Top 5 des destinations incontournables en Inde du Nord
North India has nothing to envy of South India. Between the desert and the mountains, the temples and the cultural heritage, there is something for everyone. Here are our Top 5 destinations not to be missed during your trip.
Varanasi, the sacred city: The city of Varanasi, formerly Benares, is located on the bank of the Ganges, the most sacred river in India. It is the city which welcomes the most pilgrims in India. It is one of the 7 sacred cities of Hinduism. Hindus come from all over the world to Varanasi to purify themselves in the Ganges or to die there. Walk along the ghats (quays) early in the morning to see the Indians doing their laundry and spreading meters of Saree to dry on the ground, an explosion of colors. Pass by the burning ghât, where cremations have taken place for millennia. Don’t forget to stroll through the old town, which weaves a particularly inextricable network of alleys, where getting lost is quite common. Attention!! An encounter with a cow is not improbable!!
Agra, the unmissable: Who has never dreamed of seeing the Taj Mahal? The eternal symbol of love. Shah Jahan, who was devastated by the death of his wife Mumtaz in childbirth, decided to build a Mausoleum as beautiful as his love for her. It is one of the 7 wonders of the world. In the Mughal architectural style, this building has survived history without suffering any particular damage, which allows us to still admire it today as it was when it was built. Don’t miss visiting the Taj Mahal at sunrise to see the first rays of the sun reveal all its splendor.
Udaipur, the Venice of the East: The city is located in the state of Rajasthan. This city is often called the White City or the Venice of the Orient for its many canals. This city became famous for the filming of the James Bond film « Octopus » but also owes its reputation to its sumptuous royal residences. Don’t miss the visit to the « lake palace », or palace on the water. Take the opportunity to drink a lassi in one of the many rooftop restaurants while admiring a magnificent sunset over the lake. For the more sporty, a beautiful bike ride around the lake is a must.
Jaisalmer, at the gates of the desert: Located in the state of Rajasthan, at the gates of the Thar desert, this city is nicknamed the golden city for the ocher and sandy color of its facades. Jaisalmer is home to many sights, including a citadel built on top of a hill housing numerous Havelis and a fort. The best excursions in the city are unavoidably a safari in the desert, go for 2 days 1 night, on the back of a camel or in a jeep to sleep in the desert, under the stars or in a tent, it’s an experience not to be missed miss.
Amritsar and its Golden Temple: Located in the state of Punjab, this city is home to the famous Golden Temple also called Harmandir Sâhib. This socio-religious building is an important place of pilgrimage for the Sikh community from around the world. Don’t hesitate to cover your head, take off your shoes and wash your feet to visit this temple. The name of the city means « nectar pool » and you will quickly understand why when you enter the temple. Indeed, the Golden Temple is located in the middle of a sacred pool where the faithful bathe to purify themselves and be in good health. Go to Langar, to share a simple but tasty meal with the faithful. The Langar is the common kitchen, located in a Gurdwara, where everyone eats for free without distinction (a financial contribution at the end of the meal according to your means is welcome).
