Bucket list India; Beyond the Golden Triangle

India    09.01.2025    TransIndus

Beyond the Golden Triangle, the Taj Mahal, and bustling towns, India's cities and villages are a tapestry of hidden wonders waiting to be unveiled. Here, we explore our 'Top Ten' most easily accessed wonders to liven up your bucket list.

From the intricate details of Rajasthan's Awe-inspiring architecture to the unbelievable engineering of the 2000-year-old Cave Temples of Ellora or the artistic prowess of the murals of Ajanta. From the immersive spirituality of the Golden Temple at the heart of Amritsar to the pulse-racing thrill of tracking a tiger in the jungles of Central India. We highlight the sights that will inspire you the most.

Which will you include in your next tour of India?

The Sacred City of Amritsar & The Golden Temple

The Golden Temple is a serene and spiritual haven at the heart of Amritsar, the sacred city of the once illustrious Sikh Empire. Connecting directly to several British, US and Canadian cities, a visit to this charming corner of India is easily included. While here, don't forget to witness the patriotic zeal and humour of the Changing of Guard Ceremony at the Wagah Border with Pakistan. Stroll through bustling bazaars and indulge in a street food tour featuring Amritsar’s famous kulchas. This vibrant city blends history, culture, and culinary delights as a must-do experience.

Discover Amritsar

The Blue City of Jodhpur, Rajasthan

Welcome to Jodhpur, Rajasthan’s magical Blue City! Famous for its indigo-hued houses, once painted to signify Brahmin homes, it now creates an iconic skyline. Explore the majestic Mehrangarh Fort, which looms over the city, wander the vibrant blue lanes, and shop for treasures in bustling bazaars. Staying in heritage hotels that blend royal elegance and charm with modern comforts will enhance your experience.

Explore Jodhpur

Himalayan Foothills, Shimla & Dharamsala

Discover the charm of the Himalayan foothills around Shimla, the summer capital of the British Raj and Dharamsala, the home of the Dalai lama in exile. Take the slow and steady Hill Train to Shimla as you wind through the countryside, uncover history along Shimla’s bustling Mall Road, explore the grand Viceregal Lodge and trek to Cloud’s End for stunning views. In Dharamsala, visit the serene monastery home of the Dalai Lama and the lush tea gardens dominating the countryside for a perfect mix of history, nature, and spiritual bliss!

Discover Shimla  

The Cave Temples of Ellora and Ajanta

Nowhere else in India does the distant past feel closer to the surface than the rock-cut complexes of Ellora and Ajanta, a day’s journey northeast of Mumbai. Carved from the mountains of the Deccan Plateau between the 2nd century BC and the 11th century AD, these temples, monasteries, and shrines contain a wealth of exquisite sculpture and painting, miraculously preserved in their remote settings—and guaranteed to induce goosebumps.

In their day, the sites were located on busy trade and pilgrimage routes between China in the East, Central Asia in the West, and Europe in the West. They were conduits for the migration of Buddhism into China.

Awe inspiring Ajanta and Ellora 

India's Extraordinary National Parks

Beyond its ancient monuments, impressive history, forts, palaces, and colonial history, India offers a vast wealth of natural habitats and the possibility of spotting scores of extraordinary wildlife—the Tiger, India's national animal, stands prime among all.

Thanks to its varied geography, India ranks among the world's Top 10 most biodiverse countries, supporting a variety of rich ecosystems. Nearly 500 mammals, over 1,300 birds, and countless species of amphibians, reptiles, and insects thrive here. The country's 106 National Parks cover almost every part of India.

Here is a selection of our favourite parks, along with details of when to go and what you are likely to spot. 

India's Extraordinary National Parks

Fort Kochi & Kerala's backwaters

Welcome to historic Fort Kochi, a charming coastal gem once at the heart of India’s spice and tea trade. Stay in elegant heritage hotels along the waterfront, where you can sip a gin and tonic on your verandah, admiring Chinese fishing nets and passing ships. Indulge in Kerala’s finest coastal cuisine at top restaurants. Venture inland to Kerala’s lush mountains, home to tea, coffee, and spice plantations, and explore the famous Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Spot wild elephants on serene boat safaris, peaceful rafting trips, or forest treks. Fort Kochi and Kerala promise an unforgettable blend of history, nature, and adventure!

Wander through Kochi (Cochin)

The Sandlewood City of Mysore

Mysore, the cultural capital of Karnataka, enchants visitors with its royal heritage and vibrant charm. The majestic Mysore Palace, illuminated nightly, showcases Indo-Saracenic brilliance, while the historic Chamundi Hill offers sweeping city views. Explore the legacy of Tipu Sultan, the "Tiger of Mysore," at Srirangapatna, his historic stronghold. Stroll through Devaraja Market, brimming with colours, fragrances, and Mysore’s famed silk sarees. Mysore is rich in history, palaces, and bustling bazaars and promises unforgettable grandeur.

Visit Mysore here

Hyderabad, The City of Nizama's

One could spend a week here and be left wanting more!  Steeped in history and culture, Hyderabad blends the legacy of the Nizams with modern vibrancy. Begin your journey at the iconic Char Minar, a 1591 masterpiece in the city's heart. Explore the nearby Laad Bazaar, famous for bangles and pearls. Discover the opulence of Falaknuma Palace, which was restored to showcase Indo-Saracenic grandeur. Don’t miss the Salar Jung Museum, Chowmahalla Palace, and Koti Residency for a glimpse into Hyderabad’s rich past. The 11th-century hilltop Fort of Golconda, a marvel of engineering with its hydraulic water supply system and acoustic halls and the intricately carved Quatb Shai at tombs that Persian and Indian architecture at the city's western edge are not to be missed.

Discover Hyderabad

Magnificent Madurai

The Meenakshi-Sundareswarar Temple in Madurai is a breathtaking marvel of South India. Its 46-meter-tall, vibrant gopurams, adorned with intricate stucco figures, rise from the ground. Within, a labyrinth of carved halls, shrines, and courtyards is alive with rituals. Elephants bless devotees, priests conduct ceremonies, and wedding parties offer tributes to the Goddess. With roots over 2,000 years old, this historic temple and Madurai’s bustling bazaars make it an unforgettable destination. Although now a sprawling modern city, this atmospheric town's lively covered bazaar area and traditional Udupi restaurants remain one of Southern India’s undisputed highlights. 

Explore Madurai

The Glorious Beaches of India

Most travellers touring India look forward to a well-earned break on a palm-backed beach at some point, and there are plenty to choose from. Beautiful resorts and boutique hotels have appeared in even the most remote corners of coastal India, providing comfortable bases to enjoy the surf and tropical weather.

Explore the Glorious beaches of India