namaste india destination guide

You'll experience one of the most unforgettable sunrises of your life at the Taj Mahal, the ultimate symbol of love and luxury. This world-famous building is a hundred times more impressive in real life, and you’ll be amazed as you watch the glistening white marble turn all shades of pink and gold. You can even snap a photo on the iconic ‘Diana seat’!

Get to the spiritual heart of India when we take you to witness a traditional Aarti ceremony on the banks of the sacred River Ganges at dusk. It’s a truly magical experience to watch the Hindu priests lighting lamps and chanting for Mother Ganga, and you’ll have to pinch yourself as you watch the offerings of candles and flowers floating down the river.

If you’re into ancient history, you’ll be blown away by the city of Jaipur. It’s one of the best destinations in India, home to the UNESCO-listed Amber Fort, a huge palace of glittering white marble and pink and yellow sandstone, plus the Palace of the Winds. With five stories of stunning latticed windows, your camera is sure to get a workout here!

History buffs can't miss visiting the UNESCO-listed Agra Fort, one of India's greatest Mughal forts. It was an incredible experience to wander the maze of buildings and large underground sections, and I filled my camera with shots of the fairytale palaces and stunning mosques.

The best place to hear qawwalis (devotional music) is at the dargah (tomb) of the Sufi saint Nizam-ud-din Auliya. Resounding professions of faith ring out around sunset at one of Sufism’s most revered sites. The qawwalis take on a special hue during Basant, the festival of Spring, when both dargah and devotees are adorned with yellow robes and blooms. Absolutely mesmerising!

There was something truly magical about Sarnath. It's said to be the place where Buddha gave his first sermon after he found enlightenment and the beautiful Dhamek Stupa still stands in the place where he preached. There are many other ancient ruins to explore, including a holy Bodhi tree, cut from the famous Bodhi Tree where Buddha found enlightenment.