Choose from 274 Fun Things to Do in India
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Mumbadevi Temple
One of Mumbai’s most ancient temples, Mumbadevi Temple also happens to be in based in one of the city’s liveliest spots. Surrounded by the bustling bazaars, flower shops, and cloth markets of South Mumbai’s Bhuleshwar district, Mumbadevi Temple remains serene. Worshipped by Mumbai’s native Koli fishermen for many centuries, Mumbadevi is the eight-armed Hindu goddess this temple was built for, and she is also the deity that Mumbai gets its name from.
Thought to have been built in 1675, travelers are welcome at Mumbadevi Temple. Mornings and evenings are an especially beautiful times to visit the famous temple, as this is when devotees come to attend religious aartis, when candles are offered to the goddess. But the highlight of a visit to Mumbadevi must be seeing the great deity on her altar, replete with a silver crown, golden necklace, and garland made of brilliant marigolds. Look out for the stone idol of Annapurna seated on a peacock, and a particularly fearsome-looking sculpture of a wild tiger too.
Right outside the temple is Zaveri Bazaar. Its liveliness can be quite a shock after enjoying the peacefulness of Mumbadevi Temple, but on this narrow street you can buy all kinds of Hindu religious objects including incense, saffron, and paintings of the gods.
Practical Info
To get to Mumbadevi Temple, head to the northern end of Zaveri Bazaar in the Bhuleshwar district of South Mumbai. The station nearest to the bazaar is Charni Road, from which you can take a cab or auto rickshaw to get to the market area. The temple is open every day but Monday.
Address: Mumbai, India
Hours: Tues-Sun
From $ 18
Jal Mahal (Water Palace)
Situated smack in the middle of Man Sagar Lake, on the road that runs between Jaipur and Amber Fort (Amer Fort), the 18th-century Jal Mahal (Water Palace) is a gorgeous red sandstone palace that’s accessible only by boat. Though currently closed to visitors, the dreamlike structure is still an incredible sight to behold from shore.
The Basics
This 5-story palace was built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, who integrated Rajput and Mughal stylistic features into its architecture. After centuries of disrepair, a refurbishment project began in the early 21st century, though it’s still not open for the public to explore. However, many tours of Jaipur stop at the lake’s shores (usually en route to nearby Amber Fort) for photographs, particularly in the monsoon season when the lake is at its fullest.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Peering across the water at the Jal Mahal is a must-do for all first-time Jaipur visitors.
- The Jal Mahal is not open to the public; most Jaipur sightseeing tours just stop in front of it.
- Sometimes dignitaries are allowed to visit the palace, so you may see boats on the water.
- The Jal Mahal is at its most photogenic in August and September, when monsoon rains cause the lake’s water level to rise.
How to Get There
The Jal Mahal is located between Jaipur and Amber Fort, just before the turnoff to the Jaigarh Fort road. It’s a 10-minute drive from both Amber Fort’s parking lot and Jaipur’s top attractions such as the Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mantar observatory, and the City Palace.
When to Get There
While the Jal Mahal is viewable year-round, it is most attractive and photogenic during and immediately after the monsoon season (July and August), when the lake’s water level is high. Visit earlier in the year and you’ll see some of the lower floors, which are submerged when the lake is full.
The Palace: Past and Future
Not much is known about the palace’s original intents, though many believe it was intended to be used as a summer getaway and duck hunting lodge for the royal family. After much neglect, it was restored as part of a public-private partnership, but has remained in a state of flux for years. There’s much speculation about the palace’s future fate, but for now the building remains closed to the public.
Address: Jaipur, India
From $ 9
Laxmi Vilas Palace
Built by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III in 1890 (and designed by British architect Major Charles Mant), Laxmi Vilas Palace still serves as the residence of the Vadorada royal family. The Indo-Saracenic architectural style of the facade features elements of European, Indian and Islamic traditions, and when it was completed, the palace ranked among the largest private residences in the world.
The equally elaborate interiors feature beautiful mosaics, including a Venetian mosaic floor in the Durbar Hall laid by the Murano Company of Venice over a period of 18 months. Carrara marble, Italian sculptures by Signor Fellicci, stained glass windows from England, paintings of Raja Ravi Varma and Venetian chandeliers put the finishing touches on this magnificent Raj-era palace. The landscaped gardens also house the small Maharaja Fatesingh Museum, worth a visit if you’re already at the palace.
Practical Info
Download an English audio tour on your smart phone before your visit for a self-guided Royal Tour of the grounds.
Address: J.N. Marg, Vadodara, Gujarat, India, India
Hours: Open Tues-Sun 10am-5pm
Admission: 170 rupees
From $ 83
ISKCON Temple of Mumbai
Set within four acres, the ISKCON (International Society for Krishna Consciousness) Temple of Mumbai is dedicated to Lord Krishna and is located in the Juhu area of the city. The temple was established by Swami Prabhupada at the end of the 1970s, with the aim to spread the word of Krishna consciousness.
The interior is adorned with a variety of colorful and intricate paintings and statues, making it a captivating place to visit aesthetically as well as spiritually. A number of cultural, spiritual, and educational activities take place at the temple, which visitors can either participate in or simply observe. The ISKCON Temple, however, is mainly used by devotees and visitors as a place for prayer, chanting, and meditation, with many arriving daily from all over the world to chant the mahamantra and take part in the temple’s evening prayers and bhajans.
Practical Info
The ISKCON Temple of Mumbai can be easily reached by train. Andheri is the nearest station, while Ville Parle station is also close by. Auto-rickshaws or taxis can be hired to reach the temple from outside both these stations.
Address: Juhu Church Road, Mumbai, India
From $ 95
Humayun's Tomb
Built in 1570, Humayun’s Tomb was the first garden tomb on the Indian subcontinent, earning it a spot on the UNESCO World Heritage list. The construction of the tomb, ordered by the widow of Mughal emperor Humayun over a decade after his death, marked the beginning of an era of Mughal architecture, a style characterized by symmetry, scale and intricate decoration. This sixteenth century tomb went on to inspire the design of the Taj Mahal more than 100 years later.
The red sandstone and marble structure sits within a symmetrical square garden divided into four parts. The garden, dotted with small pools joined by channels, also contains several other tombs of important figures, including Haji Begum -- the wife who built the tomb and mother of Emperor Akbar -- and Isa Khan Niazi, an Afghan noble.
While it’s possible to visit Humayun’s Tomb on your own, you’ll do yourself a great service by bringing along a guide who can tell you more about the history behind each structure.
The red sandstone and marble structure sits within a symmetrical square garden divided into four parts. The garden, dotted with small pools joined by channels, also contains several other tombs of important figures, including Haji Begum -- the wife who built the tomb and mother of Emperor Akbar -- and Isa Khan Niazi, an Afghan noble.
While it’s possible to visit Humayun’s Tomb on your own, you’ll do yourself a great service by bringing along a guide who can tell you more about the history behind each structure.
Address: Agra, India
Hours: Open Sunrise to Sunset
From $ 8
ISKCON Temple of New Delhi
Delhi’s ISKCON Temple is a large, contemporary temple complex that features a modern take on an eclectic array of traditional Indian architectural styles. It's the local hub of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (aka the Hare Krishnas) and provides a good introduction to Vedic beliefs, especially for Westerners.
The Basics
Along with a main temple and multiple shrines, this large complex features a restaurant, multiple bookstores, and a Vedic museum featuring a robotics show, an art gallery, and a "quadroscope," a sort of video globe showing an animated video about the sacred Bhagavad Gita text. It's a popular stop on South Delhi tours and is frequently visited in conjunction with the nearby Baha'i House of Worship, the Lotus Temple.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The ISKCON Temple of New Delhi is a must-visit for those interested in spirituality and local culture.
- Remember to dress modestly, with clothes that cover shoulders and knees.
- Shoes aren’t allowed in the shrines, but you can leave your shoes at a secure shoe-check area.
How to Get There
The ISKCON Temple is located in eastern South Delhi, within a 20-minute walk from both the Lotus Temple and the Shri Kalkaji Mandir. It’s about a 20-minute drive from Connaught Place, Delhi’s de facto city center, though the trip can take considerably longer during periods of dense traffic. The nearest metro stop is at Nehru Place (a 14-minute walk away), which connects to central Delhi via the Violet Line.
When to Get There
The ISKCON complex is open throughout the year, from early morning until well into the evening, though the main temple hall closes for a few hours in the middle of the day. Prayer ceremonies, lectures, and devotional chanting sessions take place throughout the day, with special programs on key religious holidays, such as Krishna Janmashtami (which honors the birth of Lord Krishna, in August or September) and Holi (the festival of colors, in February or March).
Govinda’s Restaurant
ISKCON is known for its food, and The Higher Taste cookbook is one of their most popular publications. You can try many of their dishes at the Delhi temple’s Govinda’s Restaurant, which offers around 18 different dishes daily at lunch and dinner, served buffet style. All of the food here is vegetarian (without eggs) and cooked without garlic or onions or excessive spice, and many of the options are vegan.
Address: India
From $ 21
Mount Mary Church
One of the most famous churches in Mumbai and arguably all of India, Mount Mary Church is a Roman Catholic Basilica known for being the site of feast of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the subsequent Bandra Fair. The tall steeples sit on a hill overlooking the sea and draws in thousands of pilgrims and devotees of all faiths. Once a simple shrine, it is now a semi-Gothic structure with stone pillars and twin bell towers. It is unique to see such a central house of worship for Christianity in a country that has a large Hindu majority.
The church’s interior has a nave with teak-wood detailing and Mangalore tiles, as well as altars and a domed sanctuary. In one of the world’s busiest and most bustling cities, the church is a respite of peace and calm for many.
Practical Info
Mount Mary Church is located in the Bandra area of Mumbai. Mass takes place four to six times daily, and is free to all to enter. The closest railway stop is the historic Bandra Station. The Feast of the Blessed Virgin Mary takes place annually on September 8th, with the Bandra Fair taking place the week after.
Address: Basilica of Our Lady of the Mount,, Bandra West, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
Hours: 8am-8:30pm
From $ 95
Jagannath Temple Puri
Located in Puri on the eastern coast of India, Jagannath Temple Puri has a history dating back to the eleventh century, when it was built under the direction of King Anantavarman Chodaganga Deva. The temple is part of the Char Dham, a series of our pilgrimage sites every Hindu is supposed to visit during their lifetime.
Worshippers come to the inner sanctum of the temple to honor the god Jagannath, an avatar of Vishnu, as well as Subhadra (the younger sister of Krishna in the epic Mahabharata) and Balarama (the older brother of Krishna and an avatar of Shesha). During Rath Yatra, the temple’s most important festival, the trinity of deities are paraded to nearby Gundicha Temple, where they remain for nine days before the parade back to Jagannath Temple.
Typical of Orissan temples of the time, Jagannath Temple features a series of ornate, pyramid-like towers called shikharas. The tallest tower, which rises above the inner sanctum, measures 214 feet (65 meters).
Practical Info
While only Hindus are allowed inside the temple’s inner sanctum, visitors can still enjoy the intricate temple architecture from the outside.
Address: Grand Road, Puri, Odisha, India
From $ 77
Jaigarh Fort
Although Jaigarh Fort is often overlooked by tourists in favor of the better-known Amber Fort nearby, this majestic garrison in the Aravalli Range is certainly worth a visit, particularly for anyone with an interest in military history. The 18th-century red sandstone structure is also considered among the best-preserved old fortresses in India.
The Basics
Jaigarh in its present incarnation dates back to 1726 under Maharaja Jai Singh II, and though it was named for the ruler, it also means “fort of victory” (“jai” means victory and “garh” means fort). It’s particularly significant to those with an interest in the military, and the fort has an armory full of old weapons, including plenty of cannons. There’s also a museum with memorabilia from the local royal family.
A variety of half- and full-day tours visit Jaigarh Fort, including group and private sightseeing trips by air, car, and jeep.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Wear comfortable shoes for navigating the sprawling grounds of the fort.
- The fort has lots of open, high-elevation spaces, so don’t forget sunscreen and a hat.
- There's an on-site restaurant offering simple North Indian meals and snacks.
How to Get There
Jaigarh is located off the road leading from the Jaipur city center to Amber. Getting to the top requires taking a taxi up a windy road full of hairpin turns; travelers can also climb up on foot, but the trip takes a good 20 minutes and may require staving off pesky monkeys. Many Jaipur and Rajasthan sightseeing tours include stops at the fort and usually drop you right in front, saving you a steep climb.
When to Get There
Jaigarh is open throughout the year, though it's best visited first thing in the morning, before the heat of the day makes visiting the open, exposed grounds less than pleasant. Note that Jaipur is at its most comfortable during the cool winter months of December and January and can become unbearably hot during May and June.
The Cannons of Jaigarh
Jaigarh once housed a gigantic cannon foundry (when India was under Mughal rule), and the many cannons here are among the fort’s biggest draw. The most famous of Jaigarh’s cannons is the Jaivana, which has a 55-ton (50,000-kilogram) barrel and is purported to be the world’s largest cannon on wheels.
Address: Jaipur, India
Admission: Varies
From $ 9
Jagdish Temple
Jagdish Temple—in the heart of Udaipur's Old City—is a stone's throw from the City Palace. This 3-story structure dates back to 1651 and its architecture is the main draw. Its intricately sculpted bell roof and columns are stunning but it's also worth sticking around to listen to devotional singing—a regular feature here.
The Basics
Most visitors to Udaipur pay at least a cursory visit to the Jagdish Temple, and it's a major stop on most half- and full-day guided tours of the city. Interesting features include a large brass image of Garuda, the half-man, half-eagle steed of the Hindu Lord Vishnu, and the 100-odd pillars depicting scenes from Hindu mythology. Just outside the temple is a slab of marble believed to have curative properties against aches and pains.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The temple is a must-visit for those interested in architecture, history, or religion.
- Remember to wear clothes covering your knees and shoulders.
- Shoes must be removed before entering the temple.
- Entering the temple requires climbing a steep marble staircase with 32 steps.
How to Get There
Jagdish Temple is located in the heart of the Old City of Udaipur, a 2-minute walk from the ticket counter for the City Palace and on the southern end of Chand Pol Bazaar. It's a quick walk from the banks of Lake Pichola, while getting to the Udaipur City railway station in the heart of the busy city center takes about 10 to 15 minutes by car.
When to Get There
The best time to visit Udaipur is between November and February, when temperatures are at their coolest. Things begin to heat up in March and really peak toward the end of May and into June. Monsoons in late June through September cools things down a bit, despite the fact that Udaipur gets less rainfall than many other parts of Northern India, due to its desert climate.
Who is Jagdish?
As the name suggests, this temple is dedicated to Jagdish, a form of the Hindu deity Vishnu more commonly known as Jagannath. He's often associated with Lord Krishna (also an avatar of Vishnu) and is frequently depicted as a black stone, as is the case at the Udaipur Jagdish Temple.
Address: City Palace Complex, Udaipur, Rajasthan 313001, India
From $ 7
Indira Gandhi Musical Fountain
This large computerized musical fountain, named after India’ s only female Prime Minister, is the first of its kind in India. It has been delighting visitors with water synchronized to dance rhythmically with music since its construction in 1975.
With a hydraulic pumping system that controls three distinct levels and recycles the water, the fountains produce a show of color, light, and sound that is a unique visual experience. There is a seating capacity of around 900 people, with an average of 500 visiting on weekends. Laser lights and a wide screen with additional visuals provide a multimedia backdrop to the water formations.
With over 1,000 different nozzles, the fountain can make 15 different formations and 27 different rhythmic combinations — so its unlikely you’ll see the same show twice. There is also a garden and a small park for children to play beside the fountain area.
Practical Info
Two shows are held daily at 7 and 8 p.m., each lasting a half hour. Fountains do not run on Mondays. It is located on T. Chowdaiah Road, across from the Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium. Admission is 10 Indian Rupees for adults and 5 Indian Rupees for children ages 6-12. Parking is available.
Address: T. Chowdaiah Road, Bangalore, India
Hours: Tues-Sun at 7 and 8 p.m.
Admission: Adults: 10 rupees Children (6-12) 5 rupees
From $ 75
Innovative Film City
This movie studio-themed amusement park — a popular family outing in the area — offers quite the variety of activities. What the park is lacking in traditional theme park rides, it makes up for in variety; there’s a cartoon-themed area populated by giant versions of popular Indian animated characters, water park, mini golf course, Dino Park with life-sized replicas, petting zoo, mirror maze, haunted house and even a traditional “talkies” movie house.
Four small museums display fossils, wax figures, Indian tribal art and general oddities, and the popular Bigg Boss Tour takes visitors behind-the-scenes of India’s famous reality television show. For an extra fee, visitors can try go karting, dirt biking, zip lining, mechanical bull riding or even cricket playing.
Practical Info
The entrance fee to Innovative Film City is discounted after 3pm — a worthwhile discount if you’re only planning to spend a few hours there anyway.
Address: 24 & 26, Bidadi Industrial Estate, Bangalore, India
Hours: 10am to 7pm
Admission: 599 rupees
From $ 7
Lodi Gardens
Spread out over 90 acres (36 hectares), Lodi Gardens is a gorgeous and lush park full of meandering pathways, beautiful greenery, and four Lodi dynasty tombs. Many locals and visitors alike find refuge here from the dust and noise of Delhi, and you’re likely to come across picnickers, joggers, and elderly Delhiites on morning walks.
The Basics
Lodi Gardens (also spelled Lodhi Gardens) is one of the best maintained parks in Delhi, with lots of benches and plenty of green space for spreading out picnic blankets. For many visitors, the biggest draw is the park’s four beautifully maintained domed tombs, including the mausoleums of Mohammed Shah (which dates to 1444) and Sikander Lodi, and the 15th-century Bara Gumbad tomb. The gardens are also popular with runners, as the grounds are laced with meandering trails.
While the Archaeological Society of India has provided signboards with details about the tombs, the park is best explored with a guide. Many Delhi sightseeing and heritage tours visit the park, walking tours offer in-depth details about the gardens’ history, and yoga and meditation tours give an energetic boost to your morning.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Lodi Gardens is ideal for picnickers, joggers, and anyone seeking a green oasis within the crowded city.
- Bring comfortable footwear for exploring the tombs, as the stairs leading up to them can be uneven.
- There are usually plenty of vendors selling chips, ice cream, and bottled water in the park. Other services include well-maintained public toilets.
- Lodi Gardens is accessible to wheelchair users and strollers, though some tombs are not due to stairs.
How to Get There
The gardens’ main entrance is on Lodhi Road, about a 15-minute walk from Khan Market, and a 5- to 10-minute walk east of Sri Aurobindo Marg and Safdarjung’s Tomb (which is often visited on tours in conjunction with the garden). The nearest metro station is Jorbagh, a 12-minute walk away, which connects to Central Delhi’s Rajiv Chowk (Connaught Place) on the Yellow Line. Parking is limited here, so it’s best to ride public transport, take a taxi, or visit with a tour.
When to Get There
Like all outdoor attractions in New Delhi, it’s best to visit Lodi Gardens during winter and avoid the hottest months of the year (May and June). It can get muggy and muddy here during the rainy season (July and August). If you come to jog, come at sunrise or sunset when the temperatures are more manageable; just note that you’ll likely be sharing the paths with plenty of local runners.
The Birds of Lodi Gardens
Lodi Gardens is home to a huge variety of avian species. A signboard at the park’s southern entrance details the birds you might see, including green parakeets, woodpeckers, swifts, common hawks, pigeons, and bulbuls. If you're lucky, you may also spot species such as the white-breasted kingfisher or even the Indian grey hornbill, named for their strikingly bulbous beaks.
Address: Khan Market, New Delhi, DL, India
From $ 14
ISKCON Temple
High on a hilltop in the north of Bangalore, the ISKCON (International Society for Krishna Consciousness) temple is one of the organization's largest complexes on earth and one of Bangalore's most popular Hindu places of worship. Unlike many of the temples in the city, this one features contemporary architecture and modern interiors.
The Basics
Built in 1997, this enormous temple complex atop a 7-acre (3-hectare) hill is a popular stop on pilgrimages and most city tours. The complex has six shrines, a gold-plated flag post, and various shops selling snacks and religious materials. Daily activities include worship, philosophy talks, and devotional chanting. The temple also runs a variety of special programs for Hindu festivals and other important holidays.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The temple is a great place to visit for those interested in religion and local culture.
- Note that the temple closes a few hours daily for lunch; check ahead for timings.
- Dress conservatively and be prepared to take off your shoes before entering.
How to Get There
The ISKCON Temple is located in the Rajajinagar area of North Bangalore on Chord Road. It’s about 6 miles (10 kilometers) northwest of the city center. The nearest metro station is Mahalakshmi, a 5-minute walk from the temple. The Green Line runs south into the city from here, connecting to the Purple Line at Nadaprabhu Kempegowda Station; for Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace and Bangalore Fort, get off at Krishna Rajendra Market.
When to Get There
The temple is open daily, from early morning until well in the evening, with breaks for lunch on weekdays. It's a year-round attraction, though the most atmospheric time to visit is when the temple community is celebrating one of many Hindu festivals, such as Deepotsava (Diwali) in October or November or Holi (the festival of colors) in early spring.
Hare Krishnas
Adherents of ISKCON are often known in the West as Hare Krishnas for their frequent use of the Hare Krishna mantra. Although the organization has a large presence in India, it was originally founded in the US in the 1960s by A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, an Indian renunciate who played a major role in promoting Indian philosophy in the West, at the peak of the counterculture movement of the '60s and '70s.
Address: Chord Rd, Rajaji Nagar, Bangalore, Karnataka, India 560010, India
From $ 33
Mubarak Mahal
The Mubarak Mahal, or Welcome Palace, was originally constructed in the late 19th century as a reception hall for foreign dignitaries. Today, this part of Jaipur’s City Palace houses the Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II Museum, which showcases royal family artifacts including weaponry and regal garments.
The Basics
This impressive structure sits on a raised platform and features an elegant blend of Mughal and Rajput architectural influences. Inside, on the ground floor, is a museum full of beautiful old textiles and costumes, including a number of brocaded and embroidered garments worn by kings and queens of days past.
The Mubarak Mahal is one of the most popular sections of the City Palace, and nearly all tours of Jaipur (including half-day and full-day tours, plus Golden Triangle tours that visit Jaipur and Agra) and of the City Palace itself give visitors time to explore it. Going with a guide can be useful for those wanting a deeper understanding of the palace.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Mubarak Mahal—and the entire City Palace complex—is a must for all first-time visitors to Jaipur.
- Photography is not allowed inside the Mubarak Mahal.
- Much of the City Palace is outdoors and can get sunny, so bring sun protection.
- The City Palace has many facilities, including multiple gift shops and eateries.
- Most of the City Palace is accessible to wheelchair users. For details, contact the site in advance or inquire at the ticket office upon arrival.
How to Get There
The Mubarak Mahal is inside the City Palace, one of the top sights in Jaipur’s Pink City and easy to access on foot; it’s situated right next to the Jantar Mantar observatory and a short walk from the iconic Hawa Mahal. Driving, it’s 30 minutes from Amber Fort (Amer Fort) and five hours from Delhi. Trains from Delhi take 4.5 to 6 hours to reach Jaipur.
When to Get There
Jaipur’s City Palace is open daily except for on the second day of Holi. In the hottest months of the year (April through October), come early in the day to avoid oppressive heat. Note that although Rajasthan stays relatively dry during India’s monsoon rainy season (late June through August), it’s still quite balmy.
Textiles of Rajasthan
The Mubarak Mahal features a lovely selection of old textiles, and a visit here may inspire you to go pick up some Rajasthani textiles of your own. You will find a huge assortment of local fabrics in the markets and shops around the City Palace. For something authentic and unusual, look for leheriya or bandhani items, both of which use tie-dye techniques to achieve a mix of white and colorful patterns.
Address: Jaipur, India
Admission: Varies
From $ 100
Jallianwala Bagh
Jallianwala Bagh is a public garden in the northern city of Amritsar in India’s Punjab province. It serves to commemorate the massacre of hundreds of innocent civilians celebrating the religious festival, Baisakhi on April 13, 1919. Under orders from Commander General Dyer, British soldiers opened fire at a group of unarmed men, women, and children without warning. Official sources estimated the fatalities at 379, with 1,100 wounded. However, both the casualties and fatalities of that day are believed to be significantly higher than that which was officially reported.
The garden span 26 square meters with the memorial monument, the Flame of Liberty, at its center. Inaugurated by Dr Rajendra Prasad in 1961, the first President of the Republic of India, the monument is a towering pylon made of red stone and featuring the the Indian national emblem upon it. Stone lanterns stand at each corner of the monument, which are inscribed with words of homage in Hindi, Punjabi, Urdu, and English to commemorate the victims of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. Dignitaries, locals, and tourists from around the world have visited Jallianwala Bagh, including Queen Elizabeth II in 1997.
Practical Info
Jallianwala Bagh is situated in the city of Amritsar, which is also home to the Golden Temple, a significant Sikh place of worship.
Address: Golden Temple Road, Amritsar, Punjab 143001, India
Hours: 6:30am - 7:30pm
From $ 34
Little Mount & St Thomas Mount (Chinnamalai & Parangi Malai)
According to legend, St Thomas, a disciple of Christ, lived out the remainder of his days in a rocky cave, known as Little Mount (Chinnamalai). A small opening near the cave is supposedly the tunnel exit that St Thomas escaped from when fleeing from his assailants. He fled to St Thomas Mount (Parangi Malai), just under 2 miles (3 kilometers) away from Little Mount, where he was later martyred while praying on top of the hill in 72 AD.
Today, Little Mount is home to a Portuguese church dating back to 1551, as well as a small alter to St Thomas in the rocky cave opening and a palm print believed by some to be left by Thomas himself as he fled. Reaching the Church of Our Lady of Expectation, built in 1523 on St Thomas Mount, requires climbing 135 steps with the Stations of the Cross along the way. A stone cross that was excavated by the Portuguese in 1547 was inlaid into the wall of the church’s altar.
Today, Little Mount is home to a Portuguese church dating back to 1551, as well as a small alter to St Thomas in the rocky cave opening and a palm print believed by some to be left by Thomas himself as he fled. Reaching the Church of Our Lady of Expectation, built in 1523 on St Thomas Mount, requires climbing 135 steps with the Stations of the Cross along the way. A stone cross that was excavated by the Portuguese in 1547 was inlaid into the wall of the church’s altar.
Address: Chennai, India
From $ 30
Jai Vilas Palace
This 19th century palace was built in the late 1800s and served as a home to members of the Maratha Scindia dynasty. Travelers who venture to this regal destination will find plenty of Indian history and European architecture that’s worth exploring.
Forty of Jai Vilas Palace’s 400 rooms have been transformed into a remarkable museum that showcases the history, culture and daily lifestyle of old-school India’s royal elite. History-loving travelers will enjoy wandering the gilded halls filled with fine furniture, stunning chandeliers and photographs.
Practical Info
Jai Vilas Palace is located in Gwailor. It is home to what is believed to be one of the largest chandeliers in the world.
Address: Gwalior, India
From $ 95
Indo-Portuguese Museum
The Indo-Portuguese Museum was set up by the late Bishop of Kochi to preserve and showcase the significant influence of the Portuguese Catholic community in Fort Kochi and its surrounding areas. It depicts the art, architecture, and culture of this community and is a popular attraction for visitors to Kochi.
The museum is divided into five main sections, each relating to the particular type of artefacts on display. These sections are: Altar, Treasure, Procession, Civil Life and Cathedral. It’s home to some well-known collections of artistic and architectural merit, all of which bear the mark of Portuguese influence. Some of the most famous and interesting pieces include part of a teak-wood church altar from the 16th century, a 19th-century chasuble, a processional cross made from silver and wood, and the notable Coat of Arms of the Franciscans.
Practical Info
The Indo-Portuguese Museum is located inside the grounds of the Bishop's House in Fort Kochi. The nearest railway station is Ernakulam around 12 kilometers away but it’s easily reachable from almost anywhere in the Fort Kochi area. Opening hours are 10am to 5pm daily, although the museum is closed on Mondays and public holidays. There is a small entrance fee most days, with free entry on the first Thursday of every month.
Address: Bishop Kureethara Rd, Kochi, Kerala, India 682001, India
From $ 35
India Gate
India Gate is a 138-foot (42-meter) war memorial in the heart of New Delhi, reminiscent of Paris’ Arc de Triomphe. Built in 1931 and designed by British architect Sir Edwin Lutyens, designer of most of New Delhi, it’s a must-visit photo stop on a Delhi tour.
The Basics
The India Gate was built to commemorate Indian members of the British Indian Army killed during World War I and the Third Anglo-Afghan War. In the 1970s, the eternal flame (Amar Jawan Jyoti) was added to remember Indians who died in the Indo-Pakistan War. Around 13,000 soldiers’ names are inscribed on the gate.
The gate is popular among both local and international visitors. Usually visited on half- and full-day sightseeing tours of Delhi, it’s a particularly attractive place to take photos. It doesn’t take long to see the gate itself, so a visit here is best combined with a fuller sightseeing trip that may also call on the Red Fort, Lotus Temple, Humayun’s Tomb, Qutub Minar, and other sites.
Thing to Know Before You Go
- It’s free to visit India Gate.
- Festive parks surrounding the gate are a good place for kids to run around and explore.
- The traffic around India Gate can be heavy and fast, and there are few clear places to cross. Follow your guide’s instructions on the best way to cross the road.
- Beware of touts asking tourists for donations for “charities.” Most of these are not genuine, and it’s best to politely but firmly tell them “no, thanks” and move on.
How to Get There
India Gate is located on Rajpath in New Delhi, in a part of the city that’s mainly administrative. It’s not a great place to walk around due to the fast traffic and large distances between points of interest. The nearest metro stations are Khan Market and Udyog Bhawan, where you can hire auto-rickshaws to India Gate.
When to Get There
You can tour India Gate at any time, but at night, when it is lit up, is a particularly attractive time to visit. If you’re booking a private sightseeing tour, request to see India Gate after dark. During India Republic Day (January 26), the streets around it get very busy with crowds and military parades.
Touring Lutyens’ Delhi
Lutyens designed much of New Delhi in the 1920s–1940s and gave the capital’s administrative areas their character. Touring the parts of Delhi designed by Lutyens is a good way to learn about the colonial history and architecture of the city. Also visit Connaught Place and Rashtrapati Bhawan. Private tour packages can be designed around the theme of Lutyens’ Delhi.
Address: Rajpath, New Delhi, DL 110001, India
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