India
India has a lot to offer in terms of nature, culture and cuisine. In between exploring the snowy peaks of Himalaya, discovering untouched tropical beaches and observing jungle cats on wildlife safaris, have a taste of Indian cuisine with its aromatic spices and flavors that subvert everything you thought you knew about the region’s culinary offerings. The long religious history of the country is reflected in a variety of colorful festivals and the intricate architecture of its sacred sites and temples. Despite the recent economic upturn, poverty, sadly, persists, maintaining a tangible class gap and presenting today’s India with major challenges, which by no means takes away from the indisputable pull of this fascinating country of contradictions, a land unlike anything you’ve experienced before.
Ahmedabad
The beating heart of the Indian state of Gujarat, Ahmedabad has managed to preserve its cultural integrity through the centuries, remaining relatively unaffected by the British colonial rule. Little-developed by the tourism industry, the city remains a true hidden gem inhabited by remarkably hospitable Gurajatis, teeming with exquisite historic temples, renowned universities, and world-class vegetarian eateries able to convert diners of the most carnivorous persuasion.
Bangalore
Once a sleepy regional capital, Bangalore today is a modern metropolis that will come as a big surprise to those who are visiting for the first time. Also known as Bengaluru, the capital of Karnataka is the technological hub of India and the very place where the country’s new, confident and global identity is being forged. Although the city might somewhat lack in historical sites, its buzzing and liberal atmosphere provides the perfect base for exploring the beautiful temples and palaces of the Deccan.
Chennai
The site of former Indian, Portuguese and Dutch settlements, today’s Chennai was established by the British in the 17th century as a trading port. This colonial town, formerly known as Madras, has since grown into India’s fourth-largest city and the capital of the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. This bustling and colorful Indian city is bound to have something on offer for everyone.
Cochin
Cochin, also known as Kochi, is one of the most beautiful places in India. This comes as no surprise, since Cochin is known for its rich history, culture, and attractive nature. Many centuries ago, the city was a hub for international merchants who traded various products for aromatic spices, the finest fabrics and shiny jewellery. Dutch, Portuguese, Chinese and Italian influences run through Cochin’s architectural styles. The city is filled with museums, temples, shops, restaurants and so much more to fill an eventful stay.
Hyderabad
Hyderabad is India’s national treasure, full of history, culture and amazing architecture. The century-old city never ceased to attract visitors from all over the world, international influences first pouring in with trade merchants in search of aromatic spices, shiny jewellery and gorgeous pearls. Today, Hyderabad is still known and loved for these goods, and many still travel here from afar to purchase them. The city also has numerous museums, shops, cafes and restaurants, so it’s near impossible to be bored.
Mumbai
A city with well-known architectural beauties like the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel and the World One skyscraper set against the natural harbour of the Konkan coast, Mumbai is the capital of Maharashtra, India. It has now become one of the biggest melting pots in the world, boasting an ever-increasing population that is attracted by both the sights and business opportunities available here. Seeing all it has to offer may seem like a daunting task, but you are sure to find something to your liking in this megalopolis.
New Delhi
Delhi is a thoroughly inscrutable onion of a city: every layer you peel off reveals an even deeper layer of history. Rebuilt eight times by its many conquerors, it has been the seat of the Hindu, Muslim and British empires. All of them have left their mark in the architecture, customs, food and people of this relentless city; all are undergoing a transformation in the capital of modern India.
Trivandrum
Kerala’s first city, with its knotty official name of Thiruvananthapuram (often substituted by the shorter, more manageable Trivandrum), is an exhaustive introduction to southern India’s urban and cultural life. Trivandrum tends to be unjustly overlooked en route to the state’s beachside settlements, but easily warrants a few days of its own.
