As a region, North India is perhaps the most visited region by tourists travelling to India. Tours in North India offer a number of delights to travelers seeking to discover the history and culture of India. Place covering Delhi-Nainital-Agra-Lucknow-Varanasi-Mumbai
| PLACES COVERED | DELHI-NAINITAL-AGRA-LUCKNOW-VARANASI-MUMBAI | ||||
| DURATION OF TRIP | 9 NIGHTS/10 DAYS | ||||
| MINIMUM REQUIRED | 2 PAX | ||||
| ACCOMMODATION | BUDGET ACCOMMODATION | ||||
| DEPARTURE/RETURN LOCATION | PICKUP: DELHI/DROP: DELHI | ||||
| RETURN TIME | Approximately 6:30 PM/Depends on onward Journey | ||||
| WEAR | Comfortable athletic clothing, sunscreen. | ||||
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DAY - 01 : Arrive Delhi
On arrival at Delhi airport/Hotel/railway station, our representative will meet you to pick you up and transfer to your hotel. Rest of the day is at your leisure. Stay overnight at the hotel in Delhi.
DAY - 02 : Delhi Sightseeing
After breakfast start s sightseeing tour of Delhi visit:
Red Fort:-Delhi’s most famous monument, the Red Fort, stands as a powerful reminder of the Mughal emperors who ruled India. Its walls, which stretch for over two kilometers (1.2 miles), were built in 1638 to keep out invaders. However, they failed to stop the fort being captured by the Sikhs and the British.
(Note: Fort is closed on Every Monday)
Jamia Masjid:-Jama Masjid is another marvelous treasure of the Old City, and is the largest mosque in India. Its courtyard can hold an incredible 25,000 devotees. The mosque took 13 years to build, and was completed in 1650. A strenuous climb to the top of its southern tower will reward you with a stunning view across the rooftops of Delhi.
QutubMinar:-QutabMinar, the tallest brick minaret in the world, is an incredible example of early Indo–Islamic architecture. It was built in 1206, but the reason remains a mystery. Some believe that it was made to signify victory and the beginning of Muslim rule in India, while others say it was used to call the faithful to prayer.
Lotus Temple:-The Bahai Temple is commonly referred to as the Lotus Temple, as it’s shaped like a lotus flower. It’s particularly pretty at night, when it’s attractively lit up. Made out of white marble, the temple belongs to the Bahai Faith, which proclaims the unity of all people and religions.
(Note: Temple is closed on Every Monday)
Humayun’s Tomb:-If you think Humayun’s Tomb looks a bit like the TajMahal in Agra, that’s because it was the inspiration for the TajMahal’s creation. The tomb was built in 1570, and houses the body of the second Mughal emperor, Humayun.
India Gate:-The towering archway of India Gate at the center of New Delhi is a war memorial, built in memory of the Indian soldiers who lost their lives fighting for the British Army in World War I. At night it glows warmly under floodlights, and the gardens that line its boulevard are a popular place to enjoy a warm summer’s evening.
Laxmi Narayan Temple:-Built in 1938 by the Industrialist G.D. Birla, it is one of the major temples in Delhi and is located near Connought Place. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Laxmi and her consort Narayana. The temple was inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi on the stipulation that people of all castes shall be allowed to enter the temple.
Later drive back to hotel, Stay overnight at Hotel in Delhi.
Day 03:- Delhi – Nainital (310 km)
After breakfast check out from the hotel and proceed to Nainital. Upon arrival in Nainital check-in to the hotel and later enjoy boat ride on Naini Lake sightseeing and later can enjoy shopping at the Mall Road is also the best option.
Return to the hotel overnights stay:
Day 04:- Nainital Tour
After early breakfast start sightseeing in Nainital:-
Sattal:-Sattal is another excellent tourist and picnic spot with seven lakes, each in a different hue of green and blue. Bhimtal, 23 kilometres away, is a large lake with an island restaurant in the middle that’s accessible by boat. While visiting Sattal you should also visit Naukutchiatal, a placid lake with nine corners, which is located about 26 kilometres away.
Tiffin Top:-Set at an elevation of about 2,290 metres in the Ayarpatta Hills, Tiffin Top is a famous vantage point in the scenic hill station of Nainital. This picnic spot is fondly known as Dorothy’s Seat, in the loving memory of the eminent painter Kellet Dorothy. A cobblestoned walkway leads you up to Tiffin Top which can be a tiring trek, those travelling with their families opt for a horseback ride all the way up.
Snow View Point:-Situated at an altitude of 2,270 metres, Snow View Point offers spectacular views of the snow-clad Himalayas. Located about 3 km away from the main township of Nainital, this spot can be reached by an adventurous hilly trek or a comfortable taxi drive. Out of the different ways to reach this place, the most exciting one is by cable car, which commences at.
Mallital:-In order to provide a perfect view to visitors, a pair of huge binoculars is installed at this spot. A small temple is also present at this high-altitude point, along with shacks for souvenirs, tea and snacks.
Nanda Devi Temple:-Situated alongside the northern shore of the Naini Lake, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Sati and is counted amongst the 64 Shakti Peethas devoted to Her. According to mythological legends, the eye of Goddess Sati fell at this spot while Lord Shiva was carrying Her mortal remains to Mount Kailash.
Land’s End:-Land’s End is 2118 meters’ high cliff, situated 4 km towards the outskirts of Nainital. Appearing like the end point of the valley, this place offers a picturesque panorama of the low-lying plains and surrounding hills. Villages nestled at the bottom of the valley look spectacular from this vantage point. The most stunning vista that visitors can behold from this spot is that of the lake in Khurpatal, which looks like a shimmering gem hidden amidst soaring pines.
Mukteshwar Temple:-“Mukteshwar Temple, also known as Mukteshwar Dham, is an ancient Hindu shrine nestled in its namesake town in the district of Nainital. The hilly town of Mukteshwar attributes its name to this 350 years old temple, which is considered as a prominent place of worship in Kumaon. Perched atop a hillock, 2312 metres above the sea level, this temple offers a commanding vista of the entire picturesque valley.
Later return to hotel, overnight stay.
Day 05:- Nainital – Agra (440 km) – via NH9 & Taj Express Highway
After morning breakfast proceed to Agra. Upon arrival in Agra check-in to the hotel and overnight stay.
Day 06:- Agra – Lucknow (340 km)
After breakfast check-out from hotel in Agra and visit to Taj Mahal & Agra Fort:
TajMahal:-You cannot think of Agra without thinking of TajMahal. Or, you might not have thought of Agra were it not for the monument of love. TajMahal, the white marble beauty was constructed by Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife, MumtazMahal. The monument stands proof for the brilliance of Mughal architecture. Named as one of the wonders of the world, TajMahal stands the test of time. It has been declared as World Heritage Site in the year 1983.
Agra Fort :-You would regret if you miss Agra Fort during your visit to Agra. The 16th century monument is yet another proof of the architectural brilliance of Mughals. This is situated near the gardens of the world famous TajMahal. Called the Red Fort of Agra, you will be awe inspired by the powerful fortress. The fortress comprises many palaces namely, Jahangir Palace, KhasMahal and so on.
Itmad-ud-Daulah:-India’s first tomb to be made completely out of marble, Itmad-Ud-Daulah signals the beginning of new era in Mughal architecture. Until then, it was buildings of red sandstone. It was constructed during Jahangir’s period. The 21-meter high tomb was constructed in memory of MirzaGhiyas, who was the father-in-law of Jahangir.
Later after lunch proceed to Lucknow – the city of Nawabs. Upon arrival in Lucknow check-in to the hotel, overnight stay.
Day 07:- Lucknow City Tour
After breakfast start city sightseeing in Lucknow:
About Lucknow:Lucknow, a large city in northern India, is the capital of the state of Uttar Pradesh. Toward its center is Rumi Darwaza, a Mughal gateway. Nearby, the 18th-century Bara Imambara shrine has a huge arched hall. Upstairs, Bhool Bhulaiya is a maze of narrow tunnels with city views from its upper balconies. Close by, the grand Victorian Husainabad Clock Tower was built as a victory column in 1881.
Bada Imambara:The name refers to a shrine built by the Nawab Asaf-ud-daula in 1784, and is one of the largest buildings in Lucknow. The name ‘Bara Imambara’ is an Urdu word, wherein the word ‘Bara’ means big and ‘Imambara’ means the shrine complex. The complex includes the Asfi mosque and the Bhulbhulaiya or the Labyrinth. The Asfi mosque contains the tomb of Asaf-ud-daula, and the labyrinth is the only maze in India and supports the massive structure of the whole complex from the underground.
Chhota Imambara:Another congregation complex of the Shia Muslim sect, The Chota Imambara was built in 1838 by Nawab Muhammad Shah Ali. The complex also serves as the tomb for the Nawab who is buried there alongside his mother. Right outside the complex also lays the 4 storied Satkhanda, an unfinished watchtower or observatory which was supposed to have 7 stories.
British Residency:British Residency is regarded as a National Monument and is one of the major sites of the Revolt of 1857 and the historic battle known as the Seige of Lucknow. The site was the residence of the British Resident General which was stormed during the battle. The structure though in ruins after the battle has still been preserved till date with the bullet grazed walls and is surrounded by gardens which attract a great number of tourist crowd.
Hajratganj:Want to go on a shopping spree? Hazratganj is the answer for you. The traditional Indian bazaars of Hazratganj contains several shops that sell items ranging from jewelry, handicrafts, handloom, electronics, automobiles and contains various shopping malls, restaurants, movie theaters and a library.
Dr. Ambedkar Park:Spread across an area of 107 acres of land, the modern architectural monument is dedicated to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. The entire monument is built in red sandstone which was brought from the areas of Rajasthan. The park is located in Gomti Nagar which is one of the most posh localities of Lucknow.
Rumi Darwaza:Also known by the name, Turkish Gate, the Rumi Darwaza was built in 1784 by the Nawab Asaf-ud-daula. The monument is a massive gateway which is one of the best specimens of Awadhi Style architecture. The monument’s grandness in design is often compared to that of Rome and the Ottoman Empire and marks the entrance to the old city of Lucknow.
Chattar Manzil:The name Chattar Manzil literally means the Umbrella Palace and was the residence to the Nawabs of Awadh and their successors. The palace was constructed in the 1780’s and became one of the major strongholds of the revolutionaries during the 1857 uprising. The architectural style of the original building was a cross between Indo-European styles and was later restored by the British according to their preferences.
Later return to the hotel in evening and overnight stay.
Day 08:- Lucknow – Varanasi (320 km)
After early breakfast check-out from hotel and proceed to Varanasi. Upon Arrival in Varanasi check-in to the hotel and later proceed to Ghat in Varanasi to attend evening Aarti Ceremony at:
AssiGhat:-AssiGhat, the Ghat located at the confluence of Assi River and the holy Ganges, is the southernmost Ghat in Kashi. The Ghat is renowned for a spectacular and large Shiva Lingam placed under a Peepal Tree. This is a favorite spot for Hindu devotees to offer their prayers to Lord Shiva after taking holy dip in the river. This religiously important place got its reference in many puranas, including MatsyaPurana, KurmaPurana, Agni Purana and Padma Purana. Legendary stories describe this Ghat as the place where GoodessDurga thrown out her sword after killing the Asura demons Shumbha- Nishumbha.
DashaswamedhGhat:-DashaswamedhGhat, a much acclaimed religious spot, is a very favorite among the Hindu devotees and is considered as the main Ghat. It is believed that Lord Brahma performed his victorious Dasa_Ashwamedha (ten-horses) sacrifice in this spot. Legends claim that a similar kind of ten horse sacrifice was done here in the second century by Bhara Shiva Naga rulers. The Ghat was renovated by BajiraoPesava I in 1740 AD and later by the Queen of Indore, the princess AhilyabaiHolkar in 1774.
Later return to the hotel, overnight stay.
Day 09:- Varanasi Tour with Excursion of Sarnath
After early breakfast proceed to sightseeing in Varanasi visits:
KashiVishwanathTemple :-KashiVishwanath Temple is one of the most famous Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva and is located in Benaras, the Holiest Place of Hindus (and center of earth in Hindu Cosmology) where at least once in life a Hindu is expected to do pilgrimage and if possible pour the remains (ashes) of cremated ancestors here on the River Ganges. The temple stands on the western bank of the holy river Ganges, and is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, the holiest of Shiva temples.
Sarnath Buddhist Temple:-There are a number of twentieth century Buddhist temples in Sarnath. Many of these Buddhist temples at Sarnath are built and maintained by monks from Tibet, China and Japan but the main Buddhist temple is the MulagandhakutiVihar. The main shrine (vihara), called the Mulagandakuti, is said to be located at the place where Buddha used to stay during his visits to Sarnath. There is a carved sandstone railing inside the temple.
Sarnath Museum:-Sarnath has yielded a rich collection of sculptures, artifacts and edifices comprising numerous Buddha and Bodhisattva images and other ancient remains. To house all the findings and excavations at Sarnath, the Archaeological Survey of India established a site Museum at Sarnath. Finest specimens of Buddhist art and other important remains have been housed at the museum.
Evening free for shopping at local markets, later back to the hotel, overnight stay.
Day 10:- Varanasi Departure for Mumbai
After breakfast day is free for personal activities. Later transfer to airport in Varanasi to catch the flight for Mumbai your onward destination.
PRICES BASED ON BUDGET ACCOMMODATION FOR UPGRADE PLEASE EMAIL
Services are included in the price:-
- A safe and comfortable air-conditioned Car with driver, all inclusive. (Fuel for Bus, road and state taxes, toll fees, parking fees, & Driver and driver’s food and lodging).
- The Car will be with you from your arrival to departure with as many stops to sight see as you want.
- A Driver with excellent skills and record, a good knowledge of the area you are visiting and sufficient English to communicate.
- Transfers and land transportation according to itinerary.
- Accommodation Double or Twin rooms with Bed and Breakfast
- Sightseeing Tours in All Cities
- Varanasi / Mumbai By Flight
PRICES BASED ON BUDGET ACCOMMODATION FOR UPGRADE PLEASE EMAIL
Services are not included in the prices:-
- Tips, laundry, telephone bills, luggage handling and Beverages.
- Meals unless specified
- Entrances tickets to Monuments if apply
VISA INFORMATION
OVERVIEW
All foreign nationals entering India are required to possess a valid international travel document in the form of a national passport with a valid visa obtained from an Indian Mission or Post abroad.
All Individual visa seekers are requested to apply for the Indian Visa through Online application link , in order to make an application for getting the Indian visa.
The duly signed physical copy of the application form completed in all respect and submitted successfully, is to be submitted at the concerned Indian Visa Application Center (IVAC) or directly to Indian Mission/ Post, on the scheduled date of interview along with the requisite supporting documents. The instructions for filling the form and scheduling the appointment can be seen at Instructions for Online Visa Application. Important technical information for filling online Indian visa application can be referred at Technical Instructions.
The applicants are also requested to visit website of the Indian Mission concerned for detailed information about Indian visa.
ONLINE VISA APPLICATION
All Individual visa seekers are requested to apply for the Indian Visa through online application link. Or can apply by typing the URL: http://indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/ in the address bar of web browser, in order to make an application for getting the Indian visa. In either case, no hand written application form will be accepted by any of the Indian Mission/ Post, where-ever online Visa facility has been implemented. The application form completed in all respect and submitted succesfully, is to be submitted at the concerned Indian Visa Application Center (IVAC) or directly to Indian Mission/ Post in absence of IVAC, on the scheduled date of interview along with the requisite supporting documents. The instructions for filling the form and scheduling the appointment can be refered at Instructions for Online Visa Application. Important technical information for filling online Indian visa application can be referred at Technical Instructions. If you have already applied online for Indian Visa online and want to know the status of your application,
VISA CATEGORIES
Government of India issues the following visas: Business Visa, Conference Visa, Diplomatic Visa, Employment Visa, Emergency Visa, Entry Visa, Journalist Visa, Medical Visa, Missionaries Visa, Permit to re-enter within 2 months, Research Visa, Student Visa, Tourist Visa, Transit Visa. Please follow the link for details on Visa Provision and supporting documents
VISA PROCESSING TIME
Upon receipt of the Visa Application through Indian Visa Application Center or directly, the Indian Mission/ Post requires a minimum of three working days to process the case and issue a visa depending upon the nationality and excluding special cases.
PHOTO REQUIREMENTS
Online India Visa Application allows the Applicant to upload a digital photograph of self to complete the online visa application.
Guidelines/procedure to upload a digital photograph
The digital photograph to be uploaded along with the Visa application should meet the following requirements:
Format – JPEG
Size
Minimum 10 KB
Maximum 300 KB
The height and width of the Photo must be equal.
Photo should present Full face, front view, eyes open.
Center head within frame and present full head from top of hair to bottom of chin.
Background should be plain light colored or white background.
No shadows on the face or on the background.
Without borders.
Make sure that photo presents full head from top of hair to bottom of chin. Head should measure 1 inch to 1-3/8 inches (25mm to 35mm). Make sure eye height is between 1-1/8 inches to 1-3.
FEE FOR INDIAN VISA
The visa fee depends upon the type of applied for and duration of visa. Visa fee is divided into various types depending upon the case viz; Basic fee, special fee, processing fee by out-sourcing agency. During the online registration process, at the end of the process the basic fee shall be displayed. However, this fee shall be indicative only and final fee shall be charged while submitting the application at the respective counters Fee once received are non-refundable even if the visa application is withdrawn, the visa is not granted, or if visa issued is of shorter duration of period than applied for or otherwise issued or returned at a time or on terms and conditions that may vary from those sought by the applicant. For further information on this, please check with local embassy office or Indian Visa Application center office or websites for information on applicable fee and payment methods.
VISA PROVISION
| Sl. No. | Type of Visa | Period for which granted | Entry – Single (S), Multiple (M), Double | Documents required with application | Extendable in India |
| 1 | Tourist | 180 days | M | – | No |
| 2 | Transit | 15 days | S/ Double | Return/ onward journey ticket | No |
| 3 | Business | 5 years | M | Documents to prove bonafide purpose (Company’s letter etc.) | Yes |
| 4 | Employment | 1 year/ period of contract | M | Proof of employment (appointment document), terms and conditions | Yes |
| 5 | Student | Period of course/ 5 years | M | Proof of admission in Indian Institution | Yes |
| 6 | Foreigners of Indian Origin | 5 years | M | Proof of being of Indian Origin | Yes |
INSTRUCTIONS
- Online application form:
This application form is meant for those foreigners who are applying for visa from outside India.
Each online application form is meant for one person only. Separate application has to be filed for each applicant.
Furnish information exactly in the manner asked for in the forms, especially the names, address and date of birth.
Applicants are required to verify the application details before submitting the online application. They have an option to save the online application form, in case it is not to be submitted.
Once the online application form is submitted by the applicant, then further modifications are not allowed. Hence applicants are requested to check and validate the details before submitting the online application form.
Applicants are requested to keep the Application Id (generated automatically after the submission of online form) for further communications.
- Appointment Scheduling:
Applicant can schedule the appointment as per his/ her convenience with the concerned Indian Mission.
Each applicant to schedule a separate appointment with the Indian Mission
- Process for filling up online application form:
Applicant shall access the Visa Application system online through the following link: http://indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/.
Applicant visits the above mentioned web link and selects the Indian Mission from where he intends to apply for the Visa from the tab “Select Mission”.
Applicant fills the application on-line as per the forms standardized by the Ministry.
After filling the form and submitting it, the system shall automatically generate a Application Id. Applicants are requested to keep this Application Id for further communications with the concerned Indian Mission.
System will automatically ask the Applicant for the following confirmation: “Select ‘Yes’ if the applicant want to seek appointment and make payment online or ‘No’ if the applicant just want to print the submitted application form.”
If the applicant response is “No”, then it is requested by the applicant to take the print out of the submitted online application form and approach the concerned Indian Mission for submission of the online form along with supporting documents.
If the response from applicant is “yes” then the system automatically takes the link to perform the following:
Selection of Date and Time of appointment at the concerned Indian Mission
Calculation of Visa fee, service charge, VAT etc. as applicable according to the Visa type
E Payment using service provider’s payment system
In case the facility of Appointment Scheduling and e-Payment is not available for the concerned Indian mission, then applicant has to take the printout of the online application form and visit the concerned Indian Mission to submit the same along with supporting documents and make the payment.
Indian Culture: Traditions and Customs of India
India’s culture is among the world,s oldest; civilization in India began about 4,500 years ago. Many sources describe it as “Sa Prathama Sanskrati Vishvavara” — the first and the supreme culture in the world, according to the All World Gayatri Pariwar (AWGP) organization.
Western societies did not always see the culture of India very favorably, according to Christina De Rossi, an anthropologist at Barnet and Southgate College in London. Early anthropologists once considered culture as an evolutionary process, and ”every aspect of human development was seen as driven by evolution,” she told Live Science. “In this view, societies outside of Europe or North America, or societies that did not follow the European or Western way of life, were considered primitive and culturally inferior. Essentially this included all the colonized countries and people, such as African countries, India, and the Far East.”.
However, Indians made significant advances in architecture (Taj Mahal), mathematics (the invention of zero) and medicine (Ayurveda). Today, India is a very diverse country, with more than 1.2 billion people, according to the CIA World Factbook, making it the second most populous nation after China. Different regions have their own distinct cultures. Language, religion, food and the arts are just some of the various aspects of Indian culture. Here is a brief overview of the culture of India.
Language
India has 28 states and seven territories, according to the World Health Organization. There is no official language in India, according to a Gujarat High Court ruling in 2010. Many people living in India also write in Devanagari script. In fact, it is a misconception that the majority of people in India speak Hindi. Though many people speak Hindi in India, 59 percent of India residents speak something other than Hindi, according to The Times of India. Bengali, Telugu, Marathi, Tamil and Urdu are some other languages spoken in the country.
Religion
India is identified as the birthplace of Hinduism and Buddhism, the third and fourth largest religions. About 84 percent of the population identifies as Hindu, according to the “Handbook of Research on Development and Religion” Edited by Matthew Clarke (Edward Elgar Publishing, 2013). There are many variations of Hinduism, and four predominant sects — Shaiva, Vaishnava, Shakteya and Smarta.
About 13 percent of Indians are Muslim, making it one of the largest Islamic nations in the world. Christians and Sikhs make up a small percentage of the population, and there are even fewer Buddhists and Jains, according to the “Handbook.”
Food
When the Moghul Empire invaded during the sixteenth century, they left a significant mark on the Indian cuisine, according to Texas A&M University. Indian cuisine is also influenced by many other countries. It is known for its large assortment of dishes and its liberal use of herbs and spices. Cooking styles vary from region to region.
Wheat, Basmati rice and pulses with chana (Bengal gram) are important staples of the Indian diet. The food is rich with curries and spices, including ginger, coriander, cardamom, turmeric, dried hot peppers, and cinnamon, among others. Chutneys — thick condiments and spreads made from assorted fruits and vegetables such as tamarind and tomatoes and mint, cilantro and other herbs — are used generously in Indian cooking.
Many Hindus are vegetarians, but lamb and chicken are common in main dishes for non-vegetarians. The Guardian reports that between 20 percent and 40 percent of India’s population is vegetarian.
Much of Indian food is eaten with fingers or bread used as utensils. There is a wide array of breads served with meals, including naan, a leavened, oven-baked flatbread, and bhatoora, a fried, fluffy flatbread common in North India and eaten with chickpea curry.
Architecture and art
The most well-known example of Indian architecture is the Taj Mahal, built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan to honor his third wife, Mumtaz Mahal. It combines elements from Islamic, Persian, Ottoman Turkish and Indian architectural styles. India also has many ancient temples.
India is well known for its film industry, which is often referred to as Bollywood. The country’s movie history began in 1896 when the Lumière brothers demonstrated the art of cinema in Mumbai, according to the Golden Globes. Today, the films are known for their elaborate singing and dancing.
Indian dance, music and theater traditions span back more than 2,000 years, according to Nilima Bhadbhade, author of “Contract Law in India” (Kluwer Law International, 2010). The major classical dance traditions — Bharata Natyam, Kathak, Odissi, Manipuri, Kuchipudi, Mohiniattam and Kathakali — draw on themes from mythology and literature and have rigid presentation rules.
Clothing
Indian clothing is closely identified with the colorful silk saris worn by many of the country’s women. The traditional clothing for men is the dhoti, an unstitched piece of cloth that is tied around the waist and legs. Men also wear a kurta, a loose shirt that is worn about knee-length. For special occasions, men wear a sherwani, which is a long coat that is buttoned up to the collar and down to the knees. The Nehru jacket is a shorter version of a sherwani.
Customs and celebrations
The country celebrates Republic Day (Jan. 26), Independence Day (Aug. 15) and Mahatma Gandhi’s Birthday (Oct. 2). Diwali is the largest and most important holiday to India, according to National Geographic. It is a five-day festival known as the festival of lights because of the lights lit during the celebration to symbolize the inner light that protects them from spiritual darkness. Holi, the festival of colors, also called the festival of love, is popular in the spring.
Weather
India is situated in Southern Asia, bordering the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal, between Burma and Pakistan.
The climate in India varies from a tropical monsoon climate in the south to a temperate climate in the north. If you are thinking of Visiting Delhi (the capital of India) then best to visit it in October, November, February and March. That’s when the nights are cool and the days are filled with a little sunshine. May, June and July are very hot with temperatures over 45 degrees (113 Fahrenheit). It is a dry heat and is sometimes accompanied by dusty desert winds. Most of the rain falls between July and September but they are not the tropical rains you’ll experience in India’s coastal cities.
