Things to Do in India is a country of a hundred thousand experiences. From taking in the grandeur of the Taj Mahal, to visiting the old temples of Varanasi, to walking through the busy markets of Delhi, to taking in the royal heritage of Jaipur’s magnificent forts, to spending time on the stunning beaches of Goa, to taking in the backwaters of Kerala, to trekking in the Himalayas (who wouldn’t want to see that view from top!), to enjoying the architecture of Mysore Palace, India is something special- there’s always something different for everyone to enjoy travel from history, adventure, spirituality, or relaxation.
1. Gali Paranthe Wali (Delhi)
A popular food lane, located in the center of Old Delhi, in the midst of the Chandni Chowk market. On this food lane, there are several well-known eateries all serving the same item: packed Delhi-style stuffed parathas, a flatbread made from wheat dough, and shallow fried in oil on both sides.
While potatoes are the standard filling, you can get them stuffed with just about anything such as cheese, squash, raisins, mint, mixed vegetables, cashews, and more. Some of the places have been in business for more than 100 years, and it doesn’t take long to see why these hole in the wall eateries are nearly always filled with Indians enjoying this delicious meal.
Take the metro to Chandni Chowk. Once there, head east on Chandni Chowk until you hit the alley. Follow the alley and you’ll come to the paratha restaurants.
2. Akshardham (Delhi)
From my perspective, this cultural complex situated on the banks of the Yamuna River is probably the most impressive creation in India. The size of the temple is staggering, as it was built using the carved stonework of tens of thousands of Indian craftsmen. When you first see this place, it will astonish you with its interesting form and otherworldly architecture and that is only from the outside.
Inside, you’ll be in a scene of extremely detailed design from the pillars to the walls to the domed ceilings high above, all contributing to telling the story of Hinduism. Arrive about an hour or so before sunset and you can enjoy the beautiful temple all lit up, helping it further embed itself into your memory.
NH 24, Akshardham Setu, New Delhi (near Akshardham metro), +91 114-344-2344, akshardham.com/visitor-info. Opening Hours: Tuesday-Sunday 9:30 AM-6:30 PM. Admission is free although exhibitions & water shows have an entry fee (per person 80-170 INR).
3. Raj Mandir Cinema (Jaipur)
It is one of the most famous cinemas in India. Opened in 1976, the building is a sizable art-deco structure and my favorite venue in the country to go see a Bollywood movie. The soft-pastel color design, the professional staff in suits, the cinema seating’s expansive and comfortable feel, and the overall ambience from the hundreds of eager Indian moviegoers, makes it feel like you are attending a screening of a major film in its premiere week.
As an added bonus, you’ll only have to walk about two minutes post the movie to MI Road where are many Jaipuri lassi shops. Simply line up, order a large sweet lassi, sit back and revel in its pure tastiness.
4. Chand Baori Stepwell (Abhaneri)
The first time I visited the small, dusty village of Abhaneri, about 10 kilometers off the main Agra-Jaipur road, I was merely expecting to visit a small well in the midst of a ruined ancient village, take a photo and continue my journey onward. An hour and a half later I was still staring at this extraordinarily beautiful, 1,200 year old “water tank”, one of the largest in India.
Built by King Chanda of the Nikumbha Dynasty in 8000 BCE, this gigantic rectangular well is about 30 meters deep and comprises over 3,500 steps arranged in a very deliberate maze pattern on three sides, all cleverly using the reflections of the sunlight off of its angles.
When you are inside, make sure you scope out the dozens of Hindu god statues and religious scene carvings on the outer walkway of the well, some of which are over a thousand years old. There is no entry fee, however, the local caretaker who keeps the area spectacularly well maintained will ask for a “tip” when you are finished.
5. Ranakpur Jain Temple (Ranakpur)
The village of Ranakpur is slightly off the main road between Jodhpur and Udaipur – it is an extraordinarily peaceful place. Other than a few hotels, and a couple of restaurants, there is only the Ranakpur Jain Temple, which is one of the finest Jain temples in the world, constructed in the 15th century.
This temple is situated in the forest and sustained by over 1400 intricately sculptured pillars, because no two pillars are alike, which creates a strangely unsettling feeling as you walk through the courtyard, like you are walking through an endless ancient maze.
I’d definitely suggest to avail of the audio guide included with your ticket as traditional guides aren’t permitted in the interior. The narration provides a comprehensive overview of the building of this temple, its abandonment and its resurgence as a major shrine. Relatively few persons visit Ranakpur when compared to other sites and very few people actually stay overnight in the village.
6. Animal Aid Unlimited (Udaipur)
Udaipur offers an array of attractions and activities to occupy mile after mile of time and energy and is, therefore, a particular favorite of tourists, but something that is not as widely known is an opportunity to volunteer for a day or two at Animal Aid Unlimited. Animal Aid Unlimited is a “rescue center, hospital, and sanctuary for sick or injured street animals,” something that is rare in India despite there being animals everywhere.
When you arrive, you’ll experience cows, donkeys, dogs, pigs, goats, and other animals being tended to by an incredible staff made up of volunteers, veterinarians, and local support staff. I’ve been lucky enough to visit Animal Aid four times now, and each time I make a beeline for the enclosure of dogs who are partially paralyzed. I could probably stay in that enclosure for hours, just hanging out with these super charged pooches who genuinely seem pumped to be in this magical place.
Animal Aid is a marvelous place to go, whether for a staff led tour (which they enjoy) or simply to volunteer. They are open to short term volunteers, as well as long term volunteers.
7. Jolly Music House (Varanasi)
It is tough not to be enthralled by this 3,800-year-old city, even if not every traveler shares our affinity for the chaos and grit of Varanasi. There are religious ceremonies, endless temples, open-air cremation grounds, unbelievably narrow streets filled with ancient market stalls, rumbling palaces in disrepair, prayers and people bathing in the holy Ganges, stray cows and dogs on the streets — and so much more all in one destination.
Aside from all the regular sights and experiences though, there is one little room down a lane in the Bengali Tola area of the Old City that I always look forward to entering. This is the Jolly Music House, owned and operated by the ever-friendly Jolly, a middle aged man and very accomplished musician, who offers courses/lessons on all types of traditional Indian instruments. But if you simply ask him, he’ll schedule you a concert in the evening. The experience will enthrall you and you will be gently inclined to return every evening you’re in this city; tell him that Earl sent you.
8. Medieval city of Orchha (Orchha)
Bus groups typically stop at Orchha for a few hours, visit a couple of temples, and move on to their next destination. However, if you spend a couple of nights in Orchha, with what seems like an infinite number of beautiful temples and palaces at every turn, you will have the chance to experience this medieval city virtually to yourself.
Get up early, before all the bus tours get there, and rent a bike. Ride your bike along the paths that attach all the temples, palaces, and fort, and you will be the only one on those paths. Once the buses start leaving in the evening, go into the courtyard of the Ram Raja Temple, which is a big pilgrimage site for Lord Ram. Get up on the roof and see life below because there are typically festivals and celebrations going on around the temple.
9. Golden Temple (Amritsar)
With its glittering golden shrine and an unending and welcoming flow of local pilgrims to engage with, every visit is unique and rewarding. Make your way to the Langar Hall, the community dining hall where all guests – Indian and foreigners – can go in for a simple but tasty free meal; available at almost any time. Langar Hall will typically serve in excess of 100,000 people per day. You sit on the floor, they serve you food, you eat then leave, so another crowd of several hundred people can do the same shortly after.
While there isn’t much opportunity for talking, you will likely find yourself waving and smiling to many Indians sitting nearby, all of whom are curious as to why you are there. Once back outside, you will often find yourself shaking hands with people you were eating with and chatting away.
10. Palolem Beach (Goa)
If you want that classic Indian beach experience, this is my top recommendation. Located in the famous state of Goa, Palolem is super chill. Beach huts are affordable, and the village is completely walkable and friendly. The white-ish sands are clean and lined with palm trees, the turquoise water is relatively calm and good for swimming, and every night the sunset is spectacular as the sun disappears behind jungle clad Monkey Island at the end of the beach.
The biggest thing I love about this area, is that it has a little bit of everything: independent travelers, couples, a party crowd, all sorts of vacationers, food from all walks of life, some basic nightlife, some water activity, and more than enough day trips to waterfalls, remote beaches, snorkeling sites, canyons, etc while still being very mellow. Here is where I stay when I am there: A mini-guide to Palolem, Goa.
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FAQs
What are the best guided tours in India?
Explore iconic landmarks like the Golden Triangle, Rajasthan, and spiritual tours across India.
What adventure activities can I do in India?
Engage in trekking, rafting, paragliding, safaris, and more, suited to all adventure levels.
What cultural tours are available in India?
Immerse in India’s heritage with temple tours, heritage walks, and historical sightseeing.
When is the best time to visit India?
October to March is ideal for most regions; trekking in the Himalayas is best during summer.
How long do guided tours in India typically last?
Tour durations vary from 3 days to 2 weeks, depending on the destinations and activities.
