Things to Do in India

Choose from 274 Fun Things to Do in India

Sarnath

Sarnath is a small town in Uttar Pradesh, situated 13 kilometers from the holy city of Varanasi. As the place where Gautama Buddha first taught the Dharma, and also where the original Sangha was formed, Sarnath is one of the four major Buddhist pilgrimage destinations in India.

It is said that the Buddha went from Bodh Gaya to the now famous deer park in Sarnath around five weeks after his enlightenment to give his first sermon to his five disciples, Kaundinya, Bashpa, Bhadrika, Mahanama, and Ashvajit.

Within the deer park complex is the large Dhamek Stupa, constructed by the Emperor Ashoka in 249 BC to commemorate his pilgrimage there. It is said that this stupa marks the exact spot where the Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. There are also several other ancient Buddhist structures in the park, along with a museum – the Sarnath Archaeological Museum – which houses a small collection of artefacts exhumed from across the site.

Practical Info

Sarnath is easily reached by taxi or auto-rickshaw from Varanasi. If coming from further afield, the nearest train station is Varanasi Cantt, which is connected to most major cities in India (Sarnath does have a small train station, but very few trains stop there).

Sarnath, India

From $ 8

Reis Magos Fort

Situated on the banks of the Mandovi River, this scenic fort was built by the Portuguese in 1551 to protect the Mandovi estuary, and was reconstructed in 1707. It was abandoned for much of the 19th and 20th centuries before being turned into a prison. It was later restored and turned into the tourist attraction that it is today.

The Basics

While the fort is fun to explore, it’s the view that really makes it worth visiting. A trip up to the highest point of the structure is not to be missed, for the fabulous vantage point it offers to the forest and river below. Keep your eyes peeled for inscriptions around the grounds; one marks the spot where the remains of Dom Luis de Ataide, the Count of Atouguia and former Viceroy of Portuguese India and Goa, are interred.

Things to Know Before You Go

The fort is a must-visit for history lovers and photographers.
Bring sunscreen and bottled water, as the fort and the area around it can be hot and sunny.
Wear good walking shoes, because access to the fort requires ascending a steep, mossy staircase.

How to Get There

Reis Magos Fort sits on the northern banks of the Mandovi River, just across from Panaji, but traveling from the fort to the state capital requires a 20-minute drive via the Mandovi Bridge. It's about a 25-minute drive to the fort from Calangute. Because local bus service can be slow, travelers without their own means of transport are best off hiring a taxi or joining a tour that stops at the fort.

When to Get There

The fort is open daily from 8am to 4:30pm and doesn't usually get too crowded. The best time to visit is early in the morning when temperatures are cooler, especially if your Goa visit coincides with the hot pre-monsoon season (roughly April and May).

Reis Magos Church

At the base of the fort sits Reis Magos Church, the first church in the Bardez area of Goa. This whitewashed house of worship was built in 1555 and dedicated to St. Jerome, though it's best known for its connection to the Three Wise Men (Reis Magos). Inside the church is a wooden relief depicting the three kings and the annual Epiphany feast (January 6), which honors the wise men's visit to the baby Jesus.

Goa, India

Varies

From $ 35

Safdarjung's Tomb

The 18th-century Safdarjung’s Tomb, though not as well known as some of New Delhi’s bigger, older Mughal-era tombs, is worth a visit for its beautiful Mughal architecture and pleasant lack of crowds. It’s a peaceful place to escape traffic noise, and its location at the border of Central and South Delhi make it a convenient spot for a visit.

The Basics

As its name suggests, Safdarjung’s Tomb is the final resting place of the Viceroy of Awadh—popularly known as Safdarjung. The Mughal-style structure was built in 1754, making it the newest of India’s closed garden tombs, and much of its architectural inspiration was drawn from the better-known Humayun’s Tomb to the east. Like many Indian tombs of its era, it features a char bagh (four-quarter) garden as well as an intricate interior featuring carved floral designs in marble and red sandstone.

Safdarjung’s Tomb is often visited independently or on a combined tour with the nearby Lodi Gardens. It also features on some full-day tours of Delhi.

Things to Know Before You Go

Safdarjung’s Tomb is a must for fans of history and Mughal architecture.
Bring sun protection and plenty of water on hot days, as there’s not much shade (except inside the tomb itself).
Wear good shoes here. The gardens surrounding the tomb aren’t well maintained, and the area gets dusty or muddy, depending on the season.

How to Get There

Safdarjung’s Tomb is located where Sri Aurobindo Marg and Lodhi Road meet, making it easy to access by road from Central or South Delhi. The Jorbagh metro station is a 4-minute walk from the tomb’s eastern entrance.

When to Get There

Safdarjung’s Tomb is open from sunrise to sunset Tuesday through Sunday. It generally doesn’t get too crowded here, though to beat the heat—especially in May and June—opt for an early-morning visit. Best to avoid the tomb during the monsoon season, as the gardens and pathways get muddy.

Exploring Delhi’s Tombs

Delhi is full of fascinating tombs, from the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Humayun’s Tomb to smaller, Archaeological Survey of India–managed mausoleums of lesser-known nobility and rulers scattered throughout local neighborhoods and parks. Many city tours focus on these majestic tombs, allowing visitors to see the evolution of older constructions (such as those found in Lodi Gardens) to relatively young tombs, such as that of Safdarjung.

Lodi Estate, New Delhi, ND DL, India

From $ 14

Salar Jung Museum

The halls of this regal-looking museum are filled with art from not only from India, but from the eastern and western worlds. Travelers who venture to the entry of this imposing white structure will find works dating as far back at the 2nd century and as recent as the 20th century. And while the museum showcases the best of local art and culture, visitors will also find plenty of nods to Greek, Roman, and other European influences.

The stone sculptures, bronze statues, jade carvings, handmade tapestries and colorful Buddhist paintings are just part of what makes the Salar Juang Museum one of Hyderabad’s most popular attractions. An optional audio guided tour unlocks more of the history of the stunning works inside the museum’s halls and travelers say even a couple of hours isn’t enough to take in all of Salar Jung’s collection.

Practical Info

The museum is located on Darui Shifa Road near the southern bank of the Musi River. It is open daily from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. and closed on Fridays.

Darui Shifa Road, Hyderabad 500002, India

Open daily from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. and closed on Fridays and public holidays

Adults: Rs. 500

From $ 42

Sahelion Ki Bari

Well-kept grounds, beautiful fountains, a small museum and towering marble elephants are just part of what makes Sahelion Ki Bari a destination for travelers visiting Udaipur. Its unique history adds to the wonder of this enchanted city escape, since these quiet lotus pools, open pavilions and lush landscapes were originally created as respite for a group of 48 women who traveled with a princess to the city as a part of her marriage dowry. Today, visitors can wander the grounds where queens once watched dancers perform and explore the famous fountains that shower natural lake water in a landscape that visitors describe as almost rainforest-like. Be sure to pack a camera. Despite some noted maintenance needs, Sahelion Ki Bari remains a picture-perfect destination.

Practical Info

Sahelion Ki Bari is located in the northern part of Udaipur.

Saheli Marg, Infront of Satnam Digital Colour Camera Corner, Saheli Nagar, Udaipur, Rajasthan, India 313001, India

From $ 18

Shantadurga Temple

Surrounded by lush vegetation at the foothills of the village of Kavlem in the Ponda Taluka district of Goa, the Shantadurga Temple is dedicated to Shree Shantadurga, the goddess of peace. A small mud shrine of the goddess once sat at the site, which was then transformed into an elaborate temple in 1738, with further renovations in the 1960s.

According to Hindu mythology, the goddess is famous for playing mediator between Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu, taking Shiva by her left hand and Vishnu by her right to pacify the warring gods. This is why the idol of the goddess inside the Shantadurga Temple is flanked by statues of Shiva and Vishnu, and why she holds a serpent in each hand – to represent the gods.

Architecturally, the temple is a fusion of Indo-Portuguese styles. There is a main temple and three smaller temples for other deities built around it. The temple building features a series of pyramidal roofs with a dome.

Practical Info

The Shantadurga Temple is easily reached by road from Panaji, Goa’s state capital. All visitors must dress conservatively.

Verem-Nerul Road, Panaji, Goa, India

From $ 44

Regal Circle

Regal Circle sits at the entrance to the Colaba Causeway in central Mumbai. With a fountain at its center, and surrounded by famous landmarks such as the Regal Cinema, the Maharashtra police headquarters, and a number of museums and galleries, this bustling area is a popular place to visit.

The art-deco Regal Cinema is one of the most distinctive landmarks around the Regal Circle. This was built during the cinema boom of the 1930s, and today is a multi-site building with the cinema sharing its space with various shops. Opposite this old theater, the exquisite architecture of the Sahakari Bhandar building looms over, with the equally impressive police headquarters nearby.

There are a number of restaurants and art galleries surrounding Regal Circle, including the National Gallery of Modern Art. Roads from here also lead to popular attractions close by, such as the Gateway of India and the Colaba Causeway, which is popular with shoppers.

The landmarks surrounding Regal Circle are included in a number of Mumbai sightseeing tours. As all of the attractions are within walking distance, this area is best explored as part of a colonial-era heritage walking tour.

Did You Know? The first film to be aired at the Regal Cinema was the Laurel and Hardy film, The Devil's Brother, in 1933.

Practical Info

Regal Circle is in a central location, close to Mumbai’s most popular sights and attractions. It’s also a busy interchange that’s often clogged with traffic, so visitors should be wary of vehicles and keep small children close by.

Regal Circle, Mumbai, India

From $ 62

Royal Gaitor

Set against the rugged backdrop of the Aravali Mountains, Royal Gaitor is a beautiful funerary complex that houses the intricately carved cenotaphs of many of Jaipur's former rulers, including Jai Singh II, who founded Jaipur. One of the quieter places in town, Royal Gaitor is a great spot to escape the noise of the Pink City.

The Basics

Royal Gaitor has been the traditional funerary grounds for Jaipur's royal family since the time of Jai Singh II, whose beautiful white-marble cenotaph occupies the older part of the complex. At the center sits the intricately carved cenotaph of Maharaja Madho Singh II, who had five wives and 18 mistresses, but never produced an heir. Though the attraction is a bit off the beaten tourist path, some day tours of Jaipur stop here.

Things to Know Before You Go

Royal Gaitor is a must visit for those with an interest in history or architecture.
Make sure to wear sunscreen and a hat, as this attraction gets lots of direct sunlight.
Getting around the complex may prove challenging for wheelchair users or those with compromised mobility.

How to Get There

Royal Gaitor is located just north of the Pink City, about 10 minutes’ drive from the City Palace (without traffic) or 20 minutes from Amber Fort. It's easiest to reach by auto rickshaw or taxi, or as part of an organized tour, as it's a bit too far to walk from any of the other main attractions in the area.

When to Get There

Royal Gaitor is open daily 9am to 4:30pm, and access is free to the public. Because the attraction is largely outside, travelers are best off visiting first thing in the morning, when the sun is less powerful. Jaipur is best visited in the fall or winter months (this is the desert, after all), and outdoor activities are best avoided during the hot months of May and June.

Chhatris

One of the most common features in Indian architecture, chhatris are round canopy-style pavilions that are frequently used to adorn palaces and forts, particularly in Rajasthan. The word also refers to memorials built over cremation sites, which follow a similar architectural style. They are often decorated with carvings, as is the case with Jai SIngh II's chhatri.

Jaipur, India

From $ 16

Shankar's International Dolls Museum

Equal parts kitschy and cute, Shankar’s International Dolls Museum was founded by political cartoonist K. Shankar Pillai to house one of the largest collections of dolls anywhere on the planet. Shankar received a single doll as a gift from the Hungarian Ambassador during the early 1950s and quickly developed a fascination. He began collecting them on his frequent trips abroad until his collection numbered more than 500.

When the museum was opened in 1965, the collection had grown to about 1,000, and another 5,000 were gifted over the next two decades. Today the colorful museum, located within the Children’s Book Trust, displays more than 6,500 dolls from 85 different countries — everything from Spanish flamenco dancers to Japanese geishas. The India exhibit — a highlight of the museum — has 500 dolls dressed in traditional costumes from around India.

Practical Info

Access to Shankar’s International Dolls Museum is through a dedicated entrance of the Children’s Book Trust on Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg.

4 Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg, New Delhi, India

Open Tues-Sun 10am-6pm

17 rupees

From $ 18

Ripon Building

Built in the Indo-saracenic architectural style, Chennai’s Ripon Building serves as the headquarters of the Corporation of Chennai, a civic governing body of the city and the oldest municipal body of the Commonwealth outside Great Britain.

Located near the Chennai Railway Station, the ornate white Ripon Building was commissioned in 1913 and took four years to complete. A 2012 restoration returned it to its original Raj-era splendor. Loganatha Mudaliar, the architect who led the construction, named the building after Lord Ripon, the then Governor General of British India.

The highlight of the structure is the eight-foot (2.5-meter) clock, known as the Westminster Chiming Clock, that occupies the rectangular building’s central tower.

Practical Info

As a working government building, visitors are not allowed inside the Ripon Building, but it’s worth admiring from the outside, especially for those with an interest in Indian architecture.

Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, India

From $ 8

Sanjay Gandhi National Park

The Sanjay Gandhi National Park lies on the north suburban fringes of Mumbai and is said to be the largest park located within city limits in the world. It’s sprawled across more than 100 square-kilometers and is one of Asia's most visited national parks, with two million visitors flooding through each and every year.

Set against a backdrop of undulating greenery, with panoramic views of the hills, lakes, and valleys, the Sanjay Gandhi National Park is the ideal retreat from the hustle and bustle of Mumbai city life. The park is home to a number of endangered species of both flora and fauna. Among its many residents are wild leopards and tigers, migratory birds, nearly 40 species of reptile, plus some unique and fascinating flora.

Other attractions within the park include the Kanheri Caves (monastic structures dating back to between the 1st century BC and 9th century AD), a famous Jain Temple, and two lakes (Tulsi and Vihar), which provide water to the city of Mumbai.

Practical Info

The entrance to the Sanjay Gandhi National Park is located on the eastern side of the suburb of Borivali, less than a kilometer from Borivali station. Trains leave from Mumbai Central station to Borivali every five minutes throughout the day.

Borivali East, Mumbai, India

From $ 44

Sai Baba Temple

Situated on a busy road at the border of Central and South Delhi, this temple is dedicated not to a deity but to Shirdi Sai Baba, a 19th-century saint who was renowned for teaching compassion, charity, and pluralism. He's one of the most revered saints in Hinduism today, and his temple is one of the busiest in this part of town.

The Basics

Sai Baba of Shirdi was a saint whose teachings incorporated philosophical underpinnings from devotional Hinduism and Sufism. He's respected by Hindus and Muslims alike, but whether he was of Hindu or Muslim origin is uncertain. What is known is that he taught compassion, charity, and the importance of eliminating communitarianism and divisions between caste and religions. As such, adherents of all faiths and cultural backgrounds are welcome in his temples.

The Sai Baba Temple is part of Mughal heritage tours or sightseeing tours of Central Delhi’s spiritual sites. A Golden Triangle trip takes you to Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur, while a short trip from Jaipur is great for those with limited time.

Things to Know Before You Go

Remember to remove your shoes before entering the temple.
Out of respect for local customs, your knees and shoulders should be covered.
Expect crowds, especially if you’re visiting on a Thursday evening, when the temple is at its busiest.

How to Get There

The Sai Baba Temple is in the Lodhi Road Institutional Area, south of Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium Lodhi Road in New Delhi. It's conveniently close to a number of attractions, including Lodhi Gardens and Humayun's Tomb, each about five minutes away by car. The closest metro stop is at Jangpura, but it's still about a 20-minute walk away, so you may be better off coming by taxi or as part of an organized tour.

When to Get There

Thursday is dedicated to Sai Baba, so this is when you’re likely to see the most crowds here. In general, this temple is at its most crowded around sunset, when devotees come en masse to make offerings and pray. If you’re looking to avoid crowds, come earlier in the day.

Sab Ka Malik Ek

Sai Baba is most famous in India for saying, “Sab Ka Malik Ek,” which roughly translates to “everyone’s lord is one.” In his eyes, and in the eyes of his devotees, while different religions may have different practices and philosophies, they’re all worshiping the same divine God. It’s not uncommon to see this phrase on windshield stickers in India, indicating that the car’s owners are devotees of Sai Baba.

India

From $ 27

Shree Siddhivinayak

The towering white dome of this famous temple stretches high into the sky of bustling Mumbai. Travelers to this popular religious destination will find an idol of Shree Siddhivinayak carved from a single stone, in addition to a number of other gods and religious artworks.

Travelers and locals warn that long lines and major crowds are typical of this beautiful temple, but also say those in charge handle the large number tourists and worshipers like pros. Visitors looking for a peaceful, reflective experience should stop at the temple just before closing (around 8 pm) when a bit of quiet falls over Shree Siddhivinayak, and the city.

Practical Info

The temple is located at the corner of Kakasaheb Gadgil Marg and S.K. Bole Marg in Prabhadevi. It is free to visit.

SK Bole Marg, Prabhadevi, Mumbai 400028, India

From $ 50

S.J. Studios

India’s film and television industry got the name “Bollywood,” derived from America’s Hollywood, as Bombay (Mumbai) became the center of Hindi cinema. It remains at the center of Indian culture and entertainment. Some of Bollywood’s most famous productions have come out Mumbai’s S.J. Studios, of one of its premier filming locations. Bollywood films are shot here 365 days a year, and by some of the industry’s top actors. On set tours show everything from hospitals to a police station and a cafe, all used as the backdrop for Bollywood productions.

Visitors have the chance to get a peek into the present world of Bollywood, immersed in dancing or action scenes. There is also a portrait gallery of Bollywood stars, demonstrating its progression from black and white to the special effects of today. With eight full-sized sets open to guests, chances are high that you’ll see a filming taking place.

Practical Info

S.J. Studios is located on Kherani Road in Sakinaka, Mumbai. Tours are conducted daily and in English.

Khairani Rd, Chandivali, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India 400072, India

Open to the public during daily tours only

$60

From $ 92

San Thome Cathedral

Saint Thomas the Apostle, or ‘Doubting Thomas,’ as he was later called, came to India in 52 AD where he purportedly lived out the remainder of his days. The 16th century Sao Thome Cathedral, built by the Roman Catholic Portuguese and later rebuilt by the British, is said to house the bodily remains of St Thomas in a tomb below the white neo-Gothic structure.

A series of stained glass windows inside the basilica depict scenes from St Thomas’s life and carved wooden panels recount the last days of Jesus’s life from his last temptation to the crucifixion. As a working cathedral, visitors are welcome to stop in for mass (in both English and Tamil), though the church draws larger crowds for mass.

After visiting the main cathedral, view the tomb of St Thomas in the underground Tomb Chapel, accessible from outside the main church structure. Another structure on the grounds houses a small museum containing artifacts related to St Thomas and a theater showing a video about his life.

38, San Thome High Road, Chennai 600 004, India

From $ 23

Sarojini Nagar Market

Sarojini Nagar Market is one of Delhi’s most popular markets, predominantly specializing in export brand names at extremely low prices. Located to the southwest of the city center, this bustling spot is popular with locals and tourists looking for bargains they can’t get elsewhere.

The market has a vibrant energy about it, and the sheer variety of merchandise on offer means you could easily spend half a day rummaging around its numerous shops and stalls. Discount western-style clothes aren’t the only thing on offer either, with home furnishings, bags, cosmetics, footwear, jewelry, and other accessories all a part of the market’s mix too.

Sarojini Nagar Market is the ideal place for keen shoppers, and can be enjoyed as part of a guided tour of Delhi's markets. As well as having an expert's opinion as you shop and haggle for bargains, this offers the added benefit of being privately transported to several of the city’s other popular markets.

Insider’s Tip: Sarojini Nagar Market is one of the best places in the city to try out your bargaining skills. Haggling for a better price is expected, with savings of up to 50 percent off the asking price to be had, so don’t always accept the first price you’re offered. The first rule of haggling is to keep the exchange positive – a friendly smile can go a long way.

Practical Info

If not arriving as part of an organized tour, you can reach this market by taking the metro to the newly-built Sarojini Nagar station.

Sarojini Nagar, New Delhi, India

Open Tues-Sun 11am-8pm

From $ 28

Sajjangarh Palace (Monsoon Palace)

Sajjangarh Palace (known as the Monsoon Palace) is set on a hilltop with fantastic city views. It was originally built as a getaway during the monsoon season and as an astrological center, but the latter project was never finished. The palace has also been used as a royal hunting lodge, and even appeared in the James Bond film Octopussy.

The Basics

High on a hilltop, about 1,100 feet (335 meters) above Lake Pichola, Sajjangarh Palace offers some of the best views in Udaipur. This nine-story palace is made from white marble, carved with intricate floral designs. Most visits take place during the day, as part of a tour of Udaipur, but the palace is a sight to behold when viewed from a distance at night, when it's illuminated with dozens of floodlights.

Things to Know Before You Go
Sajjangarh Palace is a must-visit for architecture lovers and history buffs.
Wear comfortable shoes and sunscreen.
This sight is not suitable for wheelchair users.

How to Get There

The Monsoon Palace is located up a steep, winding road, just outside of Udaipur's main city, and it's only accessible by motor vehicle (auto rickshaws are not allowed). Getting there from city center locations such as the City Palace or railway station takes about a half-hour by car.

When to Get There

Udaipur’s weather is most pleasant between November and February, when the sun is not as bright or strong. The hottest months are May and June, and the monsoon from late June through August can make the city feel gloomy (though heavy rainfall usually isn’t an issue here). The palace is open daily 9am to 6pm.

Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary

The palace is surrounded by the beautifully preserved Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary, which wraps around the palace and is hemmed in by the Kishan Pol wall. Ironically, the area was previously a shooting reserve, though today the many creatures here, including jackals, wild boars, reptiles, and even tigers and panthers, are protected.

Udaipur, Rajasthan, India, India

Varies

From $ 14

Red Fort (Lal Qila)

The UNESCO World Heritage–listed Red Fort (Lal Qila) traces its roots back to the middle of the 17th century, when Mughal Emperor Shahjahan moved his base from Agra to Delhi. For the two centuries that followed, this gargantuan sandstone complex served as the royal residence of the Mughal Empire. Today, it’s one of the city’s most popular attractions, often visited in tandem with nearby Chandni Chowk.

The Basics

One of the best-preserved architectural sites in Delhi, the Red Fort provides a fascinating glimpse into the inner workings of India’s former Mughal Empire. Highlights of this octagonal complex include the Diwan-i-Aam, where emperors and prime ministers once addressed the public, plus the Mumtaz Mahal, which hosts a Mughal history museum, complete with six halls full of artifacts ranging from old manuscripts to astronomical tools. Don’t miss the Diwan-i-Khas, a small hall full of decorated archways and topped with regal chhatris (domed canopies).

The Red Fort is a highlight on most group and private sightseeing tours of Old and New Delhi, many of which also include stops at the nearby Chandni Chowk market, India Gate, and the Jama Masjid. Evening tours may include admission to the Red Fort sound and light show along with dinner.

Things to Know Before You Go

The Red Fort is huge, spanning over 120 acres (49 hectares). Make sure you set aside at least two hours for your visit.
The complex is wheelchair accessible, featuring wide pathways and limited steps.
Wear sunscreen and bring a hat or a parasol, as much of the fort is uncovered and open to the elements.
The Red Fort is closed on Mondays.

How to Get There

The Red Fort is located in bustling Old Delhi, just north of the Jama Masjid, on the western banks of the Yamuna River. It’s right next to the Lal Qila metro station on the Violet Line of the Delhi Metro and about a 10-minute walk from the Old Delhi Railway Station. Most visitors arrive by car or metro or as part of a guided tour.

When to Get There

The Red Fort is open throughout the year, Tuesday to Sunday, from sunrise to sunset. The best time to visit is in winter, when the weather is comfortably cool. If your Delhi trip coincides with the sweltering summer season of May and June, consider arriving early in the day when temperatures are at their coolest and crowds are smallest.

Netaji Subhash Marg, New Delhi, India

Varies

From $ 9

Santa Cruz Basilica

Santa Cruz Basilica is notable for its Gothic architecture, with a whitewashed façade and beautiful interiors, with intricate pastel frescoes and paintings, and large stained glass windows. While it’s a popular attraction, it’s also a working church and the Sunday mass services here provide a great insight into local Catholic culture.

The Basics

One of the prettiest churches in Fort Kochi, Santa Cruz Basilica stands on the site of an old Portuguese church by the same name, though its current incarnation only dates back to the turn of the 20th century. Its stunning architecture and beautiful interiors, coupled with its location right in the heart of the Fort Kochi area, means it’s a popular stop on most tours of the old city. Arrive on foot or via private tuk tuk.

Things to Know Before You Go

A must-visit for art and architecture lovers.
Make sure to wear clothing that covers your knees and shoulders out of respect for local tradition.
Most of the church is wheelchair accessible.

How to Get There

The basilica is located in the Fort Kochi area of Kochi, a charming and historic area filled with old Dutch buildings, many of which have been converted to boutique hotels. The area is easy to walk around and attractions are well signposted. Kochi is west of the mainland city of Ernakulam and it takes at least a half-hour to get there, depending on traffic. If not traveling independently, arrive via a tour that includes round-trip transportation.

When to Get There

Santa Cruz Basilica is a working church and thus is open throughout the year, with services on Sundays and special holidays. The high season for visiting Kochi is during the winter months (December through February) when there’s not much rainfall and temperatures are relatively cool. However, it’s also the busiest time, especially when compared to the rainy June through November season or the sweltering summer (March through May).

The Art of Antonio Moscheni

The church features a gorgeous altar decorated by Antonio Moscheni, an Italian-born painter who created frescoes in churches across Southern India as well as in Croatia and Albania. He joined the Jesuits in his mid-30s and moved to India to paint the Chapel of St. Aloysius College in Mangalore, his best-known work.

Bastion Street, Fort Cochin, India

From $ 22

Sahakari Spice Farm

Sahakari Spice Farm provides an excellent first introduction to India's spice-growing and production. Here you'll get to see where your spices come from and learn about how they’re grown, dried, and processed. If they’re daring enough, guests can also try their hand at swinging from betel-nut palms.

The Basics

This farm is situated on a 130-acre (53-hectare) plot, 60 acres (24 hectares) of which grow spices, herbs, and fruits. Plants here include cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, peppers, cloves, curry ginger, and turmeric; cashews, Goa's most famous crop, are also processed at the farm. Although spices are the star attraction at Sahakari, there’s also a rustic restaurant here where meals are served in earthenware pots or from plates made from banana leaves.

Things to Know Before You Go

Wear sunscreen and bug spray.
This farm is great for families traveling with children.
Wheelchair users may face accessibility issues here.

How to Get There

The farm is located in Ponda, an inland town situated about an hour’s drive southeast of Panaji or half an hour from Old Goa. It’s not easy to get here by public transit, and it's a bit far to walk to from the Ponda town center. Travelers who don't have their own means of transportation (such as a motorscooter) are best off taking a taxi or coming as part of an organized tour.

When to Get There

Sahakari Spice Farm is open to visitors every day from 9:30am to 4:30pm. As many spices can grow year round, there's no ideal time to visit, though the monsoon rains from June through September can turn an otherwise pleasant farm visit into a muddy experience. Arrive first thing in the morning to avoid the unrelenting midday heat.

Buying Indian Spices

Visitors to India often like to pick up spices as souvenirs to bring back to their food-obsessed friends, but with myriad sold in markets across the country it can be hard to know where to start. Safe bets include classics such as turmeric (haldi) or cardamom (elaichi), though many travelers prefer to purchase premade spice mixes, such as garam masala (literally “hot spices,” used in all sorts of dishes) or spices for making masala chai, India’s most famous tea.

Post Box No. 31, Curti, Ponda, Goa, India

Varies

From $ 45