I fell in love with India around 5 years ago and ever since that first trip I have returned on 4 occasions and traveled extensively around its regions. In all honesty, I didn’t even think I would like it there, I knew that I liked the food, but that was pretty much it. Once I arrived however, my opinions quickly changed and I am planning on returning for my 6th time this October. If you choose to decide to spend your holiday in India then here are some of the places which I would recommend that you go to.

Kashmir

In terms of sheer natural beauty, Kashmir is up there with the best of them and it was the place which I first visited 5 years ago. Here you will find true Indian culture in the small villages that are littered through the region, wide plains and fresh lakes, all with the backdrop of the impending Himalaya mountain range.

Goa

If you are looking to party in India then Goa is the place for you, this is a 24/7 happy place where you can relax on the beach by day and party on it at night. The clock ceases to exist when you get to Goa and it truly is a revelers dream. For those not wanting anything to crazy, there are many areas of Goa which are set away from the bars and clubs and offer relaxing tranquility on the Indian Ocean.

Agra

India’s main event is undoubtedly the Taj Mahal, one of the seven wonders of the modern world and a truly breathtaking building which has stood the test of time. In order to see the Taj Mahal and the surrounding buildings, you should stay in Aggra, a very ‘Indian’ city which bustles with markets and somewhat surprisingly given its proximity to the Taj Mahal, it isn’t too touristy.

Bangalore

Bangalore is a modern metropolis which is also home to India’s high-tech industry so much so that it is often referred to as the Indian ‘Silicon Valley’. There is a very international feel about this city and the drinking and dining scene are growing rapidly with lots of trendy new bars and restaurants popping up throughout the city. This is a great city to relax in for a few days, especially if you have been putting in the work traveling through some of the more rural areas of India. Throughout the city you will find many plazas, shopping centers and open parks where you can enjoy the warm climate and some modern Indian culture.

Jaipur

To experience the very best of India’s rich history you should go to the northern city of Jaipur. Once the home of the royal family which ruled the region of Rajasthan, this city houses a vast number of ancient houses and temples with the opulent Palace complex amongst the most popular of the attractions in the city. There is a very local feel about the city and in terms of markets, you will do well to find many as grand or busy as there are in Jaipur.