What to do in India: 20 must-sees and must-dos

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Taj Mahal, Agra

In the heart of Agra, you’ll discover the majestic Taj Mahal, a masterpiece of Mughal architecture. Erected in the 17th century by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, this monument is a symbol of eternal love.

The Taj Mahal stands proudly with its white marble facade encrusted with precious stones, reflecting its beauty in the waters of the Yamuna. Its elaborate structure, slender domes and lush gardens make it a visual marvel. You can explore every nook and cranny of this UNESCO World Heritage site, appreciating the meticulous details of its architecture.

Jaipur, the pink city

Welcome to Jaipur, India’s magnificent “Pink City”, where history and culture intertwine in a spellbinding visual symphony. This iconic city in the state of Rajasthan gets its nickname from the distinctive pink hue of its historic buildings, which was used to welcome the Prince of Wales in 1876.

Jaipur is a veritable architectural treasure trove, with the famous Hawa Mahal, or “Palace of the Winds”, standing like an openwork marvel in pink sandstone. Jaipur’s City Palace is another jewel, home to fascinating museums and sumptuous gardens.

Amber Fort

Built in the 16th century, Amber Fort is a remarkable example of Rajput architecture, with its red sandstone walls and impressive decorated doors. As you explore its corridors, palaces and courtyards, you’ll discover the opulence of Jaipur’s former royalty.

Amber Fort is also home to iconic sites such as the Sheesh Mahal Palace, known for its inlaid mirrors and artistic motifs. You can also enjoy a memorable elephant ride to the fort.

Varanasi, the holy city

Located on the banks of the Ganges, Varanasi is one of the world’s oldest cities and a major pilgrimage site for Hindus.

This spiritual place is famous for its ghats, where devotees bathe in the sacred waters of the Ganges to cleanse themselves of their sins. The ghats are also the scene of rituals and religious ceremonies, creating a spellbinding atmosphere.

Varanasi is famous for its temples, of which the Kashi Vishwanath temple, dedicated to Shiva, is one of the most revered. The narrow streets of the old town are packed with bustling bazaars, where you can buy silk fabrics, handicrafts and unique souvenirs.

Delhi, the historic capital

Delhi is the cradle of Indian history, home to architectural treasures such as the Red Fort, the Qutb Minar and Humayun’s tomb, all UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These monuments bear witness to the city’s past grandeur and transport you back in time.

Delhi’s old town will plunge you into a labyrinth of bustling streets, colorful markets and exquisite flavors. Don’t miss a visit to the Jama Masjid, one of India’s largest mosques, or a rickshaw ride through the Chandni Chowk district.

The Thar Desert, Rajasthan

The Thar Desert, India’s largest sand desert, is a unique destination that offers an extraordinary experience.

During your visit, you can explore the picturesque villages scattered across the desert, home to the nomadic inhabitants of Rajasthan. These villages offer a fascinating glimpse of traditional desert life, with their adobe houses, colorful clothes and ancestral customs.

The sand dunes are ideal for trekking and camel safaris. You can enjoy camel rides at sunset, when the desert takes on magical golden hues.

Kerala, the backwaters

Kerala’s backwaters are a complex network of lagoons, rivers, canals and lakes fringed by lush coconut palms. This picturesque region offers a unique and soothing experience, perfect for travelers in search of tranquility.

When exploring the backwaters, you can board a “houseboat”, a traditional wooden floating house, for a picturesque cruise. Gliding gently over the calm waters, you can admire the peaceful beauty of the scenery, observe the daily life of the locals and discover a variety of birds and fish.

Goa, paradise beaches

Today, I’m taking you to the magnificent Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park in southern Chile. If you’re looking for a place where nature is king, this is the place to come. You’ll marvel at the beauty of the Osorno volcano, which dominates the landscape, and the crystal-clear waters of Lake Todos Los Santos. You can also visit the Calbuco volcano, Lake Llanquihue and the Salto del Petrohué. And don’t miss the Cascada del Río Pescado, a majestic and enchanting waterfall. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy kayaking, rafting, hiking or skiing, depending on the season.

Hey Yupers! Did you know that Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park is Chile’s oldest national park? Come and discover this natural wonder!

The capital, Mumbai

Mumbai, a dynamic city on India’s west coast, known as “the city that never sleeps”. This fascinating metropolis is the economic and cultural heart of India, offering a unique experience around every corner.

When you explore Mumbai, you’ll immediately be struck by its striking contrast between modernity and tradition. Majestic skyscrapers stand alongside historic colonial buildings, creating a captivating urban landscape.

There’s no shortage of points of interest in Mumbai. You can visit the famous Gateway to India, the majestic Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus and the historic Colaba district. And don’t miss the Bollywood district, the Indian film industry for which the city is famous.

Rajasthan

This region is famous for its majestic palaces, imposing forts and temples adorned with splendid sculptures. The Taj Mahal in Agra is an architectural masterpiece and a symbol of eternal love.

Rajasthan is also renowned for its vibrant festivals, such as the Pushkar Festival and the Jaisalmer Desert Festival, which will immerse you in the festive and colorful atmosphere of India.

The Golden Temple, Amritsar

This sacred site is one of India’s most iconic and revered places, attracting thousands of pilgrims and visitors from all over the world.

The Golden Temple, also known as Harmandir Sahib, is an architectural marvel entirely covered in gold, hence its nickname. It rests in the middle of a sacred pool, called the Sarovar, which is surrounded by white marble.

Rishikesh and Haridwar, spiritual cities

Welcome to Rishikesh and Haridwar, two blessed Indian cities nestled at the foot of the Himalayas, where spirituality and serenity reign supreme.

Rishikesh, nicknamed “the gateway to the Garhwal Himalayas”, is renowned as the cradle of yoga. The banks of the Ganges are home to renowned ashrams and yoga schools where travelers from all over the world come to recharge their batteries and reconnect with their inner selves. The town offers a peaceful setting for meditation, contemplation and spiritual quest.

Ladakh, for Himalayan landscapes

Ladakh is a trekker’s paradise, with itineraries that take you through verdant valleys, mountain-perched monasteries and deep-blue lakes like Lake Pangong Tso. You can also visit ancient monasteries, such as Hemis and Thiksey, to learn about Buddhist history and attend the colorful festivals held there.

Jodhpur, the blue city

Jodhpur derives its nickname of “the blue city” from its indigo-painted houses, giving it an enchanting atmosphere. You can lose yourself in the narrow streets of the old town, where every corner reveals a new architectural marvel, bustling bazaars and ancient temples.

The Mehrangarh fortress, which dominates the city, is one of India’s largest fortresses. You can explore its sumptuous palaces, museums and inner courtyards offering panoramic views of the city.

The city of lakes, Udaipur

Udaipur is a picturesque destination famous for its sparkling lakes, majestic palaces and romantic ambience.

The city is crowned by the majestic Lake Pichola, on which floats the City Palace, an architectural masterpiece that seems to rise from the waters. A boat trip on Lake Pichola offers breathtaking views of the palaces and temples that line its shores.

Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand

Jim Corbett Park is renowned for its diverse wildlife, especially its majestic tigers. In fact, it’s one of the best places in India to observe these impressive felines in their natural habitat. As well as tigers, the park is home to a wide variety of animals, including elephants, leopards, deer, crocodiles and numerous bird species.

The archaeological site of Hampi

As you explore Hampi, you’ll marvel at the impressive remains of temples, palaces and intricate stone structures. Majestic monuments such as the Virupaksha temple, massive gopurams and stone-carved elephants bear witness to the region’s rich architectural and artistic heritage. Hampi is also famous for its picturesque landscapes, with bizarre rock formations and lush green rice paddies. The Tungabhadra River flows through the region, offering opportunities for relaxation along its banks.

The temples of Khajuraho

Khajuraho is an architectural and cultural treasure that has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temples are built in sandstone and depict scenes of daily life, mythology and love. They are divided into three groups: Western, Eastern and Southern, each with its own charm and unique details.

High altitude adventure in Leh

Leh is a popular starting point for hiking and trekking in the mountains. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore picturesque trails, discover Buddhist monasteries perched on hillsides and enjoy the serenity of high-altitude lakes. Highlights include Thiksey Monastery, Pangong Tso Lake and Hemis Monastery.

The royal palace in Mysore

Mysore, a city in the Indian state of Karnataka. It is famous for its magnificent royal palace, one of the most impressive in the country. Mysore Palace is a splendid work of architecture, blending Hindu, Mughal and Gothic styles.

The palace is spectacularly illuminated during the Dussehra festival celebrations, creating a breathtaking night view. You can explore the palace’s vast halls, including the audience hall, the durbar salon and the hall of privileges.