A Travel Guide to India for People in Their 30's and 40's
Where to Travel in India in Your 30s & 40s
India is among the most magnificent countries on the planet, with snow-capped mountains, vast deserts, sparkling cities, and exquisite beaches! It should definitely be on your bucket list for travelling in your 30’s and 40’s. With this India travel guide, you’ll have a clearer idea of how to plan your trip and prepare for it.
Getting Ready for Your Trip
The climate in India varies from place to place. However, it’s usually quite hot. Pack loose, airy attire that protects your legs and arms, particularly if you plan on visiting temples or other sacred sites. Keep half of your baggage empty if you're even mildly interested in shopping. After all, travel for people in their 30’s and 40’s is more about bringing home some of the cultures you experience. After just one trip to a bazaar, you'll wish you'd brought another suitcase along to fill with exotic fabrics, spices, clothing, and decorative items.
Make sure to apply sunscreen and wear a brimmed hat when sightseeing, and bring only your phone, wallet, camera, passport, and a bottle of water. Even common items such as food, cosmetics, and cigarettes are deemed contraband at several tourist attractions, and you'll have to discard those if you carry them. You'll also have to wait a long time in line to have your bag inspected and searched if you bring one. In India, security is handled very thoroughly.
What Is the Best Way to Travel within the Country?
Traveling by train can be charming, but expect a tumultuous scenario at the train station. During rush hour, transport in cities can be extremely congested, and getting from one side of the city to the other might take hours. Domestic flights inside India are simple and affordable, and they are the greatest option if you’re traveling in your 30’s and 40’s and if you want to see as many places as possible.
Which Cities Should You Visit on Your First Time?
The majority of people who travel to India desire to explore much more than just the city where they arrive. Yes, Delhi and Mumbai are excellent starting points to explore the country, but there is so much more to see. Travel for people in their 30’s and 40’s is about experiencing everything this diverse and wonderful country has to offer!
If you feel lost, need not worry. Here is a detailed guide to some of the best places in India for first-timers to help you get started!
1. Agra
Whenever you consult any India travel guide, you’ll notice that Agra is usually at the top of the list. The famous Taj Mahal is located there, incorporating the beauty and grandeur of Islamic design and architecture. Two kilometers away, you can explore Agra’s Red Fort. It is also one of the best places in India to experience a light and sound show. Fatehpur Sikri and Jahangir Mahal are other popular sightseeing attractions.
More than sightseeing, the region is known for its Mughlai cuisine and delicious street foods, such as parathas, gol-gappas, jalebi, chaat, petha, and chicken kebab wraps. Kinari Bazaar, Sadar Bazaar, TDI Mall, and Raja Ki Mandi are excellent places to shop. Here you can find everything from branded and unbranded clothes to household items, books, and jewelry.
2. New Delhi
In New Delhi, the greatest tourist attraction according to most India-travel guide articles is the Red Fort. A sound and light show is held every evening, giving an insight into the fort’s history and the country’s rich culture. Humayun’s Tomb is another magnificent structure, along with the India Gate, which is easily recognizable in the city.
New Delhi has numerous museums, from zoological to rail ones that you can explore. Delhi is beyond a doubt one of the best places in India for shopping, and it is the perfect place to find almost anything. Although there are increasingly more affluent and glamorous locations to visit, traditional marketplaces and bazaars remain the most authentic and dramatic sites. Delhi serves practically everything, from affordable lunches to elaborate feasts in costly eateries. Chicken korma, seekh kababs, and mutton burra are among the meals to sample, while snacks such as samosas and jalebi are found almost everywhere.
3. Mumbai
The magnificent Gateway of India, which stands 26 meters tall and overlooks the Arabian Sea, is a must-see when in Mumbai. Other popular tourist attractions include Elephanta Island and the CTS Railway Station at night.
The Colaba Causeway Market is one of the most popular shopping destinations in Mumbai. Souvenirs such as jewelry, apparel, bracelets, and caps can all be found here. In terms of food, Mumbai is undoubtedly one of the best places in India. From Indian street food to Indo-Chinese dishes, and Dosas, to Faluudas, and even seekh kebabs, everything is a delight.
4. Jaipur
The historic royal city of Jaipur is a fascinating and enchanting blend of rich history, lively culture, wonderful art, stunning palaces, and delectable cuisine. Due to the obvious rosy tint of many of its building structures, Jaipur is recognized globally as The Pink City. It is considered that Jaipur's pink hue stems from an effect employed to simulate the color of red sandstone.
Hawa Mahal, Jal Mahal, Amber Fort, and the City Palace are popular attractions. A journey to Johri Bazaar is a must for visitors looking for some of Jaipur's finer attractions. The beautiful Rajasthani jewelry and ornaments that may be purchased from most merchants that work the colorful kiosks throughout the convoluted alleys of this busy and packed retail bazaar are extremely well-known.
There are many delicacies to sample, but you should start with chai before going on to kachori, aloo tikki, mishri mawa, papdi chaat, and delectable Rajasthani staples such as Daal, Aloo Pyaz Sabzi, Gatte Ki Sabzi, and Bejad Ki Roti.
5. Aurangabad
Aurangabad, later dubbed the "Tourism Capital of Maharashtra," is one of the best places in India for first-timers. From historical UNESCO Heritage Sites to shops teeming with magnificent silk products and exquisite hand-woven clothing, this city gives travelers a rich tapestry of sights, aromas, and sensations.
Notable tourist attractions are the Ellora Caves and the Bibi-Ka-Maqbara, (a mausoleum for Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb’s wife). Bhoj is a renowned restaurant in the city, specializing in thalis. These are round platters that contain various dishes, from curries, lentil soup, rice, and vegetables, to Indian bread and desserts.
6. Jodhpur
Jodhpur, or the “Blue City,” is a major tourist destination with numerous forts, palaces, and temples nestled amid the harsh Thar Desert setting. The gigantic Mehrangarh Fort, one of India's largest fortresses, was constructed in the 15th century to protect the citizens of Jodhpur's old city.
You can also spend some time in Jodhpur's historic center, which is known for its eight gates of the city, a beautiful antique clock tower, and a plethora of bazaars offering everything from veggies to spices, sweets, and handicrafts. Zip-lining with Mehrangarh Fort as a backdrop is a once-in-a-lifetime chance for adventurers. Six zip lines make up the circuit, which takes around 90 minutes to finish.
7. Mysore
Mysore's enormous cityscape is a joy to explore, with its incredible variety of magnificent colonialist architecture, regal Indian palaces, and verdant, well-kept gardens. Though its major tourist attraction is the Mysore Palace, tourists also love to visit the silk and sandalwood bazaars. You can even watch one of the magnificent light displays presented every Sunday as well as during holidays when the palace is lighted by over 90,000 lights.
In terms of food, the Mysore Masala Dosa is a popular breakfast dish, while Mysore Pak is one of the most popular sweets in India. Mysore paintings are recognized for their subtle colors, art, and features depicting Hindu gods and goddesses. The artworks depict Mysore's traditional traditions, including music, dancing, sculpting, and character emotions.
We hope that this extensive guide to some of the best places to visit in India for first-timers was worth your while, whether you are travelling in your 30’s and 40’s or touring the country in your 20's!
Happy traveling!