Holidays in India: when, where and why. Where is a good beach holiday in India? Popular holiday destinations in India

Mysterious and wise India is a great holiday on the beaches of Goa and Kerala, colorful Delhi and the soaring Himalayas, the treasures of the Golden Triangle and the ancient secrets of Ayurveda, rave discos and yoga tours. Photos, visa, road, maps and hotels - everything about India from the Subtleties of Tourism.

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India is one of the most amazing countries in South Asia. The cradle of 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 hungry for incredible discoveries.

India is mysterious, unlike any other place 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 attractions coexist with rickety shacks and noisy bazaars - there is no wealth here, but there is life. And the backdrop to everything is magnificent landscapes: mountain peaks, jungles, beaches - the local nature is generous in beauty. People come here for enlightenment: in isolation from the Western bustle, you begin to look at the world with different eyes. And here they sunbathe under the gentle sun, conquer the obstinate waves, have fun at fashionable resorts, and comprehend the true meaning of yoga. India, with all its traditions and history of 5000 years, fits perfectly into modern reality.

Regions and resorts of India

Time difference from Moscow

2.5 hours

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• from Severo-Kurilsk

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Climate

Maps of India

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 your visa while in the country. In addition, it is worth taking out a health insurance policy in advance for the entire duration of the trip.

A trick for those flying to Goa: permission for a 15-day stay in the state can be obtained right at the airport, having previously agreed on the details with a local travel agency.

The import of currency is not limited; amounts from 5,000 USD in cash or from 10,000 USD together with checks and securities must be declared. You are allowed to import 50 cigars, 200 cigarettes or 250 g of tobacco (your choice); 2 liters of any alcohol; 250 ml of eau de toilette or 60 ml of perfume; one name of personal items (laptops, strollers, household appliances, etc.). Weapons, animals, birds, plants, gold and silver jewelry (except personal jewelry), gifts and items for sale must be declared. Customs duty is 60% of the value of the item. Prohibited: 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 export local currency, pornography, any counterfeits, antiques over 100 years old, skins of rare reptiles and animals, wildlife objects, jewelry worth more than 2000 INR (unless purchased in duty-free), bird plumage and drugs.

• What are India's passport validity requirements?

How to get to India

The cheapest and fastest flights to Cochin from Moscow are with Air Arabia (360 USD, 10 hours via Sharjah), Scandinavian Airlines and Qatar Airlines fly from St. Petersburg with two transfers (428 USD, 32 hours via Stockholm and Doha ). The same tandem takes you from the Northern capital to Trivandrum (360 USD, 16 hours with connections in Moscow and Doha); it is more convenient for Muscovites to fly with Air Arabia for 370 USD one way (11 hours via Sharjah).

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Transport

The most comfortable and fastest way to travel around the country is by plane. Domestic flights are carried out by Indigo, Go Air, Jet Airways, Spice Jet and other carriers. Sometimes they offer excellent prices: for example, you can fly from the capital to Mumbai with Go Air for 7,500 INR and a 2-hour journey. But in most cases it is cheaper to travel by train (long distances) or bus (short distances). By rail, it is more profitable to travel by 2nd class trains with air conditioning and two types of carriages: 4 and 6 people per compartment.

A special train with air-conditioned carriages, 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 class.

At the main 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, with change given in rupees).

The bus network in India is well developed: there are public and private transport companies in every state. The average cost of a 1 km trip on a state bus is from 1 INR. Prices from private carriers depend on the bus class and distance.

Urban transport

Shuttle buses operate in almost all Indian localities. Opening hours are until 19:30, ticket prices are based on 2-3 INR per 1 km. Large cities - Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata - have a metro system. A ride on the capital's subway costs 15-60 INR depending on the distance.

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

Motorized rickshaws, or tuk-tuks, 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 pedicab is an option suitable only for a sightseeing walk around the city: the speed is a snail's pace, there is no convenience. And if the passenger is “in the body”, they are not pulled up the hill at all, you have to get out and walk alongside. Another authentic transport is tempo, an analogue of Thai songthaew: pickup trucks with two wooden benches in the back. You can ride them for 30 INR.

One day in India

Rent a Car

In short: it’s better not to. There are several reasons, one more significant than the other: firstly, the roads are narrow (albeit in good condition), and markings and road signs are sometimes absent. Secondly, the traffic is very dense almost around the clock; ox-drawn carts, motorcycles, and people move in the general flow; Various representatives of the local fauna regularly appear on the canvas. And last but most importantly, Indian drivers do not follow even the minimum traffic rules. To top it all off, driving in India is on the left hand side. 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 considering the traffic density. The average cost of renting a scooter is 200-400 INR per day, and no one canceled the bargaining, especially if the rental period is more than a week. Required documents: passport and driver's license.

Communications 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 purchase a SIM card: to do this, you need to present your international passport and one 3x4 color photo (since there is practically no place to take a photo on site, it is better to take the photo with you). Mobile communications do not yet cover the entire territory of India, but the situation is changing quickly. The most popular operators 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.

An important point for those who plan to travel around India: you can top up your card only in the state in which it was purchased.

You can also make international calls from STD/ISD payphones installed on Indian streets. The duration and cost of the call are displayed on electronic displays. Calls are ordered through an operator and cost 5-15 INR per minute.

Internet connections are developed only in resorts and big cities. It is most reasonable to connect to an Internet cafe for 75 INR per hour (upon presentation of a passport or a copy of it). Free Wi-Fi is almost rare: access is available only at airports and the largest restaurants or hotels.

Best photos of India

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Hotels in India

Traveling and vacationing in India is always a huge explosion of emotions. India is a country of tea and cinema, elephants and tigers, ancient temples and picturesque resorts. Perhaps, with each new trip it opens up in a new way, endless amazing finds are discovered. We bring to your attention all the most important things about India for tourists planning to visit this fascinating country.

Ancient culture and exotic nature

Unique culture, architectural monuments, incomparable cuisine, marvelous nature, traditions and rituals, a stunning combination of leisurely monks and energetic business centers - all this attracts tourists from all over the world to India every year.

Where is

The exoticism in this ancient country begins with its geographical location. It is located in South Asia and is the largest state in terms of territory and population in this region. India is often referred to as a “continent country”. This is due to the fact that it almost completely occupies the spacious Hindustan Peninsula, as well as the surrounding territories, right up to the Himalayas and Kashmir. It is washed by the vast expanses of the Indian Ocean. The capital of this country is the city of New Delhi.

How to get there from Moscow

It is more comfortable and easier to first take a direct flight to New Delhi, and then carry out internal flights throughout the country. Direct flights are operated by Aeroflot, AirIndia and other airlines.

There are also connecting flight options: flights to Jaipur, Mumbai, Goa and other big cities. There are an order of magnitude more flights with transfers.

We also note that there is no railway connection at all. Overland travel (by car or bus) is theoretically possible, but is quite challenging.

Where is the best place to go: popular destinations

There are many interesting and popular places in India that are worth visiting. However, if you do not organize your trek in advance, the journey can be tiring. In addition, you risk experiencing real culture shock from this “land of contrasts.” Therefore, if you are just starting to get acquainted with this country, the right decision would be to choose one or at most two popular travel destinations. We list the most famous tourist routes:

• New Delhi;
• Mumbai;
• Kerala;
• Himalayas (Rishikesh, Dharamsala, Manali, Rewalsar, Manikaran);
• Northern India (Delhi, Agra);
• Bodhgaya;
• Calcutta.

Having made your choice, focus on the characteristics of a particular region. Fortunately, every state of India has a huge list of attractions.

Weather and climatic conditions

There are no traditional four seasons in India. Indians live in three seasons: hot, humid and cool.

Water temperature

In the most popular resorts in India (Goa and Kerala), the season for holidays by the sea lasts all year round. The prevailing water temperature here is +28…+29 °C. The maximum water temperature occurs in May and is 30 degrees plus.

Air temperature

The change of seasons in India is determined by the monsoons (steady winds). The climate in India can generally be called tropical, that is, mild weather prevails. The average air temperature throughout the year is +25…+27 °C. The temperature in the summer season is +24...+33 °C, and in the winter - +21...+32 °C with a plus sign.

The wet season here falls on June - October; relatively cold and dry weather occurs in November - February; and from March to May the climate tends to be very hot and dry. Therefore, if you are wondering when is the best time to go on holiday to India, give preference to the period from November to March. The air temperature at this time does not drop below +20 °C (even at night). In April comes the hellish heat, and in the summer comes the season of rains and downpours. However, during this conditional “off season” you can significantly save money on flights.

Did you know? The small town in India of Cherrapunji is the rainiest place on Earth, and the Thar Desert in the North-West of the country is, on the contrary, one of the hottest and driest places on the planet. This fact once again confirms that India is a country of contrasts.

Where to go for beach lovers

For those who go to India for a relaxing beach holiday, we present an overview of the most popular resorts.

Goa is considered the main international Indian resort and the real pearl of the country. The resort is rich in golden beaches, magnificent nature, palm forests, and charming old alleys. Tour to Goa - This, among other things, is an ideal option for those who want to combine inert relaxation with the study of local color. This state combines local exoticism and Western European traditions.

Another beautiful place on our planet that is definitely worth a visit is Kerala. This is a green region stretching
along the southeastern coast of the country. Local residents nicknamed this state “God’s Country.” Here you will discover an abundance of vegetation, azure beaches, gorgeous rivers and lakes, as well as bright green mountains.

To relax by the sea in the summer season, as an alternative to the popular resorts of India, you can come to the state of Tamil Nadu. Here you will be greeted by picturesque beaches washed by the warm waters of the Bay of Bengal.

Also pay attention to the almost deserted Andaman and Nicobar Islands. After traveling through the archipelago in the Bay of Bengal, vacationers are provided with vivid impressions of a lifetime.

Another wonderful place for beach lovers is the quiet shores of the Lakshadweep Islands, whose beaches are strewn with white sand, fabulous corals and clear water.

Leisure

Those looking to add some outdoor activities to their schedule can visit the mountainous regions of India. The mysterious Indian mountains are often called the “abode of the gods.”

Take a short trip to Himachal Pradesh, where the peaks of the Himalayas are covered with snow. Traveling through this state, you will find it difficult to get used to the idea that you are still in India.

The state of Sikkim is surrounded by the wonderful Himalayas and preserves the traditions of Tibetan Buddhism. From here you will have the most beautiful view of the Himalayan mountain range and the majestic Mount Kanchenjunga.

Also don't forget about the Kashmir Valley, famous for its fabulous beauty. Here the magical Dal Lake reflects the mountain slopes in its waters.

Sacred places of India

To experience the spirit and history of India, visit the country's religious capital - "immortal city" Varanasi. It is also the oldest inhabited city in the world. Varanasi is home to the waters of the legendary Ganges River, which have served as a place of ritual ablutions for more than two thousand years. The most important historical and architectural monuments are located not far from the city.

Ladakh - high mountainous region of the Himalayas, called Little Tibet. There is no place in India better than Ladakh where you can relax your soul and body. Ladakh preserves the unchanging traditions of Tibetan Buddhism. The area is rich in secluded monasteries and shrines, prayer wheels and divine chortens.

The cities of Rishikesh and Haridwar stand on the banks of the sacred Ganges and have been awarded the title of world capitals of yoga practice. Yoga tour in India - A wonderful method of replenishing your reserve of vitality.

For nightlife lovers

Let's also consider where in India it is better to relax for lovers of nightlife. Various clubs and bars are open in all major cities and resort areas of India. Many night bars with live music, excellent cocktails and delicious fish and seafood dishes will not leave you indifferent. Great attention is paid to interior design in establishments. The toilets in the establishments are not just clean, but artistically decorated.

Most of the clubs and bars in Delhi are located in luxury hotels. These establishments do not allow single men to enter, making them fairly safe for single women. Club life comes alive on weekends.

The famous Buddha Bars (B-Bars) are so named due to the predominance of religious themes there.

The Capitol club was created for lovers of Bollywood music.

Did you know? You will not find alcoholic beverages on sale in India. Alcohol is not prohibited in the country, but it is not particularly encouraged. Findit is possible only in specially designated places. Most cafes also officially do not have it (sometimes they sell it illegally); it is only available in restaurants.

Today, one of the most popular night spots is Hauz Khas Village (in Delhi). In the evenings, local golden youth gather here. There are also Mediterranean-style restaurants.

Features of accommodation

India is considered an inexpensive country for tourism: housing, food, travel can cost you a minimal amount. Although, of course, it all depends on your appetite.

Transport

Taxis and autorickshaws (motorcycle taxis) operate in large cities. These vehicles do not always have meters available. If there is a meter, make sure that it is reset for you. In addition, taxis come with or without air conditioning.

Taxi fares change periodically, so the price does not always correspond to the meter readings. However, the driver must have a copy of the current fare.

The price of a three-wheeled rickshaw is approximately half the price of a taxi.

In tourist centers there are a large number of cars with drivers at your service. The approved price list for their services is slightly higher than that of regular taxis. Renting a car without a driver is unpopular, but you can rent a motorcycle or scooter.

Nutrition

When traveling to any country, it is important to have an idea about its culinary traditions.

Most people in India do not consume meat from cows or other cattle for religious reasons. People prefer fish and seafood. The basis of the Indian diet is plant foods: various legumes, vegetables, flatbreads made from chapatis (low-grade flour). Hot milk tea is very popular among Indians.

In national dishes, cooks use a lot of hot pepper and garlic. Everyone knows the famous Indian curry seasoning!

It is strictly undesirable to drink raw tap water. Also remember to wash your hands regularly and thoroughly with soap. Wash vegetables and fruits using mineral water and soap. During the rest period, it is better to exclude fresh vegetable dishes from your diet. Always keep sanitary napkins with you when traveling.

Housing

India is one of the most affordable countries on Earth in terms of living. Several types of housing are available:

• Ashrams (spiritual communities where pilgrims from all over the world come) and monasteries.
• Guesthouses (small private hotels) and standard hotels.
• Private houses.
• Bambu hats (modest temporary huts in the coastal area).

Renting a home can be done in advance or on the spot (upon arrival at the holiday destination). If you rent housing for a long period (3 or more months), the cost is significantly reduced.

Important! Do not leave valuables and money in visible places. It is advisable to use a safe in hotels, as there are cases of theft.

Utility fees are often paid separately. The price of prestigious housing includes the provision of additional services (for example, ordering breakfast, bartender services).

Go shopping!

When planning a trip to India, be prepared for the fact that your friends will make you a lot of orders for souvenirs. In order not to get lost in the variety of choices on the market, be sure to familiarize yourself with the list of everything you need in advance.

In addition, be wary of any recommendations from sellers. You always need to be prepared for an “attack” from very intrusive sellers of all sorts of small things. Whatever you end up purchasing, you will remember the aroma of incense in the shopping arcade for a long time.

It is customary to bargain in shops and markets, but in shopping centers prices are fixed.

Here is a small list of what is worth buying in India:

• tea (black or expensive green);
• various fabrics, carpets;
• wood crafts;
• jewelry (bracelets, necklaces);
• traditional musical instruments;
• leather products;
• cosmetics and incense.

Important!When purchasing jewelry (for example, made of silver), ask for a quality certificate. Only with this document will you be able to return or exchange the product if necessary.

Features of Indian culture: rules of behavior on vacation

In India, it would be a good idea to adhere to certain rules of behavior to avoid possible problems.

It is advisable for women to wear closed clothing before leaving the hotel boundaries. Bare-shouldered, short dresses, skirts or shorts are not allowed into most shrines. Therefore, when going on a trip, women should take a scarf with them to hide their shoulders. Male tourists are advised to wear trousers. When entering a sanctuary or monastery, you are required to take off your shoes, although sometimes it is permissible to enter in socks.

In the interior of the country, indigenous people can show a lively and disinterested curiosity towards travelers. Don't be surprised or react harshly if you are stared at or urged to shake hands.

Today, a holiday in India is considered the main competitor to traveling to any other country in the world. We hope that our small guide will be useful to you on your way to exploring this ancient country, on the path of spiritual enlightenment, or in search of an active or relaxing beach holiday.

The Indian state of Goa stretches along the western coast of the country, next to the Indian Ocean. Geographically and historically it is divided into northern and southern parts. Where is the best place to relax in Goa? Let's try to figure it out.

The Zauri River separates North and South Goa. The state's infrastructure is also divided along this geographic line. Indeed, completely different categories of tourists prefer to relax in the north and south.

North Goa and South Goa differ from each other in energy and atmospheric charge, because young people prefer to relax in the north, and wealthy couples with children prefer to relax in the south.

Discussions about where is the best place to relax in Goa continue to this day. It all depends on your temperament and what you want to get from your holiday in this blessed place. In the end, only you decide where it is better to go to Goa.

This place was opened for recreation in the 60s of the last century by representatives of the hippie movement. And today North Goa is preferred by lovers of hiking, wild parties and discos until the morning.

Those who are looking for new, unusual experiences and discoveries come here. Previously, it was a real Mecca for students, moneyless people, fans of Hinduism, students of the Vedas, etc. The Beatles visited here in the 60s.

Where is the best place to relax in North Goa? First of all, this part of the state is famous for its beaches, where there are always a lot of young people and other easy-going people.

It should be remembered that in North Goa there are no very expensive and modern hotels with the highest level of service. Here everything is much simpler and more democratic, closer to an ordinary student. This is how North Goa differs from South Goa.

If you are wondering where to go to Goa, then from the point of view of the cost of a vacation, the best place, of course, is in this part of the state. Here you can find the lowest prices and completely merge with the magnificent Indian nature.

Beaches of North Goa

1.Arambol

This is the calling card of the northern part of the state. Arambol is the most famous among tourists, so it is always full of people. Tourists can enjoy cafes, bars, inexpensive hotels, shops and stalls.

Arambol has a magnificent market called the Drum Circle. Every evening a local youth crowd gathers here and watches the sunset. One of the best places where you can have an inexpensive holiday in Goa.

2.Mandrem

And this beach is most often chosen by newlyweds or families with children. There are many small lagoons - natural seawater pools - where children can bathe, and they absolutely love it.

Mandrem is one of the best holiday destinations in Goa. In addition to inexpensive infrastructure, it offers tourists magnificent sand, a gently sloping seabed with virtually no rocks and an extraordinary sunset in the evenings.

3. Morjim

This beach is also called Moscow-beach, because... Most vacationers here speak Russian. Authentic Russian cuisine predominates in the food and drinks served in local cafes and bars. And the music sounds purely domestic.

This Goa beach is the best place for Russians to relax, but you should remember that it is considered quite expensive. But here you can go windsurfing or kiting – the weather is favorable.

4.Calangute

This North Goa beach has the most developed tourist infrastructure: cafes, bars, restaurants, hotels, sun loungers, umbrellas, etc. The beach completely meets all modern requirements.

Calangute is always full of vacationers; here you can enjoy water sports or just soak up the sun. Tourists will be pleased with the fine and clean sand, flat bottom and clear sea water off the coast.

5.Candolim

This beach is a wonderful “golden mean” for those who cannot decide where to go to Goa. In its spirit, Candolim is closer to South Goa. It is comfortable, sophisticated and secular, and has a tourist infrastructure.

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 the best resorts in India and see the country in all its splendor.

India is an amazingly multifaceted and original country, each resort of which bears the imprint of its ancient history and culture. It is home to famous Ayurvedic centers and clinics, stunning 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 the best holiday destinations in India and what makes them 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 in India by the sea are located: 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 amazing place in Goa 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 holidays 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. 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 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 must be chosen carefully due to the 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 in a ski tour rather than a beach one, feel free to go to the states of Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh and Kashmir. There is a lot of snow here, and the ski slopes are excellent.

India attracts guests who love the exotic, are chasing new experiences, and want to be satiated with new excellent emotions and feelings. This country is unique, only here pleasure and disgust, wealth and poverty, extreme and tranquility are combined on the edge. When going on a trip to this country of contrasts and secrets, it is worth deciding where to go in India, as there are places for a wide variety of types of recreation.

Brief geographical information

Located on the Hindustan Peninsula, India stretches for 3 thousand km from south to north and almost also from west to east. The eastern part of the country is washed by the Bay of Bengal, the western by the Arabian Sea, and the south by the Indian Ocean. The climate here is subtropical and depends on the monsoons. It is precisely because of the climatic conditions that vacation here is divided into two seasons: dry (high) and wet (low).

India is diverse, colorful and fascinating; here every traveler will find entertainment to his liking. Since it’s definitely not possible to travel around the entire country in one trip, those who come here for the first time need to decide on the type of vacation:

• beach;
• active hiking in the mountains;
• introduction to Ayurveda;
• excursion trips.

Travel to Beach India

The country is washed on three sides by warm sea water, but there are few truly comfortable places suitable for a beach holiday. Among the most famous places where sun lovers could relax are the small state of Goa and the not so famous Kerala. The rest of the coast has practically no developed tourist and beach infrastructure, so we have to talk about these two resorts.

1. Goa— go for picturesque beach landscapes with snow-white sand and turquoise sea surface. Young people come here in large groups, as only here you can have a lot of fun at fiery night parties.

Conventionally, this state is divided into:

• southern an area where connoisseurs of comfort and service go on vacation, since only here you can find comfortable, fashionable hotels that provide a full range of services with a high level of service;
• northern– this is a recreation area for “savages”.

Apart from beach activities, there are no attractions in Goa. Therefore, this is a place to relax.

1. Kerala– is considered a more expensive and respectable resort area, located south of Goa. Wealthy guests of the country vacation here, so there are no large noisy youth groups. Varkala is considered the most popular holiday destination in this state.

The best time for a beach holiday is November-March. At this time, the weather is pleasant, with a calm, clear sea and no precipitation.

Mountain tourism in India

The second most popular type of recreation in India is mountain tourism, namely hiking in the Himalayas. The western regions of the mountain ranges are more attractive for tourists, as it is easier to get here from Delhi.

The top places to visit in the Himalayas are.

1. Rishikesh– these are foothill areas that can be visited even in winter. Yoga lovers flock to this place. Among the local attractions is the bridge
2. Dharamsala– a very popular tourist destination. The main feature of Darsala is the presence of the residence of the Dalai Lama. That is why in this place you can meet Tibetans and monks, visit numerous monasteries, and get acquainted with Tibetan medicine. There are many different courses here: from cooking to jewelry making.

In addition, Dharamsala is famous for its Iyengar yoga school and meditation courses based at monasteries. Fans of active recreation can master trekking in the mountains.

1. Revalsar– a quiet place near Lake Revalsar. This is a place of three religions, where a huge number of Buddhist monasteries are concentrated, where you can undergo meditation and attend courses.

Cultural holidays in India

It is better to travel to cultural places and attractions in October-November or March-April.

1. Delhi– to get acquainted with the culture of the country, feel its aroma and see all the colors, you definitely need to visit its capital, the city of crossroads - Delhi. Despite the fact that it is a very noisy and rather dirty city, only here you can see the real India.
2. Agra is a typical bustling Indian city, but its main attraction, the Taj Mahal, is a must-see. Those who are interested in Hinduism or simply want to see the beauty and variety of temples should go to Vrindavan, where Krishna was born.
3. Varanasi- a very special place, since its main attraction is funeral pyres that burn all day long.

These are not all the best places to go in India, because there are many areas to get acquainted with Ayurveda, places where national holidays are celebrated, night markets, etc.

The climate and geographical location of the country influence throughout the year.

India in the summer months

Almost the entire summer period, India is at the mercy of the monsoons, which bring downpours to the country. Because of this, the sky is overcast with low clouds, air humidity reaches 100%, and sea waters are restless. Daytime temperatures reach +37 degrees, making it very difficult to breathe. At this time, you should avoid active travel around the country. However, this period is good for attending Ayurvedic and healing courses.

India in autumn

Until October, the country is simply drowning in rain. However, from the second half of autumn, precipitation becomes less and the weather is ready to receive the first tourists. It is better to go to Goa at this time, since there is a drought in the north, and the south is still suffering from rains.

India in winter

Winter is a heavenly holiday destination in India. The weather here is completely restored, there is practically no rain. In the west of the country during the day the thermometers show +26 Celsius, closer to Goa it is hot up to +32 during the day, in the capital the temperature is 20-22 with a positive sign, so it is comfortable to visit the sights at this time.

• For skiers, the winter months are an excellent opportunity to visit the Himalayas, as the snow cover has already formed.

India in spring

The spring months of March-May are a period of heat, when temperatures reach +41 Celsius, and there is no precipitation at all. At this time, it is better to visit mountainous areas, as the rest of the country is simply sweltering from the heat.

Living in India

Any traveler wonders which hotel to choose, and in the case of India, this question is especially acute.

There are several types of hotels in the country, which have certain conditions or lack thereof.

• There are special hotels for young people, which are mainly located in the southern part of the country. Prices here are not high, and there are all the necessary amenities for life. The same inexpensive hotels are government hotels where Indian officials stay.

It is better to choose and book rooms in tourist hotels in advance, using special early booking sites. On such resources you can easily find budget options and hotels with Premium or Heritage status, where there are all comfortable conditions for living.

• Private hotels represent a special category. In them, tourists will be able to experience real local flavor and feel the life of real India. However, not everyone will like the lack of hot water supply, change of linen, and shared shower rooms. The guests of such hotels are mainly pilgrims or Indians.
• If you want European comfort and convenience, then you will have to pay a lot of money. The availability of comfortable hotels depends on the area. There are many of them in the south, but the cost of living here is high, while in the north you can often get a discount in such hotels. But staying in a five or four star hotel is possible only in large cities: Delhi, Mumbai, etc.

The cost of a hotel stay is affected not only by the quality of services, but also by the season. So, during the high season, prices for accommodation soar several times, and during the recession, the cost decreases.