Top 20 Things to Do in India

India is a land where ancient history and vibrant modernity collide in a spectacle that engages all five senses. It is a subcontinent of contrasts: from the snow capped peaks of the Himalayas to the lush tropical beaches of the south, from the organized chaos of its massive cities to the serene solitude of its sacred temples. The country offers a journey through spectacular Mughal architecture, deep spiritual traditions, world class cuisine, and unparalleled natural landscapes.

In this guide you will find the top 20 things to do in India—a curated blend of cultural icons, thrilling adventures, spiritual retreats, and hidden gems. Each recommendation is designed not only to inspire but also to provide the essential planning details to make your visit to the ‘Incredible India’ unforgettable.

1. Visit the Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal is not just a building; it is the world’s most magnificent monument to love. Built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan for his wife, Mumtaz Mahal, this ivory-white marble mausoleum is a UNESCO World Heritage site and an essential stop on the traveler’s circuit. Its perfect symmetry, intricate gemstone inlays, and the way the marble changes color from pink at dawn to glowing white by day and golden at dusk make it a truly breathtaking sight. It is a crowning jewel of Indo-Islamic architecture.

2. Explore the Amber Fort

Perched on a hill overlooking Maota Lake, the Amber Fort or Amer Fort is a stunning example of Rajput military architecture. Built from red sandstone and marble, the fort is a maze of sprawling courtyards, opulent palaces, and beautiful temples. Highlights include the Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace), where the ceilings are inlaid with thousands of tiny mirrors. Its commanding presence and strategic location perfectly embody the grandeur of Rajasthan’s royal past.

3. Cruise the Backwaters of Kerala

The Kerala Backwaters are a tranquil network of interconnected canals, lakes, and lagoons that run parallel to the Arabian Sea. Cruising this serene labyrinth on a traditional thatched Kettuvallam houseboat is a quintessential Indian experience. As you glide slowly past lush paddy fields, coir villages, and local life on the banks, you will feel the peace of this unique ecosystem. It is an escape from the busy pace of India into a slower, greener world.

4. Experience the Ganga Aarti Ceremony

The Ganga Aarti in Varanasi is one of the most potent and mesmerizing spiritual rituals you can witness. Every evening as dusk falls, hundreds of priests gather at the riverbank ghats to perform a deeply choreographed prayer service dedicated to the River Ganges, Mother Ganga. The rhythmic chanting of mantras, the smell of incense, and the sight of hundreds of lamps being raised in unison create an atmosphere of intense devotion and spectacle that defines the soul of India.

5. Relax on the Beaches of Goa

Goa, India’s smallest state, is famous worldwide for its laidback atmosphere, vibrant nightlife, and stunning coastal scenery. With a strong Portuguese influence still visible in its architecture and cuisine, Goa offers a unique mix of Indian and European culture. From the party beaches of Baga and Calangute to the quieter, serene sands of Palolem and Agonda, you can find a stretch of coast to suit any mood. Enjoy fresh seafood, water sports, and perfect sunsets over the Arabian Sea.

6. Explore the Ancient Ruins of Hampi

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Hampi was once the capital of the mighty Vijayanagara Empire and remains one of India’s most evocative archaeological sites. Spread over rocky terrain and surrounded by the Tungabhadra River the ruins feature magnificent temples palaces and markets. The landscape is instantly recognizable due to the hundreds of massive boulders that pepper the hills.

7. See Tigers at Ranthambore National Park

One of India’s largest and most famous wildlife sanctuaries, Ranthambore is a haven for the majestic Bengal Tiger. Located in Rajasthan, the park is a rugged land of forests lakes and a historic 10th century fort that gives the park its name. Taking a safari here offers an exhilarating opportunity to spot a tiger in its natural habitat alongside sloth bears leopards and various deer. It is a thrilling blend of nature and adventure.

8. Discover the Ellora and Ajanta Caves

These two separate complexes of rock cut caves are masterpieces of Indian art and architecture and are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Ellora is famous for its massive monolithic Kailasa Temple carved from a single rock while Ajanta is renowned for its stunning Buddhist religious paintings and sculptures. Visiting both provides an incredible insight into India’s long history of religious tolerance and artistic genius spanning nearly a thousand years.

9. Visit the Golden Temple Harmandir Sahib

The Golden Temple is the holiest shrine of the Sikh religion and a place of incredible beauty and peace. The temple’s striking gold-leaf architecture stands in stark contrast to the peaceful waters of the surrounding holy tank, the Amrit Sarovar, which gives the city its name. Visitors are welcome to participate in the temple’s spirit of selfless service, including the Langar, the world’s largest free community kitchen that feeds thousands daily, regardless of background.

10. Hike in the Himalayas

India’s northern border is defined by the majestic Himalayan mountain range offering some of the world’s most spectacular trekking opportunities. Whether it is a challenging multi day trek near Leh Ladakh with its stark high altitude deserts or a gentler hike through the verdant valleys around Manali and Dharamsala the scale and beauty are overwhelming. The air is crisp and the views of snow capped peaks and Buddhist monasteries are unforgettable.

11. Experience Mumbai's Marine Drive

Known as the Queen’s Necklace because of the sparkling streetlights that line the bay in a perfect arc at night, Marine Drive is a sweeping C shaped boulevard along the Arabian Sea. It is the perfect place to experience the energy of Mumbai. Join locals for a walk, a snack, or just to watch the sunset over the sea. The Art Deco buildings that line the street are a UNESCO recognized architectural treasure.

12. Take a Ride on the Toy Train

India is famous for its intricate rail network and the mountain railways declared UNESCO World Heritage sites offer some of the most charming journeys. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is the most famous toy train, traversing hills and loops with stunning views of the tea plantations and eventually Mount Kanchenjunga. The slow journey is an immersion into the beautiful mountain landscape of West Bengal.

13. Wander Through the Blue City

The old city of Jodhpur is famous for its vibrant blue painted houses a tradition originally associated with the Brahmin caste but now adopted by many residents. Wandering through the narrow maze like alleys is a visual treat offering endless photo opportunities. Towering above the blue city is the massive Mehrangarh Fort one of the largest and best preserved forts in all of India offering a commanding view of the blue wash below.

14. See the Meenakshi Amman Temple

Located in the heart of the ancient city of Madurai the Meenakshi Temple is a living testament to South Indian temple architecture. This huge complex is famous for its dozen towering gopurams or gateway towers which are covered top to bottom with thousands of brightly painted mythological statues. The sheer detail and color make it a mesmerizing sight and a central hub of religious and cultural life in Tamil Nadu.

15. Attend the Pushkar Camel Fair

If your timing is right attending the Pushkar Camel Fair is one of the most incredible cultural experiences in India. Held every year in November during the Hindu month of Kartik, this event sees thousands of camels cattle and horses gathered on the dunes for trading. Beyond the livestock, it is a massive rural carnival with musicians dancers and acrobats creating a dazzling spectacle of Rajasthani culture.

16. Stay in a Havelis in Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer, the Golden City, is famous for its massive yellow sandstone fort that seems to rise magically from the Thar Desert. Within the fort walls you will find intricate merchant houses known as Havelis which are famous for their elaborately carved facades. Spending a night in a restored Haveli is a taste of aristocratic Rajasthani living with intricate architecture and stunning rooftop views.

17. Relax in the Tea Plantations of Munnar

The hill station of Munnar in Kerala is defined by its breathtaking landscape of rolling hills covered in carpets of manicured green tea plantations. Once a summer retreat for the British, it now offers cool weather, scenic viewpoints, and the chance to visit a tea factory to learn about the processing of the world famous beverage. The air is fresh and the environment is one of overwhelming natural beauty.

18. Raft on the Ganges in Rishikesh

Rishikesh, the Yoga Capital of the World, is situated where the Ganges River leaves the Himalayas and flows onto the northern plains. Beyond the ashrams and yoga retreats, it is an adventure sports hub. White Water Rafting on the Ganges is a thrilling experience with rapids ranging from easy to challenging set against a backdrop of stunning mountains and green forests.

19. Explore the Streets of Old Delhi

Old Delhi is a sensory overload in the best possible way. The narrow streets are a teeming web of activity where centuries old traditions live alongside modern chaos. Hire a cycle rickshaw to navigate the bustling markets of Chandni Chowk and savor the iconic street food like Jalebi and Parathas. The area is home to the stunning Red Fort and the Jama Masjid one of India’s largest mosques.

20. Stand in Awe of the Lotus Temple

The Lotus Temple in Delhi is an architectural marvel and a symbol of peace and unity. Shaped like a blossoming lotus flower with 27 marble petals, this Baha’i House of Worship is open to people of all faiths. The temple’s unique design and surrounding gardens offer a stunning contrast to the city’s hustle and bustle creating a serene and contemplative atmosphere inside.