India is a country with a variable climate: from the end of May to the beginning of October, it inevitably finds itself at the mercy of tropical downpours.
As the rainy season continues, the flow of tourists to local resorts dwindles and life seems to slow down.
But in mid-autumn, as soon as dry, sunny and hot weather sets in across the country, everything around becomes lively. The sea becomes friendly and calm, many cafes and shops that were closed during the rainy season open. The months from October to April are the best time to visit best resorts India and see the country in all its splendor.
India is an amazingly multifaceted and original country, each resort of which bears its imprint. ancient history and culture. Here are famous Ayurvedic centers and clinics, amazingly beautiful beaches, impressive architectural monuments and awe-inspiring sacred places. That’s why, even if you choose one specific region for travel, you won’t be able to—and won’t want to—limit yourself to just one type of vacation.
So where are best places for holidays in India and why are they so interesting?
Goa
A lot has been written about them, as well as about their main similarity – beautiful beaches, as if straight out of an advertising picture. Perhaps this is where the most famous and popular resorts India by the sea: Majorda, Palolem, Cavelossim, Cansalium, Colva, Calangute, Vagator, Mandrem, Arambol.
Peculiarities: South Goa is traditionally positioned as a place of calmer, respectable and luxurious holidays, while North Goa is traditionally positioned as a more “party”, youth and democratic destination. There are more entertainment and conditions for a comfortable trip in the resorts of South Goa, which, however, does not mean 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 worth seeing are ancient temples and fortresses, spice plantations and colorful local markets. There is one in Goa amazing place, where, regardless of the time of year, you can often hear Russian speech. It's 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, excursion holiday and tours with children.
Kerala
Goa is always popular, but there is an even more beautiful Indian resort by the sea with palm trees and snow-white beaches. This is Kerala - “one of the ten paradises of the world” (according to National Geographic) and “God’s personal country” (according to the Indians themselves). The list of main resorts in the state is as follows: Trivandrum, Varkala, Kovalam.
Peculiarities: All the 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 most tranquil and comfortable in India and has an extremely developed tourism 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 turbulent and it is unsafe 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. Definitely worth a visit legendary temple Padmanabhaswamy in Trivandrum, ancient city Madurai, Fort Kochi, and also visit numerous nature reserves and national parks with untouched, wild nature.
Suitable for: beach and sightseeing holidays, eco-tourism and photo tourism, medical and health (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 is worth mentioning that places for swimming here need to be chosen carefully because it is not always calm sea and muddy water. Some of the most popular beaches include Gopnath, Dwarka, Ahmedpur Mandvi, Diu, Somnath, Chorwad, Mandvi.
Peculiarities: 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 for sale. However, in general in India there are few places where you can see beef on the table - the cuisine of Gujarat will not be an exception. There are vegetarian establishments on every corner here, but you will have to look for a menu with meat dishes.
Interesting: Gujarat has preserved the natural habitats of the Asiatic lion, four-horned antelope and some other rare animals. Therefore, tourists first of all strive to visit nature reserves and national parks in the state: Lake Nalsowar and Flamingo Island, the Rann of Kutch and Sasan Gir parks, and the marine national park.
One of the world's largest dinosaur excavations (in Balasinore and Kutch) is recognized as an exceptional local attraction. And of course, you cannot ignore the impressive ancient temples and fortresses.
Suitable for: excursion and beach holidays, photo and ecotourism, gastronomic tour.
Last minute tours to India
All resorts in India - location on the map
Goa, Kerala and Gujarat are just a small part of where you can organize a luxury holiday 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, as well as the islands of Bangaram, Kadmat and Agatti. And if you are interested not in beach, but ski tour, feel free to travel to the states of Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh and Kashmir. There is a lot of snow here, and the ski slopes are excellent.
It usually happens like this: having visited India for the first time, you either fall in love with it for life or are not accepted at all.
It usually happens like this: having visited India for the first time, you either fall in love with it for life or are not accepted at all. An invaluable UNESCO heritage, the incomparable Taj Mahal and Hawa Mahal - and right there, behind the fence, endless garbage dumps. Beach parties in cheerful Goa, the brilliant shine of Bollywood - and the usual poverty outside the tourist areas. India is an ambivalent country, to say the least.
And yet she is beautiful. Its majestic Himalayas make you believe in the existence of parallel worlds, the amazing beauty of the nature of the state of Kerala strikes you in the heart, and the mystical mystery of religious rites near the sacred Ganges plunges you into a trance. India is stunning with anthill cities, where everything mixes in a crazy cocktail: people, religions, languages, customs and smells.
When to go
Old Delhi and the capital New Delhi are thousands of monuments from different eras: mosques, Hindu temples, mausoleums, colonial-style villas. In huge shopping centers You can “shop” to your heart’s content, and in restaurants with gourmet cuisine you can appreciate the skill of the chefs.
Jaipur has absolutely incredible Mughal-era palaces built from pink sandstone. In Agra and the surrounding area, in addition to the famous Taj Mahal, it is interesting to look at the Red Fort of the 16th century with features of Islamic and Hindu architecture and Fatehpur Sikri - the ancient capital of the empire of Akbar I the Great.
One of the most powerful tourist magnets is Mumbai with its famous Dharavi slums, the Bollywood dream factory and the Buddhist cave monastery of Kanheri. To visit Bombay is to discover India in all its diversity.
In the Himalayas you can see fantastic snowy peaks stretching into space, thousand-year-old temples with monasteries and people still living in past centuries. The most popular destination mountainous India - border Sikkim, surrounded national parks. This perfect place for cycling, trekking and rafting.
Where to enlighten and heal
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 existence or at least find peace of mind. To improve their health, people go to Ayurvedic resorts in Kerala and Karnataka. There is “light” Ayurveda, when liberties in food and even entertainment are allowed, and there is a “hard” option - strict adherence to the doctor’s instructions, a strict routine, almost 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 stroll to the embankment and watch the funeral pyres burn and the deceased be seen off on their last journey. For the rest, it’s better to limit yourself to a tour of the temples, which are countless here.
All this is becoming a reality for tourists coming to Indian Ocean resorts.
The Indian Ocean Islands are an all-season luxury holiday destination. All you have to do is decide what you like best: relaxation and contemplation, active sports, the opportunity to touch antiquities or watch the most unusual creatures on Earth.
Mauritius
Tropical Mauritius was once a favorite haven of pirates, and now the island attracts thousands of tourists every year with its luxury hotels and white beaches surrounded by volcanic mountains. This place is suitable not only for heat-loving couch potatoes, but also for curious travelers who want to get acquainted with the amazing colonial architecture of the region, Indian temples and botanical gardens. Here you can also spot rare birds, walk through the park with lions or swim with dolphins, or even test your strength by doing extreme species Sports - wind and kite surfing are very popular on the island.
Mauritius is located just 20 degrees south of the equator, so the temperature here does not drop below +25 ° C. Most tourists go here on vacation when the cold weather sets in in the Northern Hemisphere, so the peak tourist season on the island is considered to be from October to April. However, at this time of year it is quite hot and humid and sometimes rainy. The best time to holiday in Mauritius is the local winter, which begins in the Southern Hemisphere in May.
Mauritius is very small, only 45x65 square meters. km, however, due to the unique landscape, the weather here is very changeable. You are unlikely to be able to quickly get around this small island, and all because it is riddled with narrow and winding roads on which it is simply impossible to accelerate. In addition, when planning excursions, it is worth remembering that left-hand traffic has remained on the island since the British colonial era. Therefore, it is better for tourists to use taxi services or organized transfers.
The tourist center of Mauritius is the resort town of Grand Bay in the northeast of the island, where most hotels and entertainment venues are concentrated. The West Coast is the most expensive and prestigious: those who come here are accustomed to relaxing in the most luxurious hotels and want to sunbathe on the most beautiful beaches with white sand. The south is considered the greenest, wildest and most interesting part of the island.
Where to stay
The pearl of Mauritius is Paradis & Golf Club on the Le Morne Peninsula. This hotel is considered one of the best in the south west coast. It is especially memorable for guests due to the breathtaking views from the rooms of the picturesque beach and lagoon.
Paradis Resort is suitable for both amateurs have a relaxing holiday(here they have several restaurants, a spa center of a famous cosmetic brand, the largest fitness center in Mauritius, their own international golf course and golf academy), and for those who prefer leisure and enjoys water sports. On the beach, hotel guests can use any equipment for free, including snorkel masks and windsurfing equipment. A separate fee will be asked only for the services of a personal instructor. By the way, this hotel hosts the Kite Jam Festival, which every year brings together professionals and amateurs of wind and kitesurfing from all over the world. The festival includes amateur competitions, master classes from world champions and the best athletes on the planet, as well as surfing and kiteboarding schools.
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Time zone: there is no time difference between Mauritius and Moscow. So it doesn’t matter how long your vacation is - you won’t remember what jet lag is after returning home. |
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Visa: Visa for up to 60 days is issued upon arrival. To do this, at customs you must provide a passport valid for at least 6 months after the end of your stay in the country, a return ticket, a hotel reservation, a completed entry form and pay a fee of $17. |
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How to get there: the best option is to fly by airline Air France to Paris with a transfer to an Air Mauritius flight. Travel time including connections is about 16 hours. The price of a round-trip ticket is from 49 thousand rubles. |
Madagascar
Madagascar - largest island Indian Ocean, one of the poorest countries in the world, but at the same time one of the most safe countries Africa. Such nature as in Madagascar cannot be found anywhere else. The flora and fauna of the island are rich in absolutely endemic plants and animals that cannot be found in other parts of the planet.
Baobab trees grow everywhere in Madagascar. In some areas, impressive rows of giant trees line up, in the crowns of which the African sun pancake beautifully “gets stuck” during sunset, giving tourists the opportunity to take photographs of amazing beauty.
Here you can see 70 species of lemurs and chameleons and even watch humpback whales. The best time to see whale migration is from June to September, but in the waters east coast they appear all year round.
There is also a unique stone forest on the island, covering an area of more than 150 thousand hectares and consisting of sharp karst spiers, the approximate age of which is a million years. Stone Forest consists of intricate labyrinths through which excursions are organized for tourists.
As a rule, travelers go to Madagascar to see the jungle, wild animals, take part in safari or walk along adapted and safe tourist routes, which are complemented by several days of relaxation on the coast. The most popular recreation areas for foreign tourists are the resorts of the Anakao Peninsula and the beaches of the tiny island near Madagascar - Nosy Be.
The north of the country is very fond of divers all over the world, including those from Russia. The long coastline with unique underwater plants and animals gives them a completely new diving experience.
The climate of Madagascar is very diverse: on the coast it is tropical, in the interior it is closer to subtropical, and in the south it is dry (arid), with high air temperatures experiencing large daily fluctuations and with negligible amounts of precipitation. The island has two seasons. The hot and humid season - the Madagascar summer - lasts from November to April, the air temperature in these months is +25 + 27 ° C, the cooler dry season is established from May to October (+20 + 24 ° C).
Where to stay
One of the best hotels in the popular resort island of Nosy Be - Ravintsara Wellness Hotel. “Fantastic vacation”, “royal vacation”, “heaven on earth” - these are the reviews from tourists that Ravintsara received for its beautiful and spacious bungalows on the beach, green gardens around, excellent service and exquisite cuisine. The hotel also offers entertainment for every taste: boat trips, ATV rides. The cost of accommodation is from 300 dollars per day.
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Time zone: Madagascar time is one hour behind Moscow. |
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Visa: a tourist visa for up to 90 days can be issued upon arrival. To do this, you must provide a passport valid for at least 6 months and a return air ticket. |
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How to get there: get to largest airport Madagascar Antananarivo from Moscow can be reached via Paris (Air France). Flight time is 14 hours excluding connections. Ticket price - from 50 thousand rubles. |
The Seychelles is an archipelago of magical beauty, 115 islands, many of which are uninhabited, scattered in the waters of the Indian Ocean off the coast of East Africa. Breathtaking secluded beaches, unique nature and climate have made the islands perhaps the most idyllic tourist destination in the world.
The Seychelles is one of the few resort areas where you can simply pick up and fly at any time of the year, without worrying about seasonal weather changes. The climate here is quite stable throughout the year, average temperature air on the islands is +26+30º C. During the peak season (December-January), precipitation on the islands becomes more frequent, which subsides only by mid-March, but it cannot be called abundant and, in fact, it does not interfere with tourists’ recreation.
The warmest and calmest weather occurs in April-May and October-November. During this period, the islands have ideal conditions for swimming, snorkeling and diving: the water temperature reaches +29º C, and visibility often exceeds 30 meters.
Period from October to April - best time for fishing enthusiasts, and from April to October is the season for watching exotic birds. It is during these months that they reproduce, nurse their offspring and migrate to other regions. From May to September, fans of surfing and windsurfing flock to the Seychelles.
The main island of the archipelago, on which the international airport is located, is about. Mahe. Those who fly to the Seychelles in search of peace and secluded relaxation are unlikely to appreciate the bustle of Mahe, but it’s worth staying here if only to study the colonial architecture of the capital of the Seychelles - the city of Victoria, or to visit Botanical Garden, which contains dozens of species of tropical plants. The surrounding area of Mahe Island has great opportunities for deep-sea diving: here you can not only swim with magnificent tropical fish, but also walk through the habitats of reef and nose sharks, stingrays, sea urchins, sea turtles.
Each island of the archipelago has its own atmosphere, and if you don’t want the noise of Mahe at all, then you can go to the small islands, where complete peace and quiet reigns.
Where to stay
One of best hotels Mahe - Banyan Tree Seychelles, located on the picturesque southwestern coast of the island. Banyan Tree has 60 villas, each with its own swimming pool.
This resort is located in a quiet location, away from anything that might disturb you during your holiday. This sometimes makes guests think that they are on a desert island, where someone invisible provides round-the-clock comfort. There are no entertainment venues or significant places nearby tourist places, so it is chosen by those who are going to enjoy a vacation away from civilization. The cost of renting a villa is from $1,200 per day.
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Time zone: in the Seychelles, the time coincides with Moscow. |
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Visa: Russian citizens arriving in the Seychelles for a period not exceeding 30 days do not require a visa. It is placed at the border when entering the country. |
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How to get there: you can fly from Moscow to the Seychelles on Emirates airlines with a transfer at your home airport (Dubai). Travel time including connections is 12.5 hours. Ticket price - from 30 thousand rubles. |
Maldives
The Maldives is made up of about 20 groups of atolls, but only half of the islands that make up them are open to tourists. If you are planning to visit Republic of Maldives first time and are looking for some general recommendations on choosing a resort, then you need to remember the main thing: each of the Maldivian resorts is located on its own island, the sizes of the islands vary from 2.5 km to 150 m (from coast to coast). This means that all resort facilities (restaurants, bars, sports facilities, etc.) will be the only entertainment during your stay in the Maldives. Therefore, their infrastructure needs to be carefully studied in advance, so as not to fall into deep despondency on your long-awaited vacation. In general, there are offers for tourists for every taste: from affordable bungalows adjacent to diving equipment rental points, to secluded luxury villas on stilts in the sea, from the terrace of which you can hang your feet and admire the colorful fish swimming in the water.
The Maldives archipelago is located almost on the equator, the climate here is tropical, the temperature is stable all year round (about +28+30º C). The hottest season on the islands occurs in our winter: from December to April the islands are dry, and the air temperature reaches its highest levels.
Most of the activities in the Maldives are centered around water activities. Snorkeling and diving are very popular - vacationers have the opportunity to see the most beautiful coral reefs and get acquainted with 700 species of exotic fish that live in Indian Ocean. Surfers (both advanced and beginners) also enjoy coming here to spend an invigorating holiday cutting through the waves on a board. Those who like a more relaxing holiday may be interested in fishing in open water.
Where to stay
One of the most famous Maldivian resorts, Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort & Spa, is located on the large and very picturesque Addu Atoll, on Villingili Island. Shangri-La offers accommodation in fully equipped traditional style villas. Guests can choose a house in the garden, on the shore or on stilts directly over the water. Several restaurants are available to guests, open pool, gym, children's club, beauty salon and spa center, where they offer various face and body care programs, scrubs, wraps, as well as massage and stone therapy. The territory has tennis and badminton courts, a small golf course, as well as everything you need for snorkeling, diving, windsurfing and fishing.
To the resort from international airport Tourists are transported to Male by plane or speedboat.
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Time zone: time on Maldives ahead of Moscow by an hour. |
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Visa: Russian citizens do not need to apply for a visa in advance if the tourist flies into the country for a period of no more than 30 days. It is placed at the border upon entry into the country, for which you will need a valid passport and a dated return ticket. |
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How to get there: International flights arrive at Hulhule Airport, which is located next to the capital island of Male. Flights to the Maldives are regularly carried out by Emirates airlines (via Dubai), Singapore Airlines(via Singapore), Qatar (via Doha). Travel time depends on the length of the connection at the carrier's home airport. In the winter season, Aeroflot opens a direct flight to Male. Travel time is about 9 hours. The cost of the flight is from 49 thousand rubles. |
O. Ceylon
The island of Ceylon (Sri Lanka) is a real corner of eternal celebration. The number of significant events celebrated here is more than 160 per year! Add to this colorful beaches, misty mountains, tea plantations and luxury hotels - and you get truly unforgettable vacation in the kingdom of nature on the shores of the Indian Ocean.
The developed tourism infrastructure in Sri Lanka provides vacationers with great opportunities for relaxation for every taste: from “doing nothing” on the beaches and self-care in local spas to observing wildlife, practicing extreme sports and pilgrimages to ancient cities.
The climate in Sri Lanka is equatorial. It is warm and humid all year round, with the rainy season occurring in summer. The average annual air temperature on the island is +28º C, the water temperature in the Indian Ocean reaches +26º C.
The largest city island state- noisy, crazy Columbo. Tourists come here to get acquainted with the main attractions: admire the colonial buildings, mosques, churches, Buddhist and Hindu temples, see the presidential residence (or the Queen's House), visit National Museum and an art gallery. There is also a wonderful zoo in Colombo, where tourists try to go to the elephant show.
The beaches of the island are very popular among tourists. Moreover, Sri Lanka is gaining more and more popularity among those who love active sports. water sports. Surfers managed to fall in love with Arugam Bay, a place 314 km from Colombo, on the southeastern coast of Ceylon, which was included in the honorary list of the ten best surf beaches in the world. Arugam Bay is popular among beginners, and for experienced athletes, the point of attraction has become the west coast, where you can catch impressive waves. The town of Negombo on the west coast of Sri Lanka has become a hangout for kitesurfers who come here for the winds from May to the end of September.
Thanks to the varied topography of the island, Ceylon has excellent conditions for rafting, the now fashionable hiking and mountain biking.
Lovers wildlife come to Sri Lanka to watch the whales and dolphins that appear in the waters near the town of Mirissa. IN certain time During the year, you can also see sea turtles coming ashore to lay eggs.
Where to stay
Most famous resort for a beach holiday in Sri Lanka - the town of Bentota and its surroundings. This is where the largest number of hotels are located, offering accommodation for every taste. However, the hotels are located at a considerable distance from each other, so tourists can enjoy a relaxing holiday.
A beautiful secluded hotel in Benote - Saman Villas, which is located on a small rocky hill, right on the ocean. It is quiet and cozy here, the number of rooms (and especially the open-air bathroom) pleases travelers who do not skimp on positive reviews. Tourists also note the excellent cuisine in the hotel restaurant and praise the treatments at the local spa. The cost of living is about 300 dollars per day.
The small village of Hikkaduwa is popular among divers and surfers, who are known to be not too fussy, so it is mainly located inexpensive hotels and apartments.
You can snorkel and swim in the calm waters, which are protected from the waves by a coral ridge, at the Trincomalee resort, located on the east coast of the country.
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Time zone: time in Sri Lanka is 1.5 hours ahead of Moscow. |
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Visa: Russian citizens do not need to apply for a visa in advance. It is placed at the airport upon arrival. |
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How to get there: flights to Colombo are carried out Etihad Airlines(with a transfer in Abu Dhabi), Emirates (with a transfer in Dubai), as well as Aeroflot. Travel time is about 10 hours. The cost of a round-trip ticket is from 25 thousand rubles. |
Irina Lavery
The most famous beach resorts India is:
- Goa- the center of the former Portuguese colony and one of the most favorite states of tourists from Europe and Russia. Divided into two districts. North Goa aimed at young people and those who are partial to hippie culture. South Goa is more fashionable and quiet. The length of the sandy coast washed by the Arabian Sea is 101 km.
- Tamil Nadu is the most southern state countries with sandy and rocky beaches, the quality of infrastructure is somewhat inferior to neighboring Kerala, which is why resorts in this area are chosen by lovers of authentic culture and recreation not in “tourist” India, but in “real” India.
- Orissa is one of the few popular resorts on the eastern coast of Hindustan among guests from other countries. The length of its coastline is more than 400 km. The beaches of this state, especially revered by Hindus, are washed by the waters of the Bay of Bengal; the main tourist areas are Puri and Bhubaneswar.
- Islands - island resorts in India are located on the archipelagos of Lakshadweep, Andaman and Nicobar, as well as on Diu. The tourism infrastructure of these areas is developing while maintaining local color and traditions.
Almost all seaside resorts in India have everything you need for a comfortable “European” holiday - hotels differentiated by class and price, excursion centers, markets, transport and leisure infrastructure.
Kerala - the main Ayurvedic resort of India
Several hundred Ayurvedic and SPA centers are concentrated in Kerala, where programs of cleansing, rejuvenation, cosmetology, weight correction and treatment of certain diseases are offered according to the authentic canons of Ayurveda. Coastline This state covers 590 km, in the north and in the center are the Western Ghats, included in the list World Heritage UNESCO. In Kerala, 33 beaches with varied landscapes are open to the public. Kovalam is considered the most visited and well-appointed. For a “wild” holiday, you can go to the sparsely populated Marari and Varkala.
Alternative to resorts - largest cities in India
To those who beach holiday prefers an excursion, he will like such Indian cities alternative to resorts as:
- Delhi is the “capital of seven empires”, consisting of New Delhi (the modern capital of India) and Old Delhi, where Hindu and Catholic temples, mosques and markets are concentrated. There are 60 thousand monuments in the city, including Humayun's tomb, Qutub Minar and the Red Fort.
- Mumbai is the largest and most cosmopolitan city in India, the capital of the state of Maharashtra, home of the famous Bollywood. Places to see in the city and state include Chhatrapati Shivaji Railway Station, Elephanta Island cave temples, Ellora and Ajanta Caves.
- Bangalore is the capital of the state of Karnataka, which is home to 26 thousand historical monuments and more than 30 national parks and nature reserves;
- Agra - former capital Mughal Empire, one of the largest tourist centers India. Here are the Taj Mahal, Agra fortress, Dramma mosque, Itimad-ud-Daula mausoleum. The abandoned city of Fatehpur Sikri is 40 km away.
Mountain resorts in India
There are several modern ski and snowboard resorts in the mountainous regions of India. To the largest and most popular among tourists and local residents relate:
- Dayara-Bugayal
- Mundali
- Kufri
- Gulmarg
Travel to the Himalayas, chosen by fans of non-standard SPA holidays and spiritual practices, is becoming increasingly popular among a wide range of tourists. In the areas belonging to India, you can visit Pangong Tso Lake, the house of the Dalai Lama, the house of Dr. Graham, the Stupa of Shanti and Helena Roerich, the monasteries of Ghum, Tashiding, Pemayangze, the Valley of Flowers, the source of the Indus River and the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute.
Of all the countries in the world, most likely, it is India that is capable of turning a person’s worldview around, forever changing his idea of life, death, and happiness. Traveling through this large and colorful country, you can see so much that the trip can replace a trip around the world for a tourist.
A traveler who is planning to make an independent journey to the land of a thousand secrets and a million mysteries should do a little preparation for the trip. Many Europeans, arriving in India unprepared, experience severe culture shock, which 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 struck by dirty streets, littered water bodies, and the 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 culture so different from ours. Be able to see stars reflected in a puddle. However, soon the shock passes, and the person begins to see, think, and feel differently. And all the treasures of Indian history and modernity will leave an extremely positive impression: the taste of masala tea, the aroma of temple incense, the Taj Mahal shimmering in a pink haze and a smiling street preacher...
Although accommodation and food are very cheap in India, you must come to terms with high travel costs as well as a US$60 visa fee.
Visa
The Indian Republic has made an attempt to save tourists from many countries, including Russia, from communicating with bureaucrats or smiling and money-loving employees of travel agencies and visa centers when receiving a regular tourist visa. An entry permit for a period of 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 website, 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 pay the consular fee - $60. You can pay for the service with VISA or Master Card.
You can also obtain a visa in the usual way: at consulates, visa centers or through mediation travel companies. 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 on planes of ETIHAD and TURKISH AIRLINES. The last two offer travel with a transfer, but are cheaper. The leading domestic carrier guarantees direct and non-stop flights, but charges a little more for speed.
Direct flight (6 hours in the sky) - from 322 euros round trip, with a transfer to 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, may scare away domestic tourists from the services of this, by the way, very good airline.
Housing
Even in the capital of a fairy-tale country you can find a double room in a hotel with all amenities - from 4 euros per night. Of course, you shouldn’t expect a European level from an establishment, but it’s quite suitable for a tourist who can do without breakfast in the room and a safe.
The hotel, offering double rooms from 15 to 20 euros, provides clients with quite European comfort and amenities.
In principle, there are thousands of excellent hotels in India that do not have their own website, are not in the database of hotel reservation systems, but offer good conditions accommodation. Many experienced tourists do not reserve rooms in advance and travel at random, which allows them to save even more. But for those traveling to India for the first time, it is still better to reserve accommodation in advance.
Apartments in Delhi or Mumbai can be found for 15-17 euros/day. Living with a Hindu 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 good advisers and even guides through the most interesting places cities of India.
Nutrition
Indian cuisine consists of rice, vegetables, dairy products, nuts and honey. Not everyone in the country eats meat, but in many restaurants you can see dishes made from lamb, goat, and poultry (chicken, goose, duck, turkey) on the menu. The abundance of fruit is simply magnificent, and you can get freshly squeezed juices 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 dessert and water, you must add the magic words: “But spicy, please!” (no spices please). This does not mean at all that the served dish will be bland, far from it. It’s just that in this case they will bring you food that you can eat and admire a completely unique flavor bouquet.
Absolutely everything is delicious in India. Many Europeans are discovering vegetarianism, amazed by the abundance of delicious dishes made from fruits, nuts, vegetables and dairy products. Oriental sweets and spices with a unique “ensemble” of aromas are so different from the usual and familiar ones that a culinary adventure will be almost as vivid as an acquaintance with 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.
Having chosen establishments 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 yourself anything, you won’t have to spend more than 10-12 euros a day on food.
What to try?
To list all the famous Indian dishes, you will need several dozen pages of text, but you can highlight the “magnificent ten” dishes that you simply must try:
- Dal is a lentil stew richly flavored with spices. The basis of the diet of more than half of the vast country. The most inexpensive and accessible dish. Among the main advantages: satisfying, healthy and inexpensive;
- Palak Paneer is the most delicate cheese in spinach sauce, there are many varieties of this dish, but only one thing remains the same - excellent taste;
- Sabji is an incredibly common vegetable stew with rice and flatbread. A vegetarian masterpiece;
- Tandoori chicken is marinated chicken baked in a special oven. The dish is spicy, but unleavened rice and flatbreads “even out” the situation. Tasty!
- 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 difficult to call it a dish. When you order a Thali, you get a plate with flatbreads, rice, vegetables, sauces - a great lunch;
- Gajar Ka - halwa made from ordinary carrots and almonds, a favorite delicacy in the north of the country;
- Samosa - fried pies with vegetable or curd filling;
- Raita is a cold vegetable soup prepared on the basis of yogurt; the exotic okroshka is especially good in hot weather, especially in summer.
When traveling around India, you can eat in European restaurants, where the dishes will be familiar. But it is better to order fish delicacies if the restaurant is located by the sea. In this case, the freshness of fish products is guaranteed. Experienced Travelers It is not recommended to eat fish in India from May to August, when the weather is very hot.
Dal - lentil stew Main attractions
Agree that in a country where there are about hundreds of thousands of ancient temples, palaces, monuments, and sanctuaries, it is difficult to determine what to visit first. Tourist guides offer many sites and routes to suit every taste, but they all include several sites in the list that are simply impossible to miss:
- Delhi - you can spend two days in the capital, or you can explore it for several weeks. You should 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); Qut Minar is an ancient mosque, of which only the minaret remains. The main object is a mysterious iron column, which has not corroded at all in 1,500 years (entrance: 3.30 euros); Lakshmi Narayan is a modern Hindu temple, opened in the mid-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 wife of Shah Jihan (Taj Mahal). Entrance fee - 10 euros;
- Ajanta - cave temple complex, a place to find the path to liberation from suffering: ancient paintings, Buddha statues, huge halls and narrow cells (entry - 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 - a city of museums and markets, vibrant and eventful night life, one of the most modern cities in the country, Indian Hollywood, there is a lot of interesting things, but it’s difficult to see the real India here;
- Varanasi - City of dead, a place of funeral pyres, cleansing from all sins and mourning ceremonies. The spectacle is quite specific, as are the aromas that reign in the city. But you cannot know India without visiting Varanasi. From Delhi by train it takes 11 hours, a ticket starts from 4 euros one way;
- Kolkata - it’s simply nice to walk along the central streets of the old city, look into the temple of the goddess Kali, visit the Kumar Tuli artisans quarter, buy a small figurine of one of the many gods, and relax in the Maidan Park. The city has a reputation cultural capital India, although it makes a depressing impression on many Europeans, but after a few days of living, the huge slum areas no longer seem so scary, and the numerous museums and exhibition halls will help fill your stay with vivid emotions and pleasant memories.
The list is far from complete. In all major cities In India, you can find an experienced and knowledgeable guide from local residents who, for a nominal fee of 3-5 euros, will show you hometown from the most unexpected side, they will help you bypass queues at museums and palaces, and provide comfortable spot in the church during the service.
Important!
When traveling to a country of magnificent temples and palaces, we must not forget that there are some peculiarities of hygiene and behavior in India. Take simple but useful things with you:
- Wet disinfectant wipes;
- Activated carbon and antiacid (Gastal type);
- Hydrogen peroxide tablets;
- Patch.
Do not drink water from the tap or from waterpots. Only in store bought bottles.
Have an unforgettable experience!
