Best Places to Visit in India with iBestTravel

After five years of constant travel, I am now semi-settling down with Tamás. However, this does not mean I have given up on exploring the world. Instead, I’ve turned my focus toward traveling in a more ethical and eco-conscious manner. Currently, I am revamping my travel blogs while visiting family in Europe. My ultimate goal is to embark on a significant overland journey to India, a country renowned for its rich cultural heritage and stunning geographical diversity.

As I prepare for this adventure, I’m reminded of the history that shapes this beautiful land. The colonial impact on India is profound, and it is crucial for socially-conscious travelers like us to be aware of it as we explore.

Planning Your Trip to India

“So where should we start, and how do we get there?” asked Tamás, who has yet to visit Asia. To ensure that our trip is well-prepared, I’ve been compiling a list of the best places to visit in India, researching essential topics such as obtaining an Indian visa and determining the optimal time to visit. This information is not just for me; I hope it will also assist you in your travel planning!

Yoga Retreats in India

One of the primary motivations for my visit to India is to delve into the origins of yoga, tracing back to ancient India (around 3000 BCE). My focus is to explore its cultural and spiritual dimensions rather than merely practicing it superficially.

Key locations for yoga include Goa, Rishikesh, and Mysore. While Goa and Rishikesh are tourist hotspots, Mysore offers a quieter experience. My friend recently recommended Ananda Yoga Shala in Rishikesh, but I am still weighing my options.

Indian Cuisine: A Culinary Adventure

India is globally celebrated for its rich gastronomy, with a myriad of spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric captivating food lovers. As a vegan traveler, my options are somewhat streamlined, focusing on the best places to enjoy plant-based cuisine.

With over 1.1 billion people, India has the highest vegetarian population per capita. However, vegans may find some challenges because many vegetarian dishes contain dairy. Nevertheless, states like Maharashtra, particularly Mumbai, boast numerous vegan eateries, making it a top destination for vegan food.

Wildlife and Nature

India is a treasure trove for wildlife enthusiasts. From Indian leopards to elephants, the country offers incredible opportunities to see animals in their natural habitats. It’s essential to partake in ethical tourism that supports wildlife conservation rather than exploitative practices.

Key places to see wildlife include Ranthambhore National Park for tigers and Kaziranga National Park for one-horned rhinos. Always keep in mind that wildlife should not be treated as mere attractions; they deserve to live freely.

Nature’s Bounty in India

From the coasts to the mountains, India boasts myriad landscapes. The Sunderbans mangroves and Meghalaya’s tea gardens are particularly stunning. The immense diversity of flora and fauna is one reason why India is considered one of the best places for nature lovers.

Practical Travel Tips

One aspect that once deterred me from traveling to India was understanding the visa process. It turns out that obtaining an Indian e-visa is straightforward. The cost is around £109.95, and you will receive your e-visa via email within a few days.

For health, consult with healthcare providers about necessary vaccinations before traveling, including Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Tetanus. Travel insurance is also critical for ensuring access to healthcare while abroad.

In conclusion, whether you are a foodie, a nature enthusiast, or a yoga lover, India offers a plethora of options. This guide serves as a foundational resource as you plan your enriching journey. I hope you find it beneficial in sparking your travel dreams!