25 Amazing Things To Do In Ladakh| Ladakh Travel Guide

Jun 5, 2017

Last Updated on: Nov 18, 2024

India

If you come across arid, jagged mountains kissing the skies, you know it’s Ladakh. Further, here, the dry winds seem to carry spiritual messages with them. Further, the ancient gompas (Tibetan monasteries), with their whitewashed walls, are repositories of solitude and knowledge. The pristine waters of the lakes here create a perfect impression of the encompassing surroundings.

Once in Ladakh, there is so much to see and so much to explore, from pure blue freshwater lakes to picturesque passes, from dreamy valleys to frozen rivers. So, one must prepare oneself for a kaleidoscope of experiences here. 

Have you recently decided to take a trip to Ladakh? This blog brings you the 25 amazing things to do in Ladakh.

25 Amazing Things to do in Ladakh:

In South Asia’s Travel & Tourism Exchange (SATTE) held between 22nd and 24th February 2024, Ladakh has been promoted as an all-weather tourist spot. 

Visit this wonderland in any season, and you have something to do to fulfill your outdoor pursuits. 

1. Sunrise at Pangong Tso Lake!

Witnessing the sky streaked red by the morning sun can be an exhilarating experience. Doing the same by Pangong Tso Lake embellishes the experience further. 

This spectacular lake made its appearance in the movie “3 Idiots.” Apart from that, it’s a highly coveted spot for late-night camping.

2. Biking on the World’s Highest Motorable Road!

Biking on the World’s Highest Motorable Road

Imagine biking at Khardung La – one of the world’s highest motorable roads with a height of 18,380ft. You can plan a bike trip to this place from any city in India, or arrive at Leh, and book a bike there. 

There are several holiday packages for Ladakh trip. Choose any one of your linking.

3. Camping delights!

Camping delights

Another way of absorbing the alluring beauty of Ladakh is going camping. Some of the best camping sites are found at Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri. 

Camping by the lakes, one of the best things to do in Ladakh, is the best way to explore the surrounding landscapes and carry home some great memories.

4. Go Trekking

Go Trekking

One of the best manners of exploring the scenic landscapes of Ladakh is trekking. Be it the winter season or the summer season, trekking provides you with an outstanding experience. 

Some of the most popular trekking routes here are Chadar, Stok Kangri, Tso Moriri, and Markha Valley.

5. Go river rafting!

Struggling against the forceful rapids always gives you that ultimate adrenaline rush. No wonder then that river rafting is a favorite amongst tourists to Ladakh. 

Nothing is more adventurous than fighting your way against the freezing waters of the Zanskar River. Along the way, you are treated to the magnificent sights of hilltop monasteries, hillside villages and glimpses of the unique wildlife.

6. Take the Ride-on Double Bactrian camel!

Take the Ride-on Double Bactrian camel

The thrill of taking a ride on a double-humped Bactrian camel is simply indescribable. The place to do this would be the Nubra Valley, located at 12,000ft above sea level. 

This wonderful wobbly ride takes you through the various landscapes of the region. This is the ride of a lifetime, making it one of the most amazing things to do in Ladakh!

7. Look, a snow leopard!

Look, a snow leopard

Spotting a snow leopard is a real privilege. Further, these magnificent beasts, sporting white fur, camouflage themselves with the environs as they patiently wait for their prey. 

One of the best places to view these lovely creatures is the Hemis National Park. This park is home to more than 200 snow leopards and is best visited during winter.

8. Explore Buddhist Monasteries!

Explore Buddhist Monasteries

The various monasteries in Ladakh are some of the most ancient ones in the world. As such, they are a repertoire of knowledge and wisdom. One of the oldest monasteries in Ladakh is the Spituk Monastery. 

It also enjoys a fabulous location and offers panoramic views of the surroundings. Another monastery worth checking out is Hemis Monastery. Besides being the biggest in all of Ladakh, it also hosts the famous Hemis Festival in June every year.

9. The Royal side of Ladakh!

The Royal side of Ladakh

The magnificent Leh Palace lies in a dilapidated state in this day and age. However, its grandeur is still reflected in its wood and stone ruins. It is often visited by history and architecture enthusiasts. 

Built by King Namgyal in the 17th century, this building is nine stories high. One can get panoramic views of the Zanskar and Stok Kangri ranges that traverse the Indus Valley.

10. Opt for a homestay!

A great way to get acquainted with the culture of Ladakh is by opting for a homestay. Try to get in touch with a local family. 

The warm-hearted people will host you with great zeal and enthusiasm. Enjoy a drink of butter tea, taste some delicious momos (dumplings), and have a great time.

11. Gaze at the starlit sky!

Gaze at the starlit sky

When it comes to certified stargazing in India, nothing beats Ladakh! Engaging in stargazing here transports you to the world of stars and comets. 

The infinite sky, glistening with stars, casts a magical spell on the onlooker. In Ladakh, the best place to do this is the Nubra Valley.

12. The Mysterious Magnetic Hill!

The Mysterious Magnetic Hill

Ever heard of a car ascending without any external force being applied to it? Don’t be shocked; defying the laws of physics is a common experience here. 

The Magnetic Hill, as it’s commonly referred to, pulls a car or a bike towards the peak. The reasons behind this occurrence are as yet unknown. However, it’s worth giving it a try!

13. River of opportunity!

River of opportunity

One of the top things to do in Ladakh is to watch the confluence of the Indus and Zanskar rivers. The frozen Zanskar River presents tremendous trekking opportunities during winter.

Also known as Chadar Trek, it’s a favorite among adventure seekers. The surreal beauty of the icy world enveloping you throughout the trek leaves you overwhelmed.

14. Sipping Tea at the World’s highest Cafeteria

A board stating the benefits of drinking black tea welcomes you to the Rinchen Cafeteria. Located at an altitude of 18,380ft, momos, and Maggi are also served along with tea. 

This wonderful cafe has been named after Col. Rinchen for seizing Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Once here, check out the various stories, paintings, and quotes by the Army.

15. Piping hot Maggie at High Altitude!

Nothing beats the taste of piping hot Maggi at high altitudes. After a tiresome journey that leaves you exhausted, this humble meal is a blessing. 

One of the best places to experience this treat is Khardung La. Here, not only do you enjoy the meal, but you discover a fascinating history associated with it.

16. Participate in the Mask Festival!

Participate in the Mask Festival

Hemis Mask Dance Festival is one of the famous festivals in Ladakh. This colorful and vibrant festival takes place every year at Hemis Gompa, the biggest monastery in Ladakh. 

The main attractions are the mask parade and the “Chaam” dance. Here, the Lamas put on a spectacle with their burgundy and mustard yellow attires

17. Attend a Ladakhi Wedding!

A wedding in Ladakh is quite a solemn affair. However, the various rituals associated with it are every bit as interesting. The couple wears ceremonial dresses while the guests, seated on small tables, are served butter tea. 

Traditional songs are played, and dance goes on for hours. “Chang,” the local alcohol is served, and everyone joins in the festivities.

18. Ladakh’s local delicacies!

Ladakh’s local delicacies

Ladakh’s cuisine is the result of an innovative twist to Kashmiri cuisine. One of them is the delicious stew, which contains a wonderful combination of ingredients like rice, noodles, momos, Thukpa, etc. 

One should also try the Yak Cheese and the Yak Cheese momos here. Of course, no meal is complete without trying the local butter tea.

19. Meditate by the famous lakes!

Lakes in Ladakh enchant visitors with their breathtaking beauty. They are known as “Tso.” Pangong Tso, which means “long and narrow lake,” is the highest saltwater lake in the world. 

Tso Kar and Tso Moriri are two famous lakes. Mirpal Tso attracts travelers with its sandy bed and turquoise waters.

20. Pleasures of bird watching!

Pleasures of bird watching

The enormous and arid landscape of Ladakh is a haven for diverse avifauna. This region has various species of birds as visitors. Further, many of them are endangered. 

The amazing solitude makes bird watching in Ladakh a perfectly blissful activity. Bird watching is popular in Suru Valley, Rizong Monastery, and Nubra Valley, among others.

21. Pray Some, Spin Some!

Pray Some, Spin Some

Ladakh has several monasteries that are as charming as they are fascinating. A visit to any of them is sure to leave you with great memories. 

One of the prime activities to do in a monastery is to spin a prayer well. Spinning the prayer wheel, according to Buddhist traditions, ushers in good luck. So, when in Ladakh, spin that wheel!

22. Mingle with monks!

Mingle with monks

One of the great attractions of visiting the monasteries is mingling with the monks. Saffron-clad and bald, they possess a wealth of knowledge with a good dose of humor. 

Request them humbly, and you may just be in for a session of fascinating tales and stories.

23. Make-a-wish stones

Make-a-wish stones

Since the beginning of history, stone stacking has been followed by making a wish. During earlier ages, they served the roles of messengers, signs, and landmarks. 

The locals, however, believe that stacking stones brings good luck to travelers. Stack some stones, and make a wish! It’s time for manifestation.

24. Shop in the Local Markets to Carry Memories of the Ladakh Trip!

Shopping takes an exciting turn in the Ladakh markets. It’s the best place for mingling with the locals and learning various aspects of their culture. 

Further, the streets have numerous stalls that display exotic items. From hand-woven rugs, wall hangings, and wicker baskets to woolen bags, one finds it all here!

25. Visit Leh City after sunset!

Visit Leh City after sunset

Sunsets in Leh City are unlike any other you may have come across. Here, the sun takes its own time to leisurely paint the sky red. 

One of the best places to witness the sunset here is Shanti Stupa. Also, bring your camera along and capture some great shots. Taking some photos here is one of the most amazing things to do in Ladakh. 

Exploring The First Stargazing Site For Tourists In India: Amazing Things To Do In Ladakh

Our list of top 25 things to do in Ladakh already has stargazing as an activity. However, the growing popularity of stargazing in Ladakh demands a detailed discussion about this fascinating outdoor pursuit. 

All eyes were especially on the Ladakh sky as the Aurora Borealis became visible in Ladakh, thanks to the most intense solar storm in more than two decades. In May 2024, a stable red arc filled the sky in Ladakh, and the engineers at the Hanle Dark Sky Reserve confirmed the arc to be stable, consistent, and lasting for hours. 

The appearance of the Aurora Borealis in Ladakh is a remarkable incident after Hanle Dark Sky Reserve was prepared as the first stargazing site in India in February 2023. 

The Hanle Dark Sky Reserve is located at an elevation of 4500 meters, and it’s at Han le village, made of six hamlets. 

However, along the Hanle Dark Sky Reserve, there are many other places in Ladakh for stargazing. Know them before you plan a trip to Ladakh.

  1. Pangong Lake
  2. Alchi
  3. Lamayuru
  4. Tso Moriri
  5. Nubra Valley

For the best stargazing experience in Ladakh, you must plan a trip in the summer. The summer months from April to June offer the best sky visibility with pleasant weather conditions. Further, the full moon nights in these months dazzle the stars in the sky.

In fact, the full moon nights in summer are the best days to observe the Milky Way in the Ladakh Sky. 

So, if you want to try some truly unique things to do in Ladakh, include stargazing into your itinerary. 

Read also

Share on Social Media

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.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

title-img Related

READ MORE places to visit in Darjeeling

Top 7 Best Places To Visit In Darjeeling – Travel Guide

BY  Nabamita Jul 23, 2022

Welcome to the “Queen Of The Hills!” Darjeeling is one of the most beautiful hill stations in India. Hidden beneath the Lesser Himalayas, Darjeeling is an “abode of god.” Situated among the serenity of nature, it is a must places to visit in Darjeeling for some intoxicating time in nature’s lap. Travel Guide About Darjeeling NicknameThe Queen of the HillsDarjeeling Whole  Area3149 sq.kmLanguage SpokenNepali, Hindi, and BengaliPopular Places to VisitBatasia Loop, Tinchuley, Darjeeling Rock Garden,  Lepchajagat, Darjeeling Ropeway, Happy Valley Tea Estate, Tiger Hill, etc. Best Time to VisitApril-June to experience summer, October-January to experience winter. Popular Places to visit for couplesMirik, Love Road, Tiger Hill, Batasia Loop, Darjeeling Mall, Observatory Hill, Darjeeling Ropeway, Tea Gardens, Mahakal Temple, and Glenburn Estate. Top Religious Places Ghoom Monastery, St.Andrew’s Church,  Dali Monastery, Dhirdham Temple, Aloobari Monastery, etc.Top Things To DoTrekking, Shopping, River Rafting, Toy Tain Ride, Visit the Tea Garden, Camping, Explore the wildlife and flora, Mountaineering, etc. Darjeeling: Why Even Go There? Darjeeling is one of the biggest tourist destinations in India. Its natural beauty, perfect climate, and captivating mountain view are a few of the reasons to visit here. Darjeeling is a part of West Bengal and is located at a height of 2134 meters. It is a proud possession of West Bengal Tourism. The exotic flora, fauna, and chilly weather are a few reasons why it is named the “Queen of the Hills.” It is a perfect abode for trekkers and mountaineers. The view of the Kanchenjunga is spectacular from here. This spectacular view is what attracts a lot of tourists year-round in Darjeeling. However, Darjeeling has a lot more to offer tourists. From Darjeeling, you have access to most other hill stations such as Gangtok, Kalimpong, and many more. There are great places to visit in Gangtok, and Darjeeling is your starting point for that. Here is a list of the best places to visit in Darjeeling. 1. Himalayan Mountaineering Institute And Darjeeling Zoo The Himalayan Mountaineering Institute of Darjeeling is one of the best in the country. It exhibits the mountaineering gears from the early days along with certain artifacts. The Institute was built here in honor of Tenzing Norgay, a Sherpa who accompanied Sir Edmund Hillary to climb Mt. Everest. They were the first to climb the tallest mountain in the world for the 1st time in 1953. All the mountaineering gear that the men used is also here in the Institute itself. There are souvenirs and a restaurant here on the premises for the tourists. Located beside the Institute on the same premises is the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park. Here you can experience the best wildlife Darjeeling has to offer. Here you will find a number of exotic animals such as the Siberian Tiger, snow leopard, goral, Tibetan wolf, Himalayan black bear, and red panda. Timings: 8:30 am to 4:30 pm in Summer & 8:30 am to 4:00 pm in Winter. 2. Darjeeling Ropeway Opened in 1968, known as the Rangeet Valley Passenger Cable Car; from here, you can have the best view of Darjeeling. This was the first cable car system ever built in India. From the beautiful Tea Gardens to the majestic peak of the Kanchenjunga and the dense forest beneath it. You will be able to experience everything Darjeeling has to offer at once. Timings: 10:00am to 4:00pm (Winter and Monsoon), 10:00am to 2:00pm (Summer and Autumn). 3. Happy Valley Tea Estate Enjoy the lush greenery and the sweet taste of Darjeeling Tea. This is a 150 years old Tea Estate, one of the best places to visit in Darjeeling. Although this is only the second oldest tea estate in Darjeeling, built in 1854, situated 2100 meters above sea level. Timings: Tuesday to Saturday- 8:00 am to 4:00 pm. 4. Senchal Lake And Wildlife Sanctuary This is one of the oldest wildlife sanctuaries in India, set up in the year 1915. Situated about 11 kms away from Darjeeling town, it is a must-visit place in Darjeeling. Senchal Lake, which is situated within the wildlife, has the most beautiful picturesque view. For nature lovers and photographers, this is an ideal place. Here you will find a number of wildlife such as leopards, rhesus monkeys, and Himalayan black bears. Along with that, here, you will see a wide variety of exotic birds. 5. Shrubbery Nightingale Park If you are someone who loves flowers and exotic flora, then you must visit Shrubbery Nightingale Park. Here you will find beautiful flowers along with a majestic view of the Kanchenjunga mountain.  The park was totally destroyed during a massive earthquake in 1934; it was rebuilt to its former glory. It has pebblestone pathways, a musical fountain and benches to sit on. This park is among the best places to visit in Darjeeling. Timings: 8:00 am to 8:00 pm Blooming Seasons: October and November. 6. Dhirdham Temple Another gorgeous tourist attraction is the Dhirdham Temple; it is a Hindu temple in Nepalese style. This is located just below the Toy Train station. This temple was built by the King of Nepal, Purna Bahadur Pradhan, in the year 1936. The temple has the idol of Lord Shiva. The idol is of white color, and Shiva is represented to have various expressions with his third eye. This temple has the architectural design of the Pashupatinath Temple of Kathmandu. Aarti Timings: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm Note That: Inside the temple premises, cameras are not allowed. 7. Darjeeling Mall And Chowrasta At the heart of Darjeeling town are the Darjeeling Mall and the Chowrasta. This is one of the best places to visit in Darjeeling. It is the best places to hang out for both tourists and localities. Here you will find the best restaurants, shops, boutiques and cafes. This is a must-visit place in Darjeeling for anyone to visit. During the evening, you will find a lot of entertainment options here. Few of the best shops around here are Nathmulls Tea & Sunset Lounge, Curio Corner, Habeeb Mullick & Sons and the Jolly Arts & Bhutan Tibetan Art Shop. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): 1. What Are The Nearest Railway Station And Airport To Darjeeling? The nearest railway station to Darjeeling is Darjeeling Railway station and Siliguri Railway Station. And the nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport, located 70 km from Darjeeling. 2. What Is The Best Time To Plan A Holiday To Darjeeling? Depending on the season, you need to plan your trip here. If you are planning to visit during the summer for pleasant sightseeing you can visit from April-June.But if you are willing to experience the cold and with it wildlife, you can visit from October-December. 3. How Are The Accommodation Facilities For Tourists In Darjeeling? Darjeeling has a huge number of good quality accommodation facilities for tourists. No matter how you are traveling, big group, solo, as couple, or with family, there are options for all.From 5-star hotels to luxury resorts, pocket-friendly hotels, and even homestays, everything is present here in Darjeeling. Visit Now! Here I have pointed out the 7 best places in Darjeeling to visit, but there are more than 25 places to visit in Darjeeling, and Gangtok should be your next destination of choice. Darjeeling is a staple tourist destination for every Indian. It is the first place our parents took us to. It has a different emotion on my part. Read Also: Which Is The Best Time To Visit Auli? – Travel Guide Which Is The Largest Freshwater Lake In India? 10 Best Places To Visit In Sikkim

READ MORE

Offbeat Destinations Near Delhi Nobody Talks About | Delhi Travel Guide

BY  Abdul Aziz Oct 24, 2021

Dilwalon ka Shahar, or Delhi, is the microcosm of India. Every nook and alley here has people from different parts of the country. It is also home to iconic and historic monuments such as the Qutub Minar, Jama Masjid, Red Fort, and Rashtrapati Bhavan.  Further, Delhi has the famous Jawaharlal Nehru University, where the creme de la creme of the country study. Even taking a walk down the streets of Delhi and exploring its markets is a one-of-a-kind experience. The city, with many colors and moods, is like the tapestry of human lives in the country. So, no wonder you will find many offbeat destinations near Delhi, and you must get your bags ready!  Must-Visit Offbeat Destinations Near Delhi Are you a Delhite looking for a quick weekend escapade? Or do you want to explore the quaint soul of Delhi? Here are some lesser-known places near Delhi that you can include in your itinerary. 1. Dausa: Did you watch Christopher Nolan’s “The Dark Knight Rises”? Remember the ‘pit’? Head to Dausa, a quaint traditional village near Jaipur that is home to the bewildering step well that featured in the Hollywood flick. Even if you haven’t watched the movie, you got to visit Dausa, as the village also hosts historical marvels such as Bhadrawati Palace and Khawaraoji. Located just 258 km away from Delhi, it is one of the offbeat destinations near Delhi that you can visit even with a day’s off at work. 2. Pangot: Pangot is a charming hill town in Nainital and is birdwatcher’s trove. The place recorded around 580 bird species, and you never know how many you may encounter on a trip to this mini bird paradise. Adding to your bird watching experience will be the scenic beauty of the place and the gorgeous resorts. Drive 310 km to encounter a few fluttering colorful feathers and enjoy a worthwhile holiday in Pangot. 3. Kanatal: Kanatal is situated in between two of the most popular hill stations in the country, Mussoorie, and Chamba. If you want to enjoy peace and tranquility, then you should probably drive 317 km from Delhi to Kanatal, rather than stopping at any of the two commercial hill stations. In addition to the serenity, you can even experience adrenaline rush by participating in exciting adventure activities such as trekking, rock climbing, and rappelling amid the hilly terrains. 4. Naukuchiatal: Located 320 km from Delhi, Naukuchiatal is one of the surreal travel destinations. The hill station is renowned as a lake of nine corners for its placid and beautiful lake, which is situated at 1220 mt above sea level and is 175 feet deep. The surrounding hills covered in trees and shrubs only augment the beauty and serenity of the place. Adding to your experience will be an independent art and music festival, Escape. Commercial hubs Nainital and Bhimtal surround Naukuchiatal on either side. So, the knife you are traveling to any of these locations, pay a visit to Naukuchiatal too. 5. Fagu: 3 km adrift Delhi is an enchanting little hill station in Shimla, Fagu. Enjoy the view of the majestic Himalayas, stone-walled houses, and lush green plantations all of which are soothing to the eyes. Besides the destination, the road trip to reach Fagu is as mesmerizing as the destination. Ensure you make the most of this offbeat weekend getaway because the peace and tranquility you get here are nowhere to be found in noisy Delhi. 6. Pithoragarh In the Soar Valley of the Almora district in Uttarakhand, Pithoragarh is one of the most picturesque offbeat destinations near Delhi. Not to exaggerate, it can equal the divine beauty of Kashmir.  Pithoragarh also stands out as a place soaked in religious and spiritual fervor. It has the highly revered Om Parvat and Manasarovar Lake, and Pithoragarh is the home of Mount Kailash.  Do you want the closest encounter with nature? You can trek through the mountainous terrain and cherish its pristine charm.  Moreover, Pithoragarh is the largest city in the Kumaon region. Anyone trekking to the Darma Valley or Milam Glacier will have to start from Pithoragarh as the base camp. Pithoragarh also holds a special place in the security of the country. It is a prominent base of the Indian Army.  You can choose Pithoragarh as your winter escapade or a honeymoon destination in the winter. In the months of January and February, Pithoragarh experiences snowfall. Skiing, snowboarding, and snow trekking are some of the most popular activities in this winter wonderland.  If you are in Pithoragarh in winter, you must not skip a visit to the Pithoragarh Fort. Located on a hilltop on the outskirts of Pithoragarh City, the fort looks out of the world with the embrace of the snow. Are you a foodie? Pithoragarh is known for its delectable Kumaoni cuisine. You cannot miss delicacies like Bhatt ki Churma and Singhal.  7. Dundlod Rajasthan has another offbeat destination near Delhi, Dundlod. Like most of Rajasthan, Dundlod also houses many forts and palaces. The iconic Dundlod Fort, built in the 17th century, now stands as a heritage hotel. Dundlod is a less crowded place. So, if you are traveling solo or you want to keep it quiet, it will be one of the best offbeat destinations near Delhi for you. Visit this hidden gem between October and March to have the most amazing experience.  Further, if you are interested in the history of Dundlod or Rajasthan, you must visit the Dundlod Fort Museum. The paintings, weapons, and artifacts here tell many tales.  Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Where should I go for three days vacation in Delhi? If you have a sudden plan of visiting Delhi and you need names of places then I will suggest you must visit these three places : Haridwar Manali Dehradun  Where can I go for a solo trip from Delhi? It’s very thrilling to travel all by yourself. It’s a good idea if you have started your solo trip journey from your own country. The top five places to travel solo  are as follows : Rishikesh  Mussoorie Jaipur Landsdowne  Kasauli  Where can I spend one day near Delhi? Well, there are many places in Delhi where you spend the day. But, the answer will have first top 4 places where you can stay. Camp Wild Dhauj  Camp Tikkling  Camp Mustang  Thakran Farms What are the best places in Delhi for couples? Couples can go everywhere but still, they look for a special place where they feel more comfortable. Therefore here are five top places in Delhi that you can visit with your partner. Hauz Khas Lodhi Garden Buddha Grden Deer Park Delhi Eye Pack Your Bags: Delhi is surrounded by mesmerizing landscapes that are a far cry from the concrete and polluted scenes that you find in the city. Traveling to these spots can help you unclutter your mind from daily office work, schedules, and meetings. The availability of self-drive cars in Delhi has made it easy for people who do not own a vehicle to enjoy a pleasant getaway with family and friends. So, contact a car rental agency today to rent a car in Delhi and enjoy a pleasant drive to these offbeat destinations near Delhi. Read Also : 10 Best Places for Honeymoon in India Top 10 famous Wonders of India What to Consider When Choosing Vacation Destinations for Families A Guide To National Parks In Georgia - Latest Guide

READ MORE

15 Interesting Facts about India That Every Traveller Should Know

BY  Abdul Aziz Jan 30, 2020

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!  Read Also: 8 Amazing Things To Do In Delhi For First Time Tourists Complete Guide For A Pleasant Agra Tour The Easy Way To Travel In India Top Most Expensive Hotels Of India To Enjoy And Stay Your Holidays