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15 Best Things To Do in India

Posted on September 18, 2017November 14, 2025 by Harsh Sonawala

From staying in small towns to visiting majestic royal palaces, enjoying a desert camel safari to looking at panoramic views of snow-capped mountains, here is our list of the 14 best things to do in India.

We believe India should be on everyone’s travel bucket list, right at the top. With our exotic culture and extremely diverse landscapes, there are so many things to do in India that you cannot do elsewhere in the world. There is beauty in every corner of India, which makes it a popular place for a vacation. Be it treks in Himachal Pradesh, or exploring Mumbai, the heart of bollywood films, marveling at the Thar desert, or just boating in Lake Pichola – there is so much to experience in this multi-faceted country.

nm Photo by Harsh Sonawala at radhanagar beach Andamans

1. The Taj Mahal in Agra

Yes a little cliched, but there is just something about the Taj Mahal! The Taj Mahal might be the first thing that comes to your mind when you think of India, and rightfully so. While some may say it is overrated, the Taj Mahal is one of the most fascinating monuments in the world. Not for nothing is it one of the wonders of the world! It was built entirely of white marble by Emperor Shah Jahan for his beloved wife Mumtaz, and is said to be her final resting place.

Check out our practical guide on getting around Agra for more information on the fascination that is the Taj Mahal.

One of the great wonders of the world and the monument of love: The Taj Mahal

2.National Parks

India is home to some magnificent national parks with great flora and fauna.

Many wildlife enthusiasts and travellers visit national parks to catch a glimpse of the majestic Bengal Tiger. With its population slowly on the rise in the subcontinent’s protected areas, a wildlife safari to see the elusive tigers is one of the best experiences you can get in India.

Some popular parks to spot the royal cat are the Ranthambore National Park in Rajasthan, Kanha Tiger Reserve, Pench National Park, Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, Tadoba National Park, and Jim Corbett National Park.

Do note that accommodations in the protected areas are expensive. To get there you will mostly have to book private transport as public transport options will not exist. Jeep Safaris are often fully booked three months in advance so make sure that you are prepared.

Keoladeo National Park, nestled in Rajasthan’s Bharatpur, is a paradise for nature lovers. With diverse wetlands and lush greenery, it’s a haven for migratory birds, especially during winter. Over 370 species of birds live in this natural habitat, making it a haven for birdwatchers. You can stroll or cycle through its lush greenery, spotting vibrant avian life. The park’s diverse ecosystems also support animals like deer and boars. Make sure you bring your binoculars and camera for a memorable experience.

Some other national parks worth visiting are the Indian Wild Ass Sanctuary, Kaziranga National Park, Gir National Park, and Sanjay Gandhi National Park.

Amongst the best things to do in India: a tiger safari at a National Park

3. Adventurous Activities

India has no dearth of outdoor activities for the adventure-seekers.

The Himalayas, home to the highest peaks, are one of the largest mountain ranges in the world. With views so extraordinary, a trip amidst these towering mountains can be a surreal experience, especially if you love adventure.

There are so many things to do: day and multi-day hikes, paragliding, bungee jumping, zip-lining, rafting, skiing and so on. Check out Coralie’s trip to Leh and Ladakh in the Himalayas and Joanna’s and Alejandro’s trip to the north-eastern mountains for first-hand accounts on visiting these areas.

During winters, you can plan a trip along the Western Ghats along the western coast of India from Maharashtra to Kerala. Here you can hike in between tea and coffee plantations, explore hidden waterfalls and enjoy the subtropical rainforests older than any other monument you can find in India. The climate is quite pleasant during this season.

India’s yoga capital Rishikesh is a haven for thrill-seekers. The Ganges River offers exciting white-water river rafting adventures. The rush of the rapids combined with the stunning Himalayan scenery creates an unforgettable experience. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned rafter, Rishikesh’s waters won’t disappoint.

Other than this, you can go scuba diving at Andaman Islands, caving in Meghalaya, kayaking in Goa, or rock climbing in Satpura.

Check out what Daphne did on her 14-days-trip across South India. Alternatively, for more information about skiing in Kashmir, take a look at our blog. If you thought India is just ruins and urban chaos, think again!

Escape to the mountains, like the Lahaul Spiti, and enjoy the paradisiacal landscape

4. the Backwaters of Kerala

The Backwaters of Kerala in Southwest India are a labyrinth of waterways parallel to the coast of the Arabian Sea. With waterlily-covered lakes, small winding canals with palm and fruit trees, and surrounding little villages far away from the urban chaos, this place offers serenity and peace for the nature-loving traveller.

If we had to suggest one of the top things to do in India in Kerala, we’d tell you that there is no better way to explore this piece of natural wonder than by renting a private houseboat for one night. It can get expensive, though, so go for it if you don’t mind splurging. Otherwise, you can stay at a lovely homestay and opt for kayaking and day cruise.

Cruise through the river while eating fresh fish, fruits and other delicacies cooked by your very own chef. Then relax in your own private lounge, which makes for the best treat of your India trip!

Read about the best time to travel to Kerala and see Tom and Amy’s trip to South India for some inspiration.

Explore Further: Navigating the Best Times for Kerala

Venture into the mysterious backwaters of Kerala

5. Beaches of Goa

If you are looking for a relaxing beach vacation for your trip, then Goa has to be one of the top destinations for that. Wide sand beaches with palm groves lead to small shacks ready to serve you delicious fish and other culinary treats. Most resorts have beach huts where you can hear the waves break and watch the sunset over the Arabic Sea.

There is something for everyone: a crazy nightlife for party animals and, in contrast, quiet beaches for a relaxed day. Goa has fun, small budget hostels for long-term travellers but also luxury resorts for guests who prefer more comfort. There are many restaurants and cafes with international cuisines to try. Be aware that most resorts are booked out for December and January months as this is the prime season!

If you are interested in more than sunbathing at the beach, read this article by one of our travellers about things to do in Goa.

Colourful huts fringe the beaches in Goa

6. Homestays with Local Families

What are travellers hoping to experience when they decide to come to India? A culture that is substantially different from their own. How can they achieve this? By meeting locals and getting to know their mentality, traditions, spiritual beliefs and daily routines. There is no better way to make this experience a part of your trip to India than by staying at a homestay. This is one of those unmissable things to do in India.

These are basically homes of local families who rent out rooms in their own houses. They cook for you, chat with you, tell you stories and show you how they live their life. The owners can give you a great perspective of the city from the eyes of a local rather than a chain hotel. They suggest the best things to do in the city that you may have otherwise not known about.

Read about Henning from Germany who decided to stay entirely in Homestays during his trip through Rajasthan.

Reside in homestays to get a genuine experience of this great country

7. majestic forts and palaces

All over Rajasthan, Central, and North India, you will find traces of history from the days of the Moguls and Maharajas. A lot of the bigger cities and rural villages of today were once homes of different ruling families. The kingdoms were protected from the enemies by building large forts and massive royal palaces with stunning architecture.

Situated in the Pink City Jaipur, the City Palace is a majestic blend of Mughal and Rajput architecture. Its ornate courtyards, gardens, and stunning palaces tell the tale of Rajasthan’s royal history. The museum displays royal artifacts, textiles, and art. The palace’s vibrant colors and intricate designs are a visual treat, offering a beautiful front to the Pink City.

The Agra Fort in Agra, the Amber Fort in Jaipur, the magnificent forts of Maharashtra, Rajputana Museum, Gwalior Fort, are just some examples of the seeped history of India.

Many of these strongholds were transformed into luxury hotels when India became a democracy and the royal families had lost their powers. So you can stay in hotel rooms with very detailed traditional wall murals and antique furniture, looking over royal land just like the kings and queens used to many centuries ago. This is not always as expensive as you might think! Plan with us and we can tell you where you can stay like a royal guest but on a smaller budget.

Looking for an Opulent Stay in India? Checkout some Unparalleled Luxury Hotels in India

Deogarh Mahal is a former royal palace transformed into a hotel

8. traditional Festivals

India has some of the most incredible spiritual festivals. There is Holi, the festival of colors, or Diwali, the festival of lights, both celebrated with splendour throughout the country. Ramadan is the Muslim festival where they fast for a month and end it with a delicious feast when the moon rises on the thirtieth day on Eid. In Mumbai, people extensively celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi, a holiday that marks the birthday of the beloved elephant-headed God.

There are so many festivals and they are all so different to what is celebrated at home. Partaking in local festive celebrations is definitely one of the best things to do in India.

Learn more about the most important festivals here.

Celebrating the festival of colours: Holi

9. Spiritual and Rejuvenating Experience

Yoga and Ayurveda, originated in India, is practiced all over the country. Traditional Indian medicine and treatments are all about using the healing powers of nature and focus on the relationship between body and mind. For those who can stay for a longer time in India, there are many ashrams and Ayurveda institutes that offer spiritual and physical healing. Certain hotels and resorts offer yoga classes as a one-time activity as well. In most cities, private teachers also offer yoga classes on a regular basis.

Experience Ayurveda as a way to rejuvenate yourself in India

10. Religious Tourism

India is one of the most religious destinations in the world, with people of all religions and faiths finding solace here. Religion is truly celebrated in this country. Be it the Ganga aarti in Varanasi, Vaishno Devi in Jammu, Mathura and Vrindavan in Uttar Pradesh, or Tirupati Balaji in Chennai – India has temples even in the remotest villages. A journey to India would be incomplete without visiting at least one place of worship.

The Golden Temple, Amritsar’s spiritual heart, is a serene place of worship for Sikhs and a symbol of unity and equality. Its golden facade reflects in a shimmering pool, creating a breathtaking sight. The langar (community kitchen) serves free meals to all, emphasizing humanity’s shared values and giving the weary traveler a warm welcome to Indian food.

Ram Mandir in Ayodhya is another religious marvel with a lot of history behind its construction.

The Subah E benaras in Varanasi – Photo credit Harsh Sonawala

11. Responsible Tourism Activities

India has many Responsible Tourism activities that make you understand the culture in a sensible way. Reality Tours & Travel run slum tours in Mumbai and Delhi that aim to break down the negative stereotypes people might have of these communities. They invest 80% of their profits into social activities in the slums.

While you are in Agra check out the wonderful Sheroes Hangout Café run by survivors of acid attacks. The proceeds fully go to their medical and legal aid.

Kabani Tours run responsible tours in Kerala which educate the visitors about the traditions of local ethnic groups. You can combine those tours with an individual trip across South India.

Interact with the locals during Slum tours

12. Architecture

India boasts 38 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, each a treasure trove of history and culture. From the iconic Taj Mahal to ancient cave complexes, these sites reflect India’s rich past. Start your tour early morning and explore grand forts, study intricately carved temples and soak in breathtaking natural landscapes. There are plenty of tour guides available who can share the stories behind these architectural marvels. A journey through these iconic tourism spots is a journey through India’s heritage.

If you are a history buff, visiting India for the three UNESCO World Heritage Sites – Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri, and Qutub Minar – is worth the trip. These monumental artistic wonders are windows into India’s history. While Mughal emperor Shah Jahan etched his love for his beloved wife in the marble magnificence that is the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, a red sandstone marvel, once housed emperors and echoes with tales of the past. Fatehpur Sikri, a splendid ghost city, captivates with its grandeur. Qutub Minar, an ancient tower, stands as a testament to New Delhi’s historical significance. Each site has a unique story to tell.

The taj in the morning – photo credit indiasomeday client

13. City Tours

While India is usually visited for its heritage and cultural sites, daily life in the cities of India also leave a lot to be explored.

The financial capital of India, Mumbai, shows stark contrast with skyscrapers co-existing with the British architecture, but also with the slums of Dharavi.

West Bengal, with its old world charm, trams, kathi rolls, and Howrah Bridge will make you just stop and stare for a while.

Step back in time with a tour of Old Delhi. Explore bustling markets of the old city, like Chandni Chowk market, where you can sample delicious street food and shop for traditional goods. Visit historic sites like Jama Masjid, one of India’s largest mosques, and immerse yourself in the vibrant chaos of this timeless city.

Every city in India has its own charm and will give you a very different experience.

14. Indian Food

If you are a foodie, you need to try the local food in India. While it is not something we would recommend for a sensitive stomach, Indian food has a fanbase of its own.

Every state has its own cuisine, and every household has a different taste. With recipes passed down over generations, food in India is delectable, nutritious, and you do not need to spend a lot of money.

Butter chicken, vada pav, dosa, lassi, biryani, chicken tikka, chaat – India is a paradise for food lovers.

You can either go on food tours, explore on your on own or even take a cooking class in most cities.

15. People Watching

The density of population in India can sometimes be quite overwhelming as you navigate your way through crowds. But it also makes India a great place for people-watching. So you can just sit back and relax in a shack in Goa, or a cafe in Varanasi overlooking the ghats, or the Tattoo Cafe across Hawa Mahal, or a small restaurant in the ever-busy Mumbai, and just watch the world go by. Believe us, it is one of the most relaxing and fun activities to do!

Of course, there is a lot more that you can do in India and they are all so different from one another. We can suggest additional activities that will fit your expectations for a perfect trip to India. Plan your India trip with us now and we can find together the best route and itinerary for you.

Plan Your Escape: Best Places to Visit in North India

See Also: Rajasthan’s Tourist Hotspots

THINGS TO DO IN INDIA VIDEO

Weather in India in January

Posted on November 29, 2016May 6, 2025 by Harsh Sonawala

The weather in India in January makes it one of the best times to visit India. January is the coolest month in India, although the temperature varies from region to region. The weather is pleasant in most of India, so you can visit most of the country in January. Read through the weather in India in January and get some inspiration on some of the places to visit in India at this time.

January Weather in India

With the exception of the snowy peaks in the North and some parts of the Northeast, it is not very cold in India. January is a dry month, with barely any rainfall across the country. The average temperatures can vary largely from day to night. Prepare yourself for a maximum daytime temperature of 30°C (86°F) dropping to 15°C (59°F) at night, sometimes lower.

Here is an overview on the best time to visit India.

You can also find a detailed overview on what the weather would be like each month in India, in different regions of the country. Feel free to explore.

The great monuments in North India

Best places to visit in India in January

January is a great month to visit India. The climate is mild and cool, making it perfect for sightseeing and exploring during the day. Tourists from the Southern Hemisphere have their summer break from December to February, so most tourist places in India are extra crowded in January.

You can tour the Golden Triangle in January – the Red Fort in New Delhi, the Taj Mahal in Agra, and the Hawa Mahal in Jaipur. Rajasthan is a very popular tourist destination in January.

South India is warm but pleasant in January, so you can soak in some sunlight without feeling burnt.

North India in January

The weather in India in January varies a lot just within the North. In the far north, the Himalayas are blanketed with snow. If you are looking for trekking and other outdoor activities, this region may not be the best choice in January. Many roads and hiking trails are blocked or closed due to the snow, making traveling difficult, expensive, and tiring.

But if you want to ski, January is a great month to do so. Gulmarg in Kashmir is one of the most popular destinations in India for skiing. You can also opt for other smaller resorts in Manali and Auli in Himachal Pradesh.

Delhi can get quite cold in January, with temperatures ranging from 22 to 5°C (71-41°F). The cities of Agra and Rajasthan are pleasantly warm during the day, heating up to 20 to 28°C (82-86°F).

Evenings get cold in North India – nature reserves and northern cities like Jaisalmer, Amritsar and Delhi get particularly cold at night in January. Rooms with heating facilities are uncommon except in high-end hotels. However, hotels and guest houses usually provide warm blankets. We recommend carrying a blanket, a pair of warm socks, and maybe something to cover your ears at night.

At this time of year, clouds are rare and you will be safe from the rain in Northern areas. Take note however, that there may well be persistent fog around Delhi and Agra. It can last for days at a time, disrupting air traffic and train departures, so it is good to prepare for delays.

In Punjab, Lohri is celebrated in January, a colorful festival dedicated to the Sun God. It is celebrated by singing folk music and lighting a bonfire.

The Bikaner camel festival in Rajasthan is celebrated in January every year in the village of Bikaner, dedicated to the ship of the desert, the camel. Thousands of camels are adorned and traded at the camel fair. There are also many cultural activities happening during the festival.

January is the most popular month to travel in Rajasthan. This means that it is likely to be packed with tourists and so hotel availability may become an issue. We recommend booking in advance to secure your spots. Remember, we can help you with that, just click on Plan Your Trip.

If you are interested in travelling through Rajasthan and North India in January, check out Henning’s two-week-trip to Rajasthan with homestay experiences, or Chiara’s Rajasthan trip for a dash of luxury. In case you’re looking for route options combining cities, look at our Delhi – Agra – Rajasthan route options.

Want to avoid the tourist rush and have warmer weather in North India? Consider visiting during the months of February or March.

Know More: Northern India’s Ultimate Travel Guide

Discover: Stumble Upon Rajasthan’s Premier Vacation Spots

Jodhpur_(Photo Credit Anshul Tilondiya )

South India in January

India weather in South India in January is comfortably warm. In most cities of Kerala, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu, the average temperature is normally around 25°C (77°F) during the day, and around 15-20°C (59-68°F) at night. Humidity and rainfall levels tend to drop, making Southern India a good destination to visit in January.

This is peak tourist season in South India, so places like Varkala and Kochi are quite busy, so make sure you book your tickets and accommodations in advance.

Goa is a great place to visit in India in January. It rarely gets cold, and the sunny days are very pleasant. However, there is a cooler breeze at night along the vast stretches of countryside in the state. Daytime temperatures are normally above 25°C (77°F), so it is the perfect time to get some Vitamin D without the unbearable, blazing heat. However, the downside of visiting Goa at this time of the year is the crowd. The beaches see a lot more visitors, and popular resorts get booked months in advance.

The harvest festival of Pongal is celebrated in Tamil Nadu in January. It is a big cultural celebration with a special dish called Pongal made from freshly harvested rice.

The Float Festival of Madurai also takes place in Tamil Nadu at Meenakshi Amman Temple. The cultural festival is celebrated in January on a full moon night – the area is decorated with bright lights and many rituals take place here on this day.

We advise you to plan your trip in advance, and in case you don’t, we can always help you out. Just click on Plan Your Trip and we can take over to plan your trip for you. Also, check out Rachel’s trip across South India to find inspiration for a travel route inclusive of Goa.

Plan Your Trip: Discover the Best Time for Kerala

Here is a detailed overview on what the weather would be like each month in India, in different regions of the country. Feel free to explore.

Eastern India and Northeastern India in January

The east of India is pretty dry during January. On the east coast, in cities like Puducherry and Odisha, temperatures range from 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F). The pleasant January weather makes it a good time to visit the eastern part of India.

Northeast India is also dry in January, one of the very few months where the skies are blue and you can enjoy outdoor activities. You can go trekking, hiking, and camping, getting close to nature. Visit the double decker root bridges in Meghalaya, or explore Gangtok in Sikkim.

Western India in January

Western India is considerably warm in January, with the Arabian Sea and Gulf of Kutch. Temperatures range between 20°C and 30°C (68°F to 86°F) in the coastal cities of Mumbai and Goa. It is a great time to unwind on the beaches of the west coast or trek on the hills of Western Ghats. As you move further towards the mainland, the climate becomes warmer.

The festival of Makar Sankranti takes place in the middle of January. It is widely celebrated in Maharashtra and Gujarat. In Gujarat, there is an international kite festival that takes place on Makar Sankranti.

The Rann Utsav also takes place in January in Gujarat. Many festivities, music, and dance performances take place in a tent city at the edge of the White Rann in the Thar Desert. Attend the Rann Utsav on a full moon night – the moonlight reflecting off the white salt flats is a phenomenal sight.

Central India in January

Nagpur, Lucknow, and the rest of Central India has hot but pleasant weather in January. This time is perfect for sightseeing or taking a wildlife safari across the many national parks in Central India. Late nights and early mornings at the national parks can get chilly, so make sure you pack some warm clothing. Rain is rare in January, so you don’t need umbrellas or waterproof jackets, although it is not a bad idea to pack it if you can.

For more detailed information about weather in India in January, or for any help in planning your perfect trip to India, feel free to contact us!

Tips while visiting India in January

A major Indian public holiday is celebrated on 26 January – the Republic Day of India, which celebrates the date on which the Constitution of India came into effect in 1950. The main celebration is held at the Red Fort in New Delhi with a ceremonial parade. On this day, some areas may be crowded, while some places may be closed.
If you are visiting India in January, keep in mind that almost all the main attractions in the country will be crowded. We would recommend going off the beaten path this month.
Many places in the far north will be closed or cut off due to the snow, so try to avoid such destinations in January.
Pack appropriate clothing for your trip. If you are visiting North India, you will need warm clothing. Pack a blanket, jacket, or shawl since the north can get quite cold in January, especially at night. You can pack light clothing for the South, but take a warm jacket or sweater for the night.
Keep basic medications handy. Winter brings with it some infections and viral fevers. You will find medical aid in most tourist places in India, but just in case, keep your regular medications with you.

If you are thinking of visiting India, January is a great month to plan a trip to this diverse country. Most of India has the perfect weather conditions in January to travel and explore without getting tired or exhausted. For more detailed information about weather in India in January, or for any help in planning your perfect trip to India, feel free to contact us! We will customize the perfect trip for you based on your requirements.

If you consider a trip to India in January, you are at the right place. India Someday can help you plan a route with the best choices of accommodations and transport modes. And if a hotel is booked out we will find a suitable alternative within your budget and expectations. Plan your trip with us now!