7 Things Not To Be Missed In India
This Spring, many people will make plans to go on a vacation or a holiday to a variety of places. Some will be well-known, while others will be less travelled; and there’s a chance you’ll be one of these people. In case you’re making plans to travel and haven’t made up your mind yet as to where to go, I have the perfect place. I speak of none other than one of the most well known Asian countries in the world, India. Here are 7 of the must things to do and not to be missed in India:
Paranthe Wali Gali:
The street of Parathas, this is a famous of food lane in the heart of Old Delhi right in the middle of the Chandni Chowk Market. The street was named after the well-known flatbread known as Parathas, made from wheat dough and lightly fried in oil on both sides. Usually eaten as they are, and stuffed with potatoes but on this street, you will find multiple variants of the paratha stuffed with almost anything you can imagine. Some of the places open here have been around for over 100 years and they are always full of customers.
Akshardham:
This cultural complex located near the Yamuna River is one the most impressive structures in all of India. The massive temple is constructed from the carvings of several thousand Indian artisans. It is truly a sight to behold and you will be blown away from the sight of it and its architecture, and that’s all before going inside. Inside you will find yourself in the midst of a scene of absurdly detailed design, the whole place tells the story of Hinduism. For the best view, arrive an hour or so before sunset and you’ll be treated to the sight of the beautiful temple all lit up.
Chand Baori Stepwell:
Located in the tiny village of Abhaneri some 10 km off of the main Agra-to-Jaipur road, the first impression of this place is a small well in an ancient city. You’d be tempted to just take a picture, and move on, but I’d say to not do that. Because it’s not just a small well, its actually a 1200-year-old water tank, the largest in the country. Constructed by King Chanda of the Nikumbha Dynasty in 8000 BCE, the massive rectangular well is approximately 30 meters deep.
Ranakpur Jain Temple:
Located in the village of Ranakpur, the temple is one of the most Jain temples in the whole dating back to the 15th century. Located in the forest, the temple is supported by over 1400 intricately carved pillars, with each one being completely unique. Get the audio guide that comes along with your ticket, as regular guides aren’t allowed in the temple. The audio guide will take care of all the important information so don’t worry.
Natraj Dining Hall:
Time to experience the Thali. A thali is a meal that consists of a variety of foods, usually, all served on a large, round metal plate. a variety of vegetable dishes, rice, fresh chapati, chutneys, and plenty of other good stuff. Some dishes might be spicy, so be sure to ask before you take a bite!
Medieval City of Orchha:
Spend a couple of nights here and you will have an opportunity to explore the seemingly endless number of temples and palaces. Rent a bike and pedal along the paths connecting the temples, palaces and fort. Experience the Ram Raja Temple in the evening when all the tours have gone, a major pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Ram.
The Golden Temple:
Last but not the least, we have the holiest sites for Sikhism, the Golden Temple. You will have an endless stream of pilgrims to talk to over here and each experience will be more rewarding than the last. Be sure to visit the Langar Hall, a community dining hall where all visitors are welcome to eat a simple but tasty free meal.
