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!
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Don’t keep yourself hanged up because your friends are too busy to plan out the New Year’s Eve. We have made the work easier. Find some of the coolest events in and around your city happening this New Year and if this list doesn’t satisfy you, we’ve got more lined up. Food and party to solitude and nature, there are events for all kinds of people.
Glow your New Year at these Bangalore Events:
CountDown NYT-2018:
Countdown to New Year at I V Sanctum, Race Course. Sia Entertainments offers food and fun along with fireworks, liquors and drinks, buffet dinner and lots of photographs. With all the entertainment, they also take care of security and first aid and provide the drop-in facility.
Bengaluru Food Festival:
Foodies, the best way to say goodbye to 2017 and the welcome new year would be enjoying it with food. Check in to New Horizon Ground on the last weekend of this year to have your taste buds taste the exquisite flavors. Bring along your foodie friends and enjoy the time relishing the past year.
Narasimha Parvatha Trek & Udupi Beach:
This New Year lets your nomad soul scream to its fullest at Narasimha Parvatha, the tallest peak in Agumbe Ghats, an awesome trek for that craving solitude.
Muddie Trails heartfully invites you to this unique and wonderful combination of mountains, wilderness, waterfalls, and beaches! Explore the lands and live between nature.
New Year 2018 in Thailand (Bangkok - Phuket):
Mr. Traveler has planned your New Year in the lands far away - Thailand.
Celebrate NEW YEAR 2018 in Thailand with amazing certified tour @ INR 29,990 + Flight. It is included with a bunch of tours that will rock your new year and will give you an experience of the lifetime.
New Year Party at Kaveri river:
Nature calls your inner nomad as you say goodbye to 2017. Caught up in the hectic schedule of studies and work? Now is the time to relish the moment. Escape the city and spend an amazing day amidst nature. Dance and sing to the beats of nature. Eat foodalicious barbecue and socialize at the campfire in the chilling winter weather. Camp your nights in between mountains and rivers. Swim your fears away and rest in village huts. Gaze at the stars and relive the forest child moments. Waiting to spot a shooting star to grant your traveling wish? There’s no need. This is it.
Dhaatu International Puppet Festival:
Bring out the child in you or bring your children along, this puppet show is for all ages. Dhaatu International Puppet Show at Bangalore.
Panache - New Year's Eve 2018:
The Luxurious JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru has planned a star-studded lineup of acts, premium liquor, and unlimited F&B to celebrate the New Year’s Eve. Are they forgetting something? No, they have got all the things well covered! Bring out your inner party animal because this is the time to dance off and have a blast.
Bangalore, this is a glimpse of all the good things that will be happening soon. Grab your spot and treat yourself, the time of year has come to enjoy hard and make it happen. Did not find any event of your genre? There are many more events lined up; check out events in Bangalore events for New Year. And do not forget to RSVP yourself and your friends.
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Are you planning for your next tour or Agra? Agra, the abode of love, is not only a historical place but also it is proud to have the 7th wonder of the world. Most of the people who have visited this place will tell you that it leaves you with the most memorable moments in life.
Visiting the place is not confined to see the Taj Mahal because there are lots more to experience. You just have to plan for your time well so that you can get the most from your Agra visit. If you are not careful, you may not even see 50% of what the region has to offer because it has too much.
The city has its own aura which is significantly outstanding. Agra holds its heritage intensely and its one of the things you will enjoy while interacting with the locals. The architecture and culture of the place had spectated and narrates tales of long driven history.
Time has made a significant mark which made the place exceptional for people who love tourism, archaeology, food etc. This article will share with you some of the must-visit places while touring Agra. You will discover that going to this destination is one of the best decisions that you can make in life.
Places to Visit in Agra:
As mentioned above, Agra is not the place to visit Taj Mahal alone. There are a lot of other attractions to visit and things to do. It is definitely not a one night stop place. You have to give yourself a few days if you want to get the best that the region has to offer to the visitors.
It is a whole individual tourist destination with a high degree of exploration. Coordinating with the local tour operators in Agra will help you to enjoy the city’s true spirit. The most important thing is to get the best experience while touring Agra.
It will be a good way to get the most value for your time and money. You don’t want to undertake a trip that will be a waste of your money and other valuable resources. Here are some of the top places and things to do in Agra;
1. Taj Mahal
The monument that stands for true love is surely Taj. It is one of the most-visited places in Agra because of its natural beauty. Taj Mahal was built in 1653 by Shah Jahan. He constructed it in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz. The building houses the tomb of not only her but also the emperor himself.
The structure is constructed using white marbles, gems, crystals and many more. These are some of the most valuable construction materials in the world. The mausoleum is surrounded by huge, well paved, maintained and eye-pleasing garden. It is a destination that is quite pleasing to the eyes.
River Yamuna flowing beside it definitely add the toppings of a memorandum of everlasting romance. You will get to enjoy the pleasant atmosphere that comes as a result of the presence of the river. It is a site that is truly pleasing to the eyes.
UNESCO has credited it as World Heritage Site in 1983. It shows you the true value that the Taj Mahal has to offer to the visitors. You cannot expect such accreditation for a destination that is not worth it.
The masterpiece truly is the jewel of Mughal architecture and a symbol of India’s rich history. You should not forget to include this on your tour list if you want to get the best that the region has to offer to the visitors.
2. Agra Fort
Agra Fort is another UNESCO credited World Heritage Site. If you come across anyone who has visited Agra, he will tell you that it is one of the must-visit places. Agra was the capital city of Mughal India till 1638.
The fort was the residence of the then emperors. It is a good place if you want to get a glimpse of the history of Agra. Stepping into this building will give you some of the best experiences that you can get from a tour.
The fort had gained its glory due to renovation through the reigns of Akbar and Shah Jahan. The fort is more likely described as the walled city. The red sandstone fort has interesting aspects all make Agra Fort a pleasant site to visit.
There are lots of fascinating rooms, pearl mosque, gem mosque, peacock throne, bathing bowl, a room of mirrors etc. All these are some of the beautiful sceneries you will get to view while visiting Fort Agra. Don’t deny yourself a chance of getting to this place while on your Agra tour.
3. Fatehpur Sikri
The city tells the tale of Akbar’s architectural finesse. This town, predominantly made of red sandstone, was once the capital of Emperor Akbar.
For tourists, the place has forts and mahals that can make you feel amazed. Due to the scarcity of water, the city was abandoned.
Despite lack of water, the city holds its rich architecture and heritage that is ought to be applauded.
4. Tomb Of Itimad-Ud-Daulah
The mausoleum is a definite place to visit. The tomb is the exclusive piece of Mughal architecture but it holds a significant difference. Fatehpur Sikri is one of the best inclusions while on your tour to Agra. You cannot tell history well when you have this site excluded from your travel list.
It is much different from the period of Humayun’s and Akbar’s Mughal architectural type. Built by Noor Jahan, wife of Jahangir, the structure is very similar to Taj Mahal and is often referred to as Baby Taj. It carries a lot of value when you are on an Agra tour.
River Yamuna flows near the mausoleum adding more natural beauty to it. Though most of the inlay works are damaged due to environmental factors, Fatehpur Sikri is famous for the marble lattice screen. Therefore, it is good to include it on your tour list if you want to get the best experience from Agra.
5. City Shopping
Agra will never disappoint you by simply showing you places. It has some of the most amazing tourist attraction sites that have so much to do. You can spend an entire day hopping to various shops in the city streets.
From food, clothing, footwears, jewelleries, bags to carpets and what not the city holds for its guests. Tourists get mesmerised by seeing the fine products available at such minimal rates. It means that you will have so much to take back home as long as you carry some cash.
For people who loves food, Agra will provide you the richest cuisines made by excellent quality spices and other ingredients. The city shopping gives you a great opportunity to carry some amazing gifts to your loved ones. Make sure you have a shopping budget lest you get the disappointments of having nothing to carry back home.
6. Tips For Taj Mahal Visit
Trip in India is pretty incomplete without visiting the magnificent Taj Mahal. It must contain in your itinerary. It is one of the places that you must visit while heading to India.
This international wonder structure is spectated by millions of visitors every year. Here are some tips that you must keep in mind to make the most of your trip.
Get some brief idea regarding the place by reading a lot about the destination. It will give you a rough idea regarding what to see and explore in Taj Mahal. It is not good to visit Taj Mahal without prior knowledge about what the region has to offer.
The place opens at 6AM for the visitors. Enter through the east gate to watch and feel the purity of true love when the sun rays kisses the marble stones of the mausoleum. There is so much that is pleasing to the eyes in this destination.
There are different entry gates. The nationals shall pay Rs. 20 per person and foreigners shall pay Rs. 750 per person. However, Taj Mahal will give you the value for your money.
Make sure your tummy is full during your visit to the place. Nobody is allowed to bring snacks or food inside the campus.
The place is no doubt always beautiful at any season. But, for your convenience, it is better to choose winters as Agra gets hotter in summers. It will give you a conducive environment of touring the region.
West side of Taj Mahal can create interesting photo frames. Be patient to take some really great snaps as Taj is always crowded with visitors. Plan enough time to visit this area so that you are not in a hurry to leave.
Lastly, you must go for a full moon night tour in Taj Mahal. It was constructed with pristine translucent marbles. When you are inside Taj you can actually see the shimmer of the moonlight due to the marbles. It is one of the best experiences on your Agra tour.
Agra is one of a kind place. Visiting and exploring it will definitely make a lifetime experience. Plan a memorable tour of the place for an enchanting life moment. We wish you have a happening tour to not only Agra but Taj Mahal too.
To get the best from your Agra tour, get a reputable tour and travel agency to take you through the trip. You will not miss even a single opportunity from what you travel has to offer.
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