Things to Do in India

India is one of the world’s most fascinating countries. As such, there are countless things to do in India for every type of traveler. Ancient temples stand beside modern cities, wildlife thrives in vast national parks, and traditions continue to shape daily routines in vibrant, unforgettable ways. 

When you explore India, you’ll find that every region feels like a world of its own. From quaint towns to the historic port city of Mumbai and other coastal hideaways, India invites you into a rich blend of culture, festivals, food, greenery, and human warmth.

This guide brings together the best things to do in India, including essential attractions, cultural insights, and wildlife encounters, so you can make the most of your India travel experience.

Best Things to Do to Explore India 

Visit the Ajanta Caves

Location: Aurangabad District, Maharashtra

Museums and historic sites across India showcase artifacts that date back more than a thousand years. The Ajanta Caves, in particular, are considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

When you walk into the carved chambers, you’ll see detailed murals, intricate pillars, and ancient Buddhist art that still holds its color despite being nearly two millennia old. The caves were hand-carved from the cliffside and used as prayer halls and monasteries in the past. If you enjoy exploring places that feel genuinely ancient, Ajanta will leave a strong impression.

Bring comfortable shoes because you’ll be doing a fair bit of marching and walking between caves.

Explore Amazing Wildlife in the Bandipur National Park in South India

Location: Chamarajanagar District, Karnataka

Bandipur is one of South India’s best national parks for wildlife safaris and a perfect choice if you want to explore India’s forest landscape up close. You’ll drive through stretches of teak trees, open grassland, and small waterholes where elephants often gather.

The park is known for its tiger population, though you might also see spotted deer, bison, monkeys, and a variety of birds. Safaris usually happen early in the morning or late in the afternoon, so plan your day around those times. 

Bandipur is also part of India’s Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, which means the scenery is beautiful even if you don’t spot big animals. 

Appreciate the Amber Fort in Jaipur

Location: Rajasthan

Amber Fort’s design is a mix of Hindu and Mughal styles, with large courtyards, ornate gates, mirrored halls (like the Sheesh Mahal), and long ramparts that overlook Maota Lake. 

Inside, you’ll find rooms decorated with royal artwork. Outside, you get views of the Aravalli Hills stretching into the distance. Audio guides and local guides help you understand the stories behind each section, and it’s one of the most photogenic spots in all of Rajasthan, especially when the sun rises and sets. 

Conquer the Ancient Stepwells of Adalaj

Location: Adalaj, Gujarat

The Adalaj Stepwell was built in the 15th century. It’s a five-story-deep structure carved into the earth with detailed columns, balconies, and geometric patterns.

As you walk down the steps, you’ll notice how the temperature cools dramatically — a design feature that helped India’s locals gather water and escape the heat. It’s a great stop if you’re traveling in Gujarat and want to add something unusual to your itinerary. The carvings are beautiful, and it’s easy to spend 30–45 minutes taking photos and exploring the different levels. 

Feel Regal at the City Palace

Location: Rajasthan

City Palace combines museums, courtyards, gardens, and royal apartments that bring history to life. It’s still home to the former royal family, and many parts are beautifully preserved.

Inside the museums, you’ll find royal costumes, ornate weapons, paintings, and textiles. The architecture is equally impressive, featuring colorful doorways, marble archways, and traditional Rajasthani decor. 

The grounds are spacious, so you can wander around for a couple of hours without rushing. It’s also located right in the heart of Jaipur, making it easy to add to your day’s sightseeing.

Swim at the Dudhsagar Falls

Location: Goa–Karnataka Border

Dudhsagar Falls is one of India’s tallest waterfalls. The water crashes down the cliff in multiple tiers, and during monsoon season, the falls become incredibly powerful. 

You can reach Dudhsagar by trekking along the railway or by taking a forest jeep through rugged terrain — both options offer great views. Once you arrive, the mist from the falls cools the air, and the sound of rushing water creates a dramatic atmosphere. 

It’s a bit of an adventure to get here, but that’s part of the charm. Many travelers combine a trip to the falls with time on Goa’s beaches along the Arabian Sea. 

Explore the Ancient Temples in Ellora 

Location: Aurangabad District, Maharashtra

Ellora is famous because three of India’s major religions — Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism — all built temples here side by side, similar to the ancient temple landscapes you’ll find in Tamil Nadu. 

The complex includes 34 caves carved over several centuries, with the star attraction being the enormous Hindu temple of the Kailasa, a massive monolithic structure carved out of a single mountain.

Walking through Ellora feels like exploring an open-air museum of ancient India. The scale of the carvings is impressive, and many of them still show detailed work. It’s easy to spend half a day here exploring everything. 

Hike the Great Wall of India

Location: Kumbhalgarh, Rajasthan

The Great Wall of India surrounds the massive Kumbhalgarh Fort and stretches over 35 kilometers. You obviously can’t hike the entire wall, but even doing a short section gives you incredible views over the Aravalli Hills stretching toward the edge of the Thar Desert.

The wall is wide enough for horses to walk across, and the fort itself has several palaces and old structures worth exploring. If you enjoy history and outdoor activities, this is a great combination of both. Sunrise and sunset visits are especially beautiful.

Take a Day Trip to Hampi

Location: Vijayanagara District, Karnataka

Hampi is a special place that’s a favorite among backpackers and photographers.

It’s scattered with ruins from the Vijayanagara Empire — ancient markets, elephant stables, palaces, and carved pillars. Huge boulders line the landscape, creating a unique, almost surreal setting.

You can explore Hampi on foot, by bicycle, or by renting a scooter. Make sure you catch at least one sunset from a hilltop. 

Capture Photos at the Hawa Mahal

Location: Rajasthan

Hawa Mahal is one of the most recognizable landmarks with its five-story facade full of small windows and latticework. It was designed for royal women in India to observe street life without being seen. 

Today, it’s a quick but worthwhile stop where you can take great photos from the street and also climb to the top for a view over Jaipur’s old city. If you’re already exploring the bazaars nearby, it’s an easy and iconic addition to your itinerary. 

Brave Humayun’s Tomb

Location: Capital

Humayun’s Tomb is a peaceful escape surrounded by symmetrical gardens, water channels, and pathways perfect for a relaxing stroll. 

The building is a clear predecessor to the Taj Mahal, so if you’re interested in Mughal design, this is a must-see. It’s also a great spot for photos because of the beautiful arches and red sandstone structure. 

Tell Time at Jantar Mantar

Location: Jaipur, Rajasthan

Jantar Mantar looks like a giant playground made of stone. These massive structures were designed to measure time, track celestial events, and predict seasons long before modern equipment existed in India. It’s an interesting stop if you enjoy science, astronomy, or quirky historical attractions. 

Experience Natural Wonders at Kanha Tiger Reserve 

Location: Mandla and Balaghat Districts, Madhya Pradesh

Kanha is one of India’s best-maintained tiger reserves and a great place to try spotting Bengal tigers in the wild. The scenery is a mix of wide meadows, lush forests, and small ponds where animals gather. 

Most visitors come hoping to spot a tiger, but even if you don’t, the park is full of barasingha deer, birds, leopards, and other wildlife. Safari rides are comfortable and guided by professionals who help you understand the animals and their habitats. 

If you’re exploring western India later in your trip, Gir National Park is the only place in the world where you can see Asiatic lions in their natural habitat. Many Indian parks are surrounded by small villages, giving travelers a chance to experience local hospitality before heading into wildlife zones. 

Take a Break at the Lodi Gardens

Location: Capital City

Lodi Gardens is where many Indians go to relax, walk, and enjoy the outdoors. The park is dotted with tombs, ruins, and manicured lawns. It’s a good place for any person to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing. It’s safe, clean, and a refreshing change from the city’s traffic and noise. 

Worship at the Lotus Temple 

Location: Capital City

The Lotus Temple is one of the most serene places in India. The architecture is simple but striking, shaped like a blooming lotus flower. Inside, the large central hall is quiet and peaceful, making it a great spot to rest, meditate, or just take a break from the city. It welcomes people of all backgrounds and beliefs. 

Ride a Train to Nek Chand Saini’s Rock Garden

Location: Chandigarh, Punjab

The Rock Garden is one of India’s most creative public spaces. It’s filled with sculptures, walkways, waterfalls, and quirky designs made entirely from recycled materials. The layout is like a maze, and exploring it feels fun and unexpected. It’s a great stop if you want something different from monuments. 

Stay the Night at Periyar National Park

Location: Thekkady, Kerala

Periyar offers a chance to experience Kerala’s forest environment in a more immersive way. The park has a large lake surrounded by dense greenery where you can go boating or join guided treks. 

Staying overnight allows you to hear the forest at its quietest moments and increases your chances of spotting India’s wildlife like elephants, monkeys, and — occasionally — tigers. 

It’s worth timing your trip to coincide with major festivals, as they add energy, color, and cultural immersion to any itinerary. 

Visit the Golden Temple

Location: Amritsar, Punjab

The Golden Temple is one of the most inspiring places you can visit in India. The shimmering golden temple sits peacefully in the center of a sacred lake, and the atmosphere is incredibly welcoming.

Make sure you visit the langar, the community kitchen that serves free meals to thousands of local families every day — it’s one of the most meaningful cultural experiences in India.

Explore the Mountains of Himachal Pradesh 

Location: Himachal Pradesh (Manali, Shimla, Dharamshala)

Himachal Pradesh is perfect if you’re looking for cooler weather, mountain scenery, and more nature than you’ll find in India’s major cities. Manali offers adventure sports, Dharamshala gives you Tibetan culture and monasteries, and Shimla is full of colonial history and viewpoints. 

In Dharamshala and Palampur, you can also visit hillside tea plantations that offer beautiful views and peaceful walking paths. The higher Himalayan regions, especially around Spiti and Ladakh, offer dedicated winter expeditions and even provide a chance to spot elusive snow leopards.

Wander Through Old Delhi’s Markets and Food Lanes

Location: Old Delhi

If you love street food, history, and lively markets, Old Delhi is a must. Chandni Chowk is filled with spice shops, sweets, local eateries, and mosques — all packed into a maze of busy lanes. Hiring a local guide makes exploring easier and helps you find the best food and hidden spots you might miss on your own. 

Sightsee Through the Landmarks of New Delhi

Location: Capital City

The new city of Delhi offers a completely different vibe from the old. You’ll find wide roads, green parks, museums, and impressive landmarks like India Gate, Qutub Minar, and the President’s House. It’s a comfortable area to base yourself in, and the metro makes sightseeing very convenient.

Join a Guided India Tour for Easy Travel

Location: Across India

If you want a stress-free way to experience the country of India, joining a guided tour is a great option. Golden Triangle tours (Delhi–Agra–Jaipur) are the most popular, offering a mix of palaces, monuments, and markets. You can also join Rajasthan desert tours, Kerala backwater tours, or Himachal mountain tours, depending on your interests.

These tours often include a stop in Agra, where the Taj Mahal sits beside the Yamuna River, a world-famous symbol of love built by Emperor Shah Jahan for his beloved wife.

Cruise Along the Ghats of Varanasi in North India

Location: Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 

A sunrise boat ride on the Ganges River is one of the most memorable and exciting activities you can have in northern India. As the early light hits the water, the ghats come alive with priests performing rituals, devotees bathing, and locals starting their day along the riverbanks.

The atmosphere feels spiritual, historic, and deeply connected to Indian life. It’s an excellent way to understand Varanasi’s culture, take great photos, get a panoramic view of the scenery, and see a slower, more traditional side of India before the city becomes busy. 

Enjoy a Lonely Planet–Style Backpacker Circuit

Location: Various (Hampi, Rishikesh, Pushkar, Goa, Varanasi) 

Hampi’s ruins, Rishikesh’s yoga scene, Pushkar’s holy lake, Goa’s beach life, and Varanasi’s riverside rituals give you a mix of adventure, spirituality, and culture. 

To explore beyond the usual routes, you can also head east to discover other places, such as Odisha’s temple sites and coastal destinations, before continuing your backpacker trail. These places are social, budget-friendly, and full of other tourists — great for solo travel or meeting new friends on the beaches and roads.

Frequently Asked Questions on India Travel