Choose from 1,872 Fun Things to Do in Asia
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Ishigaki Island
Travelers looking to escape the energy and excitement of Okinawa can find a relaxing respite on the shores of Ishigaki Island. Although this popular destination ranks among the Yaeyama Islands’ most populated centers—the silver shores of Ishigaki are a globetrotter’s delight. Visitors can float across the emerald waters of Kabira Bay aboard glass-bottom boats and wander around Kabira Park promenade where epic views are prove to be more than photoworthy.
Well-kept dressing rooms complete with showers and toilets, shaded areas and shallow waters make Sukuji Beach ideal for families looking to wade through the coast’s crystal clear waters. And travelers without small children will love the uninterrupted views of Uganzaki lighthouse in the far distance. Yonehara’s coral reefs attract both novice and experienced snorkelers who say the close-to-shore aquatic life is some of the best on the island.
Practical Info
Although inexpensive boat trips can be purchased last minute from luxury liners that have not reached capacity, there is no official ferry service to the island. Most travelers arrive and depart via Ishigaki Airport, and while taxis, bicycles and buses are available on the island, visitors agree the city is easy to explore on foot.
Address: Ishigaki Island, Japan
From $ 34
ISKCON Temple of New Delhi
Delhi’s ISKCON Temple is a large, contemporary temple complex that features a modern take on an eclectic array of traditional Indian architectural styles. It's the local hub of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (aka the Hare Krishnas) and provides a good introduction to Vedic beliefs, especially for Westerners.
The Basics
Along with a main temple and multiple shrines, this large complex features a restaurant, multiple bookstores, and a Vedic museum featuring a robotics show, an art gallery, and a "quadroscope," a sort of video globe showing an animated video about the sacred Bhagavad Gita text. It's a popular stop on South Delhi tours and is frequently visited in conjunction with the nearby Baha'i House of Worship, the Lotus Temple.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The ISKCON Temple of New Delhi is a must-visit for those interested in spirituality and local culture.
- Remember to dress modestly, with clothes that cover shoulders and knees.
- Shoes aren’t allowed in the shrines, but you can leave your shoes at a secure shoe-check area.
How to Get There
The ISKCON Temple is located in eastern South Delhi, within a 20-minute walk from both the Lotus Temple and the Shri Kalkaji Mandir. It’s about a 20-minute drive from Connaught Place, Delhi’s de facto city center, though the trip can take considerably longer during periods of dense traffic. The nearest metro stop is at Nehru Place (a 14-minute walk away), which connects to central Delhi via the Violet Line.
When to Get There
The ISKCON complex is open throughout the year, from early morning until well into the evening, though the main temple hall closes for a few hours in the middle of the day. Prayer ceremonies, lectures, and devotional chanting sessions take place throughout the day, with special programs on key religious holidays, such as Krishna Janmashtami (which honors the birth of Lord Krishna, in August or September) and Holi (the festival of colors, in February or March).
Govinda’s Restaurant
ISKCON is known for its food, and The Higher Taste cookbook is one of their most popular publications. You can try many of their dishes at the Delhi temple’s Govinda’s Restaurant, which offers around 18 different dishes daily at lunch and dinner, served buffet style. All of the food here is vegetarian (without eggs) and cooked without garlic or onions or excessive spice, and many of the options are vegan.
Address: India
From $ 21
Jade Buddha Temple (Yufo Si)
Jade Buddha Temple (Yufo Si) is a working Buddhist monastery—one of the few in China. The star attractions of the Jade Buddha Temple are two figures brought to Shanghai from Singapore by a monk from Burma in the 19th century: a 6.5-foot (2-meter) seated jade Buddha encrusted with semiprecious stones and a smaller white jade reclining Buddha.
The Basics
While fairly new by Chinese standards—it was completed in 1918—the Jade Buddha Temple remains one of the city’s most popular attractions thanks to the jade Buddha statues within. Just about every Shanghai sightseeing tour stops at the temple, along with other popular points of interest, such as the Bund, Yu Garden, the French Concession, and the Shanghai Museum, depending on the option chosen. Shanghai’s hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus also stops at the temple.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The temple is a must-see for first-time visitors and those interested in Chinese religion.
- Leave yourself about an hour to enjoy the temple grounds, a bit more if you plan to eat at the on-site vegetarian restaurant.
- The temple charges separate entrance fees for the temple itself and for the hall where the sitting Buddha is housed.
- Shanghai tours that visit the Jade Buddha Temple often last about eight hours.
- Photography is not permitted within the Jade Buddha Chamber.
How to Get There
The easiest way to get to the temple is to take the Shanghai Metro (Line 13) to Jiangning Road Station and leave through exit 4. From there it’s about a 5-minute walk to the temple along Anyuan Road.
When to Get There
Since the temple is a popular stop on guided tours, those visiting independently should arrive first thing in the morning when the temple opens. Avoid visiting during the Lunar New Year when tens of thousands of Chinese Buddhists come to pray for prosperity.
Halls of the Jade Buddha Temple
The temple is divided into several different sections, the most notable being the Jade Buddha Chamber and Reclining Buddha Hall where the two famous statues are housed. Before you get there, you’ll pass through the Hall of Heavenly Kings, where four statues look toward the four cardinal points, and the Grand Hall with its copper-colored statue of Guanyin. The Grand Hall leads to a quiet courtyard, where stairs lead to the jade Buddha chambers.
Address: Anyuan Lu, Shanghai, China
Admission: Varies
From $ 31
Ipoh
Ipoh, the capital of Malaysia’s Perak state, is the country’s fourth-largest city and serves as the gateway to the cool peaks, waterfalls and tea plantations of the Cameron Highlands. While many travelers head out of Ipoh almost as soon as they arrive, it’s worth taking a day or two to enjoy this colonial city.
Ipoh’s excellent collection of British colonial architecture is a testament to the city’s wealth, which developed thanks to a tin-mining boom in the early 1800s. Walk the streets of Ipoh’s Old Town and you’ll also see one of the country’s most extensive areas of Chinese shop-house architecture.
Foodies will find that Ipoh is also famous for having one of Malaysia’s best regional cuisines, with specialties like chicken with bean sprouts and crispy golden kaya puffs.
Practical Info
Ipoh is located 126 miles (203 km) northwest of Kuala Lumpur and can be reached by a two- to three-hour train ride or by taking one of the twice-daily flights.
Address: Ipoh, Malaysia
Hours: Daily
From $ 100
Inner Court
During the time when the Forbidden City served as the residence for the imperial family, the palace was divided into an inner and outer court. The outer court was where the emperor came to conduct official business, and the inner court served as the living quarters and private gardens for the royal family. In the days of the Ming Dynasty, only royal family members, the emperor’s concubines and eunuchs were allowed within the walls of the inner court.
Visitors enter the inner court by passing through the Gate of Heavily Purity (Qianqing Men) flanked by two bronze lion statues. Inside, the court contains three halls similar to the three found in the outer court. The Palace of Heavenly Purity was where the emperors lived until the 1720s, while the Hall of Union houses the throne of the empress. The third hall, the Palace of Earthly Tranquility, contains an imperial bedchamber of the empress. Behind the halls, you’ll find the Imperial Garden, a private retreat for the royal family members.
Visitors enter the inner court by passing through the Gate of Heavily Purity (Qianqing Men) flanked by two bronze lion statues. Inside, the court contains three halls similar to the three found in the outer court. The Palace of Heavenly Purity was where the emperors lived until the 1720s, while the Hall of Union houses the throne of the empress. The third hall, the Palace of Earthly Tranquility, contains an imperial bedchamber of the empress. Behind the halls, you’ll find the Imperial Garden, a private retreat for the royal family members.
Address: 4 Jingshan Qianjie, Beijing, China
Hours: Open: Apr 1 - Oct 31: 8:30am - 5pm; Jul 7 - Aug 26: 8am - 5pm; Nov 1 - Mar 31: 8:30am - 4:30pm. Closed Monday Afternoons except holidays.
Admission: Adult: Apr 1 - Oct 31: CNY 60; Nov 1 - Mar 31: CNY 40. Student: CNY 20
From $ 72
Insadong
Insadong is Seoul’s cultural and artistic hub—the place to shop for local crafts, visit a traditional Korean tea shop, or catch an impromptu street performance. The neighborhood, located in the Jongno-gu district, offers one of the largest antiques and craft markets in the country, with many shops and cafés housed in historic buildings.
The Basics
Insadong is one of the Korean capital’s most popular neighborhoods. Locals and foreign visitors alike come here for its shopping, art scene, and traditional Korean teahouses. Most sightseeing tours of Seoul make a stop in this neighborhood, along with nearby Changdeokgung Palace. Insadong is also one of 22 stops on the Seoul hop-on hop-off bus.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Insadong is a must-see for art lovers, shoppers, and first-time visitors to Seoul.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces; some of the streets are cobbled.
- Come hungry; Insadong has some of the best street food in Seoul.
- Combine your visit to Insadong with a stop at either Gyeongbokgung or Changdeokgung Palace; both are nearby.
How to Get There
Insadong is centrally located and easy to reach by taking one of several public bus lines, or by riding the metro to Anguk Station (Line 3) or Jonggak Station (Line 1).
When to Get There
Insadong comes alive on the weekends, when the main street is blocked off to vehicle traffic and the pedestrian area fills with vendors, fortune tellers, and buskers making the most of the weekend crowds. Many of Insadong’s shops and galleries are closed Monday.
What to Buy in Insadong
The markets and shops of Insadong are some of the best places in the city to pick up gifts and souvenirs to take back home. Favorites include traditional Korean masks, decorated chopstick sets, calligraphy scrolls, handmade paper and stationary, or personalized stamps with your name in Korean letters.
Address: South Korea
From $ 18
Itsukushima Shrine
Itsukushima Shrine, a Shinto holy site on Miyajima Island in the Seto Island Sea near Hiroshima, has a history dating back to the sixth century, when the first shrines were likely erected on the island, believed to be the above of gods. The iconic red torii, or shrine gate, that appears to float on the surface of the water just of the shores, guards the UNESCO-listed shrine. At the time the shrine was built, commoners weren’t allowed to step foot on the island due to its holy status, so the gate and temple were constructed in the water to allow visitors to approach by boat.
The entire Itsukushima complex, which in its present form dates back to the twelfth century, comprises several buildings connected by boardwalks, including a prayer hall and a performance stage.
Practical Info
For the best views of the shrine and its torii, plan to visit Miyajima Island during high tide when they’re both surrounded by water instead of mud.
Address: 1-1 Miyajimacho Hatsukaichi, Hiroshima, Japan
From $ 41
Intramuros
The colonial heart of Manila, Intramuros—which means “within the walls”—is the capital’s oldest district and home to some of its most impressive historic monuments. Founded by the Spaniards in the 16th century, the gigantic stone citadel is surrounded by impressively preserved city walls, stretching for almost 3 miles (5 kilometers).
The Basics
Many Manila city tours include a visit to Intramuros, and a walking tour is a popular way to explore the many historic attractions within the walls. Highlights include the mighty waterfront Fort Santiago, home to the Rizal Shrine, a tribute to Philippine national hero, Jose Rizal; San Agustin Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest churches in the country; the 16th-century Manila Cathedral; and the fascinating Casa Manila Museum. Leave plenty of time to browse the souvenir and handicraft shops, and enjoy a coffee at one of the lively cafés, too. Some excursions combine a tour of the city with an evening dinner cruise.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Parts of Intramuros are pedestrianized, but pedicabs and horse-drawn carriages (calesas) are also popular ways to get around.
- There is no admission to enter the Intramuros district, but attractions, such as Fort Santiago and San Agustin, do charge a small entrance fee.
- Wear comfortable shoes—roads can be uneven around the historic district.
- There are numerous shops, cafés, and restaurants located in and around the walled district.
How to Get There
Intramuros is located close to the port on the south bank of the Pasig River, and there are numerous entry points to the walled town. The closest train station is Central Terminal. Alternatively, the easiest way to access Intramuros is by taxi.
When to Get There
Make an early start to avoid the heat and the crowds, as you’ll likely be doing a lot of walking. While it’s possible to visit Intramuros at any time, most attractions close around 6pm. Be aware that museums are typically closed Mondays.
Walled City of Intramuros
Spanish governor Miguel Lopez de Legaspi founded the walled city of Intramuros in 1571. At the time, it was the entire city of Manila. With its 20-foot-high (6 meter) walls, moats on all sides, and seven fortified gateways, the 163-acre (66-hectare) citadel was impenetrable. However, the city sustained considerable damage during World War II bombings and extensive restoration work has since taken place on the walls, city gates, and many of the historic buildings.
Address: Manila, Philippines
From $ 48
Jagalchi Fish Market
South Korea has become famous among travelers for its freshly caught seafood, and you’d be hard pressed to find a better place to sample it than at the Jagalchi Fish Market in Busan. The largest seafood market in the country, Jagalchi is unique in that its run largely by women who are known as Jagalchi Ajumma. This tradition dates back to the Korean War, when many of the men were off fighting and their wives took over the family businesses.
Walking through the market is like visiting an exotic aquarium, as many of the wares are kept live in tanks to maximize their freshness. You’ll find nearly any type of seafood you could want, including more varieties of shellfish than you knew existed. The market also houses a collection
of seafood restaurants where you can bring your purchases to have them cooked up and served to you on the spot.
Practical Info
If you want to see the market at its most active, come early in the morning or in the late afternoon hours.
Address: Nampo-dong, Jung-gu, Busan, South Korea
Hours: Daily 5 a.m.-10 p.m.
Closed last Tuesday of every month
From $ 90
ISKCON Temple
High on a hilltop in the north of Bangalore, the ISKCON (International Society for Krishna Consciousness) temple is one of the organization's largest complexes on earth and one of Bangalore's most popular Hindu places of worship. Unlike many of the temples in the city, this one features contemporary architecture and modern interiors.
The Basics
Built in 1997, this enormous temple complex atop a 7-acre (3-hectare) hill is a popular stop on pilgrimages and most city tours. The complex has six shrines, a gold-plated flag post, and various shops selling snacks and religious materials. Daily activities include worship, philosophy talks, and devotional chanting. The temple also runs a variety of special programs for Hindu festivals and other important holidays.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The temple is a great place to visit for those interested in religion and local culture.
- Note that the temple closes a few hours daily for lunch; check ahead for timings.
- Dress conservatively and be prepared to take off your shoes before entering.
How to Get There
The ISKCON Temple is located in the Rajajinagar area of North Bangalore on Chord Road. It’s about 6 miles (10 kilometers) northwest of the city center. The nearest metro station is Mahalakshmi, a 5-minute walk from the temple. The Green Line runs south into the city from here, connecting to the Purple Line at Nadaprabhu Kempegowda Station; for Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace and Bangalore Fort, get off at Krishna Rajendra Market.
When to Get There
The temple is open daily, from early morning until well in the evening, with breaks for lunch on weekdays. It's a year-round attraction, though the most atmospheric time to visit is when the temple community is celebrating one of many Hindu festivals, such as Deepotsava (Diwali) in October or November or Holi (the festival of colors) in early spring.
Hare Krishnas
Adherents of ISKCON are often known in the West as Hare Krishnas for their frequent use of the Hare Krishna mantra. Although the organization has a large presence in India, it was originally founded in the US in the 1960s by A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, an Indian renunciate who played a major role in promoting Indian philosophy in the West, at the peak of the counterculture movement of the '60s and '70s.
Address: Chord Rd, Rajaji Nagar, Bangalore, Karnataka, India 560010, India
From $ 33
ISKCON Temple of Mumbai
Set within four acres, the ISKCON (International Society for Krishna Consciousness) Temple of Mumbai is dedicated to Lord Krishna and is located in the Juhu area of the city. The temple was established by Swami Prabhupada at the end of the 1970s, with the aim to spread the word of Krishna consciousness.
The interior is adorned with a variety of colorful and intricate paintings and statues, making it a captivating place to visit aesthetically as well as spiritually. A number of cultural, spiritual, and educational activities take place at the temple, which visitors can either participate in or simply observe. The ISKCON Temple, however, is mainly used by devotees and visitors as a place for prayer, chanting, and meditation, with many arriving daily from all over the world to chant the mahamantra and take part in the temple’s evening prayers and bhajans.
Practical Info
The ISKCON Temple of Mumbai can be easily reached by train. Andheri is the nearest station, while Ville Parle station is also close by. Auto-rickshaws or taxis can be hired to reach the temple from outside both these stations.
Address: Juhu Church Road, Mumbai, India
From $ 95
Jade Emperor Pagoda
Built at the turn of the 20th century and dedicated to the Taoist god, Emperor Jade Chua Ngoc Hoang (or the God of Heavens), the Jade Emperor Pagoda is a working temple that’s widely considered to be one of the finest and most atmospheric in Ho Chi Minh City.
Beneath a roof adorned with elaborate depictions of dragons, birds, and animals, this fascinating pagoda is filled with exquisite gilt woodcarvings and reinforced papier maché statues of various Buddhist and Taoist deities.
The statue of the Jade Emperor, shrouded in robes and flanked by his guardians, resides in the dramatically named Chamber of 10 Hells. Out the door and to the left of this main chamber is a semi-enclosed room presided over by Thanh Hoang, the Chief of Hell, sitting alongside his red horse, while the Goddess of Mercy, Kuan Yin, an important part of any Taoist temple, has an altar on the top floor.
To the right of the treelined courtyard in front of the temple grounds is an overcrowded tortoise pond, earning the temple its nickname, Tortoise Pagoda.
Practical Info
Due to its location in the center of Ho Chi Minh City, the Jade Emperor Pagoda can be easily accessed from various parts of the city on foot. Alternatively, it can be reached via taxi or public bus.
Address: 73 Mai Thi Luu Street, Ho Chi Minh City, South Vietnam, Vietnam
Hours: 7am-6pm
From $ 26
Inle Lake
The glittering blue waters of Inle Lake lie at the heart of the Shan Highlands, surrounded by verdant hills. Myanmar’s second-largest lake is a popular destination for intrepid travelers, who come to cruise the lake, soak up the scenery, and experience local life in the lakeside fishing villages.
The Basics
Visitors can explore Inle Lake on a half- or full-day cruise, a bike tour, or a day trip from Nyaungshwe. Lake cruises often stop at monuments such as Shwe Yan Pyay Monastery, Nga Phe Kyaung Monastery, or Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda, and offer the chance to see birds and other wildlife. Equally fascinating is the chance to learn about the Intha people who inhabit lakeside bamboo stilt houses connected by bridges and boats.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Pack sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, as there’s little shade once out on the water.
- There are a number of bed-and-breakfasts, restaurants, and souvenir stalls dotted around the lake.
- Inle is a great place to pick up traditional handicrafts, especially silver items, silk scarves, and woven Shan-bags.
- Most cruises take place on wooden longboats that require passengers to clamber on board from makeshift jetties, so access for wheelchair users or others with mobility issues may not be possible.
How to Get to There
Inle Lake is located in central Myanmar, a fair distance from all the main cities. Buses run from Yangon (13 hours) or Mandalay (seven hours), but a more convenient option is to take a domestic flight to Heho airport, about an hour away. Taxis are available at the airport.
When to Get There
Most visitors arrive between October and February in order to avoid monsoon season. For the lushest scenery, visit in October or November, when water levels are still high, and consider timing your visit to coincide with the Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda Festival (October), when colorful parades of boats float along the lake.
Fishermen of Inle Lake
Watch for Inle’s local fishermen, the “leg rowers.” They stand on one leg on the back of their skiffs, pinch the rudder with the other leg, and hold it with one arm. The other arm is used to swirl the water around with paddles, forcing fish to emerge from the plant growth and swim into waiting baskets and nets.
Address: Myanmar
From $ 7
Iriomote Island
Beautiful Iriomote Island is one of the most remote spots in the Japanese archipelago. Not a lot has changed on the island in recent decades, and 90 percent of it remains blanketed in jungle and mangrove forest, the abode of the rare Iriomote wildcat. While the interior of the island, the second largest of the Okinawa Islands, can be explored via kayak, riverboat or trek, the main draw for most of the island’s visitors are the colorful reefs covered in virgin coral that ring the island.
Snorkelers and divers who explore beneath the surface near Iriomote might spot dolphins and manta rays, who school along the aptly named Manta Way during the spring and summer.
Practical Info
Iriomote Island is accessible via high-speed ferry service from Ishigaki Island, located about 12 miles (20 kilometers) away. Many of the island’s resorts and lodges offer free transportation to and from the port.
Address: Iriomote-jima, Okinawa, Japan
From $ 34
Indo-Portuguese Museum
The Indo-Portuguese Museum was set up by the late Bishop of Kochi to preserve and showcase the significant influence of the Portuguese Catholic community in Fort Kochi and its surrounding areas. It depicts the art, architecture, and culture of this community and is a popular attraction for visitors to Kochi.
The museum is divided into five main sections, each relating to the particular type of artefacts on display. These sections are: Altar, Treasure, Procession, Civil Life and Cathedral. It’s home to some well-known collections of artistic and architectural merit, all of which bear the mark of Portuguese influence. Some of the most famous and interesting pieces include part of a teak-wood church altar from the 16th century, a 19th-century chasuble, a processional cross made from silver and wood, and the notable Coat of Arms of the Franciscans.
Practical Info
The Indo-Portuguese Museum is located inside the grounds of the Bishop's House in Fort Kochi. The nearest railway station is Ernakulam around 12 kilometers away but it’s easily reachable from almost anywhere in the Fort Kochi area. Opening hours are 10am to 5pm daily, although the museum is closed on Mondays and public holidays. There is a small entrance fee most days, with free entry on the first Thursday of every month.
Address: Bishop Kureethara Rd, Kochi, Kerala, India 682001, India
From $ 35
Inokashira Park
The pond within Inokashira Park was the first water source for the city of Edo—which today is Tokyo. One of the city’s most utilized green spaces, the park is particularly lovely during prime cherry-blossom viewing (hanami) and leaf peeping (momijigari) times. Inokashira also houses the famous Ghibli Museum, dedicated to Japanese anime.
The Basics
Inokashira Park was established in 1918, essentially as a gift from the emperor to the Japanese people. Inokashira Pond stretches through the park and connects to the Kanda River. The park is a popular place to come for a picnic, rent a paddleboat, or visit the resident petting zoo, aquarium, or Ghibli Museum.
Travelers often explore Inokashira Park before or after visiting the Ghibli Museum, which showcases the work of Japanese anime company Studio Ghibli.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Inokashira Park is ideal for all first-time visitors to Tokyo, especially those headed to the Ghibli Museum.
- The Kichijoji station food hall is a good place to pick up a bento box for a picnic lunch.
- While Inokashira Park is always open and free, its zoo is closed on Mondays and charges an entry fee.
- Tickets for the popular swan-shaped paddleboat rentals are time stamped, so even during busy periods, you are assured a chance to have a ride.
How to Get There
Inokashira Park, in western Tokyo, is accessible by JR or Keio trains. It’s right beside Inokashira-kōen station on the Keio Inokashira line, and a 5-minute walk from Kichijōji station and a 15-minute walk from Mitaka station, both on the JR Chuo Line.
When to Get There
Inokashira Park is open 24 hours a day. Like many of Tokyo’s parks, spring is a great time to visit, as the soft pink cherry blossoms bring many visitors and a festive atmosphere. Other seasons have their attractions as well, with lush greenery in summer, fall leaves in autumn, and migrating birds in winter.
The Ghibli Museum
For many travelers who come to Japan to experience its unique anime (animation) culture, the Ghibli Museum is an essential stop. But not only anime enthusiasts love the museum—it appeals to a range of curious minds, including kids, technology enthusiasts, and lovers of fine art. The museum has permanent and temporary exhibits as well as an on-site café, bookshop, rooftop garden, and theater. You must buy tickets in advance through the website or at Lawson convenience stores within Japan; it’s recommended to do so as far in advance as possible. The Ghibli is open from 10am to 6pm Wednesday through Sunday.
Address: 4 Inokashira, Mitaka, Tokyo, Japan
From $ 122
Jagannath Temple Puri
Located in Puri on the eastern coast of India, Jagannath Temple Puri has a history dating back to the eleventh century, when it was built under the direction of King Anantavarman Chodaganga Deva. The temple is part of the Char Dham, a series of our pilgrimage sites every Hindu is supposed to visit during their lifetime.
Worshippers come to the inner sanctum of the temple to honor the god Jagannath, an avatar of Vishnu, as well as Subhadra (the younger sister of Krishna in the epic Mahabharata) and Balarama (the older brother of Krishna and an avatar of Shesha). During Rath Yatra, the temple’s most important festival, the trinity of deities are paraded to nearby Gundicha Temple, where they remain for nine days before the parade back to Jagannath Temple.
Typical of Orissan temples of the time, Jagannath Temple features a series of ornate, pyramid-like towers called shikharas. The tallest tower, which rises above the inner sanctum, measures 214 feet (65 meters).
Practical Info
While only Hindus are allowed inside the temple’s inner sanctum, visitors can still enjoy the intricate temple architecture from the outside.
Address: Grand Road, Puri, Odisha, India
From $ 77
Jagdish Temple
Jagdish Temple—in the heart of Udaipur's Old City—is a stone's throw from the City Palace. This 3-story structure dates back to 1651 and its architecture is the main draw. Its intricately sculpted bell roof and columns are stunning but it's also worth sticking around to listen to devotional singing—a regular feature here.
The Basics
Most visitors to Udaipur pay at least a cursory visit to the Jagdish Temple, and it's a major stop on most half- and full-day guided tours of the city. Interesting features include a large brass image of Garuda, the half-man, half-eagle steed of the Hindu Lord Vishnu, and the 100-odd pillars depicting scenes from Hindu mythology. Just outside the temple is a slab of marble believed to have curative properties against aches and pains.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The temple is a must-visit for those interested in architecture, history, or religion.
- Remember to wear clothes covering your knees and shoulders.
- Shoes must be removed before entering the temple.
- Entering the temple requires climbing a steep marble staircase with 32 steps.
How to Get There
Jagdish Temple is located in the heart of the Old City of Udaipur, a 2-minute walk from the ticket counter for the City Palace and on the southern end of Chand Pol Bazaar. It's a quick walk from the banks of Lake Pichola, while getting to the Udaipur City railway station in the heart of the busy city center takes about 10 to 15 minutes by car.
When to Get There
The best time to visit Udaipur is between November and February, when temperatures are at their coolest. Things begin to heat up in March and really peak toward the end of May and into June. Monsoons in late June through September cools things down a bit, despite the fact that Udaipur gets less rainfall than many other parts of Northern India, due to its desert climate.
Who is Jagdish?
As the name suggests, this temple is dedicated to Jagdish, a form of the Hindu deity Vishnu more commonly known as Jagannath. He's often associated with Lord Krishna (also an avatar of Vishnu) and is frequently depicted as a black stone, as is the case at the Udaipur Jagdish Temple.
Address: City Palace Complex, Udaipur, Rajasthan 313001, India
From $ 7
Innovative Film City
This movie studio-themed amusement park — a popular family outing in the area — offers quite the variety of activities. What the park is lacking in traditional theme park rides, it makes up for in variety; there’s a cartoon-themed area populated by giant versions of popular Indian animated characters, water park, mini golf course, Dino Park with life-sized replicas, petting zoo, mirror maze, haunted house and even a traditional “talkies” movie house.
Four small museums display fossils, wax figures, Indian tribal art and general oddities, and the popular Bigg Boss Tour takes visitors behind-the-scenes of India’s famous reality television show. For an extra fee, visitors can try go karting, dirt biking, zip lining, mechanical bull riding or even cricket playing.
Practical Info
The entrance fee to Innovative Film City is discounted after 3pm — a worthwhile discount if you’re only planning to spend a few hours there anyway.
Address: 24 & 26, Bidadi Industrial Estate, Bangalore, India
Hours: 10am to 7pm
Admission: 599 rupees
From $ 7
Jade Market
In Chinese culture jade is associated with long life and purity and many locals in Hong Kong wear protective jade pendants based on their birthday and zodiac. If the jade cracks that means some sort of bad luck has been averted.
An enormous three ton hunk of jade makes the beginning of the “jade street” section of Canton Road in Kowloon. Here you'll find more than 400 stalls selling jade bangles, rings, earrings and more.
Fakes, colored stones and low quality pieces abound, so unless you're an expert don't invest in any expensive pieces. This is a great place however to pick up inexpensive souvenirs or gifts. Buying a piece of jade here is a great cultural experience. The vendors love to tell stories about their stones and many of the same sellers have been at the market for decades. Don't forget to bargain: if the seller accepts you're first offer that means you are paying too much.
An enormous three ton hunk of jade makes the beginning of the “jade street” section of Canton Road in Kowloon. Here you'll find more than 400 stalls selling jade bangles, rings, earrings and more.
Fakes, colored stones and low quality pieces abound, so unless you're an expert don't invest in any expensive pieces. This is a great place however to pick up inexpensive souvenirs or gifts. Buying a piece of jade here is a great cultural experience. The vendors love to tell stories about their stones and many of the same sellers have been at the market for decades. Don't forget to bargain: if the seller accepts you're first offer that means you are paying too much.
Address: Kansu St and Battery St, Hong Kong, China
Hours: Open 9am - 6pm Daily.
From $ 59