6 mind-blowing experiences that you can only have in India

India, a nation that is charmingly varied is the second most-populous country in the world with over 1.2 billion people and bursts with a diverse fusion of ethnicity, a mixture of tradition and innovation and an abundance of diverse landscapes and scenery.

Here’s 6 mind-blowing experiences that you’ve most probably dreamed of doing, seeing and facing in India.

1. Taj Mahal

Known as one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Taj Mahal was built in Agra, India between 1631-1648 as an order of the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife. No trip to India would be complete without a visit to one of the unanimously well-regarded masterworks of the world’s heritage.

2. The Palaces

Other than the Taj Mahal, India offers numerous palaces and ancient forts. Each one offers an enthralling opening into India’s vast historical and cultural variety and they are located all over India. Jaipur City for example is home to the Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Winds), Amer Fort and the City Palace.

3. The Food

When we think of Indian food, we think of butter chicken, tikka masala and samosas to name few however, once in India you discover that Indian cuisine is so different and much more than you ever experienced in your local takeaway. Tasting a creamy mango lassi, sweet hot chai tea, aloo tikka or ada pac will get your taste buds tingling and you’ll realise there’s much more to Indian food than you initially thought.

4. The Cities

India’s cities can feel a little chaotic and overpowering when you first arrive but it’s all part of the experience. Delhi is a city with an abundance of history. See Mughal memorials such as the Red Fort, Qutub Minar, Humayun’s Tomb and Jama Masjid and after, just wander the streets of Old Delhi. Getting lost and finding yourself amongst the chaos of Old Delhi is an essential part of a trip to India. Old Delhi and its bazaars – madness!

5. Spirituality

Finding your spiritual side is easy in India. Buddhism, Hinduism or yoga tickle your fancy? Buddha became enlightened under a Bodhi tree in the northern state of Bihar and is now celebrated by the Mahabodhi Temple that was built. Rishikesh in Uttarakhand is the origin of yoga, enticing thousands of spiritually-starved overseas visitors; and there are many sites of religious importance for Hindus and other believers.

6. The People

The majority of Indians really do want to help you have an amazing time in their country. It’s not unusual to be asked into someone’s house for tea, and travellers to India often make lifetime pals with local people they meet on the road.

Fancy a trip to India? Travel Talk offer an 8-day tour and also a 16-day tour to India and Nepal which means you have the opportunity to visit this beautiful country.