For many tourists, traveling internationally can be a relaxing, carefree experience with the biggest hitch being a baggage delay. But if you’re reading this site, it’s likely you agree that the magic of life only starts when you step out of your comfort zone – and India will push you out of yours. It’s impossible to truly experience a new country and culture without being faced with new realities and ideas that challenge your norms.

Two sides to every coin

Life in India involves vast gaps between the rich and the poor, and it is the second-most populated nation in the world. But that is also why it is so culturally wealthy, far surpassing the United States’ own designation as a melting pot.

The world’s biggest democracy and homeland to one of the oldest civilizations, India has made significant contributions to arts, science, philosophy and – of course! – food and trade, and so much more.

Recognizing the duality of life in India is important when planning your trip, because in a country with such structural, economic and class disparities, the bad does come with the good.

A necessary disclaimer

A lot of nuances are needed here. I would never wish for anyone to think I was speaking negatively about such an incredible place. But the fact remains that life in India can be overwhelmingly different from what many are used to. Our intention in this article is to prepare you for the challenges you might encounter while traveling to India. We even hired an Indian editor to make sure we aren’t speaking with false authority.

That is also why we are going to be talking about some hard truths, and not enough about the immense contributions the country has made to the world.

Lastly, India is a world in itself with hundreds of cultures, provinces, languages, beliefs and more… It is simply impossible to sum up such a vast, culturally rich country. Some things that apply to certain parts of India don’t for other parts. However, we still have made some generalizations about life in India for the point of informing the uninitiated.

Should I Go To India?

We had the trip of a lifetime! But I agree that it is not for everyone. One thing is for sure, one does not simply “go on holiday” to India – one travels in the fullest sense of the word. If your main expectation from a vacation is beach vibes & chilling out, you would be better off picking a spot like Bali or Tulum. India is more for people who are ready to trade their comfort zone for an immense cultural experience.

While you are there, you are quickly exposed to many of the negatives to life in India. As your mind is preoccupied with the challenges you face every day during your trip, you can appreciate it more upon return home when you are thinking in retrospect. India is a fascinating experience that takes a little while to digest (much like Indian food for many newbies 😉 ).

Our Guide for Surviving in India

If you are planning a trip to India, you might be asking yourself:

• What health advice do I need to consider? Do I need vaccinations?
• What are prices like?
• When and where should I go?
• How do you get an Indian visa?
• What should I prepare before I go?
• What should I bring?

For these kinds of questions, skip to our essential India Survival Guide.

Life in India Overview

Size: 3.287 million km² (The seventh largest country in the world in landmass)
Population: 1.3 billion (according to 2016 World Bank data). The second highest population in the world, but expected to exceed China by 2030.
Capital: New Delhi
Other major cities: Mumbai (formerly Bombay), Bangalore, Hyderabad, Varanasi, Goa, Jaipur
Currency: Rupee

A Colossal Cultural Mix

With all its converging ethnicities, cultures and religions, India may be the most colorful and flavorful country on the planet. The subcontinent is surrounded by three seas on three sides and hemmed in by the Himalayas to the north, isolating it from the world. Thanks to this natural protection, India was able to develop a mind-blowing variety of unique traditions and cultures.

Although united under one flag, many Indian sub-communities could constitute a nation in themselves. The country was already made up of 565 princely states that persisted as divisions of administration until 1947.

The country’s terrain is just as mixed. It encompasses the snowy peaks of the Himalayas, the barren deserts of Rajasthan and jungles so thick one can barely see a foot ahead.

Every community that has settled in the subcontinent has left an indelible imprint on life in Indian – be it the Mongols (who begot the Moghuls), Persians, Africans, Europeans or East Asians.

Pavings its own path

Of these, no doubt the influence of centuries of rule by the long-standing Moghuls and, more recently, the British, have had the greatest impact on the modern country’s history. But India has succeeded in carving out its own course, owing much to the spirit of independence it carries.

What is probably more impressive is that these converging identities have preserved their traditional ways despite long years of colonialism and the intrusion of widespread global pop culture. Today, many women still wear the wonderful sari and men the turban. Many Indian folks eat with their hands and marry via an arranged marriage. These traditions persists at all levels of society, from the white-collar engineers building the nuclear head to people living in India’s shanty towns.

Is India ‘Dirty’?

There are a lot of blogs out there whining about how “India is filthy.” Yes, the issue of litter and waste disposal is indisputably a major one in Indian cities. It’s also true that many streets are flooded with debris, and they can stink up the streets. BUT this is not the case everywhere. I find that some blogs like to exaggerate the scale of the issue and talk about surviving India like it’s an act of bravery.

There are a lot of hygiene issues but it is no heroic act to overcome these challenges. The guidelines for staying healthy are quite simple, but also critical. Please, please make sure to read about them here before you go:

Our Little Observations…

• One day we needed to wash our clothes, so we tracked down the laundry service being used by 5-star hotels in Mumbai to wash bedsheets and towels. We saw that after linens were washed, they were hung to dry on a line. Then, once dry, they were thrown in a pile on the street to be collected.
• Mice freely ran around the counters of a street food vendor we stopped at in Varanasi.
• Paneer (Indian cheese) is used in a lot of Indian cooking and is made by hand in the morning. In Varanasi, we saw a cow wander over to lick from the bowl in which a man was making paneer, and he simply carried on mixing.
• We witnessed many people relieving themselves in the streets.

Bear in mind that the situation changes according to which city, and where in that city, you find yourself. It would be wrong to generalize the whole country one way or another. Such issues were almost absent in certain parts of the country – namely, Kerala and Goa. For instance, Alleppey, in Kerala, is held up as the cleanest city in India.

Many return from India a bit disturbed because:

1) Hygiene issues were visible on a scale we simply weren’t prepared for.
2) Because of structural issues, which we go into below, many folks in India have been normalized to these issues. But for many foreigners, even seeing a mouse pass in front of a store is reason not to shop there.

Cleanliness in Hinduism:

Though tourists might feel struggle with hygiene in India, it’s good not to forget that cleanliness of the body is extremely highly regarded in Hinduism and, for this reason, homes are tidy and clean and people are expected to shower or bathe every day. India is a very complex place to understand.

The Case of the Bathroom

India is currently trying to address the fact that only 50% of homes are equipped with a toilet. In fact, there is a wider ownership of TVs and cell phones than toilets. So, what does this mean? Over 638 million people are forced to relieve themselves outdoors, on the streets or in the fields every day.

According to the World Bank, India spends 6% of its annual GDP on combating the effect this has on life in India – especially regarding health. Efforts to address the situation have increased in recent years, and systems are being fitted throughout the country. We have seen government sponsored toilet extensions to houses. But there is still a way to go.

One Day in Delhi is Like Smoking 50 Cigarettes

Delhi is the 14th most badly polluted city in the world. A day in the city is held to be as bad as smoking 50 cigarettes. The situation is so bad that smog makes for poor visibility on the roads – to the point that many accidents are caused and even flights have had to be canceled.

Some suggest traditional farming methods contribute to the issue, with smoke from the fires used to clear fields drifting into the cities. According to a Green Peace report, every year in India, 1.2 million people fall ill directly due to air pollution. We had a constant headache during the time we spent in Delhi. So it is not a bad idea to keep your Delhi trip short or wear a face mask.

Water Warning

Although natural water sources are plentiful throughout India, the problem is one of access to clean, potable water, especially in rural areas. India has some of the most polluted rivers in the world, with the holy Ganges river considered to be one of the worst. Some guides even discourage brushing your teeth with the city water. Make sure to avoid ice or water-based foods and drinks as much as possible. Always carry sealed water bottles you’ve bought at a grocery store – never on the street.

The Bigger Question: Why Isn’t It Cleaned It Up?

The Move from Organic to Synthetic: Many link the huge issue of waste disposal to the rapid shift from organic to synthetic materials in daily life in India. For instance, it used to be the case that biodegradable banana leaves were used in place of plates (and sometimes they still are!). Everyone has their own take on this, but I think it’s insufficient as an explanation on its own. After all, the same shift has occurred the world-over, but without so many problems.

The Effect of the Caste System: Another theory links the issue to the caste system. It suggests that in a system where certain castes can’t even touch the shadow of certain casts, it has become impossible to share the same public space. People are drawn more to their private spaces. So the feeling of ownership of public spaces has degraded resulting in apathy in public spaces.

The Issue of Pride: This theory is linked to the above reason. The act of cleaning is seen only worthy of the lowest order of the caste system (Untouchables, or Dalits). When Mahatma Gandhi told Indian Congress members in 1901 that the caste system was an unconscionable aspect of life in India and that everyone ought to clean their own toilet, he was greeted with ridicule. In order to lead by example, Gandhi, a member of the upper caste, cleaned his own toilet in full view of others.

It should also be noted that the state is now working on initiatives to clean up India’s streets.

How Important is the Caste System?

The caste system has been a part of Hindu culture for the last 3,000 years. For more on some of the principles of Hinduism, click on the link to our brief guide.

The Four Castes

1. The highest group are the “Brahman” – This group is the abode of highly regarded wise men such as priests, doctors and lawyers. Belief holds that the Brahman was created by the mind of the god Brahma.
2. The second tier at the “Kshatriya” – The group is for warriors, kings and administrators – created to protect the Brahmans and were created from Brahma’s arms.
3. The third group is the “Vaishya” – Merchants and tradesmen. This group is thought to come from the legs of Brahma.
4. The fourth group is the “Shudra” – Farmers and workers. This group comes from the feet of Brahma.

There also exists a class that has no place in the caste system. The “Untouchables” or “Dalits” are given jobs deemed below that of other Hindus, such as collecting trash, slaughtering animals and manufacturing leather. They are alienated from the majority of Hindu groups in Indian life and they inhabit areas far from others.

Caste System Among the non-Hindus
The caste system was born of Hindu principles. However, as the dominant culture in the region (80% of the population are Hindu), it penetrated all parts of the society. There are some similar hierarchies that have made their way into Muslim, Sikh and Christian groups in India.

Implications

The caste system governs all areas of social and communal life in India. Trades are passed down from father to son and marriages can only occur between members of the same caste. Even drinking from the same well is deemed inappropriate, and it is not possible to ascend from one group to another.

Although the system is officially outlawed and a coalescence has occurred in the cities, it still holds sway in most areas of the country. In order to combat the worst effects of the system, a programme of affirmative action has been afforded groups like the Dalits in both the education system and for representation in parliament. KR Narayanan became the country’s first Dalit president.

Slow but steady change

As the power balance tipped in favor of the trading and commercial castes, a gradual loosening of the old norms has taken place in the country’s major cities. This has reinforced the work embarked on in eradicating the system since the Indian Constitution outlawed the practice in writing.

But the problem is deep-rooted, and given that for 2 out of 3 citizens,  life in India extends little further than the kind of villages and rural towns where progress is slowest, the problem looks likely to persist into the future.

Given that, in many regions, voting is coordinated along class, ethnic and caste lines, it is clear that the caste system is much upheld through its use as a political tool.

Marriage and Weddings in India

As evidenced from any Bollywood movie, the question of marriage is an important one in India. This is also why weddings are no small affair. There are countless regional and cultural variations on the ceremony, and the exact nature of the agreement, but a number of traditions transcend local differences, one in particular that has captured the minds of many though it was once practiced the world over: arranged marriage.

Marriages for love are fairly uncommon in India. There is much pressure on people to get married as soon as possible, and the idea of pre-marital relationships is still rather taboo (even if it occurs).

Highest Rates of Arranged Marriage

Even today, most of India’s marriages are a product of a deal between families before the would-be happy couple have had a chance to meet. If the family can’t find a good candidate themselves, they put an “ad” online or even in the paper. These ads include salaries, profession, appearance (especially skin tone), dietary information, neighborhood and even a dowry on offer. An alternative is to go to a local match-maker – an agency full of CV files where one can peruse candidates.

Even the parents of many second and third generation Indians in foreign countries seek an Indian bride or groom for their children, searching far and wide for a good fit.

Dowries

In the negotiations for a marriage, a dowry can be asked from the bride’s family! This tradition emerged in good faith. As a daughter would not be returning to the family home, it was considered logical that a father gives his daughter her share of inheritance at marriage. However, over time, it since seems to have become a test of the value of a potential husband. Plus, the cost of the wedding is put on the bride’s family.

Given Indian weddings are no small affair and can see the attendance of 500 or more people, the cons are pretty evident and daughters were thus deemed less desirable. In the most tragic cases, this led to the abandonment of female infants – but the state has largely addressed this issue and intervened. Balance in gender has now finally reached a healthy 9.4 girls to every 10 boys.

Attending an Indian Wedding? Some things to look forward to:

• Henna Party: A henna night is celebrated by female family and friends the night before a wedding. Incredibly ornate classic designs and motifs are decorated on the bride’s hands with henna. One maxim is that the darker the henna stain makes on the skin, the more passionate the marriage will be! Some hold the bride shouldn’t have to go back to work until the time the henna wears off completely. Guests can also expect to be adorned with henna.
• Groom’s arrival: The groom arrives before the bride’s family at the wedding venue in a huge convoy. Songs are sung to welcome him.
• Three symbolic elements of a Hindu wedding include: 1. A four-posted pavilion called a mandap. Each post represents one of the couples’ parents. 2. A holy fire representing life and  3. a Hindu priest.
• Walking around a fire: The couple circles the mandap four times before the priest symbolically places a shawl around both parties.

Education in India

School education has been compulsory for all children ages 6-14 since 2010. However, attendance is poor, with the result that only 10% of the country attends university and 75% are literate. Since the population is massive, a rate of 25%  illiteracy makes India the country with the biggest illiterate population in the world.

This is in stark contrast to the fact that 36% of NASA scientists, 38% of American doctors and 12% of US scientists all hail from the subcontinent. Just another example of the huge contrasts and contradictions of Indian life.

Sexual Assault

In 2012, news that Jyoti Singh was raped and murdered by six men on a bus in Delhi sent shock waves across the world and led countless Indian women onto the street in protest.

But generalizations are tough to make and, statistically, Sweden, Norway, the US, Italy, as well as a host of countries generally perceived to be “safer” appear to have a higher rate of incidents of rape. However, the stats are offered by official state reports and, in India, rape that occurs between partners is not considered a crime and multiple acts of rape between the same people are considered one case. Also, the number of women who report such a crime varies country to country but, in India, the fact remains that women have more barriers when it comes to speaking up about sexual assault.

That said, India has only relatively recently begun confronting attitudes towards sexual abuse and the issue has now entered public discourse, with incidents gaining a higher media profile than ever before. The struggle of life in India for women is now receiving the place in the media it deserves. The road will be a long one, but progress is underway.

Much more than I expected, I found myself to be the only woman on the street after sunset. There is still a widely shared view that a woman’s place is her home. Yet, there are great examples of powerful women in India, too. In the above photo, you see the team of Indian female scientists who led India’s first mission to Mars celebrating their success.

Terrorism

It’s not just the airports that require a security check to get in but any Starbucks, McDonalds or hotel in Delhi or Mumbai! After all, India has seen more than its fair share of terrorist incidents. The relationship between India and Pakistan is one wrought with tension, and many tragic incidents have emerged as a result. India itself is also home to some religious/leftist/minority nationalist terrorist groups. India largely blames Pakistan for supporting these groups in terror attacks and others blame the UK or the Indian deep state itself as being behind the rivalries that divide the terrain here. While who is behind the attacks is up for debate, the toll is quite evident and somber.

Terrorism in Figures

Targets can take the form of state buildings, public transport, crowded events (marches, party rallies, celebrations, festivals, etc.), places of worship, bars, restaurants, shopping malls, hotels, and places where foreigners gather. The risk is increased on election days, during foreign ministry meetings, and national holidays such as Diwali, Republic Day (26 January) and Independence Day (15 August).

We were in India during Independence Day, but didn’t attend any events that could be deemed risky. We never felt any consequences of terrorist attacks or threats over the course of our trip. But it pays to stay on the look-out – true for everywhere in the world these days, be it London, Paris, Istanbul or Mumbai. It’s better not to let paranoia get the better of you. After all, life will go on despite these sad affairs.

Religion in India

As we mentioned, around 80% of the country is Hindu. It is important to read up on the basics of the beliefs and value system surrounding Hinduism to avoid ignorant questions or assumptions. After all, many aspects of life in India are informed by its principles. Click on our page covering the basics of Hinduism for a brief overview.

The country has a large number of Muslims, making up 13% of the population, with 2% being Christian (mainly in Kerala, Goa, Tamil Nadu and the Meghalaya region), 2% Sikh, (mainly in Punjab), 1% Buddhist (Maharashtra region), 0.4% Jain (Maharashtra, Rajasthan, and Gujarat regions as well as big cities),  and 1.6% other (Jewish, Zoroastrian, Bahai, and various tribal religions).

Both Jainism and Buddhism emerged as a response to Hinduism, but share many common elements. If 0.4% appears insignificant, don’t forget we are dealing with a country whose population totals around 1.3 billion. Even that tiny percentage represents 5.2 million people. Likewise, the 13% of the population who are Muslim make up the second largest Muslim population in the world!

Indian Food

Social life in India mainly revolves around food. Every occasion is marked by a variety of mouth-watering items. You can ask for food not to be super spicy, but it will never come without spices. I once asked a waiter to just fry up a fish without any spices. The result was much panic for the poor guy – as if there was no other way to cook it!

As we both love spicy food, it was a great pleasure to enjoy the variety of yummy Indian specialties on our first day. The thali and naans did flow. But it can grow to be a bit much after a few weeks, though. If you need a break, you may encounter foreign staples in the big cities, but even these will have an Indian twist to them.

How do pickles, lentils, and rice sound for breakfast? In the big hotels, you may get the option of pancakes or eggs, but in smaller cities, this won’t be an option.

Top Recommendations

Throughout the country, the best vegetarian options usually involve paneer cheese cut up and mixed with a vegetable sauce. Food in the southern part of the country is generally more replete with vegetables. Naan bread needs no introduction, and goes down great with everything. Okra and lentils make some superb main ingredients. Everyone is a great fan of the lentil-based daal.

Our favorite, without a doubt, is a thali combination platter, served with naan and a little rice. It’s basically like tapas, but it does the job. Indian food is so varied and unique that you are sure to survive the best part of two weeks with nothing else.

One thing is for sure, wherever you go it is important to sample the delicacies. When else are you going to get the chance? After all, there’s plenty of time for you to stuff your face with your regular treats when you get home!

A Country of Unbelievable Contradictions

Prepare yourself for a mental meltdown in your attempts to understand life in India. Here are just a couple of examples we had fun trying to comprehend:

• The Ganges is a sacred river. Many believe the water has cleansing properties for the soul. That doesn’t mean it doesn’t also serve as a wonderful place for sewage to end up.
• Sex is still largely taboo. It is not common to even see men and women sitting together in many places. Likewise, skimpy clothing – even spaghetti strap tank tops – are not deemed appropriate.  However, there seems to be no taboo about taking it all out to urinate in public in some places!
• The cow is a sacred animal. And eating beef is a big no no for many, but whipping the animals to get them to pull plows is fine.

Alcohol

Alcohol consumption and possession is illegal in Bihar, Gujarat, Nagaland and the Union Territory of Lakshadweep. Life in India is mainly legislated at a state level. This means states apply their own separate rulings to issues such as alcohol. Thus, while alcohol is a rather luxurious commodity in some states, in Goa it is completely tax-free.

Lie in India under the Raj

Another subject worth dipping into before, or even during your trip, is that of the British Raj. The British spent around 300 years in India and thus had a huge effect on Indian life. They first arrived to set up trade with the Moghul Empire – one of the richest, most powerful empires in the world. They gradually shifted this power dynamic until India represented “the Jewel in the Crown of the British Empire.”

Even a brief introduction to this chapter of history is enlightening in terms of understanding political dynamics, the birth of the modern world, and the consequences of cultural encounters between powerful groups.

Mahatma Gandhi

Mahatma Gandhi is without a doubt the most famous personality to emerge from the Indian subcontinent and is an icon of social justice in his own right. His concept of passive resistance made waves not just in India but across the globe. Protest leaders as far afield as Martin Luther King in America’s civil rights movement to Nelson Mandela in South Africa’s struggle to end apartheid would hold Gandhi’s ideas and actions in high praise.

Six months after the British left India, Gandhi would be assassinated by a Hindu nationalist. Gandhi had a huge effect on Indian life. Many Indians see Gandhi as the “father of the nation,” but he is not popular with everyone.

The reason for this is that Gandhi can not only be seen as a crucial figure in the achievement of Indian independence. He was also a revolutionary who fought tirelessly to eradicate the injustices of India’s long-established caste system.

Make sure you clue yourself in on the man himself before you head out to India. Our article, Who is Gandhi, is certainly worth a peek.

Another Great Personality You Ought to Know: Nehru

Jawaharlal Nehru hasn’t quite achieved the international fame of Mahatma Gandhi but is at least just as admired as a great activist in the promotion of India as an independent, secular, democratic state – and one of the country’s founding fathers. Nehru spent much of his early life fighting British rule together with his mentor Mahatma Gandhi, and spent much time in and out of prison in the process. He ruled India from the time independence was declared in 1947 until his death from a heart attack in 1964.

Nehru’s family had a huge effect on life in India, before and after independence. His father had twice headed the National Congress and his sister would become the first female prime minister present at the United Nations. His daughter Indira would twice take the same office.

Nehru’s history

Like Gandhi, Nehru also studied law in the United Kingdom but was never interested in becoming a lawyer. He entered politics at a young age. Aside from helping achieve Indian independence and establishing the new country as a secular state run via parliament, he also promulgated reforms aimed at improving social conditions for life in India. These included laws regarding female equality and outlawing the caste system…

However, with such a vast and varied political geography, it is impossible for Nehru not to have fallen foul of critics. Many point to his agreement to divide former British India into India and Pakistan – a separate state for Muslims, as an unconscionable stance. Critics also point to his recognition of Communist China (India being the first state to do so), as a poor decision given China would soon enough capture Indian territory in the Himalayas.

The Controversial Leader Indira Gandhi

Indira Gandhi was not in fact related to Mahatma Gandhi. Indira Priyadarshini was the daughter of former president Nehru but coincidently went on to marry a Parsi husband with the surname Gandhi.

Nehru was loved throughout and beyond India. Due to his popularity with Indians, it was largely considered that Indira Gandhi would be primed to continue the work that her father had done throughout his time in office. Although she served in office twice from 1966-77 and from 1980-84, Indira Gandhi did not prove quite so popular.

Victories and Controversies

Her economic and agricultural reforms had a great effect on Indian life. Meanwhile, her diplomatic moves were key to bringing about a peaceful resolution to the conflict with East and West Pakistan. However, her  uncompromising manner and a string of scandals wrought the ire of many Indians against Indira Gandhi.

In 1978, she was imprisoned for improper conduct during elections and for using public resources during the campaign. However, the even more dismal failure of her replacements in office led to her return to power by 1980.

She was killed in 1984 by two Sikh bodyguards in response to the awful damage inflicted on an important Sikh holy site during a military operation backed by Gandhi.

Indira Gandhi’s son Rajiv Gandhi took over from his mother after her death, but himself fell victim to an assassination in 1989.

The Indian Capital: New Delhi

New Delhi is home to a population of over 26 million and is the second most populated city in the world. After Mumbai, the capital is the second richest city in the country, home to 18 billionaires and 23,000 millionaires.

Like our home town of Istanbul, the city has formed the center of numerous empires and still forms the seat of the Indian government. Also, like our hometown, traffic here is intense, but the city is generally better maintained than Mumbai. If you are planning a trip, then check out our article on Delhi.

Indian form of Government

According to its constitution, India is an “independent, socialist, secular republic” and is ruled via the parliamentary system.

As India covers an expansive and varied area, the state is administered along state lines. India is made up of 29 states and 7 union territories. The central state manages issues regarding international affairs and the economy, while domestic affairs relating to Indian life are generally handled on a state level. Each state sets its own laws regarding health, education, and social initiatives. This is why alcohol, for instance, can be illegal in one place and not in another.

What Language is Spoken in India?

• India is home to over 1,600 different languages!
• 22 of these languages are recognized as official: Assamese, Bengali, Bodo, Dogri, Gujarati, Kannada, Kashmiri, Konkani, Maithili, Malayalam, Meitei, Marathi, Nepali, Oriya, Punjabi, Sanskrit, Santali, Sindhi, Tamil, Telugu, Urdu, Brahui.
• The most commonly spoken languages are Hindi and English.
• English emerged as a lingua franca for Indian life, thus many TV programs and newspapers are in English. Most Indians are educated in their local language during primary school and are taught in English from the 5th grade on.

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Önemli Duyuru Önümüzdeki günlerde 2 kişilik 9 ülke gezmeli Kuzey Avrupa Turu hediye edeceğiz! Kaçırmamak için mutlaka bildirimlerinizi açın,arkadaşlarınıza haber verin! Bildirimleri fotonun üstündeki 3 noktadan açabilirsiniz. Gelelim bu cennet köşesine. Burası Kerala, bu da bizim houseboat’umuz. Nilüferlerin içinden, palmiye fışkıran kanalların arasından Hindistan’ın en büyük gölüne gidiyorsunuz. Herşey çok güzel ama o kargalar çok fenalar. Az bi dalgınlığınıza geldi mi masaya pike yapıp yemeklere dalıyorlar. Köşede seni kesen bir karga, böyle ürke ürke masada yemek yiyorsun. Zekiler, kindarlar ve uzun ömürlüler, insanın gözünün içine bakıyorlar falan ya ben geriliyorum. Biraz da Hitchcock’un Kargalar filmi psikolojimle oynamış olabilir tabi. #yarışma #kerala #houseboating #india #hindistan #doğa #bizevdeyokuz #evdeoturanerkenölür

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We tried to keep it as simple as we can. As you can tell we are outsiders trying to understand what Hinduism is. If you think we over-simplified or misinterpreted anything please feel free to correct us.

Religion in India

India is home to several religions, but the most common is Hinduism at 80% of the population.

Hinduism is the third-most widespread religion in the world after Islam and Christianity and it is thought to be the oldest religion in the world dating back at least 5,000 years ago. It is believed to be older, but there’s no definitive proof.

Nepal and Bangladesh also have significant Hindu populations as well. Traditions and rituals vary from region to region. In this article, we’ll briefly summarize the most essential points about Hinduism without going into too much detail.

Let’s take a look at the distribution of religion in India:

– 80% of the population is Hindu. Other religions include (the percentages are rounded):
– 13% Islam (The Muslim population is spread throughout the country)
– 2% Christianity (in Kerala, Goa, Tamil Nadu and Meghalaya)
– 2% Sikhism, (Punjab region)
– 1% Buddhist (in the Maharashtra area)
– 0.4% Jainism (in the regions of Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Gujarat, and major cities)
– 1.6% Other (Judaism, Zoroastrianism, Bahá’í, tribal religions).

Jainism and Buddhism formed in response to Hinduism, but all three have similar teachings.

When looking at these percentages, keep in mind that while 0.4% may seem like an insignificant number but when you consider that fact that India has a population of 1.3 billion, it amounts to a huge number of people. 5.2 million to be exact

What is Hinduism

Hinduism is a mystical religion that has no books and no prophets, but followers believe the Brahman as a creative power – everything comes from and goes back to Brahman.

God in Hinduism

Because there are so many gods and goddesses in Hinduism, it’s often perceived as a polytheistic religion. However, followers believe that Brahman is the only god and that the other gods are different manifestations of him.

These are the gods that you’ll often hear about in association with Hinduism:

– Brahman – creator of the universe
– Vishnu – God of keeping the universe in balance and harmony. Vishnu shows himself in different forms based on the situation, and he takes many different forms such as Rama, Krishna, and Sarasvati.
– Shiva – God of destruction. Followers believe that the universe was destroyed by Shiva from time to time and created again by Brahman. Cycles are a significant symbol for Hindus.
– Ganesha – God who lifts barriers and brings luck. Ganesha is depicted as having an elephant face and a human body.

Basic beliefs in Hinduism

– Vedas is the equivalent of the holy books: While there is no holy book, there is a doctrine known as the Vedas that has been transmitted orally generation by generation for 5,000 years. Hindus believe that the Vedas is the promise of God that came through revelation. Although the Vedas has different interpretations, there are a few important beliefs that are common amongst all Hindus:

– Truth is timeless, infinite, and unique. But the truth can be expressed in different ways and can be reached by using different methods. This belief is one of the main reasons why Hinduism is perceived as an inclusive and tolerant religion. Because, from a Hindu’s point of view, there are endless ways of worshipping, and all of them are valid. What matters is the intention not the method. In this way, they see that all religions are valid ways of reaching God.

Although there has been some division over this issue among Hindus, “unity in diversity” became a widely accepted concept  in contemporary Hinduism.

– Brahman as no form, it is limitless, infinite, and omnipresent. It may sound as Brahman is an abstract concept, but it is rather treated as a body that includes everything, the whole realm, inside it.

– Dharma is “the moral order of the universe and a code of living that embodies the fundamental principles of law, religion, and duty that governs all reality”. According to drahma, every individual has a duty and she/he has to make sure it happens. (Read more here)

– The pursuit of dharma allows humanity to get to the higher truth, and the person who arrives here reaches moksha (like nirvana).

– Atman is the immortal soul; in other words, the soul cannot be created or destroyed.

– They believe in reincarnation, and the soul continues to come back to the world again and again until the soul reaches maturity (or reaches moksha).

Reincarnation is not really something desirable, each soul strives to get liberated from the cycle of reincarnation. Liberation only happens when a soul matures enough to reach moksha. Then a soul can escape the cycle and be one with Brahman.

So what is desired is breaking the cycle of reincarnation and integrate with Brahman. Followers of Hinduism believe that if they die in the holy city of Varanasi, then they will be liberated from reincarnation. For this reason, many elderly or sick people go to Varanasi and wait to die there. It’s a very interesting place to see in India.

– Followers think that their body and the circumstances of their life are a result of karma from their past lives. In other words, everyone creates their own destiny.

– Hindus believe that all life and living things are sacred. One of the most admirable principles of Hinduism in the west is that all living things are sacred therefore they should not be harmed (also known as ahimsa). According to ahimsa, all living beings deserve love and respect.

In Jainism, this is so important that they don’t eat plants such as root vegetables and lettuce as doing so would be killing the plant and the microorganisms which live off of it.

Prophecy in Hinduism

Rishis are people who can reach divine truths and who can act as a bridge between gods and people. However, the concept of prophecy is different in Hinduism; prophets are not special people chosen by God. People whose souls have matured through reincarnation can get in touch with god and can provide people with divine truths.

Some Hindu Practices Converting

Caste System

The most well-known and controversial aspect of Hinduism is the caste system, which divides society into four hierarchies of professions.

From the second that someone is born, they are assigned a place in society, which dictates where they can work, which social areas they are able to interact in, and with whom they can marry.

People are expected to obey the life set and the duties that have been assigned to their caste. If someone doesn’t follow the rules, then this is considered immoral.

1st Caste Brahmans – This caste is made up of religious clergyman. They are at the top of the hierarchy.
2nd Caste Kshatriya – This is a class of warriors and rulers (kings and princes. Their duty is to protect the clergymen and serve the faithful.
3rd Caste Vaishya – Vaishya caste is made up of merchants, and it’s their duty to ensure the economy remains running. In modern times, this is business people and bosses of industry.
4th Caste Shudra – This is the labor and servant caste, and their mission is to serve the other three castes.

And then there are the untouchables, who are seen as not being worthy of being included in the caste system, and they do all the jobs that are seen as being “dirty” such as cleaning toilets.

Click here for more information on India.

Karma

Karma is the belief that all the good or bad you do in life will return to you.

In Hinduism, karma does not just follow you in this life, but it also affects you in the next life. As we are traveling throughout India, we saw extreme examples of poverty and wealth side by side. How it’s fair that millions live on the street right next to a 27-story house that hosts a family of only six people? I could not help but wonder why people do not revolt. I was explained that they accept their situation as a result of their karma, something they call upon themselves. They think they must have done something in their past life to deserve their current life.

Meat and Alcohol

When it comes to setting rules, Hinduism has a soft approach. There are no banes or prohibitions, instead, there are suggestions to help increase your karma and warnings about what could hurt your karma. While alcohol and meat consumption is not forbidden, but it’s not recommended. Because of the principle of “do no harm,” many Hindus are vegetarians.

Holy Cows

In Hinduism, all animals are sacred, but cows are a notch above other animals. This is because cows and humans are intimately connected. Cow manure is plastered on the walls of houses, used as isolation in the roofs and as fuel in the kitchen. Milk and dairy products are very important for Indian cuisine, so the cow is a sacred animal. Even though the consumption of chicken, lamb, and fish is widespread among non-vegetarian Hindus, beef is off the limits.

Indian Astrology (Vedic Astrology)

We also wanted to briefly mention Indian astrology as it’s an important belief among Indians today.

Indian astrology is similar to western astrology as it deals with planets and starts, but the method of calculation and analysis differs. Western astrology looks at the nature and character of the person, but Indian astrology is more focused on significant events in someone’s life, and there is a dimension of fortune telling.

Interestingly, Indian astrology informs about every aspect of life. While considering a potential candidate for marriage, astrological compatibility is taken into account. People look at astrology to decide what to wear the following day, and astrology even determined when Indian independence day should be. Even though India was free from the Brits on August 14, because it was astrologically better to be the following day, Independence Day is celebrated on the 15th.

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Hope we are able to shed some light your questions about what Hinduism is and what Hindus believe in. Please feel free to

The post RELIGION IN INDIA – WHAT IS HINDUISM AND WHAT HINDUS BELIEVE appeared first on Biz Evde Yokuz.

Udaipur is known as the Venice of the East and India’s city of lakes. Some parts of Octopussy, the 1983’s hit Bond movie, was filmed here.

It has everything you need for a Bond movie; an exotic culture, classy palaces and romantic settings for the biggest heartbreaker of all times. Here is a clip from Octopussy to refresh your memory:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zbl3n2qQ-iQ

You’ll only need to set aside one day, as the two most important things to do in Udaipur are to take a boat trip up the Pichola River and to explore the City Palace.

Before we dive into things to do in Udaipur, let’s stop at some things you should know before coming to India:

Note:
Before departing for your trip to India, we definitely recommend reading the following two articles:
– Our Life in India Guide (General information about the country: what kind of place is it for travelers, religion, caste system, misconceptions about cleanliness and everything you need to know before you go)
– Our India Travel Guide (budget, route, alerts, as well as suggestions and preparation tips before you go)

THINGS TO DO IN UDAIPUR

Click here to view a map on Google Maps

If you find yourself rushing from one place to the other, you need to consider sacrificing one of the sights to enjoy others. If that comes to be the case, we suggest you drop Monsoon Palace of your list because it is far away from the rest of the things to do in Udaipur and there is not much to see.

If it still feels too tight, you can also skip Jagat Singh Temple. It is a very nice place to see but you can take some comfort in thinking you are traveling through India, you visit tons of temples anyways.

The big must on the itinerary

City Palace

Measuring at a length of 224 meters and a height of 30 meters, the City Palace is the largest in Rajasthan province and the most popular of the things to do in Udaipur. The palace is a masterpiece with its intricately decorated domes, towers and balconies.

Construction on the palace began during the rule of Udai Singh II, who founded the city, but every Maharana added something, which is noticeable in the architecture.

The entrance of the palace is through a gated and arched road. There are two gates: the first is called Bari Pol and was made in 1600 and the second is called Tripolia Pol, constructed in 1725. During the reign of the Maharanas, the arched entrance was weighed, and the weight in gold was distributed to the people.

You’ll be able to find the ticket office at this point, and you can buy an audio guide for 200 rupees here. If you prefer, you can get a tour guide for 100-150 Rupees.

Touring the palace

Checking out the palace is one of the top things to do in Udaipur, so it’s good to have an idea what’s there. The best places of the palace are exhibited within the City Palace Museum, where you’ll also be able to see the peacock mosaics. An adult ticket is 50 rupees and 30 for children, but it’s 200 rupees if you want to take pictures. It’s open between 9:30 am – 4:30 pm.

You’ll pass through the Ganesh Deori which is decorated with Japanese ceramics to get to the Raj Aangan, which is the oldest structure in the palace and is considered the King’s Courtyard. It’s been said that this is where a monk told the city’s founder Udai Singh to build a city.

In the Badi Mahal, there is a pool in the middle of a marble courtyard built in the Babur style. From the miniature paintings in the area, it seems as if this place was used as an entertainment area for the royal family in ancient times, particularly during the Holi festival.

The Dilkhush Mahal, which was built in the 1620s, has two rooms with doors made out of ivory and images that portrayed hunting scenes. The palace’s armory is now a museum that displays a collection of Rajput weapons such as arrows, shields, ceremonial scepters and war drums.

In 1877, Maharana Sajjan Singh ordered rare crystals from England but, unfortunately, he died before they arrived. The crystals were forgotten for about 110 years, but they are now on the mezzanine floor of the Fatehpraksh Palace in the Durbar Hall. Click here for the location.

Boat Tour on Lake Pichola

The second most popular thing to do in Udaipur is visiting Lake Pichola.

Like Jodhpur, Udaipur was founded in 1559 in the Marwar region, and it’s known for the remains of its old city walls on the eastern side of the lake. Lake Pichola is 4 km long and 3 km wide. There are also two islands on the lake: Jagmandir and Janiwas, which is where the Lake Palace was built.

Because it’s shallow, the river water often dries up during a drought, but it divides Udaipur into two. The City Palace is located on the eastern side of the lake. You’ll be able to see people on the northern side of the palace washing themselves and doing laundry in the lake, which is quite a sight.

When we went, there was construction work underway to build a path alongside the river for walking or cycling – once constructed these will surely be fun things to do in Udaipur as well!

A 30-minute boat trip on Lake Pichola is 100 rupees for children and 200 for adults. If you want to take a longer trip for an hour, then it’s 150 for children and 300 for adults. The boats depart every 30 minutes from the breakwater at the City Palace between 9:30 am – 5:00 pm. This is the lake’s deepest spot.

The longer boat tour goes to Jagmandir Island. There is a company called MM Travels that offers a trip on a motorboat or a paddle boat. Twenty minutes on the paddle boat is 75 rupees, and 20 minutes on the motorboat is 450 rupees. These boats depart from Lal Ghat (Lal Gate) next to the Jagat Niwas Hotel.

Lake Palace

The Lake Palace located on Jagniwas Island in Lake Pichola was the setting for James Bond’s film “Octopussy.” Experiencing a bit of the Bond atmosphere and dining at the palace are both exciting things to do in Udaipur.

The palace was built in 1754 as Jagat Singh’s summer house, but it now operates as a luxury hotel. If you’re not a customer of the hotel, then you can only go by reserving lunch or dinner in advance at its Neel Kamal Restaurant (see its details in the below What To Eat section). Some boats leave from the breakwater in front of the City Palace to the island. Click here for the location.

Monsoon Palace

This palace is famous for its wonderful view of the city. The palace built by Sajjan Singh in the late 19th century and was originally designed as a sort of observation tower to identify monsoon clouds, but was later used as a hunting lodge.

It is currently under state control, but there is nothing to see in it. As far as being a part of our list of things to do in Udaipur, it is mostly used as a viewpoint to watch the sunset. Click here for the location.

Jagdish Temple

Located only 150 meters from the City Palace, this sacred temple was built by Jagat Singh II in 1651. Open 2 pm, 4 pm – 10:30 pm. Click here for the location.

We suggest you read about Religion in India and What Hinduism is here.

SHOPPING IN UDAIPUR

Vegetable & Fruit Market

The vegetable-fruit market of Udaipur has sellers who are predominantly women. Here, you’ll be able to find anything and everything you need, as well as discover certain fruits and vegetables you’ve never seen before! Who knew one of the things to do in Udaipur would be a scavenger hunt We can guarantee the market will offer some colorful photo opportunities. Click here for the location.

The Miniature Artist Family

Don’t let the fact that we listed miniature in the shopping section misguide you into thinking it is just an opportunity to decorate your home. Indeed, it is one of the most important things to do in Udaipur along with visiting the City Palace and Pichola Lake.

The miniature art of “Pichhwai” has been practiced by the same family members for generations.  Today, the most famous miniature artist continues this art form with the support of the princes themselves.

The artist uses brushes made out of fur from a squirrel’s tail or a camel’s eyelashes for the miniatures, each of which is finely crafted and can take months to complete. So miniatures are among the most precious things you can buy while in India.

Some pieces of work might be expensive as they are big and have tons of details, but you can find something within your price range. If you’re willing to negotiate, then you can even work your way down to 50%. We did our shopping at Brahma Arts & Textiles.

Address: Manak Chowk City Palace 313001. Tel: 0091 2942422842. Click here for the location.

Ganesh Handicraft Emporium

This is the best place to go to if you are tired of shopping in a bazaar and would like to shop without being crowded or hassled. As the name implies, this is a shop that specializes in traditional Indian handicrafts. Website. Click here for the location.

Bada Bazaar

This is Udaipur’s main market, where you’ll be able to find handbags, wallets, sandals, silver and camel bone jewelry, and textiles from Rajasthan at reasonable prices. Click here for the location.

WHAT TO EAT IN UDAIPUR

Eating well is a major factor in our enjoyment of a place. Below, you’ll be able to read our recommendation about where to eat in Udaipur, but we’ve compiled another article about where to eat in India.

Neel Kamal Restaurant

This is a fine-dining restaurant located in the Taj Hotel at the Lake Palace. You’ll need to make a reservation before going, but it’s definitely a luxe experience as far as things to do in Udaipur. This restaurant is a great example of nobility with its elegant decorations.

It has Udaipur royal dishes on the menu and features live classical music. There are boats specifically for the island and the restaurant that leave the port in front of the City Palace.

Address: Taj Lake Palace. Tel: +91 294 242 8800. Click here for the location.

Upré by 1559 AD

Located inside the Pichola Hotel, this is a terrace restaurant that has views of Udaipur’s historical skyline, including the City Palace and Lake Palace. Here, you’ll be able to find both local and international cuisine while enjoying a calm and relaxing atmosphere.

Address: Lake Pichola Hotel, outside Chandpole, Near Hanuman Ghat. Website. Tel: +91 294 243 1197. Click here for the location.

Savage Garden

If experiencing some lesser-known hipster sites is on your list of things to do in Udaipur, then this spot is for you. Small, minimalist and blue, they are famous for their soups, homemade pasta and stuffed chicken with sweet and sour sauce. They also have homemade Indian wine.

Address: 22 Inside Chandpole. Tel: +91 294 242 5440. Click here for the location.

Udai Art Café

This is one of Udaipur’s hip cafes. This is the best place to find coffee in Udaipur, and it’s run by a Greek photographer who came to India as a tourist and decided to settle down. You’ll also be able to find crepes, omelets, grilled cheese and sandwiches here.

Address: Gangor Ghat Road, Lal Ghat Intersection, Near Jagdish Temple. Website. Phone: +91 294 512 0789. Click here for the location.

ACCOMMODATION IN UDAIPUR

Taj Lake Palace

If you want the ultimate experience when it comes to luxurious things to do in Udaipur – though it’s a bit expensive to stay in the city’s most magnificent and elegant building – it’s worth it. Click here for more details and to make a reservation

Udai Kothi

This hotel has received a lot of international acclaim. It was voted by the New York Times as the best wedding venue, by the National Geographic Traveller as the hotel with the best boutique restaurant in India, and ranked 21 by UrbanNista & Co as having one of the world’s sexiest rooftop pools. Click here for more details and to make a reservation

goStops Udaipur

An affordable hostel in Udaipur for backpackers. Click here for more details and to make a reservation

Other Accommodation Options

Click here for other hotel options in Udaipur.

WHERE IS UDAIPUR?

Udaipur is one of the cities in Rajasthan province in central India. It is located in India’s northwest and is southwest of New Delhi. The closest major cities are Jodhpur and Jaipur.

Udaipur is located,

260 km from Jodhpur, about 4 hours and 43 minutes by car,
393 kilometers from Jaipur, about 6 hours and 20 minutes by train,
632 kilometers from Agra, about 10 hours and 35 minutes by car,
651 kilometers from New Delhi, about 11 hours and 9 minutes by car,
760 kilometers from Mumbai, about 12 hours and 43 minutes by train.

TRANSPORT TO UDAIPUR

There aren’t that many direct flights to Udaipur from European cities, which is why it might be a better idea to first fly to a major city in India and then make your way to Udaipur. If you are flying from New Delhi to Udaipur, you can fly directly with a flight from IndiGo, Jet Airways or Air India, which will take about 1 hour and 15 minutes.

For those who want to go by train, the Chetak Express and express train from Delhi S Rohilla Station in New Delhi takes about 12 hours and 10 minutes.

 _ . _
Hope you enjoyed our list of things to do in Udaipur. For our other city guides, you can check our India Travel Guide. 

The post THINGS TO DO IN UDAIPUR IN 24 HOURS (JAMES BOND WAS FILMED HERE!) appeared first on Biz Evde Yokuz.

When the city was founded by Roa Jodha, who was the ruler of the Rathore Dynasty, in 1459, it was called Marwar, meaning the city of death. Today it is hard to see where that inspiration came from as Jodhpur is bustling with life and color.

In this blog, we will guide you through the top things to do in Jodhpur and share some useful tips on how to plan your visit to Jodphur.

GOOD TO KNOW

How much time should I spare for visiting Jodphur?

If you don’t have a lot of time and want to be efficient with your time, then setting aside one day should be enough to visit Jodhpur. But if you wish to do more aside from wandering around the shops and taking photos, then consider allocating two days.

Marwar Festival

Every year in October is the Marwar Festival in Jodhpur, where music and dance performances commemorate the Rajasthan heroes. Just keep in mind that your trip might coincide with a festival or celebration.

If you’re planning to do the Golden Triangle

A tour circuit called the “Golden Triangle” includes cities most preferred by the tourists: the capital Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. The cities make a triangle on the map. Jaipur is the capital of the Rajasthan province, so it’s easy to add on Jodhpur if making this route.

 HOW TO PLAN YOUR TRIP TO INDIA

– Our Life in India Guide (General information about the country: what kind of place is it for travelers, religion, caste system, misconceptions about cleanliness and everything you need to know before you go)
– Our India Travel Guide (budget, route, alerts, as well as suggestions and preparation tips before you go)

PLACES TO SEE: A JODHPUR ITINERARY

Click here to open Google Maps.

If you have only 1 day: Better prioritize the blue streets, Mihrangarh Castle and Tunwarji Ka Jhalra. Also it is really worth going to the Maharani Art Exporters if you want to do some shopping.

The Best of Things To Do in Jodhpur: Old Town Center Covered in Blue

Everything on the streets in the center of the old town is covered in blue. Why, you may ask? Different opinions are floating about, but take it from us Turks: the general view in the Aegean is that blue window frames prevent mosquitoes from entering the house.

Another point of view is that in the past, the Hindu priests who were former members of higher castes painted their homes blue to differentiate them from people in other castes. In time, everyone began painting their houses blue. Even though we might not know the exact reason, the blueness of the city makes it truly unique and the colors really come alive at sunset.

We suggest you read about Religion in India and What Hinduism is here.

Mehrangarh Castle

This is the most important building in the city and, at the same time, it allows you to have the best view of the blue. We took this article’s main photo from the castle We advise you to plan for Mehrangarh Castle as the last stop of the day of things to do in Jodhpur, as the colors are much better in the evening hours. (Desert colors are dimmed a bit in sunlight.)

The castle, which is 125 meters high, has become a symbol of the city. It’s also one of India’s biggest castles. Although it looks like it’s made of wood, everything aside from its shutters are made of stone. A fun tidbit: A scene from “The Black Knight Rises” was shot here.

The Gates of Mehrangarh

The castle’s construction began in 1459 during the reign of Rao Jodha. There are seven gates you’ll have to pass through before you can enter the castle. When you reach the fifth gate, you can see traces left by bullets.

The last gate is from the 15th century and has 15 handprints belonging to the wives of the maharaja. The reason behind these handmarks is a bit creepy, as they were left behind before the wives immolated themselves on the maharaja’s funeral pyre in a long-banned practice known as “sati.”

Since there have been several additions to the castle for centuries, there are small palaces that are connected to each other in the castle, and there are many courtyards that link them together. It’s quite a complex structure. One of the most exciting museums in India is the castle museum, which displays the thrones of the royal families that ruled Jodhpur.

Entrance fee: 600 Rupees with an audio guide, 400 Rupees for students. You’ll have to pay an extra 200 Rupees to take videos and 100 Rupees to take a photo. The castle is open every day between 9 am and 5 pm. Address: The Fort, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, 342006. Website. Phone: +91 291 254 8790. Click here for the location.

Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park

Just below the Mehrangarh Castle is a 72-hectare park that used to be drylands. The park isn’t very old and was established in 2006. It was opened to the public in 2011. Here, you’ll be able to see natural sandstone, which is the material mainly used to construct buildings in India.

At the park, you’ll also see a plant hospital where endemic plants are maintained, and you can walk around four routes with an audio guide. Open 7 am – 6:30 pm between April and September and 8 am – 5:30 pm from October to March. Entry is 200 Rupees. Renting a guide is 200 Rupees. Website. Tel: +43 1 521510. Click here for the location.

Umaid Bhawan Palace

This massive building was finished in 1929 through the work of 3,000 people, and it took 15 years to complete. A part of this palace was built in the name of Maharaja Umaid Singh, who died in 1947. Parts of the palace have been transformed into a luxury hotel and a small museum.

The interior of the hotel is designed in a beautiful art-deco style, but they do not allow visitors to enter the hotel as tourists, so remember that when including this on your list of things to do in Jodhpur.

Alternatively, if you come to eat at the hotel’s restaurant, then you’ll be able to check out the inside. Don’t miss out on the classic car collection lined up on the lawns in front of the king’s museum. Entry to the museum is 50 Rupees. Open between 9 am – 5 pm.

Address: Circuit House Rd, Cantt Area, Jodhpur, Rajasthan. Website. Click here for the location.

Jodhpur Clock Tower (Ghanta Ghar)

This clock tower is one of the most important symbols of the city. It’s located in the most crowded part of Jodhpur and is surrounded by markets. It’s at the intersection of the Nai Sarak and Sardar Bazaar, and was built by Maharaja Sardar Singh.

Address: Nai Sarak, Ghantaghar Market, Jodhpur, Rajasthan. Click here for the location.

Historical Sardar Market

Located right next to the Clock Tower, here you’ll be able to find plenty of things to do in Jodhpur, from buying spices to sampling street food, to checking out leather goods to purchasing jewelry made from silver as well as local handicrafts. Don’t forget to bargain with sellers! Consider it as part of the market experience.

Jaswant Thada

This ornate monumental tomb made of white marble is a perfect contrast to the castle in the foreground. It was built in 1899 by Maharaja Sardar Singh in memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh. It is still in use for cremation by the royal family. Entry is 30 Rupees, and it’s 25 Rupees to take pictures. Open from 9 am to 5 pm.

Address: Lawaran, Jodhpur, Rajasthan 342001. Click here for the location.

Mandore Gardens

These are gardens full of temples located 9 kilometers north of Jodhpur. During the 6th century, when the Gurjara-Pratiharas Dynasty was in power, Mandore was the capital of a region called Marwar. Later, King Rao of the Rathore Dynasty moved the capital to Jodhpur.

Here, you’ll be able to find small temples, monuments, rock terraces and museums. If you don’t have a lot of time, it’s something you can leave off your itinerary, but it still makes for a more relaxing experience when it comes to things to do in Jodhpur. Click here for the location.

Tunwarji Ka Jhalra

You probably remember this a fascinating structure from popular Instagram posts. This step well was restored after it was being used as a landfill. The clean water that was added to the place now has fish, and there is a cafe here where you can sit and enjoy the scenery. It’s definitely one of the unexpected treasures and things to do in Jodhpur, and in India!

Address: Gulab Sagar, Jodhpur, Rajasthan 342001. Click here for the location.

SHOPPING IN JODHPUR

When you visit Jodhpur, there will be tons of places to shop such as the Sadar Bazaar, Sojati Gate, Station Street, Tripolia Market and Nai Sarak Street. You’ll be able to buy a variety of things such as handmade silk slippers, old furniture, silver jewelry and, of course, colorful silk Indian textiles.

If you’re interested in buying fabric, since it’s one of the popular things to do in Jodhpur, then we recommend Maharani Art Exporters. The man who owns the shop manufactures for the world’s most famous haute-couture brands. The prices are reasonable since they’re at the manufacturer’s price. I would have stayed there forever, but Bilgehan had to practically drag me out. Tambuju Bazaar, maharanitextile@gmail.com, +91 291 265 3152.

WHAT TO EAT WHEN YOU VISIT JODHPUR

You might be hesitant to eat freely in India, and you would be wise to be so. However, you can (mostly) avoid getting sick as we did by being careful about what you eat. When it comes to things to do in Jodhpur, we have to talk about what and where to eat!

While you are here, we recommned you try to specialities of this region such as kadhi (chickpea flour curry), panchkuta (a dried bean stir-fry), gulab jamun (fried dough soaked in syrup) and namkeen (savory & sweet “chips”). You can find them in some of the restaurants below.

Indique

This is a rooftop restaurant located in the Pal Haveli Hotel, which was a mansion that dates back to the 18th century. The restaurant has a romantic atmosphere and a view of the castle, Umaid Bhawan and the Clock Tower. The menu is filled with choices from northern Indian cuisine, including tandoori, biryani, buttered chicken and rogan josh. Main courses cost between 85 and 200 Rupees. Open between 7 am – 11 pm.

Address: Pal Haveli, Opp.Clock Tower Near, Gulab Sagar, Jodhpur, Rajasthan. Website. Tel: +91 291 263 8344. Click here for the location.

Neem Tree Court – On The Rocks

This is a family-owned business that offers a refreshing environment. It’s famous for its tandoori and Mongolian dishes. There is also a bar where you can have a pre-dinner cocktail and enjoy music and snacks, which are fun things to do in Jodhpur, or anywhere really. Website. Address: Ajit Bhawan Near Circuit House, National Highway 65, Ajit Colony, Ajit Colony, Jodhpur. Tel: +91 291 251 2701. Click here for the location.

Gypsy

WHERE TO STAY IN JODHPUR

We would like to share with you the hotels we enjoyed for when you visit Jodhpur, but please remember that the service sector in India is still developing and there will be shortcomings. Also, you should know that winter in Jodhpur gets quite cold, and the best hotels don’t offer heating. So pack your clothes accordingly if you want to take in all the great things to do in Jodhpur the city has to offer.

The Ajit Bhawan Palace ($$)

This a modernly furnished hotel with a historic feel as it dates back to 1927. This is one of the most comfortable options you’ll be able to find when you visit Jodhpur. The airport is only five kilometers away, and you can arrange for a service to pick you up from the airport. There is a café, a bar and a restaurant that serves food from around the world. It is also has a spa and massage service. Click here for detailed information and to make a reservation.

Pal Haveli ($$)

This is one of the most beautiful places you can stay in while you’re in Jodhpur. We’ve also recommended the hotel’s restaurant in the above section. Mehrangarh Castle is only 600 meters away.  Click here for detailed information and to make a reservation.

Suraj Haveli ($)

This hotel is located one kilometer away from Mehrangarh Castle, and it has a beautiful terrace with mountain views. The hotel itself is clean, and the staff is accommodating. You’ll also get a lot for the amount you pay. Click here for detailed information and to make a reservation.

WHERE IS JODHPUR?

Jodhpur is a city in Rajasthan province located in central India. It is the second-largest city in the province. Located in India’s northwest, it is southwest of New Delhi. Due to sunny weather and the stunningly blue homes, it’s often referred to as the “Blue City” or “Sun City.”

Jodhpur is located:

335 kilometers from Jaipur, or about 5 hours and 10 minutes by train,
574 kilometers from Agra, or about 10 hours and 50 minutes by train,
593 kilometers from New Delhi, or about 11 hours and 15 minutes by train,
984 kilometers from Mumbai, or about 16 hours and 40 minutes by train.

GETTING TO JODHPUR

Before ticking off things to do in Jodhpur, you might be hard-pressed to find direct international flights into the city. The most logical route is to fly into Delhi and then reach Jodhpur by train.

TRAIN

The Golden Triangle that we mentioned at the beginning of the article starts from Delhi and continues onto Agra and ends in Rajasthan. The Shatabdi Express connects Delhi with Agra and Jaipur, making it a favorite route.

The Ranthambore Express train takes 5 hours, 10 minutes from Jaipur to Jodhpur,
The Chetak Express takes 9 hours, 10 minutes from Delhi to Jodhpur,
The Express Train takes 10 hours, 25 minutes from Agra to Jodhpur,
and the Vivek Express train takes 16 hours and 15 minutes from Mumbai to Jodhpur.

An extra note: Tuk-tuks or rickshaws here are called “tempo.” Every journey offers a different experience. I can’t count the number of times I thought we were going to crash into something, but we never did.

 _ . _
Hope you enjoyed our list of things to do in Jodhpur. For our other city guides, you can check our India Travel Guide.

The post THE BLUE CITY OF INDIA – THINGS TO DO IN JODHPUR appeared first on Biz Evde Yokuz.

Before visiting, I pondered this question for a while. As the capital of India, I assumed Delhi might be typically dull and bureaucratic. Plus, it’s distance far from the sea didn’t look appealing. Mumbai, on the other hand, is by water and has excellent weather. Mumbai also acts as the headquarters for many foreign companies and is the business hub of the entire region. That being the case, my answer was clear.

Well, I was wrong. Delhi is India’s most modern and stylish city. Although it falls behind Mumbai concerning wealth, Delhi is better-kept in comparison – purely as it is constantly under the watch of the country’s presidents and prime ministers who live here. At the same time, all the best fashion designers, the most stylish places, and the best galleries are located in Delhi.

Delhi is an exciting place that dispels the notion of India as a place simply “steeped in tradition”. As we traveled around the country and saw the living standard among the population, we couldn’t stop wondering comparatively about the lives of the country’s rich and famous. So we dug into it and shared findings on Delhi glamour with you below.

Equally interesting to us, is that Delhi also has an unusual amount of  Turkishness in its DNA. Turks came here for the first time in the 1200s before the city fell under the control of the Afghans. Years later, the Mughals, a Turkic-Mongol empire, ruled here and made Delhi their capital between 1649-1857. It soon became a center of Sufism, the dominant strand of Muslim belief in India.

The Big Smoke

There is something else we should mention before going forward: when you’re in Delhi, you’ll experience the worst traffic of your life, and you’ll have no choice but to breathe in the toxic air. Pollution is so severe that planes are sometimes redirected for poor visibility. Air pollution here is some of the worst in the world, and if you’re sensitive, you’ll probably experience chronic headaches. As we mentioned in our Life In India article, spending one day in Delhi is the same as smoking 50 cigarettes.

So we recommend that you stay in Delhi for only a day and then move on to your next location. Of course, there are countless things to do in Delhi, but it’s wiser to spare as many days as possible for Rajasthan at large. We would even venture to say that if you don’t have a lot of time, then you can skip Delhi altogether, although there is still much fun to be had.

Important Note:
Before departing for your trip to India, we recommend reading the following two articles:
– Life In India (What kind of place is it, is it dirty, religion, caste system, and everything you need to know before you go)
– India Travel Guide (budget, route, alerts, as well as suggestions and preparation before you go)

For those of you who don’t have a lot of time in India, we recommend doing the Golden Triangle tourism circuit, which includes Jaipur & Agra.

KNOW YOUR GEOGRAPHY

New Delhi and Delhi are not the same things. New Delhi is the capital of the country and where the parliament is located. Delhi is the general name of the large metropolitan zone that covers New Delhi and other areas.

Important places in New Delhi:
– India Gate (India Gate)
– Humayun’s Tomb
– Connaught Place
– Janpath Market
– Khan Market
– Gandhi Samadhi (Gandhi’s Mausoleum)

Old Delhi was founded by the Mughals in 1639 and was the old center of the city. Old Delhi is cramped and chaotic while New Delhi is clean and spacious. Things here:
– Red Fort (Red Fort)
– Chandni Chowk Market
– Friday Masjid (Jama Masjid)
– Raj Ghat

The modern face of the city is south of Delhi:
– Hauz Khas Village
– Lotus Temple
– Kutup Minare

Delhi has many, many other districts, but we don’t know much about them.

TOP THINGS TO DO IN DELHI

1. Go Rickshaw Crazy

Rickshaws are carriages pulled along by bicycle peddles. I cannot think of a better introduction to India than by riding in a rickshaw. The experience of riding in one gives you a strong impression of the chaos and noise of Indian cities.

Traffic is so backed up in the streets of Old Delhi that it’s not like the cars are bumper to bumper, but the cars move forward while touching each other on four sides. And this is no exaggeration. You’ll find that it’s hard to walk across the street as a pedestrian as the cars don’t leave enough room between them. We swear we saw people pressing against cars to get by.

The chaos is incredible and definitely something to experience. The scene is this: monkeys are crossing the street climbing over cars, a cow also stuck in the middle of traffic, and us sitting in a rickshaw directly below electric wires hanging down like spaghetti. It’s exhilarating for the tourists but we hate to be stuck in such traffic every day. Still, you will inevitably understand yourself, as you use them to scoot between things to do in Delhi.

2. Eye-Popping Indian Fashion (And Price Tags!)

Photos don’t do justice to showing exactly how intricate these garments are. I’ve never seen such beautiful dresses and gowns.

Let me put it this way: If I were going somewhere like the Oscars, then I would probably head to the DLF Emporium to buy a dress from an Indian designer from the top floor. Especially from Tarun Tahilliani, who is known for applying his knowledge of Indian weaving to Western-type clothing. To be honest, I don’t particularly like the two-piece traditional Indian gear, but I would suggest Kotwara for daily attire.

3. Become Indian Coquette in Delhi

There are four Indians on Forbes’ list of the 100 richest people in the world. In Delhi alone, there are 18 billionaires and 23,000 millionaires, meaning you’ll be able to find golf clubs, posh restaurants & bars, and expensive shopping centers.

– DLF Emporium – a shopping center with brands like LV and Chanel. There is another shopping mall with brands in the Zara setting.

– Some of the country’s finest restaurants are in Delhi. Our recommendation is to try Indian Accent, which blends Indian cuisine with other flavors from around the world. You must make a reservation. If you feel like you need a breather from Indian food, then you can look at the other stylish restaurants we’ve listed here.

– The elite of the city go to run and walk their dogs in Lodi Gardens near Khan Market.

– Connaught Place – The business center of Delhi. Offices of all the major companies are located here.

– Golf Link neighborhood and Aurangzeb Road/APJ Abdul Kalam Road are the places where all the top-level businessmen and diplomats live, however, there’s nothing much to see here.

4. Tour Delhi’s Hipster Locations

Ok, so now we’re getting into the stuff we enjoy the most.

– Our favorite place was Shahpur Jat, which is somewhat the Delhi equivalent of  London’s Shoreditch or New York’s Greenwich Village. Before this district became popular, rents were low so it became home to many artists and designers. Since, it has become one of the most frequented places for the city’s Y generation.

The South Delhi Kitchen Community Cafe – Come here if you want to make friends with the locals. The concept here is set up so you can eat with people you don’t know.
Kunzum Travel Cafe – This is an excellent place to meet other travelers.
Social Co-working space – Come here to turn on your computer and work.
Kanelle, Sahiba Singh, Collart, and Nimai – Small designer shops
House of Blondie – For vintage enthusiasts
Wishing Chair decoration and Anand Prakash stationery

– Haus Khas Village is located half an hour by walking from Shahpur Jat and is the center of nightlife. There are restaurants, ruin bars and graffiti made by local artists. You can come here to have dinner then explore the shops around.

The most famous restaurant is Yeti, but it’s too spicy even for Indians. So while ordering, don’t forget to say “mild” or “not spicy.” The most popular bar is Hauz Khas Social. It’s a charming place.
Imperfecto is well known among locals, but we didn’t like it very much. Downstair at Zo is a decent live music venue.

5. See India’s Most Admired Art Centers

Delhi has a burgeoning art scene. Art galleries and museums keep popping up and Delhi became one of the places the westerners come to hunt for talent. There are a number of galleries, but the two most prestigious are Gallery Espace and Delhi Art Gallery. You can visit both quite quickly as they are located in Hauz Khas.

If you’re keen on things to do in Delhi that highlight local street art, we suggest that you see the works at the ST + art India Foundation. The most critical piece is the Mahatma Gandhi police – which is the biggest mural in all of India – located at the Delhi Police Headquarters. We didn’t see it, but the Lodhi Colony was transformed into the first open-air art area in India.

National Gallery of Modern Art is the most recommended modern art museum in India.

6. Watch Cricket Live

Cricket is a BIG deal in India. From September til March, Indian men live and breathe cricket. I didn’t care for the game, but if your trip happens to coincide with a big match, then you can catch a whiff of what it’s like to be a cricket supporter in India. Click here for the list of Where to Watch Cricket in Delhi. As you can expect, the matches between India and Pakistan are off the charts. If you happen to have plenty of time for things to do in Delhi, then soak in a game between the two, if only for the atmosphere.

7. Go on a Guided Walking Tour

If you think that you don’t have a lot of time to wander aimlessly around Delhi but want to get a tour guide to show you the most important parts, then there are options for you. But if you just want things to do in Delhi to help stretch your legs, here are some great walking areas:

1. Click here to travel around Old Delhi by taking a rickshaw and walking.
2. If you want to do something that packs more meaning, then you can participate in a tour set up by the Salaam Baalak Trust, which helps young homeless people earn a living.
3. Click here to learn more about tours offered by Slums Old Delhi to tour around the more impoverished neighborhoods.

8. See the Heritage Left Behind by the Brits in Delhi

For a time, Britain ruled over 600 million Indians with a presence of only 25 thousand British officers, meaning that imposing buildings would make it seem like they were a much stronger force. When the British decided to move the capital from Kolkata to Delhi in 1911, British architects Edwin Lutyens and Herbert Baker were assigned to make it the architectural capital of England’s power.

Start from Rashtrapati Bhawan on Raisina Hill, and continue down Rajpath Boulevard. Along the way, you’ll see the General Secretariat where the prime minister’s office and parliament are located. Save the India Gate and the Connaught Place for last as we recommend that you see the place at night. It looks much nicer.

9. Attend a Sufi Dergah

I’ve read tons of accounts from tourists who have said that Nizamettin Dergah’s session every Thursday from 6 pm – 7:30 pm is very impressive. Nizamettin Evliya is an incredibly influential Sufi in India, and people come together to commemorate him and make music. Unfortunately, we didn’t have time to go.

Very Useful Information

1. “Delhi Belly” – Don’t Let it Get You

“Delhi Belly,” also less delicately known as “traveler’s diarrhea,” and is very common in Delhi. If you’re not careful, then you too will have Delhi Belly, and it’ll be a shame that you’ll have rest and not see what Delhi has to offer.

Some things you’ll read will make it seem as if the Delhi Belly is inevitable, but you can avoid it by following simple rules that you can find here: Indian Travel Guide.

We were able to travel around for three weeks without any problems, but we have heard from many that they were inable to engage in any things to do in Delhi, or anywhere else, for that matter, thanks to being bed-bound. Take our advice, and you won’t be so ill-fated!

2. Don’t Get Worn Down by the “Foreign Tax”

Let’s face it; tourists are always charged more than locals. It happened to us as well. Just accept and make peace with it, and your trip will go smoother. Don’t wear yourself or a shop owner out by bargaining to get a discount on some item. Just think of the “tourist tax” as a way of helping the local people help their family like sending their kids to school.

3. Clothing

Dressing conservatively is advantageous. How much so? Looking at what Indians wear is a good point of reference: keep shoulders and legs covered. You will also find information regarding how to dress in our Indian Travel Guide post.

4. When to Come to Delhi

The best time to go to Delhi is in late autumn and during the winter months. But during the winter, it gets cold in the evenings, so definitely bring a jacket.

ONE- AND TWO- DAY ITINERARIES IN DELHI

Here is a quick list of all things to do in Delhi, although you won’t have time for all!

So, below, you’ll be able to find a classic one-day tour of Delhi:
– As soon as you leave in the morning, head over to the Friday Mesjid. If you leave it for later in the day, then it’ll be really crowded and hot. Also, make sure you put your shoes in a plastic bag so they won’t get stolen. Women don’t have to cover their heads, but they will make you wear something like a robe.
– From there, you can go to Chandi Chowk for shopping and see a variety of religions existing together.
– Set aside one hour for the Red Fort
– Food
– Hop in a rickshaw and head over to the National Gallery of Modern Art. As you’re going there, you’ll pass under the Gate of India.
– Go to Humayun Tomb, which is worthy of being an opera house.
– Qutb Minar (We say you can skip this depending on how tired you are)
– As I mentioned above, you’ll be able to see heritage left behind by the Brits at Lutyen’s Delhi (We went there for better lighting during the night, but you might find it’s easier for you to go during the day.)
– Hauz Khas Village

The places recommended for a single day are always the same, but you can change around when you’d like to see what. If you’d like to see an alternative route, then click here.

If you have two days
If you’re planning to spend two days in Delhi, then you can spread the same itinerary over two days and add the Lodi Gardens and the Jantar Mantar. Set aside one evening for Shahpurjat. And you should go on a walking tour.

THINGS TO DO IN DELHI

In order to open the map, click on GoogleMaps

[column size=one_half position=first ]1.Red Castle
2 Shri Digambar Jain Lal Mandir
3 Jama Mosque
4. Chandni Chowk
5. The Prime Balaji Deluxe
6. Hotel City Star
7. Raj Ghat
8. National Gandhi Museum and Library
9. Jantar Mantar
10. Gurudwara Bangla Sahib
11 Le Méridien New Delhi
12. Rashtrapati Bhavan
13. Rajpath
14. National Museum
15. India Gate and National Gallery of Modern Art
16. National Handicrafts & Handlooms Museum[/column][column size=one_half position=last ]17. Akshardham Temple
18. Humayun Tomb
19. Dargah Nizamuddin Auliya
20. Gandhi Smriti
21. Lodhi Garden
22. Indira Gandhi Memorial Museum
23. The Leela Palace and Le Cirque
24. Bukhara Restaurants in New Delhi
25. Taj Diplomatic Enclave, New Delhi
26. Holiday Inn New Delhi International Airport
27. Olive Bar and Kitchen Restaurant
28. Qutb Minar
29. Shree Adya Katyayani Shaktipeeth Mandir
30. Lotus Temple Road
31. Lakshmi Narayan Mandir[/column]

Red Fort

One of the most historical things to do in Delhi is to visit the Red Fort, a relic left by the Mughals. This magnificent castle has walls that are 18 meters high and was built between 1638 and 1648 by Shah Jahan. He also constructed the Taj Mahal. It’s said that the dead bodies of prisoners were used in the foundation of this building to bring good luck. Although Shah Jahan built this fort, he was never able to stay here as his son imprisoned him in Agra Castle.

The fortress became the administrative center and the site of residence for the Mughal Empire. The last emperor to stay here was Shah Bahadur II, who was exiled to Burma during the Indian Revolution. Afterward, the British destroyed the buildings and gardens within the fort’s walls and used it as army barracks for their troops. The Iranian National Museum of Jewelry has the Peacock Throne, which has 26,733 precious stones. In 1739, Nadir Shah, the king of Persia, took this valuable piece with him when he conquered Delhi.

The best way to experience the Red Fort is by watching the music and light show by the famous Indian artist Amitabh Bachchan. Click here for tickets, show dates, and other information. Entrance fee of Red Castle: 500 Rupee and 25 Rupee for an audio guide.

Working Hours: Tuesday – Sunday 10 am – 5 pm. Closed on Mondays. Address: Netaji Subhash Marg, Lal Qila, Chandni Chowk, New Delhi, Delhi 110006, Tel: +91 11 2327 7705 Website Click here for the location.

Digambara Jain Temple

Opposite the Red Fort, you’ll see the Digambara Jain Temple of Jainism, which is also made of red sandstone. One of the basic tenets of Jainism is that every living creature is valuable, so part of the temple has served as a bird hospital since 1956. This hospital treats an average of 30,000 birds per year. They help not only birds that fly but also chickens and roosters.

Working Hours: It is open every day between 11 am – 11 pm. Address: Chandni Chowk, Opposite Red Fort, Netaji Subhash Marg, New Delhi, Delhi 110006, Tel: +91 11 2328 0942 Click here for the location.

Jama Masjid

The Jama Masjid is one of the most beautiful historical monuments in the region and is left over from the Mughals. It’s the most magnificent mosque in all of India and is the last piece of poetry left by Shah Jahan. Built between 1644-1658, the building is eye-catching as it’s made from marble and red sandstone. The four surveillance towers were built for security purposes. Three main gates serve as an entrance and two meters, both of which measures 40 meters in height. You can even go to the top of one of these minarets by climbing 121 steps.

You’ll have to take off your shoes like in every mosque, but there’s no entrance fee; however, you will have to pay extra if you want to take photos. 100 Rupees to go to the top of the minaret and 200 Rupees to take pictures. The minaret is open between 9 am and 5:30 pm. Address: Meena Bazaar, Jama Masjid, Chandni Chowk, New Delhi, Delhi 110006, Click here for the location.

Humayun Tomb

This structure, which is 60 years older than the Taj Mahal, is thought to be the building that inspired the Taj Mahal. The widow of Humayan, who was a Mughal Emperor, had this tomb built for him nine years after his death. His widow was of Persian descent and was called Bega Begüm (Begüm was the title given to Indian princesses). For this reason, this structure has both Persian and Mughal influences in its architecture. The building has an arched facade, white marble, and red sandstone walls. In 1993, it was put onto UNESCO’s World Heritage List. This was also the last place Shah Bahadur took refuge before being exiled to Burma. Entrance is 500 Rupees, and it’s open every day from sunrise to sunset.

Address: Opposite Dargah Nizamuddin, Mathura Road, Nizamuddin, Nizamuddin East, New Delhi, Delhi 110013, Tel: +91 11 2435 5275 Click here for the location.

Lotus Temple

This is a work of modern design built in 1986. Iranian-Canadian architecture Farbuz Sahba designed it. As its name implies, the temple is in the shape of a lotus flower and consists of 25 white, marble slabs that make it look like a flower. The temple is open for people from all types of faiths to worship. If you’re interested, you can get information about Bahâîlik, which is a monotheistic religion that focuses on the spiritual unity of all humanity, in the visitor center located next to the temple.

You’re not allowed to take photos or videos in the area for worship.  Working Hours: April to September 9 am – 5:30 pm (Last reception is at 5 pm), October to March 9 am – 7 pm (Last reception is at 6:30 pm) Address: Lotus Temple Rd, Bahapur, Shambhu Dayal Bagh, Kalkaji, New Delhi, Delhi 110019 Website: +91 11 2644 4029 Click here for the location.

Qutb Minar

If you have limited time in Delhi and need to narrow down places to see, then this should be in the top three. This minaret is one of the rarest pieces in the Mehrauli ruins. This minaret was built in the 13th century as a monument of victory by Kutbiddin Aybek, the conquering ruler of Delhi. According to what has been said, this place is considered a masterpiece of Indian-Islamic architecture. In fact, until the Taj Mahal was built in the 14th century, it was the most massive structure in the country measuring 72.5 meters. Other structures surrounding the minaret such as the Islamic school, tomb, and mausoleum are under UNESCO protection.

Every year in October-November, the Qatb festival takes place where you’ll be able to see classic Indian music and dances. If you’re hungry, then you can head over to Nizam’s Kathi Kebabs to eat Indian-style kebabs.

You can check your bags into the coatroom. The best time to come is during sunrise, as it gets more crowded throughout the day, so add other things to do in Delhi to later on in your itinerary. Also, make note that there are light and music shows every night from 7 pm – 9 pm.

Entry: 500 Rupees. Show: 200 Rupees, and 100 Rupees for an audio guide. Tel: 02663271521 Click here for the location.

Indira Gandhi Monument Museum

This is dedicated to the life of Indira Gandhi, the country’s only female prime minister. Indira Gandhi doesn’t have blood ties with Mahatma Gandi as is commonly believed. Here, you’ll be able to find photos, documents, as well as info on the family and daily life of Indira Gandhi, who has been referred to as India’s Kennedy. She was assassinated in 1984.

Working Hours: Closed on Mondays. Open 9 am – 5:30 pm Tuesday-Sunday. Tel: 02663271521 Click here for the location.

Gandhi Smriti

This is a museum house dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi, who was the political and spiritual leader of the Indian Independence Movement. This is where he spent his last 144 days before he was killed. This was once the home of the wealthy Birla Family and was turned into a museum in 1973. The room where Gandhi spent his last day days has never been touched and has been preserved just as it was. Here, you’ll be able to see his famous glasses and sandals. The museum also has multimedia works and animation that deal with his life and the last 24 hours in detail. Gandhi was killed during his peaceful protest on January 30, 1948, and a monument was built where he died.

Working Hours: Closed on Mondays. Open 9 am – 5 pm Tuesday-Sunday. Multimedia shows are held every day between 1 pm – 1:30 pm. Website  Tel: +43 1 521510 Click here for the location.

Gandhi Monument

This is a monument erected in the Raj Gate area where the cremation of Mahatma Gandhi took place along the Yamuna River. It’s a simple black marble monument that has Gandhi’s last words on it – “Hai Ram” or “Oh, God.” If you don’t have enough time, then you can skip it as there are many other places to visit in Delhi.

Tel: 02663271521 Click here for the location.

National Gandhi Museum and Library

New Delhi National Museum

This is a museum where you can see archeological riches and the national heritage of India. Here, you’ll be able to see 5,000 years of artifacts, royal jewelry, ceramics, and wooden objects from the Middle Ages. There is also a cafeteria in the museum.

Working hours: Open from 10 am to 6 pm except on Mondays. Entrance fee is 650 Rupees, which includes an audio guide. If you’d like to take pictures, then it’s another 300 Rupees. Website Tel: 011-23019272, Ext-243 Click here for the location.

National Handicraft Museum

This is a museum that exhibits ethnic handicrafts made from traditional materials such as textile products and pots. This is an impressive collection of textiles for being a museum operated by the Indian Textile Ministry. You can also find a sweet souvenir shop and cafe.

Working Hours: 10 am – 5 pm, except on Mondays. Website  Tel: +43 1 521510 Click here for the location.

National Modern Art Gallery

This modern art gallery is the most comprehensive place for you to get an idea of the contemporary art scene in India. The gallery opened in 1954 and was formerly the home of the King of Jaipur. There are collections of oil paintings of Indian and British artists spanning the 19th and 20th centuries. Especially the famous English painter Thomas Danielle’s noble paintings are worth seeing.

Working Hours:  The gallery is closed on Mondays. Other days are open from 8 am to 5 pm. Website Tel: +43 1 521510 Click here for the location.

Evliya Nizamuddin Dervish Lodge

This is a small marble quarry that has been inherited from the Sufi tradition back to the time when the Mughals, which were from Central Asia and Iran, reigned. Since Delhi is part of a broader region where Islam has been dominant since the 12th century, it is home to trends of Islamic thought.

This lodge offers live music on Thursday nights in the courtyard. If you’ve ever been to a dervish performance, then you’ll be able to grasp that this is the number one place in the city for Sufi tourism. It’s naturally quite crowded as it is located on the point of intersection and a quite touristy area, as well as a few markets. Not least, it draws visitors from around the country and the world as one of the most spiritually enriching of things to do in Delhi.

Working Hours: Open 24 hours a day and is free. Website Tel: +43 1 521510 Click here for the location.

Akshardham Temple

Built in 2005, this is Delhi’s most famous and largest Hindu temple in India. Located on the eastern side of the city, it’s quite a magnificent structure and carved from red sandstone, similar to the Red Fort. But here you’ll be able to find the addition of about 20,000 Indian gods, goddesses, and mythological depictions in detailed reliefs.

There is a giant golden Swaminarayan sculpture in the center of the temple that measures three meters in height. This enormous complex sheds light on the 10,000-year-old Indian history.

There is also a boat tour that has a light show on the water. If you’re planning on doing this, then you’ll have to set aside at least half a day.

They don’t allow you to take your cameras inside. The entrance into the temple is free, but the water show is 80 Rupees, and the exhibits are 170 Rupees. Regarding dress, go with the mindset that you’ll be entering a church, so make sure that your shoulders and legs aren’t showing.

We suggest you read about Religion in India and What Hinduism is here.

Working Hours: Tuesday-Sunday 9:30 am – 6:30 pm Website Tel: +91 11 4344 2344 Click here for the location.

Gurudwara Bangla Sahib

This is a “gurdwara,” or Sikhs temple. There is more than one gurdwara in Delhi, but this is the most significant. The structure is made from white marble and has an onion-domed structure and was built for the 8th of 10 Sikh Gurus.

It was built for Harkrishan Dev, who was a six-year-old guru who died of smallpox at the age of 8 in 1664. Before he died, he apparently put healing powers in the water for smallpox and cholera. Today, the water held in the tank is said to be good for the diseases.

It is one of the pilgrimage points as part of the Sikh belief. They also hold live music performances and rituals here. As with every gurdwara, there is also free daily food service for those who visit it as part of the pilgrimage.

Tel: 02663271521 Click here for the location.

Rajpath Boulevard

This is the name given to the road that connects Rajpath, the Gate of India, and the Rashtrapati Bhavan Presidential Palace. The Brits called it King’s Roads. Between 1914 and 1931, it was built by Edwin Lutyens, an English architect in Delhi under British rule. Click here for the location.

India Gate

A visit to the India Gate is one of the top things to do in Delhi, especially if you only have a day. It is one of the biggest gates on Rajpath Street. It’s 42 meters high and was designed by British architect Lutyens. It was built in 1919 in honor of the 90,000 Indian soldiers who died in northwestern India and the Anglo-Afghan war. Click here for the location.

Rashtrapati Bhavan Presidential Palace

Rashtrapati Bhavan Presidential Palace is located at the end of Rajpath Street. This vast palace was completed in 1929 and functioned as the residence for the governor of English. It has 340 rooms, and all the corridors together measure 2.5 kilometers. The library and grand halls are worth seeing. This palace’s gardens, which were designed in Mughal style, are also worth seeing.

Working Hours: Open from Friday to Sunday from 9 am to 4 pm. Only online booking is possible. Entrance is 50 Rupees. Tel: 02663271521 Click here for the location.

Chattarpur Temple

After Akshardham, Chattarpur Temple is the second-largest Hindu shrine in all of India. This building, which dates back to 1974 is a gigantic worship complex devoted to the goddess Katyayani and is made of sandstone and marble. It’s less crowded during the week than on the weekends and easier to navigate.

Website Tel: +43 1 521510 Click here for the location.

Jantar Mantar Observation House

This is one of the five observatory houses during the reign of Jai Singh, who was the King of Maharaja and ruled in the 1700s. This building consists of a series of oval and geometric structures to observe the movements of the stars and planets.

The Misra Yantra, the Samrat Yantra, and the Jayprakash yantra are all tools used in the observatory. The Samrat Yantra is a giant triangle that is used as a sundial. The Misra Yantra was used to determine the shortest and longest days of the year, and the Jayaprakash was used to observe the distance between the stars.

Entry is 200 Rupees. Tel: 02663271521 Click here for the location.

Lakshmi Narayan Temple

This is a temple designed in the Orissa style and built in 1939 by Baldeo Das Birla, who was a wealthy industrialist. Thus, it’s known as the Birla Temple. The temple was built for the fertility goddess Lakshmi and guardian Narayana. This temple was made so everyone could come, and there is a phrase on the door saying, “Everyone is welcome.”

Working Hours: Open from 4:30 am – 1:30 pm and 2 pm – 9 pm. Tel: 02663271521 Click here for the location.

Lodi Gardens

This garden, which is just around the corner from Khan Market, is the most beautiful getaway spot in all of Delhi. The garden was made by Lady Willingdon, who was the wife of the governor of India and lived in Delhi in 1936.

Working Hours: Hours are 6 am – 8 pm October – March and 5 am – 8 pm April – September.  Tel: 02663271521 Click here for the location.

Transportation in the City

Metro

– There is a large underground network in the city, you can get nearly anywhere in the city. Female travelers can easily use the metro as well. There is a wagon for women who want to travel in women-only compartments.
– A ride from the airport is 100 Rupees, and other metro rides vary between 10 and 60 Rupees depending on the distance between stops.
– Get a Smart Card, because otherwise, you’ll have to wait in line for half an hour to get tokens. Plus, not all tokens are accepted everywhere. Smart Cards cost 200 Rupees, and 150 Rupees is immediately put on there as credit.
– There is something called a Tourist Card – it’s 200 Rupees for one day or 500 Rupees for three days, but it’s not worth it.
– India changed the names of places to remove the traces of its colonial past and to build a national identity. The following stops are named as follows:
Connaught Place- Rajiv Chowk
Old Delhi Railway Station – Chandni Chowk
ISBT – Kashmere Gate

Taxi and Uber

– You’ll be happy to know that Uber operates here. Use Uber instead of a taxi.

Bus

– Avoid the buses unless you enjoy being crowded in.
– But if you are intent on riding the bus, then use the JTC, which is run by the state. They are red and green and have big windows. The oranges buses belong to private companies.

Eating and Drinking in Delhi

Le Cirque

Dining is one of the essential things to do in Delhi and this is one of the city’s most popular restaurants. It’s famous for its menu blending French and Italian cuisine. At the same time, it’s a great place to come to have a sneak peek into the past.

You can find different options here such as codfish paupiette, goose chowder, lobster risotto, and creme brulee. This place is frequented by the city’s posh and elite. There are over 100 options on the wine menu. Children under the age of 12 are not accepted into the restaurant. The restaurant is only open for dinner, and the kitchen operates between 7 pm and midnight.

Address: The Leela Palace Hotel, 10th Floor, Diplomatic Enclave, Chanakyapuri Diplomatic Enclave, Chanakyapuri Phone: +91 11 3933 1390 Click here for the location.

Olive Bar & Kitchen

This restaurant is located in a restored Mughal mansion close to Qutb Minar. The menu is mainly composed of Italian, French, and Mediterranean dishes. There are plenty of options for vegetarians, such as its asparagus and fennel risotto. Their thin pizza cooked in a wood fire is exceptionally good.

Address: Olive Bar & Kitchen, 6/8, One Style Mile, Kalka Das Marg Website Tel: +91 98102 35472 Click here for the location.

Bukhara

Bukhara is known for having hosted Bill Clinton and Vladimir Putin and has become a source of pride for the city’s eating and drinking industry. Since 1977, the menu, which features cuisine from India’s northwest, has remained virtually unchanged over the years. You can also find options here such as lamb tandoor and kebab. In other words, this place is more ideal for non-vegetarians.

Address: Bukhara, Hotel ITC Maurya, Lobby Level, Sardar Patel Marg, Akhaura Block, Diplomatic Enclave Website Tel: +91 11 4621 5124 Click here for the location.

Chandni Chowk Market

This is one of India’s oldest and busiest markets, and it’s a great place to taste street food. It’s located in Old Delhi, and spicy yogurt, chaat, papri chaat, and jalebi are some of the things you can try. You should try Paranthe Wale Gulli, which is famous for its deep-fried bread. The 200-year-old Ghantewala is the oldest dessert maker in the market. Chandni Chowk is closed on Sundays, and open every other day between 9:30 am and 8 pm. Click here for the location.

Where to Stay in Delhi

One of the most important recommendations we have to give you about Delhi is that you should stay in one of its nicer neighborhoods. The subway system is good, which means that you won’t have to stay in the heart of the city in order to have easy access to things to do in Delhi. Our other suggestion is that you should stay in good hotels not only in Delhi but also throughout your travels to India. India’s service and hygienic standards are a bit different from ours, so you’ll want to keep that in mind as you’re booking.

The Leela Palace New Delhi ($$$)

This is one option for a luxurious stay in New Delhi with its six different restaurants and carefully decorated rooms. They even have a pillow menu that allows you to choose which pillow to sleep on. It’s located 15 kilometers from the airport.  Click here for detailed information and to make a reservation.

Holiday Inn New Delhi International Airport ($$)

This Holiday Inn hotel is comfortable and clean. This is probably the best choice for people who want to stay close to the airport. There is also a free shuttle service to and from the airport. The disadvantage is that it’s pretty far from other places in the city. Click here for detailed information and to make a reservation.

Taj Diplomatic Enclave, New Delhi (Formerly Taj Palace, New Delhi) ($$)

This is one of the most popular places to stay in Delhi as it has a great location, and it’s immaculate and comfortable. The hotel has a restaurant called Blue Ginger that serves Vietnamese food and a nice coffee shop. Click here for detailed information and to make a reservation.

Le Méridien New Delhi ($$)

If you want to stay in clean and spacious rooms, then this is a great place to stay. It’s near the Royal Palace, Parliament, Connaught Place, and the India Gate. The hotel has a number of restaurants inside such as The One, where you can choose from world cuisine or Eau de Monsoon where you can find local Indian cuisine. There’s also Le Belvedere for a beautiful view of the city. But be forewarned that the restaurants here are two times more expensive than what you’ll pay anywhere else in the city. Click here for detailed information and to make a reservation.

The Prime Balaji Deluxe ($)

It’s hard to find such a clean hotel at the prices they offer. If you arrange it beforehand, they can pick you up at the airport free of charge. Also, if you’re considering buying a tour package or want to see the area, make sure to ask someone from the hotel. The hotel has a deal with the taxi drivers, so you’ll probably get a better fare going with them than by trying to arrange everything yourself. Click here for detailed information and to make a reservation.

Hotel City Star ($)

Although the hotel is not very practical, the place is clean and offer comfortable rooms at an affordable price. The staff working here are very attentive, and you get a lot for what you pay for. Click here for detailed information and to make a reservation.

Backpackers usually stay near the Paharganj Market opposite Delhi Railway Station. Here, you’ll be able to find hotels, cafes, and shopping places on the lower end of your budget. Backpackers frequent places like My Bar, Diamond Café, and The Shim Tour Korean Café.

What to Buy from Delhi

People often claim Delhi is the best place to shop in the whole country as it’s got the best products.
If you want to get more modern things, then head to Khan Market, Connaught Place, and Shahpur Jat, which we mentioned above. Good Earth in Khan Market does not have house items, but it’s expensive.

If you are looking for more traditional things, get your bargaining face on and go here:
Dilli Haat – You will find handicrafts here from all over India. There are shawls, tribal ethnic jewelry, and paintings.
Chandni Chowk – Oldest bazaar in India. Here, you’ll be able to find spices, jewelry made from silver, and textiles. It’s also an ideal place to taste street food.
Janpath Market – This place has decorative objects that include pashmina textiles and antique goods.
Sarojini Market – A bazaar where local people often come to shop.

If you want to buy designer clothes, then look at the places I mentioned above.

 _ . _
Hope you enjoyed our list of things to do in Delhi. For our other city guides, you can check our India Travel Guide.

The post THINGS TO DO IN DELHI & IDEAL ITINERARY appeared first on Biz Evde Yokuz.

Note:
Before departing for your trip to India, we definitely recommend reading the following two articles:
– Our Life in India Guide (General information about the country: what kind of place is it for travelers, religion, caste system, misconceptions about cleanliness and everything you need to know before you go)
– Our India Travel Guide (budget, route, alerts, as well as suggestions and preparation tips before you go)

For those of you who don’t have a lot of time in India, we recommend doing the Golden Triangle tourism circuit, which includes  Agra & Delhi.

Old Pink City

Jaipur is known as India’s pink city (to read about India’s blue city Jodhpur, click here). All the buildings in the city are a hue of pink and have been that way since the 1870s, when the Maharaja was trying to impress the English King on his visit to India.

The color pink was chosen as it represents hospitality, and there is even a decree that every building must be pink (for us, a lot of the buildings seemed to be an orange color, but you get the point ).

At that time in history, India had been colonized by the British, so it was a big deal when Victoria and Albert came to visit. It was easy to enforce such a decree during the reign of Maharaja Sawai Ram Singh, who was the most powerful ruler in Rajasthan. But it’s interesting to note that this regulation is still in place today and it’s become such a significant part of the cultural heritage of Jaipur, despite the fact that the provinces have long gained independence.

THINGS TO DO IN JAIPUR: PLACES TO SEE

Click here to open Google Maps.

Nahargarh Fort

Visiting this fort, which dates back to 1734, is one of the popular things to do in Jaipur for watching the sunset. This is also a popular picnicking spot for locals. In order to get up to the fort, you have to walk two kilometers uphill. Entrance is 30 Rupees, and 70 Rupees if you want to take a picture. Open between 10 am – 5 pm.

Click here for the location.

City Palace

This is a complex that contains a palace and a mix of Rajastani and Babur architecture, complete with a courtyard and garden. The palace has two entrance: the main one is Virendra Pol, and the other is Udai Pol.

If you go in through the main entrance, then you’ll see Mubarak Mahal, which is a combination of Islamic, European, and Rajasthani architecture. At the entrance, you’ll see the Armory and Textile Museum. The Arms Museum occupies another part of the palace.

After the main garden, you’ll see the seven-story Chandra Mahal, which was where the Maharajas lived. Diwan-i-Aam features manuscripts, and the Diwan-e-Khas, which was a private hall where the king greeted guests, has two massive vessels that are 1.6 meters in size. Maharana Madho Sing, a very strict Hindu, took the water of the Ganges River in these giant vessels with him when he visited England.

The doors to the Pitam Niwas Chowk Courtyard represent the four seasons. The peacock motif on the autumn gate is well known.

Entrance fee: 300 Rupees for adults and 200 Rupees for children 15 years and younger. If you want to take photos, it’s 50 Rupees. Open from 9:30 am – 5 pm. Click here for the location.

Hawa Mahal

Jaipur’s most interesting building is located at the backend of the City Palace: a 5-story palace called the Hawa Mahal, or the “Palace of Winds” or “Palace of the Breeze.”

The front of the building faces the busiest street in the city. The palace was made out of sandstone in 1799 by Maharana Pratap Singh and has 953 small windows, a balcony, and a thin folding screen. The women of the palace used to watch festivals from here or just look out onto the street in the shade. It’s obvious that Iran has influenced the city both in its architecture and the way of living.

When you head to the top of the hill, you’ll have a view of the City Palace, Jantar Mantar, and the Sireh Deori Bazaar. Website.  It is open from Saturday to Thursday between 9 am – 4:30 pm. Entry fee is 50 Rupees. Click here for the location.

Jal Mahal

The Jal Mahal is a fascinating structure that rises out of the Man Sagar, which is a dam lake. At the time of construction in 1799, there was no dam. The emperors of the period used it as a hunting lodge.

In the 18th century, a dam was built to keep the rainwater at bay, maybe you’ve guessed what’s happened now ;). There is more to the building than meets the eye. Although it’s not visible from the outside, four floors are underwater! Until recently, there were boat tours that went around the palace, but the tours were banned. Click here for the location.

Jantar Mantar

Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh’s biggest passion was astronomy. So he built five observatories to calculate the seasons, stars, and solar and lunar eclipses. One is in Delhi, and one is in Jaipur. The Jaipur observatory, which dates back to 1728, is located right next to the City Palace. Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh even sent men overseas to learn how to build this structure.

It’s open between 9 am – 4:30 pm. Entry is 100 Rupees. It’s 100 more Rupees if you want a guided tour, which is something that we recommend. Click here for the location.

Albert Hall Museum

If you remember, earlier in the article we said that King Albert visited Jaipur – this museum was built in his honor in 1876. It’s the oldest museum in the Rajasthan province, and it’s currently being used as the Rajasthan State Museum.

Maharaja Sawai Ram Singh first started construction on the building and thought it was going to be a government building for administrative purposes. However, Maharaja Madho Singh II decided that this building needed to be a museum. The museum has a rich collection of carpets, ivory objects, precious stones, statues, crystal works, and oil paintings.

Click here for their website. Open every day between 9 am and 5 pm and 7 pm to 10 pm. Entrance fee is 300 Rupees for an adult ticket, and 150 for students. Website. Click here for the location.

Amber Castle

Situated on a hill 13 kilometers away from the center of Jaipur, the castle was built in 1592 by Maharaja Man Singh, a military officer. The dynasty continued its reign until around the 16th century. As the Maharajas built close relationships with the Mongols, you can see traces of their influence in the capital Amber and its Amber Castle.

You’ll either have to ride on the back of a camel or take a 4×4 in order to get to the castle, but both are adventurous things to do in Jaipur! Visiting hours 9 am to 5:30 pm. Entry fee is 150 Rupees. Click here for the location.

Galtaji (Monkey Temple)

Located 20 minutes away by car from the center of the city of Jaipur, Galtaji is known as the Monkey Temple as this temple houses hundreds of, you guessed it, monkeys. At the entrance of the temple, you can buy peanuts to feed them – but be careful! If they spot food, 50 will come running in your direction. Many Hindu pilgrims come here to worship, so it might get a little crowded, but it still makes a fun addition to any Jaipur itinerary. Click here for the location.

We suggest you read about Religion in India and What Hinduism is here.

Kites at Sunset

As the sun sets in Jaipur, many people throughout the city fly kites. Everyone has a kite on hand. If you want, you can just ask someone, and they’ll lend you their kite. Really!

Jaipur Elephant Farms

We were quite shocked when we saw an elephant going down a side road when we were waiting in traffic. Shocked! Everyone was acting normal – our driver signaled and gave way.

A note about riding elephants: Elephants are some of the smartest and most emotional animals in the world, and the training that they go through is often very cruel. The only reason why this practice hasn’t come to an end is that tourists want to see and ride elephants. Please don’t ride elephants and support this cruelty! There are much more humane ways of interacting with these majestic creatures. For instance, volunteering at rehabilitation centers is a great way to do this. We’ve already written about this in our Thailand Travel Guide.

We also wrote about volunteering with Help in Suffering at the Maharani Farm located in Durgapura. It’s an animal clinic open to volunteers, though minimum commitment starts at three months. They also have volunteer positions for longer periods of time like 6 and 12 months. If you’re planning to stay in India for a longer period, this is something to think about. It’s a great idea if you’re a student and you’re looking for a meaningful way to spend your summer vacation.

RESTAURANTS IN JAIPUR

Handi

This restaurant has been awarded the title “The Best North Indian Cuisine Restaurant.” Of course, this title brings a lot of tourists with it. Nevertheless, it’s still the best place to taste traditional and authentic Indian cuisine when it comes to things to do in Jaipur. We recommend that you try the chicken biryani, lamb handi, and the Afghan chicken. If there’s room, try to get a table on the terrace. Address: Maya Mansion, Opposite GPO, MI Road Website Tel: 91 141 491 7115. Click here for the location.

1135 AD

Steam

This is one of the best places to go for the Mediterranean or Lebanese cuisine. The restaurant is located in a renovated station left from the Victorian era. We recommend that you try one of their pizzas or calzones. Address: Rambagh Palace, Bhawani Singh Road, Rambagh. Tel: +91 141 238 5700. Click here for the location.

OTB On The Bar BQ

This is a very modern resto-lounge where everyone can easily find something to eat for themselves. Here, you’ll be able to choose from buttered chicken, BBQ options, hamburgers, pizzas, as well as nachos. This is ideal for a Friday night. Address: Rooftop, Crystal Court Mall, Malviya Nagar. Website. Tel: +91 141 511 5555. Click here for the location.

Samode Haveli

This is a traditional Jaipur mansion with a lovely courtyard, and it’s the perfect escape from the city. It’s also a restaurant in a luxury hotel called Samode. Here, you’ll be able to find options like buttered chicken, dal makhni, and laal maans. Address: Near Jorawar Singh Gate, Gangapole. Website. Phone: +91 141 263 2407. Click here for the location.

Bar Palladio

Bar Palladio has some of the best interior design and would be an interesting addition to any designer’s Jaipur itinerary. This is also a resto-lounge with orientalist decor. Located in the Narain Niwas Palace Hotel, this is a very romantic place where you’ll be able to order Italian food such as spaghetti and tiramisu as well as simple snacks like fries if you just wanna peep the interior. Address: Kanota Bagh, Bhag Singh Road, Adarsh ​​Nagar. Website. Phone: +91 141 256 5556. Click here for the location.

CAFES IN JAIPUR

Zolocrust

Zolocrust is a café-restaurant that has an open kitchen and is open 24/7. You can see the food made in front of your eyes. There’s salad, pizza, pasta, snacks, and interesting cakes and pies on the menu. Address: Lobby Level, Hotel Clarks Amer, Jawaharlal Nehru Marg. Website. Tel: 91 93524 98150. Click here for the location.

Taruveda

You’ll be able to find organic food here and will love the photos that decorate the walls of this bistro. They also sell homemade products as well, and they offer a wide variety of vegan options from all over the world, including sushi, waffles and crepes, falafels, hummus, and tofu burgers. Address: 1st Floor, Sunraj Villa, 2 Mysore House, Jacob Road, Madrampura, Civil Lines. Website. Phone: 91 141 222 2644. Click here for the location.

Mamu’s Infusion

This is a very friendly family-run cafe that has a colorful and vibrant atmosphere. Here, you’ll be able to order classic cafe menu including enchiladas, falafel, penne, and ravioli. Address: 101, 1st Floor, Mangalam Ambition Tower, Subhash Marg, C Scheme. Website. Telephone: 91 141 510 8290. Click here for the location.

HOTELS IN JAIPUR

Samode Haveli

Built in the style of Rajasthan architecture, this luxurious and authentic hotel used to be a family home. The hotel’s restaurant is a great place to go as you’ll find the best service in town there, and some of the most delicious Indian food in Jaipur. Click here for more details and to make a reservation.

Fairmont Jaipur

This is another luxury option in Jaipur. It’s like an Indian palace, and it has its own restaurants, pool, and spa. Click here for more details and to make a reservation.

Radisson Jaipur City Center

This is a bit more of a modest option, but you’ll still be comfortable here. The hotel’s restaurant is one of the most popular for Chinese and Thai food. Click here for more details and to make a reservation.

Other Hotel Options

Click here for other hotel options in Jaipur.

WHERE IS JAIPUR?

Jaipur is a city in Rajasthan province of India. Jaipur is located in the northwestern part of Jaipur and west of Agra.

Jaipur is located:

335 kilometers from Jodhpur, about 5 hours 45 minutes by car, 4 hours 45 minutes by train.
238 kilometers from Agra, about 4 hours and 20 minutes by car, 3 hours and 40 minutes by train.
269 ​​kilometers from New Delhi, about 5 hours and 10 minutes by car, and 5 hours and 5 minutes by train.

GETTING TO JAIPUR

You probably won’t be able to find many international flights to Jaipur, so the best thing to do is to book a flight to Delhi.

From Delhi, Jaipur is only 270 kilometers away by car, meaning that it takes around 5 hours and 10 minutes by car and by train. You can buy a ticket for the Ashram Express from Delhi to Jaipur.

You can also use the train to go to neighboring cities. You can use the Superfast Express to go from Jodhpur to Jaipur and the Shatabdi Express to go from Agra to Jaipur.

 _ . _
Hope you enjoyed our list of things to do in Jaipur. For our other city guides, you can check our India Travel Guide.

The post THINGS TO DO IN JAIPUR – INDIA’S PINK CITY appeared first on Biz Evde Yokuz.

That said, this is not a city where you need to set aside a lot of time: one day is enough to visit Agra. If you spend one day in the home of the Taj Mahal you’ll of course see that glittering white icon of India, the Agra Fort and, if you push hard, you can explore the nearby town of Fatehpur Sikri. If you’re not up for going to Fatehpur Sikri, then another option is to see the small but spectacular Kohinoor Jewellers museum.

Important Note:
Before departing for your trip to India, we definitely recommend reading the following two articles:
– Our Life in India Guide (General information about the country: what kind of place is it for travelers, religion, caste system, misconceptions about cleanliness and everything you need to know before you go)
– Our India Travel Guide (budget, route, alerts, as well as suggestions and preparation tips before you go)

For those of you who don’t have a lot of time in India, we recommend doing the Golden Triangle tourism circuit, which includes Jaipur & Delhi.

PLACES TO SEE: THE TOP THINGS TO DO IN AGRA

The Taj Mahal

Taj Mahal is the symbol of India and the reason why most tourists visit Agra – and India, for that matter. The building is known for being one of the new seven wonders of the world and is simply a masterpiece. We’ve kept it shore here since we’ve described the Taj Mahal in another article. Click here for the location.

Agra Fort

The Agra Fort is right across from the Taj Mahal. No matter how much it lies in the shadow of the Taj Mahal, the fortress is one of the greatest examples of architecture from the Mughal Empire.

Located alongside the Yamuna River, the building’s construction started in 1565 during the reign of Emperor Akbar. Later, his grandson Shah Jahan made additions to the fort in white marble, which was his favorite material. Even though the castle was originally built for military purposes, Shah Jahan turned it into a royal palace.

Unfortunately, in 1658, his son Aurangzeb seized control and put Shah Jahan under house arrest for eight years. The British also used it as a garrison during their domination.

Hot tip

From the side of the fort that faces the grave where Shah Janan’s wife is buried, you can get a really nice angle of the Taj Mahal. There haven’t been many photos taken from this vantage point. This view gets even better at sunrise – in those first rays of sunshine, there’s still morning fog.

If you want to visit both the Taj Mahal and the Agra Fort on the same day, which is our recommendation, then you can get a discount of 50 Rupees from the total fare. Entry Fee: 300 Rupees for an adult ticket and 25 Rupees to take a video. Visiting from sunrise to sunset is possible. Click here for the location.

Grave of the Emperor Akbar

The mausoleum of Emperor Akbar, who was the most important emperor of the Mughal Empire, is located in Sikandra, which is 10 kilometers away from the Agra Fort. If you’re determined to make this one of the things to do in Agra, you can get onto a bus operating between Mathura-Idgah and pay 10 Rupees, and you’ll be there in 45 minutes. Entrance is 110 Rupees and 25 extra for a video. Click here for the location.

Fatehpur Sikri

Located 40 kilometers away from Agra, Fatehpur Sikri is an old city surrounded by walls. Between 1571 and 1585, the city was the capital of the Mughal Empire before Agra became the capital. According to rumors, Emperor Akbar visited a Sufi religious scholar there and received news that his son was going to be heir to the empire. When this prophecy came true, he decided that Fatehpur Sikri would be the center of the empire, and he ordered a mosque to be built there, which is still open today.

He also built three palaces for his favorite wives – one who was Hindu, one who was Muslim and another who was Christian. However, because the region is very barren and there was a water shortage, the city was abandoned shortly after the death of Akbar. Now, it’s a place frequented by daytrippers and that has been added to UNESCO’s World Heritage List. Click here for the location.

Kohinoor Jewelers

Kohinoor Jewelers is India’s most famous jeweler, and it’s also a museum that has a magnificent collection of paintings that depict precious and semi-precious stones. Established in 1862, the family started the business to make royal jewels, and it’s been passed down through generations. Thanks to their success and the wonderful collection they have, this family business has been featured in magazines from Vogue to National Geographic. The father works with his daughter, who designs the jewelry, and his son, who is a gemologist.

You can look at all the jewels, but there are 7-8 pieces in the museum that you really must see. Each work has distinguishing characteristics, and each has taken 7-8 years to finish. The room where the jewels are housed might be closed, but you can ask them to open it for you. Tel: +39 02 9176 5472. Website. Click here for the location.

WHAT TO EAT IN AGRA

Esphahan

This restaurant is located in the Oberoi Amarvilas Hotel and is one of the most popular traditional Indian restaurants in Agra. They don’t have a wide selection on their menu (a great feature, really), but what they do have is fantastic, particularly the tandoori from North Indian cuisine as well as the kerala shrimp fried rice and shrimp curry.

It’s also important that you book a reservation before going since eating here is amongst the hot things to do in Agra. There are two sessions every evening for dinner – one at 7 pm and the other at 9:30 pm. They have a smart casual dress code and allow children to dine who are over the age of 8.

Address: Taj East Gate, Near Fathebad Road, Agra, Uttar Pradesh. Website. Phone: +91 562 223 1515. Click here for the location.

Pinch of Spice

This is one of the most popular restaurants in Agra, and it’s one of the best places to find North Indian cuisine in town. We recommend that you try the chicken tikka masala, paneer lababdar, freshly cut cheese with spices and onions, as well as other authentic dishes.

Address: 1076/2, Fatehabad Road, Opposite Hotel ITC Mughal, Tajganj, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282001. Website. Phone: +91 562 404 5252. Click here for the location.

Street Flavors

Seth Gali Street is an ideal place to try Aloo Tikka (a fried snack with potatoes, onions and curry) and Lassi (a yogurt drink with water and sugar). You can go to Sadar Bazaar for Aloo Chaat (potatoes with spices), crispy Pani Puri and Falooda (a sweet drink made by mixing rose syrup, vermicelli, sweet basil seeds and pieces of jelly with milk). For breakfast, you can find the Bedai and Jalebi duo at Brij Bhog and Bhagat Halwai.

WHERE TO STAY WHEN YOU VISIT AGRA

As the home of the Taj Mahal, the best places to stay in Agra are those close to the majestic structure itself.

ITC Mughal Luxury Collection Hotel Agra ($$$)

This hotel is set on 14 acres of greenery and offers an outdoor pool, four eating and drinking places, spa facilities and more luxurious offerings than anything else you’ll find in town. It’s located three kilometers from the Taj Mahal.
Click here for detailed information and to make a reservation.

The Grand Imperial – Heritage Hotel ($$)

The Medieval-style hotel is located in the center of Agra. Prices include breakfast at the hotel’s restaurant.
Click here for detailed information and to make a reservation.

Courtyard by Marriott Agra ($$)

The hotel is situated three miles from the Taj Mahal and sits on a complex that has an outdoor pool, fitness center, spa center and restaurants.
Click here for detailed information and to make a reservation.

Aman Homestay ($)

This is a family-run business in walking distance of the Taj Mahal. The prices are affordable, and the people who run the business are quite sweet.
Click here for detailed information and to make a reservation.

WHERE IS AGRA?

The home of the Taj Mahal is located in the province of Uttar Pradesh, and is a city in the northern part of India near the border with Nepal. It is also north of New Delhi and lies on the coast of the Yamuna River.

Agra is located:

243 kilometers away from Jaipur, or 4 hours and 30 minutes by car and 3 hours and 45 minutes by train.
576 kilometers from Jodhpur, or 10 hours and 5 minutes by car and 10 hours and 50 minutes by train.
212 kilometers from New Delhi, or 3 hours and 18 minutes by car and 2 hours and 5 minutes by train.

GETTING TO AGRA

The best way to get to Agra is through New Delhi as you’re unlikely to find international flights. However, even Air India does not have direct flights to Agra, and you’ll have to stopover at Varanasi. So, it makes more sense to hop onto a train from New Delhi to Agra. You can choose from the Shatabdi Express, Rajdhani Express and Superfast Express. The journey only takes between two and two and a half hours.

GOLDEN TRIANGLE

Agra, New Delhi and Jaipur make up the golden triangle tourist circuit in India. People who want to do the golden triangle usually start in Delhi, go to Agra and finish their tour in Jaipur. One of the most popular trains is the Shatabadi Express to take this route. The Superfast Express goes between Jaipur and Agra and takes about 4 hours from one city to the other.

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Hope you enjoyed our list of things to do in Agra. For our other city guides, you can check our India Travel Guide.

The post THINGS TO DO IN AGRA – THE HOME OF THE TAJ MAHAL appeared first on Biz Evde Yokuz.

Varanasi is a sacred pilgrimage site for Hindus. The city has been inhibited for 5,000 years, making it the oldest city with uninterrupted human settlement in the world. Mark Twain once said that the city was “older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend – and looks twice as old as all of them put together.”

City of Shiva, The God of Destruction

Varanasi is the city of the god of destruction, Shiva. Hindus believe that if they die here, they will be removed from the cycle of reincarnation and become one with God. Emancipation from the cycle of samsara, or death-and-rebirth, and the achievement of nirvana, or enlightenment, is known as moksha.

Thus, the sick and elderly arrive here from all over the country to await death. In Hinduism, when one thinks of things to do in Varanasi, the immediate thought is unsurprisingly morbid. At one time, the city was full of moksha guesthouses, which acted like hospices to look after those expecting their final day to come soon.

However, many of these moksha guesthouses have since been converted into hotels to cash in on burgeoning tourism. Mostly, however, the bodies of those who pass away without making it here are brought to Varanasi for cremation.

City of the dead

Needless to say, the city feels almost like one big morgue. The scent of the hundreds of bodies cremated along the banks of the Ganges River pervades the whole city. We watched a cremation from some 10 meters away and, within an instant, the smell filled our eyes and mouths.

I was gobsmacked at how unremarkable this event was for everyone else around me. But in Hinduism, death is an ordinary event, a brief stop-off on the soul’s endless journey. With this idea, those left behind may be more at peace with this reality…

Important Note:

We recommend reading the following articles before heading to India and exploring things to do in Varanasi:

– Our Life in India Guide (General information about the country: what kind of place is it for travelers, religion, caste system, misconceptions about cleanliness and everything you need to know before you go)
– Our India Travel Guide (budget, route, alerts, as well as suggestions and preparation tips before you go)

Cremation in Indian Culture

In Varanasi funerals, the body of the deceased is first covered in a white shroud and brought on the shoulders of attendees to the banks of the River Ganges. As there is nothing like a coffin, the body burns in full view. It was rather discombobulating to find myself witnessing a scene like this, but it’s important to remember that those around you see death simply as the soul shedding its skin. Personally, I can’t even pull it together when I see roadkill!

For the people living in poverty in India surviving is hard, but dying isn’t any easier. It takes about four hours to incinerate a body, with around 200-500 kilos of firewood needed depending on the size of the body which can be unaffordable for most. Those who can afford it use sweet-smelling sandalwood, but this is quite expensive. That being the case, many use plywood mixed with sandalwood shavings. The lighting of the wood itself must be accompanied by the blessings of a priest.

Beating the Skulls Open With a Stick

Sometime over the course of the burning ceremony, a stick is used to crack the skull open so that the soul can fully leave the body. Due to the density of tissue in certain areas of the body, like the buttocks on women and chest on men, these parts have trouble burning and are thus thrown into the Ganges.

We had heard that the ashes themselves were also cast into the Ganges. However, our guide told us they were mostly left to blow away in the breeze.

In terms of things to do in Varanasi, witnessing this ceremony definitely comes out on top. Whatever your take is on cremation, it definitely creates room for thought: visually it’s spectacular, morbid, and, somehow, mundane.

Who Can’t be Cremated?

The bodies of children, pregnant women, and saints or those who die from snakebites (snakes are sacred animals believed to have healing powers) cannot be burned in this ceremony. Cremation is to help absolve the dead of their negative karma, but in their cases, there is no negative karma since they are considered to be pure and innocent. This is why the bodies of children under a certain age are submerged in holy rivers like the Ganges, though the government has now mandated that crematoriums must accept children.

Varanasi Tourist Guide

1. Get A Local Guide

To get the most out of the things to do in Varanasi, it is definitely worth hiring a local guide to help you around. We bumped into our guide by chance when we arrived and bought a full day tour (although, to be honest, a half-day tour would be enough). He asked for 3,000 rupees, but we shook on 2,000, including a morning boat tour (which generally costs around 100 rupees).

We wandered the ghats (the large steps leading down to the Ganges), witnessed a cremation, and explored a number of temples. But the necessity of having a guide is that you’ll have someone who is able to explain the finer points of the Hindu belief system as you see it in action. You can get a grasp of some of the key concepts in our Hinduism article. If you want to hire our tour guide, his Facebook page can be found here.

2. Watch an “Aarti” Ceremony

If there are only two things to do in Varanasi, one is watching a cremation, and the other is the Aarti. Aarti is a fire ceremony performed for the gods and the River Ganges. This ceremony is performed by priests along the banks of the river every night without fail and attracts pilgrims from all over the world – not least as Varanasi holds an important place in Hinduism, Jainism and Buddhism.

The ceremony begins at 18.30 during the winter and 19:00 over the summer and can be seen at the Dasaswamedh and neighboring ghats.

Notes:

• Some people hire small boats to view the ceremony from the river, but there is really no need. Boats begin at 700 rupees per person, but limit your ability to wander around freely and don’t necessarily offer a better view.
• A smaller version of the ceremony is performed at 7 in the morning but this is quite underwhelming compared to the evening slot. Besides, you’ll want to save the ceremony for things to do in Varanasi in the evening. Enjoy a boat trip in the morning, which is our next tip!

3. Head Out on a Boat Tour

A tour with a local guide will generally begin with a boat tour, but if you are going to wander around solo then you should definitely hop on a boat at around 7 am. The boat takes you to the great crematorium on the other side of the river. As we chose a rather misty morning to arrive, however, there was not a lot we could see.

Then again, being enveloped in mist accompanied only by the sound of bells ringing is the eeriest, most enchanting of things to do in Varanasi if you get the chance! Plus, it was interesting to see people who had come to wash and be blessed by the river next to those washing their laundry. Winters in Varanasi can be rather chilly – so make sure you bring a coat!

4. Witness a Cremation

This might sound morbid, but cremations are public affairs that everyone can attend, though understandably it is forbidden to take photos or shoot films of them. Unfortunately, this rule is open to the effects of the market, and for something like 6,000 rupees, they will apparently allow you to record. Out of respect, please don’t do that.

As we stated above, greeting death is at the top of most Hindus’ list of things to do in Varanasi – but many more have their bodies sent here to be cremated along the river. The most accessible and oldest of these cremation spots is the Harishchandra Ghat.

5. Stroll the Length of Bengali Tola Road

This is the nicest of the things to do in Varanasi. The Bengali Tola Road has a number of cafes, souvenir shops and tour offices– not to mention Indian instrument shops. Be sure to drop by. And also sample the local lassi (a flavored yogurt smoothie-like drink) while you’re at it!

How Long Should I Spend in Varanasi?

Varanasi, unfortunately, has some of the worst conditions we witnessed during our time in India. And we saw it during a good time of year, monsoon season when the water carries the sewage and waste down the river! However, during the summer, the air apparently becomes fetid with decay.

Then there is also the smell emanating from the cremated bodies that lingers over the city. But it is certainly a place worth visiting, and some of the things to do in Varanasi will be unforgettable. So, if you visit Varanasi, we recommend one day as this should be enough to see everything.

Important Information When You Visit Varanasi

Don’t Go Into the Ganges!

Pilgrims who come here from all over the world can’t wait to throw themselves into the river for blessings – but we would caution anyone else from following suit. The Ganges is, unfortunately, one of the most polluted rivers in the world, with sewage systems, chemical waste and bodies (cremated or not) all ending up in the river, not to mention the sick seeking out its healing properties. Needless to say, the Indian government itself has been trying to warn people about the risk for years. So if you are looking for things to do in Varanasi, don’t even think of taking a dip.

Mind what you eat

In Varanasi, hygiene is not quite highly regarded, so although it would be nice to adapt to the local way of life, remember that locals have a better adapted immune system. Be careful where and what you eat.

Don’t risk it with hotels

One of the first things to do in Varanasi is to book a clean hotel. There may be only two. The Tridev Hotel is the newest and best in terms of cleanliness. The fact that it is a little further out of the hotel district is also a plus, as this area has narrow streets that vehicles can’t access. Staying in this district means you’d have to lug your baggage through the streets for a part of the journey. Breakfast is included in the cost and they will help you organize things to do in Varanasi if you ask. Click here for more details and booking information.

Don’t Fall for these Traps! 

• • Like many places, Varanasi too attracts those wishing to exploit cultural norms for a quick buck. Don’t be surprised if someone comes and strokes red paste (tilaka) on your forehead before demanding money for the blessing.
  • Anyone who comes up beside you and starts informing you all about the ghats and local traditions will probably expect some money.
  • Sadhus (religious ascetics or holy men) will always want money for you to photograph them if you ask. They’ll curse you with bad karma if you don’t.
  • There’s a lot of unemployment and petty theft in the city, so watch your bags and wallet.
  • Many people will ask for money for firewood as a means of begging.

Have a good shower when you get to the hotel!

You won’t realize quite how pervasive the drifting ashes can be.

Dining

• You’ll have to become a vegetarian while in Varanasi. As the area is a heavily religious one, no meat products can be found.
• We would recommend having all three meals at the restaurant of the hotel we suggested. It’s the most hygiene-friendly in the city.

Prices:

• Many taxi drivers will seek 1000 rupees from the airport, but we paid 600.
• There’s no Uber, but you can download the Indian version, Ola. This is the cheapest way to get to the airport.
• It costs 100 rupees to grab a rickshaw from the Tridev Hotel to the ghats, temples and main sites. Most people share a ride in the rickshaws for 15 rupees each, but many of these ride shares don’t accept tourists.
• Temple Opening Times: Temples close at 12 pm, the Durga Temple closes at 1 pm. They open after lunchtime
• A bottle of water is 20 rupees.

A word on the Sadhus

The banks of the Ganges are dotted with small groups of Sadhus. These Sadhus cover their faces and bodies with the ashes of the recently cremated like body paint. They often use psychotropic drugs as a means of remaining in touch with spirituality. But be warned, this is in no way a legal practice, and India has extremely severe laws that apply to people in possession of the slightest whiff of drugs.

Paan – This a herb for chewing, like tobacco, wrapped up in a betel leaf. This is available all over India, but nowhere more so than here.

Lastly, don’t forget to make a wish and cast an offering into the Ganges (Candles are sold in the evening in the ceremony lines).

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Hope you enjoyed our list of things to do in Varanasi. For our other city guides, you can check our India Travel Guide.

The post COMPLETE GUIDE TO VARANASI: THINGS TO DO IN VARANASI & WARNINGS! appeared first on Biz Evde Yokuz.

India is often described as a “country of contrasts” and nowhere is this more visible than in Mumbai. The city hosts the world’s most expensive house (the Antilla Building, shown below), as well as the world’s largest slum, made up of hand-built homes made of little more than cardboard boxes. The city is inhabited by artists, crooks, exotic birds, and thousands of stray dogs. If Mumbai can be described in one word, it would be “contrasts.” But it is just as synonymous with Bollywood, the biggest film industry in the world.

If New York is the backdrop to most Hollywood flicks, than Mumbai is its Indian counterpart. Mumbai is the heart of India’s film, fashion, and financial world. The city is the site of the most expensive property, the worst traffic, and some of recent history’s most fiery clashes. Essentially, here one can find people of every cast, religion, and employ.

India has countless sites to visit, and to be honest, it is not very wise to invest your time in Mumbai. But for those of you who want to have a quick visit, the following article should help you find enough things to do in Mumbai to make your visit worth it.

MUMBAI = BOMBAY

We are apparently not the only people in the world who were confused as to whether Bombay and Mumbai were two different places. The beautiful bay which forms the setting of the city, was first recorded by the arriving Portuguese as “Bombaim”. Later, when the British arrived to found the first settlements that would form the current city, the name was Anglicized to “Bombay”. In 1995, the governing party that came into power saw the name as a legacy of British rule, and thus changed it to honor the goddess Mumba Devi, a figure worshipped by the area’s native Koli people. Needless to say, with such a heritage, there are plenty of things to do in Mumbai relating to the city’s proud history.

Introduction to Mumbai

Mumbai serves as the capital of the Maharashtra State, and is built on land which used to form seven separate islands in the bay, which had been inhabited since ancient times. In 1534, the Portuguese took control of the area, naming it “Bombaim”. However, in 1661, due to a marriage uniting the English and Portuguese royal families (Catherine de Braganza and Charles II) the area was gifted to the English crown.

The Birthplace of the Raj

In 1668, the English crown decided to rent out the lands to a private trading corporation called the East India Company. Between 1817-1845, the original islands upon which the city is founded were joined together as part of a mass recovery project. Due to its excellent situation as a port, the company made huge gains from their lease, to the degree that they would soon start itching to expand their influence, eventually taking authority over most of the subcontinent. Viewed in this way, it is apparent that the conquest of India was not a pre-ordained British project, but more of series of opportunities that were taken bit by bit. This company expanded from a trading corporation to become the engine which transformed England into the head of a global empire. When the British authorities awoke to this emerging situation, they would eventually take full command of its maintenance and expansion.

Mumbai’s Global Impact

Global events also combined to shape the success and growth of the city; the main of these being that cotton, which had been grown overwhelmingly in America and exported across the world, would see a huge decline with the onset of the American Civil War, and so India was able to pick up the slack and take the mantle of the global cotton trade in these years. With the opening of the Suez Canal, imports gained even easier access to European markets, making the East India Company an even more powerful player in global affairs. But this marked the beginning of the end, and Britain would soon intervene to formalize its governance of India. By the 1940s, the city had become a hotbed of revolt and the independence movement surged to a point where Britain had no choice but to make way for a free India.

Today’s Mumbai

Today, the east side of the island is mostly dominated by port areas. The city’s financial and cultural heart beats in the south. The peninsula on Mumbai’s southernmost point marks Coloba – the most touristic area of the city. Mumbai’s slum areas spread out along its northern tiers, and have grown in fame thanks to their depictions in movies such as Slumdog Millionaire. However, ever the city of contrasts, Mumbai’s best restaurants, nightclubs, and shopping centers are also located in the very same area.

HOW TO PLAN YOUR TRIP TO INDIA

– Our Life in India Guide (General information about the country: what kind of place is it for travelers, religion, caste system, misconceptions about cleanliness and everything you need to know before you go)
– Our India Travel Guide (budget, route, alerts, as well as suggestions and preparation tips before you go)

TOP THINGS TO DO IN MUMBAI

Some incredible works of architecture were left by the British, and it is fascinating to see these buildings as an example of the presence they felt in the subcontinent, but what is most fascinating here is neither the architecture, nor the history, but the socio-economic contrasts in the modern city. To witness this, we recommend three particular things to do in Mumbai.

1. Mumbai’s Most Famous: The World’s Largest Laundrette: Dhobi Ghat

If you have only one day to get your filll out of things to do in Mumbai, we certainly recommend visiting Dhobi Ghat, located right next to the Mahalaxmi Train Station. The site was built during the time of the Raj in 1890, and is the world’s largest launderette – a remarkable site, for sure.

The Dhobis, as they are called, have worked this profession for generations, and clean the towels, bed sheets, and linen for Mumbai’s biggest hotels and hospitals. Each worker takes a cleaning stone, and uses it to scrub each fabric one by one. Over 7000 people per say work here for 18-20 hours at a time washing over 100,000 items over the course of the day. Some of the launderette’s biggest clients include confectioners, hotels, clubs, and restaurants. Top of the list of things to do in Mumbai as a visitor is to watch the dhobis of Dhobi Ghat at work. The best times are early in the morning, when washing is in full swing, and towards sundown, when the items are hung out to dry.

2. Asia’s Biggest Slum: Dharavi

Second on our list of things to do in Mumbai is to explore Asia’s largest slum, Dharavi, home to over a million residents. In our view, this is far more fascinating than the launderette, but most people seem to prefer the latter. You won’t find a more brimming place than Dharavi in your lifetime. You can see areas where metals and plastics from all over the world are sent and separated, and watch the sun rise and set over the tin roofs of the hovels. You can also contribute to the health and economy of the area by grabbing a bite to eat from one of the local shacks. Tours lasting 2.5 hours are also available. For details on those, check out: Reality Tours

3. Live the Bollywood Life

Mumbai is very much the LA of India, home of the world’s biggest movie industry. Most visitors look forward to the chance to bump into one of India’s big Bollywood stars, and if it’s going to happen anywhere it will probably be here. You even have the chance to attend the set of a Bollywood movie or Indian TV drama if you are here, and enjoy watching the amazing choreography. Mumbai’s biggest film studio’s are generally located at complexes near the Sanjay Gandhi National Park. This huge complex, built in 1911, is the largest in the country, and a variety of tours are available. You can check them all out at this site.

Become a Bollywood Star

Of all things to do in Mumbai, the luckiest visitors are actually cast in a Bollywood movie themselves. The studios are always looking for foreigners to populate the background of scenes set in other countries. This hasn’t escaped the knowledge of many visitors, who arrive on Coloba Causeway waiting for a call. But you might have to wait a while, because the work never stops on set.

4. Three Icons of the City

Of all things to do in Mumbai, the three above are no doubt top of the list. As for the rest, it really depends on how much time you have, unless you would rather tour India’s other countless places of interest. The next part of our article describes the rest of the sites the city has on offer. If you have time, be sure to check them out.

If you have Time…

5. Pose in the Hipster Kala Ghoda Area

The area between Coloba and Fort is home to colonial architecture from the 1860s, as well as many cafes, museums, and art galleries. Think of this as Mumbai’s Shoreditch, The Village, or Brera – the cool, hip, happening place. Check out the galleries and designer stores before choosing from a wealth of lunchtime eateries. You might like to try a staple of local cuisine for 50 years, the Trishna fish restaurant, and sample its famous garlic butter crabs. February sees the Kala Ghoda Festival take place here, when all traffic is closed off from the area to make way for exhibitions from India’s latest up-coming artists.

If you are looking for things to do in Mumbai that expose you to contemporary art, then this is the place to explore, but bear in mind that India’s biggest art hub is undoubtedly Delhi. For more info, click on our Delhi page.

6. Attend the Ganesh Festival

In terms of events, many things to do in Mumbai fall alongside religious and national festivals. Ganesh Chaturthi is a ten-day festival that takes place in August and September in the name of the elephant headed god, Ganesh. The Hindu faithful gather on these days to pay respects to one of their religion’s central deities, concluding with the dropping of a giant statue of Ganesh off the coast of the Chowpatty area, praying for his return. The idea of this ceremony is to send Ganesh away carrying the sins of the year with him. This year’s Ganesh Festival takes place between 2-12 September 2019.

Note: Don’t forget that this is the hottest period of the year in India, so it could be a bad time to visit if you can’t handle the heat.

We suggest you read about Religion in India and What Hinduism is here.

7. Tour the Markets of Colaba

Colaba, at Mumbai’s southernmost point, is a vibrant and bustling, albeit striped down, commercial hub full of interesting bazaars and bars and is the best place to start out on the hunt for things to do in Mumbai. The best time to be there is around five in the morning, when the fishing boats set off from Sassoon quay to seek bombil in the bay waters. The area has a number of interesting sites on the outskirts, such as Gateway of India, Taj Mahal Palace, and the Tower.

8. Head to Elephanta Island

From the Gateway of India, you can board a boat for 100 – 150 rupees, any time between 9am and 3pm between Tuesday and Sunday, and head towards the UNESCO-protected Elephanta Island. The island is home to a giant statue of one of Hinduism’s top three gods, Shiva, and a basalt cave temple, which was carved into the rocks in the 15th century and exploring the caverns is top of many lists of things to do in Mumbai. The caves can be found a short ten minute walk from where the boats are tied. You arrive at the cave by traversing 200 steps. Visitors are greeted with women carrying water via traditional means. Of course, the place is teeming with people looking to cash in on a photo opportunity. The island is also home to 10,000 monkeys – so this is definitely a place to keep your camera on you (just make sure it stays out of reach of the monkeys). In the month of February, the island is also host to a celebration of classical music and dance, the Elephanta Festival.

9. Watch Cricket in Azad Square, Cross Square, and Oval Square Kriket

If you thought cricket was just game with two teams of eleven playing with a ball and a stick, you’re wrong. In India, the game is like a religion. For residents, one of the top things to do in Mumbai on the weekend is to play cricket or football at the city’s centrally-located Azad, Oval, and Cross Squares.  Of course, you’ll also see people enjoying yoga, jogging, and simply chilling out here, too. The triangular Azad Square is particularly keen on hosting cricket matches between local schools.

10. Catch a Bicycle Tour

Biking is also a great idea in India – as long as you avoid the chaos of rush hour times. When the evening breeze arrives and Mumbai gets a little calmer, this is the best time cycle along marveling at the lights of the city. Reality Tours offer a bunch of things to do in Mumbai, and organize bicycle routes for 15 euros to join. The tours generally start out at the Gateway of India monument and pass by the Taj Mahal Palace, the Asiatic Society Library, Chatrapati Shivaji Station, Zaveri Market, Banganga Tank, the Zorastrian Tower of Silence, the world’s most expensive home, the Antilia Building, the colorful Jain Temple, the shrine of Haji Ali, and the Worli Castle.

11. Sunset on the Chowpatty Shores

This is the heart of Mumbai’s nightlife scene, but worth avoiding in the day time, as the coastline is visibly quite polluted. What may once have been a beautiful beach area is now unfortunately full of litter. But when the sun goes down, the surrounding area is full of glitzy food stalls and if you are looking for things to do in Mumbai in the evening, it’s a great spot to explore. Whatever you do, make sure you enjoy a stroll up Marine Drive. Click here for location.

12. Explore Colonial History at the Fort Area

This area contains most of the art-deco buildings left by the British from the time of the Raj, a former center that now serves as the home of the city’s finance industry. The area lends its name from the fortress built by the East India Company and hosts the Victoria Terminus Train Station, Kala Ghoda, Azad Square and a number of other famous sites meaning visitors can tick a number of points off their list of things to do in Mumbai here.

13. Arrive in Time for the Holi Festival

The most colorful of Hindu holy days, the March Holi festival, is no-one enjoyed better than in big cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Jaipur, as outside these big centers, the festival takes a more traditional, humble form. If you are looking for a Holi where paint bombs are thrown in their millions accompanied DJs pump in music, then there are plenty of things to do in Mumbai here. The Holi season is accompanied by pool parties and stadium events across the city. More information is available on this page.

14. Discover the Chor Bazaar Flea Market

This historic bazaar forms the largest flea market in the city. According to local legend, the Chor Bazaar, or “Thieves’ Bazaar”, and is apparently where you should go before the police when something that belongs to you has been stolen! The market has been in place for 150 years, and is where a successful bid was supposedly made on a ship that was lost by Queen Victoria on its foray to the subcontinent. All sorts of items are available here, from valuable antiques to second-hand car parts – so if shopping is top of your list of things to do in Mumbai, you’re in luck!

15. Kick Back Mumbai-Style on Juhu Beach

Juhu has a shoreline as famous as that of Chowpatty. The area is a draw for visitors from across the world and is frequented by joggers, sunbathers, swimmers, groups of friends playing football or cricket, picnickers, yogis, and cyclists. Most popularly visited during sunset hours, horse riding is one of the most popular activities on the beach. There are also huts where you can have henna decorate your hands, and plenty of eateries selling aloo tikki, paani puri, pav bhaji and other street foods.

16. Walk Along Marine Drive

Marine Drive is known as the “Queen’s Necklace” because when the sun sets, the dazzling lights along the strip make it appear as a bejeweled string of beads. The drive is the most popular place for residents looking for things to do in Mumbai and is full of families out with their kids, couples enjoying a walk; friends out snacking. For us, the most interesting time was at 6am, on return to Central Park, when the city’s financiers, business moguls, and office bigwigs are all out jogging around the area. The road is dotted with art-deco buildings from the 1920s and 30s, so enjoy snapping your way through before stopping off for a chai and Street snack like roasted chestnuts. Sunset is also a great time to be around here. Plus, cricket fans will want to pay respects to the nearby Wankhede Stadium.

17. Enjoy a Sunset Boat Tour

Gazing out from a boat toward the famous Gateway of India monument, glass of wine in hand and snacks by your side, is one of the sweetest of things to do in Mumbai – not least as it gives you a little respite from the maddening crowds. Check out the trips offered by the Ocean Blue yacht company.

18. The Street Food is Pretty Popular, But We Don’t Recommend

Don’t say we didn’t warn you, but when it comes to food, India has certain issues. Few people visit without falling ill at some point, and street food is normally the culprit. You don’t want to waste your limited holiday days in bed, after all, so in our view, don’t fall to the temptation of street food. Be sure to check this out in greater detail in our Tour Guide of India.

If you do decide to put a food tour on your list of things to do in Mumbai, however, the popular tour begins at the Chowpatty Beach and continues until sunset, with visits to dahi puri, pani puri,  pav bhaji stalls, as well as India’s famous iced dairy dessert, kulfi. Khau gallis, or food bazaars, can be found all over the city. The khau galli in the lively Muslim area around Muhammed Ali Street is full of non-vegetarian choices, such as kebab and chicken tikka. A jalebi dessert is always recommended to cap off a good meal. Click on the Reality Tours website for more details.

THINGS TO DO IN MUMBAI

Here are some of the city’s biggest attractions, with the top of the list undoubtedly capped with the Gateway of India, the Taj Mahal Palace, and Victoria Train Station.

The Gateway of India

This colonial victory monument based on 16th century Islamic designs looks out over the local port. The monument was order by King George V after his 1911 visit, and completed in 1924. The arch serves as a favorite meeting place for locals and is an ideal tourist spot. The boats leaving for Elephanta Island are also located here. Click for location.

The Taj Mahal Palace Hotel

The subject of an entire National Geographic documentary, this hotel serves as a symbol of India’s riches and power. The hotel has hosted countless famous names, from President Obama to Angelina Jolie, has 560 rooms and 44 suites, and is staffed by 1600 people, including 35 butlers. This grand piece of architecture, built in 1903 and combining Renaissance and Islamic influences is effortlessly charming, but unfortunately was the site of a prolonged terror attack in 2008 that saw the deaths of 170 people. A stay might be devastating for your wallet, but admiring from outside is one of the most popular things to do in Mumbai. The palace is located right next to the Gateway of India. Click for location.

Chhatrapati Shivaji (Victoria) Train Station

This station displays the greatest example of Gothic architecture in the city. If the Taj Mahal marks the crowning architectural heritage of Moghul power in the subcontinent, the Chhatrapati Shivaji Train Station is perhaps the equivalent for the British Raj. The structure, which combines Hindu, Islamic, and Victorian styles, was opened for service in 1887 and remains the grandest of its kind in Asia and thus earned UNESCO protection in 2004.  Click here for location.

Prince of Wales Museum

This museum, whose design blends Indian and British architectural influences, is undoubtedly the most expansive in Mumbai. Items displayed include Hindu and Buddhist Statuesterracotta figures from the Indus Valley, miniatures, weapons, and ceramics. As not all items are displayed with descriptions, it’s better to get a guided tour. Entry fee: 300 rupees, photo and video 1000 rupees. Open every day except Monday between 10.15-16.00. Click for location.

Those interested in modern art and international contemporary art works ought to make their way to the National Modern Art Gallery. Click here for location. Alternatively, the Jehangir Art Gallery is a good place for those looking for arty things to do in Mumbai. Click here for location.

Keneseth Eliyahoo Synagogue

This sky blue synagogue was built in 1884 and is still in active use by the city’s Jewish residents. Its stained glass windows, colorful columns, and chandeliers make it an extremely impressive site. Click here for location.

The High Court

This Neo-Gothic structure, built in 1848, is a symbol of the Indian court system and, as such, carries the emblem of the one-eyed monkey – an allegory of justice. You can enter the building, inspired by Teutonic castles in its design, and even sit down to watch a public case in progress. Click for location.

Mumbai University

This French Gothic style university looks almost church-like and is the work of Gilbert Scott, the architect behind London’s Saint Pancras Station. Visitors can enter both the library and main hall. Click for location.

Saint Thomas’ Cathedral

This cathedral, whose construction began in 1672 but wasn’t completed until 1718, is the oldest example of English architecture in the city. An interesting mix of colonial and Byzantine architecture, the cathedral has recently been restored and is a great site for those looking for historical things to do in Mumbai. Click for location.

The Money Museum

This museum features examples of currency from throughout Indian history, from the sixth century BC, to those used in Indian-European trade, and the Gandhi-laiden notes in current circulation. The museum also features the world’s smallest recorded coinages. Open between 10.45-17.15. Entry is 10 rupees. Click for location.

Mani Bhawan

The home Gandhi resided in during his stay in Mumbai from 1917-1934 has since been transformed into a museum. The house he stayed in with his close friend Revashankar Jagjeevan Jhaveri served as a command post during his years of pacifist protest. It was from here that Gandhi’s 1932 campaign of Civil Disobedience was born. The museum contains photographs as well as correspondence since to the likes of Adolf Hitler and Franklin D Roosevelt and is another treasure for those looking for history-related things to do in Mumbai. Click for location.

Babulnath Temple

This 12th century building is the oldest in the city. Dedicated to the god Shiva, the temple was long-since abandoned and much excavation work was needed to recover it to its original form. It was reopened for worship in the 18th century. Click for location.

Nehru Center

The Nehru Center is dedicated to Pandit Cevahirlal Nehru, a towering figure in the Independence Movement and the country’s first president. The monument and information center was built in 1972 and also functions as a planetarium and function center. Click for location.

The Tomb of Haji Ali

This mausoleum lies on an island 500 meters out from the coast and is one of the most sacred Muslim sites in the city. Legend has it that Haji Ali was a rich local merchant during the 15th century, who parted with all his wealth to leave for Mecca. He unfortunately did not return alive, but his body was found washed on the shores of the island. It was then that a mausoleum was built that now serves as a shrine and is connected to the mainline via a concrete walkway. Click for location.

Antilla Building

This rather atrocious building is the world’s largest private residence, and at two billion dollars, is popularly tagged as the most expensive home in the world. Owned by the fifth richest man in the world, Mukesh Ambani, the 173 meter tall structure is made up of 27 floors, the first six of which house Ambani’s collection of 168 cars. The 7th houses quarters for his personal car service. The house is complete with its own spa, a number of pools, and a ball hall. The Ambani family live on the highest floor below three helicopter decks. The building has a staff of 600 and can withstand earthquakes of up to 8 on the Richter scale. Click for location.

BEST AREA TO STAY IN MUMBAI

The Colaba area is the best hotel location. Here are a few suggestions;

The Taj Mahal Palace

Those who fancy nothing short of a palatial visit ought to try the Taj Mahal Palace, the city’s most luxurious hotel. Click for more details and booking information

The Oberoi

The Oberoi is located at the end of Marine Drive, and offers sea-view rooms, clean service, and a quality restaurant with five-star luxury. Click for details and booking information.

Abode Otel

It’s rather hard to find boutique hotels in Mumbai, but this 20 room establishment in Coloba is the first of its kind in the city. The colonial building, kitted out with vintage furnishings, is a sumptuous location for those after a special place to stay . Click for details and booking information

Hostel Mantra

A centrally located hostel popular with backpackers. Breakfast is included. Click for details and booking infomation

Other Indian Hotels

For more Indian hotels, click here.

DINING IN MUMBAI

Indian restaurants outside of India generally specialize in Northern Indian cuisine of a specifically Mughal heritage, including curries, kebabs, and naan breads – and the main cities and tourist centers, such as Mumbai, all serve these classics and more. Here you can find regional delicacies from Goa, Kerela, Kashmir, the Bengal region, and more. However, due to its huge range of street food and wealth of food stands and markets, Mumbai is most famed for its snacks. Vada pav, pani puri, bhel puri, sev puri, dahi puri, dosa, pav bhaji, misal pav… All are available on every street corner – just bear in mind our warnings!

Indigo

Indigo by name and indigo by nature, this bar is recommended as one of the best bars to visit in the world. The establishment serves an eclectic mix of European and Asian treats – with the spicy Thai dishes being definitely worth checking out. Address: 4, Mandlik Rd, Colaba, Behind Taj Mahal Hotel. Website Tel: +91 22 6636 8999 Click for location.

Woodside Inn

The Woodside Inn is an English-style pub that stands as a remnant of British influence on the city. Known for its musical and comedy nights, the pub hosts cultural activities like drinking evenings attended by food bloggers and famous chefs. Address: Indian Mercantile Mansion, Wodehouse Road, Opposite Regal Cinema, Colaba Causeway, Colaba. Tel:+91 22 2287 5752 Click for location.

Tote on the Turf

Designed by one of India’s foremost architects, Kapi Gupta, Tote on the Turf is ideal for cocktails. Address: Gate No. 5 & 6, Mahalaxmi Race Course Website Tel: +91 22 6157 7777 Click for location.

NIGHT LIFE IN MUMBAI

Mumbai is the city that never sleeps, with some amazing options when it comes to partying.

R’Adda

R’Adda, located on the terrace of the Ramee Guestline Hotel is the best place to party in the city. With a new theme every night, the club entertains with amazing cocktails, and snacks including pizza, chicken sandwiches, and mini burgers. Address: 3, Ramee Guestline Hotel, AB Nair Road, Juhu Tel: +91 98337 51034 Click for location.

Aer

AER is a bar and lounge located on the 34th floor of the Four Seasons Hotel where visitors can grab a cocktail and look out over the Arabian Sea and a panoramic view of the city. It’s a little pricey, but worth every rupee. This is particularly popular with Mumbaikars for after work drinks on Fridays. Address: 1/136, 34th Floor, Dr. E. Moses Road, Worli Tel: 91 22 2481 8444 Click for location.

Drop

DROP is a pretty high energy club. It has wide open sitting spaces, a warm atmosphere, and an extensive bar. The club serves mostly European dishes. Address: No.G1/B, Krystal Building, Below Hakkasan, Waterfield Road, Bandra West Tel:+91 22 4229 6000 Click for location.

TRAVELING THROUGH INDIA?

Plus, if your plans change, and you end up with more time, our Indian Travel Guide will put you in the right direction for things to do in Mumbai and the subcontinent at large.

WHERE IS MUMBAI?

Mumbai is the largest city along India’s western, Arabian Sea coast.

Flights between Mumbai – Delhi take two hours.
Trains between Mumbai – Udaipur cover the 760 kilometer journey in around 13 hours.
A Vivek Express train from Mumbai to Jodhpur takes just over 16 hours.

TRAVEL TO MUMBAI

Planes fly to Mumbai’s Chatrapati Shivaji International Airport’a (CSIA) from all over the world, and direct flights are available from most major cities. Regular internal flights also run daily to and from the capital. When you arrive, you have a number of options for getting to the center. Taxis to the Colaba area, for instance, will set you back around 500-700 rupees and can be arranged inside the terminal building. Shuttles are also available going to various parts of the city, and these work out much cheaper and tourist tickets can also cover transit across various forms of public transport in the city across the day of arrival.

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Hope you enjoyed our list of things to do in Mumbai. For our other city guides, you can check our India Travel Guide.

The post THINGS TO DO IN MUMBAI – GUIDE TO GET LOCAL appeared first on Biz Evde Yokuz.

One of the new seven wonders of the world and, for a lot of people, the first thing that comes to mind when they think of India, the Taj Mahal has been on the UNESCO’s World Cultural Heritage List since 1982 as the “jewel of Muslim art in India and one of the universally admired masterpieces of the world’s heritage.”

The Story of the Taj Mahal: A Great Love

The Taj Mahal is the most expensive declaration of love: it cost $1,062,834,098! 

Just like many other masterpieces, that became a gift to the entire human civilization. The story of the Taj Mahal is a love story. Some believe that it is a Hindu temple, and some believe that it is a mosque with four minarets, but the Taj Mahal is actually a mausoleum built by Shah Jahan for his much-adored wife, Mumtaz Mahal. In today’s terms, he spent $1,062,834,098 on it!

Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal had a “marriage of love.”  Apart from Mumtaz Mahal, Shah Jahan had two other wives but these marriages were products of political alliances. It is said that his marriage with his other 2 wives were just a “procedural requirement,” and that Shah Jahan was only romantically involved with Mumtaz Mahal.

From arranged marriage to romance

Interestingly, their fathers had set up the marriage when they were 14 and 15 years old. They got married five years later, and were together for 20 years. Mumtaz Mahal gave birth to 14 children, but only eight survived. The historical record shows there was abundant love between Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal, a love filled with great desire and affection for one another.

Shah Jahan was the type of leader who entrusted his wife with his personal and governmental matters. He even gave her the right to use his seal. But Mumtaz Mahal did not like politics very much, so she didn’t have much to do with the operations of the state, though she did go on trips with her husband.

She died while giving birth on one of these trips before reaching the age of 40. Shah Jahan had her temporarily buried in a beautiful garden, and he fell  into a depression. He got back on his feet a year later, through his daughter’s efforts.

Completed in 22 Years with the Help of 20,000 Workers

The story of the Taj Mahal is also one of incredible engineering: It is considered to be a marvel by engineers. It was built on the swamps along the banks of the Yamuna River. It is said that it was built here because Shah Jahan wanted to be able to see his wife from his palace.  To prevent the structure from sinking and sliding, he had to create a firm ground. So he had a huge whole dug,  stabilized rocks inside it, then built from this base.

Architects even took precautions in case of an earthquake. They made the towers in such a way that they would not sway during a tremor and damage the building.

The building itself was constructed using white marble and was completed in 1632. It is adorned with rubies, sapphires, diamonds, emeralds, pearls and mother-of-pearl.

Pakistan Threatened India to Bomb the Taj Mahal

The Brits split India three ways based on religious denomination – first into two (India and Pakistan), and then into three (with Bangladesh), which resulted in heightened tensions. During the war in the 70s, Pakistan threatened to bomb the Taj Mahal, so the airspace above the building was closed.

Relations between the two countries remain tense today, and violent altercations pop up now and then. If you want to find out more information about India, then you can head over to our post on the country.

Know before you go: When you visit the Taj Mahal, there are serious security measures in place even today as you enter the palace. You won’t be able to bring in cologne, sunscreen or a tripod. They don’t even allow selfie sticks. You’re allowed to bring your camera in with you, but you aren’t allowed to take any other equipment.

Tips On Visiting Taj Mahal

• Lines: There are different lines for local and tourists. Don’t go into the wrong line.
• Ticket costs: There are two tariffs, a “High-Value Ticket” and a “General Value Ticket.” Tourists buy the “High-Value Ticket,” which is more expensive, but there’s less of a wait.
• Photo ops: As soon as you enter, you’ll see a group of people who are trying to take photos right across from the Taj Mahal. Everyone is concentrated here, but there is a platform in the middle of the reflection pool that is calmer and, we think, nicer.
• Souvenir photos: You’ll also see some guys who are taking photos and have a printer in their backpacks. They will try to sell you different services that have nothing to do with the Taj Mahal, so you can use your own judgement for this one.
• Limited photography: It’s not forbidden to take photos and videos inside, except for the domed section where the tombs of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal are located.
• Best time to visit: Definitely try to come during sunrise as the light during this time of day is ideal for photos AND because there won’t be as many people.
• Second-best time: If you cannot come at sunrise, our second recommendation is sunset.

Hours to visit the Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal is open every day except Friday, from sunrise to sunset. Tourists can stay as long as they want.

On Friday, only the mosque is open in the afternoons for Friday prayers.

Entry Fee & Where to Buy Tickets

There are three ticket points for those who want to buy tickets at the door. The west gate, the east gate (these two doors are open from sunrise to sunset), and the south gate (This box office is open from 8 am – 7 pm). However, we recommend buying a ticket online before going: asi.payumoney.co

The entry fee for a standard ticket is 1,000 Rupees. There are also all-day tours that cover all of Agra. These tours should include the Taj Mahal, the Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri and run from 10:30 am – 4:30 pm, costing 450 Rupees for children and 3,000 for adults.

There are also night tours. You’ll have to buy your ticket for the tour one night before from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) 22, Mall Road, Agra. You can purchase tickets from 10 am – 6 pm here. But make sure to check when the tours are, as they only happen five nights per month.

These tours are scheduled to fall on two days before, during and two days after the full moon. During those days, the tours happen from 8:30 pm to 12:30 am. Between these hours, a new tour starts every 30 minutes, and each tour has a limit of 50 people. The cost for this is 750 Rupees for a full ticket and 500 Rupees for a child. Of course, these prices are different for locals.

The Other Story of the Taj Mahal: Inside The Structure

The Taj Mahal is not just a shrine but a massive complex that has other buildings in it. You’ll want to set aside 1-1.5 hours to go around inside and half an hour for other things like picking up your ticket and going through security.

The massive structure you see in the above photo is the entry gate. The reflection pool goes from the gate to the Taj Mahal.

The Taj Mahal – which consists of the main gate, the mausoleum, the mosque, and the guest house – is considered to be the best example of Indian-Islamic architecture. This excellence in architecture is based on the rhythmic combination between convex and concave, shade and illumination, arched and domed, as well as how spaces are used.

The Taj Mahal, which is a 305 by 580-meter rectangular structure, has a dome that measures 35 meters high. The sarcophagi of Mumtaz Mahal and Shah Jahan are located on the top floor under the dome, but the actual graves are on the bottom floor. The dome has its own acoustics, and sounds are said to echo seven times.

The addition of precious and semi-precious stones to the interior of the building doubles its value. There are 42 emeralds, 142 rubies, 625 diamonds and 50 pearls as well as thousands of onyx, mother-of-pearl and turquoise pieces.

The real magnificence of the Taj Mahal comes from the surrounding garden and landscape. The four minarets surrounding the Taj Mahal provide a 3D effect, which is unprecedented in Mughal architecture. The grand main gate was influenced by architecture trends in Iran at the time. You can also make out this emphasis in the symmetry as well.

The Mughal Reign in India, a.k.a Everything is Turkish

Inheritors of the Timurid Empire

Maybe your first sighting of the Taj Mahal was in a history book, or a poster painting at an Indian restaurant or even a Hollywood movie like “The Fall” or “Slumdog Millionaire.” Though the site is truly Indian, Turkish people love to lay claim to history’s wonders, so of course, we’ve found our connection to the story of the Taj Mahal! The Mughals, who ruled from 1500 to 1850, were part of one of the 16 Turkic states established in the region. Mughals can be considered to be of Turco-Mongol origin since they were the continuation of the Timurid Empire, which was a Turco-Mongol empire comprising modern-day Iran.

The Mughals governed an enormous empire covering Pakistan and India for nearly 200 years. Agra was the capital of this empire.

Babur, who was the founder of the Mughal Empire, took control at the age of 11 when the Timurid Empire disintegrated. Babur decided that the best way to grow the empire was by going south and decided to set up shop in India.

Mughal State established in Agra

Babur captured Agra and Delhi, making Agra the center of the Mughal state. Babur was able to capture the northern part of India to consolidate his dominance, but then he passed away in 1530 due to illness. Before he died, he passed his power onto his son, Humayun.

During Humayun’s rule, he strengthened the state by providing central authority, which dealt with revolts at that time. Political stability and cultural unity began to be established in the lands of India. Akbar, who was Humayun’s son and came to power at the age of 14, made quite successful conquests during his reign, tolerated other religions in the country, strengthened the economy and left a strong state to his son Jahangir. The Jahangir period is when we begin to see the Persian and Muslim influence.

The Rise & Fall of Tolerance

The most visible sign of development in Shah Jahan’s period was through architecture, particularly the Taj Mahal and the Friday Masjid in Delhi. Unfortunately, the tolerance seen during Akbar’s rule didn’t last long, and we begin to see pressure to convert to Islam as well as rising nationalism.

Particularly during Aurangzeb’s rule – who is regarded as the last effective Mughal emperor – religious ceremonies for Hindus were forbidden, their temples were destroyed, alcohol was banned and non-Muslims were taxed beginning in 1679. It should be no surprise that all these developments triggered rebellions and established the foundation for the end of the empire.

We suggest you read about Religion in India and What Hinduism is here.

Enter the British

After Aurangzeb, order in the country was effectively destroyed. The Mughals remained as pawns under the British until the 1850s, even after the country was completely under British rule. The last ruler, Bahadur Shah Zafar, was condemned in 1857 after he rebelled against the British. When the Shah’s seat of power fell, the Mughal Empire officially came to an end. We also described the influence of the British over India during this period in our writings on India during the period of British Administration and Colonialism.

Where is the Taj Mahal?

The Taj Mahal is located in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India.  Click here for the location.

Getting there: How to Visit the Taj Mahal

Flying

The best way to get to Agra is through New Delhi, as you’re unlikely to find direct international flights. However, even Air India does not have direct flights to Agra, and you’ll have to stopover at Varanasi. Thus, it makes more sense to hop onto a train from New Delhi to Agra. You can choose from the Shatabdi Express, Rajdhani Express and Superfast Express. For a train ride in India, it’s a relatively short one: only 2 – 2 1/2 hours.

Doing the Golden Triangle by Train

Agra, New Delhi and Jaipur make up the golden triangle tourist circuit in India. People who want to do the golden triangle usually start in Delhi, go to Agra and finish their tour in Jaipur. One of the most popular trains is the Shatabadi Express to take this route. The Superfast Express goes between Jaipur and Agra and takes about 4 hours from one city to the other.

Planning a trip to India?

– Our  Life in India Guide  (General information about the country. What kind of place is it for travelers, religion, caste system, misconceptions about cleanliness and everything you need to know before you go)
– Our India Travel Guide (budget, route, alerts, as well as suggestions and preparation tips before you go)

For those of you who don’t have a lot of time in India, we recommend doing the Golden Triangle tourism circuit, which includes the Taj Mahal and its city. Click for other places to visit in Agra. We’ve also written about two other stops on the Golden Triangle: Jaipur & Delhi.

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