Choose from 274 Fun Things to Do in India
ShowingFilter 41-60 of 274 listings.
Fort Aguada and Lighthouse
Perched on top of a hill overlooking the Arabian Sea, Fort Aguada and its lighthouse once guarded the Portuguese colony against Dutch and Marathas invaders. Built in 1612, the fort is the best preserved and most impressive of any in Goa.
While the large moat and 79 cannons once served to protect India’s Portuguese colonies, Fort Aguada, named after the freshwater springs within its walls, also replenished water supplies of passing ships. The four-story Fort Aguada Lighthouse, built in 1864, is the oldest lighthouse of its kind anywhere in Asia.
The fort sits just over 2 miles (3.2 kilometers) south of Sinquerim Beach, and much of the walk is uphill. Unless you plan to take a taxi or bus, get an early start to tour the fort before the sun beating down on the bare stones makes things too hot for comfort. The fort has few shaded areas, so bring plenty of sunscreen and water with you.
While the large moat and 79 cannons once served to protect India’s Portuguese colonies, Fort Aguada, named after the freshwater springs within its walls, also replenished water supplies of passing ships. The four-story Fort Aguada Lighthouse, built in 1864, is the oldest lighthouse of its kind anywhere in Asia.
The fort sits just over 2 miles (3.2 kilometers) south of Sinquerim Beach, and much of the walk is uphill. Unless you plan to take a taxi or bus, get an early start to tour the fort before the sun beating down on the bare stones makes things too hot for comfort. The fort has few shaded areas, so bring plenty of sunscreen and water with you.
Address: Candolim, Goa, India
From $ 30
Fort St George
The British East India Company constructed their first fortress in India in 1640 along a strip of sand on lease from the Raja, allowing them a foothold for expansion in India. The 20-foot (6-meter) thick outer walls surround a complex of white colonial structures, known historically as ‘White City,’ including St Mary’s, the oldest Anglican church in Asia.
Until recently, Fort St George housed the Tamil Nadu Secretariat & Legislative Assembly, and the Fort Museum remains open to the public and is now housed within an old East India Company exchange. The museum’s collection displays portraits, paintings, photographs, British governmental uniforms and East India Company porcelain, among other Raj relics.
Pay attention to the signage when visiting the compound, as several areas and buildings are closed to the public. If you want to avoid crowds at the security check, set aside a few hours on a Sunday morning for your visit.
Until recently, Fort St George housed the Tamil Nadu Secretariat & Legislative Assembly, and the Fort Museum remains open to the public and is now housed within an old East India Company exchange. The museum’s collection displays portraits, paintings, photographs, British governmental uniforms and East India Company porcelain, among other Raj relics.
Pay attention to the signage when visiting the compound, as several areas and buildings are closed to the public. If you want to avoid crowds at the security check, set aside a few hours on a Sunday morning for your visit.
Address: Chennai, India
Hours: Sat–Thurs: 10am - 5pm
Admission: Indians: Rs 5; Foreigners: Rs 100, Children (under 15 years): free
From $ 30
Darjeeling Himalayan Railway
The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, part of the Mountain Railways of India UNESCO World Heritage site, is the oldest and best hill passenger railway in the nation. The 55 miles (88 kilometers) of track connecting New Jalpaiguri with Darjeeling opened in 1881, and the trip up to the famous West Bengali hill station has changed little since that first journey.
Travelers looking to ride the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, or “Toy Train” as it’s been nicknamed, have a couple of options to do so. The most convenient option is to take the steam-hauled joy train (tourist train) on a return trip from Darjeeling to Ghum, a two-hour trip which departs four times per day during the high season.
The other option is to catch the train in Kurseong and make the three hour, one way trip to Darjeeling from there.
Practical Info
If you’re visiting Darjeeling during high season, it’s a good idea to book your tickets well in advance.
Address: West Bengal, India, India
Admission: Vary
From $ 1,379
Bull Temple (Dodda Ganeshana Gudi)
The Bull Temple (Dodda Ganeshana Gudi) was built in the 16th century in typical South Indian Dravidian style, and is one of Bangalore’s oldest temples. The locals call it “Dodda Basavana Gudi” (Big Bull Temple), named after the gigantic 15-foot high and 20-foot long statue of Nandi, Lord Shiva’s bull.
Visitors to the temple first pay their respects to Ganesh, the elephant-headed god at the base of the hill before climbing the many steps to worship the huge monolithic statue of Nandi at the top. Carved from a single enormous slab of granite, this is one of the largest statues of Nandi in the world.
One of the most important annual festivals celebrated at the Bull Temple is the “Peanut Festival” which happens every November. Peanut farmers from villages on the outskirts of the city come to the temple to offer their first crop of peanuts to Nandi the bull before selling the rest. The streets adjoining the temple are closed to traffic and take on a festive atmosphere: huge piles of peanuts are bought and sold and a variety of vendors sell trinkets, balloons and snacks to the crowds of people who come to take part.
Visitors to the temple first pay their respects to Ganesh, the elephant-headed god at the base of the hill before climbing the many steps to worship the huge monolithic statue of Nandi at the top. Carved from a single enormous slab of granite, this is one of the largest statues of Nandi in the world.
One of the most important annual festivals celebrated at the Bull Temple is the “Peanut Festival” which happens every November. Peanut farmers from villages on the outskirts of the city come to the temple to offer their first crop of peanuts to Nandi the bull before selling the rest. The streets adjoining the temple are closed to traffic and take on a festive atmosphere: huge piles of peanuts are bought and sold and a variety of vendors sell trinkets, balloons and snacks to the crowds of people who come to take part.
Practical Info
The temple is located on Bull Temple Road in
Basavanagudi, South Bangalore, next to Bugle Rock Park. It is open daily
from 6am–1pm and 4pm-9pm. Bugle Rock Park next door to the temple is
also worth a visit for its beautiful majestic trees.
Address: Bull Temple Road, Bassavanagudi, Bangalore, India, India
Hours: 6am–1pm; 4pm–9pm daily
From $ 55
Arignar Anna Zoological Park
Established in 1885, the Arignar Anna Zoological Park (often referred to as Vandalur Zoo) is the oldest public zoo in India. It’s been transformed and relocated over the years, and today the zoo can be found in Vandalu, just over 30 kilometers from Chennai. It’s home to hundreds of species of wild animals, many of which are considered endangered, and serves as a wildlife sanctuary and center for rehabilitating rescued animals.
The Arignar Anna Zoological Park is a large and well-maintained space with plenty of plant and wildlife out in the open. Visitors can tour the expansive grounds on bicycles or by using one of the zoo’s electric vehicles to zip around. Most of the main attractions are located along the park’s inner pathways, where the large animals such as tigers, panthers, and elephants live. There are a whole host of other mammals, reptiles, birdlife, fish, and butterflies to visit throughout the rest of the park too.
Practical Info
The Arignar Anna Zoological Park is open from 9am until 5pm and can be easily reached from Chennai city center by bus; visitors should alight at the Vandalur Zoo bus stop. Vandalur railway station also sits just one kilometer from the zoo.
Address: Vandalur, Near Crescent Auditorium, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India 600048, India
Hours: Open daily 9am-5pm
From $ 8
Fort Aguada
Fort Aguada, the largest and best preserved of Goa’s Portuguese bastions, was constructed between 1609 and 1612 to protect Old Goa from Dutch enemies attacking via the Mandovi River. Set on a hill overlooking Aguada Bay and the Arabian Sea, the fort housed a freshwater spring that provided water to passing ships and gave the fort its name.
What remains of the sprawling fort remains largely intact, thanks in part to the fact that it was never taken by force during the four century rule of the Portuguese in Goa. Visitors can walk through the grounds to see the stone architecture, including the still-standing lighthouse. Thanks to its panoramic views, the fort is one of the most popular spots in the region to watch a sunset.
Practical Info
Fort Aguada is reachable via a 2.5-mile (4-kilometer), somewhat steep path starting and Sinquerim Beach. It’s also possible to take a taxi.
Address: Calangute Candolim Sinquerim Rd, Bardez, Goa, India 403515, India
From $ 35
Dakshineswar Kali Temple
Located in the northern Kolkata (Calcutta) neighborhood of Dakshineswar along the Hoohley River is the Dakshineswar Kali Temple. The temple complex, dating back to the nineteenth century, consists of one large temple to Kali and 13 smaller temples dedicated to the worship of other deities in the Hindu pantheon.
The main temple, built in 1855, is an important pilgrimage spot for devotees of Kali, the patron goddess of Kolkata. It is also the temple where spiritual leader Ramakrishna had a vision that prompted him to turn against the caste system and preach religious unity instead. The small room where he lived much of his life is now a small museum celebrating his life.
The temple complex tends to get crowded on Sundays. Visit in the early morning hours to beat the heat and watch the locals feed the pigeons or browse the small flower market just outside the temple grounds.
The main temple, built in 1855, is an important pilgrimage spot for devotees of Kali, the patron goddess of Kolkata. It is also the temple where spiritual leader Ramakrishna had a vision that prompted him to turn against the caste system and preach religious unity instead. The small room where he lived much of his life is now a small museum celebrating his life.
The temple complex tends to get crowded on Sundays. Visit in the early morning hours to beat the heat and watch the locals feed the pigeons or browse the small flower market just outside the temple grounds.
Address: Kolkata, India
Hours: Oct-March: 6am-12:30pm & 3pm-8:30pm; Apr-Sept: 6am-12:30pm & 3:30pm-9pm
From $ 38
Government Museum
Government Museum is a bit of a misnomer, as the complex of 6 structures and 46 galleries houses Chennai’s best collection of scientific and artistic artifacts. This includes the most impressive collection of Pallava and Chola bronze sculptures (dating back to the 10th and 13th centuries) anywhere in the world. The Chola Nataraj depicts the god Shiva dancing in a circle of cosmic fire. Some of the displays and informational placards are a bit dated, but for those with even a mild interest in Indian art, the Government museum is certainly worth a stop.
Come in the morning when the museum opens to avoid the tour bus crowds. Take some time to walk the grounds and take in the detail of the structures themselves, particularly the recently renovated Museum Theatre. Several sculptures and old cannons can be found scattered between and around the main buildings. If you time your visit right, you can catch a performance in the Museum Theatre.
Come in the morning when the museum opens to avoid the tour bus crowds. Take some time to walk the grounds and take in the detail of the structures themselves, particularly the recently renovated Museum Theatre. Several sculptures and old cannons can be found scattered between and around the main buildings. If you time your visit right, you can catch a performance in the Museum Theatre.
Address: 486 Pantheon Rd, Chennai, India
Hours: Sat–Thurs: 9:30am - 5pm
Admission: Indians: Rs 15; Foreigners: Rs 250; Students: Rs 75
From $ 35
Cubbon Park
Cubbon Park is a 300-acre (121-hectare) oasis located in the heart of Bangalore just off the city’s main thoroughfare, MG Road. The park is a hive of activity in the early mornings when people come here for their morning walks and then again in the early evenings when the walkers descend again. With close to a hundred different species of plants and trees, this is also a favorite haunt for nature lovers and birdwatchers.
The park is painted a different color each season as the tall majestic trees flower and drop their petals to the ground, creating a beautiful carpet of flowers. In the spring, the Rain Trees are covered with delicate pink blossoms, while summer is when the Jacarandas release their bright purple blossoms, creating a brilliant tapestry on the ground. At the height of summer, it’s the Gulmohars’ turn as they bloom and turn the park’s avenues a bright red. Twice a year, the eccentric Cannonball tree flowers, releasing the blossoms’ intoxicating perfume. Those who want a quiet moment for contemplation head to the park’s atmospheric bamboo groves and lotus ponds.
Cubbon Park is also the home to several important government buildings including the Karnataka High Court, the Central Library and the Government Museum and Art Gallery.
The park is painted a different color each season as the tall majestic trees flower and drop their petals to the ground, creating a beautiful carpet of flowers. In the spring, the Rain Trees are covered with delicate pink blossoms, while summer is when the Jacarandas release their bright purple blossoms, creating a brilliant tapestry on the ground. At the height of summer, it’s the Gulmohars’ turn as they bloom and turn the park’s avenues a bright red. Twice a year, the eccentric Cannonball tree flowers, releasing the blossoms’ intoxicating perfume. Those who want a quiet moment for contemplation head to the park’s atmospheric bamboo groves and lotus ponds.
Cubbon Park is also the home to several important government buildings including the Karnataka High Court, the Central Library and the Government Museum and Art Gallery.
Practical Info:
The park is accessible from MG Road, Kasturba Road, Hudson Circle and Dr Ambedkar Road. It is only a short walk away from MG Road Metro station via the raised walkway. The main thoroughfares running through the park are open to traffic from 8am to 8pm.
Address: Bangalore, KA, India
Hours: Main thoroughfares are open 8am to 8pm
From $ 33
Elliot's Beach (Besant Nagar Beach)
Known alternately as Besant Nagar Beach, or “Bessie” for short, Elliot's Beach sits at the south end of the Marina Beach shore. A former expatriate enclave during Chennai’s colonial era, today, the beach attracts a crowd of twenty somethings, as well as families looking to avoid the crowds at the more popular Marina Beach.
While you won't find water sports along this stretch of sand, what you will find are beautiful ocean views and several architectural landmarks, including Ashtalakshmi Temple and Velankanni Church, as well as an array of snack stalls and restaurants serving authentic South Indian cuisine. Another interesting landmark, the Karl Schmidt Memorial, honors a Dutch sailor who died while saving a swimmer from drowning.
While you won't find water sports along this stretch of sand, what you will find are beautiful ocean views and several architectural landmarks, including Ashtalakshmi Temple and Velankanni Church, as well as an array of snack stalls and restaurants serving authentic South Indian cuisine. Another interesting landmark, the Karl Schmidt Memorial, honors a Dutch sailor who died while saving a swimmer from drowning.
Practial Info
Elliot’s Beach is located 37 miles (60 kilometers) south of Chennai.
Address: Chennai, India
From $ 57
Dasaswamedh Ghat
Dasaswamedh Ghat is one of the busiest, oldest, and most important ghats in Varanasi. It's the site of a number of Hindu temples and shrines and a place where pilgrims come from all over the world to perform religious ceremonies and rituals. Many devotees visit the ghat at sunrise to pay homage to Lord Shiva and bath in the holy waters of the Ganges, while evening aarti, which see thousands of floating lamps immersed in the river, attracts huge crowds from far and wide.
Literally translated, Dasaswamedh means ‘the ghat of 10 sacrificed horses.’ According to Hindu mythology, ten horses were sacrificed by Lord Brahma to allow Shiva to return from a period of banishment. Despite its age, Dasaswamedh Ghat is attractive, colorful, and relatively clean, and even non-devotees are attracted by its atmosphere, daily rituals, and beautiful riverfront views.
Practical Info
Along with the other ghats of Varanasi, the best way to reach Dasaswamedh Ghat is by rickshaw or by taking a boat-ride along the river.
Address: Dashashwamedh Ghat Road, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001, India
From $ 30
Dakshinachitra
The heritage village of Dakshinachitra, meaning ‘A Picture of the South,' was established to help preserve the folk art and cultural traditions of southern India, particularly from Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka.
Artisans trained in traditional techniques work in the 17 heritage houses and village tableaus within the 10 acres (four hectares) of rural land just south of Chennai. Many of the pots, baskets, woven silk pieces, puppets and stone carvings you see being made can be purchased directly from the artists or in the gift shop; and items from these artists are both authentic and of high quality. Dancers, musicians, traditional fortune tellers and puppeteers all perform throughout the day in the open-air venue.
The Dakshinachitra grounds house a South Indian restaurant and a small guesthouse with both private rooms and dormitories. While a few hours should be sufficient to see all the sights, a night’s stay makes for a nice escape from the busy city center, particularly if you’re traveling with children. Despite the sometimes heavy traffic on the way from Chennai, the well-maintained cultural center is well worth a visit.
Artisans trained in traditional techniques work in the 17 heritage houses and village tableaus within the 10 acres (four hectares) of rural land just south of Chennai. Many of the pots, baskets, woven silk pieces, puppets and stone carvings you see being made can be purchased directly from the artists or in the gift shop; and items from these artists are both authentic and of high quality. Dancers, musicians, traditional fortune tellers and puppeteers all perform throughout the day in the open-air venue.
The Dakshinachitra grounds house a South Indian restaurant and a small guesthouse with both private rooms and dormitories. While a few hours should be sufficient to see all the sights, a night’s stay makes for a nice escape from the busy city center, particularly if you’re traveling with children. Despite the sometimes heavy traffic on the way from Chennai, the well-maintained cultural center is well worth a visit.
Address: East Coast Road, Muttukadu, Chennai 600 118, India
Hours: Wed-Mon: 10am - 6pm
Admission: Indians: Adult Rs 75, Children (5-12 years) Rs 20; Foreigners: Rs 200
From $ 11
Fort Cochin
Fort Cochin, aka Fort Kochi, is an historic district and a main draw for tourists in Cochin (Kochi). It’s a charming neighborhood full of colonial-era homes (many of which have been converted into boutique hotels), lovely old houses of worship, charming shops and markets, and the city's famous Chinese fishing nets that flank the harbor.
The Basics
Fort Cochin is a charming historic area on the western end of Cochin notable for its blend of local Malayali and colonial (Portuguese, Dutch, and British) architecture. Here you'll find most of Cochin's most interesting attractions, including St. Francis Church, the Santa Cruz Basilica, the Paradesi Synagogue, and Mattancherry Palace. There’s also a small beach; visit around sunset for a chance to see some of the city’s famous Chinese fishing nets in action. Book a private or group tour, some of which include a Kathakali dance performance.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Fort Cochin is great for culture lovers, shopaholics, and anyone looking to take some gorgeous photos.
- Wear plenty of sunscreen and bring a hat, as the sun can get strong here.
- Fort Cochin is best explored on foot, so comfortable clothes and shoes are a must.
- While it’s expected that you bargain at craft stalls, it’s not appropriate at the area’s many high-end boutiques.
How to Get There
Fort Cochin sits on the northwestern part of Cochin, an historic area filled with attractions, including churches, old Dutch-style homes, and the city’s famous fishing nets. It’s west of the main city of Ernakulam on the mainland, and it takes around a half-hour by taxi to get to the fort, without traffic.
When to Get There
Fort Cochin is great throughout the year, though weather is a big consideration for many travelers. The monsoon season from around June through November can mean lots of flash rainfalls and high humidity, while March, April, and May can be unbearably hot. The driest, coolest time of year is during the winter (December through February), but this is also the most crowded season.
Cochin’s Jewish Community
Cochin has been home to a small Jewish community, possibly since as early as the time of King Solomon, though only a handful remain to this day. The old city is home to the oldest synagogue in the Commonwealth, dating back to 1567, located in an historic area known as Jew Town, with numerous antique shops and even a restaurant serving traditional Cochin-Jewish cuisine.
Address: River Rd., India
Admission: Varies
From $ 45
Beas River
The Beas River rises in central Himachal Pradesh and is a natural attraction for those visiting Manali, a small tourist town situated along the banks of this gushing Himalayan river.
From Manali, the Beas River travels through dense evergreen forests and through the town of Kullu. The Beas covers some 470 kilometers in total, traveling through hills and valleys, towns and districts, before joining the Sutlej River at the southwestern boundary of Kapurthala in Punjab, before finally flowing into Pakistan.
With its mountain views, tranquil surroundings, and fresh clean water, the Beas River at Manali is a popular place to visit. Unfortunately, it’s also the site of a recent tragedy; in June 2014, 24 students and one tour operator were drowned when the floodgates of a dam suddenly opened, apparently without due warning, causing the river to surge.
Practical Info
The Beas River at Manali runs alongside a highway and is close to a wide range of accommodation. Visitors should note that during the winter months temperatures can drop to below freezing, so warm clothing is recommended.
Address: Manali, Himachal Pradesh, India, India
From $ 131
Eden Gardens
Named after the gardens that lay beyond it, Eden Gardens is a cricket ground in Kolkata that’s home to the Bengal cricket team and the Kolkata Knight Riders. It’s also the venue for international cricket matches and is the largest cricket stadium in India in terms of seating capacity.
Established in 1864, Eden Gardens has since become one of the most iconic cricket stadiums in the world. Following renovations for the Cricket World Cup in 2011, the stadium seats over 90,000 spectators (a capacity actually lower than before the upgrade).
Within the grounds, the gardens themselves feature a picturesque lake with a tiny Burmese pagoda at its center. It’s a peaceful spot that’s well worth a stroll around on a visit to the stadium.
Practical Info
The stadium can be reached both via the Eden Gardens Railway Station and the Eden Gardens Circular stop. Entry to the stadium is usually limited to the south gate, but a north portal near Gate 12 is often open, too.
Address: Kolkata, West Bengal, India, India
From $ 49
Fontainhas
Situated on the banks of Ourem Creek in Panaji, Goa's capital city, the charming neighborhood of Fountainhas is dotted with charming old homes dating back to the mid 19th century. Fontainhas occupies land that was reclaimed in the 18th century and gets its name from the natural springs situated at the edge of the area.
The Basics
This charming area attracts travelers with its old-fashioned Portuguese-style architecture: beautiful old houses painted in pastel hues of yellow, green, blue, and pink with large balconies and red tiled roofs. It’s a fun place to wander and take photos, whether independently or as part of a group. Some heritage tours involve walks through the area, and many visitors end up stopping by the 1818 Chapel of St. Sebastian, a highlight of the neighborhood.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Wear comfortable shoes and sun protection, as this area is best explored on foot.
- Fontainhas is a must-visit for history buffs and anyone with an interest in old architecture.
- Don’t forget your camera; this is one of the most photogenic spots in the city.
How to Get There
Fontainhas is located just across the Rio de Ourem from the more modern commercial hub of Panaji, and it takes about 15 minutes to get there by foot from the Panjim Bus Stand. If you're visiting Panaji from North Goa, you'll need at least a half hour to get there by car from Calangute or about 45 minutes to an hour from Anjuna and Vagator.
When to Get There
Because Fontaihas is an outdoor destination, it’s wise to visit either early in the morning, when temperatures are at their most manageable and the light is still good for photography, or in the evening, when the area begins to cool down and locals come out to walk around. If you visit in February, don’t miss the Fontainhas Festival, a week-long event celebrating art and culture in the neighborhood.
The Chapel of Saint Sebastian
Most visitors make a point of stopping at the Chapel of St Sebastian, situated at the southern end of the area on a small square where locals traditionally celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of Livrament. Inside the chapel is a crucifix that used to hang inside of the Palace of the Inquisition in Old Goa, one featuring an eerie image of Christ with his eyes open.
Address: Panaji, Goa, India, India
From $ 18
Art of Living International Center
The Art of Living ashram, located 22 miles south of Bangalore, is a 65-acre haven of peace and tranquility, with its beautiful, lush gardens, soothing water fountains and waterfalls, and a picturesque lake. At the center of the campus is the spectacular mediation hall, a magnificent six-tiered building topped with a glass dome.
This is the international headquarters of the Art of Living Foundation, which has chapters in over 150 countries around the world. The Art of Living was founded in 1981 by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, a spiritual guru who has an international following and whose philosophy is “unless we have a stress-free mind and a violence-free society, we cannot achieve world peace.”
The Art of Living Foundation is well-known for its stress-elimination programs which combine yoga and meditation with breathing techniques to help people achieve mental and physical well-being. The Foundation is also one of the world’s largest non-governmental organizations, promoting many humanitarian activities and projects working on rural development, education and the empowerment of women.
Visitors are welcome to visit the campus for the day and enjoy the peaceful, pleasant surroundings by taking a stroll around the grounds and joining the daily Satsang (spiritual discourse) session with Sri Sri Ravi Shankar from 6:30pm to 8pm (4:30pm to 6pm on Sundays). Those who would like to learn more about the Art of Living and attend a course can be accommodated on campus. There’s also an Ayurvedic spa, pharmacy and wellness center located on site as well as a bookstore and handicraft shop.
This is the international headquarters of the Art of Living Foundation, which has chapters in over 150 countries around the world. The Art of Living was founded in 1981 by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, a spiritual guru who has an international following and whose philosophy is “unless we have a stress-free mind and a violence-free society, we cannot achieve world peace.”
The Art of Living Foundation is well-known for its stress-elimination programs which combine yoga and meditation with breathing techniques to help people achieve mental and physical well-being. The Foundation is also one of the world’s largest non-governmental organizations, promoting many humanitarian activities and projects working on rural development, education and the empowerment of women.
Visitors are welcome to visit the campus for the day and enjoy the peaceful, pleasant surroundings by taking a stroll around the grounds and joining the daily Satsang (spiritual discourse) session with Sri Sri Ravi Shankar from 6:30pm to 8pm (4:30pm to 6pm on Sundays). Those who would like to learn more about the Art of Living and attend a course can be accommodated on campus. There’s also an Ayurvedic spa, pharmacy and wellness center located on site as well as a bookstore and handicraft shop.
Address: Bengaluru, India
From $ 71
Elephanta Caves
The Elephanta Caves are among the most beautiful, historically significant attractions in Mumbai. Situated on an island off the coast, this UNESCO World Heritage Site features multiple rock-hewn cave temples and statues dating back to around the 7th century AD, including a celebrated statue of Shiva in his three-faced form.
The Basics
There are two groups of caves at the site: one featuring five caves dedicated to Hindu deities, and a second group with two Buddhist shrines. While there's a lot of debate about the true origins of the caves, there are elements of South Indian Badami Chalukya architecture as well as architectural styles from the Gupta Empire.
Many city tours come to the island, and going with a guide can help you make sense of the caves, as the signage here isn’t the greatest.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Elephanta Caves are a must-visit for those with an interest in history, art, or religion.
- Bring water, sun protection, and comfortable shoes.
- Beware of naughty monkeys, particularly on the stairs leading up to the attraction.
- This attraction is not suitable for those with compromised mobility, and accessing it requires climbing lots of steps.
How to Get There
Elephanta Island is located in the Mumbai Harbour, about 5.5 miles (9 kilometers) northeast of the Gateway of India monument, from which boats to the attraction depart. Once on the island, travelers can take a miniature train up to a tall, steep set of stairs that lead up to the monument.
When to Get There
The caves are open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:30am to 5:30pm. It's best to get there first thing in the morning to beat crowds and hot temperatures, but if you come in the evening, try to get on the last boat of the day, when things have quieted down. Note that visiting during monsoon season may make for a choppier boat ride to the island and back.
Monkey Business
You may see lots of monkeys while on the island (and all over India, in general, especially in rural areas). On Elephanta Island, you’re most likely to encounter them on the stairs leading up to the monument, and they can be aggressive and carry disease. Do not feed them, and keep an eye on any possessions you may have, from food to the eyeglasses on your head, as they are known to pickpocket the inattentive.
Address: India
Admission: Varies
From $ 39
Ashtalakshmi Temple
Situated near Elliot's Beach, the colorful Ashtalakshmi Temple was constructed in the mid-1970s to honor the Hindu goddess of prosperity, Lakshmi. The multitiered structure features images of the goddess in her eight forms, with shrines spread over four floors accessible by steep and narrow staircases.
The Basics
Towering over Elliot's beach, Ashtalakshmi Temple can be visited as part of a half-day excursion from nearby Chennai. This colorful edifice is around 65 feet high and 45 feet wide. Eight forms of the goddess Lakshmi are depicted across four levels, as well as a shrine to Dhanalakshmi, associated with financial wealth, on the top floor. The temple also features 32 kalasams, pointed tips frequently seen at the top of temple towers.
Things to Know Before You Go
- This colorful temple is a must-visit for photographers.
- Remember to dress modestly, with knees and shoulders covered, out of respect for local culture.
- The temple is primarily an outdoor attraction, so wear sunscreen and a hat.
- Access to the top of the temple requires climbing steep and narrow stairs, which could prove challenging for those with mobility concerns.
How to Get There
The temple is located on Beach Road, at the southernmost tip of Elliot's Beach in southern Chennai. It's about a 20-minute drive to Mylapore, where many of the city's major attractions are located. The nearest commuter railway station is Indira Nagar, which is 10 or 15 minutes away by taxi or auto rickshaw.
When to Get There
The temple is open from 6:30am until noon, and again from 4pm to 9pm daily, with extended hours until 1pm on Friday and Sunday mornings. During the hotter months of April through June, travelers may want to visit during the early morning hours, before temperatures peak.
The Eight Forms of Lakshmi
Ashtalakshmi literally means “eight Lakshmis,” symbolizing the goddess of wealth in eight different manifestations. The types of wealth associated with the goddess include financial wealth, agricultural wealth (associated with crops), animal wealth (such as owning livestock), the wealth of having children, the wealth of knowledge, the wealth of having courage, and the wealth of being victorious in battle.
Address: Near Beach Seashore, Besant Nagar, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India 600090, India
From $ 57
Central Museum (Albert Hall)
Considered one of the world’s best examples of Indo-Saracenic architecture, Albert Hall houses the Government Central Museum (the oldest museum in Rajasthan). Inside this striking building, you’ll find an extensive collection of international art, miniature paintings, and artifacts—there's even an Egyptian mummy.
The Basics
Sir Samuel Swinton Jacob, an English architect who created Rambagh Palace, also designed this gorgeous building situated in Ram Niwas Gardens. He drew his inspiration for the Albert Hall from the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. It was originally built to be a town hall, but instead serves as a museum filled with all sorts of jewelry, marble art, musical instruments, and paintings.
It’s possible to prebook admission tickets, some of which include round-trip transfers. Many Jaipur tours—including private car, walking, and biking excursions—stop here. The exterior alone is worth checking out, even if you don’t opt to go inside. A visit to the Central Museum is often paired with Amber Fort, Jantar Mantar, Jaigarh Fort, and other sights.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Photography is not allowed inside Albert Hall Museum.
- Drive by at night to see Albert Hall beautifully lit up.
- Parking is limited near the museum, though tour buses and cars can stop for a few minutes near the front for photo opportunities.
How to Get There
Albert Hall Museum is located south of the Pink City, about a 25-minute walk or 10-minute drive from the City Palace and Jantar Mantar or a 15-minute drive from the Bani Park neighborhood, where many of Jaipur's hotels are located. Most Jaipur city tours pass by the museum, though not all stop for those who want to go inside.
When to Get There
Albert Hall is open daily throughout the year, making it a good attraction to visit year-round. Many travelers who want to go inside the museum opt to come here later in the day, when bright sunlight makes visiting outdoor attractions and markets uncomfortable. Albert Hall’s façade is usually illuminated at night, making it a popular stop on night tours.
Indo-Saracenic Architecture
Albert Hall is an excellent example of Indo-Saracenic Revival architecture, a grandiose style that blends Mughal, Gothic Revival, and Hindu themes. Other popular examples of this architecture include Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; the Madras High Court in Chennai, South India; and the Brighton Pavilion in England.
Address: Ram Niwas Gardens, Jaipur, India
Admission: Varies
From $ 4