India is a culturally rich country with a fascinating history. With a population of over one billion people, it is one of the most populous countries in the world and has been at the forefront of civilization for thousands of years.

India's diverse and unique culture is a major attraction for people from all over the world. Visitors can experience an exciting blend of ancient traditions and vibrant modernity. India offers unforgettable experiences in art, music, dance, architecture, cuisine, clothing, and religion.

The history of India is deeply rooted and complex. The country has been ruled by various empires and dynasties throughout the centuries, resulting in a fascinating past. The history of India is deeply rooted and complex. The country has been ruled by various empires and dynasties throughout the centuries, resulting in a fascinating past. The Indus Valley Civilisation, one of the world's oldest civilisations, thrived in India around 2500 BC. Later, great empires such as the Maurya, Gupta, and Mughal emerged, significantly contributing to India's cultural and social development.

Religion is an integral part of Indian culture. Hinduism, the oldest religion in India, holds a special place in the hearts and minds of Indians. Other religions, such as Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, Jainism, and Buddhism, also have a large following in the country. Each religion has unique traditions, rites, and festivals, which are celebrated passionately.

India is also famous for its beautiful artistic and architectural heritage. Iconic monuments such as the Taj Mahal, the Hindu temples of Varanasi, the stone temples of Khajuraho, and the ancient city of Hampi are all testament to the beauty and craftsmanship of Indian architecture.

If you want to explore rich culture and history, India is the perfect destination. Each landmark has a unique and exciting history waiting to be discovered!

The Taj Mahal, located in Agra, India, is one of the most famous monuments in the world and is considered a masterpiece of Mughal architecture. Built between 1632 and 1653 by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as a sign of his undying love for his deceased wife, Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj Mahal has become a symbol of love and beauty.

The Taj Mahal is situated on the right bank of the Yamuna River in a sprawling Mughal garden covering nearly 17 hectares in the Agra District of Uttar Pradesh. The history of the Taj Mahal is very touching. After the death of Mumtaz Mahal while giving birth to her fourth child, Shah Jahan decided to build an incomparable mausoleum in her memory.

The Taj Mahal's construction began in 1632 and was completed in 1648. The complex consists of a magnificent building, including a mosque, a guest house, the main gate to the south, and the outer courtyard. The construction continued with the addition of a portico, which was completed in 1653.

This monument combines Persian, Islamic, and Indian architectural styles. Built using polished white marble, the Taj Mahal emits a stunning glow when exposed to sunlight. The main building is a dome-shaped mausoleum with four towers at each corner. Inside the tomb is an actual tomb with marble cladding, decorated with intricate carvings and precious intarsia.

Visitors can enjoy a fantastic experience. After passing through the entrance gate, they can explore the well-maintained garden before reaching the main building. Inside, they will witness the extraordinary beauty and serenity of the tombs and the delicate carvings. Moreover, the Taj Mahal exudes a magical charm at sunrise and sunset with the dramatic colour changes in its white marble.

However, as one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, the Taj Mahal is often crowded, and long queues can occur. For a more serene experience, it is recommended to visit this monument early in the morning or before sunset.

The Red Fort, or Lal Qila, is a majestic landmark in Delhi, India. One of the most significant landmarks in India, it holds a deep history intertwined with Mughal rule in the country.

The construction of the Red Fort began in 1639 when the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan moved the capital of his empire from Agra to Delhi. This fort was built as both a magnificent defensive stronghold and a residence for the royal family. Additionally, the Red Fort served as an important administrative and political centre.

The architecture and design of the Red Fort reflect the craftsmanship and architectural splendour of the Mughals. The fort is constructed of red sandstone, with walls reaching almost 33 metres in height. The Red Fort complex includes various structures such as palaces, public halls, mosques, gardens, and pavilions.

One of the most prominent parts of the fort is the Diwan-i-Aam, the magnificent public hall where the Mughal Emperors met with their subjects. The Diwan-i-Khas, the special courtroom for the Emperor, is also an attraction with its ceiling adorned with ornate gold.

A visit to the Red Fort allows one to immerse themselves in the history and beauty of the Mughal empire. Visitors can explore the various buildings and enjoy stunning views from the top of the fort walls. Additionally, the fort complex hosts music and dance performances that showcase Indian culture.

The Red Fort is not only an impressive historical building but also represents the might and majesty of the Mughals in India.

Qutub Minar is an impressive stone tower and one of the most famous monuments in India. It has a rich history and deep cultural significance, and is one of the finest architectural remnants from the time of the Delhi Sultanate.

It dates back to the 12th century when the Muslim Emperor Qutbuddin Aibak commenced the construction of this tower as a symbol of Islamic power and supremacy.

Although Qutbuddin Aibak started the project, his successors, including Iltutmish and Firoz Shah Tughlaq, completed the tower. The Qutub Minar also serves as a tower marking the call to prayer and is part of the nearby Quwwat-ul-Islam mosque complex.

The design of the Qutub Minar itself displays Indian and Islamic architectural influences. The tower is about 73 metres high and consists of five floors, which are marked by tapered piles that narrow towards the top.

Each floor features intricate ornaments and carvings with various geometric patterns and Arabic calligraphy. The tower's first floor is made of red stone, and the subsequent floors are made of contrasting red and white sandstone, giving the tower a unique visual beauty.

Visitors to the Qutub Minar can explore the architectural beauty and history of this complex. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower via narrow steps to enjoy panoramic views of Delhi.

You can also explore the complex and appreciate the stunningly carved details on the tower and surrounding buildings. There is also a museum in the complex that displays artefacts and information about the history of the Qutub Minar and the Delhi Sultanate period.

The Himalayas are an iconic and majestic mountain range that stretches across several countries in Asia, including India, Nepal, Bhutan, Tibet, and Pakistan. Known as the "Roof of the World," the Himalayas offer stunning natural beauty.

This landmark in India comprises the highest peaks in the world, including the towering Mount Everest. These mountains also feature deep valleys, fast-flowing rivers, and dense forests.

The scenery in the Himalayas is spectacular, with stunning panoramic views of snowy mountains, flowing glaciers, and wild nature rich in flora and fauna.

The Himalayan region offers a variety of challenging and breathtaking trekking routes. Hiking to peaks such as the Everest Base Camp Trek in Nepal or the Markha Valley Trek in India provides an opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the mountains.

Apart from trekking, tourists can explore remote villages that still maintain the traditions and lifestyle of the mountain people. Interaction with ethnic tribes such as the Sherpas, Gurung, or Ladakhi will provide valuable cultural insights. Visitors can also enjoy the hospitality of the locals, try delicious local cuisine, and stay in simple but warm inns or homestays.

The Sundarbans is a mangrove forest in the Ganges River delta region, spanning India and Bangladesh. One of the most unique ecosystems in the world, the Sundarbans is known for its extraordinary biodiversity and is recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.

The Sundarbans is characterised by extensive mangrove forests, winding rivers, swamps, and islets. The forest is protected by an intricate network of waterways connecting the waters of the Ganges and Brahmaputra rivers.

The Sundarbans is home to a variety of rare and endangered wildlife. The most famous of these is the Bengal tiger, one of the world's largest cat species. Tourists visiting the Sundarbans can explore the mangroves in traditional boats called ‘bajra’ and witness the amazing wildlife.

Tourists can go on a nature hike to see Bengal tigers and other wildlife or take a bird-watching tour to experience the beauty of these rare birds. Some visitors can also visit local fishing villages to understand the life of the people who live side by side with this forest.

Valley of Flowers is a valley located in the Garhwal region of the Himalayas in the state of Uttarakhand, India. This valley is known for its stunning natural beauty and diverse plants and flowers.

Situated at an elevation of about 3,500 to 4,000 metres above sea level, the valley is surrounded by towering mountains, beautiful waterfalls, and swift-flowing rivers.

This valley is renowned for its abundant flora, especially in terms of flowers. During summer, the valley blooms with thousands of colourful flowers, including edelweiss, Himalayan anemone, primula, and many more. These plants create an extraordinary and mesmerising sight.

Among the animals that can be found in this valley are such beautiful birds as the clay sparrow, lake bird, and snow eagle. Several mammals, such as Himalayan civets, Himalayan deer, and snow wolves, are also seen around the valley.

Tourists can take a challenging hike to reach this valley and enjoy the stunning views. Upon arriving at the Valley of Flowers, they will be greeted by the beauty of the flowers that spread across the vast meadows. Visitors can explore the valley on foot via designated trails, enjoy the fresh air, and admire the stunning natural beauty.

The Ganges is one of India's longest rivers, with great cultural, religious, and geographical significance.

Geographically, the Ganges originates from the Himalayas in northern India and flows for about 2,525 kilometres across the major states of Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and West Bengal before emptying into the Bay of Bengal.

However, the significance of the Ganges River also has deep religious and cultural value for the people of India. The Ganges is considered a sacred river and revered by Hindus as the personification of the goddess Ganga, who is believed to have the power to cleanse sins and grant spiritual purity.

Every year, millions of Hindus travel to the banks of the Ganges to perform purification rituals and dispose of their ashes there. Apart from the religious aspect, the Ganges has also greatly impacted India's cultural life. A symbol of life and fertility, the river has often inspired Indian art, music, poetry, and literature.

Travellers from all over the world come to the Ganges to experience its natural majesty, spiritual serenity, and the rich cultural life around it. You can also go on a river trip on a traditional boat, visit holy places like Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Varanasi, and observe daily life on the riverbanks.

If you are lucky, you can also witness religious rituals performed by Hindus, interact with local residents, and feel the unique aura presented by the Ganges River.

India always has something for everyone, whether you are looking for a friendly backpacking experience or a luxury holiday. Plan your trip to India with Traveloka now and have a great adventure! Don't forget to book your Melbourne to New Delhi flight with us!