India attractions

The Sanghi Temple is an intricately carved white marble Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva, Parvati, and Venkateswara. Built in 1991 in the Chola-Chalukya architectural style, it blends architectural features from two ancient South Indian empires. It's situated on the top of Paramananda Giri Hill, about 22 miles (35 kilometers) southeast of Hyderabad.

The Kaveri River (Kaveri Nadi) measures around 475 miles (765 kilometers) in length and passes through Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, all the while supporting irrigation systems for large parts of Tamil Nadu. It's the third-largest river in South India, and river-access rights has long been a point of contention among certain South Indian states.

On the outskirts of Chandigarh, Thunder Zone amusement and water park features a mix of carnival-style rides and water park attractions spread across 11 acres (4.45 hectares). Highlights include small roller coasters, bumper cars, and a mix of waterslides and pools, plus a smattering of special attractions for toddlers.

Designed by Henry Irwin, the same architect behind the nearby Gaiety Theatre and the massive Mysore Palace, Rasthrapati Niwas—more frequently referred to by its former name, Viceregal Lodge—was once the summer home of British viceroys. Today, this Jacobethan building houses the Indian Institute of Advanced Study (IIAS).

One of India’s major seaports, Kochi’s harbor is up there with the world’s most scenic waterways, providing one of the few all-weather safe harbors on India’s west coast. In the center of the harbor, between Fort Cochin’s promontory and the mainland, is man-made Wellington Island, the area’s main seaport and transport terminal.

These Hindu and Jain temples comprise the remains of what was once an even larger, more elaborate temple complex—which seems impossible once you see the Group of Monuments up close. Recognized far and wide for their intricate (and physically exaggerated) erotic carvings, the temples, which are built in Nagara-style architecture, are one of the great symbols of India’s spiritual, cultural, and architectural heritage.

The central focus of the town of Nainital, Naini Lake is a popular place for boating and for taking in the views. According to legend, the lake sits where the left eye of Sati, Shiva’s consort, fell to the earth, and this gives the town its name—"naina" is Sanskrit for "eye" and "tal" means "lake."

Overlooking Jait Sagar Lake in the northern reaches of Bundi, the Sukh Mahal is an elegant 18th-century palace that was commissioned as a summer home for the royal family. It’s characterized by beautiful Rajput architectural features, including domes known as chhatris and arched windows, plus lovely views across the water.

On the outskirts of Hyderabad, Shilparamam is a recreation of a traditional crafts village that was created to preserve and showcase arts and handicrafts from across India. Here, you can browse its many stalls, see maker demonstrations, and watch live music and dance performances. Of course, shopping is the major draw for most visitors; you can buy everything from pottery to clothing, paintings, and embroidery.

One of Bikaner's most recognizable landmarks, Kote Gate is considered the gateway to the Old City and acts as the de facto border between the old and new parts of town. While many visitors simply pass through, it's worth taking your time to check out the architecture of this massive entryway.

On India’s westernmost point, Narayan Sarovar is a small lake, village, and Hindu pilgrimage site (especially the Koteshwar Temple) that’s spiritually significant because it’s where a lake meets the ocean. But along with its spiritual connections, Narayan Sarovar is a wildlife sanctuary that’s home to wild asses, desert foxes, wolves, and rare plants, which can be seen on nature walks.

Officially called Jawaharlal Nehru Road, Chowringhee cuts through the heart of Kolkata. Running alongside the Maidan park, this wide avenue is a must for visitors keen to experience the soul of the city through its jumble of colonial-era buildings, shops, markets, and sidewalk stalls.

Situated near the Raj Ghat memorial to Mahatma Gandhi, Shantivan is a memorial to Jawaharlal Nehru, the first prime minister of India, and marks the spot where the politician was cremated. Shantivan is surrounded by lush, landscaped gardens, and the whole area is a lovely place to get away from the crowds and noise of urban Delhi.

Located on the Chhotanagpur Plateau on the western end of West Bengal, the Ajodhya Hill and Forest Reserve Area is a natural area popular among hikers, climbers, and eco-tourism enthusiasts. Highlights include scenic viewpoints, waterfalls, and several lakes and dams.

This bridge over the Sabarmati River was officially renamed Swami Vivekananda Bridge in 1997, yet locals still refer to it by its original name, Ellis Bridge. It’s undergone renovation several times since its British colonial-era construction, and remains a symbol of Ahmedabad’s transformation over the years, linking the old city with newer developments on the west side of the river.

Formerly known as the Museum of Tribal Art and Artefacts, the Odisha State Tribal Museum focuses on the 62 tribal communities that live in Odisha. It’s a great place to spend some time learning about the region’s cultures through a range of exhibits that showcase everything from textiles to traditional crafts.