Delhi

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The National Capital Territory of Delhi has served as the central region for many empires. There are plenty of sites to explore, a good number of which have heritage site designation. Delhi is the place where travelers can develop a deeper understanding of India's rich culture and traditions.

The National Capital Territory of Delhi has served as the central region for many empires. There are many myths and legends surrounding its formation that go back to as early as 50 BCE. Since that time, the city has grown into a mixture of historic and modern, which reflects the distinctions of Old Delhi and New Delhi, which serves as the capital of India.

There are plenty of sites to explore, a good number of which have heritage site designation. Delhi is the place where travelers can develop a deeper understanding of India's rich culture and traditions.
<h2>1. Qutub Minar</h2>
Standing at 240 feet, the Qutub Minar is a historic example of Indo-Islamic architecture. Built by Qutb ud-Din Aibak, founder of the Mamluk Dynasty, construction started in 1192 and was finished in 1220 by successor Shams-ud-din-Iltutmish, ten years after Aibak's death. For some, it was a symbol of the beginning of Muslim rule in India, while others say it was a minaret. Several other buildings surround Qutub Minar, including a mosque and a tomb. It's open from sunrise to sunset and is free for children 15 years and younger.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1014026" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/03/shutterstock_1226674177.jpg" alt="new Delhi" width="1000" height="668" />


<h2>2. Red Fort</h2>
Known as Qila-e-Mubarak, many people may not realize that the Red Fort was originally built with white sandstones and was painted red when the stone started chipping. The fort took a decade for Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan to build, and it was the residence of the Mughal Emperors for more than 200 years until the trial of the last emperor, Bahadur Shah Zafar.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1014027" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/03/shutterstock_161305583.jpg" alt="old Delhi" width="1000" height="631" />


<h2>3. Chandni Chowk</h2>
Known as Moonlight Square, the Chandni Chowk is one of the oldest markets in Delhi. It was built by Shah Jahan and designed by his daughter, Princess Jahanara in 1650. Its name comes from the pool at its center that shimmered in the moonlight. Chandni Chowk was originally divided by canals and had over 1,500 shops spread along 1,520 yards. These days, in addition to shops that sell clothing and books, it's famous for its variety of authentic foods, especially sweets.

<img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-1014039" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/03/shutterstock_762394801-1-1024x681.jpg" alt="Delhi" width="1024" height="681" />


<h2>4. Jantar Mantar</h2>
Located in New Delhi, Jantar Mantar was built by Maharaja Jai Singh II at the request of Mughal emperor Muhammad Shah, who wanted to revise the calendar and astronomical tables. It was built in 1724, and for seven years, daily data was collected, calculated and sent to the emperor, until the surrounding construction of tall buildings made readings inaccurate. Jantar Mantar is one of 13 astronomical instruments. It's open daily, from 6 am to 6 pm.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1014040" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/03/shutterstock_90472270.jpg" alt="what to do Delhi" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>5. Parliament House</h2>
Sansad Bhavan, Parliament House in New Delhi, was inaugurated in 1927 after six years of construction by the then-Governor General, Lord Irwin. It's a circular building with a Central Hall that's 98 feet in diameter, and it is the site of the Indian Constitution drafting. It also has a museum, which educates visitors on India's democratic history with the help of virtual reality and interactive computer screens. It's open from Tuesday to Saturday, from 11 am to 5 pm, and children enter free.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1014041" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/03/shutterstock_732048790.jpg" alt="what Delhi" width="1000" height="629" />


<h2>6. Safdarjung Tomb</h2>
Born Muhammad Muqim in-Khurasan in 1708, Safdarjung relocated to India from Persia and eventually became Prime Minister of Hindustan under Mughal Emperor Ahmad Shah Bahadur. But, court politics ousted him from the post, and from Delhi, in 1753 and he died the following year. The sandstone and marble construction materials help to depict the distinctive Mughal architectural style. The mausoleum has a square garden on each side with an enclosed three-domed mosque. It's open from sunrise to sunset and children 15 years and younger enter free.

[caption id="attachment_1013999" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/03/951083430-1024x914.jpg" alt="tombs Delhi" width="1024" height="914" /> pinaki1 / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>7. Gurudwara Bangla Sahib</h2>
Gurudwara Bangla Sahib is the largest Sikh temple in Delhi. It also serves 10,000 free, cooked meals every day. In order to ascend the steps to the centuries-old golden shrine, visitors must cover their heads and dip their bare feet in the tank of water. Along with participating in prayers, everyone enjoys a sweet called karah parshad, and in the kitchen, volunteers prepare for the communal meal that includes rice, vegetable stew, and roti. All are welcome.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1014042" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/03/shutterstock_173671325.jpg" alt="sikh temple Delhi" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>8. Lotus Temple</h2>
The Lotus Temple is a Baha'i House of Worship that's open to all. The temple has nine clusters of three marble clad petals. There are nine openings that feed into the central hall, which has a capacity of 2,500 people. It's been open to the public since 1986 and has won several architectural awards and distinctions. By 2014, the temple had more than 100 million visitors.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1014043" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/03/shutterstock_257287441.jpg" alt="Delhi lotus" width="1000" height="625" />


<h2>9. Humayun's Tomb</h2>
Commissioned by Empress Bega Begum, the tomb of Mughal Emperor Humayun was the first structure to use many red sandstones at that scale. It's a 16th-century complex that was a marvel of architecture and set a precedent for subsequent buildings. It contains Humayun's tomb as well as that of subsequent Mughals, and a Char Bagh, which is a quadrilateral Persian-style garden. Its geometrical sandstone and marble inlay patterns and the integration of corbels, pendentive decorations, and chhatris make this tomb a prime example of Mughal architecture.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1014044" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/03/shutterstock_1255101985.jpg" alt="tomb Delhi" width="1000" height="599" />


<h2>10. Agrasen ki Baoli</h2>
Near Jantar Mantar in New Delhi is a protected monument known as the Agrasen ki Baoli. It's a 60-meter step well that was said to be originally built by Maharaja Agrasen during the Solar Dynasty. The only records about the possible origin of the step well were when it was rebuilt in the 14th century by the Agrawal community, which traced it back to Agrasen. The mystery behind its origins as well as its ancient architecture makes it a popular location for tourists and Bollywood films.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1014045" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/03/shutterstock_795896899.jpg" alt="Delhi" width="1000" height="667" />

Explore the History of India Through Delhi

India houses the oldest civilization in history, and some believe it contains the oldest continually surviving city. But besides being ancient, India is the world's largest cultural melting pot. The country is home to innumerable subcultures that put a unique twist on Indian culture, cuisine, and traditions.

India houses the oldest civilization in history, and some believe it contains the oldest continually surviving city. But besides being ancient, India is the world's largest cultural melting pot. The country is home to innumerable subcultures that put a unique twist on Indian culture, cuisine, and traditions. Its rich colonial history and the blend of European influences also remain to this day. In all, India is an extremely popular travel destination for good reasons.
<h2>Beautiful, Historic Delhi</h2>
Delhi is one of the largest storied cities in the world. You can start your trip with a visit to New Delhi, the urban district that serves as the capital of India. Then, you can head to Humayun's Tomb, an important part of Indian cultural and architectural history. The four-centuries-old UNESCO heritage site is a stunning feat of design and the first major product of red sandstone construction. A short bus trip out of the urban center takes you to the National Zoological Park, India's national zoo. It boasts an incredible diversity of wildlife from across India, housed in spacious enclosures.

[caption id="attachment_31997" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/541283954.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/541283954.jpg 1200w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/541283954-768x512.jpg 768w" alt="The main bazaar in New Delhi" width="1200" height="800" /> hadynyah / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>Mumbai, India's Beating Heart of Finance and Fashion</h2>
Mumbai occupies a cultural space similar to Chicago, Hollywood, and New York City rolled into one. It's an economic hub for the Indian finance industry, and it holds the most expansive film industry in India. It's an inevitable destination for dreamers, drifters, and would-be stars. Beyond that, it offers the starkest view of the stratification of Indian society. The most opulent millionaires live in the world's most expensive homes just a few hours drive from the largest slums in the nation. If you want to step away from the bustle of Mumbai life and into the tropical forest without leaving the city limits, take a trip to the beautiful Sanjay Gandhi National Park.

[caption id="attachment_31998" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/1078903962.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/1078903962.jpg 1200w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/1078903962-768x512.jpg 768w" alt="Mumbai in a single image" width="1200" height="800" /> GCShutter / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>Chennai, the Shining Star of South India</h2>
The capital of the state of Tamil Nadu is the flag bearer for South Indian culture, cuisine and history. Formerly known as Madras, the city has a rich history showcased in countless museums. The popular museum of Fort St. George once served as a trading post for the East India Company. Now, it offers a look back into the colonial history of India. The scents of South Indian cuisine and the warm, friendly people populating the city will be the first thing to hit you on a stroll through the streets of the city.

[caption id="attachment_31999" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/680199478.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/680199478.jpg 1200w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/680199478-768x512.jpg 768w" alt="Kapaleeswarar Temple in Chennai " width="1200" height="800" /> taniche / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>Agra, The Seat of Sultans and Emperors</h2>
While everyone has heard of the Taj Mahal, fewer Westerners know the city where it rests. It's the main draw for visitors to the city of Agra, but it's far from the only one. The great rulers who made Agra their capital have left their mark in the form of innumerable fortresses, palaces, and other monuments that remain even as the power they symbolized has faded. The city invites travelers to learn of its rich history in the Mughal Museum and many others.

[caption id="attachment_32000" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/866758116.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/866758116.jpg 1200w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/866758116-768x512.jpg 768w" alt="The Taj Mahal, Agra's leading tourist destination " width="1200" height="800" /> Instants / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>Jaipur, India's Liveliest City</h2>
Jaipur is a vibrant, colorful city with architecture that's as diverse as it is bright and bold. Nicknamed "The Pink City," Jaipur started as a project of the Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, who built the city to serve as his capital. The City Palace still houses his descendants, the former royal family, and stands as a principal tourist attraction of Jaipur. Beyond that, the streets of the pink city are always bustling and exciting, from the activity and life of bazaars to the markets where local farmers ply their produce.

[caption id="attachment_32001" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/157681991.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/157681991.jpg 1200w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/157681991-768x510.jpg 768w" alt="The entrance to the City Palace of Jaipur" width="1200" height="797" /> cinoby / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>Goa, a City with Two Rich Heritages</h2>
While the British controlled most of India for centuries, the Portuguese maintained control over Goa until the 1960s. As a result, Goa blends Portuguese and Indian influences and offers a unique subculture compared to the rest of India. Additionally, Goa boasts a healthy nightlife and some of the most beautiful beaches found throughout India.

[caption id="attachment_32002" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/482535523.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/482535523.jpg 1200w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/482535523-768x552.jpg 768w" alt="The breathtaking beaches of Goa" width="1200" height="862" /> MediaProduction / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>Srinagar and the Crown Jewel of Kashmir</h2>
Srinagar is the capital of Kashmir and an incredibly important city in the history of India and Pakistan. You can still feel the presence of the old Mughal Empire there, particularly in the sprawling Shalimar Bagh Garden. For nature lovers, Srinagar is home to the Dal Lake, also known as "Srinagar's Jewel" or "The Crown Jewel of Kashmir." The crystal clear waters of Dal Lake draw tourists and locals alike for relaxation amidst the mountains. Near Dal Lake, you can find the beautiful Indira Gandhi memorial, which commemorates India's first female prime minister.

[caption id="attachment_32003" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/899087286.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/899087286.jpg 1200w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/899087286-768x512.jpg 768w" alt="Lake Dal outside Srinagar " width="1200" height="800" /> guenterguni / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>The Medieval Town of Orchha</h2>
Orchha is a somewhat famous tourist destination for the more knowledgeable traveler. It almost appears to be insulated from the last millennia to such an extent you might see a prince or princess strolling down the cobbled streets. Orchha is home to many stunningly well-preserved artifacts and architectural works. The impressive Orchha Fort Complex is over five centuries old and marks the days that Orchha served as a stronghold of powerful kings. While those days are long gone, a walk through Orchha makes it feel much closer.

[caption id="attachment_32004" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/185257965.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/185257965.jpg 1200w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/185257965-768x527.jpg 768w" alt="The Jahangir Mahal Palace in Orchha" width="1200" height="824" /> prognone / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>Kolkata, Where India and England Meet</h2>
Unlike the ancient cities of India, Kolkata is relatively young. The East India Company founded it as a trading post. Later, it served as the administrative capital of the British Raj for over one hundred years. Kolkata is the single destination in India where English influence can be felt most strongly, and the city is famous for its wealth of colonial-era architecture. The city is one of India's most modern, with a thriving art scene and a strong allure among Indian intellectuals.

[caption id="attachment_32005" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/172356630.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/172356630.jpg 1200w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/172356630-768x527.jpg 768w" alt="The Victoria Memorial in Kolkata" width="1200" height="823" /> narvikk / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>Varanasi, the Quintessentially Indian City</h2>
Varanasi is the very picture of what you think of when you think 'India.' It's a lively, mystical city, and one of the great holy places of Hinduism. Many pilgrims come to the sacred waters of Varanasi on the Ganges River to atone for sins or to welcome their passing to the next life. The riverside is constantly teaming with ghats, places for recreation and religious fulfillment among the locals. The supremely narrow streets often prohibit most forms of transportation, but the sights of Varanasi deserve a long walk.

[caption id="attachment_32006" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/905049262.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/905049262.jpg 1200w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/905049262-768x512.jpg 768w" alt="Varanasi at sunrise" width="1200" height="800" /> stellalevi / Getty Images[/caption]

Get the Most Out of India in These Cities

India is one of the oldest, largest, and most populous nations on the planet. Ancient Hindu temples, Buddhist monasteries, and palaces built by Mughals welcome locals and tourists alike to admire them. While many languages are spoken here, Hindi and English are the most common.

India is one of the oldest, largest, and most populous nations on the planet. Ancient Hindu temples, Buddhist monasteries, and palaces built by Mughals welcome locals and tourists alike to admire them. If you want to visit this astounding country, remember that visitors need a visa. While many languages are spoken here, Hindi and English are the most common.
<h2>1. Stand in Awe of Akshardham</h2>
Built by over a thousand artists, this incredibly new structure stands as a celebration of Indian spirituality and culture. A temple serves as the main focus, but you can explore the various halls and wings to learn more about it. If you can time your visit so that you're able to witness the natural light show every day at sunset.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-24106" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/shutterstock_737261236.jpg" alt="Akshardham Temple in New Delhi, India. " width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>2. Watch a Bollywood Film</h2>
Bollywood films are known for featuring a mix of high drama, romance, and lavish song and dance performances. Theaters across the country screen these films, but the art deco movie palace Raj Mandir in Jaipur is the most famous venue for them. Most Bollywood films are made in a Hindi-Urdu dialect, but very popular films may be subtitled.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-24110" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/shutterstock_755444863.jpg" alt=" Raj Mandir Cinema is a famous movie theatre in Jaipur. " width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>3. Spend a Few Days with Animals in Need</h2>
The animal rescue Animal Aid Unlimited in Udaipur provides a home to abandoned or neglected dogs, cows, goats, and even monkeys. Workers are happy to provide tours, and visitors are welcome to volunteer for a day or longer. You can get make arrangements and arrive there via taxi or rickshaw.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-24112" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/shutterstock_1063762751.jpg" alt="Bengal tiger in Sajjangarh Biological Park, Udaipur, Rajasthan, India" width="1000" height="750" />


<h2>4. Take Kukki's Cave Painting Tour</h2>
Located in the Bundi region, these cave paintings are around 15,000 years old. Tours are conducted by Kukki, who stumbled across these paintings considered to be one of India's greatest cultural treasures. You can also view the extensive coin collection, a living testament to all the peoples who have passed through Bundi over the ages.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-24154" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/shutterstock_67359181.jpg" alt="A prehistoric cave painting in Bhimbetka -India , a world heritage site which shows men on their horses going out for hunting. " width="1000" height="664" />


<h2>5. Take a Meal at Darbar Sahib in Amritsar</h2>
It's easy to see the temple from a distance--the building is covered entirely in gold! This Sikh holy site, which dates to the 16th century, is open for believers of all faith traditions. As an expression of their faith, workers at the attached langar hall serve a free, vegetarian meal to all comers. Darbar Sahib is open from 4:00 am to 11:00 pm every day.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-24157" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/shutterstock_91162655.jpg" alt="Golden Temple/Darbar Sahib, the spiritual and cultural center of the Sikh religion, India" width="1000" height="642" />


<h2>6. Relax on Palolem Beach</h2>
Found in the Goa region, Palolem beach has white-sand beaches that stretch for miles. Rent a beach hut, or just take a day trip and stretch out on the sand. Go snorkeling, take a hike, or wait for the sun to go down and party with the locals.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-24158" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/shutterstock_570476782.jpg" alt="Palolem beach Southern Goa, India colorful sea front bungalows landscape " width="1000" height="666" />


<h2>7. Catch a Glimpse of a Big Cat</h2>
India is home to majestic tigers, Asiatic lions and three species of leopards. The government works hard to create preserves for all these cats, all of which are threatened species. Places like the Sasan Gir National Park or Kanchenjunga Nature Preserve give these animals a home, and you might see one if you book a tour or safari.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-24160" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/shutterstock_1188370081.jpg" alt="Asiatic lion (Panthera leo leo) in Gir Forest National Park in Gujarat (India) " width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>8. Hike the Himalayas</h2>
Mount Everest might be the most famous peak, but the Himalayas are a majestic range that stretch for miles upon miles. Hiking trails abound, offering adventures for both beginners and experienced mountaineers. Travel the Sikkim circuit and discover a new monastery at every stop, join celebrants on the Hemis Festival Trek, or explore the pine forests of Singalila. Each trail has its own challenges, so carefully research any route you plan to take.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-24163" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/shutterstock_230941027.jpg" alt="Beautiful landscape of Himalayas mountains " width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>9. Celebrate a Festival</h2>
Hindu practitioners celebrate many public festivals throughout the year, and people are welcome to join. In the fall celebrate Diwali, or the Festival of Lights, as over one million clay lamps illuminate the country. Holi, or the Festival of Colors, celebrates the beginning of springtime and the triumph of good over evil with splashes of brightly colored powder. Each region has its own separate calendar, so look into the places on your itinerary if you want to learn more about these festivals.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-24166" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/shutterstock_1465030097.jpg" alt="Rajasthan/India 03/21/2019 photo of Holi, the Hindu festival of colours" width="1000" height="677" />


<h2>10. Pay Respects at Mahabodhi</h2>
Believed to be the site where Buddha gained enlightenment, parts of this temple complex are over a thousand years old. The main spire stretches over one hundred feet into the air, and a venerated statue of Buddha is housed within. This is a holy site where Tibetan monks perform their daily devotions, so if you're visiting be respectful of your surroundings.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-24168" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/shutterstock_1249814458.jpg" alt="Buddhist Monks Sitting in front of a Mahabodhi Temple at bodhgaya in Bihar northeast India" width="1000" height="668" />


<h2>11. Climb the Stepwell at Chand Baori</h2>
Before the advent of modern plumbing, storing water in arid Rajasthan was a constant challenge. The solution was a stone-lined man-made well the size of a large pond, with a multitude of steps allowing people to walk to the current water level. Off to the side, the haveli allowed people to cool off. The stepwell at Chand Baori no longer stores water, but the structure is nonetheless stunning. Admission is free, but it's strongly suggested you tip the caretakers.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-24170" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/shutterstock_1041282199.jpg" alt="The famous Chand Baori Stepwell in the village of Abhaneri, Rajasthan, India" width="1000" height="563" />


<h2>12. Visit the Grove of a Single Tree</h2>
Banyan trees are known to extend their roots up to the sky, giving the appearance of trunks and branches. In the case of the Grand Banyan at the Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Garden in Kolkata, this tree covers over three and a half acres! Despite its size, the tree is quite delicate, so if you visit step carefully.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-24173" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/shutterstock_1438469954.jpg" alt="Scenic view of Indian banyan tree. Tree of Life, Amazing Banyan Tree" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>13. Go on a Tea Tour</h2>
India is one of tea's first homes, producing prized varieties such as Assam, Darjeeling, and, of course, chai. Tea lovers can book a 4 to 7-day tour that takes you all over the tea-growing regions of India. See where and how your favorite tea is grown; learn about how is tea is harvested and processed, and enjoy the highest-quality drinks the region has to offer.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-24174" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/shutterstock_1045954636.jpg" alt="Couple in love at tea plantation. Travel to Sri Lanka. Green tea plantations in the mountains. " width="1000" height="668" />


<h2>14. Get Creeped Out at Skeleton Lake</h2>
High in the Himalayan region of Roopkund, women sing a song about a mountain goddess whose temple was defiled. Enraged, the goddess hurled hailstones at the offenders, killing them all. In 1942, this legend became less of a story when a British army officer discovered a lake full of skeletons near this area. The skulls there showed signs of being hit by hard, blunt objects. If you plan to visit, prepare for a journey--there are no roads leading to Skeleton Lake, so schedule a three to four-day hike.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-24181" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/shutterstock_1127718413.jpg" alt="Glacier Lake - Roopkund " width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>15. Shop the Anjuna Flea Market</h2>
After exploring a country suffused with history, you might enjoy the chance to experience something a little newer. The Anjuna Flea Market opened in the 1960s in Goa; now it sells spices, incense, carved crystals, jewelry, and other goods. The market is open every Wednesday, October through May, sunrise to sunset.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-24183" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/shutterstock_236059957.jpg" alt=" Goa Night Market on February 22, 2014, Goa, India" width="1000" height="667" />

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