Travel is arguably one of the most personally enriching things a person can do with the life; exposure to new locations, cultures and experiences can have a profound effect on the way we see and interact with the world, expanding our horizons in the process. It is only natural that travel be a common fixture in the modern phenomenon that is the ‘bucket list. But how do bucket listers choose their bucket list destinations?
If you’re looking for an adventure holiday jam-packed with ‘first time’s and once-in-a-lifetime experiences, you should look no further than the jewel of South Asia: India. Its culture, history and geography lend itself to the trip of a lifetime – and here’s why.
The Cities
India is a massive country – the seventh-largest by geographic area, to be exact – and full to the brim with magnificent locations both urban and rural. Everywhere in India is deserving of its own time in the spotlight, but there are some key cities that really do deserve a place on your travel bucket list.
New Delhi
New Delhi is India’s capital city, and an absolute must for any India trip as a result. Its diverse influences and cultural make-up make the city a thriving hub, especially during national holidays and cultural events like Diwali and Holi.
Varanasi
Varanasi is one of the most spiritual places in India, being a city of temples built on the banks of the River Ganges. Indeed, there are more than 2000 temples in Varanasi, each of which combine to create one of the most arrestingly beautiful metropolitan landscapes in the country. Varanasi is a crucial pilgrimage point for many Hindus, and a life-changing experience to visit.
Mumbai
Mumbai is a sprawling peninsular city, and India’s biggest. It is an urban paradise, with city development funded by its placement as India’s financial centre. Mumbai’s city skyline is an unmissable experience, with modern architecture marvels set against Art Deco masterpieces of construction.
The Food
Indian food speaks for itself, being one of the most popular forms of cuisine around the world. The humble curry has influenced cooking in countless nations and innumerable kitchens, and the impact of Indian spices has been nothing short of immeasurable when it comes to pan-continental recipe development.
India is hugely regional, with different areas home to different cultures and cuisines; Gujarati cuisine from India’s western reaches is vegetarian by and large, with an emphasis on chutneys and pickles to further accentuate the natural sweetness of their cooking.
Keralan cooking, from the southern tip of the Indian peninsula, sees a wide range of curries and especial attention given to fried food in the form of dosas and vada pav. India’s north-east sees Bengalese cuisine, which offsets the lighter flavours of dry rice and fish dishes with the utter sweetness of desserts like rasgulla.
The Landmarks
India is also no stranger to landmarks, with ancient and modern wonders alike that are sure to enthral any who visit. The Taj Mahal is perhaps the most famous of these landmarks, an instantly recognisable silhouette on the banks of the River Yamuna in Uttar Pradesh. The Taj Mahal is naturally a UNESCO World Heritage site, and even more beautiful in person than it is in pictures.
The Travel
Getting around India when on your trip of a lifetime is an experience in and of itself. The cities are meant to be experienced on foot, but hiring a moped can enable you to enjoy the city from a new perspective entirely. For longer journeys across the country, there is no better way to travel than by train. India’s long-distance sleeper trains are hotels on the move, with incredible service and even more incredible ’rooms’ – truly, a bucket list experience.
