If you are traveling to India for the first time, you’ll for sure feel a little bit overwhelmed, confused and excited at the same time. Adjusting to the culture shock, frenetic energy and diversity will take some time. But worry not, once you get used to the Indian ways, you’ll develop a special bond with this place that will urge you to come back again and again.
If you are travelling to India, here are a few facts about India to keep in mind before and while you are on your trip:
Craziest Things To Know If You Are Traveling To India For The First Time
Indian travel reaches a new high in the first quarter of 2024. Indian airports have enjoyed the footfall of around 376 million passengers. Further, 69.6 million in this traffic were international passengers.
Moreover, the numbers show a massive improvement compared to 2019. Also, there is a 15% growth from the records in 2023. These numbers show why traveling in India is so huge this year.
So, it is no surprise that you are planning a trip to India this year. Is this the first time for you to visit this land of spirituality? Keep some smart tips handy to avoid travel hassles.
1. EXPLORE A PLACE AND TAKE YOUR TIME
When you are traveling to India for the first time, don’t hop from one place to another too soon because then you won’t really get a feel of the real India and experience the place deeply.
Take your time with a place. Stay there for a few days. Also, visit different sites in that place, get to know the local people and traditions of the place, and relish the experience.
For example, if you go to Kerala in South India, then stay there for at least 9 -10 days, exploring the local food and culture and different festivals.Many top-notch yoga retreats in India are also held in Kerala. If you want to experience the true spiritual gift of India, that is, yoga and meditation, you can attend a yoga and meditation retreat or a yoga teacher training course in one of the best yoga schools in Kerala.
2. EXPLORE MORE THAN JUST THE CITIES
The real beauty of India lies not only in the cities of India but also in the cities in the natural world.
The forests, the majestic mountains, the motherly rivers, the gorgeous oceans, the pristine beaches, and the divine landscapes will surely give you the experience of a lifetime.
Travel to the Himalayas in north India, the beaches of south India, the Western Ghats, and the Mangrove forests in the east and experience a deeper connection with Mother Nature.
3. DRESS ACCORDINGLY
In most parts of India, the dress code is Indian sarees and traditional Indian clothes though many people in the cities wear western clothing as well.
Please wear clothes that cover your body appropriately, especially when you are visiting the rural parts of India, temples, mosques, etc.
It is also a custom in India to open your shoes outside while visiting a temple or a religious site.
4. RESPECT THE INDIAN PEOPLE AND THE INDIAN CULTURE
Most Indians are very warm-hearted, which is truly one of the best qualities of Indian people. They are welcoming and love it when people from around the world visit the country.
Be respectful to the Indian people and Indian culture.
The Indian people will greet you with warmth and acceptance. Make sure you can be humble and return the same.
5. BE PREPARED TO EXPLORE DEEP SPIRITUALITY
One of the most well-known facts about India is that it is the origin of yoga and meditation. Many top-level yoga and meditation schools offer yoga retreats in India.
If you genuinely want to feel the deep spiritual connection of India and want to learn the ancient art of yoga and meditation, then you can enroll yourself in one of the best yoga schools in India.
Some of the best yoga schools of India are in Kerala in South India and Rishikesh in North Indian at the foothills of the Himalayan Mountains.
6. KEEP AN OPEN MIND
Keeping an open mind is a great way to travel the land of India as you will see things that you did not expect to, like children asking for food while you are stuck in traffic.
“In the 2023 Global Hunger Index, India ranks 111th out of the 125 countries with sufficient data to calculate 2023 GHI scores. With a score of 28.7 in the 2023 Global Hunger Index, India has a level of hunger that is serious.”
7. AVOID PDA
Avoid public displays of affection towards your partners, as this is not a common thing in the culture of India. Avoid kissing and excess public display of affection as a respect for the Indian culture
8. TRY OUT THE INDIAN FOOD
You will find all kinds of foods, dishes, and cuisines in India that will relish your taste buds. You can try out the North Indian dishes, the south Indian dishes, and the local food of whichever place you travel to.
Be mindful of the water you are consuming and make sure it is purified. Most places have clean water to drink, but it is advised to be mindful.
9. GET A SIM CARD
Getting a sim card would be helpful as you can use the internet to have easy navigation through the landscapes of India. A sim card will allow you to navigate google maps, best restaurants, and make calls to your home country.
Though only Indians can buy a SIM card in India, you can ask your trusted Indian friend to buy you a SIM card. There are also special provisions for sim cards for foreigners.
10. UNDERSTAND THE UNSPOKEN INDIAN LANGUAGE
Indians communicate a lot without words and just simple hand gestures or head nods. The classic Indian head nod is one of the most common communication methods in India. Usually, it means yes or no, depending on the context.
Understanding the unspoken Indian language can make your trip interesting and can be helpful too.
11. BEWARE OF PICKPOCKETS
While this advice applies to many places around the globe, it is always a good idea to keep your cash, cards, and belongings safe, especially in the populated cities of India.
12. FIND A TRUSTWORTHY INDIAN FRIEND WHO CAN GUIDE YOU
It is also wise to have a trustworthy Indian friend who can help you out in a foreign country and guide you in case you are confused about something.
Knowing someone trustworthy and intelligent in India who can help out is also an advantage.
13. DO YOUR RESEARCH
Do a good in-depth research of India and the places that call out to you the most in India. India is a vast country, and it is not advised to cover the whole country in one short trip.
Do your research and see which places you feel the most drawn to and then make a detailed itinerary of your trip.
14. KEEP YOUR CALM
Scamsters, touts, etc. often target foreigners to make some quick bucks by simply luring them with good deals which are not in fact, good deals. You’ll come across different people (agents, cab drivers, etc.) who’ll insist on giving you the best deals (maybe hotel charges, tour packages). But don’t lose your head over these things. Simply keep your calm and try to show them that you know better. Slowly you’ll learn the tricks to handle such people.
15. DON’T HESITATE TO BARGAIN
Indian markets are colorful and have some beautiful things like leather bags, clothes, artifacts, and so much more that you can buy. However, some shop keepers give a higher price to those traveling from another country.
Don’t be afraid to bargain and get a reasonable price for your purchase. Sharpen your bargaining skills and have fun with it.
Is India Safe To Travel For Women? (Most) Important Things To Know Before Traveling To India For The First Time
As I write this article, the cry of #JusticeforRGKar becomes more prominent to me. A month has passed since the rape and murder of a lady PG doctor of the Pulmonology department in the R G Kar Medical College and Hospital. Kolkata is the capital city of West Bengal, a state in the eastern part of India.
There is still a protest going on, and people from all walks of life are participating in it with a suspicion of state machinery’s involvement in the case. Further, it aches my heart, but I have to mention that Delhi experienced one of the heinous acts of rape and murder a few years back in the form of the Nirbhaya case.
People across borders are aware of these incidents today. So, the question of women’s safety while traveling to India is obvious. Further, if we look at the Booking.com travel predictions for 2024, we can see that 54% of women will likely embrace solo travel instead of a couple or group trip.
Nevertheless, let’s get back to the question here, and allow me to assure you that India is fairly safe for women travelers.
The data from the “National Commission for Women” and “National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB)” are not-so-pleasing. I don’t want to share the figures, either! However, the women-only travel groups are making it easier for every woman traveling to India for the first time or even for the 100th time.
The WOW Club, or Women on Wanderlust, and Women On Clouds Club, or WOC, are two of the most popular women-only travel groups in India. So, as Hannah goes for a girl trip with her mother in “Girls,” get ready for traveling to India for the first time!
Abdul Aziz Mondol is a professional blogger who is having a colossal interest in writing blogs and other jones of calligraphies. In terms of his professional commitments, he loves to share content related to business, finance, technology, and the gaming niche.
In the heart of India, amidst the city of Agra, stands an architectural wonder that has captured the imaginations of tens of millions around the world. The Taj Mahal, regularly dubbed the "Crown Jewel of India," isn't just a monument; it's a symbol of everlasting love, architectural brilliance, as well as cultural importance.
With its mesmerizing splendor, the Taj Mahal has earned its reputation as the maximum popular monument in the international. In this article, we will discover the motives at the back of its iconic repute as well as provide insights into planning a taj mahal tour package to this breathtaking masterpiece.
1. A Monument Of Love
The Taj Mahal's profound reputation begins with its compelling love tale. Built by emperor Shah Jahan in remembrance of his spouse, Mumtaz Mahal, the monument is a testimony to enduring love. This romantic narrative has frequent attraction and attracts site visitors from all walks of life who are moved by the tale of love and loss.
2. Architectural Grandeur
One look at the Taj Mahal becomes obtrusive as to why it reigns as a worldwide architectural icon. Its lovely symmetry, tricky marble inlays, and ethereal white domes make it a masterpiece of Mughal structure. The Taj's unheard-of splendor and meticulous craftsmanship leave site visitors in awe, earning its rightful vicinity as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
3. Cultural Significance
The Taj Mahal is deeply ingrained in India's rich cultural heritage. It represents the Mughal structure's zenith and symbolizes the kingdom's artistic as well as cultural prowess. Its inclusion within the "Seven Wonders of the World" list has also elevated its status and made it a must-visit vacation worldwide.
4. Spectacular Setting
Situated on the banks of the Yamuna River, the Taj Mahal is ready against a picturesque backdrop that complements its allure. The mirrored image of the monument within the river's tranquil waters creates a mesmerizing scene that photographers and artists discover impossible to resist.
5. Timeless Beauty
The Taj Mahal's splendor transcends time as well as seasons. It captivates visitors at some point of dawn, while the tender colors of the sunrise shower it with a gentle, rose-tinted glow, and at sunset, the placing sun lends it a warm, golden charisma. Its ethereal allure is equally enthralling beneath the moon's light, supplying traffic with a unique nocturnal enjoyment.
6. Icon of Peace and Harmony
Beyond its architectural splendor, the Taj Mahal includes a team spirit as well as a concord message. Its production involved artisans and craftsmen from numerous cultural backgrounds, reflecting India's age-antique way of life of inclusivity. The monument serves as a symbol of religious tolerance as well as multicultural coexistence.
7. Planning Your Visit
Now that we've explored why the Taj Mahal is the world's maximum famous monument, here are some practical guidelines for making plans for your visit:
8. Timing Matters
The Taj Mahal can get crowded, so plan to reach early in the morning to conquer the crowds and revel in the tranquil environment. Sunrise is a super time to witness its mesmerizing splendor.
9. Tickets And Entry
Purchase your tickets in advance to avoid lengthy queues at the price ticket counters. There are exclusive ticket options, together with dawn and sunset visits, so pick the one that fits your desire.
Conclusion
The Taj Mahal's enduring popularity is due to its beautiful love tale, architectural elegance, cultural importance, as well as picturesque putting. It is a monument that transcends time, serving as a symbol of affection, splendor, as well as concord. Planning a Taj Mahal tour from Delhi is a journey into the coronary heart of India's wealthy history and the risk of witnessing a real marvel of the sector.
So, pack your luggage, put it together to be enchanted, immerse yourself in the royal charm of the Taj Mahal, and enjoy it so that it will live with you for your entire life. If you have thoughts to share, then please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you!
Read Also:
6 Best Family Holiday Destinations In India
Which Is The Best Time To Visit Auli? – Travel Guide
Top 7 Best Places To Visit In Darjeeling – Travel Guide
Viaan Patel from Vadodara, Gujarat, a young boy, aged nine, has made India proud after climbing the 14,000 ft. Gadsar Pass located in the Himalayas. He has now become the youngest in Gujarat to achieve this.
Inspired by his father, who has climbed many mountains like Mount Abu and Pavagadh, Viaan started climbing mountains from a very young age. He started accompanying his father when he was just two years old.
In a conversation with Times of India, Viaan mentioned it was
one of the best experiences I ever had. I had never climbed to such a height, so there were some nervous moments.
It is only natural for a boy of such a young age to be scared about this difficult trek. "But I was confident of reaching the peak and I did it," he added.
This pass is one of the most difficult, as well as the most dreamed of treks. However, only a few people have reached such a high altitude.
Read Also:
Exploring The Unexplored: Which Is The Best Time To Visit Darjeeling?What Are The Places To Visit In Meghalaya? – Travel GuideTop 5 Best Tourist Places In Coimbatore – Travel Guide
By recent estimates, about 40 people are killed, and many are still missing due to the heavy rain and flash floods. For the past three days, these flash floods are triggered by heavy monsoon clouds.
The flood and rain washed hundreds of villages, mud houses, bridges and roads in places of Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh.
More heavy rain is predicted for the next two days, predicted by the Indian Meteorological Department. In the state of Himachal Pradesh, 36 people were killed, and more than hundreds of people were taken to relief camps.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MV3wPNQqVpM
In Uttarakhand, after a series of cloud bursts, 4 people died, and more than 13 people went missing. Ranjit Kumar Sinha of Uttarakhand’s disaster management department said,
We have deployed choppers to rescue people who are stuck in remote areas due to rain-related incidents. The rescue operation is in full swing.
Floods and landslides have become common in the Northern part of India during the monsoon months. Last year, during flash floods, at least 200 people were either killed or washed away by the rain in Uttarakhand.
Read Also:
6 Best Family Holiday Destinations In India
Which Is The Best Time To Visit Auli? – Travel Guide
Top 7 Best Places To Visit In Darjeeling – Travel Guide
Related
