained, with good hotels, excellent restaurants, well-developed infrastructure.
If you are planning a trip to the resorts of India by the sea, Goa - great option... There is a safe sea, a good bottom, there are no steep rocks and pitfalls, the waves are weak during the season. Getting here is very easy, there are many direct flights and trains.
Wonderful beaches in Tamil Nadu
In the state of Tamil Nadu are the wonderful resorts of India by the sea. Covelong is a beautiful beach, the best in the state, located 40 kilometers from the bustling metropolis of Chennai. It is very picturesque and calm here. Tourists can do anything water view sports. One of the interesting sights is the canal system between Covelong and Alleppey.
Marina Beach is 12 kilometers of golden sand and clear azure sea. Even locals come here specifically to enjoy the magnificent sunrises and sunsets. But you need to swim here with caution because of the strong current. The exotic corner of Rameshwaram Beach on a small island is connected to the land by an engineering miracle - the Indira Gandhi Bridge.
Beach holidays in the state of Maharashta
Ganapatipule is one of best beaches in the state. It is very clean, with white sand, surrounded by picturesque natural beauty. A corner called Dahanu Bordi is famous for its fruit and flower gardens. The luxurious Junu Beach is well-maintained and crowded. Walking along the coast, it's easy to come across a Bollywood celebrity. The complicatedly named Srivardhan Harihareshwar beach is known for its peaceful, tranquil atmosphere. It is great for families with children and for those who love silence and meditation. The beautiful places on the coast - Mandwa and Kihim - are also cozy.
In general, there are a lot of beaches in Maharashta. All of them are clean and well-groomed, excellent infrastructure and many attractions nearby, which makes this seaside resort attractive to millions of tourists. You can get to Maharashta from anywhere in the country. Almost all hotels here are of high class and with excellent service. Not all popular resorts in India by the sea are listed (see photo above). There are still a lot of them - wonderful places for swimming and relaxation.
India is a unique country, full of contrasts, with its own ancient traditions. Before heading here, you need to familiarize yourself with a few rules:
- Come to rest at the resorts of India by the sea, the photos of which are simply mesmerizing, is best in November-March.
- To visit the country, tourists need a visa. All the details need to be checked with the tour operator.
- Do not enter the water in the wrong places. It is dangerous to health and life.
- You can travel around the country by plane (this is the most convenient), train (there are special quotas for tourists), bus or car.
- Girls on the streets of India should not walk in too revealing outfits, in short skirts and shorts, with bare shoulders.
- Communicate with Hindus in a calm and friendly manner. You cannot point to objects with your index finger.
- When entering a temple or mosque, be sure to remove your shoes.
- In many states, hygiene is an acute issue, so you should always carry wet wipes with you, do not drink raw water, wash fruits with soap, and do not eat raw vegetable salads.
There are a huge number of attractions in India. It's just unrealistic to go around them all. But be sure to visit the country's main treasure, its symbol - the snow-white marble Taj Mahal. It is located in the city of Agra, 200 km from Delhi. Tourists will be welcomed by the beautiful resorts of India by the sea. In February in Russia - winter, snow, cold, and here - warm sun, excellent weather, azure sea.
It usually happens like this: having visited India for the first time, either they fall in love with it for life, or they do not accept it at all.
It usually happens like this: having visited India for the first time, either they fall in love with it for life, or they do not accept it at all. The invaluable UNESCO heritage, the incomparable Taj Mahal and Hawa Mahal - and right there, behind the fence, endless garbage dumps. Beach parties in lively Goa, the brilliance of Bollywood - and the usual poverty outside the tourist areas. India is an ambivalent country, and that's putting it mildly.
And yet she is beautiful. Its majestic Himalayas make one believe in the existence of parallel worlds, the amazing beauty of the nature of Kerala strikes at the very heart, and the mystical mystery of religious rites at the sacred Ganges plunges into a trance. India is stunning with anthill cities, where everything mixes in a crazy cocktail: people, religions, languages, customs and smells.
When to go
Old Delhi and the capital of New Delhi are thousands of monuments from different eras: mosques, Hindu temples, mausoleums, colonial-style villas. In huge shopping centers you can “shop” heartily, in restaurants with exquisite cuisine you can appreciate the skill of the chefs.
Jaipur has some incredible Mughal palaces built of pink sandstone. In Agra and the surrounding area, in addition to the famous Taj Mahal, it is interesting to see the 16th century Red Fort with features of Islamic and Hindu architecture and Fatehpur Sikri - the ancient capital of the Akbar I the Great empire.
One of the most powerful tourist magnets is Mumbai with its famous Dharavi slums, Bollywood dream factory and Kanheri Buddhist cave monastery. To visit Bombay is to discover India in all its diversity.
In the Himalayas, you can see fantastic snowy peaks extending into space, millennial temples with monasteries and people still living in past centuries. The most popular destination mountainous india - border Sikkim, surrounded by national parks... It is a great place for cycling, trekking and rafting.
Where to enlighten and heal
Hinduism is extremely popular outside of India. Foreigners believe that if they can comprehend the wisdom of this religion, they will reveal the secrets of being, or at least find peace of mind. To tidy up their health, people go to Ayurvedic resorts in Kerala and Karnataka. There is ayuverda "light", when liberties in food and even entertainment are allowed, but there is a "hard" option - strict adherence to the doctor's prescriptions, a rigid schedule, almost a drill. But they say it's worth it.
For the quintessence of Hinduism, head to the banks of the Ganges in Varanasi. The less impressionable can walk to the embankment and watch the funeral fires burn, and the deceased are seen off on their last journey. The rest should be limited to a tour of the temples, which are countless here.
