24 of the best things to do in India

Without a doubt, a trip to India guarantees you a lifetime supply of Pulitzer-Prize-winning tales. From the Himalayan north to the palm-lined beaches in the south, through old and new worlds, every corner you turn, every rickshaw you take, there’s a story to be told. You cannot ‘complete’ India, but you can tick off some pretty incredible experiences – starting with two dozen essential things to see and do in India.

1. Take that photo at the Taj Mahal

Or try to find an angle that's all your own. It might be a given, but just in case you’ve been living under a rock for the last 400 years, there’s this place called the Taj Mahal, which is well worth a visit. Ivory white and set on the banks of the Yamuna River in Agra, this Mughal mausoleum is a monument of love. Wearing bright colours works best for photos. Think oranges and reds. Just saying.

See it for yourself on: Golden Triangle

2. Spot tigers at Ranthambore National Park

Ranthambore is thought of as the best place in the world to see the Royal Bengal Tiger, one of the largest big cats, in its natural habitat. Pack your binoculars and look for this elusive jungle juggernaut in the wild. Within the dense forest, there are leopards, striped hyenas, monkeys, sloth bears, and snakes. Basically, if it’s in The Jungle Book, chances are you might see it.

Experience it for yourself on: Rajasthan Adventure

3. Ride the highest road in the world

The Umling La Pass in Ladakh is almost 6,000m (20,000 ft) above sea level and the highest paved road in the world. It’s so high up, you have to acclimatize before crossing. But where there is height, there’s usually a good view, and the Umling Pass doesn’t disappoint. Himalayan valleys, snow-capped peaks, colour-shifting lakes — Ladakh’s wind-sculpted badlands are clickbait for photographers.

4. Eat as much Indian food as you can

You might not have a lot of choice with this one, but we recommend trying as much of the local cuisine as is humanly possible. The best curry you’ve ever had is just around the corner. Taste a traditional cup of chai, discover the secret of Indian flatbreads, and get to know the local people at the world’s largest community kitchen.

Taste it for yourself on: Delhi Day Tour: Culinary Delights of India

5. Catch 360-degree views from Mehrangarh Fort

Standing on a rocky hilltop overlooking the blue city of Jodhpur, battle-scarred Mehrangarh is worth the 300m (984 ft) climb. Loop around the ramparts and enjoy panoramic views of the plains.

See it for yourself on: Northern India: Riverside Safaris, Ancient Fortresses & The Taj Mahal

6. Explore the tantric temples in Khajuraho

A UNESCO heritage site and one of the seven wonders of India, Khajuraho hosts the country’s largest collection of Hindu and Jain temples, famous for their erotic sculptures. With over twenty millennia-old temples remaining, it’ll take a while to get around them all. The most popular is Kandariya Mahadeva or ‘the Great God of the Cave’, which is the largest and most ornate — a good place to say ‘they don’t make them like they used to’ to anyone who will listen.

See it for yourself on: Essential India

7. Enjoy a cup of Darjeeling tea

You’ll probably drink a lot of Chai when you’re in India. Even if you don’t want it, you will find yourself nose deep in it most days. Darjeeling tea hits different. It’s a loose-leaf tea full of powerful antioxidants and tastes best fresh from the plantation. It’s also a great excuse to stay in Darjeeling – a verdant playground for hikers and adventurers. Nothing sets you up better for a cup of tea than a long stroll through the countryside.

8. Be Mughal-inspired at Lake Palace Udaipur

Some words just sound good together… like ‘free food’ or ‘lake palace’. Built from white marble in the middle of Pichola Lake, it’s a mystery that this now fairytale hotel hasn’t sunk. Setting foot on the luxury island is like walking into a royal summer holiday in the 1700s. Silky bedrooms, expensive rugs, priceless art — the Maharanas (high kings) knew how to decorate.

See it for yourself on: Journeys: Discover India

9. Spot shooting stars in the Thar Desert

The dunes of Rajasthan’s golden desert are the perfect mattress for a night under the stars. The deeper into the desert you go, the darker and quieter the skies. Spend the evening spotting constellations and, if you’re lucky, snatch a glimpse of a shooting star. Switch off your phone, put the camera away, and fully recharge your senses.

Experience it for yourself on: Rajasthan & Varanasi — Ancient Temples & the Taj Mahal

10. Join pilgrims at the Brahma temple in Pushkar

This temple is the only one in the world dedicated to Lord Brahma, the Hindu God of Creation. For this reason, it holds a special place in the hearts of devotees. In the holy city of Pushkar, you can mingle with the pilgrims at the Brahma temple. Make sure you’re not carrying any meat, alcohol, or eggs as they’re strictly forbidden in Pushkar!

See it for yourself on: Rajasthan: Laneways & Local Villages

11. Sail the Kerala backwaters

No trip to Kerala is complete without cruising along its brackish beaches and backwaters. Known as the ‘Venice of the East’, the Alleppey backwaters are a serene maze of rivers, canals, and lagoons slipping into the Arabian Sea. Slow things down as you glide by grassy banks and lopsided palms.

Experience it for yourself on: Kerala: Beaches & Backwaters

12. Play cricket in Jojawar, Rajasthan

There is so much to see and do in Rajasthan. From 'Pink City' of Jaipur to the windswept dunes, your trip will have your camera roll begging for extra storage space. However, if you want something a bit more serendipitous, travel to the sleepy village of Jojawar — you might get invited to play in a game of cricket! Yes, you’ll likely be awful compared to the local players, but think of the anecdotes.

Experience it for yourself on: Rajasthan Adventure

13. Tour the ‘City of Palaces’, Mysore

Mysore, now known as Mysuru, is South India’s royal wonder. At night, the sparkling palace puts a glint in the eye of anyone passing by. In daylight, head to the palace and Devaraja Market — the place to pick up souvenir incense. Think how nice your luggage will smell when you get home.

Experience it for yourself on: India Encompassed

14. Catch the sunset on Pondicherry promenade

Now known as Puducherry or ‘Pondy’, this seaside town is famed for its bohemian vibe. Take a stroll down the promenade with the rest of the city and watch the sun sink below the horizon. Learn about Pondy’s local hero, one of the greatest thinkers in Indian philosophy, Sri Aurobindo Ghosh. Yogi, seer, philosopher, poet, freedom fighter — his LinkedIn bio makes for impressive reading. Must be something about those sunsets!

Experience it for yourself on: Best of Southern India

15. Breakfast on a beach in Goa

The beaches in Goa are up there with the Copacabanas and the Bondis. Stunning stretches of golden sand backed by coconut palms. The icing on the cake — the quality of baked goods, especially around Palolem. There’s just something about a morning chai and cinnamon roll while staring out at the Arabian Sea.

Experience it for yourself on: India to Sri Lanka: The Taj Mahal & Beach Bar Crawls

Things to do in Delhi

It’s tough to pick one must-do in Delhi. A captivating blend of old and new, the energy of this capital city is like no other on Earth. Travellers have no shortage of options, but we whittled it down to three of the best things to do in Delhi.

16. Stroll the art-lined streets in Lodhi

Mosey around the murals of India’s first art district and learn about the inspiration behind each piece. The artwork is a mix of spiritual and social commentaries by local and international painters. From huge frescos symbolising the beauty and strength of local women to painted promotions of a plastic-free planet — it just shows what you can do with a lick of paint.

17. Monkey around at Hanuman Temple

Dedicated to the Hindu Monkey God Hanuman, this ancient temple is popular with humans and monkeys alike. You can’t miss the giant red-faced icon at Hanuman Mandir Karol Bagh as it’s a sight to behold.

18. Visit India’s largest mosque, Jama Masjid

Built in the mid-17th century, the marble and red sandstone walls of this once imperial mosque of the Mughal emperors holds up to 25,000 people. Climb the 40-metre (131 ft) high minaret for amazing views of Delhi old and new.

See it for yourself on: Essential India

Things to do in Mumbai

Mumbai is big. It’s boisterous. It’s Bollywood. It’s one of those places you really need to see to believe. Here are some of the best things to do in Mumbai.

19. Shop second-hand at Chor Bazaar

A wonderland for bargain-seekers, Chor Bazaar is one of the largest flea markets in India. Legend has it, if you lose anything in Mumbai, chances are you can buy it back here — hence the nickname ‘Thieves Market’.

20. Explore South Mumbai’s Fort District

Mumbai’s Fort area is the cultural hub of the city, full of heritage buildings, artsy districts and bougie boutiques. Abandon your guide book and follow your nose to some of the country’s most renowned cafes and bakeries.

21. Admire giant Shiva sculptures on Elephanta Island

Disappointingly this isn’t an island ruled by elephants, but it’s still an excellent day trip from Mumbai harbour. Created between AD 450 and 750, these labyrinthine temples, now a UNESCO Heritage Site, are delicately carved from the island’s rock. Beautifully chiselled, they give Ryan Gosling a run for his money. The shining glory is a massive 7m (23ft) three-faced Sadashiva statue to behold.

See them for yourself on: Northern India: Riverside Safaris, Ancient Fortresses & The Taj Mahal

Things to do in Varanasi

Varanasi might have an off-putting nickname (cough…the City of Death), but don’t let that deter you. The name is because people who go here to die…stay with us… to be reborn. Here are three of the most life-affirming experiences you simply ghat to try in Varanasi.

22. Join a candle flower ceremony

The Ganga Aarti ceremony is a holy ceremony where small candles inside a cup of leaves and flowers are offered to the Goddess Ganga. Every evening at 7pm at Dashashwamedh Ghat, spiritual revellers drum, chant, and sing through clouds of incense. It’s a magical atmosphere unparalleled for people watching.

23. Try morning yoga at Assi Ghat

The steps leading down to the river in Varanasi are known as ghats. Assi Ghat is one of the biggest and a popular meeting place for worshippers, hawkers, and entertainers alike. In the mornings it comes alive with music and yoga. Join in and start your day on a spiritual foot.

24. Sail the Ganges at sunrise and sunset

A dawn cruise along the sacred river Ganges is worth the early alarm going off. Watch the ghats as pilgrims and local people wash away their sins. Take morning and evening boat rides to see the riverbank's energy in all lights. You'll even get to participate in a candle and flower ceremony while on the water.

See it for yourself on: Rajasthan & Varanasi — Ancient Temples & the Taj Mahal