Choose from 274 Fun Things to Do in India
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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
Mysore Palace
Mysore Palace—the former home of the Wodeyar family, who ruled the Kingdom of Mysore from 1399 until India’s independence—is an architectural marvel with equally stunning interiors. Though a fire destroyed most of the palace at the end of the 18th century, it was restored in 1912, and today is among the most visited attractions in India.
The Basics
Mysore's star attraction, and a popular stop on most city tours, Mysore Palace, aka Amba Vilas, is a gargantuan complex featuring seven palaces, all interconnected by a series of secret tunnels. The Indo-Saracenic architecture that dominates here is eye candy enough, but it's the interiors that really stand out, with their colorful stained-glass panels, intricately carved wooden doors, and ample mirror and mosaic work, not to mention a large collection of paintings and royal artillery.
Arrive with a guide as part of a Mysore day tour or as part of longer multi-day excursion from Bangalore.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Mysore Palace is a must-visit for architecture lovers and history buffs.
- The palace grounds are free to visit, but entering the interior requires a ticket.
- Sound-and-light shows are held every night, except Sundays.
- Note that photography is prohibited inside the palace.
- Shoes must be taken off before entering, though lockers are available at the gate.
How to Get There
The entrance to Mysore Palace is located at the southern end of the complex on Purandara Dasa Road. It's about a 10-minute drive or 20-minute walk from the city's main railway station, Mysuru Junction, making it easy to visit as a day trip via train from Bangalore (or Bengaluru) (the journey can take as little as two hours, via the Shatabdi Express). Many tour operators also offer day trips from Bangalore to Mysore specifically to visit the complex.
When to Get There
While Mysore is great throughout the year, with its warm winters and mild summers, travelers wishing to explore the exteriors of the palace should be prepared to get wet should they visit during the monsoon season, which runs from June through August or September. The best time to see the palace is during the annual Mysore Dasara festival in September or October.
Mysore Dasara
One of the most important festivals in Mysore, the annual Mysore Dasara is a 10-day affair featuring all sorts of celebrations, including special royal assemblies, processions of elephants and idols, and a huge fair full of food and handicraft booths. Mysore Palace is also illuminated on evenings throughout the festival, thanks to nearly 100,000 light bulbs.
Address: Purandara Dasa Road, Bangalore, India
Admission: Varies
From $ 90
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
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
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
Mylapore
The heart of cultural life in Chennai, Mylapore is a charming neighborhood characterized by broad, tree-lined streets coupled with narrow roads and myriad temples, churches, and restaurants. Its star attraction is the Kapaleeshwarar Temple, though it's also home to the San Thome Basilica, which houses the tomb of Thomas the Apostle.
The Basics
Most tourists visiting Chennai find themselves in Mylapore at some point, whether it’s to visit the Kapaleeshwarar Temple, San Thome Basilica, or Ramakrishna Math. Many walking tours of the city include this pedestrian-friendly neighborhood, and it's a great area for strolling when the weather permits. It's also a popular place to check out Carnatic music, as there are regular performances at the Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Auditorium and the Nageshwara Rao Garden.
Things to Know Before You Go
- This area is a must-visit for travelers with an interest in history and/or the fine arts.
- Mylapore is best explored on foot, so wear comfortable shoes and sunscreen.
- If you plan on entering churches or temples, dress modestly, with clothing that covers your shoulders and knees
How to Get There
Mylapore is bordered by Gandhi Beach to the east and Mowbrays Road to the west. The neighborhood is well-connected to the rest of Chennai by road and public transportation. Commuter trains run through the area, and the Mundakakanniamman Koil, Thirumayilai, and Light House train stations all serve the area.
When to Get There
Mylapore is a year-round destination, though exploring the area on foot may prove challenging during the extreme temperatures of April and May or the monsoon season of June through September. To avoid the heat, it's best to visit just after dark; this is also the time when the temples are at their liveliest.
The Peacocks of Mylapore
Mylapore has long been associated with peacocks, India's national bird. The area has been frequented by the birds for centuries, and images of peacocks can be found in statues at Kapaleeshwarar Temple; the peacocks represent Shiva's consort, Parvati, who was cursed to be incarnated as a peacock as punishment for being distracted by one of the birds while listening to spiritual discourse.
Address: Chennai, India
From $ 23
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
Mahabalipuram (Mamallapuram)
Reminiscent of the Mayan ruins in Central America, a complex of stone temples are all that remain of the eighth century Pallava dynasty along the coast two hours south of Chennai. Shore Temple, Mahabalipuram’s (Mamallapuram) most iconic landmark, consists of two intricately carved towers standing watch over the Bay of Bengal. With shrines dedicated to Shiva and Vishnu, the temple is considered one of the oldest in India. The nearby Panch Pandava Rathas, five stone shrines each carved from a single piece of rock, clearly display the astounding talent of the ancient stonemasons who built them.
Besides the monolithic stone shrines and temples, the town of Mahabalipuram gives travelers a sun-and-sand escape from the clamor of nearby Chennai. Get an early start to tour the stone monuments in the morning before the heat and domestic tourists descend; and spend your afternoon lazing on the wide, sandy beach and snacking on freshly prepared seafood at a beachside restaurant.
Besides the monolithic stone shrines and temples, the town of Mahabalipuram gives travelers a sun-and-sand escape from the clamor of nearby Chennai. Get an early start to tour the stone monuments in the morning before the heat and domestic tourists descend; and spend your afternoon lazing on the wide, sandy beach and snacking on freshly prepared seafood at a beachside restaurant.
Address: India
From $ 11
Nakhoda Mosque
The Nakhoda Mosque, the largest Mosque in Kolkata (Calcutta), was styled after the mausoleum of Emperor Akbar in Agra. The behemoth red sandstone structure, built in 1926, can accommodate 10,000 worshippers in its main prayer hall. The mosque’s green rooftop includes three domes and two large minarets with an additional 25 smaller minarets.
The mosque itself is closed to non-Muslims during prayer times, but the main draw of the mosque is the market surrounding it. The tightly packed stalls of the bazaar sell everything from prayer mats and Korans to the best kebabs and biryani, a spiced rice dish, to be found in the city.
If you plan to visit the mosque between prayer times, be sure to wear conservative clothing, including long pants and covered shoulders, or you likely won’t be allowed in. The mosque is located in one of the most congested areas of the city, so leave plenty of time to get there and out again.
The mosque itself is closed to non-Muslims during prayer times, but the main draw of the mosque is the market surrounding it. The tightly packed stalls of the bazaar sell everything from prayer mats and Korans to the best kebabs and biryani, a spiced rice dish, to be found in the city.
If you plan to visit the mosque between prayer times, be sure to wear conservative clothing, including long pants and covered shoulders, or you likely won’t be allowed in. The mosque is located in one of the most congested areas of the city, so leave plenty of time to get there and out again.
Address: Kolkata, India
Hours: Open daily: Sunrise - 8pm
From $ 100
Maharaja Fatesingh Museum
Housed within a former school for the Maharaja’s children, the Maharaja Fatesingh Museum now houses and displays a collection of artwork collected by the Maratha Royal Family as well as Maharaja Sir Sayajirao Gaekwad III, who collected extensively during his travels outside of India.
While the paintings and sculptures within the museum span the globe from Europe to East Asia, the most notable segment are the collected works of Raja Ravi Varma, one of the most esteemed painters in the history of Indian art, who painted portraits of the Royal Family as well as scenes from Hindu mythology. The sculptures by Italian artist Fellicci are also a highlight.
Practical Info
While at the museum you can purchase tickets to the Maharaja’s palace as well.
Address: Nehru Rd, Vadodara, Gujarat, India, India
Hours: Open Tues-Sun 10:30am-5:30pm
Admission: 100 rupees
From $ 83
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
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
Mahalakshmi Temple
Dating back to 1785, Mahalakshmi Temple is among Mumbai's most popular Hindu places of worship, attracting pilgrims from around the world. While it's at its busiest during the annual nine-day celebration Navratri, dedicated to the goddess, a visit any time of year will give you a good introduction to Hindu beliefs and prayer.
The Basics
Sometimes combined with a trip to the nearby Haji Ali Shrine, the Mahalakshmi Temple attracts more devotees than tourists, and people often come here to give offerings to the goddess in the form of jewelry, coconuts, and flowers. Inside the temple sit three idols to the Tridevi (triple goddess) in the forms of Lakshmi (the goddess of wealth), Kali (the goddess of destruction), and Saraswati (the goddess of music and education).
Things to Know Before You Go
- Mahalakshmi Temple is a must-visit for those interested in Hinduism.
- Be prepared to leave your shoes at the door.
- Dress conservatively, with knees and shoulders covered.
- This temple gets crowded, and lines to give offerings are often long.
How to Get There
The Mahalakshmi Temple is located in the southern part of Mumbai, right on the coast and about a 10-minute drive or half-hour walk north of the Hanging Garden. The nearest railway station is Mumbai Central, a 20-minute walk or 10-minute taxi or auto-rickshaw ride inland. The train journey from Mumbai Central to the Churchgate station (near the Oval Maidan and Bombay High Court) takes about 10 minutes.
When to Get There
This temple is open early in the morning, just before sunrise, until well after dark. If you visit during the annual Navratri Festival, which is usually in September or October and honors the goddess Durga, be prepared for huge crowds (upwards of 100,000). If weather is your biggest concern, visit between December and February, when temperatures are mild by local standards. Mumbai is best avoided during the monsoon season (June through August).
The Dream of Mahalakshmi
Legend has it that the temple was constructed when a British engineer who was struggling to complete a seawall had a prophetic dream in which the goddess Mahalakshmi told him the whereabouts of a sacred idol and instructed him to build a temple in her honor. He did as instructed, and the seawall was finally built successfully.
Address: K.K Marg, Royal Western India Turf Club, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India 400034, India
From $ 46
Mysore
The former capital of the Mysore Kingdom, which ruled over South India for more than five centuries, Mysore (officially Mysuru) is a charming little city known for its delicious food, ample yoga centers (Ashtanga yoga has its roots here), and its stunning Amba Vilas Palace, one of the most spectacular palaces in all of India.
The Basics
The name Mysore comes from the word "Mahishuru," or abode of Mahisha, a demon who was defeated here after a drawn-out battle with the goddess Chamnudeshwari. While a temple to the goddess stands to this day, the big draw for most visitors is the city's huge palace complex, one of the most popular attractions in all of South India.
Mysore can easily be visited as a day trip from Bangalore, though, unsurprisingly, most organized tours focus primarily on Mysore Palace.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Don't forget comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and sunglasses.
- Mysore is a must-visit for history buffs and lovers of art and architecture.
- If you're coming from Bangalore, take a Shatabdi Express train—it's faster than going by car or bus.
How to Get There
Mysore is easy to get to from Bangalore, with regular train services linking the two cities in two to three hours. Alternatively, the journey from Mysore to Bangalore takes around three and a half hours on National Highway 275 (or four hours from the airport), though expect to spend more than four hours in transit if you go by bus due to multiple stops. Alternatively, take a tour from Bangalore that includes round-trip transport.
When to Get There
Mysore is a year-round destination, with mild summers (by Indian standards) and warm winters. The hottest months are April and May, while the monsoon rains drench the city from June through August or September. The festival season starts in September or October with the annual Mysore Dasara festival, a celebration of the triumph of good over evil; Mysore Palace is illuminated with thousands of tiny lights throughout the duration of the festival.
Flavors of Mysore
Mysore is known across India for its food, notably Mysore pak and Mysore masala dosas. Mysore pak is a popular sweet consisting of chickpea flour, ghee (clarified butter), and sugar, often with a touch of cardamom. The Mysore masala dosa is the city’s version of a popular South Indian crepe stuffed with potatoes; in Mysore, a spicy red chutney is spread on the interior of the crepe to add some heat.
Address: Mysore, Karnataka, India
From $ 67
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
National Chambal Sanctuary
Straddling three states, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh, the National Chambal Sanctuary protects 245 square miles (635 square km) of natural habitat where the Chambal and Yamuna Rivers meet.
Established in 1979 to protect the endangered Gharial crocodiles, the park is now home to a number of rare and endangered species, including the Ganges River dolphin, marsh crocodile, smooth-coated otter, Indian wold, Indian striped hyena and eight species of turtles. More than 300 species of resident and migratory birds have been spotted within the sanctuary.
Visitors hoping for a glimpse of river dolphins, crocodiles and other wildlife can do so on guided boat tours of the Chambal River. Nature trails wind along the river, offering further wildlife observation opportunities.
Practical Info
The National Chambal Sanctuary is located 43 miles (70 km) southeast of Agra. The best way to get there is by guided tour or private car.
Address: Mau Road, Rajasthan, India
Hours: 5am-7pm
From $ 38
Madras High Court
Inaugurated in July of 1892, the Madras High Court is one of only three (along with Mumbai and Kolkata) in modern India that was established by royal charter under Queen Victoria. Architecturally, it’s one of the city’s most stunning examples of the Indo-Saracenic aesthetic, displaying Moorish, European, Islamic and Hindu elements in its red sandstone facade.
The domes, minarets and other decorative elements of the building’s exterior are matched in grandeur within, where guided tours take visitors through the various court rooms, many appointed with stained glass windows and exquisite works of art.
An interesting note: The Madras High Court is one of the few buildings in India to have been damaged by a German attack during the early years of World War I.
Practical Info
The Madras High Court is open Monday through Saturday and is located just north of Fort St. George.
Address: N Fort Rd, Parrys, George Town, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, India
From $ 8
National Gallery of Modern Art
Located just across the traffic circle from India Gate along Rajpath, the National Gallery of Modern Art was opened in 1954 as a place to feature contemporary Indian art. Housed within the former palace of the maharaja of Jaipur, the museum houses a collection of works by Indian and British artists from 1850 onward.
One of the most fascinating things about visiting the museum is seeing how differently modern art developed in India compared to the United States or Europe. With a collection spanning 150 years, browsing the galleries is akin to a crash course in modern Indian art history. Combine your visit with a stop at the nearby National Museum to complete the picture.
One of the most fascinating things about visiting the museum is seeing how differently modern art developed in India compared to the United States or Europe. With a collection spanning 150 years, browsing the galleries is akin to a crash course in modern Indian art history. Combine your visit with a stop at the nearby National Museum to complete the picture.
Practical Info
While the museum’s collection is dominated by painting, you’ll also find
exhibits on modern sculpture, print making and photography. Don’t miss
the collection of colorful paintings by Amrita Sher-Gil and the works of
British artist Thomas Daniell.
Address: C-Hexagon, Delhi High Court, India Gate, New Delhi, ND 110001, India
Hours: Tue-Sun 10am-5pm, closed Mondays.
Admission: Indian: INR10; Foreign National: INR150; Student/Child: INR1
From $ 36
Malabar Hill
Mumbai’s most exclusive neighborhood, Malabar Hill sits at the northern end of Marine Drive and is home to some of the most expensive real estate in the city. An eclectic mix of modern buildings and old colonial mansions, Malabar Hill is where Mumbai's rich and famous reside.
Yet Malabar Hill is an area you wouldn’t visit unless you knew about it beforehand, or if you happened to extend a walk to the very end of Marine Drive; its exclusivity comes not only from accommodating Mumbai’s rich and elite then, but from having a location that is simply not on the way to anywhere else.
At the north end, in the crook of Malabar Hill, lies the infamous Chowpatty Beach, a long stretch of grey-white sand and a focal point in Mumbai for locals and tourists alike. While strolling up the hill, be sure to stop to admire the views of Marine Drive and take a photo or two. Malabar Hill is also home to a smattering of tourist attractions, including Banganga Tank, Walkeshwar Temple, and the Hanging Gardens.
Practical Info
Malabar Hill is located at the northern end of Back Bay in South Mumbai. It can be reached via both Walkeshwar Road and Napean Sea Road. The nearest train station is Grant Road (on the Western Railways line).
Address: Mumbai, India
From $ 34
Nahargarh Fort
Situated in Rajasthan’s Aravalli Hills, not far from Amber Fort (Amer Fort), Nahargarh is the oldest of three forts built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh (Jai Singh II). Dating to 1734, this majestic fort—aka the Tiger Fort—is largely in a state of ruin, but is still worth a visit for its amazing view of Jaipur city below.
The Basics
Nahargarh Fort was originally built to help defend nearby Amber Fort, though it was later expanded under Maharaja Sawai Ram Singh II and Sawai Madho Singh II. Highlights include a palace with nine apartments (one for each of Ram Singh’s nine wives), many of which contain original frescoes, and the spectacular views. The fort also features an underground system of rainwater harvesting tanks, which allegedly could hold enough water to keep the fort going for a couple of years.
Many tours of Jaipur and the Golden Triangle stop here. Composite tickets that allow access to a number of Jaipur sights are accepted here, but are sold only at Amber (Amer) Fort, Albert Hall, the Hawa Mahal, and Jantar Mantar.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Nahargarh is great for those with an interest in military history.
- The fort features a small café serving snacks and meals at reasonable prices.
- Wear comfortable footwear, as the ground here can be uneven in spots.
- If visiting in the middle of the day, be sure to wear sun protection.
How to Get There
Nahargarh is located just outside of Jaipur’s Pink City area, about a 20-minute drive from the City Palace, the Hawa Mahal, and Jantar Mantar. The fort is also directly connected to Jaigarh (also a 20-minute drive) via a back road. Getting to the fort is arduous for travelers coming on foot from the base of the hill—it’s easiest to hire a taxi or visit as part of an organized sightseeing tour. Delhi is a 5-hour drive away or between 4.5 and six hours by train.
When to Get There
Nahargarh is open from 10am daily throughout the year, though temperatures are at their most pleasant during the cooler (but still warm) winter months. Visit around sunset to truly appreciate the fort’s great views and light for photography.
The Ghost of Nahar Singh Bhomia
According to local legend, the fort stands on land that was once haunted by a prince named Nahar Singh Bhomia. The ghost kept causing problems during the construction of the fort, and he agreed to stop causing a ruckus only if the fort was named after him; a temple in his honor sits within the fort to this day.
Address: Jaipur, India
Admission: Varies
From $ 5