Magical excursions of India India is a country that is known for its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning natural beauty. It is a land that is filled with wonders and offers a wide range of magical excursions for travelers to experience. One of the most popular magical excursions in India is the visit to the Taj Mahal. This iconic white marble mausoleum is considered one of the seven wonders of the world and is a testament to the unmatched architectural marvels of the Mughal dynasty. The Taj Mahal's beauty is especially enchanting during sunrise or sunset when the changing colors of the sky create a magical backdrop for this magnificent structure. Another magical excursion in India is a visit to the mystical city of Varanasi.
3] Alleppey: Alleppey in Kerala is the Venice of India. The only difference is that it is much more natural in its charm and soulful in its appeal. The host of serene lagoons, lakes and canals lend it a look straight from fancy tales. Boat rides are a must-do activity here and if you’re lucky you may just witness the brilliant Snake Boat ride held annually. The 19th century Alappuzha Lighthouse adds a tinge of old world-ism to this destination. The state, on the whole, is noted for its natural grandeur as well as for its traditional Ayurvedic practises. Those looking to reconnect with nature find a reprieve here. So do those who wish to gain from meditation and Ayurveda. Kovalam and Munnar are not too far away. They provide another dose of balm to the body that has seen too much of urban chaos and is yearning for a touch of nature, Kerala Tourist Places.
Endowed with an array of geographical features, India presents a vibrant mosaic of mountains, plateaus, beaches, backwaters, islands, forests, and deserts. The spices of India offer a true rainbow the rich red of chili powder, the deep green of cardamom and the intense yellow of turmeric are just the start.
Another magical excursion in India is a visit to the mystical city of Varanasi. Situated on the banks of the sacred river Ganges, Varanasi is one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world and is regarded as the spiritual capital of India. The sight of hundreds of devotees performing their religious rituals on the ghats (steps leading down to the river) and witnessing the evening Aarti (a Hindu religious ceremony involving fire) is truly mesmerizing and has an otherworldly charm.
Magical excursions of India
At Bestway, we have a turn of phrase we often use—as soon as you visit India for the first time, we say, you already start thinking of when you’ll be back.
I have certainly found this to be true for myself.
A few years ago, I jumped at the opportunity to take one of our most popular routes through Northern India.
With its lavish monuments, colourful culture and history dating back thousands of years, visiting India felt worlds apart from anything I had experienced before. Inevitably, I’ve already started thinking about where I want to go when I visit next!
Here are 6 experiences I treasured during my time there that I truly believe you cannot get anywhere else:
1. The fragrant spices of Delhi
India’s capital offers the hustle and bustle that only a sprawling mega city can provide. But even the busyness has its charm.
The highlight of my time in Delhi was a visit to Chandni Chowk, the city’s busiest and oldest market.
This wholesale bazaar is a feast for the senses. Bicycle rickshaws pedal by, hawkers shout out their wares, and shoppers wander between stores set up with every product under the sun, including my favourite, piles upon piles of fragrant, colourful spices.
The spices of India offer a true rainbow—the rich red of chili powder, the deep green of cardamom and the intense yellow of turmeric are just the start.
Spices seem to taste different in India. They’re more potent and flavourful. They’re combined in unique ways not found in other cuisines.
I’m generally not one to purchase souvenirs, but I made an exception for a set of classic Indian spices that gave a special flavour to my cooking for many months!
2. Having your excursion disrupted by a cow
Hindus see the cow as a sacred symbol of life. They even celebrate the “cow holiday” of Gopastami, where cows across the country are washed and dressed in flower garlands! Beef is never on the menu, and it is illegal to harm or kill cows in most states.
Because of their holy status, cows are generally left to wander, well, wherever they want. During my explorations in India, I saw cows roaming through busy markets, making their way through dense crowds of people, and, my personal favourite, blocking traffic by laying down in the middle of the road.
The situation can be frustrating or comical, depending on your perspective, but it is undoubtedly a uniquely Indian experience!
3. Watching the pilgrims of Varanasi
Above all other experiences in India, visiting Varanasi, one of the oldest living cities on Earth, truly made me feel as if I had stepped into another world.
Varanasi is one of the holiest cities for Hindus, and millions of pilgrims make the trip here every year.
During a sunrise boat ride, we watched as scores of pilgrims bathed in the divine waters of the Ganges River, cleansing their sins according to Hindu beliefs.
The smell of incense, the sound of chanting, the lap of the sacred river, all worked together to create an otherworldly aura, the feeling one can only get in a deeply religious and ancient place.
The crown jewel of my visit was the chance to take in the fervent Aarti ceremony, where Hindu priests wave flaming candelabras in an intricate dance along the shores of the river after sunset—truly a special experience.
4. Friendly faces at every turn
I’ll admit, friendly locals aren’t unique to India. They are, however, a highlight.
Be prepared for all ages to greet you, asking where you are from and what you’re doing—as well as for the occasional picture or selfie. I even got invited to one passer-by’s house for tea!
Many locals are incredibly friendly and curious about you. It can be a rich and rewarding experience to be just as curious in return. Participating in conversations with locals is a unique way to learn about the culture, traditions and daily lives of those you come in contact with.
5. A rainbow of colourful saris
One site that is quintessentially Indian, seen everywhere you visit, is the beautiful rainbow of saris.
The sari is a traditional garment of women on the Indian subcontinent that can be folded and draped in different ways.
Coming in reds, purples, blues, yellows, and every colour in between, these beautiful garments can be seen on women at temples, participating in celebrations, or even just completing their daily activities.
Their lovely shades and intricate patterns bring flare and festivity to daily life. What’s more, the more elaborate saris worn on special occasions are often passed down over generations!
A highlight of my trip was on a visit to one of the temples in Udaipur, where I got to take in a group of women performing a traditional dance. Dressed in saris of all shades, they made a splendid site!
6. Sunrise at the Taj Mahal
The Taj Mahal is perhaps the very first thing to come to mind when someone mentions India.
Considered one of the most well-known wonders of the world, this immense mausoleum of gleaming white marble was built between 1631 and 1648 in memory of the Moghul emperor Shah Jahan’s favourite wife.
The Taj Mahal is seen as a crowning jewel of Muslim art, and only an in-person visit allows you to experience its full majesty.
I travelled in India during the hot and dry season, which I would only advise for those who don’t mind the heat.
The payoff, though, was a stunning morning of the Taj almost free from other people. I can honestly say that the view of the empty Taj Mahal bathed in the warm reds and oranges of the rising sun makes the list of the most beautiful sites I have ever seen.
Of course, the Taj is far from India’s only stunning monument. The lavish palaces of Udaipur rivaled any in Europe, and the view over Jaipur from ancient Amber Fort was spectacular! However, the Taj holds a special place in the heart of anyone who travels to India.
My journey to India showed me how unique of a country it really is. Each corner offers new sites, traditions and experiences.
If you haven’t been there, it should earn a place near the top of your future travel plans!
If you have already experienced the wonders India has to offer, I hope that, like me, you can’t wait to go back!
If you’d like to start researching or planning your future India journey, you can browse through our full offering of India tours here. Our curated selection of Special Value Tours to India have departure dates and prices available up until the end of 2022!
My journey to India showed me how unique of a country it really is. Each corner offers new sites, traditions and experiences.
The state of Rajasthan in India is also known for its magical excursions. The cities of Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Udaipur are filled with magnificent palaces, stunning forts, and beautiful lakes that transport visitors to a bygone era. Exploring the intricate architecture of these palaces and forts, such as the Amber Fort and the City Palace, is like stepping into a fairytale. Additionally, a visit to the backwaters of Kerala is a magical experience in itself. The serene and tranquil waters, lined with tall palm trees and vibrant houseboats, offer a unique opportunity to relax and rejuvenate amidst nature's beauty. Cruising through the picturesque canals and lagoons of the backwaters, while being served traditional Kerala cuisine on board, is an unforgettable experience. India's wildlife sanctuaries and national parks also provide magical excursions for nature lovers. One can embark on a safari in Ranthambore National Park or Kaziranga National Park, among others, to spot majestic tigers, elephants, and one-horned rhinoceroses in their natural habitats. The lush greenery and the thrill of encountering these magnificent creatures up close make for an awe-inspiring adventure. In conclusion, India offers a plethora of magical excursions that are sure to leave a lasting impression on any traveler. Whether it's exploring architectural wonders, witnessing spiritual rituals, immersing oneself in the beauty of nature, or encountering exotic wildlife, India's diverse offerings provide an enchanting experience for all..
Reviews for "Spiritual Journeys in India: Magical Excursions to Sacred Places"
1. Emily - 2 stars - I was not impressed with Magical Excursions of India. The tour guide seemed disinterested and rushed through the sites without giving us much information. The accommodations were subpar and not what was advertised. Overall, I felt like I didn't get value for my money and would not recommend this tour to others.
2. John - 1 star - I was extremely disappointed with Magical Excursions of India. The itinerary was misleading and we didn't get to see half of the promised attractions. The tour guide was unprofessional and seemed more interested in selling us souvenirs rather than providing a quality experience. The transportation was uncomfortable and unreliable, making the whole trip a frustrating experience. I strongly advise against booking with this company.
3. Sarah - 2 stars - I had high expectations for Magical Excursions of India, but unfortunately, it fell short. The tour guide lacked enthusiasm and seemed to be going through the motions. The organization was poor, with limited time allotted for each destination and rushed experiences. The overall experience left me feeling underwhelmed and unsatisfied. I would not recommend this tour to others seeking a magical trip to India.
4. David - 1 star - My experience with Magical Excursions of India was a nightmare. The tour guide was unprofessional, making inappropriate jokes throughout the trip. The accommodations were dirty and uncomfortable, far from the advertised luxury experience. It felt like a complete waste of both time and money. I would strongly advise against booking with this company if you want a pleasant and enjoyable vacation.