India is a country with a huge amount to offer the average tourist. Over thousands of years, this part of the world has made myriad contributions to art, history, and culture – and you can explore much of that if you should decide to visit.

The country occupies the greater part of South Asia. Most people recognize India as over-crowded, with roughly one-sixth of the world’s total population, it’s true India is the second-most populous country, after China. Traveling to India might seem like a crazy idea; the country’s size, geography, and the sheer number of people can test even the most experienced of travelers.

But even if India might not be the most obvious family holiday choice, it’s a magical, eye-opening destination for kids and adults alike. Filled with incredible sights, beautiful landscapes, fun activities, fantastic food, and much more.

Let’s take a look at ten different reasons you might want to do just that!

The Taj Mahal

Arguably one of the most famous buildings anywhere in the world, the Taj Mahal sits at the top of many bucket lists. Built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, the Mausoleum attracts millions of visitors each year. If you’re visiting the country, you should make sure that you’re one of them.

Photo by Sylwia Bartyzel on Unsplash

Indian food

UK residents might think that they’re familiar with Indian food – but the stuff you’ll be served in India is vastly different from that which you might enjoy at your local curry-house. Plus, you’ll get different food depending on the region you’re visiting. This is a great reason to go on one of the guided India tours available. Just watch out for Dehli Belly.

Religion and spirituality

You can’t really go to India without being exposed to the religious side of life. India is a very spiritual country. It has no official religion, but more than 80 percent of Indians are Hindu. If you want to embrace this sort of thing with yoga and meditation, you might well enjoy a holiday unlike any you’ve experienced before.

The people

The culture in India is quite hospitable, which means you’ll get a warm welcome from everyone you meet.

Architecture

While the Taj Mahal might be the most impressive example, India is bristling with world heritage sites – many of which aren’t quite so crowded with tourists. With thousands of years of history to draw from, it’s no wonder. Speaking of which…

History

Leaving to one side the buildings you’ll be seeing, India is packed with historical sites and landmarks. If you’re interested in the past, then you should make time to see a few of them. India’s earliest known civilization arose about 5,000 years ago on the Indus River in what is now Pakistan. Archaeologists uncovered the remains of two huge cities with brick houses, piped water, and sewer systems. Nobody knows why, but these cities, called Harappa and Mohenjo Daro, were abandoned in 1700 B.C.

The Ganges

The most famous river in the country is a place of special significance, religiously. Even if you’re not arriving during a religious festival, it’s worth making time to take in the river.

Photo by MIDHUN GEORGE on Unsplash

The City

India has a famously hectic, bustling city life. If you want a really authentic Indian experience, then heading out to shop with the locals is a must.

The Wildlife

India’s varied climate zones support about 65,000 animal species, including elephants, pythons, river dolphins, and rhinos. It is the only country in the world with both lions and tigers. As you might expect given the sheer size of the country, there are plenty of wild animals to spot – especially in the north of the country. Make a list of national parks, and see which you can fit into your trip.

The Beaches

Most of India forms a peninsula, which means it is surrounded by water on three sides. While the idea of a beach holiday might not be the first thing you associate with India, the country is home to around seven thousand kilometres of coastline – if you’re near the sea, then why not pay it a visit?