India is perhaps the most diverse country that you will ever find. It is a vibrant country where both the traditional and modern world meet. The country boasts of a rich heritage that is a result of centuries of different cultures and religions that have left a mark.
Undoubtedly, there are several things that you can do in India. You have the chance to experience a range of sacred sites and spiritual encounters. Nature lovers get the opportunity to enjoy the sun-washed beaches, exciting wildlife, and the lush national parks.
To help you make the most of your time in India, we have listed some of the top tourist sites that you never knew existed.
The Holy City of Varanasi
The Holy City Varanasi is a pilgrimage center for Hindus. It is associated with the Ganges River, which is one of the most important religious symbols. This city dates back to the 8th century BC and is one of the oldest cities in the world that is still inhabited.
There are many reasons why you should visit this city. It offers you the chance to explore the Old Quarter, which is close to the Ganges. Here you will find the Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
You can visit the Banaras Hindu University that is popular for its massive library with over one million books, and the Bharat Kala Bhavan museum that features fine collections of sculptures, paintings, and palm-leaf manuscripts.
Jaisalmer: The Golden City
The city derives its name from the yellow sandstone that is used on most of the buildings. It is a city that offers visitors a view of ancient architecture that rises from the sand dunes of the Thar Desert.
The city is the home to the massive Jaisalmer Fort that can be seen high above the rest of the town. The fort boasts of palaces, old houses, temples, and 99 bastions, as well as the massive gates that lead to its central courtyard where the Maharaja’s Palace is found. The palace has sections that are open to the public, including parts that are well decorated with tiles from China and Italy. It also features several Jain temples that date back to the 12th-16th centuries.
Goa
Goa is known to be the best go-to destination for those in search of a great beach vacation. Goa has a beautiful western coastline that overlooks the Arabian Sea.
With more than 60 miles of coastline, Goa has some of the best beaches in the world. If you want to have a quiet time, head to the Agonda Beach, and if you wish to visit a more crowded place, head to the Calangute Beach.
While still here, you can visit the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary. This is the home to thick vegetation and plenty of animals, including elephants, deer, leopards, monkeys, and black panthers and over 200 bird species.
Or maybe you would be interested in visiting the Divar Island that can be accessed from Old Goa using a ferry. Here you have the chance to visit the Piedade, which is home to the Church of Our Lady of Compassion.