Top 5 must-see destinations in North India
North India has nothing to envy to South India. Between the desert and the mountains, the temples and the cultural heritage, there is something for everyone. Here is our top 5 destinations not to be missed during your trip.
Varanasi, the sacred city: Varanasi formerly Benares, is located on the bank of the Ganga, the most sacred river in India. It is the city which receives the most pilgrims in India. It is part of the 7 sacred cities of Hinduism. Hindus come from all over the world to Varanasi to purify themselves in the Ganga or to die there. Walk on the ghats (docks) early in the morning to see the Indians do their laundry and spread out their meters of Saree to dry on the ground, an explosion of colors. The burning ghat where cremations have been linked for millennia. Be sure to walk through the old town, which weaves a particularly inextricable network of alleys, where losing yourself is pretty common. Warning!! A meeting with a cow is not improbable !!
Agra, the essential: Who has never dreamed of seeing the Taj Mahal? The eternal symbol of love. Shah Jahan, who ravaged by the lay death of his wife Mumtaz, decided to build a mausoleum as beautiful as his love for her was. It is one of the 7 wonders of the world. Architectural Mughal style, this building has been able to go through history without special damages, which allows you to admire it even today as it was when it was built. Be sure to visit 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 East for its many canals. This city has become famous for the filming of the James Bond film “Octopus” but also owes its reputation to its sumptuous royal residences. Do not miss the visit of the “lake palace”. 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 athletic, a nice 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 named the golden city for the ocher and sandy color of its facades. Jaisalmer is home to many curiosities including a citadel built at the top of a hill sheltering many Havelis and a fort. The top of the city excursions is inevitably a desert safari, go for 2 days 1 night, on camel or jeep, to sleep in the desert, under the stars or in a tent it’s a experience not to be missed.
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 for pilgrimage of 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 basin” and you will quickly understand why when entering the temple. Indeed the Golden temple is in the middle of a sacred pool where the faithful bath to purify themselves and be in good health. Go to the Langar of the Temple, to share a simple but tasty meal with the faithful. The Langar is the common kitchen placed in a Gurdwara where everyone eats for free without distinction (a donation at the end of the meal according to your possibilities, is welcome).
