India has long been a favourite destination here at Original Travel. It's the kind of country that inspires a lifelong affinity; travellers become hooked on the kaleidoscope of colour, energy and spirituality that pulsates throughout the nation. From India’s remarkable landscapes and diverse cities to its thriving wildlife and creative cuisine, there’s always more to explore. Keen to discover more reasons to visit India? Read on for our roundup of the best…
1. Size and diversity
2. Wonderful wildlife
3. Flight routes
4. Family-friendly
5. Beautiful coastline
6. Delicious cuisine
1.
Size and diversity
From its colourful, chaotic metropolises to its mystical mountain ranges, lush national parks and laid-back coast, it’s hard to believe that this shifting landscape all belongs to the same country. The nation’s incredible diversity is the first of many reasons to visit India, the most populous country on earth (home to almost 1.5 billion people). With over 200 native languages, 2,000 ethnic groups, and every religion imaginable coexisting, we firmly believe that India is one of the most exciting travel destinations on the planet. Whether you want to experience a new culture, religious tradition, or the natural world, a trip to India will not disappoint.
Image by Jerome Galland
2.
Wonderful wildlife
India is teeming with abundant wildlife, boasting over 100 national parks and 18 biosphere reserves. Its national animal, the Bengal Tiger, is the most famous draw; India is home to over half the world’s remaining population. To spot these majestic big cats, head to Sundarbans National Park in West Bengal, Bandhavgarh and Satpura National Park in Madhya Pradesh, or Ranthambore National Park in Rajasthan. The drier months (March to June) offer the best sightings. Aside from our striped feline friends, India is also home to the Asian elephant (in fact, 60% of the world’s population lives here). Just make sure to do your research before visiting an elephant sanctuary, as many centres have poor animal welfare standards. Other animals you might spot in India’s parks include sloth bears, crocodiles, leopards and Asiatic wild dogs. Oh, and did we mention that India is home to over 12% of the world’s bird species? Head to Keoladeo National Park in Rajasthan for the ultimate bird-spotting experience.
3.
Flight routes
Thanks to the country’s monumental size, there are a plethora of flight options into India. British Airways and Virgin Atlantic offer direct flights from the UK to destinations including Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai and Hyderabad. Based in the USA? There are a whopping 122 Indian destinations to choose from. Once you’ve touched down, hop on one of the ever-increasing numbers of domestic flights and make your multi-state trip a reality. Need any more reasons to go to India? India’s seamless e-visa application process is also worth shouting about. As a UK tourist, you’re eligible for a 30-day, one-year or five-year visa. Simply apply and pay online from four to 120 days in advance (great news for both the very organised and the last-minute trip-bookers).
Image by Brian Flaherty
4.
Family-friendly
Next up on our list of reasons to visit India is that it’s a fantastic family holiday destination. Embark on a trip to the ‘Golden Triangle’, of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur, for the perfect family introduction to the country. With plenty of sightseeing to do (including the unmissable Taj Mahal) and activities like block printing and rickshaw rides, everyone is kept entertained. In Kerala, try everything from cooking classes and bicycle rides to backwater boat trips and wildlife tours. Royal Rajasthan also offers ample adventure for all the family. Ride on a camel into the Thar desert, discover ornate palaces and head to one of its magnificent national parks (see above) to see your children’s favourite animals in the wild. In Goa, children can explore historic forts, enjoy a variety of watersports and discover a spice plantation.
5.
Beautiful coastline
India has some seriously gorgeous coastlines to explore (almost 5,000 miles, in fact). Goa, India’s smallest state and beach paradise, has long been the go-to for travellers seeking a spiritual coastal retreat. With Portuguese influences and miles of golden sand, it’s famously described as a place of ‘susegad’ (quiet). Whether you’re searching for a hippie haven or a surfing mecca, there’s a beach in Goa to suit every traveller. Over 100 miles down the coast from Goa lies the state of Karnataka, which is also home to some stunning beaches (we’re looking at you, Gokarna). With fewer crowds, practise yoga in the sand and soak up the laid-back culture. In Kerala, head to secluded Samudra, wellness-focused Varkala, or Kovalam for watersports. Want a slice of island life? Fly from mainland cities to India’s mystical Andaman Islands, scattered across the Bay of Bengal, for a postcard-perfect off-the-grid escape.
Image by Liam Baldock
6.
Delicious cuisine
In our humble opinion, one of the most important reasons to go to India is to try their mouthwatering cuisine. Part of the beauty is that each region in the country takes you on a different gastronomic adventure. You could eat biryani in Hyderabad, seafood in Goa, dhokla in Gujerat and dosas in Tamil Nadu. Good news for vegetarian travellers, too, as India prides itself on being one of the most vegetarian-friendly countries in the world. This is largely thanks to the religious makeup of the country - 80% Hindus and 14% Muslims - whose teachings deem cows sacred and prohibit eating pork, respectively.
Written by Hannah Whitehall | Header image by Chris Stowers/PANOS-REA