India is manic yet marvellous, dirty yet delightful, crowded yet capacious, a land of contradictions whilst remaining a place of spiritual enlightenment and human endeavour. A land of temples and palaces, of mountains peaks and rain forests, of golden beaches and ancient ruins, exotic flora and majestic fauna; India is a complete destination.
Some of the key places to see are listed below.
The Lotus Temple, Delhi
Located in a suburb south of Delhi, the Lotus Temple is one of eight Bahai Temples around the world. The temple is
more than 40 meters high; its roof is in the shape of an open lotus flower. Its architecture was inspired by Iranian architect Fariborz Shaba. Opened to the public around 1986, the Temple reflects the Unity of Religion and of humanity. It is free of decoration. All visitors of whatever faith may come to meditate or worship, but sermons and lectures are not permitted.
Meditation must be done in silence. The temple also houses a reception hall, a library, as well as exhibition halls. It is aesthetically beautiful and spiritually peaceful.
The Hill Forts of Rajasthan
These monuments are really extraordinary. Located in the north of the country, the ancient fortifications are perched on the hills and overlook rivers, forests and deserts. They then blend into the landscape of Rajasthan. They are imposing and some are more than 20 kilometres in diameter. The towers trace the power of the Rajput princely states during the period between the 8th and the 19th centuries. You will find traces of ancient cities with trading centres, temples and some sacred buildings. The buildings that have survived the time are on UNESCO’s list of World Heritage. There are altogether six towers on the hill. They symbolize courage and sacrifice. Many artists are inspired to create their songs.
The Backwaters of Kerala
Stretching down the southwestern coast of India, Kerala is lush with a long monsoon season which makes it one of the greenest states in India as well as one of the wettest. The hillsides are rich with tea plantations and the lower coastal plains are filtered with backwaters, lakes and canals. This verdant of states is wisely named as God’s Own Country. Kerala has an excellent infrastructure and offers plenty for the visitor including Ayurveda spas, wildlife parks, tea estates, culture, cuisine, backwater boat trips and much more.
The Monasteries of Leh Ladakh
Leh-Ladakh is the most beautiful destination in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. This is the place where you will find adventure seekers. The road trip is the most famous activity to perform in Ladakh. There are several monasteries to visit where you can admire the lifestyle, culture and religious practices of the monks.
The Ghats of Varanasi
A city dominated by its relationship with the River Ganges is famous for its numerous ghats (riverfront steps), which offer locals and pilgrims access to the holy waters of the Ganges. There are 88 ghats in all, most of which are used for bathing and puja (prayer) but two are kept purely for cremation ceremonies. A boat ride is a must – and probably the best way to absorb the texture and flavour of this holy city.
