India has always attracted travellers searching for
something – whether it's spiritual guidance,
exotic wonders, self-discovery, or (increasingly) a
luxurious break. It's best to travel in the cooler
months, from October through to March. Read on for our
top 5 things to do in India
.
Visit Rajasthan
Possibly the most beautiful state in India,
Rajasthan's landscape is incredibly varied, from sand
dunes to stunning beaches to lush forests. If you want to
rough it, take a safari on the back of a camel or elephant.
Or, make like a Maharajah and check into the Taj Lake Palace
in Udaipur, a mirage-like white marble palace in the middle
of Lake Pichola.
Go Goa
The tiny state of Goa on India's west coast is famed
for its beaches, temples and world heritage architecture.
Conquered by Portuguese merchants in the 16
th
century and only handed back in 1961, Goa is all the richer
for this melding of cultures in its people, relaxed
lifestyle and, most importantly, food.
Taj Mahal, Agra
You'll know the Taj Mahal from countless photographs,
but seeing it up close and in the flesh is extraordinary.
One of the wonders of the modern world, and the
planet's grandest mausoleum, the Taj Mahal is a
testament to the love of Shah Jahan for his wife, whose tomb
lies underneath the central 35 metre high dome
Diwali - The Festival of Light
Diwali is celebrated all over the country on the new moon at
the end of October. A shortening of the Sanskrit word
'Deepavali', meaning 'rows of lights', the festival marks
change and hope, and is the beginning of the new financial
year. Over five days, tens of thousands of lamps are lit on
the roofs and windowsills of houses, and floated into
rivers. Spectacular fireworks displays form the highlight of
the festival.
Hang out on a Bollywood film set
The average Bollywood film is a lurid mix of action, music,
dance and romance - the story itself isn't so
important. Films are vital entertainment all over India, and
the industry in Mumbai produces more films than Hollywood. A
visit to a Bollywood studio is worth organizing in advance.
Watching busy technicians and actors moving between multiple
sets is a chaotic and fun experience. Contact the public
relations office of any of the major studios in Mumbai
before you leave.
Always purchase holiday insurance before leaving for your trip.
