India is home to one of the oldest civilizations on Earth. More than five thousand years ago, the culture from which modern-day India emerged originated on the banks of the Indus River. Since then, the country has been ruled by various dynasties, whose reigns lasted from a few decades to several centuries. India combines unique cultural traditions, numerous religions, colorful festivals, impressive architecture, extraordinary landscapes, and exotic cuisine. Its landscapes are extremely diverse: snow-capped Himalayan peaks, sun-drenched tropical beaches, and dense evergreen forests. Sacred sites and a wealth of impressive rituals tell of the country’s rich religious history. The cuisine of India is a chapter of its own, as every state has its own traditions and recipes.
India is located in South Asia and covers an area of more than three million square kilometers. It is washed by the Arabian Sea in the west and the Bay of Bengal in the east. The country borders Bangladesh, Myanmar, Bhutan, China, Nepal, and Pakistan. In addition, several island groups belong to India. Two major rivers cross the country: the Indus and the Ganges.
India’s nature is exotic and diverse. Lush tropical vegetation combined with a colorful variety of flora and fauna, white and golden beaches, the high regions of the Himalayas, and the river valleys leave a strong impression on travelers from Europe.
There are more than 460 museums in India. Among the most significant are the Government Museum and the National Gallery of Art in Chennai, the National Museum in New Delhi, the Sarnath Museum in Varanasi, the Indian Museum in Kolkata, and the Birla Industrial & Technological Museum. The Museum of Western India is located in Mumbai.
The Himalayas, the largest mountain system in the world, are one of India’s greatest treasures. Here you will find the highest point on Earth, the famous Valley of Flowers, evergreen hills, and numerous waterfalls.
In the state of Rajasthan, visitors can expect the silent world of the desert with magnificent palaces and temples, colorful festivals, and fairytale hotels.
Mumbai is, for many, the gateway to India. The energy of this bustling metropolis surprises every visitor. On the west side of the country, Goa is the most popular travel destination, with more than a hundred kilometers of magnificent beaches, ideal for a vacation at any time of the year.
The climate of India varies greatly due to the size of the country and its diverse topography. In the far south, there is a humid equatorial climate, in the center a continental climate, and in the Himalayas a cool highland climate. Temperatures fluctuate between 12–23 degrees Celsius from January to December and reach 35–45 degrees from June to September, when the summer monsoon brings rain.
The official language is Hindi, and there are hundreds of dialects. English is widely spoken, especially in Goa and the major cities.
Religiously, about 83 percent of the population are Hindus, 12 percent are Muslims, and the rest belong to Jainism, Buddhism, Sikhism, and Christianity. In Goa, about half of the inhabitants are Catholics.
Where should one travel in India?
Every visitor perceives India in their own way. Some are shocked by the contrast between great poverty and spiritual depth; others see the kindness of the people who live in harmony and peace. But one thing is certain: the beauty, elegance, and grace of this country are reflected in its history, its architecture, its clothing, and its festivals. Each region has its own distinctive atmosphere and its special flavors and impressions.
Delhi is one of the oldest and largest cities in the world and was founded about five thousand years ago. According to legend, the city has been destroyed eleven times and rebuilt just as often. Delhi is a National Capital Territory, which also includes New Delhi, the official capital of India. Both the federal government and the government of the territory are located here. The city impresses with colonial mansions, modern buildings, and a bustling city life filled with music, car horns, and voices. The scent of spices is in the air everywhere. Old Delhi is characterized by narrow, lively alleys with the spirit of the Mughal era. Among the most significant sights are the Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Park, the Jama Masjid, the Lotus Temple, the Red Fort, the Presidential Palace, and the Qutb Minar complex with the tallest minaret in the world. Anyone who wants to get to know India better should visit the National Museum, which attracts about eight million people annually.
Mumbai is the most populous city in India, a major industrial center, and a multicultural metropolis. It is located on several islands in the Arabian Sea and was not officially founded until 1672. The city was a starting point for the colonization of India by the British East India Company. Important sights include the Haji Ali Mosque, the Gateway of India, and the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Historical districts with neoclassical and neo-Gothic architecture define the cityscape. Mumbai, formerly Bombay, is considered the birthplace of Indian cinema, the first film of which appeared in 1896. There is also plenty here for relaxation – Aksa Beach, Juhu, and Chowpatty are particularly popular.
In northern India, on the banks of the Yamuna River, lies Agra with one of the most famous attractions in the world: the Taj Mahal, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. This masterpiece of Mughal architecture was built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his late wife. Other sights include Fatehpur Sikri, the Rambagh Garden, the Mausoleum of Akbar, and the Chini ka Rauza mausoleum. Agra is also home to one of India’s largest spa centers, Kaya Kalp.
Bangalore is one of the most well-known and populous cities in India. The city is famous for its temples, palaces, and parks. Important sights include the Bangalore Palace, the Sri Radha Krishna Chandra Temple, the Lalbagh Botanical Garden, and the Summer Palace of Tipu Sultan. Near the city is the dance village of Nrityagram, where young women learn the traditional Indian craft of dance.
Kolkata, called Calcutta until 2001, is the capital of the state of West Bengal. The city was founded in the 17th century and was once the capital of British India. Sights include St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Victoria Memorial, Fort William, and India’s oldest zoo.
Jaipur, also known as the “Pink City,” captivates with its pink sandstone architecture. The historic center is surrounded by a city wall. Important attractions include the City Palace, the Hawa Mahal (“Palace of the Winds”), the Amber Palace complex, the Jantar Mantar observatory, and the temple complexes of Vrindavan and Galta Ji. The city is famous for its craftsmanship and is considered the jewelry capital of India.
Goa is the smallest state in India and the country’s most famous beach destination. It is located on the Arabian Sea in southwestern India. Goa is ideal for diving, as sea turtles, rays, tuna, barracudas, and many other marine creatures live here. In addition to beautiful beaches, there are numerous historical sights and important Hindu temples such as Shantadurga, Mangesh, and Mahalasa. The Bondla, Bhagwan Mahavir, and Bhadra wildlife sanctuaries, as well as Anshi National Park, are also very popular.
What does a vacation in India mean?
A vacation in India means warm, blue waters of the Arabian Sea and fascinating landscapes. A vacation in India means a stay in a country where wishes come true. A vacation in India means high comfort and excellent service. A vacation in India means polite people and relaxation, free from haste.
03.07.2026 
