India is a land of many wonders. This is a country where you can see the mountains, wade through the waters of the seas, explore the plains as well as experience the beauty of the coastal plains- all packed within the tour of one single country. The fact that India is home to such natural diversities makes it one of the most desirable tourist destinations in the world. Many people flock to the country from near and far places just to witness the beauty that India is. But the problem with India is that it is too crowded with local people, and when tourists add to it, it becomes a chaos of bubbling human heads. However, far away from this maddening crowd are some places, which offer some experiences that will stay with you for your lifetime.
Let’s take a look at some of the things that you can try out in India, which are a little different from the usual tourist activities, but equally, if not more, rewarding:
For the love of lakes: The Himalayan region of India, which stretches from Jammu and Kashmir till about Arunachal Pradesh, boasts of some of the most beautiful lakes that there is in the country. You must visit these lakes since they have a tale of nature to tell. Beautiful and tranquil these lakes are truly wondrous creations of Nature. Here are some of the lakes that you should consider paying a visit to:
- The famous Dal Lake- Jammu and Kashmir\
- Nagin Lake- Srinagar
- Mansar Lake –Jammu
- Renuka Lake –Sirmaur
- Pangong Tso –Ladakh
- Suraj Tal Lake -Lahaul-Spiti
- Sattal Lake –Bhimtal, etc
It’s sunset time: Of the major rivers of India, Brahmaputra is one. In fact, it is the most important river of the Eastern region of this country. The sunset when viewed while on the river is a celestial experience. The red and orange sun slowly dissolves and ultimately in the river water. It is a photographer’s delight. Tezpur in Assam is the best place to catch this sunset. If you do plan to visit the eastern part of the country, do not miss this experience.
Appreciating beauty at the Western Ghats: On two sides of the country, tapering towards the southern tip, are the Eastern and Western Ghats. As the name suggests, the Eastern Ghats are in the East and the Western Ghats in the West. The Western Ghats are renowned for its beauty and scenic wonder. From hills to valleys, forests to grasslands, you will find everything in the Western Ghats. You can also enjoy the numerous lakes and waterfalls that abound in this area. The wildlife found in this area is also as majestic as its surroundings. Do take a trip of the Western Ghats to relive in a view days in the lap of Nature.
From the Western Ghats to the Ghats of Varanasi: Known as Varanasi or Kasi this place is more than 1000 years old. There are close to 87 ghats in this city. These ghats are rather different than the Western Ghats. Located on the river banks, lined one after the other, the ghats are mainly steps that lead down to the river. This city was built on the banks of the river Ganga, which is considered to be the holy river of India. People come here from far and wide to take a dip in the holy waters since it is believed that these waters wash away one’s sins. Legends say that this city was founded by Lord Shiva. The ghats expose what life in India is all about. While you will find ascetics meditating her and there, people will also sit in groups and talk about the problems of their material day to day activities too! While you will find one taking a holy dip, you might find a few who prefer to simply sit on the steps and enjoy the beauty of the river. Do not miss the evening prayer at the Dashswamedh Ghat, the most important of all the ghats, when the entire ghat lights up and the air fills up with the chanting of the mantras. Varanasi is truly a place worth visiting.
A ride through the Sunderbans: Sunderbans in West Bengal is celebrated because of the Sundari trees that grow here and, of course, the Royal Bengal Tiger, which prowls through the forests. If you are extremely lucky, then you just might spot on in their natural habitat. This is the main attraction of the Sunderbans. The only way to explore the jungles is to wade through the waterways and creeks in a boat. You will surely find deer and exotic birds feeding on the shores of the water. It is very difficult to spot a tiger since they are in general very shy. You can also come across a few crocodiles sunbathing on the banks. Two days in the jungles of Sunderbans truly is a respite from the crowded and cackling streets of the cities.
One night in the desert: Rajasthan or the “land of the kings” is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. The best time to visit this state would be during the winter months since during the summers, the heat becomes unbearable in this place. This is primarily because of the fact that a large part of this state comprises of the Great Thar Desert. Rajasthan is all about forts, mainly built by the Rajputs. Every city has at least 5-6 forts. Jaisalmer has a number of forts, and the one built with yellow limestone is the most interesting one. From Jaisalmer, you can travel to Samdhani, where you can spend the night in the desert and that too in tents! You can take a camel back ride and also a “rocking” ride through the desert sands in a jeep. If you want an adventure in the deserts, this is the place to visit!
These are just some of the most interesting activities that you can try out when in India. There are plenty of other things to try out to, and when it comes to India, the list is an unending one!
