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India is a place with a vibrant celebration of life, colour, tradition, and tales. Due to its vast cultural richness, India provides endless cultural experiences. These cultural experiences are much more than just sightseeing. You can choose our expertly designed India tour packages for authentic cultural experiences. So, let’s explore the best cultural experiences in India that you must try for an amazing adventure.
Top 10 Cultural Experiences in India
1. Visit Varanasi to See Dev Deepawali
More than a million lamps light up Varanasi’s ghats on Dev Deepawali. It is 15 days after the festival of Diwali. The city becomes sacred as priests perform synchronised Ganga Aarti, and the river reflects the lights. You can experience the holy energy in the air while floating on a boat beneath starry skies.
It is recommended to book cultural tours around the city to explore the history. Stay close to the Dashashwamedh Ghat for access to the Ganga aarti. You can also reserve a boat ride in advance to see the sunset.
• Location: Varanasi’s Ghats
• Best time to visit: November, 15 days after Diwali.
2. Participate in Ziro Valley Traditions
The Apatani tribe lives in the Ziro Valley, located in northeastern India. They are well-known for their bamboo homes, facial tattoos, and eco-friendly way of living. You can participate in local kitchen activities and observe the customs of paddy cultivation.
Embrace the customs of the Apatani tribe and experience the local culture in every moment. You can also choose cultural tours and accommodations with local families in this hidden treasure.
3. Witness Kathakali in Kerala
Kathali features Ancient mythology, dramatic gestures, and vibrant makeup. The play combines drama, music, and devotion. It is presented in temple courtyards or cultural centres. It is advised to come early to witness the painters’ face-painting, which is a custom in itself.
Plan your trip to Kerala Kalamandalam or during festivities like Onam. Moreover, learn about the stories, costumes, and symbols that support this interesting custom.
Location: Kadathanadan Kalari Centre & Navarasa Kathakali in Thekkady or Cochin Cultural Centre in Kochi.
• Best time to visit: October to March
4. Explore the Monuments of Delhi
Delhi is a museum of empires. It features many magnificent architectural structures, like the Qutub Minar and Humayun’s Tomb. You can explore the narrow lanes of Old Delhi, visit Jama Masjid, or shop at the centuries-old bazaars of Chandni Chowk.
Take guided heritage walks and discover the history. Also, wear comfortable shoes for the morning or evening heritage walk. You can also try some delicious street food on the way.
• Location: Old & Central Delhi
• Best time to visit: October to March
5. Celebrate Kutch's Rann Utsav
Rann of Kutch, a salt desert, becomes a lively festival town every winter. Enjoy native handicrafts, camel rides, folk dances, and musical evenings under the stars. You can stay in tents or Bhungas, which are mud homes.
Additionally, participate in Kutchi needlework classes and taste traditional foods such as khichdi and bajra rotla. You can take a bus or a taxi to the White Rann after flying to Bhuj. Due to great demand, reserve tent accommodations in advance.
• Location: Dhordo Village, near Bhuj
• Best time to visit: November to February.
6. Plan a Stay in a Monastery in Ladakh
Want to get away from the bustle of the city? You can plan a stay at a guesthouse at a Ladakhi monastery. Participate in morning prayers, enjoy butter tea, and discover more about Buddhist life. Wake up to the peace of the mountains and the chanting of monks.
You can also incorporate trekking into your itinerary to combine culture and adventure. Plan brief stays in neighbouring monasteries after arriving in Leh. Additionally, carry warm clothes with you.
• Location: Thiksey or Hemis Monasteries
• Best time to visit: May to September
7. Experience Durga Puja in Kolkata
Durga Puja in Kolkata is an eruption of creativity and community. Admire tall idols, beautifully designed pandals, and street parades. The locals wear their best attire and hop on pandals till late evening during this time.
You can try bhog (communal lunch), then join hundreds of devotees for evening aarti. Pick a central stay to access the major pandals. Also, make sure to try the native bhog and Kumartuli’s idol-making alleyways.
• Location: Park Street, North Kolkata, and Kumartuli
• Best time to visit: September or early October for the best experience
8. Visit Raghurajpur Arts & Crafts Village in Odisha
Raghurajpur is a heritage village in Odisha, close to Puri, where each house doubles as an art gallery. It is famous for Pattachitra paintings, in which stories and temple legends are portrayed by artisans using linen and natural dyes. You can see colourful toys, tussar silk work, and engravings on palm leaves. Many painters welcome guests inside to have a close-up look at their work.
Make sure to witness the traditional Gotipua dance, which is performed by young males at nearby dancing schools. You can pair this trip with a visit to the Jagannath Temple in Puri.
• Location: Raghurajpur, Odisha
• Best time to visit: October to March
9. Enjoy Holi in Vrindavan
According to Krishna’s stories, Holi in Vrindavan is a celestial celebration of love rather than just a colour festival. There is something different every day, including temple Holi with prayers, music, and sweets, widow Holi, and “Phoolon wali Holi” (flower Holi).
The whole town transforms into a colourful and melodic stage. Plan your stay in Vrindavan or Mathura and visit the Banke Bihari temple for the flower Holi.
• Location: Vrindavan temples
• Best time to visit: March (exact dates may vary)
10. Craft Your Own Blue Pottery or Block Print in Jaipur
Art is a living skill that has been passed down through the years in Jaipur; it is not just for show. You can participate in interactive classes on block printing with natural dyes or blue ceramics.
Small group workshops are frequently held in rural studios or city alleys. So, experience Rajasthan’s royal design culture with workshops by skilled craftspeople. You can even take your handcrafted item home with you.
• Location: Jaipur – Sanganer, Bagru, Amber Road
• Best time to visit: Available year-round, but October to March is best
India is a country where culture is present everywhere. Every event, from colourful festivals to age-old customs, has a backstory. You can celebrate and enjoy Indian customs with our carefully chosen India tour packages. Begin your journey with us and allow India’s cultural diversity to leave you with priceless memories!
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