Know more about India’s eccentric heritage from India Unimagined
India, often called a subcontinent due to its vast size and diverse landscapes, is where ancient traditions and modern marvels coexist harmoniously. This journey from the northern tip of Kashmir to the southernmost point of Kanyakumari covers a range of experiences, including snow-capped mountains, bustling cities, serene beaches, and rich cultural heritage. Each state and region in India offers a unique blend of history, cuisine, and traditions, making it an unforgettable adventure for any traveller.
Embark on a captivating journey through India, where rich traditions, breathtaking scenery, and timeless hospitality come together to create unforgettable memories and enchanting experiences!
Key Highlights:
Kashmir often called “Paradise on Earth” is know for breath taking natural beauty. The region’s highlights include Dal Lake in Srinagar, where you can stay on traditional houseboats and enjoy shikara rides. The Mughal Gardens, such as Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh, offer a glimpse into the grandeur of Mughal landscaping. In winter, Gulmarg transforms into a premier skiing destination, while Pahalgam is perfect for trekking and river rafting in the summer.
Best Way to Reach:
Fly into Srinagar from major cities like Delhi or Mumbai. Or can choose a train from Delhi to Kashmir.
Best Food:
Enjoy traditional Kashmiri dishes like Rogan Josh, Kashmiri Pulao, and the fragrant Kahwa tea.
Culture and Heritage:
Kashmir is rich in Sufi traditions, with vibrant music and intricate handicrafts like pashmina shawls and papier-mâché products reflecting its cultural heritage.
Key Highlights:
Jammu is famous for the Vaishno Devi Temple, one of the most revered Hindu pilgrimage place. The journey to the temple starte with a trek through the picturesque Trikuta Mountains. Patnitop, a nearby hill station, offers lush green meadows and stunning views, making it a great spot for a peaceful retreat.
Stay:
Choose budget hotels in Jammu or scenic resorts in Patnitop.
Best Way to Reach:
Buses or taxis from Srinagar to Jammu are best way to reach. Also can reach from Chhattisgarh to Jammu.
Best Food:
Taste local specialties like Rajma Chawal and various Dogra dishes, which are hearty and flavorful.
Culture and Heritage:
Jammu is a melting pot of cultures with influences from Hindu, Sikh, and Muslim traditions. The region celebrates various festivals with great fervor, including Lohri and Baisakhi.
Key Highlights:
In Amritsar, visit the Golden Temple, a stunning Sikh gurdwara that attracts millions of visitors annually. The temple’s langar (community kitchen) serves free meals to all visitors, embodying the spirit of equality and service. The Jallianwala Bagh memorial, a site of historical significance, is nearby. Chandigarh, the capital city, is known for its modernist architecture designed by Le Corbusier, and the unique Rock Garden made entirely from industrial and urban waste.
Stay:
Find budget and mid-range hotels in Amritsar and Chandigarh.
Best Way to Reach:
Trains from Jammu to Amritsar.
Best Food:
Relish Punjabi cuisine, including Amritsari Kulcha, Butter Chicken, and Lassi.
Culture and Heritage:
Punjab is known for its vibrant Bhangra dance, lively music, and colorful festivals like Baisakhi and Lohri. Sikhism plays a significant role in the cultural fabric, with gurdwaras serving as community centers.
Key Highlights:
Shimla, the former summer capital of India, boasts colonial architecture and scenic vistas. Take a leisurely walk on the Mall Road or visit the Viceregal Lodge. Manali, another popular destination, is known for adventure sports like paragliding and river rafting. The nearby Rohtang Pass offers breathtaking views and snow activities.
Stay:
Choose from a variety of hotels in Shimla and Manali, ranging from budget to luxury.
Best Way to Reach:
Buses from Chandigarh to Shimla/Manali.
Best Food:
Try local Himachali dishes such as Siddu, Trout fish in Manali, and Dham, a traditional feast.
Culture and Heritage:
Himachal Pradesh is rich in folklore and traditions. The state’s cultural heritage is showcased in its festivals, music, and dance forms. Traditional crafts include weaving, wood carving, and metalwork.
Key Highlights:
Rishikesh is know as the yoga capital of the world, with numerous ashrams offering yoga and meditation courses. The city is also a gateway to the Himalayas and offers adventure activities like white-water rafting. Nainital, with its beautiful lakes and pleasant weather, is a popular hill station.
Stay:
Stay in ashrams in Rishikesh for a spiritual experience or choose hotels in Nainital.
Best Way to Reach:
Buses from Delhi to Rishikesh/Nainital.
Best Food:
Enjoy regional dishes like Aloo Ke Gutke and the sweet delicacy Bal Mithai.
Culture and Heritage:
Uttarakhand has a rich spiritual heritage, with numerous temples and pilgrimage sites. The state’s culture is reflected in its folk music and dance, as well as traditional crafts like ringaal (bamboo) weaving.
Key Highlights:
Delhi is a city of distinction, where ancient monuments stand alongside modern skyscrapers. Key attractions include India Gate, a war memorial; the Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage place and also Qutub Minar, the tallest brick minaret in the world. The city is also known for its bustling markets like Chandni Chowk and modern shopping complexes. There are also many other Top 10 Places to Visit in Delhi have a check.
Stay:
Choose from budget to mid-range hotels in Delhi.
Best Way to Reach:
Flights or trains to Delhi from major cities.
Best Food:
Delhi’s cuisine is a food lover’s paradise. Must-try dishes include Chole Bhature, Paranthas, and a variety of street food from Chandni Chowk.
Culture and Heritage:
Delhi is a cultural hub with a blend of Mughal and colonial heritage. The city’s vibrant arts scene includes traditional and contemporary performances, museums, and galleries. Festivals such as Diwali, Holi, and Eid are celebrated with great enthusiasm.
Key Highlights:
Agra the home of iconic Taj Mahal, a symbol of love and one of the Seven Wonders of the World. The Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri, the UNESCO World Heritage places, showcase Mughal architecture and history. Varanasi, one of the oldest inhabited city in the world, is a spiritual center where the Ganges River plays a central role in religious rituals.
Stay:
Find budget hotels in Agra and Varanasi.
Best Way to Reach:
Trains from Delhi to Agra and Varanasi.
Best Food:
Try Agra’s famous Petha and local street food like Banarasi Chaat and Kachori Sabzi in Varanasi.
Culture and Heritage:
Uttar Pradesh is rich in cultural heritage, with classical music, dance forms like Kathak, and a deep spiritual tradition. The state is known for its elaborate festivals, including the Kumbh Mela, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world.
Key Highlights:
Rajasthan is synonymous with royal heritage. Jaipur, the Pink City, is famous for the Amber Fort, City Palace, and Hawa Mahal. Udaipur, the City of Lakes, offers a splendid romantic boat rides on Lake Pichola and visits to the City Palace. Jaisalmer, with its golden fort and desert safaris, provides a unique desert experience.
Stay:
Stay in heritage hotels and budget accommodations in Jaipur, Udaipur, and Jaisalmer.
Best Way to Reach:
Trains or buses within Rajasthan.
Best Food:
Indulge in traditional Rajasthani cuisine, including Dal Baati Churma, Laal Maas, and Ghevar.
Culture and Heritage:
Rajasthan’s culture is reflected in its folk music, dance, and vibrant festivals like the Pushkar Camel Fair and Jaipur Literature Festival. The state’s handicrafts, including block printing, pottery, and jewelry, are world-renowned.
Key Highlights:
Ahmedabad, a UNESCO World Heritage city, boasts the Sabarmati Ashram, Sidi Saiyyed Mosque, and bustling markets. The Rann of Kutch, with its white salt desert, is best visited during the Rann Utsav, a cultural festival showcasing the region’s crafts, music, and dance.
Stay:
Stay in hotels in Ahmedabad and tents in the Rann of Kutch during the Rann Utsav.
Best Way to Reach:
Trains from Rajasthan to Gujarat.
Best Food:
Enjoy Gujarati dishes like Dhokla, Thepla, and a traditional Gujarati Thali.
Culture and Heritage:
Gujarat is rich in traditions and crafts. The state’s festivals, such as Navratri, are celebrated with fervor, featuring Garba and Dandiya dances. The state’s heritage includes ancient stepwells, Jain temples, and wildlife sanctuaries.
Key Highlights:
Khajuraho is known for its group of temples with exquisite erotic sculptures, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Bandhavgarh National Park offers thrilling wildlife safaris with a chance to spot tigers. Bhopal, the state capital, is famous for its lakes and historical sites like the Sanchi Stupa.
Stay:
Stay in hotels in Khajuraho and safari lodges in Bandhavgarh.
Best Way to Reach:
Travel by train within Madhya Pradesh.
Best Food:
Sample regional delicacies like Poha, Bhutte Ka Kees, and Dal Bafla.
Culture and Heritage:
Madhya Pradesh is known for its classical music and dance, including the annual Khajuraho Dance Festival. The state’s tribal culture is also significant, with unique traditions and crafts.
Key Highlights:
Bodh Gaya is the place where Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree, making major pilgrimage site for Buddhists. Patna, the state capital, has historical sites such as the Patna Museum and Golghar, a granary from the colonial era.
Stay:
Choose budget hotels and guesthouses in Bodh Gaya and Patna.
Best Food:
Enjoy Bihari cuisine with dishes like Litti Chokha and Sattu Paratha.
Culture and Heritage:
Bihar has a rich Buddhist heritage and a history that dates back to ancient times. The state’s festivals, such as Chhath Puja, are deeply rooted in tradition. Bihar’s cultural diversity is reflected in its festivals, such as Chhath Puja and Sonepur Mela, which draw visitors from around the globe. Traditional music, dance forms like Jat-Jatin and Sohar, and exquisite Madhubani paintings showcase the region’s artistic flair. The cuisine, rich with flavors, offers a unique gastronomic experience with delicacies like litti-chokha and thekua.
Key Highlights:
Kolkata, the capital, is known for its colonial architecture, vibrant arts scene, and cultural festivals. Visit landmarks like Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge, and the Indian Museum. Darjeeling, with its tea plantations and views of the Kanchenjunga, offers a serene escape.
Stay:
Find budget to mid-range hotels in Kolkata and Darjeeling.
Best Way to Reach:
Trains or flights to Kolkata cost.
Best Food:
Taste Bengali delicacies like Rosogolla, Fish Curry, and Puchka (pani puri).
Culture and Heritage:
West Bengal is known for its literary heritage, with figures like Rabindranath Tagore and Satyajit Ray hailing from the state. The region celebrates Durga Puja with grandeur, showcasing elaborate pandals and cultural performances.
Key Highlights:
Mumbai, financial capital of India, is known for landmarks like the Gateway of India, Marine Drive, and Bollywood. Pune, a cultural and educational hub, offers a mix of historical sites and vibrant nightlife. The Ajanta and Ellora Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage places, feature ancient rock-cut temples and intricate carvings.
Stay:
Choose from budget to mid-range hotels in Mumbai and Pune.
Best Way to Reach:
Internal flights or trains within Maharashtra.
Best Food:
Enjoy Mumbai’s street food like Vada Pav and Pav Bhaji, and traditional dishes like Puran Poli.
Culture and Heritage:
Maharashtra has a rich cultural heritage, with festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi celebrated with great enthusiasm. The state’s classical music and dance forms, as well as its contribution to theater and cinema, are significant.
Key Highlights:
Goa is famous for vibrant nightlife, Portuguese heritage and beautiful Beaches. Popular beaches include Baga, Anjuna, and Palolem. Explore the colonial architecture in Old Goa, including the Basilica of Bom Jesus and Se Cathedral.
Stay:
Stay in hotels and beach shacks offering various levels of comfort and amenities.
Best Way to Reach:
Flights from major cities to Goa cost around $50-100.
Best Food:
Goan cuisine is a delightful treat of Indian and Portuguese flavors. Try Goan Fish Curry, Bebinca (a traditional dessert), and Vindaloo.
Culture and Heritage:
Goa’s culture is influenced by its Portuguese heritage, evident in its architecture, music, and festivals. The state is known for its laid-back lifestyle and vibrant cultural events like the Goa Carnival.
Key Highlights:
Bangalore, the capital, is known as the Silicon Valley of India for its IT industry. There are many places to visit in Bangalore. With its royal heritage, Mysore famous for the Mysore Palace and the annual Dasara festival. Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage, offers a glimpse into the grandeur of the Vijayanagara Empire with its stunning ruins and temples.
Stay:
Choose hotels in Bangalore, Mysore, and Hampi that fit your budget and comfort requirements.
Best Way to Reach:
Buses or trains within Karnataka cost about $10-30.
Best Food:
Karnataka’s cuisine includes Masala Dosa, Mysore Pak, and Bisi Bele Bath.
Culture and Heritage:
Karnataka has a rich cultural heritage with classical dance and music forms like Bharatanatyam and Carnatic music. The state’s crafts, such as Mysore silk and sandalwood carvings, are renowned.
Key Highlights:
Kerala is known for its backwaters, serene beaches, and lush greenery. Cochin offers a mix of modernity and history with attractions like Fort Kochi and the Chinese Fishing Nets. Munnar, a hill station, is famous for its tea plantations and scenic beauty. Alleppey, known as the “Venice of the East,” offers houseboat cruises through the backwaters.
Stay:
Stay in hotels and houseboats for a unique experience.
Best Food:
Kerala’s cuisine is diverse, featuring dishes like Appam with Stew, Kerala Sadya (a traditional feast), and Puttu (steamed rice cakes).
Culture and Heritage:
Kerala is known for its classical form of dance like Kathakali and Mohiniyattam, as well as its traditional martial art, Kalaripayattu. The state’s festivals, such as Onam and Vishu, are celebrated with grandeur.
Key Highlights:
Chennai, the capital, offers attractions like Marina Beach, Fort St. George, and Kapaleeshwarar Temple are some of the top places to visit in chennai. Madurai is famous for the Meenakshi Amman Temple, a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture. Rameswaram is a major pilgrimage site known for its Ramanathaswamy Temple and the nearby Dhanushkodi.
Stay:
Find budget to mid-range hotels in Chennai, Madurai, and Rameswaram.
Best Way to Reach:
Travel within Tamil Nadu costs about $10-20.
Best Food:
Enjoy South Indian dishes like Idli, Dosa, and Chettinad Chicken.
Culture and Heritage:
Tamil Nadu is rich in Dravidian history and culture, with classical music (Carnatic) and dance (Bharatanatyam) playing a significant role. The state’s temples are architectural marvels, and its festivals, like Pongal, are celebrated with enthusiasm.
Key Highlights:
Kanyakumari is known for its unique and great geographical location where Indian Ocean, Arabian Sea, and Bay of Bengal meet. The Vivekananda Memorial and Thiruvalluvar Statue are prominent landmarks. The sunrise and sunset beach views are spectacular.
Best Way to Reach:
Reach Kanyakumari by train or bus.
Best Food:
Kanyakumari’s cuisine features South Indian Thali and fresh seafood.
Culture and Heritage:
Kanyakumari is known for its spiritual significance and scenic beauty. The region’s culture is influenced by its coastal location, with vibrant local traditions and festivals.
Embarking on a journey from Kashmir to Kanyakumari offers a rich tapestry of experiences, highlighting India’s diverse cultures, cuisines, and landscapes. This incredible journey across India, from the snow-capped mountains of Kashmir to the tropical shores of Kanyakumari, showcases the true essence of India’s cultural, historical, and natural beauty.
