COLOURFUL AND CHAOTIC, MESMERISING AND MAGNIFICENT, INDIA ASTOUNDS IN EVERY SINGLE DIRECTION

Chittorgarh Fort

Sprawling across 240ha, this magnificent historical site has been granted UNESCO World Heritage status. Thought to have been built in the 7th century, the fort and the city inside it served as the capital of the kingdom of Mewar in Rajasthan for hundreds of years. It has had a tumultuous past – three ferocious attacks – but was returned to the Rajputs in 1616. Today visitors can hike the steep zigzag pathway to the fort where they can explore a plethora of palaces, temples, towers and ponds.

Kerala backwaters

The pace of life in Kerala, a dreamy coastal state in southern India, marches to the beat of its own drum. Bask in the sun on one of the many idyllic white-sand beaches; amble through quiet villages, stopping in at tiny hole-in-the-wall shops for spiced chais with the locals; and make time to explore the many rainforests and hill stations while being serenaded by the sound of the rustling wind. Here you can also cruise the network of backwaters in a houseboat, one of Kerala’s highlights. As you drift along the river, keep your eye out for indigenous birdlife and say hello to the local kids waving frantically at you from the riverbank. Kerala is the place you come to breathe deeply and bliss out.

Taj Mahal

One of the New7Wonders of the World, the Taj Mahal flabbergasts in its splendour and beauty. The impressive white marble mausoleum is one of the most prized and talked-about architectural marvels on the planet – and, of course, no journey to India is complete without a visit here. Its construction took place from about 1632 to 1648 and the most gifted masons, carvers, stonecutters, painters, calligraphers and countless other artists were summoned from all over Central Asia for the project. Today people come to admire the elaborate handiwork, the way its colours change throughout the day and the astounding symmetry of architectural elements throughout.

Thar Desert

If you’re seeking an off-the-beaten-track adventure, the vast Thar Desert in India’s northwest is the place to go. A beautifully barren expanse of rolling sand dunes and savannah, its sheer magnitude and natural beauty humble the senses. Camel safaris are one of the most popular ways to explore the region, with the desert city of Jaisalmer one of the best starting points.

Holi Festival

Picture a riot of colours and people meshed into one great big party. Holi, India’s first major Hindu festival of the year, celebrates the beginning of spring in style. It’s a manic and memorable celebration, often referred to as the ‘festival of colours’. People go wild in the streets and spray each other with colourful dyed powder to signify the vitality of the season. Wear old clothes and be prepared to walk away looking like a rainbow.

Varanasi

One of the oldest continuously populated cities in the world, Varanasi is an intoxicating brew of chaos, commotion and colour. It’s also known as one of India’s holiest cities and is located on the banks of the sacred River Ganges. Pilgrims travel to the riverside ghats to wash away their sins, while tourists come to soak up the atmospheric Varanasi amalgam of temples, ghats and bazaars.

Diwali

One of the most important festivals in India, Diwali, the ‘festival of lights’, sees millions of people gather to pray, watch fireworks and light candles to commemorate new beginnings and celebrate the achievement of good over evil, represented by light over darkness. Although the folklores of the festival differ across regions of India, the theme of light is the common thread and it’s a magnificent time to visit.

India’s bazaars

Want to jump right in for a taster of traditional India? Shopping at local markets should be on your must-do list. Watch life play out as you stroll along alleyways perusing homemade goods and listening to the perpetual chatter; stop to sample street food cooked fresh to order; and haggle – it’s all part of the fun. India’s bazaars have everything you could possibly desire. Fresh spices? Mother-of-pearl homewares? Cashmere pashminas? You’ll find it all, plus more.

Folk dancing

Dance is a dynamic part of Indian culture and watching folk dance is an enthralling part of an Indian holiday. Traditional dances vary significantly from region to region and can include anything from lively re-enactment demonstrations and harvest celebrations to women-only performances. There are literally hundreds of folk and tribal dance styles, so keep your eyes open during celebrations and you might find yourself a lucky bystander. Alternatively, seek out a tour that includes dance performances.