Do you know a country with many religions, foods, cultures, and landscapes? It is India. It is like a real-life storybook that is still being written. India is a dream destination for many travellers, including NRIs coming home to reconnect to their roots. It has everything from snowy mountains in the north to calm backwaters in the south.
You can have fun in the busy towns and enjoy peace in the quiet villages. However, there is so much to see that it is essential to have a well-planned itinerary.
If you are not sure where to begin, I will guide you on how to maximise your experience on your trip to India’s best holiday spots, whether you have two weeks or more.
The Ultimate Itinerary
Northern India, The Golden Triangle
You can start your journey in northern India by exploring Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur, known as the Golden Triangle.
a) Delhi: Start your Indian adventure from its lively capital city. Delhi is a perfect mix where the past and present exist together. You can explore the grand Red Fort, the calm Lotus Temple, and the ancient Humayun’s Tomb. If you want fun, just hop on a rickshaw and roam around the lively streets of Old Delhi’s Chandni Chowk. Walking through Old Delhi is a cultural experience in itself.
b) Agra: A short journey from Delhi brings you to Agra, the home of the Taj Mahal. It is a monument of eternal love and a bucket list destination for NRIs and foreigners. If you have time, don’t forget to visit the ghost city of Fatehpur Sikri. Both places are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
c) Jaipur: Walking around Jaipur is like seeing a pink dream. You can wander through the magnificent City Palace, explore the grand Amber Fort, and enjoy views from the Hawa Mahal. If you want to taste Rajasthani food and look for traditional crafts, it is the perfect place to be.
Coming back to India, NRIs? Khan Market and Connaught Place are spots where you can buy things and eat international food with an Indian twist.
Spirituality, Natural Beauty, and Relaxation
a) Varanasi: It is the spiritual heart of India. If you want to see the world’s oldest living city, you must visit Varanasi. Explore the holy temples and ghats. You can enjoy a morning boat ride on the Ganges and see the captivating Ganga Aarti at sunrise. You can also visit the neighbouring Sarnath. It is the site where Buddha gave his first sermon.
b) Kerala: People call it “God’s own country,” and it should be your next stop. Start with Cochin. It has old buildings from when other countries ruled. It is also famous for the Kathakali dance. After that, you should visit Alleppey. With palm trees, you can take a chill boat ride on the water. Pure bliss, for sure!
c) Goa: If you want to have good vibes and a good time at the beaches, Goa is the place to be. It is known for its golden sand and exciting nightlife. You can enjoy seafood at a beach shack or relax at Palolem or Anjuna Beach. You can also visit the Portuguese-influenced churches of Old Goa. If you plan Goa Holidays from the UK, you will have an incredible time here.
For NRIs: A local guide can be a great help if you want to learn more about Hindu traditions and rituals that you might not know well because you live abroad.
Himalayan Escape
Travel to the calm Himalayan region from the bustling cities. Depending on your interests, consider locations like Shimla, Manali, or Rishikesh.
a) Rishikesh: Many tourists are attracted to Rishikesh because of its adventurous activities and spiritual retreats. If you are a fan of yoga, this is your place to be. It is known as the Yoga Capital of the world. Thousands of yoga fans attend the city’s annual International Yoga Festival.
b) Manali: Next up is Manali in Himachal Pradesh. If you are an adventurer, you can try paragliding or trekking in the mountains. Manali is where many trips to the Spiti Valley start, so it’s a getaway to even more amazing places. Get ready for some seriously gorgeous views.
c) Shimla: So, next on the list is Shimla. It used to be the summer capital of British India. So, it is packed with colonial architecture and has some seriously amazing mountain views. You can even take a train ride there, like on the Kalka-Shimla Railway. It is not just a way to get there, but a little peek into how trains started in India.
Tips for NRIs and Other Travellers
No matter what you’re into, history, nature, or adrenaline-pumping adventures. India is incredibly diverse. It doesn’t matter if you are an NRI or foreigner, there is a region that’ll grab your interest. And a super bright tip is to book your hotels and guesthouses before you travel, especially if you’re planning to travel between November and February, because that’s when many people visit. And download some local travel apps and check out the latest travel guides.
They can be a real lifesaver for getting around and finding cool stuff. Pack smartly so that you can survive in every kind of weather smoothly. Buy a local SIM card at the airport so you can communicate locally.
Conclusion
India is like a treat to your eyes that stays in your memory long after you’ve left. Every single place you go has its unique charm. Whether it’s spiritual experiences, historic sites, mouth-watering food, or stunning scenery. India’s got something just for you, whether you are an NRI or not.
India has so many different things to see and do; it’s fantastic. And with the right Itinerary, you can ensure you don’t miss any cool spots. A good schedule helps you see all the essential places. So, what are you waiting for? Begin planning your dream trip to India right now!
