Choose from 274 Fun Things to Do in India
ShowingFilter 21-40 of 274 listings.
Bandra-Worli Sea Link
Epic bridges are a hallmark of big cities. From the Golden Gate to the Brooklyn Bridge, these concrete and steel structures have become the icons of urban skylines. India’s expansive Bandra-Worli Sea Link, which connects the western suburbs of Mumbai to the well-heeled neighborhood of Bandra, is no exception.
This eight-lane bridge opened to the public in 2009 and cost some $250 million dollars to construct. But locals say that despite a steep price tag the bridge was worth the expense, since it’s finally possible to escape old road bottlenecks between north and south. Travelers love the epic views that await them as they ascend from the color and chaos of Mumbai into the calm, open road. Colorful lights and cool evening breezes make for an ideal evening drive, but visitors agree it’s still worth a trip any time of day.
Practical Info
Nearly 40,000 vehicles traverse the Bandra-Worli Sea Link each day. Travelers should expect to spend upwards of an hour on the drive from Bandra to Worli during peak hours. Cars are expected to pay a minimal toll to access the bridge.
Address: Bandra-Worli Sea Link, Mumbai, India
From $ 50
Bandstand Promenade
Every city has its prime people-watching spot, and in Mumbai, that spot is the Bandstand Promenade. Just over a half mile (1 kilometer) long, this stretch of pedestrian walkway hugging the coast has become one of the city’s most popular hangout spots. On any given day, you’ll see locals jogging or relaxing in the park and young couples sneaking in displays of affection away from the prying eyes of parents.
On weekends and evenings, the promenade’s amphitheater hosts concerts and performances, as well as the annual Mumbai Festival and Celebrate Bandra Festival.
Many of Bollywood’s biggest stars, including Shahrukh Khan, own flats just across the road from the promenade. In 2012, a Walk of the Stars opened on the promenade, featuring life-sized brass tributes to Bollywood legends, each likeness lounging on a park bench.
On weekends and evenings, the promenade’s amphitheater hosts concerts and performances, as well as the annual Mumbai Festival and Celebrate Bandra Festival.
Many of Bollywood’s biggest stars, including Shahrukh Khan, own flats just across the road from the promenade. In 2012, a Walk of the Stars opened on the promenade, featuring life-sized brass tributes to Bollywood legends, each likeness lounging on a park bench.
Address: Byramji Jeejeebhoy Rd, Bandra West, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400050, India
From $ 46
Banganga Tank
In the heart of Mumbai’s most exclusive district, Banganga Tank is one of the oldest and holiest sites in the city. First built in 1127 AD during the Silhara dynasty, this natural freshwater spring is surrounded by the stone-turreted temples and colorful shrines of Walkeshwar Temple Complex. As you sit on the pool’s surrounding steps, notice the wooden pole which appears like an arrow in the middle of the water. Said to point to the center of the earth, legend has it that, 5,000 years ago, while the Hindu god Ram was searching desperately for his kidnapped wife, Sita, he stopped at this spot and begged his brother Lakshmana for a little water. Lakshmana threw an arrow into the ground, and immediately an eruption of water burst forth.
Said to be a tributary of the Ganges, which flows 1,000 miles away, on a visit to Banganga Tank you may well see religious pilgrims bathing themselves in the spiritual healing waters. An especially good time to visit Banganga Tank is in January, when the annual two-day Banganga Festival celebrates classical music performed by Indian musicians from across the country.
Practical Info
On the southern tip of Malabar Hill, in Walkeshwar Temple Complex, Banganga Tank and the temple complex is around a 10-minute walk from Walkeshwar Bus Depot. Entrance is free, and the holy site is open year-round.
Address: Walkeshwar Road, Mumbai, India
Hours: Year-round
From $ 18
Ghum Monastery
Darjeeling has a large Tibetan community, and its Ghum Monastery is one of the city's most popular sights. With its traditional architecture and golden exterior detailing, the monastery itself is a sight to behold, but the monastery’s 15-foot-tall (4.6-meter-tall) Maitreya Buddha statue and the views of the surrounding hills are what bring many visitors here.
The Basics
Situated on the outskirts of Darjeeling, at some 8,000 feet (2,438 meters) in elevation, the Ghum Monastery (also called the Yiga Choeling Monastery) is among the oldest Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in West Bengal. It was constructed in 1850 by Mongolian monk and astrologer Sokpo Sherab Gyatso, and today it's run by the Yellow Hat, or Gelugpa, sect. Sunrise tours to nearby Tiger Hill often include stops at the monastery.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Ghum Monastery is a must-see for those with an interest in architecture and spirituality.
- Bring a jacket—it can be chilly here, especially in the early morning.
- The monastery is not suitable for wheelchair users.
How to Get There
Ghum Monastery is located on the outskirts of Darjeeling in the town of Ghum, about 15 minutes by car from the sunrise observatory at Tiger Hill or 20 minutes south from the Darjeeling Clock Tower at the center of town. While there is a narrow-gauge railway to Darjeeling, many people fly to the nearest airport in Siliguri, about a three-hour drive away.
When to Get There
The monastery is open year-round from morning until evening, though many visitors come first thing in the day, often after watching the sunrise from nearby Tiger Hill. The monastery also offers a number of religious celebrations throughout the year, including Tibetan New Year (Losar), usually in February, and the birthday of the Dalai Lama, in July.
India’s Tibetan Community
India has many large Tibetan settlements and a huge population of Tibetan people, largely because the Dalai Lama fled there following the 1959 Tibetan Uprising. The largest settlement is the hamlet of McLeod Ganj, near Dharamsala, where the Dalai Lama himself resides; the Tibetan Government in Exile is also located here.
Address: Darjeeling, West Bengal, India 734102, India
From $ 1,379
Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib)
Harmandir Sahib, or Golden Temple, is the most sacred of Sikh gurdwaras. It’s located in the northern city of Amritsar in India’s Punjab state and is part of a large temple complex. The stunning golden gurdwara that stands today was rebuilt in the mid-18th century by Jassa Singh Ahluwalia.
Situated at the end of a long causeway, the Golden Temple is a unique blend of Islamic and Hindu architecture. Everybody, irrespective of caste and creed, are welcome at Harmandir Sahib, and there are four doors to the temple representing this openness of the Sikhs towards all people and religions.
Encircled by a marble walkway and surrounded by water that is believed to have healing properties, pilgrims come from all over the world to worship and bathe here. The upper levels of the temple are covered with gold, while in the inner sanctum, priests and musicians chant from the Guru Granth Sahib (the Sikh holy book) consistently throughout the day.
Practical Info
While everybody is welcome at the Golden Temple, certain rules and courtesies must be observed. Visitors must remove their shoes and wash their feet in a small pool of water before entering. All guests should also dress conservatively, covering their heads as a sign of respect (head scarves are available just before the temple entrance).
Address: Golden Temple Road, Amritsar, Punjab 143006, India
Hours: 6am - 2am daily
From $ 34
Banaras Ghats
Varanasi’s ghats (Banaras Ghats) descend from the city down the banks and into the waters of the holy River Ganges. There are almost 100 individual ghats lining the river’s edge in this region, their steep steps making access to the river possible during both the wet and dry seasons. The oldest and most famous ghats in the area are Dashashwamedh, Manikarnika, and Harishchandra. Others include Assi Ghat, Scindia Ghat, Lalita Ghat, and Kedar Ghat.
As the religious capital of India among Hindus, Varanasi sees pilgrims and other visitors drawn to the Banaras Ghats in their droves. Visitors can absorb the atmosphere by taking a sunrise boat-ride along the river, while marveling at the colorful temples and religious activities lining the water’s edge.
Devout Hindus aim to travel to the Banaras Ghats at least once in their lifetimes, and most hope to die and be cremated within the city in order that their ashes be swept away by the Ganges. The cremation fires here burn all day every day, with the main cremation ghat being Manikarnika. Some ghats are simply used for prayers and bathing.
Practical Info
Travel between the Banaras Ghats by auto-rickshaw or on a boat trip along the river. Trips from Dashashwamedh Ghat to Manikarnika Ghat are popular, although some boat operators begin at the most southerly ghat, Assi, and head north.
Address: Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001, India
From $ 35
Film City (Dadasaheb Phalke Chitranagri)
Spanning hundreds of acres, Film City (now officially known as Dadasaheb Phalke Chitranagri) has been a popular spot for Bollywood filmings since the state government built it back in the 1970s. The massive complex features everything from indoor studios to full-sized village recreations. More than 1000 sets can be used here at once.
The Basics
Because Film City houses working studios, public visitors can't just show up and walk around—rather, you must be on an organized tour. Tours vary a bit depending on what parts of Film City are in use at any given time, but generally include the opportunity to see some of the sets and learn more about the industry in general. Often, visitors can even catch a glimpse of a filming in action.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Film City is large and you may have to walk outside a lot, so wear sunscreen and comfortable shoes.
- Travelers aren’t allowed to visit on their own, so make sure to sign up for a tour in advance.
- Bottled water and food are available for purchase on-site.
- Photos and videos are restricted in some areas of the complex.
How to Get There
Film City is located in the suburb of Goregaon in the northwest of Mumbai, at the edge of the gargantuan Sanjay Gandhi National Park. Getting there from the touristy heart of the city involves quite a trek, so it’s best to take a taxi. Without traffic, it takes at least an hour to get there from the Gateway of India.
When to Get There
Much of Film City is outdoors, so weather plays a big role in when to go. Mumbai temperatures are consistently warm throughout the year, but December through March are the most ideal because they’re the least humid. July and August mark the peak of Mumbai’s notoriously torrential monsoon rains, and can make visiting Film City uncomfortable, if not impossible.
What is Bollywood?
A portmanteau of Bombay and Hollywood, Bollywood refers to the Hindi-language film industry, accounting for nearly half of the Indian film industry's annual revenue. Most Bollywood films are considerably longer than Hollywood films, many lasting upwards of three hours, usually with an intermission in between. Nearly all feature some choreographed songs, often (but not always) used to drive a larger narrative.
Address: Mumbai, India
From $ 49
Basilica of Bom Jesus
Built at the turn of the 17th century by Florentine sculptor Giovanni Battista Foggini, this red-stone church is one of the oldest in India. It's also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While it's dedicated to the baby Jesus, many people choose to visit because the basilica holds the remains of St. Francis Xavier, the patron saint of Goa.
The Basics
While the exterior of the Basilica de Bom Jesus is impressive, with an imposing facade made of red sandstone pulled from the sea, the interiors are particularly striking as well. Inside you'll find gold-gilded altars, white marble floors with stone inlay, and lots of paintings of St. Francis Xavier. The saint's tomb sits to the right of the altar, and his remains are displayed once per decade.
The basilica can be viewed as part of a day trip to Goa; visitors may choose a dedicated cultural heritage tour, or combine historical sights with beaches, markets, and more. Hop-on hop-off bus tours also stop at the basilica.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Dress modestly out of respect for local culture, with your knees and shoulders covered.
- The basilica is arguably the most important church in Goa and it’s a must-visit for history buffs.
- If you come during Mass, stay in the pews and wait until the service is over before you walk around or take photos.
How to Get There
The basilica is situated in the heart of Old Goa, or Velha Goa as it's known locally, and virtually all tours of Old Goa stop here. It's about 20 minutes’ drive to Old Goa from Panaji, the state capital, or about 40 minutes from Calangute. If you're coming from farther north—such as from Anjuna or Chapora—give yourself at least an hour to get here.
When to Get There
The basilica is open Monday through Friday and on Sunday. It's closed Saturday, except during special religious services. Mass is held twice every morning on weekdays, and again once in the evening, with Sunday services in English and Konkani. The church also offers special programs for the Feast of St. Francis Xavier on December 3.
St. Francis Xavier: The Patron Saint of Goa
Francis Xavier was one of the founders of the Society of Jesus (Jesuits). He traveled to India in 1542 as a missionary and is celebrated for the work he did to spread Catholicism in India, particularly in the South. However, he was also behind the Goa Inquisition, which led to severe punishments of Catholic people who were suspected of practicing Hinduism in secret.
Address: Old Goa, India
From $ 8
Golden Temple (Kashi Vishwanath)
The Golden Temple, known locally as Kashi Vishwanath, is situated in Varanasi on the west banks of the River Ganges. It’s dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the 12 jyotirlinga sites – the holiest and most sacred of Shiva shrines.
This important temple was built in 1780 by the Maratha monarch and is a fine example of ancient Hindu architecture. It has a huge golden spire and its domes are said to be made from pure gold. Inside the complex there are a series of smaller shrines situated along a small lane called the Vishwanatha Galli. To the north of the main temple, there is a small well called the Jnana Vapi (Wisdom Well), where it’s believed that the jyotirlinga was hidden at times of invasion.
Kashi Vishwanath is a main pilgrimage site for Hindus visiting Varanasi and can become incredibly busy as it welcomes thousands of people every day. A visit to the temple and a bath in the River Ganges is believed to lead devotees to moksha (liberation), meaning Hindus from all over the world aim to visit the holy site at least once in their lifetimes.
Practical Info
The Golden Temple is located along the banks of the River Ganges in Varanasi. The easiest way to reach it from around the city is via taxi or auto-rickshaw.
Address: Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001, India
Hours: 3am-11pm
From $ 18
Crafts Museum
Travelers who can’t make it to the village but still want to experience traditional rural Indian Iife will find what they’re looking at the Crafts Museum in New Delhi. This unique destination is designed with an eye towards local life and showcases artisan who are experts in handloom weaving, wall painting and pottery. Visitors can purchase one-of-a-kind creations for friends back at home, meet artists face-to-face and watch them at work, making some of India’s most iconic crafts.
The museum is also home to a lush courtyard and quiet café, perfect for relaxing. And travelers can venture into the ornate carved temple or well-decorated temple also on the grounds.
Practical Info
The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. It is easily accessible using the local metro to the Pragati Maidan stop in Bhairon Marg.
Address: Bhairon Marg, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi 110001, India
Admission: Rs.150
From $ 35
Bapu Bazaar
Jaipur is one of the best places in India to shop for handicrafts items, and some of the optimal places to pick up great bargains are located right in the heart of the Pink City. Bapu Bazaar offers a particularly good selection, with everything from jewelry to traditional Rajasthani textiles displayed colorfully in this lively market street.
The Basics
Vendors at Bapu Bazaar specialize in textiles, and it’s the place to go if you’re in the market for bed sheets, scarves, or traditional Indian saris. Other popular finds include leather products, such as traditional shoes known as jootis, along with brass works, marble, precious stones, and a smattering of Rajasthani products, all at affordable prices. Even if you aren't into shopping, it's a great place to explore, with plenty of compelling photo opportunities.
Visit the bazaar independently or as part of a half-day group shopping tour or a private heritage walking tour that also explores the Albert Hall Museum, the New Gate, Anant Dev Temple, and other sights.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Be prepared to bargain, as most prices here are flexible.
- Most vendors in the area know some English, but learning a few Hindi words can go a long way.
- Wear comfortable footwear and be prepared to jostle with crowds.
How to Get There
Bapu Bazaar is located in the heart of the Pink City, just south of the City Palace and Hawa Mahal and north of M.I. Road. Many Jaipur shopping tours stop here. If you come on your own, you’re best off asking your driver to drop you off at Sanganeri Gate and continuing your explorations on foot.
When to Get There
Most shops at Bapu Bazaar are open Monday through Saturday, usually from around 11am to 7pm. Arrive early to avoid crowds and to score “first customer of the day” deals (it’s considered lucky to sell something to the first person who visits your shop or stall in the morning).
Woodblock Printing
Jaipur is celebrated for preserving the millennia-old craft of woodblock printing. This method of decorating textiles involves using carved wooden stamps to print directly onto fabrics, and vendors throughout town sell everything from men's shirts to cloth napkins created using the technique. Some Jaipur tours also stop at nearby Sanganer, where visitors can watch woodblock printing in action.
Address: Jaipur, India
From $ 21
Bannerghatta National Park
One of India's largest wildlife areas, the enormous Bannerghatta National Park spans more than 25,000 acres (10,000 hectares) and features tons of hiking trails, villages, and temples. The highlight of the reserve is the Bannerghatta Biological Park, which features an animal rescue center, a zoo, safaris, and a butterfly park.
The Basics
Forests and scrubs cover the hilly park, which plays home to all sorts of wild creatures, including elephants, deer, leopards, and even bears. It also offers an interesting variety of plant life, including tamarind, eucalyptus, and sandalwood. This off-the-beaten-track attraction makes for an excellent day trip from Bangalore, and private tours from the city are available for those who don't want to figure out bus schedules or book taxis and tickets independently.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Bannerghatta National Park is great for families with young kids.
- Don’t forget sunscreen, bug spray, and comfortable shoes.
- Book ahead or go with a tour to guarantee a seat in a safari vehicle.
How to Get There
Bannerghatta National Park is located south of Bangalore, about an hour's drive from the city center or an hour and a half by bus. Mysore is a 3-hour drive away, and the park can be visited as a stop off between the two cities, if traveling by car or taxi.
When to Get There
The park is open throughout the year, except Tuesdays. Weekdays can be busy with school groups, while weekends get lots of families. However, the biggest consideration for many travelers is weather. While the climate is generally mild in the region, with warm winters and not-too-hot summers, monsoon rains fall from June through September and can put a literal damper on outdoor activities.
Safaris
Many travelers come here for safaris, and the park offers three different experiences: lion and tiger safaris, bear safaris, or even herbivore safaris, which focus on all sorts of native deer (though you may even spot an elephant). Visitors travel in special secure vehicles and are joined by local guides who are experts in animal spotting.
Address: Karnataka, India
Admission: Varies
From $ 62
Dudhsagar Falls
At 1,017 feet (310 meters), Dudhsagar Falls is among the tallest waterfalls in India. At the base of the four-tiered falls is a huge swimming area—that’s as as far as most travelers go. A railway bridge crosses right under the falls, and if you happen to visit when a train is passing by you're sure to get some great photos.
The Basics
Dudhsagar means “sea of milk,” and although legend has it that the falls were formed when a bathing princess poured a jug of milk out, it's more likely that the falls got their name from the white color that forms as they plume down to the ground. Hiking up to the falls is popular but dangerous, so if you’re planning to go beyond the swimming area at the base, you’re better off embarking on that adventure with a guide.
Things to Know Before You Go
- If you plan to hike up to the top of the falls, be sure to wear solid footwear—the trail can be slippery.
- The falls gets a lot of domestic visitors, and women should consider wearing covering their swimsuits out of respect for local modesty customs.
- The falls isn’t suitable for people for wheelchairs or others with limited mobility.
How to Get There
Dudhsagar Falls sit on the border of Goa and Karnataka, about a two-hour drive inland from Panaji, to the northwest of the falls, and Palolem, to the southwest. Although the roads are accessible by motorbike, travelers may find it easier to visit by taxi or as part of an organized tour. Sonalium Railway Station is a short jaunt from the falls, but trains aren’t allowed to stop there due to a lack of facilities (or even a platform).
When to Get There
The monsoon season in Goa, which can start as early as June and go through September, fills the falls with water and has the potential to washing out the roads and paths leading up to them. Therefore, the best time to visit is in October or November, right after the monsoon season but when water levels are still high.
Hiking in Goa
Hiking—called trekking in India, even if it's just a short jaunt—is a popular activity among domestic and international visitors alike. Most head up to the northern regions and the Himalayan foothills, but Goa and South India offer a fair few long-distance hikes of their own. The Dudhsagar trek, for instance, involves a mix of gravel roads and railway tracks. Other popular trekking areas include the surrounding Mollem National Park and the Krishnapur Canyon near the border with Maharashtra.
Address: Goa, India
From $ 66
Dutch Cemetery
The Dutch Cemetery in Kochi is believed to be the oldest in the country, dating back to the beginning of the 18th century. It houses the tombs of Dutch soldiers and traders who left their homeland in order to expand their colonial empires – and as a result changed the entire course of history in India.
The cemetery is distinctly Dutch in its architecture and is surrounded by concrete walls. The year 1724 is engraved on a pillar towering over the cemetery’s entrance. Many of the tombs are made of granite and the epitaphs on each show the authentic records of those of both Dutch and British origin etched out in old Dutch script. According to T W Venn, who published a book on the subject, the last person laid to rest in the Dutch Cemetery in Kochi was Captain Joseph Ethelbert Winckler in 1913.
Practical Info
The Dutch Cemetery is located on the road that runs parallel to Fort Kochi Beach. Its gates are usually kept locked but are opened on the request of polite visitors (Ask at nearby St Francis Church).
Address: Kochi, Kerala, India, India
From $ 35
Gateway of India
One of Mumbai's most recognizable attractions, the triple-arched Gateway of India was built during the early 20th century in honor of the 1911 visit of King George V. Built of basalt and concrete, this monument was designed in the Indo-Saracenic style, which blends traditional Indian, Victorian, and Mughal architectural elements.
The Basics
Standing 25 meters (83 feet) high, the Gateway of India is among the city's most popular attractions, and many sightseeing tours start here. It has strong associations with British power, and became part of a ceremony marking the end of colonial rule in 1948, when soldiers from the Somerset Light Infantry crossed through the Gateway. Today visitors and locals alike flock here to stroll and take in the scenery, particularly around sunset.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The area around the Gateway of India is for pedestrians only, so wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to walk.
- Carry an umbrella to protect yourself from sun or rain.
- This stately arch is a must-visit for architecture and history buffs.
How to Get There
The Gateway of India is located in South Mumbai, just under 10 minutes’ drive south of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, the city's southernmost railway station. It's easily accessible by road or on foot if you're already hanging out in the Colaba area, and ferries to and from Elephanta Island stop there. The Mumbai Airport is about an hour away by car.
When to Get There
The Gateway of India is a year-round destination, though Mumbai is best avoided during July and August, when heavy monsoon downpours can make the city challenging to navigate. Though it’s a good spot to people-watch during the day, the Gateway of India is most interesting around dusk, when families come out to take an evening stroll, and to buy kulfi (an Indian type of ice cream) and other snacks from street vendors.
Wellington Pier
Right in front of the Gateway of India stands Wellington Pier (formerly known as Apollo Bunder). It was once one of the most important points of entry into Mumbai, particularly during the Victorian era, though these days it is rarely used except for boats heading out to Elephanta Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is known for its rock-hewn cave temples.
Address: Apollo Bunder Harbour, Colaba, India
From $ 9
Bangalore Fort (Kempegowda's Fort)
Also known as Kempegowda's Fort after the founder of Bangalore (Kempe Gowda), this landmark construction was originally built in 1537 out of mud and converted to stone in 1761. It was later captured by the British East India Company in 1791. Today, only two bastions and one gate remain, along with gardens and a Ganesh temple.
The Basics
While much of Bangalore Fort has since gone to ruin, spending time here provides an excellent glimpse of what life was like under the city's famous founder, Kempe Gowda. It’s still a popular stop on many city tours, and going with a guide can help provide some context, especially if you’re interested in understanding how large the fort once was (before parts of it were destroyed to make way for roads and buildings).
Things to Know Before You Go
- Bangalore Fort is a must-visit for history buffs and architecture lovers.
- Make sure to wear sunscreen and a hat, along with comfortable shoes.
- The fort is not suitable for wheelchair users.
How to Get There
The fort is located on Krisnarajendra Road in Chamrajpet, a short walk from the City Market and right behind the KR Market Metro station, which connects to Lalbagh Gardens via the Green Line. It's about a 5-minute walk from Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace, and the two attractions are often visited together.
When to Get There
Bangalore is a year-round destination, with a moderately warm climate throughout the year, even in the cooler winter months of November through January. Things begin to heat up around April, and temperatures peak in mid-May before the rainfall of the monsoon. Rains continue through August or September, but usually do not bring the city to a halt.
Kempe Gowda and the Birth of Bangalore
Kempe Gowda ruled during the Vijayanagara Empire, which had control over much of present-day South India in the 17th century. According to legend, during a hunting trip he had a vision of a large city, leading him to conquer the surrounding areas and eventually form Bangalore, starting with what was then an 8-gate fort.
Address: Krisnarajendra Road, Chamrajpet, Bangalore, India
Admission: Varies
From $ 59
Bangalore Palace (Bengaluru Palace)
Among the most stunning landmarks in the city, Bangalore Palace is one of many homes of the Wadiyar family, who ruled much of South India for centuries. Portions of this palace have been open to the public since 2005, though one of the Wadiyars still lives in a private wing of the gargantuan structure to this day.
The Basics
Spread out on more than 450 acres (182 hectares), including a large landscaped garden, this huge palace complex is one of the most popular attractions in Bangalore and a frequent stop on cultural tours. It features an impressive mix of Tudor, Gothic, Victorian, and neoclassical architectural elements.
Visitors are allowed access to a large part of the palace, including gloriously decorated bedrooms, royal halls, and a ballroom. It also houses one of Bangalore's first elevators, which is operated by hand.
Things to Know Before You Go
- An audio tour is included with admission.
- Travelers must pay extra if they want to use their cameras.
- A visit to Bangalore Palace is an excellent choice for history buffs and architecture lovers.
- Wheelchair users might find it challenging to get around the palace.
How to Get There
Bangalore Palace is located on the Palace Grounds, off Jayamahal Road in the Vasanth Nagar area, about a 20-minute walk from the Bangalore Cantonment railway station. Getting to Cubbon Park takes around 15 to 20 minutes by taxi or auto rickshaw, traffic permitting, while Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace and Bangalore Fort take about a half-hour to reach by car.
When to Get There
Bangalore Palace is a year-round destination, though it’s partially outside so weather might be a consideration for some visitors. Bangalore’s climate is pleasant throughout the year, with mild winters and slightly cooler summers than many parts of the subcontinent. The monsoon rains that start in early June and continue through August or September can make getting around a bit of a soggy experience, while October through March tend to be cooler and drier.
Concerts at the Palace
For many years, the palace grounds doubled as a concert venue, with huge international acts, such as Elton John, The Prodigy, Guns N' Roses, Metallica, and even the Rolling Stones, performing here. However, the grounds stopped hosting concerts in 2012 due to legal issues, leaving the city without a venue capable of hosting huge crowds. Whether the palace will eventually open up again for concerts or not remains unclear.
Address: Bangalore, India
Admission: Varies
From $ 33
Baroda Museum & Picture Gallery
Sayajirao Gaekwad III, the Maharaja of Baroda in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, founded the Baroda Museum & Picture Gallery in 1887 as a place to house the sizable collection of art and artifacts he’d gathered or commissioned during his travels. The museum building was completed in 1894 and the picture gallery in 1914 — both Indo-Saracenic structures were designed by English architects R.F. Chisholm and Major R.N. Ment.
The eclectic collection on display within features Mughal miniatures, Indian musical instruments, a blue whale skeleton, glazed ceramics, an Egyptian mummy and many paintings by classic and modern European masters.
Practical Info
Set aside at least half a day to take in the collections at the Baroda Museum & Picture Gallery.
Address: Fatehgunj Main Road, Sayajibaug, Vadodara, Gujarat, India
Hours: Open daily 10:30am-5:30pm
Admission: 200 rupees
From $ 83
Banke Bihari Temple
The 19th-century Banke Bihari—one of India’s most famous temples—in Vrindavan houses an idol of Lord Krishna that devotees believe will cause them to faint if they look into its eyes. As such, the idol is kept behind a curtain that’s swiftly opened and closed, allowing worshipers to catch quick glimpses of the god safely.
The Basics
Worship at this temple, founded by Shri Swami Haridas in 1846, is divided into three different acts of service (sewas) to the deity: Shringar (in which the idol is bathed and dressed); Rajbhog (the feeding of the idol); and Shayan (preparing the idol for sleep). Thousands of devotees visit Banke Bihari—one of many names for Lord Krishna—every day for worship. Most international visitors who come here do so as a stopover between Agra (home of the Taj Mahal) and Delhi, or during day tours from Delhi with stops in Vrindavan.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The temple is in a pedestrianized area with lots of little shops and narrow lanes, so be prepared to do some walking.
- Watch out for monkeys in the area; they’re known to steal glasses right off of the heads of unsuspecting visitors.
- Remember to wear modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.
- You must remove your footwear before entering the temple.
- If you come during Holi, the annual festival of colors held throughout Northern India, be prepared to be covered with powdered colors by passing revelers—and wear clothes you don’t mind ruining.
How to Get There
The Banke Bihari Temple is located in the heart of the holy city of Vrindavan in Uttar Pradesh, just off the road that runs between Delhi and Agra. It's about a 10-minute drive from Vrindavan’s other major temple attraction, the ISKCON (Hare Krishna) temple, and about a 25-minute drive from the town of Mathura, Vrindavan’s twin city. Many visitors come as part of an organized tour.
When to Get There
The Banke Bihari Temple is open throughout the year, though it's at its busiest around sunset. One of the most auspicious times to visit is for the special aarti (prayer ceremony) on Krishna Janmashtami, usually in September, which marks the birthday of Lord Krishna.
Lord Krishna
Lord Krishna is one of the most recognizable—and most loved—Hindu deities, and many believe that he once lived in the Vrindavan-Mathura area. An avatar of the preserver god Vishnu, Krishna is depicted in various forms. His skin is usually a light blue and he’s often depicted with playing a flute. He’s also sometimes shown as a plump baby with his hand in a butter jar (owing to a legend about him stealing butter).
Address: Mathura District, Vrindavan, India
From $ 47
Crawford Market
Also known as Mahatma Jyobita Phule, Crawford Market, the largest market in Mumbai, is an incredible place to shop for food and household goods, take photos, or simply wander around people watching. It's also not a bad place to try local snacks, as there are myriad street-food stalls serving up all sorts of treats.
The Basics
Crawford Market occupies a huge old building dating back to 1869 that features a blend of Norman and Flemish architecture; in 1882, this was the first building in India to get electric lighting. A frieze on the exterior was designed by Rudyard Kipling's father, and the interiors are full of stalls and shops selling all sorts of everyday goods. Although it’s fun to lose yourself in the many lanes and stalls here, bringing a guide or going with a tour is never a bad idea, particularly if you want to ask questions about what you’re seeing.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Wear comfortable shoes and prepare to walk.
- Bargaining for housewares and decor is acceptable, but you may not want to bother if you’re just buying fruits and vegetables.
- Always ask before taking photos.
- The meat section of the market is gory, and sensitive travelers or those with kids may want to avoid it.
How to Get There
Crawford Market is located in the heart of central Mumbai, a 10-minute walk north of Fashion Street and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, the main railway station. Most major South Mumbai attractions are within a 15-minute drive or auto-rickshaw ride of the market. Once you arrive, be prepared to do a lot of walking.
When to Get There
The market is open every day from around 9 or 10 am to 8 pm, except on Sundays, when it's usually closed. It's best to arrive first thing in the day if you want to score good deals; in fact, being the first customer is considered auspicious. It's at its most crowded in the evening, when locals visit after work.
Indian Mangoes
If you happen to be visiting the market during mango season, which starts in April and goes on until June, you’ll have a blast at Crawford Market. Here you'll find all sorts of varieties of India's national fruit. It's definitely worth splurging for some expensive, but incredibly delicious, Alphonso mangoes, which are considered the king of all mangoes.
Address: Lokmanya Tilak Road, Mumbai, India
From $ 18