India, a land of diverse landscapes, rich cultures, and captivating histories, beckons travellers from around the world to embark on unforgettable journeys. With the power of modern technology and innovative travel platforms like MakeMyTrip, experiencing the magic of India has never been more accessible. By leveraging MakeMyTrip’s exclusive coupon codes and deals, you can embark on a budget-friendly adventure to some of the country’s most remarkable destinations. In this article, we’ll take you on a virtual tour of the top 10 places to visit in India at an affordable price. Get ready to explore the enchanting corners of India without worrying about your wallet!
- Jaipur, Rajasthan
Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, is a great place to visit that doesn’t cost a lot of money. It’s called the “Pink City” because its buildings are pink like roses. Jaipur has a lot of old stories, traditions, and amazing buildings to see.
Places to Visist
- Amber Fort: A historic fort on a hill with amazing views and beautiful palaces to explore.
- Hawa Mahal: An interesting palace with lots of small windows to see the city from.
- City Palace: A big palace that shows what life was like for kings, and it has cool museums too.
- Jantar Mantar: A place with big old instruments to learn about stars and time in the past.
- Nahargarh Fort: A fort on a hill with great sunset views and a peaceful atmosphere.
- Chokhi Dhani: An ethnic village resort that offers a taste of traditional Rajasthani culture, including folk performances and local cuisine.
Things to do
- Shop at Johari Bazaar and Bapu Bazaar: Dive into the vibrant markets of Jaipur where you can shop for colorful textiles, jewelry, handicrafts, and more.
- Hot Air Balloon Ride: Soar above Jaipur’s landmarks and enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the city’s architecture and landscapes.
- Attend a Rajasthani Folk Performance: Enjoy vibrant dances, live music, and colorful costumes that showcase the region’s artistic heritage.
- Visit Jaipur Zoo: It houses a variety of animals, including some indigenous to the region.
- Explore Albert Hall in the Evening: The architectural charm of the building is enhanced by its night lighting, providing a different ambiance than during the daytime.
- Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Varanasi, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, is a spiritual and cultural hub on the banks of the Ganges River. Witness the mesmerising Ganga Aarti ceremony, stroll through narrow alleys, and explore the numerous temples that dot the city’s landscape.
Places to Visit:
- Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Visit one of the holiest temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. It’s a place of deep spiritual significance for Hindus.
- Ghats along River Ganges: Take a walk along the ghats (steps leading to the river) and witness various rituals and ceremonies,
- Assi Ghat: Relax at this ghat where the river Assi meets the Ganges, offering a quieter atmosphere for reflection.
- Durga Temple: Visit this colorful temple dedicated to Goddess Durga, known for its vibrant red color and architectural beauty.
- Sarnath: A very old place where Buddha talked for the first time. There are old things called stupas and it’s quiet and peaceful there.
Things to do:
- Boat Ride on Ganges: Take a boat ride on the river to see the city and the beautiful ghats from the water.
- Try Street Food: Try local favorites like kachori, chaat, lassi, and malaiyyo (a frothy dessert).
- Shopping at Varanasi Bazaars: Explore the bustling bazaars for traditional Banarasi silk sarees, intricate jewelry, handicrafts, and artifacts.
- Attend Cultural Workshops: Learn traditional music, dance, and crafts to connect with Varanasi’s artistry.
- Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, Rishikesh is a haven for spirituality and adventure. Attend yoga and meditation sessions, witness the Ganga Aarti, and indulge in thrilling activities like white-water rafting and trekking.
Places to Visit:
- Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula: Walk on these suspension bridges that cross the river, giving you great views of the surroundings.
- Triveni Ghat: This is a sacred bathing spot where pilgrims take a dip in the confluence of three holy rivers: Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati. The evening Ganga Aarti (prayer ritual) here is a beautiful sight.
- Tera Manzil Temple: Also known as Trayambakeshwar Temple, it’s a multi-story temple located near Laxman Jhula.
- Kunjapuri Devi Temple: Situated on a hilltop, this temple offers panoramic views of the Himalayan mountains and the Ganges.
- Geeta Bhawan: A large complex with a museum and beautiful gardens. It’s famous for its stunning paintings and sculptures depicting scenes from the Hindu epic, Mahabharata.
Things to do:
- Ghat Exploration: Walk along the ghats by the Ganges River and witness the spiritual rituals, yoga practices, and serene views of the surrounding hills.
- River Rafting Adventure: Go on an exciting adventure of riding a boat on the fast-moving water of the Ganges River.
- Yoga and Meditation: Join yoga and meditation classes offered by various ashrams and centers to find inner peace and rejuvenation.
- Adventure Sports: Engage in activities like zip-lining, bungee jumping, and hiking for an adrenaline rush amid the natural beauty.
- Kochi, Kerala
Kochi’s blend of history, culture, and natural beauty is captivating. Explore the historic Fort Kochi area with its colonial architecture, Chinese fishing nets, and St. Francis Church. Witness a Kathakali dance performance and take a serene backwater cruise.
Places to visit:
- Fort Kochi: This historic area is known for its colonial architecture, art galleries, and cultural fusion.
- Hill Palace Museum: A former royal residence that has been converted into a museum displaying artifacts, paintings, and sculptures.
- Bolgatty Palace: Enjoy the scenic beauty of this island palace, which now operates as a heritage.
- Cherai Beach: Relax on the sandy shores of this beautiful beach that’s located a short drive from the city.
- Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary: A green oasis in the city that’s home to various bird species.
Things to do:
- Boat Ride in Backwaters: Enjoy a boat ride through the calm and scenic backwaters, surrounded by lush greenery.
- Bhoothathankettu Dam: Located a bit outside Kochi, this dam and its surroundings offer a great place for picnics and nature walks.
- Witness Chinese Fishing Nets: Visit the iconic Chinese fishing nets along the coast of Fort Kochi and observe the unique traditional fishing technique.
- Amritsar, Punjab
Amritsar is a spiritual and cultural gem, home to the iconic Golden Temple. Witness the Palki Sahib ceremony and savour langar (community meal) at the temple. Jallianwala Bagh and the Wagah Border ceremony are also significant experiences.
Places to visit:
- Golden Temple: Visit the iconic Harmandir Sahib, a beautiful golden temple that holds immense spiritual significance for Sikhs and welcomes visitors of all backgrounds.
- Jallianwala Bagh: Pay tribute to the past at this memorial garden, which commemorates the tragic events of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre during India’s struggle for independence.
- Ram Bagh Garden: Enjoy a peaceful stroll in this historic garden that features a museum showcasing artifacts related to Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
- Mata Lal Devi Temple: Visit the temple dedicated to the goddess of snakes, known for its unique interiors and snake motifs.
- Gobindgarh Fort: Explore this historic fort that offers insights into Amritsar’s history through various exhibitions, museums, and cultural performances.
Things to do:
- Try Amritsari Street Food: Indulge in local specialties like Amritsari kulcha, chole bhature, and various types of lassi.
- Take a Heritage Walk: Join guided heritage walks to explore the city’s historic lanes, bazaars, and landmarks, and learn about its rich cultural heritage.
- Sample Traditional Sweets: Amritsar is known for its delightful sweets like pinni, gulab jamun, and jalebi. Don’t miss the opportunity to indulge your sweet tooth.
- Experience Amritsari Culture: Look out for cultural performances, folk dances, and music events that showcase the vibrant culture of Punjab.
- Explore Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum: Discover artifacts, paintings, and weapons related to the life and times of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the founder of the Sikh Empire.
Conclusion:
Travelling in India doesn’t have to break the bank. These 10 cities offer an abundance of cultural experiences, historical landmarks, and natural beauty, all at an affordable price. Whether you’re captivated by history, spirituality, or breathtaking landscapes, these cities have something special to offer every budget-conscious traveller. So pack your bags, immerse yourself in India’s vibrant tapestry, and create memories that will last a lifetime.