Why you should travel to India?

As an Indian girl, it’s surprising that it still took me thirty years to finally set foot in the motherland. In 2023, when a close Indian friend told me he was heading home to Hyderabad, India, I seized the opportunity to tag along. (Top tip: if you ever get the chance to travel with a local, take it! It’s the most authentic way to experience a new country.)

So, in January 2024, I embarked on a 16-day journey through India and let me tell you, India is something else—so special, in fact.

In all my travels, I’ve fallen in love with many countries, but rarely do I feel the urge to return immediately. India, however, was different and I returned again in late 2024 for more adventures! So, why should you travel to India?

1. The Food

“I never knew what bad food was until I moved abroad” quoted my local Indian friend. This statement made so much sense. Not once during our 16-day trip did we encounter a bad meal across India. Indians have high culinary standards, so expect diverse spices and bold flavours whether you are dining at a fine restaurant or are merely grabbing a quick bite at the dhaba (roadside restaurants normally found off motorways, serving traditional Indian cuisine) on your journey to your next destination. If you're a foodie, my top advice is to indulge in everything—from aromatic masala chai and succulent biryanis to dosas and sweet ras malai your taste buds are in for a treat! The food is so good It deserves its own post (What to eat in India)

I advise you to ease yourself in, especially with the street food, it’s common to experience an upset stomach In India (top tips when travelling to India) but please don’t let this deter you.

“I think you guys are ready to try pani poori” declared my friend halfway through our journey. For clarity, Pani poori is a snack that you can find at many street stalls that uses local water (number one thing you told to avoid). I suggest only trying if you are either an adventurous soul or have a strong stomach.

2. Rich History

India has a rich historical heritage spanning thousands of years. From the grandeur of the Mughal Empire to the architectural wonders of ancient dynasties, India offers a journey through time that will leave you spoilt for choice. During my short time there, I experienced a breathtaking range of cultural and historical landmarks.

The majestic Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, stands as the most iconic symbol of India's historical legacy, but it was just the beginning. Expect to encounter endless palaces, monuments, forts, and sacred sites across the country. Each region tells its own chapter of history, and I was fascinated by the vast contrast between the North and South. From intricately carved stone temples standing tall in the North to vibrant, multicoloured ones in the South, I was in awe of the diversity and rich culture found throughout the country

3. Stunning Nature

If you're seeking a country that offers the hustle and bustle of city life alongside peaceful nature retreats where you can slow down and unwind, India truly has it all. The natural landscapes will leave you yearning for more. From the lush green tea plantations and diverse wildlife of Kerala to the endless coconut palms and white sandy beaches of Goa, my second visit to India was a complete 360° from my first! This time, I experienced a blend of vibrant city energy and the tranquil beauty of nature.

And yet, I only scratched the surface. A local friend shared insights about Gujarat—the land of lions—and Ladakh, home to Umling La, the highest mountain pass in India. His breathtaking photos of these serene landscapes has already inspired me to plan my next trip back to India!

4.The Chaos

“Growing up in India, I cannot relate to those who say they are overwhelmed by New York,” my local friend said. After experiencing the energy of India, I could resonate with his statement. He added, referring to the roads and transport, “There are no rules in India; don’t have any expectations.” This became even clearer as I traveled by scooter, rickshaw, and car; the experience was always the same. By the end of my trip, I was no longer surprised to see vehicles cutting across streets and cows lounging in the middle of the roads.

The first time I stepped out into Delhi, the sheer chaos of the roads, markets, and life left me gobsmacked! But just two weeks later, I embraced the chaos and realised it added to India’s charm. Everything in my surroundings—the bustling streets, wandering cows, honking rickshaws, and the endless tempting aromas from sizzling street stalls—constantly kept me on high alert and fully engaged. You will never experience a dull day in India’s city bustle!

As someone who typically dislikes huge crowds, I surprisingly enjoyed immersing myself in the chaos of India. Words cannot capture its essence—you simply have to go and experience it firsthand.

5. Budget Friend

Whether you're looking to travel in style or stick to a small daily budget, India has something for everyone. The currency is the Indian Rupee, and I recommend carrying cash with you. We found plenty of ATMs available for withdrawing cash once we arrived!

What I found even more appealing, in addition to the affordability, was that regardless of how much you spent—whether small or large—the hospitality and service from the staff were always impeccable!

My number one rule for shopping in India is to always bargain. The northern part of the country is notorious for scams. When attempting to purchase goods, suggest a price you're willing to pay, and if there’s no flexibility, don't hesitate to walk away. Countless times whilst we visited the numerous markets, we used this approach and were almost always called back to renegotiate.