Where to rest in India. The best resorts in India

Mysterious and wise India is a great vacation on the beaches of Goa and Kerala, colorful Delhi and the floating Himalayas, the treasures of the Golden Triangle and the ancient secrets of Ayurveda, rave discos and yoga tours. Photo, visa, road, maps and hotels - everything about India from the intricacies of tourism.

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India is one of the most amazing countries in South Asia. The cradle of an ancient civilization, the birthplace of Buddhism and Hinduism, today it ranks second on the planet in terms of population and continues to fall in love with travelers eager for incredible discoveries.

India is mysterious, unlike any other land on earth. Fireworks of colors and aromas, a kaleidoscope of traditions, sometimes shocking, but remaining untouchable from time immemorial. Majestic palaces, ancient temples and other ceremonial sights side by side with rickety shacks and noisy bazaars - there is no wealth here, but there is life. And the background to everything is magnificent landscapes: mountain peaks, jungles, beaches - the local nature is generous with beauty. People come here for enlightenment: apart from the bustle of the West, you begin to look at the world with different eyes. And here they sunbathe under the gentle sun, conquer obstinate waves, have fun at fashionable resorts, comprehend the true meanings of yoga. India, with all its traditions and history of 5000 years, fits perfectly into modern reality.

Regions and resorts of India

Moscow time difference

2.5 hours

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Climate

India maps

Visa and customs

To visit India, Russians need a visa: single, double or multiple, valid for 3 or 6 months. It is officially impossible to extend a visa while in the country. In addition, it is worth taking out a health insurance policy in advance for the entire trip.

A trick for those who are flying to Goa: a permit for a 15-day stay in the state can be obtained directly at the airport, having previously agreed on the intricacies with a local travel agency.

The import of foreign currency is not limited, amounts from 5,000 USD in cash or from 10,000 USD together with checks and securities must be declared. It is allowed to import 50 cigars, 200 cigarettes or 250 g of tobacco (optional); 2 liters of any alcohol; 250 ml of eau de toilette or 60 ml of perfume; by one name of personal items (laptops, strollers, household appliances, etc.). Weapons, animals, birds, plants, gold and silver jewelry (except for personal), gifts and things for sale are subject to declaration. Customs duty is 60% of the item's value. Banned: drugs, antiques over 100 years old, gold and silver bars, bird plumage, pork, rare animal skins, counterfeit money, pornography and Indian currency. Weapons, ammunition, live plants and animals - only with special permission.

You cannot take out of the country local currency, pornography, any fakes, antiques over 100 years old, skins of rare reptiles and animals, wildlife objects, jewelry worth more than INR 2000 (unless they are bought in duty free), bird feathers and drugs.

• What are the requirements for India's passport validity period?

How to get to India

The cheapest and fastest flights to Cochin from Moscow are from Air Arabia (10 hours via Sharjah), from St. Petersburg, Scandinavian Airlines and Qatar Airways fly with two transfers (32 hours via Stockholm and Doha). The same tandem carries from the Northern capital to Trivandrum (16 hours with connections in Moscow and Doha), it is more convenient for Muscovites to fly with Air Arabia (11 hours via Sharjah).

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Transport

Traveling around the country is most comfortable and fastest by plane. Domestic flights are operated by Indigo, Go Air, Jet Airways, Spice Jet and other carriers. Sometimes they offer great prices: for example, you can fly from the capital to Mumbai with Go Air for 7500 INR and 2 hours. But in most cases it is cheaper to travel by train (long distance) or bus (short distance). It is more profitable to travel by rail by trains of the 2nd class with air conditioning and carriages of two types: 4 and 6 people per compartment. The prices on the page are for November 2019.

A special air-conditioned train, the Taj Express, runs between Delhi and Agra: it leaves the capital in the morning and returns in the evening. Tickets - 5800 INR in 1st class, 1600 INR in 2nd.

At the main railway stations of the largest cities and at international airports there are separate "windows" or even halls for selling tickets to foreigners under a special quota (usually for dollars, and change is given in rupees).

The bus network in India is well developed: there are state and private transport companies in every state. The average cost of 1 km of travel by public bus is from 1 INR. Private carrier rates depend on the class of the bus and the distance.

Urban transport

Shuttle buses run in almost all Indian settlements. Opening hours - until 19:30, ticket prices - at the rate of 2-3 INR per 1 km. In large cities - Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata - there is a subway. The metro ticket costs 15-60 INR depending on the distance.

Taxis in India are public and private. The first - with a fixed payment on the counter or prepayment at special cash desks. Secondly, you can and should bargain, knocking down to 50% of the price announced by the driver. The average taxi fare is 8-12 INR per 1 km, transfer from the airport to Delhi is 350-450 INR, to Goa - from 700 INR and more.

Motor rickshaws, or tuk-tukas, are an exotic, fast and convenient way to get around the city. And quite affordable: 2-2.5 times cheaper than a regular taxi. A cycle rickshaw is an option suitable only for a sightseeing walk around the city: the speed of a turtle, no convenience. And if the passenger is "in the body", they don't pull up the hill at all, you have to get out and walk alongside. Another authentic transport is tempo, an analogue of Thai songteos: pick-up trucks with two wooden benches in the back. You can ride them for 30 INR.

One day in India

Rent a Car

In short: better not. There are several reasons, one more weighty than the other: firstly, the tracks are narrow (albeit in fair condition), and sometimes there are no markings and road signs. Secondly, the traffic is very dense practically around the clock, in the general stream there are carts, motorcycles, people drawn by oxen; various representatives of the local fauna regularly appear on the canvas. Last but not least, Indian drivers do not follow even the minimum traffic rules. To top it all off, driving in India is left-hand drive. Therefore, to travel around the country, it is better to rent a car with a driver. It's not too expensive, but it's safe.

The most popular means of transportation in India are motorcycles and scooters. Very convenient if you consider the traffic density. The average cost of scooter rental is 200-400 INR per day, while the bargaining has not been canceled, especially if the rental period is more than a week. Required documents: passport and driver's license.

Connectivity and Wi-Fi

In India, you can significantly save on telephone calls if you use the services of local mobile operators. It is not difficult to buy a SIM card: for this you need to present your passport and one color 3x4 photograph (since there is practically no place to take a picture on the spot, it is better to take the picture with you) Mobile communications do not yet cover the entire territory of India, but the situation is changing rapidly. The most popular carriers are Idea, Reliance, Vodafone and Airtel. The average cost of prepaid SIM cards is 200-300 INR. Incoming calls are free, outgoing within one state - 0.72-1.50 INR, to other states - 1-2 INR, to Russia - about 20-25 INR per minute.

Unique, distinctive, unlike other countries, India, like a magnet, attracts tourists from all over the world. People come here to get acquainted with the rich history, culture, architecture of an ancient people that has preserved centuries-old traditions. But this country welcomes guests not only with sights. Many tourists go purposefully to visit the resorts of India, which are not inferior, and in some ways even surpass the best health resorts in developed tourist countries.

India provides a diversified vacation. There are sea and ski resorts here. The best resorts by the sea are located in Kerala, Goa, Mumbai, Chennai. It is advisable to go to the sea when the cold season is in Russia, from October to March. On the Indian coast during this period there is no exhausting heat and showers, the sea is calm and serene. Ski resorts are located in the Himalayas, surrounded by beautiful landscapes.

Beach resorts

Most of the country is washed by the waters of the Indian Ocean, more precisely, the Bay of Bengal is located from the southwest, and the Arabian Sea from the southeast. The length of the coastline exceeds 7 thousand km. The state of Goa on the coast of the Arabian Sea is one of the most famous resorts in the world. The way of life here is completely different from the traditional Hindu. Forty beaches not polluted by civilization by the endless warm sea welcomes tourists.

The ocean and sandy beaches are the main values \u200b\u200bfor which people from all over the world come to Goa every year. Many of them are sure that there is no better region for recreation on the entire planet. The water space off the coast of Goa is the Arabian Sea (part of the Indian Ocean). For the sake of this sea, most vacationers choose Goa among other beach resorts. Usually, the quality of sea recreation in resorts is judged by the number of bathing, and only then are comparisons made in terms of prices, service, attractions, cuisine.

It is with sea bathing in Goa that things are in the best way. Although there are more beautiful places on the planet, the water temperature is always very pleasant for the body. It never falls below 28 ° C, which is rare in other resorts. You can stay in this water indefinitely and swimming will never end with a cold. Such warm seas are found only in the tropics.

Since the body of water is part of the ocean, waves near the coast are almost always observed, but they are small and do not interfere with swimming at all. In some months the waves are more, in others less, but in the swimming season they are always safe. Because of the small waves, surfers do not have the opportunity to practice their favorite sport, as well as divers, because there are absolutely no corals here. The depth of the Arabian Sea near the coast is shallow, the bottom is flat, sandy, very pleasant to the touch.

Children swim 5-10 m from the shore, where the water barely reaches the knee for adults. For normal swimming, you should go to a depth of 50–100 m. A little further in the sea there are no waves and being in a silent smooth water space brings real bliss. There are no dangerous marine predators off the coast of Goa, so swimming is completely safe. Children from swimming in such a comfortable sea get a lot of positive emotions.

The swimming season in Goa lasts 6 months (mid-October - mid-April). During this period, the ocean behaves differently. In October, sea water is like fresh milk, its temperature ranges from 30 to 32 ° C. As the rainy season comes to an end, waves and showers are still possible. In November, the sea finally calms down, creating the best sailing conditions. In December, the water is slightly cooler, but there are no waves and swimming is also very pleasant.

In January, the sea water temperature is minimal - 28 ° C, it refreshes the body and fills the soul with bliss. At the beginning of February, winds come, stirring the sea surface. Small waves appear, which many vacationers use to swing on them. In February, the climate is no longer so stable, clear days give way to cloudy ones. In March, the Indian summer begins with hot weather, which not all tourists who come from cold regions can easily tolerate.

Although the climate in Goa is milder than in Egypt, in March you can get a tan in just a few days, so you shouldn't forget about sunscreen. The water temperature is as comfortable as in October, but the sea is not constant, waves are possible. In April, air humidity rises, the water warms up to 34 ° C, waves intensify.

In May, there are even fewer bathing days, and the water is not refreshing at all, as its temperature is 36 ° C. The flow of tourists is thinning, people on the beaches are becoming less and less. In June, the rainy season comes, muddy streams from the surrounding hills flow down, flooding the beaches. It is dangerous to enter the seething ocean.

Goa resort

Benaulim

To the south of Benaulim lies a strip of well-groomed coastline with a length of 10 km - Varga & Cavelossim... There are beaches of the highest category and the best hotels. Distant beaches - Patolem and Butul, where the infrastructure is poorly developed.

Kerala

Kerala, located south of Goa, is also a tropical tourist paradise. It stretches for 590 km along the Arabian Sea. In its western part there are coastal plains, in the central regions the terrain is hilly, further to the east there are hills, passing into the Western Ghats. As a tourist region, Kerala began to develop relatively recently, from the 80s of the last century. Numerous lakes and lagoons, tropical nature, clean beaches are attractive in terms of tourism. The best beaches of Kerala are located in the vicinity of the cities of Alleppey, Varkala, Kannur, Kovalam.

The climate in the region is mild tropical, it can rain at any time of the year, but there are only two monsoon periods - June-July and October. The hottest months are March and April, when the thermometer can reach 36 ° C during the day and 30 ° C at night. The beaches in Kerala, although small, are municipal.

The flat sandy beach of the Alapuzha resort is located in a picturesque area, among lakes, lagoons and streams. At the far end are palm groves. The beach attracts lovers of relaxation, and the entertainment park "Vijaya Beach" is equipped with picnic areas and playgrounds.

Varkala is famous for its healing springs. Here, for a small fee, locals give tourists a special body massage. Kovalam is located in a bay with coral reefs, so you can go diving, riding on catamarans. The beach is conventionally divided into three sections, the least populated of them is Marari.

The most unique of Indian beaches is Mujappilangad. From the sea, it is protected by rocks, and you can get around by car along a four-kilometer strip of sand. Kerala hotels harmoniously fit into the surrounding landscape, located in bays and on the shores of lakes. Comfortable 4-5-star hotels have been built near Lake Vembanad, offering diversified recreation, combining excursions to waterfalls and lakes, and entertainment.

Mumbai (Bombay)

To the north of Goa, on the coast of the Arabian Sea, lies the most populous city in the country, Bombay, which is now called Mumbai. Those who want not only to relax on the beaches, but also to explore the sights of the famous Bombay and plunge into its nightlife come here. Here are the best shops in the country and famous Bollywood - one of the largest film companies in the world. Juhu Beach is located in an expensive residential area of \u200b\u200bthe city. There are many high-class hotels, cafes, restaurants and shops lined up along the coast.

Chennai (Madras)

There are many good resorts around Chennai, on the east coast of the Bay of Bengal. Marina Beach is one of the longest in the world, with a length of 12 km. This place was chosen by the locals, so it is the dirtiest. The other two beaches, Eliots and Breezy, are much more comfortable for walking. There are many historical monuments in these places that testify to the colonial history of Chennai.

Ski resorts

India is famous not only for its excellent beach resorts, but also for the opportunity to go downhill skiing surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Although the Himalayas are quite long and the highest mountains on the planet, there are not so many places for quality skiing. Tourists from developed countries rarely visit the Indian slopes, because in Europe there are places closer and better. And yet India has great ski resorts. Some come to these places not so much for skiing as for a unique opportunity to admire the mountain landscapes.

The best ski resorts are located in the states of Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh and Kashmir. The most loved by tourists is the Gulmag resort in the state of Kashmir. There are favorable conditions for alpine skiing - a lot of snow, suitable terrain, well-located lifts. The best skiing season starts in mid-December and ends in March. Rest at this resort is sometimes called "imperial", recalling that the Mongol emperors once loved to rest on this land. There are convenient slopes for skiing and the highest cable car with a length of about five kilometers.

Auli is another resort popular among skiers. The territory is reliably protected from the wind by coniferous forests. The total length of the slopes is 10 km, there are rental points, ski schools. Both beginners and more advanced skiers ride here. The 5 km long main slope is equipped with several lifts. The season starts in December and lasts until mid-May. It is the site of the national alpine skiing championships. Although there are still few hotels, they are distinguished by good service, providing everything you need for a comfortable stay in the mountains.

Narkanda is a mountain resort at an altitude of 2700 m, located among pine and spruce forests, thanks to which the air is filled with coniferous aromas. The variety of numerous slopes, slopes and tracks makes it possible to ride for everyone - professionals, amateurs and even children.

Solang, located at an altitude of 2800 m, is one of the most picturesque mountain resorts in the country. There are two tracks, separated by a fence, and two lifts. Families of local Hindus with children like to relax here, the newlyweds enjoy their honeymoon. Snack bars and small cafes are located in the neighboring village outside Solang.

Whatever resorts in India tourists choose for vacation, this mysterious and attractive country will leave an unforgettable mark in the heart of every connoisseur of beauty.

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Holidays in India

Holidays in India

Holidays in India

Recently, many tourists have been attracted by India, where rest gives the opportunity to immerse yourself in a unique flavor, acquaintance with the ancient history, which gave us many of our favorite things - incense, spices, tea and much more. It has been making travelers fall in love with itself for hundreds of years, and in recent years has been actively developing in the tourism sector, offering its guests a varied vacation.

Pros and cons of India

Holidays in India, like in many other countries, have their advantages and disadvantages.

As a result, we can conclude that Goa is an excellent place for a comfortable beach holiday, and India as a whole is suitable for those who want to enjoy the Indian flavor and plunge into oriental culture, accepting all its shortcomings.

Climate

The year in India is divided into three seasons - summer from March to June, long rainy season from June to September and winter from November to February. It is generally characterized by high humidity in summer and dryness in winter, as for any country in the monsoon climate zone. Since the country covers a large area, the temperature in different regions is very different, and in the mountainous area there is generally a zone with a special high-mountain climate.

In the highlands of the Himalayas, of course, the temperature can drop below and even reach minus marks.

Goa

Where to relax in India if not in Goa? This is the most popular beach recreation area for Russian tourists. This state is divided into two zones. In the southern zone, rest is calm and more expensive, in the northern zone it is inexpensive, noisy and youthful.

Beaches

Goa does not occupy a very large area, but the concentration of beaches here is simply huge. The beaches of the southern and northern parts of the state should be considered separately.

The beaches of southern Goa are almost the same, they are located at hotels and are suitable for a relaxing holiday with children. Separately, it is worth highlighting Varka with its wonderful views, loved by tourists, Cavelosim, Utorda with soft silky sand and Majorda, a secluded beach in nature with numerous entertainment, bars and restaurants. Agonda is considered a good beach - here you can relax from the hustle and bustle among the dense tropics. Almost in the very south of Goa is Palolem - a beach with a developed infrastructure, but a complete lack of entertainment.

North Goa is more loved by young people who prefer to relax actively and inexpensively. In the very north is Arambol (Harmal) - a favorite zone for freaks and informals. Calangute and Baga are considered one of the best beaches in Goa - this is where many of our tourists rest. Anjuna is considered a picturesque place, where young people from all over the world come to see the nightlife - while the water and sand are not so good here. Morjim is also popular among Russian tourists - it is not for nothing that the locals informally call it "Moscow Beach".

sights

People go to Goa mainly for a beach holiday, but there are also sights here. For example, you can visit the capital of the state - the city of Panaji with interesting ancient architecture. The Kotegao reserve is also interesting - a place far from civilization and inhabited by rare wild animals. Also, tourists love to visit the Dudhsagar waterfall. And in North Goa there are a lot of temples and architectural monuments, to which you can get out directly from the resorts.

Also very interesting in Goa is the tiger reserve, the elephant training center and other similar places where you can closely get acquainted with wildlife and animals. For the entertainment of children, there is Bhaqwan Mahaveer, an amusement park that will appeal to adults as well. Tourists also love Splashdown Water Park.

Shopping

This is not to say that Goa is suitable for full-fledged shopping. For shopping here it is better to choose small markets and malls, as well as large markets - the night market in Arpora, the day market in Anjuna and the market in Mapusa. They mainly feature items made by local craftsmen and various authentic souvenirs.

In Anjuna, you can shop in the large Oxford Arcade supermarket, which sells mainly groceries, souvenirs, clothes and goods for children. And in the Benaulim beach area there is a Shop'N'Save supermarket that sells everything from souvenirs to clothing.

Delhi

Delhi is the capital of India, a beautiful and ancient city with a unique Indian flavor, ancient sights and Indian bazaars.

sights

The capital of India is interesting mainly for its sights and an amazing combination of colonial chic, slums, majestic temples and the most modern buildings.

You should definitely look at the Red Fort of the Mongol times - a real city within the city. Also, be sure to pay attention to Jami Masjid, the largest mosque in India, the Hare Krishna temple Lakshmi Narayan and the Kutab Minar complex, built by the Mongols. And in general, it is just interesting to walk around the city, imbued with the Indian atmosphere.

Shopping

Delhi is a great place for shopping and souvenir shopping. There are a lot of trading platforms here, so we will consider the most popular ones:

• Main bazaar area with fruit and vegetable stalls and stalls with inexpensive Indian clothes, spices, incense, jewelry and musical instruments. They also sell Ayurvedic products and Tibetan rugs. But it is better not to buy shoes here, since they are not very high-quality at Main bazaar;

• Nehru Bazaar next to Main bazaar selling teas, sweets, fruits and incense. There are also a lot of jewelry stores and shops with cheap Indian consumer goods. However, quality products can also be found;
• Palika bazaar is an ordinary Indian market. But in summer during the daytime it is very cool here, which makes shopping more comfortable;
• Khadi is a shop on Konnaut, a two-story European building. On the ground floor they sell food and cosmetics, and on the second floor they sell quality clothes;
• Chandi Chouk is a large shopping mall from the streets next to the Red Fort. Each street is responsible for its own goods - on one they sell wooden products, on the other silver, and so on;
• South Extension - shopping mall with the best clothing and footwear at affordable prices;
• Yashvant Plase is a shopping center with inexpensive leather goods, medicines and jewelry. The vendors here speak Russian;
• Sarojini Market is a shop for hiking enthusiasts with affordable prices.

Kerala

Kerala is another southern resort with gorgeous beaches and amazing tropical nature.

Beaches

The most famous beaches of this resort are Kappad, Kovalama and Alaluzh. Those who enjoy a relaxing holiday prefer Marari and Varkala.

Kovalam in general is one of the best beaches in all of India. It is divided into three more zones, of which young people prefer the Northern Lighthouse, fans of wild recreation - Samamundra, and something in between is offered by Hawakh.

Another beach, Marina Beach, is popular with the locals, so it's pretty dirty here.

sights

There are many natural attractions in Kerala - jungles, reserves, plantations, backwaters and lagoons will not leave anyone indifferent. If you are more interested in architecture, then you can look at Cochin - a city on a dozen islands, in which almost all the peoples of the world have left their mark. Also, tourists like the Temple of Krishna in the village of Guruvayur and the Javhar National Park.

Shopping

There is a large shopping center in Kovalam where you can buy fabrics, jewelry, Ayurvedic medicines and souvenirs. The resorts sell wooden products, coffee, tea, and jewelry with precious stones.

Agra

sights

Agra is an ancient city, the main attraction of which is the Taj Mahal. Thousands of tourists from all over the world come here to see it - the building is truly magnificent.

At a distance of two kilometers from the main attraction of India is the 16th century Agra Fort with palaces, mosques, terraces and amazing gardens.

Also in the vicinity of Agra is the city of Fatehpur Sikri, the former capital of the Great Mongols. Tourists and pilgrims flock here to the tomb of Saint Chishti.

Shopping

There are small shops throughout Agra, but many tourists say that shopping is better in the malls. The largest are Sadash, Osval, Akbar International and Sadar Bazar. Also, there are large clothing markets near the mosques where you can buy traditional clothes.

Mumbai

Mumbai is Indian Hollywood, a city with many attractions. Although located by the sea, this place is not very suitable for a beach holiday.

Beaches

Although there are beaches here, you shouldn't swim here - the sand is dirty, the sea is also not very clean, and during the monsoons strong currents prevail. And the locals look askance at open swimsuits. If you still want to swim, then stop by the beaches in the Northwest Mumbai area or Girgaon Chowpaty Beach in southern Mumbai.

sights

In Mumbai, be sure to visit the Elephant Island and look into the galleries and museums of the Cala Goda area. The local fort with the train station, the University and the Supreme Court is also interesting. And tourists often climb Malabar Hill with the Valkeshvara Temple, Hanging Gardens, Jogeshwari Caves, Banganga-Tank springs and Zoroastrian "Towers of Silence".

Shopping

The best place to buy clothes and shoes is Fashion Street. Many retail outlets are concentrated in the Linking Road, Pherozeshah Mehta Road, Cuffe Parade and Colaba Causeway. Clothes are also sold at Chowk Fountain. Jewelry can be bought at the Oberoi and Taj hotels.

If markets are more your thing, then be sure to check out Chon Bazar, which sells works by local craftsmen, Assure with jewelry, Dhaboo Street market with leather goods, and Crawford, which sells vegetables and fruits. ...

Himalayas

In addition to the usual rest, India offers active rest in the Himalayas - a vast mountain system in the north of the country. It will appeal to those who are interested in the ancient religious culture of India with its monasteries and shrines. The Himalayas also offer tourists ample opportunities for hiking and skiing.

Skiing

Every year, outdoor enthusiasts flock to the Himalayas for skiing. Of all the resorts, the most popular is Gulmarg - it has existed since 1998. The resort is famous for long, up to 15 kilometers, slopes, virgin tracks and excellent forest freeride.

Another famous resort is Auli, with the best slopes, a four-kilometer cable car and 10 kilometers of trails. It is mainly aimed at beginner skiers.

If you are looking for an Indian-style resort, then Solang is a picturesque place with slopes for skiers of all skill levels.

sights

The main attractions of the Himalayas are Tibetan monasteries and various temples. Tourists love the temples in Badrinath and Kedarnath, the Golden Temple in Amritsar and, of course, Shambhala. Many people drop by martial arts and meditation schools, not only for training, but just out of curiosity. Also, tourists love to visit the sacred city of Haridwar, the city of Rishikesh and Ladakh ashrams. The routes to many of the attractions are difficult, so be prepared to take long walks.

Souvenirs

In order for your vacation in India to be remembered for a long time, you definitely need to bring something from there. It is a daunting task to list all the authentic Indian souvenirs, so let's focus on the most popular ones:

Products made of silk, cotton and other natural fabrics

Perfect souvenir for women. Of particular interest is the sari, a long piece of fabric traditionally wrapped in Indian women. Silk scarves are best bought in Kashmir

Bijouterie

An excellent and fairly inexpensive souvenir. If you want to buy real gems, then go to Jaipur, and for silver you should go to Rajasthan - there is a large selection and low prices. Gold souks work everywhere, but it's very easy to find a fake

Indian figurines

A beautiful and authentic souvenir. Interesting, for example, are Indian matryoshka elephants or figurines of gods. It is best to buy them in Delhi - prices are lower there.

Tea and spices

Inexpensive, but very good gift. Local teas are very different from those that we drink, and mostly for the better. Such a gift will be remembered for a long time and will not lie dead weight. It is better to buy spices and teas at grocery markets

An interesting souvenir will be local rum, which is sold in abundance everywhere, especially in Goa.

Indian incense

Undoubtedly a very good souvenir that can take you back to India at least for a while. They are of high quality and truly fragrant, unlike the incense that we sell. Such a souvenir is quite inexpensive

Natural cosmetic

Scrubs, soaps, shampoos, etc. Their quality is excellent, and the prices are quite low.

Indian rug

An expensive and luxurious souvenir. Does not fit into every design, but will delight you for many years

Indian traditional medicines

Trishun, Nim, ashwagandha and kailas jevan are especially popular. Many people buy unusual toothpaste, for example, with pepper

Visa and customs

Visa is required to travel to India. In general, getting a tourist visa, especially a single entry visa, is not difficult. It is valid for 30-56 days. Multiple or triple entry is issued for three months.

To travel to Goa, a visa is issued directly at the airport, but you cannot travel outside the state with it

The customs rules are standard - you cannot import alcohol, drugs and other illegal things, alcohol and cigarettes are taxed. It is impossible to export items of national treasure, with the rest of the problems usually do not arise.

How to get there

When choosing where to relax in India, the question inevitably arises of how best to get there?

By plane

The easiest way to get to India is by plane - there are regular flights to Delhi from Moscow and other cities. There are also quite a few flights direct to Goa. Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways, flydubai, Etihad Airways and Air Arabia fly from Russia to India with transfers, and these flights are often more convenient.

By train

You can also get there by rail with a change in Bangladesh or Pakistan, but it will take a long time.

By car

It will take a long and difficult journey by car, through Pakistan and Iran.

Transport in India

Urban public transport in India is mainly represented by buses. In large and resort cities, they are modern, but private and suburban buses are often dilapidated and not very comfortable. But this way of getting around the country is very cheap.

There are three types of taxis in India - regular taxis, rickshaws and pedicabs. Their services are inexpensive, but the price must be negotiated in advance.

India is most often seen by a Russian tourist as a fabulous country. And it's not about Bollywood at all. This is a truly unique, ancient, colorful, unlike any other country that attracts tourists from all over the world.

People come here to touch the magnificent world with its cultural, historical and architectural monuments, to visit the excellent resorts of India, which are not inferior in service to the resorts of Western Europe, and surpass them in quality.

Geography

India is located in South Asia. It is one of the largest states in the world, bordering Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Indonesia, etc.

Perhaps, besides Pakistan and modern Myanmar, other countries also have a developed tourist infrastructure. This region is a treasure trove of attractions, rich in unique monuments of history and culture.

Climate

India is located in the tropics and subtropics. Much of this country rains from June to October due to humid southeast winds. From November to February it is relatively cool here, this is the best time for tourism and recreation. And in spring - from March to May - it is very dry and hot. Not every tourist will be able to endure this time. Those. it is best to rest here in winter.

History

India was inhabited 500,000 years ago; Homo erectus lived here. Around the 3rd millennium BC the Indus Valley civilization appeared, and the first cities were built. And in the II-I millennium BC. the Vedic civilization arose.

It was she who gave the world the Vedas - the holy books of Judaism, written in Sanskrit. Later in India around the 10th century BC. Buddhism began to spread, the first small republics and "kingdoms" appeared, and the Upanishads were written.

In the V century. BC. the north and west of India was conquered by the Persians, and a hundred years later Alexander the Great came there. After his departure, almost the entire Indian subcontinent fell under the rule of the Mauryan dynasty.

The "golden age" of India is considered to be several centuries of the beginning of our era. At that time, it was not a single state, but several powerful empires existed on its territory, which left a significant mark on history.

Over the next centuries, Islam came here, the Delhi Sultanate and the Mughal Empire existed on this territory. And after the collapse of the latter, until 1947, India was a British colony. Today it is an independent state.

Population

India is the second most populous country after China with more than 1.3 billion people. Moreover, more than 2/3 are rural residents. There are more literate people among men than among women. In general, about 70% of the population is literate

Language and religion

The main language in the country is Hindi. English is widely used in business and is considered an auxiliary official language. Also, there are peoples who speak Sanskrit, Urdu, Bengali, Bodo, etc.

More than 80% of the inhabitants of this country profess Hinduism, about 15% - Islam. In addition, Christians, Buddhists, Sikhs live here, Jainism, animism and other religious beliefs have their audience.

Culture

The culture of this great country is diverse. Thanks to its long history, it has absorbed the customs of many peoples, preserved its most ancient traditions and adopted the culture of conquerors, colonialists and immigrants.

Traditional family values \u200b\u200bare highly valued and supported by the people and the state here, when several generations live in one family at once. Although today in cities an ordinary married family with children is preferred.

All stages of its historical past are intertwined in Indian architecture. Here you can find ancient Buddhist stupas (temples), ancient Muslim mosques and Christian temples of different directions of this faith.

Indian folk songs are very popular in music, for example the local music style filmi. You can see dances in the style of bhangra, bifu, chhau, etc. right on the street. Some local dances have been awarded the title of classical.

In Indian cinema, we know such a thing as Bollywood, although there is also Tollywood and Collywood. The film industry of this country is the largest in the world. All films are based on Hindu myths and are accompanied by national dances and songs.

In different states there are different types of national theater: bhavai, jatra, ramlila, tamasha, etc., which is also based on the Vedas, ancient Hindu myths, decorated with folk dances and music.

Ancient works of literature have been passed from mouth to mouth for centuries, and were written down relatively recently. This is Sanskrit literature: Vedas, Mahabharata, Ramayana, Mahakavya poetry, etc.

India is strong in its unique regions, and each has its own cuisine. In any case, these cuisines are famous for the use of various roots, seasonings, herbs, spices, especially black and red peppers in the preparation of dishes.

Rice and wheat are the staple foods in India. Here you can always get a thali lunch at a fixed price from local dishes: rice, beans with sauces, fresh and pickled vegetables, Indian fruits, sweets and drinks.

Major holidays

Most of the holidays in India are of religious or caste origin. All of them are celebrated widely and with a large crowd of people. Tourists from all over the world love to take part in all India and local celebrations.

The most common ones are:

Kurban-Bayram,

Nativity,

Veisakhi, etc.

Traditional medicine

Ayurveda is an ancient Indian medicine based on Vedic and Buddhist religious literature. Indians believe that Ayurveda is a part of the revelation of the holy sages who acquired knowledge of the Universe 7 thousand years ago.

Today Ayurveda is practiced by more than three hundred thousand Indian doctors. In this country there are many research centers and institutes whose activities are dedicated to this particular system of medicine, used by more than 80% of Indians.

Ayurveda covers surgery, therapy, pediatrics, obstetrics, toxicology, psychiatry and other branches of medicine. It is also a philosophical system designed to bring the human body and soul into harmony.

Resorts of India

Various types of recreation are represented in this country. There are sea and ski resorts. The best resorts for beach vacations are located in Kerala, Goa, Mumbai, Chennai. Ski resorts are located in the Himalayas.

Beach resorts

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The best resort state, of course, is Goa, whose coast is washed by the Arabian Sea. Around the always warm and clean sea, there are many beautiful resorts of the highest quality, hospitably welcoming guests.

People come to Goa to swim in the always warm Indian Ocean with safe waves and sunbathe on excellent sandy beaches. Many tourists are convinced that there is no better place to stay in the whole world.

North Goa was discovered to the world in the 60s by hippies, and young people still rest there in inexpensive hotels and campgrounds. And in the southern part of Goa, many expensive hotels have been built, where wealthy tourists from Europe, the USA, Russia and wealthy Indians rest.

This state is located south of Goa along the west coast and is located in the tropical zone. The tourist infrastructure in Kerala is just developing today, there are many beautiful lakes, and the highest quality beaches are located in Alleppey, Varkala, Alapuzha.

North of Goa is the state of Bombay or Mumbai. It is not only a great beach holiday, but also has many ancient and modern attractions. It is in Bombay that Bollywood is located - one of the largest film companies in the world, there are many five-star hotels, restaurants, expensive shops, etc.

On the east coast of India, near the Bay of Bengal in Tamil Nadu, you can also find excellent resorts with a developed tourist infrastructure. There are many monuments of history and culture that tell about the colonial period of the history of India, as well as wonderful beaches and hotels for every taste.

Ski resorts

The most famous resort to ski from the Himalayas is Gulmag in Kashmir. There is always a lot of snow in the resort, good terrain, comfortable slopes for skiing, many ski lifts have been built. Once upon a time, Mongol emperors lived here.

Alpine skiers from all over the world know the Auli resort with its school and a 5 km long slope. The mountain resort of Narkanda is located at an altitude of about 3,000 m and is surrounded by coniferous forests, and Solang is loved by newlyweds and families with children.

Visa

To get to India, Russians traveling there for tourist purposes need a visa. It can be obtained from the Embassy of this country in Moscow or issued independently in electronic form.

Obtaining a visa at the Embassy is quite simple: you need to submit the necessary documents, and after four days pick up the finished entry document. The only bad thing is that there are very long queues before the start of the High Season.

The prices for a visa are listed on the Embassy's website: indianembassy.ru.

First, you should collect a package of documents:

Application form completed in English (compiled on the website);

International passport;

Russian passport;

Hotel reservation;

Return ticket from India;

Financial solvency documents, etc.

Getting an e-Visa to India for 30 days is the easiest way. You can do this yourself using the Internet. All you need is a scan of your foreign passport and an application form. A visa is made in 3 days, and it costs $ 60.

An application form is drawn up on the website of the India Visa Application Center and sent to obtain a visa. If everything is done correctly, then in three days it will come to your email. You only need to print it out and have it with you when going to India.

Before going on vacation, you need, in addition to your passport and visa, to have a medical policy. As a rule, it is purchased together with the tour from a travel agency. Remember that there can be several types of policies.

It is not required to be vaccinated against exotic diseases when flying to India. there is no risk of infection with them in this country. You can get a tetanus injection and a hepatitis shot just in case.

India is a country with a fickle climate: from late May to early October, it inevitably finds itself at the mercy of tropical downpours.

As the rainy season continues, the flow of tourists to local resorts decreases, and life seems to slow down.

But in the middle of autumn, as soon as dry, sunny and hot weather sets in the country, everything revives around. The sea becomes friendly and calm, many cafes and shops open, which were closed during the rainy season. The months from October to April are the perfect time to visit the best resorts in India and see the country in all its glory.

India is an amazingly multifaceted and original country, each resort of which keeps the imprint of its ancient history and culture. It is home to renowned Ayurvedic centers and clinics, stunning beaches, impressive architectural monuments and awe-inspiring sacred sites. That is why, even having chosen one specific region for travel, you will not be able - and you will not want to - be limited to any one type of vacation.

So where are the best places to stay in India and why are they so interesting?

Goa

A lot has been written about, as well as about their main similarity - beautiful beaches, as if they came down from an advertising picture. Perhaps, it is here that the most famous and popular resorts in India by the sea are located: Majorda, Palolem, Cavelossim, Kansalium, Colva, Calangute, Vagator, Mandrem, Arambol.

Features: South Goa is traditionally positioned as a place of quieter, respectable and luxurious rest, and North - as a more "party", youth and democratic destination. There are more entertainment and conditions for a comfortable travel in the resorts of South Goa, which, however, does not mean at all that they are absent in North Goa. And the beaches are equally good in both regions of this state.

Interesting: On the territory of Goa, there is the largest Indian waterfall - Dudhsagar, and the smallest reserve - Bandla. Other attractions include ancient temples and fortresses, spice plantations and colorful local markets. There is also one amazing place in Goa where, regardless of the season, you can often hear Russian speech. It is called Morjim. There are many people from the CIS in this resort, and therefore there are Russian guest houses, restaurants and other establishments.

Suitable for: beach, sightseeing rest and tours with children.

Kerala

Goa is always heard, but there is an even more beautiful resort in India by the sea with palm trees and white beaches. This is Kerala - "one of the ten heavenly corners of the world" (according to National Geographic) and "the personal country of God" (according to the Indians themselves). The list of the main resorts of the state is as follows: Trivandrum, Varkala, Kovalam.

Features: All names given to Kerala reflect the heavenly beauty of these wonderful places: nature reserves and parks, beaches, mountains and cliffs, lagoons and lakes. The state is considered the calmest and most comfortable in India and has an extremely developed tourist infrastructure. There is literally everything here: from luxury hotels to restaurants, shops and other establishments. The only not very pleasant nuance concerns the sea - in some areas it can be restless and it is not safe to swim there.

Interesting: Almost every local resort is a kind of Ayurvedic center where you can try traditional Indian practices in the treatment of various ailments. To do this, you can go, for example, to Pallakad or Kovalam.

Kerala is ruled by the Communist Party, and therefore propaganda posters and other similar paraphernalia are often found here. You should definitely visit the legendary Padmanabhaswamy temple in Trivandrum, the ancient city of Madurai, Fort Kochi, as well as visit numerous nature reserves and national parks with untouched, wild nature.

Suitable for: beach and sightseeing recreation, eco- and photo tourism, health-improving (Ayurvedic) tours, traveling with children.

Gujarat

Where else is a beach holiday in India possible besides Goa and Kerala? Of course, the state of Gujarat has the longest coastline in India (1600 km). However, it should be noted that the places for swimming here must be chosen carefully because of the not always calm sea and muddy water. The most popular beaches are Gopnat, Dwarka, Ahmedpur Mandvi, Diu, Somnat, Chorvad, Mandvi.

Features: Gujarat is the most "vegetarian" state in India. For example, it is on its territory that Palitana is located - a city in which meat dishes are completely prohibited, and it is impossible to find fish and eggs on sale. However, in general, in India, there are few places where you can see beef on the table - the cuisine of Gujarat will be no exception. Vegetarian places are on every corner, but you will have to look for a menu with meat dishes.

Interesting: Gujarat has preserved the natural habitats of the Asiatic lion, the four-horned antelope, and some other rare animals. Therefore, tourists primarily tend to visit nature reserves and national parks in the state: on Lake Nalsovar and Flamingo Island, in the parks of Runn-of-Katch and Sasan-Gir, a marine national park.

Some of the world's largest dinosaur excavations (in Balacinore and Kutch) are recognized as an exceptional local landmark. And of course, you cannot ignore the impressive ancient temples and fortresses.

Suitable for: excursion and beach recreation, photo and ecotourism, gastronomic tour.

Last Minute Hotels in India

All resorts of India - location on the map

Goa, Kerala and Gujarat are just a small fraction of where you can organize a luxurious vacation in India, where it is better to go and what to see in this amazing country. Other, slightly less popular, but no less beautiful destinations include Karnataka, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and the islands of Bangaram, Kadmat and Agatti. And if you are interested not in a beach, but in a ski tour, feel free to go to the states of Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh and Kashmir. There is a lot of snow and the slopes are excellent.