India: A Land of Contrasts and Endless Discoveries

"Namaste, India." This vibrant land, with its rich tapestry of cultures, religions, and landscapes, evokes strong emotions in those who visit. Some find themselves captivated by its chaotic charm, while others struggle to reconcile its contradictions. For me, however, India's allure proved irresistible, leading me to embark on two journeys within a mere two months.

"One trip to India is never enough," I often declare. This sentiment stems from the sheer diversity and depth of experiences India offers. From the snow-capped Himalayas to the sun-drenched beaches of Goa, from the bustling metropolises of Mumbai and Delhi to the serene backwaters of Kerala, India presents a kaleidoscope of sights, sounds, and flavors that leave an indelible mark on the soul.

My first encounter with India was a whirlwind of sensory overload. The cacophony of car horns, the pungent aroma of spices, the kaleidoscopic colors of saris, and the overwhelming crowds were both exhilarating and disorienting. Yet, amidst the chaos, I discovered a warmth and hospitality that transcended language and cultural barriers.

My second journey allowed me to delve deeper into the country's rich history and culture. I explored ancient temples, marveled at the Taj Mahal's ethereal beauty, and witnessed the vibrant Holi festival, where vibrant colors painted the streets in a joyous celebration of life.

India is a land of contrasts, where poverty and opulence coexist, where ancient traditions meet modern innovation, and where spirituality permeates every aspect of life. It is a place that challenges and transforms, leaving an imprint on the hearts and minds of those who dare to explore its depths.

For me, India is more than just a travel destination; it is an ongoing journey of discovery. Each visit unveils new facets of this complex and captivating land, leaving me yearning for more. And so, I find myself drawn back to its shores, eager to continue exploring the endless wonders that India holds.

First trip cities: Jaipur, Jodhpur, New Delhi, Agra, Lucknow, Varanasi, Sarnath, Kolkata. (20 days)
Second trip cities: Jaipur, Udaipur, Agra, Mathura & Vrindavan, New Delhi. (10 days)

  • 109 Things to Know Before You Go to India - If you know, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and travel to India..

    Travel Documents:

    • Visa: Required for all travelers. E-Visa available for USD 50.
    • Printed E-Visa and Passport: Mandatory for travel.
    • Travel Insurance: Recommended for medical emergencies and flight cancellations.
    • Flight Booking: Required for return journey, as Indian airports have strict checks.
    • Photocopies of Documents: Keep multiple copies of passport, visa, train tickets, flight tickets, and hotel bookings. Store them in email and phone for easy access.
    • Currency: Exchange Indian Rupees in advance. Carry small denominations for easier transactions.
    • Phone and SIM Card:
      • Short Trips: Use Sim2Fly.
      • Extended Trips: Purchase an Airtel SIM in India. Requires a 2x2 photo, visa and passport copies, and application form. Activation takes 3 hours.
    • Indian Railway App: Download for convenient train travel.
    • Weather Check: Research the weather conditions for your travel dates to pack appropriate clothing.




    > Clothing and miscellaneous items in the bag

  • Bag..take a backpack, it's much more comfortable, carrying it up the train station is very comfortable, I confirm!
  • Prepare your camera, battery, charging cable, memory card. If your memory card runs out, you can buy it at tourist attractions, don't worry
  • You should not wear shorts, short skirts, tank tops, spaghetti straps! You may be attacked by the eyes, I warned you.
  • Accessory Take it with you, you can really use it - hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, scarf, etc.
  • Mask is very important if you don't want to pick your nose out black TT
  • Dry/Wet Wipes - Dry/Wet Tissue Tissue is equally important
  • Small alcohol gel, you will feel relieved, such as Bath & Bodywork
  • All kinds of medicine - inhaler, wind medicine, balm - carbon, Tylenol, antihistamine, alcohol for washing wounds, plaster
  • Sleeping Bag? You don't need to take it if you don't sleep in a tent in Kashmir or Sikkim
  • Sleep Liner It is recommended to take it with you. It can be used on the train and in hotels and guesthouses if the sheets are not clean.
  • Various underwear, underwear, socks, sanitary napkins, you can buy them, it's not as difficult as you think.
  • Toiletries - If you are missing anything, you can buy it easily. It is better to prepare it.

    Indian People, Culture, and Religion

    Time has no power over the Indian people; instead, time must revolve around them.

    Religion: The majority of Indians practice Hinduism, holding deep respect and reverence for their deities.

    Language: While most Indians speak English, some only speak Hindi.

    Helpfulness: If you get lost, be prepared for an enthusiastic crowd of Indians eager to "help."

    Appearance: While facial features may seem similar across India, people from Rajasthan tend to be more cheerful than those from West Bengal.

    Selfies: Indians love taking selfies, being photographed, and requesting selfies with tourists.

    Photography Charges: During a 20-day trip, the author was constantly asked for selfies, leading to a 20 rupees per photo charge. Be prepared for numerous photo requests!

    Men's Attire: Most Indian men wear shirts and long pants.

    Women's Attire: Almost all Indian women wear colorful and vibrant saris.

    Sari Details: A sari consists of a blouse (revealing the midriff), several meters of long fabric wrapped as a skirt, and draped over the shoulder to the other side (slightly revealing the stomach).

    Married Women: Indian women who cover their hair with the sari are married.

    Mourning Attire: White or black clothing signifies mourning.

    Youth Fashion: Young Indians in New Delhi and Kolkata wear t-shirts, jeans, dresses, and sneakers.

    Tourist attractions and destinations in Jaipur:

    • Jaipur: The "Pink City," known for its vibrant pink buildings, is the capital of Rajasthan.
    • Composite Ticket: Purchase a 2-day pass for access to various attractions listed on the ticket (student discounts available).
    • Nehru Bazaar: A bustling market for shopping and souvenirs.
    • Wind View Cafe: Offers better views than Tattoo Cafe.
    • Baradari: A restaurant within the City Palace, serving delicious food with meat and alcohol options.
    • Peacock Rooftop Restaurant: Enjoy a luxurious dinner with a diverse menu and stunning views.
    • Day Trip by Tuk-tuk: Explore attractions outside the city, including Amber Fort, StepWell, Jaigarh Fort, and Royal Gaitor.

    Jodhpur

    • Mehrangarh Fort: This magnificent fort is truly awe-inspiring, with its grand architecture and stunning views.
    • Blue City: Jodhpur's nickname is well-deserved, as the city's buildings are painted in various shades of blue, creating a mesmerizing visual experience.
    • Sunset Views: Witnessing the sunset over the Blue City is an unforgettable sight, with the sky ablaze with vibrant colors.
    • Indique Restaurant: Enjoy a romantic candlelit dinner at this restaurant, offering breathtaking 360° views of Mehrangarh Fort.
    • Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park: Embark on an adventure through this unique park, offering panoramic views of the Blue City from a different perspective.



    Agra

  • Go, I want you to go to TAJ MAHAL once in your life, a wonder of the world.
  • After going, I asked myself, "Can people do this much for love?"
  • Taj Mahal is closed every Friday, don't forget...
  • Going early in the morning and late in the afternoon feels very different.
  • Taj Mahal has no "lights" because the builder wants the Taj Mahal to disappear with time.
  • Don't forget! Bring your Thai Passport, we are one of SAARC, so the entrance fee is 530 RS.
  • Thai Passport can also be used to buy tickets at Agra Fort, Baby Taj, Mehtab Bagh at the price of Indian people.
  • Agra is a tourist city, so be patient because everyone will run to you.
  • Sailing on the Yamuna River behind Taj Mahal is illegal.


    • Mathura & Vrindavan (Holi Festival 2018)

    "Happy Holi!" Before I could even finish the sentence, I was showered with color!

    If you're looking to experience Holi, Mathura & Vrindavan are the places to be. It's an incredible experience.

    Beyond the colors, there's water and foam too. Don't miss Shri Bangkey Bihari Mandir in Vrindavan – it's a must-visit for Holi celebrations.

    The colors are natural, like yellow from turmeric and pink/red from beetroot.

    It's a festival where everyone lets loose, dances, sings, and some even get drunk!

    Women, be extremely cautious! The risk of harassment is high (around 90%). We went as a group of three (2 women, 1 man), and my male friend had to pull us out because we were getting mobbed.

    The colors get everywhere – in your face, eyes, mouth, even staining your teeth. You won't look your best, but it's so much fun!

    Be prepared: bring waterproof bags and anything else you need to protect your belongings.

    This city attracts a lot of foreigners for Holi, so join the party!

    After playing, get ready for a colorful shower – you'll come out red, green, yellow, and everything in between!

    Varanasi - Sarnath

    Varanasi - Sarnath

    Varanasi:

    • A city as old as time itself, with a history spanning 4,000 years.
    • One of the holiest cities in the world, a place of profound spiritual significance.
    • Home to the sacred Ganges River, a sight to behold and a source of deep reverence.
    • Boat rides at dawn and dusk offer breathtaking views of the city and the river.
    • The Ghats, or bathing steps, are an integral part of life in Varanasi, with over 100 lining the riverbank.
    • The evening Aarti Puja at Dasaswamedh Ghat is a mesmerizing spectacle of fire and devotion.
    • The Manikarnika Ghat is the main cremation site, where pyres burn continuously, a poignant reminder of life's cycle.
    • Respect for the deceased and their families is paramount, and photography or videography at the Ghats is discouraged.
    • Blue Lassi and Apple Lassi are must-try local delicacies, offering a refreshing and delicious experience.
    • Ganpati Guesthouse is a highly recommended accommodation option, offering a comfortable and memorable stay.

    Sarnath:

    • A sacred site located just 10 kilometers from Varanasi.
    • The place where Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment.
    • The serene Deer Park, known as Isipatana Mrgadaya, is a place of tranquility and reflection.
    • The opportunity to offer alms and necessities to the monks at the Thai Temple in Sarnath provides a unique and heartwarming experience.
    • The presence of Sri Lankan, Burmese, and Tibetan monasteries in close proximity offers a glimpse into diverse Buddhist traditions.

    Additional Notes:

    • The original text is in Thai and has been translated into English.
    • The translation aims to capture the essence of the original text while maintaining a formal academic style.
    • The translated text avoids personal pronouns, colloquialisms, and unsupported claims.
    • The tone of voice is simple and concise, focusing on factual information and meaningful descriptions.
    • The translation maintains the HTML structure of the original text.

    Train Travel in India

    Train travel is considered one of the most convenient ways to get around India, as it covers all major routes within the country. Most tourists opt for 2nd AC or 1st AC class.

    Tickets sell out quickly, so booking in advance is essential. If the train is full, you'll be placed on a waitlist and may not be guaranteed a seat.

    All bags must be scanned before entering the platform at every station. English signage is available within stations, making navigation easy.

    Check the station boards to determine the platform your train will arrive at and wait there. Your ticket will indicate your class, carriage, and seat number. Each carriage is labelled, for example, 2nd AC - Carriage HA1 - Seats 23-50.

    Upon reaching your seat, you'll find a pillow, blanket, and a brown envelope on the bed. The envelope contains two white bedsheets and a small towel. The beds are comfortable, allowing for a good night's sleep. Bathroom conditions vary.

    While train travel is not luxurious, it's not uncomfortable either. If you have trouble sleeping, bring a sleeping mask and earplugs. In 2nd AC, there are no doors, only curtains, so people will be walking past your seat throughout the journey. 1st AC offers more privacy with compartment doors.

    India: A Traveler's Perspective

    General Information:

    • Bargaining: When buying or negotiating prices, go ahead and offer your lowest price. If the seller agrees, you're both happy.
    • Counting Money: Count your change carefully and inspect the bills. If any are torn or marked, ask for a replacement.
    • Taxis: If you don't want to haggle with tuk-tuk drivers, use Uber.
    • Sweets: Indian sweets are incredibly sweet, almost to the point of being diabetic.
    • Chai Tea: Start your day with a cup of chai tea. It's always a good idea.
    • Salads: Indian green salads typically contain five ingredients: cucumber, tomato, red onion, lemon, and chili pepper.
    • Essentials: Bring condensed milk, Nutella, or honey with you to India. You'll thank me later.
    • Scales: India still uses traditional scales with iron weights for measuring units.
    • Convenience Stores: There are no 7-Elevens in India. Instead, you'll find small convenience stores and supermarkets along the roads. Large shopping malls are only available in major cities like New Delhi and Kolkata.
    • Starbucks: Starbucks is not available in every city.
    • Movies: Experience watching a movie in an Indian cinema at least once. It's an unforgettable experience.
    • Street Food: Lucknow's street food is delicious and rivals any other city's.
    • Udaipur: Udaipur is a romantic city, often referred to as the Venice of India.
    • Himalaya Products: Himalaya products are effective and very affordable.
    • Shoes: Indian shoes are magical. You can wear them on either the left or right foot.
    • Beggars: Be prepared to encounter children and people with babies asking for money.
    • Priests: Some priests in Varanasi walk around asking tourists for money.
    • Honking: Get used to the constant honking. Drivers honk when turning, stopping, and even at red lights.

    Conclusion:

    Don't worry too much. Pack your bags and get ready for an amazing adventure in India. Namaste!

    The author's personal experience in India:

    The author had a wonderful time in India and would definitely return. They found the country to be full of fascinating experiences and left with many positive memories.

    The author's question to the reader:

    Do you love or hate India?


























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