Why Visit India?
Why visit India? was a question many of my close friends asked when I first mentioned my plan to explore this vast country. The next most common question was, ‘is it safe?’ I answered that question in my post, Is it Safe to Travel as a Solo Female in India? so I’m not going to write more on that topic here.
In this post I’m going to share my personal reasons for wanting to explore this vast and exciting country; maybe you’ll find some of them resonate with you. Just maybe, you’ll find yourself inspired to ask yourself why visit India? and begin to explore it for yourself!
As I write this I am ridiculously excited. Tomorrow I catch my plane to India. It’s a trip I’ve been dreaming about for years. I’m drawn to the history, the palaces and the temples along with the vibrancy that India seems to give off. There seems to be an energy about the place which I’m buzzing to engage with.
Why visit India? – Yoga & Meditation
I’m super drawn to the yoga and meditation that the country is famous for. I’m looking to spend some time improving my own practice with regular drop-in sessions in each city I visit. So I’ll be able to fill you in on my experiences and suggest places for you too.
I’m so excited about exploring a culture that is so different to my own. So far on my solo travels I’ve been to a variety of European cities. India is my first step into the wider world – I feel like the training wheels are coming off!
A Place Like No Other
I once read that India unfolds as the pages of a novel, sharing one delight after another. As both a reader and a writer, I love that image. My mind also has this image of India as the heady scent of incense lingering in the air, as the echo of temple bells reverberating through bustling markets, and the warm welcome of a rich cultural tapestry. I’m about to discover if this is true!
I’m expecting it to be an overwhelming experience, an assault on all the senses, but one that is going to be so rewarding. I think it will change me. I’ll come out of it a braver and wiser me than the me that enters. I’m ready to embrace the vibrant chaos, dive into soul-stirring landscapes, and discover why India is the ultimate destination for the spirited solo female traveler over 40.
Why Visit India? – Rajasthan
I begin my India tour in the heart of India, in the enchanting region of Rajasthan, where the sun paints the landscape in hues of gold, and history breathes through the majestic forts and palaces. I’ll be following an extended circuit around what is commonly known as the ‘Golden Triangle.’ This is a realm where time seems to have paused to capture the grandeur of an era gone by, and where every corner is a testament to the undying spirit of royalty and romance.
Itinerary
I’m going to be visiting: the blue city – Jodphur, the pink city – Jaipur, the desert city – Jaisalmer, the lake city – Udaipur, plus some extra exciting stops on the way. There will be exploring of forts and palaces, hearing stories of history and romance, and riding of camels.
Havelis
I’ll be exploring Mandawa and Jaisalmer for the Havelis I’ve read so much about – architectural jewels that whisper tales of opulence and heritage. These ornate mansions, adorned with intricate carvings and latticework, stand as silent witnesses to a bygone era of grandeur. Each step through the elaborately designed gateways leads into a world where each courtyard tells a story, which I’m excited to hear.
Pushkar
I’ll also be stopping by Pushkar to hopefully get a little respite from the craziness, embracing the combination of spiritual essence and soaking up the hippy vibes. I’m planning to get up for sunrise, at least once, to experience the haunting sound of temple bells mingling with the rhythmic chants of the monks. Whether exploring the markets, walking the ghats or hanging out at a vegan coffee shop Puskar looks to be an immersive experience where spirituality, culture, and tranquility intertwine seamlessly.
Ranthambore
There will also be a couple of days safari-ing in Ranthambore to – if I’m lucky – spot a tiger. Ranthambore has over 80 tigers, and, according to their website, visitors have a 70% chance of spotting a tiger on their safaris. India has the largest population of tigers in the world, so I’m very hopeful I may get to see one of these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
Taj Mahal
What can I say about the Taj Mahal that hasn’t already been said? No visit to India would be complete without experiencing the grandeur of the Taj Mahal. My tour finishes off with the beauty of the Taj Mahal. The ivory-white splendor of the Taj Mahal stands as a testament to the enduring power of love and architectural brilliance. I love that this highlight is at the end of my tour. I can’t wait to see the inside, where cameras are not allowed and to wander the gardens.
Why Visit India? – The South
The second half of my exploration of India begins in Goa and from there my plans are pretty loose. I plan to spend a week or 2 enjoying the beach life in Goa. I’ll probably head to South Goa as it has a reputation for being the more chilled, quieter area, which appeals to me. I’m not much of a party-all-night kind of girl these days 🙂 I think I might need the time to recoup my energy.
Kerala
I have an idea of places in the south I’d love to visit: the houseboats of Kerala are a must. I can’t wait to spend the day cruising around the serene backwaters and relaxing. After the crazy busyness of North India, I feel like Kerala will soothe the country girl in me, I’m looking forward to embracing the tranquility of nature and water.
Temple Touring
I’d love to explore the intricate Dravidian architecture of Meenakshi Temple in Madurai and the majestic Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur, along with the Achyutaraya and The Virupaksha Temple (dedicated to Lord Shiva) in Hampi. These temples are not just relics but living monuments that echo the chants of centuries past and are testament to a rich historical legacy.
Pondicherry
In the town of Pondicherry the architecture whispers of a colonial past. The French influence is palpable in the cobblestone streets of the White Town, adorned with pastel-hued colonial mansions and charming bougainvillea-draped cafes. The fusion of French elegance and Indian warmth makes Pondicherry a haven for artists, yogis, and seekers alike and makes it sound like it is a place I could see myself hanging out at for a few days.
Munnar Tea Plantations
Many visitors flock to the tea plantations of Munnar as a respite from the intense heat. But there is a long history in the sprawling tea plantations that have defined the region’s landscape for centuries. Green leaves blanket the slopes like a vibrant green quilt. You can take tours to learn about the process and enjoy a cuppa in the cafe after. There are numerous hikes to follow and guides available if you are not confident enough to go off wandering alone.
Why Visit India? – Ayuverda & Yoga
But there’s also the option of an Ayuverda retreat, yoga to experience – either in the South or via a journey to the North of India in Rishikesh. I’m yet to decide which option I’m going to go for. It’s much cooler in the north of India and by the end of March I might be craving that breeze. We’ll see…
Why visit India? -Beaches
Or there is also the option of simply relaxing on the southern beaches… what’s not to love about the idea of a beach hut, with a balcony directly onto the sand. Imagine sipping your morning coffee with your toes buried in the sand or relishing a sunset with the horizon as your private vista, then sleeping to the hush, hush, hush of gentle, rolling waves. Sounds pretty idyllic to me…
I will have 3 weeks to explore the delights of this area of India. Follow me on Instagram or FB to keep up-to-date with my plans as they unfold.
Are you Feeling Inspired?
If you’ve ever contemplated a journey that intertwines vibrant colors, ancient traditions, and a kaleidoscope of flavors, then look no further – India provides it all. As I figure out my route, I invite you to join me on a quest to unravel the mysteries and marvels that make India a magnetic force for the solo female traveler seeking more than just a vacation – a transformative experience that transcends boundaries and stereotypes. Let’s go visit India together!
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