Often when you are planning your holiday in India, the first thing that you want to check off your travel bucket list is visiting one of the Seven Wonders of the World: Taj Mahal. But what next? Everybody wants to make the most out of their trips and would like to experience a place from a local’s point of view.
That’s why I have compiled this list of some quirky Indian travel experiences that I highly recommend to be on your India travel bucket list! On that note, I had a few travel blogger friends of mine, share their amazing travel experiences in India which I have included below for your reference!
1. Stay in India’s first Igloo hotel
Yes, India finally has its first operational Igloo hotel in the hills of Hamta/Sethan valley making your dream come true of staying amidst snow-capped mountains, all because of two winter-sport specialists, Vikas Kumar, and Tashi Dorje.
The Igloo stay of Keylinga Himalayan Adventures is one of its kind. Not only that, to make the stay more exciting, it has been clubbed with winter activities like skiing, tube sliding, snow sledding and even building our own Igloo!
The Igloos are built in the mountains, located approximately 10,000 feet MSL, in Hampta/Sethan Valley which is approximately 18 km away from the main town of Manali and it is accessible only by 4WD vehicles or by trekking which normally takes 3-4 hours from the Base Camp (Hotel Keylinga Inn at Prini – 4 km from Mall Road, Manali) during heavy winters.
The Igloos will melt away too with the approaching summer months, so from January to March, are the only chance to undergo this unique and wonderful experience, which should surely be on your bucket list if you are planning to visit India in those months.
2. Camel Safari in the Thar Desert By Rhianne of Wanderfully Living
Jaisalmer is an interesting, dusty desert town on the far west side of Rajasthan not too far from the India-Pakistan border. On your way to the town, you cannot miss to stop and go on a desert Camel Safari. You can book a Camel safari in any of the local booking offices and in almost all the hotels in the area.
Once you reach the desert campsite, the next step will be to mount a huge camel which will be your mode of transport in and around the desert. Don’t worry if you’ve never ridden a camel before, there’s nothing to fear. There will be a desert camp guide to escort you through your journey.
You will slowly travel over the rolling sand dunes and into the vast nothingness of the Thar desert. The Safari ends with a relaxing camping experience in the desert under a starry sky. It’s an experience of a lifetime and can turn your India tour quite memorable.
3. Go Glamping like Royalty in Rajasthan
An amalgamation of splendor and regal heritage, Rajasthan is nothing less than a medley of beautiful palaces, vivacious fairs, and festivals, delicious food, striking monuments and camel safaris in the Thar. With camping being an integral part of the nomadic desert life, your trip would be incomplete without a night spent in a tent by the desert in Rajasthan.
If spending the night in a rustic tent is not your thing then no worries. There are plenty of options that will let you go glamping like a royalty! Be it in the desert or under Aravalli range’s green shelter, there are plenty of luxury tents in Rajasthan to pick from.
Staying in one such tent by the desert will let you explore the rugged desert life and see the vivid beauty of the sand dunes at night, as well as experience the solitude of desert living. Or if you choose to stay surrounded by lush greenery, you can soak in the beauty of the rough landscape as well as experience the thrill of staying in adventurous tented camps.
4. Hot Air Balloon Ride in Jaipur
The Pink City of India, Jaipur is home to some of the most magnificent palaces and forts from the bygone era, besides several man-made lakes and temples that never cease to amaze the tourists. The latest additions to the city of Jaipur are various adventure activities to entertain the myriads of tourists visiting each year from all across the globe.
One such activity is a hot air balloon ride overlooking the vast expanse of the land covering palaces, forts, and lakes with the Aravalli hills in the backdrops. There is nothing quite like it. The absolute peace of immense panoramas, subdued colors and crisp fresh air and the pervasive touch of something wild as the balloons float you silently above it all “like a dream come true”. Sounds fascinating, isn’t it? If you are any adventure seeker, then adding the hot air balloon ride in Jaipur to your India travel check ist is a must!
5. Skiing in Winter Wonderland of India
If you don’t already know, I am talking about Auli, a quaint little town at a height of 2500 – 3050 mts above sea level in Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. Its snow-white mountains engulfed in oak fringed slopes and coniferous forests offers extensive opportunities to both skilled as well as beginner skiers. Auli has quickly emerged as one of the best destinations for skiing in India.
Winters of Auli is the best time to visit for the adventure lovers. Starting from late November till the end of March, the winters cover the mountains of Auli with blankets of snow. Particularly the month of January is highly fit for skiing as it receives the maximum amount of snowfall. During this time, many ski festivals are organized annually to bring this sport to the limelight.
Not only that, Auli has two rope-way rides – the longest of two is Joshimath-Auli-Gondola and a much shorter ride from GMNV to Auli (880 m). If you are a sports lover then I will urge you to add skiing in Auli to your India bucket list.
So what are you waiting for? Visit Auli as Warren Miller once said, “A pair of skis are the ultimate transportation of freedom.”
6. Fancy a luxurious train ride in India? By Olga of Dreamsinheels.
One of the most magical adventures I had during my travels, was during my first visit to India. It was an experience of traveling in style, being aboard one of India’s top luxury trains, the Deccan Odyssey.
The Deccan Odyssey should definitely be added to your bucket list of amazing things to do in India. India is so magical but exploring it for 8 days aboard a royal train, with great food, a personal butler, stops along the way with a mix of well known and off the beaten path destinations was just a “wow” experience that’s unmatched to date.
It all started in Mumbai, and from there the train stopped along the way at many UNESCO world heritage sites, caves, palace to meet and greet a queen, to beaches, plantations, so many places to see the spectacular architecture, to learn tons about their history, traditions, culture and even fashion. Furthermore, there was lots of food to try and we even explored the wine capital of India – Nashik.
Got your attention, right? Then read the full itinerary and journey aboard one of the top luxury trains in Asia, and the most luxurious train in India, the Deccan Odyssey.
7. Yoga & Meditation Retreats in Auroville By Erika of Erika’s Travelventures
There’s a unique town outside of Pondicherry in Tamil Nadu that is home to an experience that can’t be missed on your Indian bucket list: Auroville. Auroville is an experimental township that is focused on encouraging human unity over religion, money, and ethnicity. It’s home to people from all around the world and is a place to discover new theories and research behind meditation, yoga, sustainable energy, organic farming, and natural building.
The center of Auroville is Matrimandir, ‘soul of the city’. It is an incredible experience also called “The Loudest Silence You Ever Heard” by Indian Nat Geo Traveller. After making a reservation at Auroville’s visitor center, you can go to meditate in the Matrimandir’s center chamber.
Whether you’re looking for peace of mind, a unique place to meditate, or you just want to learn about alternative living, Auroville and its Matrimandir is an amazing place to visit in India.
8. Indulge in a Submarine ride in the Island of Andaman
Andaman’s marine life and coral reefs are a well-known tourist attraction, bringing in scores of people from India and all over the world to see. The latest addition to the island of Andaman is a first of its kind Coral Safari, which is a semi-submarine that will take you for an expedition in the deep blue sea. Its 100-seater cabin, lets you view the underwater marine lives and colorful coral reefs through huge glass windows inclined at 45 degrees, providing you an experience of a lifetime.
The one-hour underwater trip begins at the North Bay island where you board the semi-submarine, costing Rs 1850 for adults and Rs 1350 for children under the age of 2 years.
The vessel MV Sea Shine, designed by USA’s Subsea Systems is built with adequate safety features which makes it sink proof and is designed in a way to cater to all age groups. The Coral Safari should definitely be added to your bucket list of amazing things to do in the islands of Andaman and Nicobar.
9. Can you finish this Kumbhakaran Thali single-handedly?
Any takers for the challenge? Aaoji Khaoji, a pure vegetarian restaurant of Pune is making this jumbo thalli for people with huge appetites for quite some time now. The Kumbhakaran thalli is an amalgamation of sweet and savories that will make your taste buds explode and leave you craving for some more. This thalli is named after one of the younger brothers of King Ravaana of the Hindu legends of Ramayana. He was given a boon to sleep for six months and to eat indiscriminately for the next six months.
This jumbo thalli will cost you Rs 2000 and includes two types of dal, eight types of special main course dishes, three types of delicious desserts, two types of rice, five lachha paratha, four papads, raita and a bowlful of butter along with pickle & salad. To finish this off, a huge dry fruit lassi glass comes along with the jumbo thalli.
If you are up for the challenge, then don’t forget to try Kumbhakaran thalli and feel a royal welcome in India.
10. Indulge in Sky Dining in India
We all love to explore new places for dinner and what better way to create a dreamy ambiance for your meal other than having your meal suspended in mid-air by a crane at one of India’s first Sky or should I say Fly Dining restaurants brought to us by JumpKing.
Enjoying the view of Nagawara Lake and the Karle township in tranquility and gorging on some delicious food from a table of 22, hung up by a crane 160 ft above the ground, can be a dream come true (unless you are afraid of height).
This once in a lifetime experience, can cost you INR 6,999 per person for a set menu of drinks and food and INR 3,999 for only a mocktail and starters between 4 PM and 11 PM, in 45-minute slots. This could be a perfect change from your on-ground restaurant meals
Update: Unfortunately, the Fly dining restaurant in Bangalore has closed until further notice. But they have opened a new branch at Gardens Galleria Mall, Noida.
11. How many flavors of Rasgolla have you tasted?
Coming to India and not tasting a single piece of sweet. How can I let that happen? You might have already researched and known that India is like a ‘Sweet Heaven’. You can get all kinds of sweets – fried, dipped in sugar syrup, vegan. But let me introduce you to one of my favorites – Rasgolla. I like everything about it. It’s sweetness, fluffiness, juicy texture. Just thinking about it, brought back sweet memories of my childhood.
So, when I found out a Kolkata based entrepreneur has given a new spin to our age-old favorite sweet dish and has created 250 different types of flavored Rasgolla, I had to try some, only after which I have included it in this bucket list. She specializes in Indian sweets that she sells under her brand ‘Swati’s Flavours Of Rasgolla’ at 12 London Street, Elgin Road.
She came up with insane and mind-boggling flavors that are absolutely delicious to taste and made from fresh fruits. From fruity flavors like Strawberry, Black Currant, Raspberry, Green Apple, Orange, Blueberry to offbeat ones like Gundi Paan shot, Cappuccino, Jeera, Green chili, among others.
12. Visit the Indian International Cherry Blossoms Festival in Shillong
Yes, you read it right. You don’t have to travel all the way to Japan to see beautiful cherry blossoms, you can enjoy them in Shillong, the ‘Scotland of East’. Every year, at the onset of winters, Shillong, the capital city of Meghalaya, is painted pink and white by the full-bloomed Cherry blossom trees adding more charm to the picturesque city.
The first cherry blossom sapling was planted by the Chief Minister of Meghalaya which gradually paved the path for 2000 more, planted by the state forest department. Every November, the Indian International Cherry Blossoms festival is held to celebrate the full blooms with a ton of community events like music concerts, beauty pageants, arts and craft market showcasing the local traditions and skillsets.
The Indian International Cherry Blossoms festival is quite unique as the cherry blossom trees bloom in the month of November in India unlike other countries, where they bloom in months from March till June. The highlight of the festival is the guided night walks under illuminated cherry blossoms which are magical, to say the least.
13. Watch Famous Traditional Art Form: Kalaripayattu in Kerala
Kalaripayattu is one of the ancient traditional martial art forms, originated from God’s own country, Kerala. It is considered the most scientific type of martial art form in the world and can only be performed by well-trained artists who possess the unique skills required to withstand the training.
Combat training is usually undertaken only at a professional training school known as Kalari. Once all the basic moves are mastered, students are given lessons in using weapons like spears, maces, daggers, swords, bow, and arrow, etc. Kalaripayattu training aims to help the performer eventually gain co-ordination of the mind and body. So, some of the traditional centers include training in native medical practices too.
Performers show a variety of styles with incredible strength and agility to captivate the audience. While it was originally practiced in many parts of South India as training for combat, it now serves as a popular form of entertainment in Kerala. There are several places in Kerala where you can experience the beauty and valor of Kalaripayattu in all its original glory.
14. Enjoy a relaxing ride in Shikara in Srinagar
A dreamland for everyone who has been yearning for some relaxing moments amidst the breath-taking vista of nature, Kashmir undeniably comes out on top. And Srinagar is the perfect place to start your trip.
Dotted with numerous beautiful sights, the city looks astounding in a canopy of landscaped flowering gardens, crystal clear lakes, superb edifices, and bustling market. Amidst this colorful world lies one of the mesmerizing attractions of the city, the small wooden carved boats known as Shikara.
Shikara rides in Kashmir are one of the most captivating facets of Jammu and Kashmir tourism. A relaxing ride while enjoying the calming surrounding views around Dal Lake and Nagin Lake is truly a valuable pleasure. Shikara boat rides are also used for sightseeing nearby attractions that are close to Dal Lake like Nishat Garden, Shalimar Garden and the Hazratbal Mosque.
15. Experience India’s First Floating Resort
If you were dreaming about visiting the water resorts in the Maldives, then now you can indulge in a similar experience at The Aquatic island resort in Kumbalangi village which is close to the city of Kochi. The Aquatic island resort consists of 5 luxurious floating villas with a total of 10 aesthetically designed rooms with the bedrooms submerged underwater, providing you a splendid view of the marine life. Equipped with modern amenities, you will be surrounded by the lush greenery of mangroves and tall imposing coconut and palm trees against scenic backwaters.
However, the gorgeous views around aren’t the only highlight of your stay here as the resort offers you a variety of things to indulge in, including visiting Kumbalangi village which is known for its rural beauty. However, if a staycation is what you have in mind, then the resort’s infinity pool is perfect for a leisurely dip. With facilities like a spa, yoga, tennis and cooking workshops, the resort ensures you have a relaxing stay.
The resort is easily accessible from Kochi which has the nearest airport and railway station and only 18 km away. It is well connected from Coimbatore (200 km), Calicut (203 km), Trivandrum (215 km) or Madurai (270 km).
These are some of the travel experiences that you shouldn’t miss making your holiday in India memorable. Apart from these activities/experiences, you should definitely check out India’s various UNESCO heritage sites. I will keep on adding to this ever-growing bucket list, so stay tuned to my site. If you have done any of these activities in India, don’t feel shy to share them with me in the comments below!
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Merrie Rodriguez August 21, 2019
Omg!! The igloos and the “glamming” look like so much fun!! I didn’t know you could do a lot of these things in India!
Anwesha Guha August 21, 2019
There are always new things popping up so I made this bucket list!
Katie Hughes August 21, 2019
Excellent list! I actually did the Jaipur hot air balloon ride when I visited India for the first time in April! So now I’ve pinned this post to know what I should do for when I next visit – thanks!
Anwesha Guha August 21, 2019
How was you hot air balloon ride? Tell me more about your experience.
Chris August 21, 2019
What a variety of awesome activities. I think the igloo hotel is amazing!
Anwesha Guha August 21, 2019
I also loved the Igloo concept. I am really excited to try it.
Disha Smith August 21, 2019
Great post and excellent suggestions! I’m actually going to India in a few months so this post was really helpful for planning my trip there. I had no idea that India had an igloo hotel. I am definitely going to have to do the hot air balloon ride.
Anwesha Guha August 21, 2019
I am glad Disha, that this post was helpful for you. Don’t forget to pin it for later.
Joella August 21, 2019
These are all such amazing experiences. I never associated india with snow so was really surprised to see the igloos. But I think what attracts me the most is the balloon ride and trying those amazing sweets. That right there sold me to visit
Cris F. August 23, 2019
What an amazing variety of things to do in India! I had no idea there were those winter activities, though really, it makes sense…mountains and all, lol. I think my first on the bucket list would be the camel safari and the Sufi songs. Those look so wonderful!
Gabby September 2, 2019
You always hear how hot it is in India so I never thought there’d be snow! Really enjoyed reading this – so many Indian adventures 🙂
Anwesha Guha January 24, 2020
You must visit Auli, Tawang or Darjeeling to experience snow in India.
Ann September 2, 2019
India has always been on my bucketlist, I so so need to go there. Its not just on my bucketlist, its on my need to do list 🙂
Thanks for a great read, I really enjoyed it 🙂 And special creds for the stunning images!
Anwesha Guha September 2, 2019
Ah! Thanks. 🙂
Lauren Korstrom September 3, 2019
This is great! I just dont think of snow when I think of India! I would love to stay in the igloo and the camel ride would be cool– Im guessing riding camels is considered ethical..? Great post and great ideas!
Narinder Bhatia September 12, 2019
Compliments to you on compiling such an “all-encompassing” post. I am pleasantly surprised at the variety that exists in India. To be true, I haven’t tried about 80 percent of the stuff captured by you in your post. Amazing compilation by you. In my bucket list, I have now included Igloo, Auroville, and Thaali 🙂
Thanks for the beautiful post 🙂
Dr.Amrita Basu September 13, 2019
Igloo and the Deccan Odyssey is going to happen soon. But really the world is on my bucket list too and I loved reading this post.
Sandra // BlueMarble Vagabonds May 16, 2020
Wow, I didn’t know we can go skiing in India as well, how cool! 😀
Sharon May 16, 2020
Fascinating! I wish I had read this before I went to India. I may have to go back. Thank you for the info.
Margarida Vasconcelos May 16, 2020
I prefer more meaningful experiences with local people and activities that allow me to give back. I didn’t know about cherry blossoms in India, thanks for sharing.
Yvette @Yvettheworld May 16, 2020
Definitely loving all these quirky, off-the-beaten-track India travel tips. Especially the igloo hotel and the luxury train seem like something I’d love to do 🙂
Anwesha Guha May 17, 2020
I am glad that you found something you would give a try in India. I hope you make your trip to India soon when everything is back to normal.
Ashley May 17, 2020
I love your list of Indian adventures. I had no idea that India had so many fun things to offer. My husband would love to go to India but I’ve been the one to say no. But after seeing your list, I think I could actually enjoy this awesome country!
Anwesha Guha May 17, 2020
I am glad that my post was helpful to you, Ashley. India has many more cool and quirky things to do, which I just haven’t added to the bucket list yet.
Arabela September 5, 2020
Beautiful! I’d love to visit the Andaman Island!
Cosette September 5, 2020
That’s a great list, would love to do a number of these experiences, next to the bucket list sites, when I visit India.
Anna September 6, 2020
Woah, these are awesome! I’ve been to Jaisalmer & the Thar desert but everything else was new to me. I’m especially interested now in taking the Deccan Odyssey trip someday.
Sue September 6, 2020
There are some great experiences here that I wasn’t even aware of! It’s been many years since I visited India but I am always looking for reasons to go back & explore more. I particularly love the idea of the train ride & a hot air balloon experience has been on my list for a long time. Thanks for sharing – it’s always good to have a few different things to the norm added to your itinerary.
Krista December 19, 2020
I love finding unique things to do while I’ve travelling, and staying in that igloo would be right up there on my list! Love this guide that you’ve put together.
Taylor December 19, 2020
All of these experiences look amazing! I didn’t thought India had all of this. Now I really cannot wait to go one day. 🙂
Amanda December 19, 2020
These are all such good ideas! I had no idea India had so many wintery adventures to offer either.