Choose from 274 Fun Things to Do in India
ShowingFilter 81-100 of 274 listings.
Elephanta Caves
The Elephanta Caves are among the most beautiful, historically significant attractions in Mumbai. Situated on an island off the coast, this UNESCO World Heritage Site features multiple rock-hewn cave temples and statues dating back to around the 7th century AD, including a celebrated statue of Shiva in his three-faced form.
The Basics
There are two groups of caves at the site: one featuring five caves dedicated to Hindu deities, and a second group with two Buddhist shrines. While there's a lot of debate about the true origins of the caves, there are elements of South Indian Badami Chalukya architecture as well as architectural styles from the Gupta Empire.
Many city tours come to the island, and going with a guide can help you make sense of the caves, as the signage here isn’t the greatest.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Elephanta Caves are a must-visit for those with an interest in history, art, or religion.
- Bring water, sun protection, and comfortable shoes.
- Beware of naughty monkeys, particularly on the stairs leading up to the attraction.
- This attraction is not suitable for those with compromised mobility, and accessing it requires climbing lots of steps.
How to Get There
Elephanta Island is located in the Mumbai Harbour, about 5.5 miles (9 kilometers) northeast of the Gateway of India monument, from which boats to the attraction depart. Once on the island, travelers can take a miniature train up to a tall, steep set of stairs that lead up to the monument.
When to Get There
The caves are open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:30am to 5:30pm. It's best to get there first thing in the morning to beat crowds and hot temperatures, but if you come in the evening, try to get on the last boat of the day, when things have quieted down. Note that visiting during monsoon season may make for a choppier boat ride to the island and back.
Monkey Business
You may see lots of monkeys while on the island (and all over India, in general, especially in rural areas). On Elephanta Island, you’re most likely to encounter them on the stairs leading up to the monument, and they can be aggressive and carry disease. Do not feed them, and keep an eye on any possessions you may have, from food to the eyeglasses on your head, as they are known to pickpocket the inattentive.
Address: India
Admission: Varies
From $ 39
Dutch Cemetery
The Dutch Cemetery in Kochi is believed to be the oldest in the country, dating back to the beginning of the 18th century. It houses the tombs of Dutch soldiers and traders who left their homeland in order to expand their colonial empires – and as a result changed the entire course of history in India.
The cemetery is distinctly Dutch in its architecture and is surrounded by concrete walls. The year 1724 is engraved on a pillar towering over the cemetery’s entrance. Many of the tombs are made of granite and the epitaphs on each show the authentic records of those of both Dutch and British origin etched out in old Dutch script. According to T W Venn, who published a book on the subject, the last person laid to rest in the Dutch Cemetery in Kochi was Captain Joseph Ethelbert Winckler in 1913.
Practical Info
The Dutch Cemetery is located on the road that runs parallel to Fort Kochi Beach. Its gates are usually kept locked but are opened on the request of polite visitors (Ask at nearby St Francis Church).
Address: Kochi, Kerala, India, India
From $ 35
Ganges River
Named after the Hindu goddess, Ganga, the Ganges River is the second largest river on the Indian subcontinent, flowing through some of the most densely populated regions of India and Bangladesh. The Ganges is a much-revered and holy river in Hindu culture and is widely regarded as the epitome of India’s traditions and lifestyle.
The Ganges River starts in the Himalayas and empties into the Bay of Bengal, supporting many rural and urban communities along the way. It is of course known for being highly polluted, yet pilgrims come from far and wide to purify themselves in the waters they consider sacred. Whether for spiritual reasons or to simply enjoy the sights from aboard a boat ride, people are drawn to the banks of the Ganges River from all over the world.
Between Malda and the Bay of Bengal, a distributary of the Ganges River named the ‘Hooghly River’ passes the towns and cities of Murshidabad, Nabadwip, Kolkata and Howrah. Sagar Island is an island in the Ganges that lies on the continental shelf of the Bay of Bengal and is home to Ganga Sagar – an important Hindu pilgrimage site. Taking a day trip from Kolkata to Ganga Sagar is a popular attraction for many visitors to Kolkata.
Practical Info
Most people book a day tour to experience the sights and sounds of the Ganges River from Kolkata.
Address: Kolkata, West Bengal, India, India
From $ 140
Fashion Street
One of the best places to score bargains in all of Mumbai, Fashion Street is a stretch of shops and market stalls selling inexpensive clothing and accessories, with a focus on international women's wear. While most people come here to bargain hunt, the people watching and abundant street food options make it worth a visit for everyone.
The Basics
Fashion Street has long been popular with local fashionistas and students on a budget, but its South Mumbai location near many of the city's major attractions makes it equally appealing to international tourists who love to shop. Few city tours stop here, but it's easy enough to stop by if you are visiting one of the many area attractions, such as the Bombay High Court or Victoria Terminus.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Don’t forget sunscreen and water, as the market can get hot.
- Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for plenty of walking.
- Be prepared to bargain—shopkeepers will expect it and quote you high prices accordingly.
How to Get There
Fashion Street spans a 1.4-mile (2-kilometer) section of South Mumbai's MG Road, across from Azad Maidan. It’s easy to reach by train: it’s about a 10-minute walk each to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Railway Station (aka Victoria Terminus) and to the Churchgate station. Alternatively, it’s a 5- to 10-minute drive to the Gateway of India.
When to Get There
Most of the shops on Fashion Street are open daily from 11 to 9. You’re best off visiting first thing in the morning, as selling to the first person who browses at your shop is believed to bring good luck. While the market is a year-round destination, monsoon rain in July and August can make this largely outdoor shopping experience uncomfortable.
Brand-Name Discounts
While it’s not unheard of to find knockoffs of major international brands at Fashion Street, many of the items here, particularly those with labels from major high-street brands, are authentic. Many of the items here are simply factory surplus or have slight manufacturing defects, making them unsuitable for export but good enough to sell at rock-bottom prices at the market.
Address: MG Road, Mumbai, India
From $ 44
Gandhi Smriti
The Gandhi Smriti in New Delhi is the location where Mahatma Gandhi spent his last 144 days before he was assassinated on Jan. 30, 1948. The site was originally the house of Indian business tycoons, the Birla family, but is now home to the Eternal Gandhi Multimedia Museum, which opened in 2005.
Concrete steps lead to the spot where Gandhi was killed, which is marked by a small pavilion. The adjacent house, where he spent his last days, contains rooms preserved just as Gandhi left them; in the room where he slept are his meagre possessions – just a walking stick, a spinning wheel, a pair of sandals and his glasses. Upstairs is where the Eternal Gandhi Multimedia Museum is located, which presents abstract sculptures, video displays, and sound installations about Gandhi.
Practical Info
The Gandhi Smriti is located at 5 Tees January Marg, a couple of kilometers from Connaught Place. It’s open from 10am to 5pm daily but is closed on Mondays and public holidays.
Address: 5 Tees January Marg, New Delhi, India
Hours: Tuesday-Sunday 10am to 5pm. Closed holidays.
From $ 22
Feroz Shah Kotla Fort
Although Feroz Shah Kotla isn't as famous as some of Delhi's better-known UNESCO World Heritage sites, these ancient ruins provide a fascinating insight into what life was like in the area centuries ago. At the heart of the fort is a third-century sandstone pillar, known as the Ashoka Column, which stands 43 feet (13.1 meters) high.
The Basics
Feroz Shah Kotla was constructed in the 14th century under Feroz Shah Tughlaq, the Sultan of Delhi, who created the city of Firozbad as the capital of the Delhi Sultanate. Although much of the complex has fallen to ruins, many of its most important structures remain intact, including an enormous mosque (the Jami Masjid) and a circular stepwell (baoli).
Although the fort is one of Delhi’s lesser-known archaeological sites, it’s sometimes visited on tours that focus on off-the-beaten-track Delhi attractions.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Wear comfortable shoes; the terrain here is rocky and uneven in places.
- Make sure to bring lots of water and wear sunscreen, as there isn’t a lot of shade here.
- The fort is not wheelchair accessible.
- Nearby points of interest include the Gandhi Museum and Raj Ghat.
How to Get There
Feroz Shah Kotla is in the eastern part of Delhi, right on the border of New Delhi and Old Delhi and is adjacent to the Feroz Shah Kotla Stadium, a cricket stadium used for international matches. It’s about a 15-minute drive from Connaught Place and under a 10-minute drive south of Gandhi Museum and Raj Ghat. It’s a couple of minutes' walk from the Delhi Gate station on the Violet Line of the Delhi Metro.
When to Get There
This fort is open every day from sunrise to sunset, though it's best to visit early morning if you want to avoid the strong midday sun. Thursdays are the most popular day for local visitors, as it's believed that genies (djinns) come to the fort on this day of the week to grant wishes.
The Djinns of Kotla Fort
According to local legend, the fort is haunted, and since the 1970s, people have been visiting here in large numbers on Thursdays to leave letters to djinns. You'll likely see letters written to the head djinn, named Waale Baba, tied to the railings around the Ashoka Pillar.
Address: Ferozabad, New Delhi, India
From $ 36
Fort Cochin
Fort Cochin, aka Fort Kochi, is an historic district and a main draw for tourists in Cochin (Kochi). It’s a charming neighborhood full of colonial-era homes (many of which have been converted into boutique hotels), lovely old houses of worship, charming shops and markets, and the city's famous Chinese fishing nets that flank the harbor.
The Basics
Fort Cochin is a charming historic area on the western end of Cochin notable for its blend of local Malayali and colonial (Portuguese, Dutch, and British) architecture. Here you'll find most of Cochin's most interesting attractions, including St. Francis Church, the Santa Cruz Basilica, the Paradesi Synagogue, and Mattancherry Palace. There’s also a small beach; visit around sunset for a chance to see some of the city’s famous Chinese fishing nets in action. Book a private or group tour, some of which include a Kathakali dance performance.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Fort Cochin is great for culture lovers, shopaholics, and anyone looking to take some gorgeous photos.
- Wear plenty of sunscreen and bring a hat, as the sun can get strong here.
- Fort Cochin is best explored on foot, so comfortable clothes and shoes are a must.
- While it’s expected that you bargain at craft stalls, it’s not appropriate at the area’s many high-end boutiques.
How to Get There
Fort Cochin sits on the northwestern part of Cochin, an historic area filled with attractions, including churches, old Dutch-style homes, and the city’s famous fishing nets. It’s west of the main city of Ernakulam on the mainland, and it takes around a half-hour by taxi to get to the fort, without traffic.
When to Get There
Fort Cochin is great throughout the year, though weather is a big consideration for many travelers. The monsoon season from around June through November can mean lots of flash rainfalls and high humidity, while March, April, and May can be unbearably hot. The driest, coolest time of year is during the winter (December through February), but this is also the most crowded season.
Cochin’s Jewish Community
Cochin has been home to a small Jewish community, possibly since as early as the time of King Solomon, though only a handful remain to this day. The old city is home to the oldest synagogue in the Commonwealth, dating back to 1567, located in an historic area known as Jew Town, with numerous antique shops and even a restaurant serving traditional Cochin-Jewish cuisine.
Address: River Rd., India
Admission: Varies
From $ 45
Ghum Monastery
Darjeeling has a large Tibetan community, and its Ghum Monastery is one of the city's most popular sights. With its traditional architecture and golden exterior detailing, the monastery itself is a sight to behold, but the monastery’s 15-foot-tall (4.6-meter-tall) Maitreya Buddha statue and the views of the surrounding hills are what bring many visitors here.
The Basics
Situated on the outskirts of Darjeeling, at some 8,000 feet (2,438 meters) in elevation, the Ghum Monastery (also called the Yiga Choeling Monastery) is among the oldest Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in West Bengal. It was constructed in 1850 by Mongolian monk and astrologer Sokpo Sherab Gyatso, and today it's run by the Yellow Hat, or Gelugpa, sect. Sunrise tours to nearby Tiger Hill often include stops at the monastery.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Ghum Monastery is a must-see for those with an interest in architecture and spirituality.
- Bring a jacket—it can be chilly here, especially in the early morning.
- The monastery is not suitable for wheelchair users.
How to Get There
Ghum Monastery is located on the outskirts of Darjeeling in the town of Ghum, about 15 minutes by car from the sunrise observatory at Tiger Hill or 20 minutes south from the Darjeeling Clock Tower at the center of town. While there is a narrow-gauge railway to Darjeeling, many people fly to the nearest airport in Siliguri, about a three-hour drive away.
When to Get There
The monastery is open year-round from morning until evening, though many visitors come first thing in the day, often after watching the sunrise from nearby Tiger Hill. The monastery also offers a number of religious celebrations throughout the year, including Tibetan New Year (Losar), usually in February, and the birthday of the Dalai Lama, in July.
India’s Tibetan Community
India has many large Tibetan settlements and a huge population of Tibetan people, largely because the Dalai Lama fled there following the 1959 Tibetan Uprising. The largest settlement is the hamlet of McLeod Ganj, near Dharamsala, where the Dalai Lama himself resides; the Tibetan Government in Exile is also located here.
Address: Darjeeling, West Bengal, India 734102, India
From $ 1,379
Fort Aguada and Lighthouse
Perched on top of a hill overlooking the Arabian Sea, Fort Aguada and its lighthouse once guarded the Portuguese colony against Dutch and Marathas invaders. Built in 1612, the fort is the best preserved and most impressive of any in Goa.
While the large moat and 79 cannons once served to protect India’s Portuguese colonies, Fort Aguada, named after the freshwater springs within its walls, also replenished water supplies of passing ships. The four-story Fort Aguada Lighthouse, built in 1864, is the oldest lighthouse of its kind anywhere in Asia.
The fort sits just over 2 miles (3.2 kilometers) south of Sinquerim Beach, and much of the walk is uphill. Unless you plan to take a taxi or bus, get an early start to tour the fort before the sun beating down on the bare stones makes things too hot for comfort. The fort has few shaded areas, so bring plenty of sunscreen and water with you.
While the large moat and 79 cannons once served to protect India’s Portuguese colonies, Fort Aguada, named after the freshwater springs within its walls, also replenished water supplies of passing ships. The four-story Fort Aguada Lighthouse, built in 1864, is the oldest lighthouse of its kind anywhere in Asia.
The fort sits just over 2 miles (3.2 kilometers) south of Sinquerim Beach, and much of the walk is uphill. Unless you plan to take a taxi or bus, get an early start to tour the fort before the sun beating down on the bare stones makes things too hot for comfort. The fort has few shaded areas, so bring plenty of sunscreen and water with you.
Address: Candolim, Goa, India
From $ 30
Eden Gardens
Named after the gardens that lay beyond it, Eden Gardens is a cricket ground in Kolkata that’s home to the Bengal cricket team and the Kolkata Knight Riders. It’s also the venue for international cricket matches and is the largest cricket stadium in India in terms of seating capacity.
Established in 1864, Eden Gardens has since become one of the most iconic cricket stadiums in the world. Following renovations for the Cricket World Cup in 2011, the stadium seats over 90,000 spectators (a capacity actually lower than before the upgrade).
Within the grounds, the gardens themselves feature a picturesque lake with a tiny Burmese pagoda at its center. It’s a peaceful spot that’s well worth a stroll around on a visit to the stadium.
Practical Info
The stadium can be reached both via the Eden Gardens Railway Station and the Eden Gardens Circular stop. Entry to the stadium is usually limited to the south gate, but a north portal near Gate 12 is often open, too.
Address: Kolkata, West Bengal, India, India
From $ 49
Fort Aguada
Fort Aguada, the largest and best preserved of Goa’s Portuguese bastions, was constructed between 1609 and 1612 to protect Old Goa from Dutch enemies attacking via the Mandovi River. Set on a hill overlooking Aguada Bay and the Arabian Sea, the fort housed a freshwater spring that provided water to passing ships and gave the fort its name.
What remains of the sprawling fort remains largely intact, thanks in part to the fact that it was never taken by force during the four century rule of the Portuguese in Goa. Visitors can walk through the grounds to see the stone architecture, including the still-standing lighthouse. Thanks to its panoramic views, the fort is one of the most popular spots in the region to watch a sunset.
Practical Info
Fort Aguada is reachable via a 2.5-mile (4-kilometer), somewhat steep path starting and Sinquerim Beach. It’s also possible to take a taxi.
Address: Calangute Candolim Sinquerim Rd, Bardez, Goa, India 403515, India
From $ 35
Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib)
Harmandir Sahib, or Golden Temple, is the most sacred of Sikh gurdwaras. It’s located in the northern city of Amritsar in India’s Punjab state and is part of a large temple complex. The stunning golden gurdwara that stands today was rebuilt in the mid-18th century by Jassa Singh Ahluwalia.
Situated at the end of a long causeway, the Golden Temple is a unique blend of Islamic and Hindu architecture. Everybody, irrespective of caste and creed, are welcome at Harmandir Sahib, and there are four doors to the temple representing this openness of the Sikhs towards all people and religions.
Encircled by a marble walkway and surrounded by water that is believed to have healing properties, pilgrims come from all over the world to worship and bathe here. The upper levels of the temple are covered with gold, while in the inner sanctum, priests and musicians chant from the Guru Granth Sahib (the Sikh holy book) consistently throughout the day.
Practical Info
While everybody is welcome at the Golden Temple, certain rules and courtesies must be observed. Visitors must remove their shoes and wash their feet in a small pool of water before entering. All guests should also dress conservatively, covering their heads as a sign of respect (head scarves are available just before the temple entrance).
Address: Golden Temple Road, Amritsar, Punjab 143006, India
Hours: 6am - 2am daily
From $ 34
Fatehpur Sikri
Set 25 miles (40 km) west of Agra lies the deserted city of Fatehpur Sikri (City of Victory), built by Akbar in the late 16th century to serve as the new capital of the Mughal Empire. For 14 years from 1571 to 1585, the red sandstone-fortified city served as the dynasty’s seat of power, and at its peak, Englishman Ralph Fitch found it to be considerably larger and grander than even London.
This grandeur was short-lived, however, as in 1585, Akbar moved the capital to Lahore in his campaign against Afghan tribes. By 1619, the city had been completely abandoned and would remain so until archaeologists began exploring it in 1892.
Today, Fatehpur Sikri is a ghost town of beautiful sandstone arches, buildings and courtyards exhibiting Persian, Hindu and Jain design elements. Since Akbar was the only emperor to reside in the city for a significant amount of time, it’s considered one of the purist examples of the great emperor’s design aesthetic. Most visit the city on a day trip from Agra, but spending a night in nearby Fatehpur allows you to visit the city at dawn or dusk, when it is at its most peaceful and beautiful.
Practical Info
Located 25 miles from Agra, Fatehpur Sikri is easily accessible from the city. The Fatehpur Sikri Railway Station can be found less than a mile from the site. Entrance costs 485 Rs for foreigners, and the city is open daily.
Address: Fatehpur Sikri, India
Hours: Daily
Admission: 485 Rs for foreigners
From $ 11
Fort St George
The British East India Company constructed their first fortress in India in 1640 along a strip of sand on lease from the Raja, allowing them a foothold for expansion in India. The 20-foot (6-meter) thick outer walls surround a complex of white colonial structures, known historically as ‘White City,’ including St Mary’s, the oldest Anglican church in Asia.
Until recently, Fort St George housed the Tamil Nadu Secretariat & Legislative Assembly, and the Fort Museum remains open to the public and is now housed within an old East India Company exchange. The museum’s collection displays portraits, paintings, photographs, British governmental uniforms and East India Company porcelain, among other Raj relics.
Pay attention to the signage when visiting the compound, as several areas and buildings are closed to the public. If you want to avoid crowds at the security check, set aside a few hours on a Sunday morning for your visit.
Until recently, Fort St George housed the Tamil Nadu Secretariat & Legislative Assembly, and the Fort Museum remains open to the public and is now housed within an old East India Company exchange. The museum’s collection displays portraits, paintings, photographs, British governmental uniforms and East India Company porcelain, among other Raj relics.
Pay attention to the signage when visiting the compound, as several areas and buildings are closed to the public. If you want to avoid crowds at the security check, set aside a few hours on a Sunday morning for your visit.
Address: Chennai, India
Hours: Sat–Thurs: 10am - 5pm
Admission: Indians: Rs 5; Foreigners: Rs 100, Children (under 15 years): free
From $ 30
Elliot's Beach (Besant Nagar Beach)
Known alternately as Besant Nagar Beach, or “Bessie” for short, Elliot's Beach sits at the south end of the Marina Beach shore. A former expatriate enclave during Chennai’s colonial era, today, the beach attracts a crowd of twenty somethings, as well as families looking to avoid the crowds at the more popular Marina Beach.
While you won't find water sports along this stretch of sand, what you will find are beautiful ocean views and several architectural landmarks, including Ashtalakshmi Temple and Velankanni Church, as well as an array of snack stalls and restaurants serving authentic South Indian cuisine. Another interesting landmark, the Karl Schmidt Memorial, honors a Dutch sailor who died while saving a swimmer from drowning.
While you won't find water sports along this stretch of sand, what you will find are beautiful ocean views and several architectural landmarks, including Ashtalakshmi Temple and Velankanni Church, as well as an array of snack stalls and restaurants serving authentic South Indian cuisine. Another interesting landmark, the Karl Schmidt Memorial, honors a Dutch sailor who died while saving a swimmer from drowning.
Practial Info
Elliot’s Beach is located 37 miles (60 kilometers) south of Chennai.
Address: Chennai, India
From $ 57
Gandhi Ashram at Sabarmati
Those with an interest in Mahatma Gandhi won't want to miss a stop at his former ashram-turned-museum, where the Father of Modern India lived with his family for many years. The ashram is full of paintings, photos, and documents related to the Mahatma and houses a large library for those interested in deepening their research.
The Basics
One of the most popular attractions in Ahmedabad, and a stop on most Ahmedabad tours, the Gandhi Ashram at Sabarmati is full of Gandhi-related documents, photos, dioramas, and other memorabilia. He founded the ashram in 1917 and lived here for many years to follow, eventually using the ashram as a departing point for the Salt March and declaring that he wouldn't return until India gained its independence.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The ashram is a must-visit for anyone interested in Indian history.
- The ashram is free, but donations are appreciated.
- Most of the ashram is accessible, but wheelchair users may need some assistance in the outdoor areas.
How to Get There
Sabarmati Ashram is located on the western banks of the Sabarmati River, a 15-minute drive from the Ahmedabad City Center and the Kalupar Railway Station and about 20 minutes by car from the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. Most travelers arrive by taxi or autorickshaw, or as part of an organized tour.
When to Get There
The ashram is open every day from 8:30am to 6:30 pm, including public holidays. While it's generally not too crowded here, it's likely to be at its quietest first thing in the morning. Every year, on October 2nd (Gandhi's birthday), the ashram holds special events, with a non-denominational group prayer followed by lectures and cultural performances.
Ahimsa
Gandi is well known for preaching "ahimsa," roughly translated as "non-violence," a key tenet in many Eastern religions. There are different scholarly interpretations of what ahimsa might entail, but for Gandhi and his followers, it played out as passive resistance, an idea that inspired many other future activists, including Martin Luther King, Jr.
Address: Gandhi Smarak Sangrahalaya, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India
From $ 23
Gateway of India
One of Mumbai's most recognizable attractions, the triple-arched Gateway of India was built during the early 20th century in honor of the 1911 visit of King George V. Built of basalt and concrete, this monument was designed in the Indo-Saracenic style, which blends traditional Indian, Victorian, and Mughal architectural elements.
The Basics
Standing 25 meters (83 feet) high, the Gateway of India is among the city's most popular attractions, and many sightseeing tours start here. It has strong associations with British power, and became part of a ceremony marking the end of colonial rule in 1948, when soldiers from the Somerset Light Infantry crossed through the Gateway. Today visitors and locals alike flock here to stroll and take in the scenery, particularly around sunset.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The area around the Gateway of India is for pedestrians only, so wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to walk.
- Carry an umbrella to protect yourself from sun or rain.
- This stately arch is a must-visit for architecture and history buffs.
How to Get There
The Gateway of India is located in South Mumbai, just under 10 minutes’ drive south of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, the city's southernmost railway station. It's easily accessible by road or on foot if you're already hanging out in the Colaba area, and ferries to and from Elephanta Island stop there. The Mumbai Airport is about an hour away by car.
When to Get There
The Gateway of India is a year-round destination, though Mumbai is best avoided during July and August, when heavy monsoon downpours can make the city challenging to navigate. Though it’s a good spot to people-watch during the day, the Gateway of India is most interesting around dusk, when families come out to take an evening stroll, and to buy kulfi (an Indian type of ice cream) and other snacks from street vendors.
Wellington Pier
Right in front of the Gateway of India stands Wellington Pier (formerly known as Apollo Bunder). It was once one of the most important points of entry into Mumbai, particularly during the Victorian era, though these days it is rarely used except for boats heading out to Elephanta Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is known for its rock-hewn cave temples.
Address: Apollo Bunder Harbour, Colaba, India
From $ 9
Gali Paranthe Wali
Down a small, unsuspecting street in the Chandni Chowk area of Delhi, a throng of eateries selling the Indian fried bread classic, parantha, draws in locals and visitors in their droves. Gali Paranthe Wali is a bustling narrow lane lined with stalls and shops selling this flatbread street food favorite straight from the tawa (hotplate).
This is a place to surrender to the crowds as you indulge in a parantha smothered in ghee, choosing from an array of fillings ranging from the savory to the sweet, including paneer, mixed vegetables, and bananas – to name but a few. Wash it all down with a lassi before strolling along the shops, stopping off only to sample more classic Indian street foods along the way.
Practical Info
Most of the shops and stalls along Gali Paranthe Wali are open from 7am until 11pm. The nearest metro station is Chandni Chowk.
Address: New Delhi, India
From $ 29
Film City (Dadasaheb Phalke Chitranagri)
Spanning hundreds of acres, Film City (now officially known as Dadasaheb Phalke Chitranagri) has been a popular spot for Bollywood filmings since the state government built it back in the 1970s. The massive complex features everything from indoor studios to full-sized village recreations. More than 1000 sets can be used here at once.
The Basics
Because Film City houses working studios, public visitors can't just show up and walk around—rather, you must be on an organized tour. Tours vary a bit depending on what parts of Film City are in use at any given time, but generally include the opportunity to see some of the sets and learn more about the industry in general. Often, visitors can even catch a glimpse of a filming in action.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Film City is large and you may have to walk outside a lot, so wear sunscreen and comfortable shoes.
- Travelers aren’t allowed to visit on their own, so make sure to sign up for a tour in advance.
- Bottled water and food are available for purchase on-site.
- Photos and videos are restricted in some areas of the complex.
How to Get There
Film City is located in the suburb of Goregaon in the northwest of Mumbai, at the edge of the gargantuan Sanjay Gandhi National Park. Getting there from the touristy heart of the city involves quite a trek, so it’s best to take a taxi. Without traffic, it takes at least an hour to get there from the Gateway of India.
When to Get There
Much of Film City is outdoors, so weather plays a big role in when to go. Mumbai temperatures are consistently warm throughout the year, but December through March are the most ideal because they’re the least humid. July and August mark the peak of Mumbai’s notoriously torrential monsoon rains, and can make visiting Film City uncomfortable, if not impossible.
What is Bollywood?
A portmanteau of Bombay and Hollywood, Bollywood refers to the Hindi-language film industry, accounting for nearly half of the Indian film industry's annual revenue. Most Bollywood films are considerably longer than Hollywood films, many lasting upwards of three hours, usually with an intermission in between. Nearly all feature some choreographed songs, often (but not always) used to drive a larger narrative.
Address: Mumbai, India
From $ 49
Fontainhas
Situated on the banks of Ourem Creek in Panaji, Goa's capital city, the charming neighborhood of Fountainhas is dotted with charming old homes dating back to the mid 19th century. Fontainhas occupies land that was reclaimed in the 18th century and gets its name from the natural springs situated at the edge of the area.
The Basics
This charming area attracts travelers with its old-fashioned Portuguese-style architecture: beautiful old houses painted in pastel hues of yellow, green, blue, and pink with large balconies and red tiled roofs. It’s a fun place to wander and take photos, whether independently or as part of a group. Some heritage tours involve walks through the area, and many visitors end up stopping by the 1818 Chapel of St. Sebastian, a highlight of the neighborhood.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Wear comfortable shoes and sun protection, as this area is best explored on foot.
- Fontainhas is a must-visit for history buffs and anyone with an interest in old architecture.
- Don’t forget your camera; this is one of the most photogenic spots in the city.
How to Get There
Fontainhas is located just across the Rio de Ourem from the more modern commercial hub of Panaji, and it takes about 15 minutes to get there by foot from the Panjim Bus Stand. If you're visiting Panaji from North Goa, you'll need at least a half hour to get there by car from Calangute or about 45 minutes to an hour from Anjuna and Vagator.
When to Get There
Because Fontaihas is an outdoor destination, it’s wise to visit either early in the morning, when temperatures are at their most manageable and the light is still good for photography, or in the evening, when the area begins to cool down and locals come out to walk around. If you visit in February, don’t miss the Fontainhas Festival, a week-long event celebrating art and culture in the neighborhood.
The Chapel of Saint Sebastian
Most visitors make a point of stopping at the Chapel of St Sebastian, situated at the southern end of the area on a small square where locals traditionally celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of Livrament. Inside the chapel is a crucifix that used to hang inside of the Palace of the Inquisition in Old Goa, one featuring an eerie image of Christ with his eyes open.
Address: Panaji, Goa, India, India
From $ 18