Choose from 274 Fun Things to Do in India
ShowingFilter 121-140 of 274 listings.
Kanheri Caves
Deep in the Sanjay Gandhi National Park, the Kanheri Caves comprise 109 basalt grottos that were carved between the first century BC and the 10th century AD. The caves served as Buddhist monastic dwellings for many centuries, and some of the newer ones feature intricate carvings, pillars, and even rock-cut cisterns.
The Basics
The Kanheri Caves are accessible by steep stone steps. The first cave visitors reach is Great Chaitya, featuring a large meditation hall full of intricate stone carvings and pillars. The two caves on both sides of Chaitya contain small stupas and more beautifully preserved carvings. The caves can be visited on a dedicated half-day excursion or as part of a larger tour of Mumbai-area attractions.
Things to Know Before You Go
- A must-visit for history buffs and art lovers.
- The caves are only accessible via stone-cut stairs, so wear solid footwear and be prepared to walk.
- Bottled water is available for purchase near the site, but sunscreen and insect repellant are not.
How to Get There
The caves are located in Sanjay Gandhi National Park on the northeastern outskirts of Mumbai, about an hour from the airport (depending on traffic). The nearest railway station is Borivali, with regular connections to the Andheri West commuter train station. Shuttles run from Borivali to the caves every hour.
When to Get There
The Kanheri Caves are open Tuesday through Sunday from 7:30am to 6pm, though the last entry is at 4pm. Travelers are welcome year-round, but the caves are best visited in the cooler, drier months (October to March). However, if travelers are in the area during the sweltering months of May and June, the caves do provide relief from the heat.
Brahmi: India’s Ancient Script
Many of the inscriptions on the cave walls are in the Brahmi script, which was likely at its peak at some point in the fourth and fifth centuries BC. Many of the myriad scripts used in India today descended from Brahmi, including Devanagari, which is used for writing Hindi and Sanskrit.
Address: Mumbai, India
Admission: Varies
From $ 28
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
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
Juhu Beach
Located in a wealthy neighborhood in western Mumbai, Juhu Beach is a popular seven-kilometer stretch of sand surrounded by the Arabian Sea. One of the most famous beaches in India, Juhu is often used as the location for film shoots, and it’s not uncommon to find Bollywood stars jogging along its sands during the daytime.
It’s usually in the afternoons and evenings when Juhu Beach truly comes alive, when locals gather for street food, tourists come for the sunsets, and families make the most of the children's rides and amusements. While luxury hotels and restaurants can be found at its southern end, Juhu Beach is most famous for the wide range of local street food stalls set up along its shores. Here you can sample local favorites such as pani puri, bhel puri, and pav bhaji.
Visit Juhu Beach on a regular Mumbai city tour, or as part of a hop-on hop-off sightseeing tour, giving you the chance to take in the city’s key sights and attractions. To experience Juhu Beach after the sun goes down, opt for a private Mumbai by night tour, which includes dinner.
Insider’s Tip: The most pleasant time to visit Juhu Beach is usually between October and February. Having said that, India’s monsoon season between these months does turn the beach into a dramatic landscape, drawing in the crowds to watch nature’s show unfold.
Practical Info
Juhu Beach is located around 20 kilometers from central Mumbai. If not arriving as part of an organized tour, it is easily accessible by taxi, auto-rickshaw, and bus, with state and privately operated buses departing from various points across the city. The nearest railway stations are Santacruz, Andheri, and Vile Parle.
Address: Juhu Beach, Mumbai, India
From $ 50
Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium
A great attraction for families or those interested in science, Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium features a 49-foot-diameter (15 meter) dome with projections of the night sky, allowing visitors a better view of stars and planets. There are also daily shows in English and Kannada for travelers interested in learning more about our solar system.
The Basics
While the night sky shows and projections are the main draws of the planetarium, it offers much more. There's a science center and a science park with sundials, kaleidoscopes, and models of rockets as well as a number of projectors and telescopes for public use. It's also a great place to head to for viewings of astronomical events, such as eclipses. It's possible to arrange a private tour to see the planetarium as well as nearby sights like Anjaneya Temple.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The planetarium is a must-visit for science lovers and astronomy buffs.
- A section of the planetarium is outside, so be prepared for the elements.
- It's is a great place to visit for families with young kids.
How to Get There
Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium is located in the heart of Bangalore, right on Raj Bhavan Road. It’s about a 10-minute walk from Cubbon Park and a 10-minute drive from the main railway station. The area is easy to get to by taxi or auto rickshaw, and parking is available. The nearest metro stations are Dr. BR Ambedkar station and Cubbon Park.
When to Get There
The planetarium is a year-round attraction, and as much of it is indoors, travelers just interested in seeing shows and projections won’t have to worry too much about weather considerations such as monsoons. However, there are some science activities in the garden, so those coming in the rainy season (June–September) should pack an umbrella. It’s open Wednesday through Sunday. English-language shows take place daily at 12:30pm and 4:30pm, but check ahead for any changes.
Special Events at the Planetarium
Along with regular projections and night sky shows, the planetarium offers a host of special events, from regular monthly science movies, most of which are family-friendly, to special workshops for educators. A number of lectures are also held throughout the year, often on advanced topics in astronomy and physics.
Address: Sir.T Chowdaiah Road, Bangalore, India
Admission: Varies
From $ 75
Jehangir Art Gallery
Located in the heart of the historic district of Mumbai, the Jehangir Art Gallery is the most prestigious venue for Indian artists in the city—and a great stop on any museum or city walking tour. Internationally recognized as the center of contemporary Indian art, the gallery is frequented by artists and art lovers alike, and is considered an important point of cultural interest.
The gallery features four large exhibition halls and is equipped with the latest audiovisual technology for its various multimedia exhibitions. Those looking to refuel can stop by the gallery's 1970s-themed restaurant or visit the oldest licensed antique dealer in India, also located inside the gallery.
A visit to the gallery is best enjoyed as part of a heritage walking tour of Colaba, or combined with a Mumbai museums tour, with visits to the National Gallery of Modern Art and the Prince of Wales Museum included.
Practical Info
The gallery is situated at Kala Ghoda near the Gateway of India and behind the Prince of Wales Museum in south Mumbai.
Did You Know? The Jehangir Art Gallery, and Cafe Samovar in particular, is featured in the 1975 Bollywood movie, Chhoti Si Baat.
Address: 161 Mahatma Gandhi Road, Mumbai 400023, India
Hours: Daily 11am–7pm
From $ 42
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
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
Kalakshetra
The word “kalakshetra” means “holy place of the arts.” Founded in 1936, Kalakshetra is Tamil Nadu’s leading academy of the arts, with a focus on the traditional dances and music styles of the state. Rukmini Devi Arundale, the school’s founder, studied dance under famed Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova.
The 99-acre (40-hectare) campus opens to visitors who’d like to explore the grounds, observe classes in session or participate in morning prayer around the campus Banyan Tree. Academy staff also offer guided tours of the campus, allowing visitors to learn more about the history of some of the illustrious alumni of Kalakshetra.
Also of interest is the campus’s Rukmini Devi Museum, who donated her collection of art and artifacts to the academy. Across the street from the Kalakshetra Campus, the associated Craft Centre offers demonstrations in hand-loom weaving, block printing and textile painting.
Practical Info
Kalakshetra closes to visitors during final examinations and summer vacation, so it’s a good idea to call ahead before you go.
Address: Kalakshetra Rd, Thiruvanmiyur, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India 600041, India
From $ 53
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
Kanchipuram
Kanchipuram, the old capital city of the Pallava Dynasty in Tamil Nadu, is one of seven holy pilgrimage sites for Hindus. The Pallava, Chola and Pandyan Dynasties all occupied the area, each trying to outdo the others with bigger and better shrines, and the result is a fascinating study in Dravidian architectural development from the eighth century onward.
The nickname ‘Golden City of 1,000 Temples’ is well earned, and travelers who make the 45-mile (72-kilometer) trek from Chennai will be rewarded with a veritable treasure trove of Shaivite and Vaishnavite temples. The most notable, the Devarajaswami Temple dedicated to Vishnu, includes a 96-pillar marriage hall and a huge chain carved from stone.
Most of the temples open in the morning and again during the late afternoon and evening hours, but the cooler morning hours are typically a much more pleasant time to visit. For a memorable photo opportunity, give a rupee or two to one of the temple elephants. After passing your donation to the handler, the elephant will offer you a blessing by touching your head with its trunk.
The nickname ‘Golden City of 1,000 Temples’ is well earned, and travelers who make the 45-mile (72-kilometer) trek from Chennai will be rewarded with a veritable treasure trove of Shaivite and Vaishnavite temples. The most notable, the Devarajaswami Temple dedicated to Vishnu, includes a 96-pillar marriage hall and a huge chain carved from stone.
Most of the temples open in the morning and again during the late afternoon and evening hours, but the cooler morning hours are typically a much more pleasant time to visit. For a memorable photo opportunity, give a rupee or two to one of the temple elephants. After passing your donation to the handler, the elephant will offer you a blessing by touching your head with its trunk.
Address: India
From $ 11
Jama Masjid
Old Delhi’s Jama Masjid is the largest mosque in India and an unmissable stop on any Delhi itinerary. Built between 1644 and 1658 by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, the mosque’s red sandstone and white marble domes, minarets, gateways, and arches are both grand in scale and elegance. Devout Muslims still come here to pray five times a day, while travelers stop by to marvel over the details.
The Basics
The large Jama Masjid complex consists of a courtyard, a prayer hall, arched entrance ways, two minarets, and three domes. Around the outside of the mosque, hawkers sell all kinds of clothes, snacks, and textiles, but inside, the atmosphere is calm. It’s possible to climb the southern minaret (outside of prayer time) for a small fee. From there, the views over the tangled streets of Old Delhi are among the best you’ll find.
Many travelers opt to visit the Jama Masjid on a half- or full-day tour of Old and New Delhi, either on foot or by customizable van tour. In addition to a stop at the Jama Masjid, most tours also visit other Old and New Delhi highlights such as the Red Fort, Chandni Chowk, and the Qutub Minar.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Jama Masjid is a must-visit site for travelers interested in history, architecture, and culture in India.
- There is no entry fee; don’t believe touts who tell you to pay. But many visitors find that a guided tour helps add context to the site’s interior.
- Before entering, remove your shoes and leave them with a shoe minder.
- Both men and women should dress modestly to enter—long pants and sleeves, plus a head covering for women.
- The views from the minaret are amazing but the steps are steep, so young kids or those with mobility issues may want to pass on the climb.
- Women must be accompanied by a man to climb the minaret, and sometimes lone males aren’t allowed to enter either.
How to Get There
The Jama Masjid is in Old Delhi. The Delhi Metro is the easiest way to get around the city, and the nearest metro station is Chawri Bazaar. The streets of Old Delhi are very congested, so getting a taxi is not very practical, but you can take a cycle or auto rickshaw from other parts of Old Delhi.
When to Get There
Non-Muslims are only allowed to enter the Jama Masjid outside of prayer times. As Muslims pray five times a day, this means the mosque is closed quite frequently. Non-Muslims should also avoid visiting on Fridays (the Islamic holy day) and during Islamic festivals, when it is also very crowded.
Touring Mughal Old Delhi
Much of Old Delhi was planned and built by the Mughals, who ruled Delhi (and much of India) from the 16th to 19th century. Delhi’s Mughal monuments are among its finest and most distinctive—the Red Fort is across the road from the Jama Masjid and the Chandni Chowk market is also nearby. All of these Mughal Delhi highlights can easily be visited in one day.
Address: Matya Mahal, Old Delhi 110 006, India
Admission: Free
From $ 7
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
Kali Temple (Kalighat)
Kali Temple (Kalighat), built in 1809, is Kolkata’s (Calcutta) holiest Hindu site and a major pilgrimage site for Hindu devotees from around the country; with over 20,000 people visiting each day. The name of the city is said to have been derived from the temple’s name.
Kali Temple, a complex devoted to Kali, the patron goddess of Kolkata, is steeped in history and legend as violent and grisly as the goddess herself. According to myth, as the Lord Shiva was performing a dance of destruction with the corpse of Kali on his shoulders, her body was sliced into several pieces and scattered across the land. The Kali Temple is said to have been built where a toe of her right foot landed.
Human sacrifices were supposedly performed in Kali’s name on the grounds of the temple during the nineteenth century, and if you visit today, vestiges of this ancient practice remain in a daily goat sacrifice in the enclosure just to the south of the temple. Non-Hindus may not enter the inner sanctum of the temple, but you can still explore the surrounding courtyards and flower markets.
Kali Temple, a complex devoted to Kali, the patron goddess of Kolkata, is steeped in history and legend as violent and grisly as the goddess herself. According to myth, as the Lord Shiva was performing a dance of destruction with the corpse of Kali on his shoulders, her body was sliced into several pieces and scattered across the land. The Kali Temple is said to have been built where a toe of her right foot landed.
Human sacrifices were supposedly performed in Kali’s name on the grounds of the temple during the nineteenth century, and if you visit today, vestiges of this ancient practice remain in a daily goat sacrifice in the enclosure just to the south of the temple. Non-Hindus may not enter the inner sanctum of the temple, but you can still explore the surrounding courtyards and flower markets.
Address: Kolkata, India
Hours: Open daily: 5am-2pm and 5pm-10:30pm. It is closed from 2pm to 5pm for Bhog. There are Aarthis in the morning and evening.
From $ 38
Jantar Mantar
Dating back to 1726, the Jantar Mantar is an observatory with 19 fixed astronomical instruments. The tools in this UNESCO World Heritage site can be used for everything from tracking astronomical movements to predicting eclipses. It's one of five such north Indian observatories, all of which were built by Jai Singh II.
The Basics
Jai Singh II, who ruled over what is now Amber and Jaipur, was an avid astronomer and was the man responsible for constructing Jaipur, effectively moving the capital from nearby Amber. He also designed many of the tools in the Jantar Mantar, and the Samrat Yantra in the complex is the world’s largest gnomon sundial. Because of the site’s historical significance, most Jaipur tours stop here. Or, buy a ticket online in advance and explore on your own.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Jantar Mantar is a must-visit for history and science buffs.
- Make sure to wear sunscreen and a hat, as most of the complex is exposed to the sun.
- Most of the Jantar Mantar is accessible to wheelchair users, though some instruments are on platforms up a few stairs.
How to Get There
The Jantar Mantar is right next to the City Palace, in the heart of Jaipur’s Pink City and a quick walk from the Hawa Mahal. It’s easiest to reach this sight on foot or by rickshaw, because the traffic in this part of the city is often heavy. The Pink City is about a half-hour from Amber (Amer) and five hours from Delhi.
When to Get There
The Jantar Mantar is open daily from 9am to 4:30pm, and visitors often come here after touring the City Palace next door. However, you may want to visit the Jantar Mantar first thing in the morning, before the City Palace, to avoid the midday sun. If possible, try to go on a clear day, as the instruments won't work well when there's heavy cloud cover.
Many Types of Sundial
People usually picture a sundial as the horizontal type commonly seen in gardens. However, they come in other forms, from polar sundials that are lined up with the rotational axis of the earth to portable shepherd's dials, used to measure the height of the sun over the horizon. The Samrat Yantra in the Jantar Mantar is a spherical sundial and is among the world's most precise, with a shadow moving at 1 millimeter per second.
Address: Jaipur, India
Admission: Varies
From $ 5
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
Jaswant Thada
Not far from the Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur, the white-marble memorial to Maharaja Jaswant Singh II (the 33rd Rathore ruler of Jodhpur) sits majestically above a small lake. The structure is a fine example of Rajput architecture. It’s built from carved marble sheets which are so thin and polished that they emit a warm glow when the sunlight hits them.
Enclosed within a multi-level garden, the cenotaph has been built in the style of a temple, featuring domes, pillars, and sculptures. It also displays portraits of the rulers and Maharajas of Jodhpur and houses a memorial to a peacock that flew into a funeral pyre. The royal crematorium and three other cenotaphs are located near to the main memorial.
Practical Info
It should take around 15 minutes to walk from Mehrangarh Fort to Jaswant Thada, although hiring an auto-rickshaw is also an option.
Address: Near Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India 342006, India
Hours: Daily 9am-5am
Admission: Rs. 30
From $ 21
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
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
Janpath Market
Janpath Market is located along Janpath Road, just off from Connaught Place in New Delhi. A shopaholic and bargain hunter’s dream, this small yet buzzing market is full of energy, not to mention clothing, jewelry, and a whole range of other goods at astonishingly low prices.
Popular with tourists due to its location and atmosphere, Janpath Market is busy, exotic, and lively, making it an attraction for those not even planning on purchasing anything. Beginning from the Connaught Place end, you’ll find some of the oldest shops in the market selling traditional Indian items. Moving onwards, you’ll find many more shops lining the road, selling all kinds of clothing, shoes, jewelry, furniture, handicrafts, carpets, and curios.
Janpath 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 best-loved markets. A visit here can also be combined with a tour of Connaught Place and Delhi’s other key highlights.
Insider’s Tip: When shopping at Janpath Market, don’t be afraid to haggle for a better price. This is expected, so never accept the first price you’re offered by a vendor. The first rule of haggling is to keep it friendly and positive – a genuine smile goes a long way!
Practical Info
Janpath Road is located near Connaught Place, the nearest metro station to which is Rajiv Chowk. The market’s closest station, however, is the new Janpath station, which is on the violet line of the metro.
Address: Janpath Road, New Delhi, India
Hours: Open Mon-Sat 10am-9pm
From $ 14