07 Must-Have Travel Experiences In India!

Partake in the world's largest Hindu celebration: The Kumbh Mela.

If you want to do something genuinely unique in India, you must go to the Kumbh Mela at least once. This major Hindu event is celebrated every 12 years and attracts a large number of visitors who come to offer prayers and bathe in the sacred confluence of rivers Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati to wash away their sins. The Mela takes place in four locales, each of which hosts this massive gathering once every 12 years. The Mela is held in four cities: Haridwar, Ujjain, Nashik, and Prayagraj. The next Maha Kumbh Mela will be conducted in Prayagraj in 2025. 

The mass assembly during Kumbh Mela is unique in that it includes sadhus, sadhvis, saints, ascetics, pilgrims, locals, and visitors. The festival lasts 48 days, and the entire venue is decked out in festive garb, offering an exclusive and exquisite experience. There are so many beautiful things to experience during the bustling Kumbh Mela, from aartis, kathas, kirtans, and satsangs to cultural activities and mouth-watering bhandaras.

Enjoy an appetizing supper in the Golden Temple, the biggest kitchen in the world.

The biggest kitchen in the world is reportedly operated by the Golden Temple in Amritsar. Over 75,000 people receive free meals each day at the temple's langar. With the intention of involving the community in seva and feeding the needy, Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, began this age-old custom. Veggie-only, straightforward, and nutrient-rich meals are served here. The majority of what they eat is rice, rotis, daal, veggie curries, and dessert.

A total of 5000 people may fit in the temple's two eating halls, which are located in the langar. Simple mats are thrown out on the floor for seating, which is also pretty simple. Everyone who enters the langar is fed by volunteers known as sewadars.

The sewadars at this place also perform all physical labor, including rolling chapatis, cutting vegetables, and making desserts and other meals. On holidays and other special occasions, the langar does, however, also include a roti-making machine. All things considered, one of the finest spiritual experiences in the nation is just visiting the Golden Temple and eating a filling meal at the langar.

Attend the greatest camel fair in the world in Pushkar.

Rajasthan, a state with a vibrant culture, is renowned for holding some of the nation's most stunning festivals and events. However, the Pushkar camel market in Rajasthan is a worthwhile cultural feast to see. This vibrant and distinctive carnival, also known as the Pushkar Fair or Pushkar Camel Fair, attracts some 50,000 animals, including camels, horses, and cattle. This extraordinary occasion is well known for being the biggest livestock fair in the world. Every year, it takes place around the revered Kartik Purnima.

Numerous incredible activities, including camel and horse races, magic shows, cultural performances, exhibitions, wedding competitions, and more, are included throughout this seven-day fair. People competing in the longest mustache contest may also be seen here. Visitors eager to see the magnificence of this huge desert landscape up close frequently partake in camel rides, horseback rides, and hot-air balloon tours, particularly around sunrise and sunset. Pushkar Fair is unquestionably one of the greatest and once-in-a-lifetime events, leaving you with beautiful memories.

Discover Rajasthan's forts and palaces

Rajasthan is renowned for having some of the most spectacular forts and palaces, which are a testament to the splendor of legendary Rajput kings from earlier times. The state has done a remarkable job of preserving the beauty of these significant buildings, which are today essential tourist destinations. So, one of the nicest and most distinctive experiences you can only have in India is touring the well-known forts and palaces of Rajasthan. With their brilliant architectural design, ageless beauty, and historical relevance, these majestic monuments will transport you back in time and enchant you.

Jaisalmer Fort in Jaisalmer, Amer Fort in Jaipur, Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur, Junagarh Fort in Bikaner, Lohagarh Fort in Bharatpur, Chittorgarh Fort in Chittorgarh, Monsoon Palace in Udaipur, and Umaid Bhawan Palace in Jodhpur are a few well-known forts and palaces that you must visit while traveling through Rajasthan. You will be astounded by the exquisite carvings, detailed artwork, striking murals, archaic weapons, and astounding craftsmanship of these ancient monuments. Additionally, the majority of the forts in Rajasthan are perched atop hills and give breathtaking views of the surrounding area and city.

Travel by boat along Varanasi's revered Ganga River.

A boat trip on the Ganges in Varanasi is one of the most distinctive experiences you can have in India, so you shouldn't pass it up. The most sacred Hindu city in India, Varanasi, is a well-liked destination for visitors and pilgrims. The city is renowned for its Ghats on the River Ganga, in addition to the acclaimed Kashi Vishwanath Temple and other sites. Numerous boats are also available for rent in these Ghats. 

From dawn till dusk, Varanasi's Ghats offer a variety of equally stunning boat trips on the Ganges. The trip at sunset promises a dreamlike experience with the burning of several diyas and incense sticks and the sound of aarti, chanting, and bells, while the journey at daybreak provides the greatest views of the Ghats and the holy river. The majority of pilgrims and visitors like to take boat excursions during Ganga Aarti. Another distinctive and not-to-be-missed event in the city, particularly for history buffs, is the Kashi darshan boat trip. Various Ghats, many fort-like homes, and other features may be observed up close throughout the ride. 

Enjoy exploring Kerala's backwaters in a boat.

It is only possible to enjoy houseboat cruising in India's tranquil backwaters. The stunning state of Kerala is famed for its backwater excursions because it has labyrinthine rivers surrounded by coconut palms and luscious green vegetation. The breathtaking and distinctive natural structure is what draws visitors from all over the world.

Alleppey Backwaters, Kumarakom Backwaters, Kuttanad Backwaters, Kollam Backwaters, Thiruvallam Backwaters, and Kozhikode Backwaters are just a few of the stunning backwater excursions available in Kerala. Each of these is distinctive and guarantees a novel and unforgettable experience. Both basic and luxurious houseboats come with essential facilities like bedrooms, sitting areas, and eating areas so you can relax and take in the scenery while savoring fresh coconut water and other regional specialties.

Observe the beautiful sculptures at the Khajuraho Temples

The Khajuraho Group of Monuments, which the Chandela Dynasty constructed between 950 and 1050 AD, is well known among those who like history and architecture. These historic temples, which exhibit the exquisite Nagara architectural style, provide light on the past era's culture and astound visitors. The biggest collection of Hindu and Jain temples from the Indian medieval period may be seen in the Khajuraho complex, which is located in the Madhya Pradesh district of Chhatarpur. In 1986, UNESCO designated the Khajuraho Group of Monuments as a World Heritage Site.

Although these temples are most known for their distinctive sexual sculptures, it's fascinating to remember that they only make up roughly 10% of the complex's overall carvings. The remaining sculptures depict everyday people from that era, including potters, farmers, musicians, and ladies. These temples are the best examples of Indian art that can be seen anywhere in the world because to the exquisite craftsmanship and magnificent sculptures.