Where to relax in India. The best resorts in India by the sea: review, photos and reviews

Of all the countries of the world, most likely, it is India that is capable of turning a person's worldview, forever changing his idea of \u200b\u200blife, death, and happiness. Traveling through this large and multicolored country, you can see so much that the trip can replace the tourist with a trip around the world.

A traveler who is going to make an independent trip to the country of a thousand secrets and a million mysteries should prepare a little for the trip. Many Europeans, getting to India unprepared, experience a strong cultural shock that spoils all impressions of this country. It's all about the attitude of Indians to the material world: they do not consider it worthy of attention. Therefore, many Europeans, upon arrival in the country, are amazed at dirty streets, littered water bodies, an abundance of beggars and homeless people on the streets. The main thing here is to be able to discern all the treasures of a rich and so unlike our culture. Be able to see reflected stars in a puddle. However, the shock soon passes, and the person begins to see, think, feel in a different way. And all the treasures of Indian history and modernity will leave extremely positive impressions: the taste of masala tea, the aroma of the temple incense, the Taj Mahal shimmering in the pink haze, and the smiling street preacher ...

Despite the fact that housing and food in India is very cheap, you have to come to terms with high travel costs, as well as a visa fee of US $ 60.

Visa

The Indian Republic has made an attempt to save tourists from many countries, including Russia, from communicating with bureaucrats or smiling and avaricious workers of travel agencies and visa centers when obtaining a regular tourist visa. An entry permit, valid for no more than 30 days, can be obtained online by filling out a form on the website https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/tvoa.html.

To obtain permission, you will need to upload your photo to the site, as well as a scan of your passport in pdf format. This must be done at least 5 days before the trip, but it is better to do it earlier, since the system does not always work flawlessly. Here you can also pay the consular fee - $ 60. You can pay for the service with VISA or Master Card.

A visa can also be obtained in the usual way: at consulates, visa centers or through travel agencies. All of these methods will result in higher costs.

Road

You can fly from Moscow to the Indian capital of Delhi by Aeroflot ships, as well as by ETIHAD and TURKISH AIRLINES aircraft. The last two offer to travel with a transfer, but cheaper. The leading domestic carrier guarantees a direct and non-stop flight, but charges a little more for speed.

Direct flight (6 hours in the sky) - from 322 euros both ways, with a transfer in Abu Dhabi (ETIHAD) - from 290 euros, but the journey takes 12 hours or more (waiting at the airport - 3 hours or more).

Turkish airlines also offer inexpensive tickets, but political motives, as well as the unstable situation in Istanbul, can scare away domestic tourists from the services of this, by the way, very good airline.

Housing

Even in the capital of a fabulous country, you can find a double room in a hotel with all the amenities - from 4 euros per day. Of course, you should not expect from a European-level establishment, but for a tourist who can do without breakfast in the room and a safe, it is quite suitable.

The hotel, offering double rooms from 15 to 20 euros, provides customers with quite European comfort and amenities.

Basically, there are thousands of excellent hotels in India that do not have their own internet page, are not available in the database of hotel reservation systems, but offer good accommodation. Many experienced tourists do not reserve rooms in advance and go at random, which allows them to save even more. But for those who are traveling to India for the first time, it is better to book accommodation in advance.

Apartments in Delhi or Mumbai can be found for 15-17 euros / day. Living with an Indian family can be an unforgettable cultural experience. This service costs from 16 euros per day, including breakfast. In addition to all the usual amenities, this type of accommodation will provide you with kind advisers and even guides to the most interesting places in the cities of India.

Food

Indian cuisine is rice, vegetables, dairy products, nuts and honey. Not everyone eats meat in the country, but in many restaurants you can see dishes from lamb, goat meat, poultry (chicken, goose, duck, turkey) on the menu. The abundance of fruits is simply magnificent, fresh juices are available everywhere.

And now about the main thing: the amount of spices in Indian dishes is simply unimaginable for a European person. When ordering any dish, except for dessert and water, you need to add magic words: "But spicy, pliz!" (no spices, please). This does not mean at all that the served dish will be bland, not at all. Simply in this case, they will bring you food that you can eat and admire with a completely unique flavoring bouquet.

Everything in India is delicious. Many Europeans are discovering vegetarianism, overwhelmed by the abundance of delicious dishes made from fruits, nuts, vegetables and dairy products. Oriental sweets and spices unique in their "ensemble" of aromas are so different from the familiar and familiar that the culinary adventure will turn out to be almost as bright as acquaintance with the ancient culture.

If you eat in cafes, snack bars and small restaurants for local residents, then you won't have to spend more than 5-6 euros per person per day.

Choosing places for tourists, add 3-4 euros to the indicated amount, and if you want to indulge in local whiskey or rum for dinner, then add a couple more euros to the amount. As a result, we get that, even without denying ourselves anything, you won't have to spend more than 10-12 euros per day on food.

What to try?

It will take several dozen pages of text to list all the famous Indian dishes, but you can single out the "magnificent ten" dishes that you just need to try:

• Dal is a lentil stew, richly flavored with spices. The basis of the diet of more than half of a huge country. The most inexpensive and affordable dish. Of the main advantages: satisfying, healthy and inexpensive;
• Palak-Panir - the most delicate cheese in a spinach sauce, there are many varieties of this dish, invariably only one thing - excellent taste;
• Sabji is an unusually common vegetable stew with rice and flatbread. Vegetarian masterpiece;
• Tandoori Chicken - marinated chicken baked in a special oven. The dish is spicy, but bland rice and flat cakes “level out” the situation. Delicious!
• Chapati is the most common type of bread. It looks like a flatbread that reveals all its flavor characteristics along with any sauce;
• Thali - it's hard to call it a dish. By ordering Thali, you get a plate with tortillas, rice, vegetables, sauces - a great lunch;
• Gajar Ka - halva made from ordinary carrots and almonds, a favorite delicacy in the north of the country;
• Samosa - fried pies with vegetable or curd filling;
• Raita - cold vegetable soup, prepared on the basis of yogurt - exotic okroshka is especially good in the heat, especially in summer.

While traveling in India, you can eat in European restaurants, where the dishes will be familiar. But fish delicacies are best ordered if the restaurant is located by the sea. In this case, the freshness of the fish products is guaranteed. Experienced travelers advise against eating fish in India from May to August when the weather is very hot.

Main attractions

Agree that in a country where there are about hundreds of thousands of ancient temples, palaces, monuments, sanctuaries, it is difficult to determine what should be visited first of all. Travel guides offer a variety of sites and routes to suit all tastes, but they all include a few sites that simply cannot be missed:

• Delhi - you can spend two days in the capital, or you can study it for several weeks. You must definitely visit Lal Qila or the red fort - the citadel-palace, the imperial residence of the rulers, the main historical building of the city (entrance - 2 euros, evening light and sound show - additional 0.67 euros); Kubt Minar is an old mosque, from which only a minaret remains. The main object is a mysterious iron column, which has not corroded at all for 1500 years (entrance - 3.30 euros); Lakshmi-Narayan - a modern Hindu temple, opened in the middle of the twentieth century;
• Agra (2 hours from the capital by train, ticket - 9.40 euros one way) - the main thing here is the tomb of the Shah's wife Jihan (Taj Mahal). Entrance fee - 10 euros;
• Ajanta is a cave temple complex, a place to search for a way of liberation from suffering: ancient paintings, Buddha statues, huge halls and narrow cells (entrance - 3.30 euros, from Mumbai to Aurangabad by train, 4.5 hours, 3.50 euros one way; then by bus - 0.20 euros, 20 minutes);
• Mumbai is a city of museums and markets, a vibrant and eventful nightlife, one of the most modern cities in the country, Indian Hollywood, there are many interesting things, but the real India is hard to see here;
• Varanasi is a city of the dead, a place of funeral pyres, cleansing from all sins and mourning ceremonies. The sight is quite specific, like the aromas prevailing in the city. But one cannot recognize India without visiting Varanasi. From Delhi by train 11 hours, ticket - from 4 euros one way;
• Kolkata - it is just a pleasure to walk along the central streets of the old city, look into the temple of the goddess Kali, visit the Kumar Tuli quarter of artisans, buy a small statuette of one of the many gods here, relax in the Maidan Park. The city has a reputation as the cultural capital of India, although it makes a depressing impression on many Europeans, but after several days of living, the huge areas of the slums no longer seem so scary, and numerous museums and exhibition halls will help fill the time of stay with vivid emotions and pleasant memories.

The list is far from complete. In all major cities of India, you can find an experienced and knowledgeable guide from local residents who, for a symbolic fee of 3-5 euros, will show their hometown from the most unexpected side, help to bypass the queues at museums and palaces, and provide a comfortable place in the temple during the service.

Important!

Traveling to the country of magnificent temples and palaces, one must not forget that there are some peculiarities of hygiene and behavior in India. Take some simple but useful items with you:

• Wet disinfectant wipes;
• Activated carbon and anti-acid (like Gastal);
• Hydrogen peroxide tablets;
• Patch.

Do not drink tap water or water pots. Only in store-bought bottles.

Unforgettable impressions!

India is a mysterious country, which is still dominated by religious and cultural traditions that appeared many centuries ago. To visit the resorts of India means to get into the world of unique adventures, to feel the spirit of ancient wisdom, to find yourself in another reality in which human abilities have no limits, and absolutely everything is possible. In this place, Hindu sects and ancient Buddhist monasteries have survived, in which mysterious, mysterious rituals are practiced. There are opportunities for both a beach holiday and skiing.

Ski resorts in India: Auli

The expanses and views that open up in this marvelous place are simply breathtaking. In summer, the slopes of Auli are covered with grass and wild flowers, but as soon as it starts to snow, the picture changes completely. The main snow slope of Auli stretches for 5 kilometers, there are five hundred meter ski lifts and eight hundred meter chairlifts on it. At this location, snow compactors and snow machines are used to maintain the condition of the cover. The Auli resort is so luxurious that Austrian experts have compared it to the best slopes in Switzerland. In this place, it is possible to organize a two-week or one-week training course for everyone who is just starting to ride.

Gulmarg

This tourist village is located in the state of Kashmir. Looking at the best resorts in India, we can say that the place in this region for skiing is considered ideal. This is due to its weather conditions - an abundance of snow and a suitable relief.

The complete absence of tracks and 2000 m of vertical elevation difference is a real dream for all freeride and backcountry lovers!

Due to the remoteness and lack of popularity of skiing among the local population, the resort pleases with untouched virgin lands and free slopes for several days after a snowfall.

Solang

When evaluating the best resorts in India, Solang can be singled out separately. This is one of the most picturesque ski villages in the country. Solang offers slopes at various levels, from beginner runs to extreme trails.

Solang is a traditional Indian style resort. Two full-fledged blue slopes and 2 ski lifts, one of which is governmental, therefore, tourists are prohibited from using it. But if you pay the operator of the second one, he may launch it for you at an inopportune time. In this area, the shortcomings are compensated by the literacy of local workers - all the coaches were trained on the best slopes in Switzerland.

This resort has many local families and couples on their honeymoon. There are several cafes and snack bars outside the resort.

Ayurvedic resorts in India

Kerala (the southern state of India) is the birthplace of Ayurveda. The largest concentration of Ayurvedic spas and clinics is located here. Kerala Resort (India) offers opportunities for relaxation for every budget and taste - from inexpensive treatment in public hospitals to a wellness course in prestigious Ayurvedic clinics.

The climate of this Indian state is ideal for medical treatment, while an uninterrupted supply of raw materials was established several centuries ago. Today rent of floating villas is becoming more and more popular here. Traveling in this way through the swamps of Kerala, the client receives treatment combined with the pleasure of contemplating the picturesque views around.

In addition, several Ayurvedic clinics and clinics are located in the states of Karnataka and Goa. In addition to specialized clinics, such services are provided by each 5 * hotel and a beauty salon.

Goa

Goa is located in the southeast of the country. This small piece of land consists almost entirely of beaches that have not been spoiled by civilization. 40 of them stretch for almost 100 km along the coast of the Arabian Sea. Although not everyone is equipped for swimming.

Goa is divided into 2 parts - South and North. Moreover, the state has the most popular resorts in India. The border is Fort Aguada. The beaches of the southern part are clean, sandy, designed for wealthy vacationers. The sea is calm and warm here. But in the north, poor tourists stay - hippies, students, musicians. These beach resorts in India have a lot of shops, noisy bazaars, eateries, and round-the-clock discos are held here.

North Goa

This is the most suitable area of \u200b\u200bthe country for tourists who choose outdoor activities when they come to a country like India. Goa resorts offer their guests constant parties and non-stop entertainment that take place around the clock. In hotel rooms, unpretentious living conditions are compensated by their low cost. Renting housing in the private sector is also popular among tourists.

"Tiracol"

Above the sandy beach rises a majestic structure called Fort Tiracol, today the Heritage Hotel. This is the northernmost beach in the region and the most untouched by civilization, wild.

"Arambol"

Also the beach "Arambol" is called "Harmal". Here the sand is white and soft, with a freshwater pond and cottages on the lateral red soil among the stones. The road leading to the beach is surrounded by Aboriginal huts selling clothes and souvenirs to tourists. The beach is limited by the river. Tiracol.

Vagator

Tour operators have mastered Vagator for a long time, so it is quite difficult for "wild" tourists to find a place in a hotel for themselves. In addition, the resort is experiencing quite serious difficulties with water supply, although this is generally different in India. Goa resorts have many shops with clean bottled water. In no case should you drink liquid from the tap.

The steep slope of the hill descending to the Vagator beach adorns the Chapora Fort. It was built by the Portuguese in 1617 on the ruins of an ancient Islamic structure. This place offers an amazing view of the surroundings. The place where the river flows into the sea is impressive. Juari. This part of the beach has high cliffs that are popular with honeymooners who want to take memorable photos, as well as those who are looking for solitude.

Anjuna

The beach is located 8 kilometers from Mapusa. The city in the 10-12th centuries. was an Arab commercial port, for which it received the name "Chamber of Commerce". At the moment, a flea market is organized here every Wednesday, the richest and most famous in the entire state. In this place you can find everything your heart desires - from various products of Tibetan weavers to porcelain cups from the period of British colonization.

If you want to know which resorts in India are the most popular with tourists, then it is worth considering that this is the most photographed beach in the state. Therefore, you cannot find solitude here. Lovers of exotic things come here from everywhere. In addition, during the full moon night raves take place in this place, which means you need to beware of drug dealers and petty thieves.

Baga

This place has a small picturesque beach with a small number of hotels. It is difficult to pinpoint exactly where Calangute begins and Baga ends. The territory here is clean, the sand is brown, there are many local residents - fishermen and hawkers. The main plus is the Baga river, in which children swim with pleasure. At the point where the river flows into the sea, there are beautiful black stones, the water constantly boils around them. Not so long ago, an evening (Saturday) market began to be held here. He is quite good, walking to the market in Anjuna is far from him.

Calangute

Calangute has been a major gathering place for hippies in the past. At the present moment, the seven-kilometer crescent of the beach is chosen by organized tourists. The quality of rest is affected by a huge number of beachgoers. This is not good for those looking for privacy, although the infrastructure is well developed here. In this place you can always find where to sleep and eat. Some of the nightclubs are open until the morning.

South Goa

This is a calm and quiet vacation in hotels, which is suitable for people who want to escape from winter for a week without being disturbed. It's hard to find entertainment in South Goa. Of the beaches, only Palolem (the southernmost one) deserves attention - this is actually a lovely place.

Dona Paula

At the place where two famous Indian rivers flow into the Arabian Sea, the Dona Paula Bay is located with stunning views of Mormugao. It is a cozy nest hidden on the southern side of the plateau that divides the rivers. To the west of the beach is the official residence of the state governor. Not far from it are the remains of a small British military cemetery.

This beach is a paradise for lovers. It got its name in honor of the daughter of the vice-governor Dona Paula de Menezes. Legend has it that she threw herself off a cliff after being separated from the fisherman she fell in love with. And to this day, her rebellious spirit wanders the neighborhood. Locals say that sometimes, on moonlit nights, they see her swinging on the waves of the sea in a pearl necklace.

"Vainiginim"

This beach is located in Kurlavangni Bay. The name comes from the word "wingon". The locals called rice in this way, sowing fields with it. Here in the 16th century the Jesuits lived, who turned the coast of the bay into a piece of paradise, planting it with exotic plants brought from everywhere. Today tourists have the opportunity to admire the remains of that luxury.

Majorda

This is a strip of beaches that united coastal areas near villages from Mobor to Velsao (Arossim, Velsao, Majorda, Utorda, Colva, Betalbatim, Varga, Benaulim, Betul, Kavellosim, Mobor). The sands here are not the whitest. Groves of fruit trees and palms descend to the sea everywhere; at low tide, among the sand, you can see various sea inhabitants: sea urchins and stars, crabs, trepangs, snakes and so on.

Colva

Colva is the main tourist center of the southern part of the state, although there are noticeably fewer tourists in this place than in Calangute. This part of the coast is a little less developed, therefore, the resort is avoided by people who are afraid to face various difficulties. At the same time, the lack of visitors is more than made up for by the locals, attracted by the many hotels and excellent restaurants. All these bright and numerous buildings slightly spoil the splendor of the beach. But lovers of solitude on foot along the coast can reach the secluded corners of the resort.

Benaulim

There are even fewer tourists here than in Kolva. At the same time, there is more than enough local flavor. People go to Benaulim who prefer noisy bars to cozy little cafes, and the scorching sun to cozy shady country roads. Locals come to the beach in the evening and on weekends.

The wave height here in September reaches half a meter. Dolphin groups are frequent visitors to local waters, swimming almost to the very coast. Benaulim Village is famous for its rosewood products and furnishings, which are sold everywhere.

Mobor

Sandy long spit, which formed at the confluence of the river. Sal to the lagoon, surrounded on 3 sides by water. A huge number of charming islets, white lilies, sand dunes - all this makes Mobor unlike other resorts in India. The luxurious white sands are municipal property, so there is no need to pay attention to the advertisements of the hotels that a certain part of the coast is exclusively for their guests.

Palolem

Palolem did not enter the sphere of interests of travel agencies until recently. Because of this, the atmosphere of naturalness and tranquility is still preserved here, which not all resorts in India can boast of. There is a blue sea, white sands, green palms. The seascape is diversified by several wooded tiny islets. You can swim to them by paying the fishermen. There are still few stalls with souvenirs. In addition, there is a fresh water spring in the northern part of the beach. The most popular activities here are trips to the dolphin gathering and fishing.

There are exchange offices here, but there are no banks. The nearest railway station is 3 kilometers away, taxis and buses run all the time between settlements and the beach.

The resorts of India are scattered literally throughout the country, especially on the coasts.

In the southwest of India, Kerala is located - the capital of spices and coconut trees, a land of rice, tea and coffee plantations. Since ancient times, this land has attracted travelers and traders from all over the world not only for rare goods, but also for the picturesque nature and hospitality of local residents.

Delhi, the capital of India and the administrative center of the union territory of Delhi, is located in the northern part of the country, on the high right bank of the Jamna River at the foot of the hilly ridge of Aravali. Delhi has several internationally renowned luxury hotels, the sophisticated style and comfort of which will ensure the traveler has a good stay.

The western gateway of India is called the capital of the state of Maharashtra - Bombay. This chain of seven islands is the most important commercial, industrial and financial center, as well as the largest port in India. Traditionally, Bombay is considered the center of the Indian film industry.

Goa is the pearl of the Indian coast, the world famous resort. It is located on the shores of the Indian Ocean, about 400 kilometers south of Bombay. Goa is famous for its endless sandy beaches, transparent ocean and cloudless sky, attracting the Indian and world elite.

A schematic map of India presents you all the most amazing cities and resorts of this mysterious and attractive country, which will not leave indifferent any connoisseur of beauty!

Varanasi, located on the banks of the Ganges, is a sacred city for Hindus. Its old name "Kashi" is translated as "city of light". Presumably, this is one of the oldest cities in the world. It stands on an ancient trade route; Hindus believe that this is one of the few holy places - a kind of gateway to another world. It is believed that if a person dies in Varanasi, his soul will no longer be reincarnated, he will free himself from earthly captivity and leave the wheel of Samsara. The twisted and tangled streets of Varanasi seem to be saturated with prayers, a powerful and all-consuming religious life has become the center and meaning of the city.

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 best 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 possible in India 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 largest dinosaur excavations in the world (at 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.

It usually happens like this: having visited India for the first time, either they fall in love with it for life, or they do not accept it at all.

It usually happens like this: having visited India for the first time, either they fall in love with it for life, or they do not accept it at all. The invaluable UNESCO heritage, the incomparable Taj Mahal and Hawa Mahal - and right there, behind the fence, endless garbage dumps. Beach parties in lively Goa, the brilliance of Bollywood - and the usual poverty outside the tourist areas. India is an ambivalent country, and that's putting it mildly.

And yet she is beautiful. Its majestic Himalayas make one believe in the existence of parallel worlds, the amazing beauty of the nature of Kerala strikes at the very heart, and the mystical mystery of religious rites at the sacred Ganges plunges into a trance. India is stunning with anthill cities, where everything mixes in an insane cocktail: people, religions, languages, customs and smells.

When to go

Old Delhi and the capital of New Delhi are thousands of monuments from different eras: mosques, Hindu temples, mausoleums, colonial-style villas. In huge shopping centers you can “shop” from the heart, in restaurants with exquisite cuisine - to appreciate the skill of the chefs.

Jaipur has some incredible Mughal palaces built of pink sandstone. In Agra and the surrounding area, in addition to the famous Taj Mahal, it is interesting to see the 16th century Red Fort with features of Islamic and Hindu architecture and Fatehpur Sikri - the ancient capital of the Akbar I the Great empire.

One of the most powerful tourist magnets is Mumbai with its famous Dharavi slums, Bollywood dream factory and Kanheri Buddhist cave monastery. To visit Bombay is to discover India in all its diversity.

In the Himalayas, you can see fantastic snowy peaks stretching into space, millennial temples with monasteries and people still living in past centuries. The most popular destination in mountainous India is the borderline Sikkim, surrounded by national parks. It is a great place for cycling, trekking and rafting.

Where to be enlightened and healed

Hinduism is extremely popular outside of India. Foreigners believe that if they can comprehend the wisdom of this religion, they will reveal the secrets of being, or at least find peace of mind. To tidy up their health, people go to Ayurvedic resorts in Kerala and Karnataka. There is ayuverda "light", when liberties in food and even entertainment are allowed, but there is a "hard" option - strict adherence to the doctor's prescriptions, a rigid schedule, almost a drill. But they say it's worth it.

For the quintessence of Hinduism, head to the banks of the Ganges in Varanasi. The less impressionable can walk to the embankment and watch the funeral fires burn and the deceased are seen off on their last journey. The rest should be limited to a tour of the temples, which are countless here.