Ever heard of Bharata? If not, you’re in good company. Let me enlighten you – Bharata is the ancient name for the land we now know as India. The story behind the name India is a fascinating journey in itself. The Greeks, in their attempt to pronounce the river Sindhu (the natural boundary of ancient India or Bharata at that time), mispronounced it, causing it to evolve into Indu. Over time, this evolved into Indus, and from there, the terms Hindu, India, and Indian were born.
Isn’t it curious how many words in our world are actually based on historical mispronunciations? These inaccuracies have become ingrained in our present reality, overshadowing the original truths that lie beneath.
Recently, I stumbled upon a captivating Indian tourism advertisement that stirred something within me. This ad, a nostalgic piece for me since I first saw it as a little boy, became the inspiration for writing this blog. There’s this powerful moment when the girl utters those two words, ‘Incredible India,’ and let me tell you, that part hits differently.
My aim is simple – to paint a vivid picture of this beautiful country and persuade you to explore its charms. It’s a place where history, culture, and natural beauty come together seamlessly, offering a getaway unlike any other.
As I sit down to pen this blog, I grapple with the question of how to structure it and what aspects of India to highlight. After a few minutes of contemplation, I decided that I didn’t want to paint just a rosy picture of India. Providing a balanced view will help you make an informed decision about whether India should be your next destination away from home.
Buckle up, travellers! We’re about to dive into the vibrant tapestry of India’s wonders, guaranteed to ignite your wanderlust.
Delicious Indian Cuisine
You might be surprised to learn that India boasts the highest population of pure vegetarians, accounting for about 40% of its people. For those who follow a vegetarian, vegan, or aspiring vegan lifestyle, Indian cuisine is a culinary treasure trove. India, like a sponge, seems to absorb the best from all corners of the world, creating something uniquely its own. The evolution of Indian food over the centuries has resulted in a cuisine that is more universal, and appealing to a wide range of palates.
From the iconic Pao Bhaji and Gol-Gappa to the comforting Naan and the diverse array of regional specialities like Momos, Daal, Dhosa, Idli, Ras Malai, and Pulao, the list of delectable dishes is extensive. Describing the taste of these dishes is a challenge, as the flavours are truly unique and best experienced firsthand. There are many non-vegetarian dishes, including the well-known Butter Chicken and Biryani. However, since I don’t eat meat, I won’t delve into them extensively as I am more knowledgeable about vegetarian dishes.
Image © Government of India
You can explore different dishes from various parts of the country, each bursting with distinct flavours. You may find it surprising that the same dish you eat in one part of India can taste totally different from another part, as there are no hard and set rules about cooking, and most people cook with their experience and style. So, if you get disappointed by a dish, that does not mean the dish is bad; you should try it again a few more times until you get used to the taste or find the place that made that dish as it is supposed to be made.
Here’s a tip for savouring the best of Indian cuisine: Opt for stalls or shops that offer freshly prepared, clean food with a bustling crowd of customers. If you prefer familiar surroundings, renowned restaurants like Haldirams or international chains like Domino’s or Pizza Hut are also reliable options when you’re unsure about what to eat.
Beautiful Nature
India stands as one of the most geographically diverse countries, offering a breathtaking panorama of landscapes. From lush green fields to expansive deserts, dense rainforests to towering mountains, meandering rivers to vast oceans, serene lakes to quaint ponds, majestic glaciers to inviting beaches—India is a nature enthusiast’s dream.
The unique climatic conditions prevailing across the country contribute to its distinct regions, each resembling different countries with varying temperatures—hot, warm, cool, cold, and humid. This diverse tapestry transforms India into a gifted haven of natural wonders.
Crafting your travel itinerary allows you to experience the myriad facets of India’s natural beauty.
Diverse Languages of India
Contrary to a common misconception, there is no language called ‘Indian.’ India, as you’ve likely gathered, is an immense and diverse nation, where linguistic landscapes shift significantly even within short distances. Dialects and accents undergo noticeable changes every few hundred kilometers, highlighting the rich linguistic tapestry that is India.
According to my research, India has over 300 languages, which include dialects and tribal tongues. It’s noteworthy that India holds the second position globally in terms of English speakers. However, it’s essential to recognize that not every individual you encounter may be entirely fluent or proficient in English. Nevertheless, basic interactions can be navigated effectively, allowing for meaningful communication across this linguistically vibrant nation.
Heartwarming Hospitality
An ancient saying in India encapsulates a profound cultural ethos— ‘Atithi Devo Bhava,’ translating to ‘Guest is like God.’ This age-old adage underscores the belief that guests should be treated with the same reverence and generosity as deities visiting one’s home. In practice, this sentiment has become ingrained in the Indian way of life, making the country renowned for its warm hospitality and its people, exceptional hosts.
When you venture into hotels, restaurants, or the homes of locals who extend an invitation, you’ll experience this welcoming spirit firsthand. Indian hospitality is marked by a genuine warmth and open-armed acceptance that leaves a lasting impression. The joyous and affable nature of the Indian people adds a unique dimension to your experience, making your time here truly unforgettable.
Robust Infrastructure
The Indian government has dedicated substantial efforts to enhance the country’s infrastructure, resulting in a well-established network of public and private facilities. A comprehensive system of highways seamlessly connects different states and regions, facilitating efficient travel across the nation. The extensive metro and railway networks further facilitate both intra-city and inter-state commuting.
India boasts numerous world-class airports, ensuring convenient air travel from one destination to another. Accommodation options are equally diverse, ranging from budget-friendly lodgings to luxurious 5 and 7-star hotels, such as:
Notably, India has embraced a digital payment revolution in recent years. Various apps such as Gpay, BHIM, Amazon Pay and PayTM have revolutionized financial transactions, offering a seamless and hassle-free way to pay and receive money. For a smooth experience during your time in India, consider downloading a digital payment app, adding funds to the wallet, and enjoying the convenience of cashless transactions.
Ancient and modern monuments
India, with its rich history spanning over 10,000 years, stands as a testament to resilience, having weathered attempts of destruction, centuries of enslavement, and the challenges of colonialism. Despite the unfortunate destruction of many ancient monuments and temples by invaders, some have withstood the test of time, standing tall and preserving the tales of darker eras.
Kedarnath Temple
Image © Government of India
Visiting these ancient sites is like embarking on a journey through time, offering a glimpse into the enduring spirit of this millennia-old civilization. Each monument echoes the stories of the past, providing travellers with a unique opportunity to learn and experience the cultural heritage of India.
Image © Government of India
For any traveller coming to India, these historic sites are more than just landmarks; they are windows into a bygone era, offering a profound connection to the roots of this ancient civilization. Exploring these timeless monuments is not merely a visit; it’s an immersion into the living history of Bharat.
- Ajanta and Ellora Caves
- Harappa and Mohenjo-daro
- Temples of Khajuraho
- Konark Sun Temple
- Meenakshi Amman Temple
- Brihadeshwara Temple, Thanjavur
- Statue of Unity
Vibrant Culture
India is a cultural extravaganza, boasting a dazzling array of colorful dresses, dances, songs and rich traditions. Throughout the year, it feels like the whole country is in a festive mood, with someone celebrating something. It’s a time for enjoyment, dance, family gatherings, delicious food, and creating happy memories.
If you’re someone who loves diving into the spirit of festivals, India is the place to be. The festive vibe is infectious, and what’s great is that these celebrations are not exclusive to any particular community. Anyone with good intentions is welcome to join in the festivities and have a good time.
Here are some festivals you wouldn’t want to miss, each offering a unique experience and a chance to get a taste of India’s diverse cultural celebrations.
Festival Calendar List
- Pongal – Celebrated in January
- Makar Sankranti (Lohri) – Celebrated in January
- Republic Day – Celebrated on January 26th
- Vasant Panchami – Celebrated in January or February
- Shivratri (Maha Shivaratri) – Celebrated in February or March
- Mahavir Jayanti – Celebrated in March or April (Jain festival)
- Holi – Celebrated in March
- Ugadi/Gudi Padwa – Celebrated in March or April
- Bihu – Celebrated in April
- Meenakshi Amman Temple Festival – Celebrated in April
- Rath Yatra – Celebrated in June or July
- Teyyam – Celebrated in July or August
- Independence Day – Celebrated on August 15th
- Ganesh Chaturthi – Celebrated in August or September
- Onam – Celebrated in August or September
- Navaratri/Durga Puja – Celebrated in September or October
- Dussehra (Vijayadashami) – Celebrated in October
- Diwali (Deepavali) – Celebrated in October or November
- Meenakshi Amman Temple Festival – Celebrated in November
- Bodhi Day (Buddha’s Enlightenment) – Celebrated in December
- Christmas – Celebrated on December 25th
- Mahamastakabhisheka: (Performed every 12 years. The next Mahamastakabhisheka will be held in 2030.)
Budget-Friendly Travel
As a developing country with a massive population, India’s economy and currency are not as strong. The Indian rupee, in particular, is not as robust compared to the dollar. However, this makes India an excellent destination for tourists seeking budget-friendly options. The cost of goods and services in India is notably lower compared to the USA or other Western countries. For anyone looking to explore India without breaking the bank, the affordability factor makes it an ideal choice for budget travel.
| Item | Estimated Cost in India ($ USD) | Estimated Cost in USA ( $ USD) |
| Accommodation: | 6 – 25 per night (Budget hotel) | 50 – 200 per night (Budget hotel) |
| Food: | 1 – 3 per meal (Local restaurant) | 10 – 20 per meal (Local restaurant) |
| Local Transportation: | 0.12 – 0.62 per trip (Bus/Train) | 2 – 5 per trip (Bus/Subway) |
| Attractions: | 1.25 – 6.25 per visit (Temple/Museum) | 10 – 50 per visit (Museum/Park) |
| Taxis (Uber): | 2.50 – 6.25 per trip (Within city) | 10 – 20 per mile |
| Domestic Flights: | 25 – 62.50 per leg (Short distance) | 50 – 150 per leg (Short distance) |
I have mentioned numerous incredible aspects of India that truly make it one of the best destinations for those seeking something different and unique while enjoying their time. Now, let me share a few things you should be aware of so that you won’t be caught off guard when you encounter them in India.
Pollution
With its expansive size and dense population, India grapples with pollution issues, particularly in major cities like Delhi or Jaipur. The diverse array of vehicles on the roads, running in a somewhat chaotic manner, contributes to the dusty and polluted atmosphere. The sight of dust and smoke from engines might even evoke a cinematic Western vibe.
Despite the Indian government’s efforts, exemplified by initiatives like ‘Clean India,’ challenges persist due to factors such as inadequate city planning, corruption, and the prevalence of too many vehicles on the roads. Unfortunately, some individuals, regardless of education and age, continue to litter, reflecting ingrained habits and a lack of strict consequences. It’s indeed disheartening.
On a positive note, there’s a glimmer of change in the mindset of people regarding littering and pollution. From my observations, it seems there’s a gradual shift in attitudes, and with ongoing initiatives, we can anticipate a significant and positive transformation in the coming years.
Societal Dynamics
India, with its vast population, encompasses a diverse socio-economic spectrum. While many belong to the middle class, there’s also a significant population in the very poor class. This economic disparity can manifest in activities like begging, pickpocketing, and petty crimes.
In certain areas, you may encounter individuals quoting prices for goods or services that are significantly inflated, sometimes reaching 10 or even 100 times the actual cost. It’s a practice that tourists should be cautious of.
It’s important to note that safety levels in different parts of the city can vary, largely influenced by the residents. Certain neighbourhoods may not be as secure, especially during the night. As a precaution, it’s advisable to avoid travelling to areas with less favourable reputations after dark.
Conclusion
Now that you’ve got a glimpse of various aspects of India, or as we call it, Bharat, you’re armed with information to decide whether a visit is on your horizon. If you’re someone with a passion for diverse cuisines and yearning to experience something truly extraordinary, I’d wholeheartedly recommend a trip to India. The vibrant culture, incredible sights, and the promise of encountering the unexpected await you.
India, despite its flaws, truly lives up to the ‘incredible’ tag. So, if you’re ready for a journey that guarantees the extraordinary, I’d say, come on board and immerse yourself in the incredible tapestry that defines India.
