India
Overview: A compilation of locations to visit in India
Duration: 1-2 days in each location
Locations visited: Agra, Udaipur, Shimla, Kochi
How to get there: Fly into Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) or Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport Mumbai (BOM)
How to get around: FLY (do not drive) to as many locations as possible. Have hotels arrange transportation in hotel owned cars to and from the airports and to attractions.
When to go: Spring and late winter are the best. The summer is too hot, and there’s a significant increase in air population near the end of the year.
Pace: Relaxed
Future trips: Jaipur, Goa, Amritsar, Jodhpur, Ladakh, Mumbiai, Hampi, Kodagu, Darjeeling
In Udaipur, the “City of Lakes”
India Overview
Before diving into different regions and attractions, here are a few overall notes about traveling to India as a female American tourist.
Driving: Driving in India can be a unique experience compared to the United States or Europe. Roads are often poorly maintained, traffic can be chaotic, and safety standards are less consistent. Many cars—unless specifically requested as luxury (European or American branded)—may lack common safety features like seat belts and airbags. To minimize driving, I highly recommend flying between destinations whenever possible. For unavoidable car travel, arrange transportation through your hotel, confirm the car’s make and model in advance, and prioritize comfort and safety. While Ubers are available, their car quality may vary, and taxis can sometimes attempt to overcharge tourists.
Language: While English is one of India’s official languages due to British influence, Hindi is the most widely spoken language. Outside of hotels, urban centers, or interactions with upper- and middle-class individuals, you may encounter varying levels of English fluency. This is something to keep in mind when navigating services like taxis or Ubers.
Food Labeling System: One of the highlights of traveling in India, especially for vegetarians, is the clear and consistent food labeling system. Vegetarian items are marked with a green dot, while non-vegetarian items are labeled with a red dot or triangle. As a vegetarian, I found the abundance of options and labeling incredibly helpful. Even global chains like McDonald’s offer vegetarian menus tailored to local tastes.
Income Disparity: India’s socioeconomic disparities can be more visible than in many Western countries. It’s common to see extreme poverty alongside wealthier communities, and cultural attitudes toward house help or low-paying jobs may feel unfamiliar. While this can be jarring, it’s an integral part of understanding the country’s social fabric and economy.
Hotel Quality: Hotel standards in India can vary significantly compared to the U.S. or Europe. A two- or three-star hotel may not match the expectations of its Western counterparts, so I recommend booking accommodations that are 1–1.5 stars higher than you normally would for a comparable experience. That being said, India’s luxury hotels—such as those operated by Oberoi, Taj, and Leela Palace—are exceptional and offer world-class service and amenities.
Being Female: As a female traveler, India was one of the few places where I felt it was necessary to avoid being alone in public, even during the day. This is not to say that every part of India is unsafe, but as a tourist, especially one who does not look Indian, unwanted attention can be a concern. Taking precautions, like traveling with a group or arranging for trusted transportation through your hotel, can go a long way in ensuring a more comfortable experience.
Agra, Uttar Pradesh
Agra, located on the banks of the Yamuna River, is one of India’s most visited destinations, as it is home to the iconic Taj Mahal. Once the capital of the Mughal Empire, Agra still showcases remarkable architecture from that period.
Agra’s most famous attraction is, of course, the Taj Mahal. A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Taj Mahal was built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife and was completed in 1653. Constructed from white Makrana marble, the mausoleum takes on different hues depending on the time of day—pinkish at sunrise, bright white during the day, and golden under the moonlight. Visiting around sunrise is highly recommended to experience its changing colors and to avoid the heaviest crowds. The Taj Mahal is a masterpiece of Persian, Islamic, and Indian architectural styles. With its strong Islamic influence, much of the structure and its surrounding gardens are perfectly symmetrical.
The second most famous attraction in Agra is the Agra Fort, constructed in the 16th century by Emperor Akbar. Initially a military stronghold, it later became a royal palace. Spread across 94 acres, the fort is an impressive blend of red sandstone and white marble, surrounded by 70-foot-high walls and a moat. Of the fort's two gates, only one is currently in use. Most visitors spend 1–2 hours exploring its historic grounds.
If you have extra time, consider visiting these nearby attractions:
Itimad-ud-Daulah (Baby Taj): Often considered a precursor to the Taj Mahal, featuring exquisite inlay work.
Akbar’s Tomb (Sikandra): A stunning blend of Islamic, Hindu, Buddhist, and Christian architectural styles.
Jama Masjid: A historic mosque built in 1648.
Fatehpur Sikri: Located about 40 km from Agra, this UNESCO World Heritage Site was the short-lived capital of the Mughal Empire and is a must-see for history enthusiasts.
Agra is easily accessible, with its own airport (AGR) and a roughly 4-hour drive from Delhi.
Taj Mahal:
Red Fort:
Udaipur, Rajasthan
Udaipur, located in the Aravalli Hills of Rajasthan, is often called the “City of Lakes.” Many of its hotels and restaurants are situated on or near its lakes, creating a picturesque setting. The Maharana Pratap Airport (UDR) is the best airport to fly into for a visit.
While enjoying the scenery is peaceful enough, we spent some time exploring City Palace and taking a boat ride around Lake Pichola. City Palace, located on the banks of Lake Pichola, is a stunning blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture. Inside, the City Palace Museum showcases royal artifacts, paintings, and weapons, along with offering panoramic views of the city and lakes.
Lake Pichola is one of the region’s most iconic lakes, surrounded by hotels and palaces. From the water, you can see City Palace, Lake Palace (now a luxury hotel operated by Taj Hotels), and Jag Mandir. Depending on the boat ride, you may have the chance to stop at Jag Mandir, a beautiful island palace believed to have inspired the design of the Taj Mahal. It features intricate marble carvings and lush gardens.
We also had the opportunity to watch a traditional dance performance at our hotel.
If you have additional time, consider exploring:
Saheliyon Ki Bari (Garden of the Maidens): A peaceful garden with fountains, lotus pools, marble pavilions, and sculptures.
Fateh Sagar Lake: Another scenic lake with Nehru Park, a famous island featuring a boat-shaped restaurant and a small zoo.
Monsoon Palace (Sajjangarh Palace): A hilltop palace offering panoramic views of Udaipur and the Aravalli Hills, especially stunning at sunset.
Bagore Ki Haveli: A historic mansion turned museum that showcases Rajasthani culture, costumes, and art.
Jagdish Temple: A grand temple with intricate carvings and a towering spire, built in the Indo-Aryan architectural style.
Haldighati: A historic site commemorating the battle between Maharana Pratap and Mughal Emperor Akbar’s forces, now home to a museum.
Udaipur’s royal charm, scenic beauty, and rich heritage make it one of the must-visit destinations in India.
Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
Shimla, nestled in the Himalayan foothills, is often referred to as the “Queen of the Hills.” Once the summer capital of British India, the town retains a strong colonial influence in its design and architectural style, with parts of it feeling reminiscent of Europe. Some of the top places to visit in Shimla include:
Viceregal Lodge (Rashtrapati Niwas): Originally the residence of the British Viceroy, this historic lodge is now an educational institute, and its grounds are open for exploration.
Christ Church: A neo-Gothic church built in 1857, it is one of the oldest churches in North India.
Mall Road: The main pedestrian street in Shimla, lined with shops and food vendors.
The Ridge: A central street in the heart of Shimla with stunning views of the surrounding mountains, as well as shops, restaurants, and colonial-era buildings.
Shimla is a delightful blend of natural beauty, colonial heritage, and vibrant local culture. It’s perfect for leisurely exploration, especially for those who enjoy walking and soaking in the fresh mountain air.
If you have extra time, consider visiting:
Tara Devi Temple: Located about 11 km from Shimla, this temple offers panoramic views of the mountains.
Annadale: A picturesque meadow that is home to an Army Museum.
Kalka-Shimla Railway: A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring a narrow-gauge railway that winds through the mountains.
Green Valley: A scenic spot perfect for photography.
Jakhoo Temple: A hilltop temple in Shimla offering fantastic views of the surrounding area.
A Note About Getting to Shimla
The drive to Shimla can be precarious and nerve-racking, as much of the road into the mountains is a narrow two-lane highway with steep cliffs on one side. Many stretches lack guardrails, even on hairpin turns, and cars often pass each other—even on blind curves. The journey up and down the mountain isn’t for the faint of heart or for those accustomed to the driving standards of the US or Europe.
Kochi (Cochin), Kerala
Kochi, often referred to as the “Queen of the Arabian Sea,” is located on the southwest coast of India and has been a major hub for history, culture, and trade for centuries. It is one of the few parts of India influenced by both the Dutch and Portuguese, who established settlements in the area during the 1500s until British rule began in 1814. As a result, Kerala has a much larger Christian and Jewish presence than much of the rest of India, reflected in its multitude of religious buildings. Given its coastal location and cultural heritage, the cuisine is more seafood- and meat-focused than in other parts of India.
While in Kochi, we spent a day taking a backwater cruise in the surrounding area. Backwaters refer to rivers that flow in from the sea, as opposed to rivers that flow out to the sea like most rivers worldwide. During the cruise, we stopped by rice paddies and enjoyed local dishes served onboard. While we opted for a half-day cruise, longer and overnight cruises are also available.
If you have additional time, here are some other places to explore:
Fort Kochi: A historic neighborhood featuring St. Francis Church and Santa Cruz Basilica.
Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace): A palace with murals depicting scenes from Hindu epics.
Jew Town and Paradesi Synagogue: A fascinating area showcasing the region’s Jewish heritage.
Bolgatty Palace: A Dutch-built palace that has been converted into a hotel.
Hill Palace Museum: A former royal palace that is now a museum featuring royal artifacts, jewelry, and traditional Kerala architecture.
Vypeen Island: Home to Pallipuram Fort and several beaches.
Cherai Beach: Another popular beach nearby.
Marine Drive: A scenic promenade offering views of the Rainbow Bridge.
Kochi is a captivating blend of history, modernity, and natural beauty. It’s perfect for travelers looking to immerse themselves in Kerala’s culture while enjoying scenic coastal views and a relaxed pace.
To reach Kochi, fly into the nearby Cochin International Airport (COK).
