Choose from 274 Fun Things to Do in India
ShowingFilter 241-260 of 274 listings.
Sarnath
Sarnath is a small town in Uttar Pradesh, situated 13 kilometers from the holy city of Varanasi. As the place where Gautama Buddha first taught the Dharma, and also where the original Sangha was formed, Sarnath is one of the four major Buddhist pilgrimage destinations in India.
It is said that the Buddha went from Bodh Gaya to the now famous deer park in Sarnath around five weeks after his enlightenment to give his first sermon to his five disciples, Kaundinya, Bashpa, Bhadrika, Mahanama, and Ashvajit.
Within the deer park complex is the large Dhamek Stupa, constructed by the Emperor Ashoka in 249 BC to commemorate his pilgrimage there. It is said that this stupa marks the exact spot where the Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. There are also several other ancient Buddhist structures in the park, along with a museum – the Sarnath Archaeological Museum – which houses a small collection of artefacts exhumed from across the site.
Practical Info
Sarnath is easily reached by taxi or auto-rickshaw from Varanasi. If coming from further afield, the nearest train station is Varanasi Cantt, which is connected to most major cities in India (Sarnath does have a small train station, but very few trains stop there).
Address: Sarnath, India
From $ 8
Tipu Sultan's Palace
Built in the late 18th century, Tipu Sultan’s Palace served as a retreat for Mysore’s ruler. This beautiful teak structure—once part of Bangalore Fort—attracts visitors with its beautiful Indo-Islamic architecture, interior frescoes, and selection of ephemera, including Tipu Sultan images along with his robes and a crown.
The Basics
One of Bangalore's most popular attractions and a major stop on most Bangalore city tours, this beautiful palace is built entirely from teak wood, with two floors of pillars, archways, and balconies. While visitors generally come to gawk at the architecture and beautifully adorned interiors, the ground-floor museum is equally worth visiting. Don’t miss the replica of Tipu’s Tiger, an automaton toy depicting a tiger eating a soldier (the original is in the Victoria and Albert Museum in London).
Things to Know Before You Go
- The palace is a must-visit for history buffs and art and architecture lovers.
- Families with small kids beware: There's a toy on display here depicting a soldier being eaten by a tiger that could either enthrall or terrify little ones.
- The palace is not suitable for wheelchair users.
How to Get There
Tipu Sultan’s Palace is located at the intersection of Krisnarajendra and Alur Venkata Rao roads in Chamrajpet, a short walk from the City Market and Bangalore Fort. It's about a 10-minute drive to Cubbon Park and a 15-minute drive to Bangalore station. Bangalore is well-connected to airports across India and has regular international flights from elsewhere in Asia and Europe.
When to Get There
The palace is open daily, though arriving first thing in the morning is recommended to avoid crowds. The palace itself remains cool, but travelers planning on spending time exploring the surrounding area on foot should take weather into consideration. The coolest months are November through January, while April and May can get fairly hot. Monsoon rains in June–August deter many travelers from visiting India, though it’s also during this time that crowds are lightest.
Tipu Sultan: The Tiger of Mysore
Tipu Sultan was an important ruler of Mysore, notable for making numerous changes during his reign, from pioneering rocket artillery to laying the foundation for Mysore's silk industry. He used the tiger as his symbol and was sometimes referred to the Tiger of Mysore; according to legend, he killed a tiger attacking him using only a dagger.
Address: Albert Victor Road, Chamrajpet, Bangalore, Karnataka 560018, India
Admission: Varies
From $ 33
Yogmaya Temple
This off-the-beaten track temple is located in Mehrauli, near the famous Qutub Minar. It's dedicated to the pure goddess Yogmaya (aka Jogmaya), the sister of Lord Krishna's (an incarnation of Vishnu). Although the temple in its present state dates back to the 19th century, there have been ancient temples here for many centuries prior.
The Basics
With its roof of white domes and beautifully carved exteriors, this Hindu temple—also known as the Jogmaya Temple—is worth a visit for its beautiful architecture alone. Devotees regularly offer flowers and other gifts to the main idol, particularly during the twice-annual Navratri celebrations, dedicated to the goddess Devi in her many forms.
While devout Indian Hindus often come to this part of town specifically for the temple, most international visitors stop by as part of a larger tour of Mehrauli’s temples, or tick it off after a visit to the nearby UNESCO World Heritage Site of Qutub Minar.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Make sure to wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees out of respect for local tradition.
- It’s customary, but not required, to leave a small donation at temples, so bring some change.
- Be prepared to remove your footwear before entering the temple.
How to Get There
The Yogmaya Mandir is located in the South Delhi village of Mehrauli, due east of the Qutub Minar. The nearest metro station is at Saket, but it's still around a half-hour walk away, and it's generally easier to visit this temple by taxi or as part of an organized tour.
When to Get There
The Yogmaya Temple is open throughout the year, though it’s always more pleasant to visit New Delhi attractions during the cooler winter months. If you happen to be in town during the hottest months of May and June, you may wish to visit early in the day or around sunset, just before the temple closes for daily aarti prayer ceremonies.
Phoolwalon-Ki-Sair Festival
Held every autumn since 1812, Phool Walon Ki Sair is a secular festival in which flower sellers (Hindus and Muslims alike) join together in a procession from Yogmaya Temple, through Mehrauli, to the shrine of Sufi saint Khwaja Bakhtiyar Kaki. The incumbent prime minister usually joins in the festivities, and the government has taken an active role in its promotion, inviting musicians and performers from across India to showcase their regional traditions.
Address: Qutub-Mehrauli Road, Mehrauli, New Delhi, India
From $ 50
Sajjangarh Palace (Monsoon Palace)
Sajjangarh Palace (known as the Monsoon Palace) is set on a hilltop with fantastic city views. It was originally built as a getaway during the monsoon season and as an astrological center, but the latter project was never finished. The palace has also been used as a royal hunting lodge, and even appeared in the James Bond film Octopussy.
The Basics
High on a hilltop, about 1,100 feet (335 meters) above Lake Pichola, Sajjangarh Palace offers some of the best views in Udaipur. This nine-story palace is made from white marble, carved with intricate floral designs. Most visits take place during the day, as part of a tour of Udaipur, but the palace is a sight to behold when viewed from a distance at night, when it's illuminated with dozens of floodlights.
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Things to Know Before You Go
- Sajjangarh Palace is a must-visit for architecture lovers and history buffs.
- Wear comfortable shoes and sunscreen.
- This sight is not suitable for wheelchair users.
How to Get There
The Monsoon Palace is located up a steep, winding road, just outside of Udaipur's main city, and it's only accessible by motor vehicle (auto rickshaws are not allowed). Getting there from city center locations such as the City Palace or railway station takes about a half-hour by car.
When to Get There
Udaipur’s weather is most pleasant between November and February, when the sun is not as bright or strong. The hottest months are May and June, and the monsoon from late June through August can make the city feel gloomy (though heavy rainfall usually isn’t an issue here). The palace is open daily 9am to 6pm.
Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary
The palace is surrounded by the beautifully preserved Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary, which wraps around the palace and is hemmed in by the Kishan Pol wall. Ironically, the area was previously a shooting reserve, though today the many creatures here, including jackals, wild boars, reptiles, and even tigers and panthers, are protected.
Address: Udaipur, Rajasthan, India, India
Admission: Varies
From $ 14
Santa Cruz Basilica
Santa Cruz Basilica is notable for its Gothic architecture, with a whitewashed façade and beautiful interiors, with intricate pastel frescoes and paintings, and large stained glass windows. While it’s a popular attraction, it’s also a working church and the Sunday mass services here provide a great insight into local Catholic culture.
The Basics
One of the prettiest churches in Fort Kochi, Santa Cruz Basilica stands on the site of an old Portuguese church by the same name, though its current incarnation only dates back to the turn of the 20th century. Its stunning architecture and beautiful interiors, coupled with its location right in the heart of the Fort Kochi area, means it’s a popular stop on most tours of the old city. Arrive on foot or via private tuk tuk.
Things to Know Before You Go
- A must-visit for art and architecture lovers.
- Make sure to wear clothing that covers your knees and shoulders out of respect for local tradition.
- Most of the church is wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
The basilica is located in the Fort Kochi area of Kochi, a charming and historic area filled with old Dutch buildings, many of which have been converted to boutique hotels. The area is easy to walk around and attractions are well signposted. Kochi is west of the mainland city of Ernakulam and it takes at least a half-hour to get there, depending on traffic. If not traveling independently, arrive via a tour that includes round-trip transportation.
When to Get There
Santa Cruz Basilica is a working church and thus is open throughout the year, with services on Sundays and special holidays. The high season for visiting Kochi is during the winter months (December through February) when there’s not much rainfall and temperatures are relatively cool. However, it’s also the busiest time, especially when compared to the rainy June through November season or the sweltering summer (March through May).
The Art of Antonio Moscheni
The church features a gorgeous altar decorated by Antonio Moscheni, an Italian-born painter who created frescoes in churches across Southern India as well as in Croatia and Albania. He joined the Jesuits in his mid-30s and moved to India to paint the Chapel of St. Aloysius College in Mangalore, his best-known work.
Address: Bastion Street, Fort Cochin, India
From $ 22
Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah
Nicknamed the Baby Taj, the Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah in Agra was built from 1622 to 1628 by the daughter of Mizra Ghiyas Beg, the Persian nobleman entombed within the marble structure. While not as jaw-dropping as the Taj Mahal, this smaller tomb has many connections to its more famous counterpart. As a forerunner to the Taj Mahal, the Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah was innovative for its time -- it was the first Mughal structure made entirely out of marble.
The two structures also have a personal connection. Mizra Ghiyas Beg was the grandfather of Mumtaz Mahal, for whom the Taj Mahal was built.
While smaller than the Taj, this tomb is arguably more delicate and ornate. The inlays, mosaics and marble lattice screens likely served as inspiration to Shah Jahan, and it’s possible to see them up close without the crowds that often plague the Taj Mahal. It’s a place most travelers to Agra never see, but it’s well worth a visit.
Address: Agra, India
Hours: Daily Sunrise to Sunset
From $ 28
Tipu's Summer Palace (Daria Daulat Bagh)
Formerly known as Daria Daulat Bagh, Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace was built in 1784 in honor of Tipu Sultan's military victory over the British. This elegant palace, built almost entirely from fine teakwood, is an earlier example of Indo-Saracenic architecture, which features a blend of Indian, Islamic, and European elements.
The Basics
The palace's biggest draw is its incredible architecture, with regal arches, towers, and domes covered with images of battle scenes. The interiors are painted with floral patterns, and there's an on-site museum showcasing artillery, coins, military medals, and furniture, along with a collection of oil paintings depicting the sultan and his life. The palace is a popular stop on day trips from Bangalore to Mysore, and many tours of the area stop here.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The summer palace is a must-visit for history buffs and architecture lovers.
- Photography is not allowed inside the palace.
- Remember to wear comfortable shoes for exploring the palace and its grounds.
How to Get There
Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace is located about 80 miles (129 kilometers) southwest of Bangalore and 10 miles (16 kilometers) north of Mysore in the town of Srirangapatna, on the Bangalore–Mysore road. There’s regular bus and train service between the two cities, and most hotels in Mysore and Bangalore can arrange for round-trip transportation by taxi.
When to Get There
The palace is open daily from 9am to 5pm, but it’s best to visit first thing in the morning, when it’s at its least crowded. Weather may also play a factor for the best time to visit; if you’re coming from Mysore or Bangalore during the rainy monsoon season (June through August or September), give yourself a little extra time to get there, as wet roads can slow down traffic.
Mysore Painting
The palace is decorated with frescoes in the Mysore painting style, a form of ancient painting that was revived after Tipu Sultan's rule. The paintings often feature scenes from battles or Hindu mythology and are traditionally painted in steps, starting with the background and later adding elements to the foreground before detailing it with gesso, or gold foil.
Address: Srirangapatna, India
Admission: Varies
From $ 116
Sarojini Nagar Market
Sarojini Nagar Market is one of Delhi’s most popular markets, predominantly specializing in export brand names at extremely low prices. Located to the southwest of the city center, this bustling spot is popular with locals and tourists looking for bargains they can’t get elsewhere.
The market has a vibrant energy about it, and the sheer variety of merchandise on offer means you could easily spend half a day rummaging around its numerous shops and stalls. Discount western-style clothes aren’t the only thing on offer either, with home furnishings, bags, cosmetics, footwear, jewelry, and other accessories all a part of the market’s mix too.
Sarojini Nagar Market is the ideal place for keen shoppers, and can be enjoyed as part of a guided tour of Delhi's markets. As well as having an expert's opinion as you shop and haggle for bargains, this offers the added benefit of being privately transported to several of the city’s other popular markets.
Insider’s Tip: Sarojini Nagar Market is one of the best places in the city to try out your bargaining skills. Haggling for a better price is expected, with savings of up to 50 percent off the asking price to be had, so don’t always accept the first price you’re offered. The first rule of haggling is to keep the exchange positive – a friendly smile can go a long way.
Practical Info
If not arriving as part of an organized tour, you can reach this market by taking the metro to the newly-built Sarojini Nagar station.
Address: Sarojini Nagar, New Delhi, India
Hours: Open Tues-Sun 11am-8pm
From $ 28
Taj Mahal
Widely considered to be one of the most beautiful buildings in the world and certainly one of India’s most famous landmarks, the Taj Mahal is a living testament to the grandiose and the romantic. Lovingly built from white marble by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his favorite wife, the structure is decorated with carvings of flowers and inlays of precious stone arranged into intricate patterns that can be admired both from its impressive exterior and interior. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-see for every traveler to northern India.
The Basics
Tours are available year-round and at all times of the day, and can be customized to your interests and the timing of your visit. The easiest and most popular option for travelers wanting to see the Taj Mahal is to visit on a full-day group tour or in a private car with an English-speaking tour guide and driver, plus roundtrip transportation. Guided tours from both Jaipur and New Delhi abound and often also visit other interesting sights and attractions around Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan, such as Agra Fort, the Red Fort, Akbar’s Tomb at Sikandra, and Fatehpur Sikri. Guided photography tours are a popular option at the Tah Mahal and generally take place either at sunset or sunrise. Other excursions, known as Golden Triangle tours, visit Jaipur, New Delhi, and Agra all in one go.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Taj Mahal is incredibly popular; it’s best to purchase tickets in advance to save time.
- There is no formal dress code, though it is recommended to dress respectfully.
- The Taj Mahal is closed to visitors every Friday, except for those attending prayers.
How to Get There
Located in Agra, the Taj Mahal is easily accessible from New Delhi on a journey of about three hours by road. Agra also has its own airport set just four miles (6.4 kilometers) from the city center that receives domestic flights on a regular basis. The city can be reached from New Delhi by train, but you will need additional local transportation to reach the Taj Mahal from the train station.
When to Get There
The Taj Mahal is open daily from sunrise to sunset. Both sunrise and sunset Taj Mahal tours are extremely popular, given that at these times of day, the sun creates an exquisite reflection upon the palace’s white marble, drenching its surface in red, orange, pink, and golden hues. It’s even possible to see the palace at both sunrise and sunset as part of a full-day tour of Agra that starts and ends at the Taj. Northern India can be hot in summer, so October to March, when the weather is mildest, are considered the best months to visit. Early morning is often the least crowded time of day to see the Taj Mahal.
Photographing the Taj Mahal
Though there is no substitute for seeing the famous Taj Mahal with your own two eyes, it’s a popular spot for photography. Raised on a marble platform, the monument’s only backdrop is the sky, and white minarets flank each of its corners, giving it a three-dimensional effect from each of its perfectly symmetrical sides. The photogenic structure also resides within a pristine Mughal garden. In the center is a raised reflecting pool positioned on a north-south axis so that when its fountains are not flowing, the Taj is perfectly reflected in its waters. Head to Yamuna River for a unique shot of the water in the palace’s foreground.
Address: Dharmapuri, Agra 282001, India
Hours: Sunrise to sunset (closed on Fridays)
Admission: Rs 1000
From $ 22
Thanjavur Royal Palace and Art Gallery
The Royal Palace of Thanjavur was built by the Nayak rulers after they took control of the city in 1535 but was added onto by the Maratha rulers during their rule from 1676 to 1855. The result is a sprawling complex in various states of upkeep. Several areas of the palace are open to visitors in three different ticketed areas.
Just past the ticket office lies the Royal Palace Museum, where ceremonial costumes, weaponry and a few sculptures are on display. The Maharaja Serfoji Memorial Hall commemorates the Maratha scholar-king of the same name, while the Mahratta Dharbar Hall was where the Maratha rulers gave audience — you can still see their portraits behind the dais.
Two of the highlights of the palace complex are the Sarawasti Mahal Library Museum and the Art Gallery. The former displays pieces from Serfoji II’s collection of books, manuscripts and naturalist paintings of Indian plants and animals, while the latter houses a magnificent collection of bronze (mostly Chola) and stone carvings.
Practical Info
The grounds of the royal palace suffer from lack of posted information, so consider visiting with the assistance of a guide who can fill you in on the history and significance of what you’re seeing.
Address: E. Main Rd., Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu 613001, India
Hours: Open daily 9am-6pm
Admission: 150 rupees
From $ 21
Tagore House
Rabindranath Tagore, India’s most celebrated poet and the first non-European to win the Nobel Prize in literature, was born and raised in a yellow mansion in the north of Kolkata (Calcutta) in 1861. His family mansion, built in 1784, now serves as a memorial of his life and work. The university surrounding the Tagore House is now the epicenter for classical Indian fine arts.
The Tagore House, now part of the Rabindra Bharati University Campus, is filled with photographs of the poet, including one with Albert Einstein, as well as paintings by his family members and memorabilia from his life. Quotations from some of Tagore’s most inspiring works adorn the walls. While the maintenance on the home leaves something to be desired, it’s still well worth a visit to gain a better understanding of one of India’s most influential cultural figures.
Be prepared to remove your shoes before entering the home, and keep your cameras tucked away; photography isn’t allowed.
The Tagore House, now part of the Rabindra Bharati University Campus, is filled with photographs of the poet, including one with Albert Einstein, as well as paintings by his family members and memorabilia from his life. Quotations from some of Tagore’s most inspiring works adorn the walls. While the maintenance on the home leaves something to be desired, it’s still well worth a visit to gain a better understanding of one of India’s most influential cultural figures.
Be prepared to remove your shoes before entering the home, and keep your cameras tucked away; photography isn’t allowed.
Address: 246D, Rabindra Sarani, Rabindra Bharati University, BBD Bagh, Kolkata, India
Hours: Tues-Sun: 10:30am-4:30pm
Admission: Indians: Rs 10, Students: Rs 5; Foreigners: Rs 50, Students: Rs 25
From $ 98
Worlds of Wonder
Park of Noida’s Entertainment City, Worlds of Wonder comprises two separate parks, an amusement park and a water park. Visitors to the amusement park section have their choice of 20 rides and attractions, ranging from kid-friendly chair swings, paddle boats, bumper cars and a mini train to more thrilling options, like roller coasters and a drop tower.
The Worlds of Wonder Water Park has 26 slides and water features. Highlights include a free fall body slide, toboggan racers, a family raft ride and a wave pool.
Both parks offer a few different dining options, like North Indian specialties at Punjabi Dhaba, South Indian cuisine at Madras Cafe and, for those looking for something more familiar, North India’s largest McDonald’s.
Practical Info
If you’re planning to visit both the amusement park and water park on the same day, be sure to buy a Super Saver ticket for a better rate.
Address: Sec-38 A, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India, India
Hours: Open daily 10:30am-7pm
Admission: Adults: 690; Children: 450 rupees
From $ 11
Swaminarayan Akshardham
One of Delhi’s biggest, newest, and most grandiose attractions, Swaminarayan Akshardham is a gorgeous temple complex. The vast grounds house not only a place of worship, but also an animatronics experience, an IMAX-style theater showing a film about the temple’s namesake, and a theme park–style boat ride.
The Basics
Opened in 2005, Swaminarayan Akshardham is a sprawling complex featuring a 108-foot-tall (33-meter) main temple made from 6,614 tons (6,000 metric tons) of pink sandstone and full of intricate carvings. Along with the temple, there are all sorts of facilities here, including a sprawling food court serving vegetarian food, a gift shop selling books and religious paraphernalia, and a variety of Vedic-themed exhibitions and attractions.
Many operators offer private and small-group temple tours to the complex, which can be particularly useful for visitors looking to learn about Hinduism. Some more general Delhi city tours stop here as well.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Swaminarayan Akshardham is a must-see for architecture buffs—and is entertaining for kids, too.
- Cameras, mobile phones, umbrellas, and other large items must be left in the free cloakroom.
- Wear clothing that covers your shoulders, upper arms, and knees. If you are not dressed modestly, sarongs are available with a deposit.
- The complex is accessible to wheelchair users, and loaner wheelchairs are available with a deposit.
How to Get There
Akshardham is just off the NH 24 on the eastern banks of the Yamuna River, making it less convenient for independent travelers to visit than many of the more centrally located attractions located west of the river. That said, it’s only a 15-minute ride on the metro’s Blue Line from Rajiv Chowk station in Connaught Place to Akshardham station, right in front of the complex. If driving, on-site parking is available for a fee.
When to Get There
The main temple (mandir) and various Indian culture exhibitions and attractions are open 9:30am to 8pm (last entry at 6:30pm) Tuesday through Sunday year-round. Prayer ceremonies (aartis) are held daily at 10am and 6pm, and there’s a water show just after sunset every night.
Who Was Swaminarayan?
This impressive temple was named after Swaminarayan, also known as Neelkanth, an Indian yogi born in the late 18th century. He became an ascetic at the age of 11, and spent seven years traveling throughout the country before going to study with a guru and later becoming a prominent Hindu leader in his own right. Neelkanth was radical for his time in that he believed that women, like men, deserved education and a life free from abuse or oppression.
Address: National Highway 24, Near Noida More, New Delhi, ND 110092, India
Hours: Tue-Sun 9:30am-6:30pm, closed Mondays.
From $ 13
Salar Jung Museum
The halls of this regal-looking museum are filled with art from not only from India, but from the eastern and western worlds. Travelers who venture to the entry of this imposing white structure will find works dating as far back at the 2nd century and as recent as the 20th century. And while the museum showcases the best of local art and culture, visitors will also find plenty of nods to Greek, Roman, and other European influences.
The stone sculptures, bronze statues, jade carvings, handmade tapestries and colorful Buddhist paintings are just part of what makes the Salar Juang Museum one of Hyderabad’s most popular attractions. An optional audio guided tour unlocks more of the history of the stunning works inside the museum’s halls and travelers say even a couple of hours isn’t enough to take in all of Salar Jung’s collection.
Practical Info
The museum is located on Darui Shifa Road near the southern bank of the Musi River. It is open daily from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. and closed on Fridays.
Address: Darui Shifa Road, Hyderabad 500002, India
Hours: Open daily from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. and closed on Fridays and public holidays
Admission: Adults: Rs. 500
From $ 42
San Thome Cathedral
Saint Thomas the Apostle, or ‘Doubting Thomas,’ as he was later called, came to India in 52 AD where he purportedly lived out the remainder of his days. The 16th century Sao Thome Cathedral, built by the Roman Catholic Portuguese and later rebuilt by the British, is said to house the bodily remains of St Thomas in a tomb below the white neo-Gothic structure.
A series of stained glass windows inside the basilica depict scenes from St Thomas’s life and carved wooden panels recount the last days of Jesus’s life from his last temptation to the crucifixion. As a working cathedral, visitors are welcome to stop in for mass (in both English and Tamil), though the church draws larger crowds for mass.
After visiting the main cathedral, view the tomb of St Thomas in the underground Tomb Chapel, accessible from outside the main church structure. Another structure on the grounds houses a small museum containing artifacts related to St Thomas and a theater showing a video about his life.
A series of stained glass windows inside the basilica depict scenes from St Thomas’s life and carved wooden panels recount the last days of Jesus’s life from his last temptation to the crucifixion. As a working cathedral, visitors are welcome to stop in for mass (in both English and Tamil), though the church draws larger crowds for mass.
After visiting the main cathedral, view the tomb of St Thomas in the underground Tomb Chapel, accessible from outside the main church structure. Another structure on the grounds houses a small museum containing artifacts related to St Thomas and a theater showing a video about his life.
Address: 38, San Thome High Road, Chennai 600 004, India
From $ 23
Temple of the Sun God (Monkey Temple)
Officially called Galtaji but usually referred to as Temple of the Sun God or simply the Monkey Temple, this temple complex of many names was built in the 18th century. Multiple storied water tanks, known as kunds, lead up to the main temple, with rounded roofs and pavilions typical to Rajasthan’s architectural traditions.
The Basics
This gorgeous temple complex, in a crevice sandwiched between two hills, features a series of water tanks—the Galta kunds—filled with natural spring water and used for ritual bathing by devotees. At the top of the complex, built by Diwan Rao Kriparam, is a pink stone temple dedicated to Surya, the sun god—hence it’s Temple of the Sun God moniker—not the Hindu monkey god Hanuman, as its alternative name suggests. Its Monkey Temple nickname is due to the large presence of monkeys that hang out here.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Keep any food sealed and buried deep in your bag to avoid theft at the hands of monkeys.
- If you’re frightened of monkeys, you can join a guided tour or hire a local to escort you up to the sun temple.
- Before entering the temple, remember to cover your knees and shoulders and remove your footwear.
How to Get There
Galtaji is located east of Jaipur, about a 30-minute drive from the Hawa Mahal. Getting here involves a zig-zagging ride uphill, and while you can hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw to take you here and back, it’s easiest to come as part of an organized tour.
When to Get There
The Money Temple is open throughout the year, though it can get oppressively hot during the hotter months of the year, particularly in late afternoon. The most auspicious time to visit is during the annual Makar Sankranti holiday, in mid-January, when pilgrims arrive en masse.
Makar Sankranti
Makar Sankranti, sometimes called Maghi, is an annual festival dedicated to Surya, the sun god. Celebrations vary in different parts of the country, but traditional activities associated with the event include flying kites, ritual bathing, exchanging gifts and sweets, and a variety of religious ceremonies.
Address: Galta, India
From $ 14
Sanjay Gandhi National Park
The Sanjay Gandhi National Park lies on the north suburban fringes of Mumbai and is said to be the largest park located within city limits in the world. It’s sprawled across more than 100 square-kilometers and is one of Asia's most visited national parks, with two million visitors flooding through each and every year.
Set against a backdrop of undulating greenery, with panoramic views of the hills, lakes, and valleys, the Sanjay Gandhi National Park is the ideal retreat from the hustle and bustle of Mumbai city life. The park is home to a number of endangered species of both flora and fauna. Among its many residents are wild leopards and tigers, migratory birds, nearly 40 species of reptile, plus some unique and fascinating flora.
Other attractions within the park include the Kanheri Caves (monastic structures dating back to between the 1st century BC and 9th century AD), a famous Jain Temple, and two lakes (Tulsi and Vihar), which provide water to the city of Mumbai.
Practical Info
The entrance to the Sanjay Gandhi National Park is located on the eastern side of the suburb of Borivali, less than a kilometer from Borivali station. Trains leave from Mumbai Central station to Borivali every five minutes throughout the day.
Address: Borivali East, Mumbai, India
From $ 44
Wagah Border
The partition of India and Pakistan in 1947 led to the marking of the Wagah Border between the two nations. It’s located around 30 kilometers from Amritsar and consists of a long white line that defines the border between the two countries, separated by two heavy gates on either side. The Wagah Border is the only open crossing between India and Pakistan that’s officially accessible by both countries.
The border has become famous for its Beating the Retreat ceremony, which marks the closing of the gates and lowering of both national flags a few hours before sunset each day. A huge crowd gathers on both sides to watch the show every evening, which is stylized by pomp and vigor combined with overt patriotism and a sense of ceremonial duty.
Practical Info
Wagah is a 45-minute drive from Amritsar.There are public buses to Attari station, from where the last few kilometers can be made by taking a cycle rickshaw. The Beating the Retreat ceremony begins at 4:15pm daily. There is also a short cultural program performed by local folk dancers beforehand.
Address: AttariWagah Border, Amritsar, Punjab 143001, India
Hours: 4:15pm for Beating the Retreat ceremony
From $ 28
Sulabh International Museum of Toilets
For those who’ve ever wondered about the fascinating history of the toilet, Delhi’s Sulabh International Museum of Toilets showcases a seemingly endless array of artifacts, pictures, stories and examples of one of the modern world’s most ingenious inventions. Three separate spaces examine ancient, medieval and modern toilets, covering the most mundane to the most surprising details.
Visitors can wander detailed exhibits that showcase the chronology of toilets spanning almost all of the last five thousand years. From pit latrines and stone structures to ultra-modern Japanese models complete with heat, massage and music, the museum leaves no stone unturned when it comes to bringing the marvels of the modern toilet to the masses.
Practical Info
The museum is free to enter and guided tours are available at no cost. It is open from 10:30 a.m. until 5 p.m. November 1 through March 30, and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. from April 1 through October 30.
Address: Sulabh Bhawan, Mahavir Enclave, Palam Dabri Marg, New Delhi, India
Hours: Open daily Nov-Mar: 10:30am-5pm and April-Oct: 10am-5pm
From $ 37
The Maidan (Esplanade)
Often described as the lungs of Kolkata (Calcutta), the Maidan (Esplanade) is the city’s largest urban green space and home to numerous cricket and soccer fields, playgrounds, the flowery Eden Gardens and several memorials and monuments. The park is as important to Kolkata as Central Park is to New York City, and residents head to the Maidan for entertainment and leisure on the weekends.
After Fort William was constructed in 1758, the jungle that used to occupy the Maidan was cleared out to give the fort’s cannons a clear line of fire. Besides being used as a parade ground for the British military stationed at Fort William, the park has also played an important role in the establishment of several team sports in the city. The biggest three soccer teams in Kolkata maintain a presence at the Maidan, and the now popular sport of cricket was introduced to India with a two-day match in the park in 1804.
While park maintenance leaves something to be desired, a morning visit makes for some of the best people watching around, giving visitors a peek into the day-to-day lives of Bengali residents. Set aside a few hours to wander the park grounds, watch some cricket and stroll through the Eden Gardens. When you’ve thoroughly explored the park, pay a visit to the nearby St Paul’s Cathedral to gaze at its stained-glass window and Italian-style frescos.
After Fort William was constructed in 1758, the jungle that used to occupy the Maidan was cleared out to give the fort’s cannons a clear line of fire. Besides being used as a parade ground for the British military stationed at Fort William, the park has also played an important role in the establishment of several team sports in the city. The biggest three soccer teams in Kolkata maintain a presence at the Maidan, and the now popular sport of cricket was introduced to India with a two-day match in the park in 1804.
While park maintenance leaves something to be desired, a morning visit makes for some of the best people watching around, giving visitors a peek into the day-to-day lives of Bengali residents. Set aside a few hours to wander the park grounds, watch some cricket and stroll through the Eden Gardens. When you’ve thoroughly explored the park, pay a visit to the nearby St Paul’s Cathedral to gaze at its stained-glass window and Italian-style frescos.
Address: Kolkata, India
From $ 49