One of the ancient and popular Hindu religious festivals of India, Holi is round the corner and people from different parts of the world are excited to be a part of the celebration of colourful love. The festival lies when the cold of winter is replaced by the soothing tones of spring, and displays the vivacious shades of fascinating Indian culture. It is celebrated with an array of activities taking place all over the country, ranging from traditional rituals at temples to luxury parties with DJ’s, bhang and cheerful colours.

If you are planning a visit to India this Holi, know about the places where you make the most of this joyful festival:

Delhi

It is a known fact that the capital turns into a rowdy affair during the festival of Holi. There is no end to fun and frolic all over the city with music, dancing and an array of Holi-themed parties. If you wish to make the most of the festival in Delhi, be a part of the Holi Moo Festival – the festival of colour and madness held every year with over 40 Indian as well as international artists performing over various stages. Street food, bhang lassi, sprinklers and non-toxic colours – each and everything about the event is certain to get you into a perfect festive mood.

Mathura and Vrindavan

The Holi celebration in Mathura and Vrindavan is quite popular all over the country. The festival is celebrated with great gusto and fervour here and appeals to tourists and pilgrims from different corners of the world. The celebrations start 40 days before the main day of the festival in the temples across Mathura and Vrindavan. From the temples to the river to the Holi Gate, all become livelier with a colourful and musical procession during the festival. You can visit Dwarkadheesh Temple to experience the best of throwing of colours in Mathura.

Hampi

Though South India is not popular for Holi celebrations, Hampi, an ancient village in Karnataka, celebrates the festival with all the zeal due to the presence of huge crowds of western tourists. The Holi celebration is highly popular in the city; it is celebrated for two days with coloured powder and liquid colours along with extravaganza of music and dance. You would also love to explore the heritage monuments of the city that turn colourful and appear more beautiful on Holi than the usual days.

Punjab

One of the most important Sikh festivals celebrated in Punjab, the festival of Holi in the state is also called Hola Mohalla or Hola. It is celebrated in a unique style following a peculiar tradition that comprises less of colour play and more of kushti (martial art practices). Held at the Anandpur Sahib Gurudwara, in Rupnagar for three days, it is considered as a holy festival for the Sikhs and also comprises sword fighting, acrobatic military stunts and elaborate langars (free food) on each day.

Udaipur

Renowned for its royal aura appealing to tourists from different corners of the world, Udaipur celebrates Holi with all the poise. The festival is celebrated with lighting bonfire which is also called Holika Dahan one day before and is followed by a procession to the City Palace organised by the Royal Rajputs of Mewar family of Udaipur on the day of Holi. While the decked up horses and live band party are a treat to watch during the procession, the colour play, afterwards, is such a delight to indulge in.

A 10 day festival that is celebrated in Agra, India every year, Taj Mahotsav introduces you to the rich cultural heritage of the country. The fun-filled festival is attended by a large number of locals as well as tourists every year. If you are going to be in India during this festival, we highly recommend you to be a part of the celebrations.

Where to attend Taj Mahotsav

The event takes place in Agra, a famous Indian city known for one of the most iconic wonders of the World, the Taj Mahal. A drive to the city takes around 3 hours from the national capital New Delhi.

Taj Mahotsav, 2020 Dates

The 10 day festival will begin on 18^th February, 2020 and go on till 27^th February 2020.

What to Experience

The cultural extravaganza presents a host of colourful experiences to its visitors. A number of participants from all over the country showcase their artistic talents and work in various forms. From rich art and crafts, cultural dance and music performances, to cuisines from all over India, you will be delighted to be a part of such a colourful celebration. And all of this happens with the incredible Taj Mahal right in the backdrop and beautifully decorated camels and elephants welcoming you.

Art & Crafts

An exhibition of handcrafted artworks from all over the country like handicrafts, embroideries, stone & wooden sculptures, pottery, carpets, and a lot more is the main attraction of this festival. You can buy as many artworks as you want and keep them as a souvenir.

Dance & Music Shows

Taj Mahotsav is a stage for talented and thriving artists to show their talent to the world. Indulge in a series of classical and folk performances like dances, puppet shows, shayari, stage drama and more.

Food

Enjoy some aromatic and sumptuous Indian cuisine at Taj Mahotsav. Several food stalls serve authentic local dishes from different parts of the nation which you will be delighted to try.

Fair

To make the festival even more entertaining, a number of amusement rides and game stalls are setup in the fairground. After a busy day exploring the festival, you can have some great fun at the fairground.

Entry Fee

Although there is an entry fee for Indian adults and kids (around half a £), foreign tourists can enter the festival for free.

Counted among the oldest continually inhabited cities of the world and the holiest in Hinduism, Varanasi is a tourist destination popular among pilgrims from different parts of the world. While the city is renowned as a place to wash away sins in the sacred waters, it is an amazing place to buy local as well as international products.

When in Varanasi, shoppers can get their hands on these wonderful souvenirs in the street markets scattered all across the city:

Banarasi Silk Sarees

The holy city is best known for selling rich quality Banarasi sarees and women from all over the world do not miss to grab their hands on at least two or three during their visit. You can find them in a variety of shades and colours. While Banarasi Sarees are available all over the city, peelikothi area of Varanasi and the whole sale shops in Thateri bazaar are some of the popular areas where you can get the finest collection and quality at great prices.

The Holy Water of Ganga

It is said that the holy water of Ganga or Ganga Jal is the biggest export from Varanasi and most people take the water along with them. There are heaps of plastic bottles of all sizes available for sale on the way to the Ghats of Ganga. People can carry water in these bottles or can pick it up in small copper cans that come with a seal to prevent leakage. These cans are especially designed as souvenirs to carry from Kashi.

Gulabi Minakari

An unknown art of the holy city, Gulabi Minakari is one such souvenir all sorts of tourists would love to take back home. While the Minakari work on precious metals like gold and silver is done in western India – Rajasthan and Gujarat, the Mina work in pink colour is done only here in Varanasi. Visitors can spot craftsmen performing this art in the by lanes near Gaighat; the small souvenirs of birds and elephants decorated with Gulabi Minakari are amazing home decorators and are the mostly sold items here.

Rudraksha Mala

Rudraksha Mala is one major accessory one should not miss buying when in Varanasi. It is a polished seed of Rudraksha tree considered to be the tear of Rudra and earlier form of Shiva. This organic jewellery has been worn by saints from time immemorial and is thus considered a very sacred seed among Hindus. You can get all types of Rudraksha here and can also buy coins engraved with Varanasi’s two famous temples on both sides. People buy these accessories as a remembrance of Varanasi.

Wooden Toys

The markets in Varanasi comprise several lanes of coloured wooden toys. You can meet wood crafters in Khojwa area of the city that typically make bright coloured wooden toys in the form of elephants and birds. You can also find human figurines, wooden creation of Shiva family, key chains and pencils with curious caps. Other places where you can buy wooden lacquerware toys and furniture from across India include Etikoppaka in Andhra Pradesh, Chenna Patna in Karnataka and Sankheda in Gujarat.

Delhi has always been a favourite destination of shoppers from all over the world; and Diwali is the time when the city becomes a mecca for shoppers. From swanky malls to lively markets, all come abuzz with colour and excitement, and turn into a glitzy delight during the time of the festival.
Here we’ve compiled the list of five happening markets in Delhi you must explore to get the true feel of festivity and make the most of it:

Chandni Chowk, Old Delhi

There is no denying that Chandni Chowk is a very famous and one of the oldest markets in Delhi offering full medieval bazaar experience. Already colourful and lively, the market turns all the more happening and crowded during the time of festivals, especially Diwali month. You should not miss to discover this chaotic shopping street that is lined by hawkers and porters with narrow lanes, and filled with beautiful candles, clay pots, clay lamps and fairy lights all throughout the festive month. Besides, the place is world-renowned for its food scene with its olden restaurants and sweet shops that are crowded with tourists and locals all year round.

Paharganj Market, Delhi

Located just right opposite New Delhi Railway Station, Paharganj is a hidden shopping treasure trove in Delhi renowned for its leather products and cheap silver ornaments. It is one street market in the city which is not so popular but is no less than the famous street markets here. If you happen to visit the market during the time of Diwali, you will get to spot vendors selling intricately-designed diyas, earthen pots, beautiful pieces of lamps and fragrant candles. Those who head out on a shopping spree in the city during Diwali must spare some time to explore this vibrant market.

Tibetan Market, New Delhi

Comprising of a strip of road just before entering the main market of Janpath, Tibetan Market is an ideal place to grab affordable and authentic Tibetan home decor products. Diwali is time when the market is flooded with a wonderful array of earthen diyas, designer lamps, beautiful lights and various other decorative items. Here you can also get your hands on some bohemian clothes, jute bags and artificial jewellery such as earrings, rings, bracelets, anklets and more.

Dilli Haat, New Delhi

Quite popular among locals as well as tourists, Dilli Haat in INA is one happening place to explore in the city. It is just perfect to buy a wide range of handicraft products from different states. While this market is lively all throughout the year, it gets quite colourful and quirky during the festival time, especially Diwali month. You can spend an ideal day here shopping for colourful lamps, a stunning range of beautiful diyas and candles, and various other home decor items. It is a beautiful hub of artists and you would love to spot an assortment of original designs here.

Dariba Kalan, Old Delhi

Dariba Kalan is a 17th century market lane located in Chandni Chowk, close to the old Jama Masjid. The market is popular for comprising a number of silver jewellery shops; some of them are more than 100 years old. It comes alive during the time of Diwali and Dhanteras, and is over crowded with people that visit here to buy silver coins and ornaments. Besides, there are several famous eating lanes close to the market including the Paranthewali Gali and the Old Famous Jalebi Wala foodies cannot afford to miss here.

India – one of the world’s most popular holiday destinations is ideally known for its diverse and growing nightlife scene that attracts not just the night owls but all sorts of travellers. With a number of intimate bars and pubs, private farmhouses and multi-level nightclubs scattered all around, the country guarantees an absolute entertainment to holiday-makers from all corners of the world.
Take a look at five of the top Indian cities with the best nightlife:

Mumbai

Famed as “the city that never sleeps”, Mumbai attracts a large number of party lovers from all parts of the world. While a majority of holiday-makers love to delight in the beauty of Arabian Sea and the beaches, the late night scene from Andheri West to Cuffee Parade is the most exciting experience in the city. One should not miss to spend a night in Bandra and Juhu where Bollywood celebs are found casually hanging up. Colaba and Kala Ghoba are some other neighbourhoods offering the most diverse partying choices. Besides, party animals should not miss exploring the dancing bars in Borivali.

Delhi NCR

Drawing young crowds from all around, Delhi – the capital city of India is just the perfect place to experience the actual vivacity and energy of the nation. There are endless options for dining, partying, boozing, sky gazing and gaming in the city. You can discover plenty of nightclubs, rooftop bars, and theme restaurants at some popular places like Connaught Place, Hauz Khas Village and Greater Kailash. These stops have more to dine, drink and dance. You can also head to the private farmhouses and sizzling nightclubs in Gurgaon, and discotheques in Noida for an exhilarating nightlife experience.

Goa

When someone states Goa, party, booze and nightlife – all come to the minds of travellers from all around. The state is renowned for its unique, astounding nightlife scene. From live concerts to the New Year celebrations to the seasonal international festivals, all draw the attention of party lovers. Places like Calangute Beach, Baga Town, Anjuna Beach and Colva are popular for their full moon trance parties. One can head to Vagator to be a part of the rave parties. Panjim is also a nice place to enjoy incredible nightlife clubbing and discover jazz shows and shoreline parties.

Bangalore

Though Bangalore is known to be the IT capital of India, it has unsurprisingly become a pub capital with some of the best night nightclubs in the city. Jungle Lounge, High Ultra Lounge, Opus, Athena, Loveshack and Skyye are some of the most famous ones. Places like MG Road, JP Nagar, Church Gate and Brigade Road have a huge collection of the clubs. You will find here a large number of party hoppers making all kinds of revelry. Besides, Coorg and Bheemeshwari are some ideal places to enjoy an overnight stay in a forest camp.

Chandigarh

Chandigarh invites party freaks from all corners of the world. From the most energetic bhangra beats to the spirit of boogie all throughout the night, you can indulge in the most thrilling nightlife here. Tao Lounge, Oriental Lounge, Lava Bar, and Antidote are some of the most amazing nightclubs to put your dancing shoes on at. Some of the most favourite partying spots of the residents of the city include Hops n Grains and English-themed Peddlers’ Pub. Besides, one can spend a great time strolling historic sculptures at Rock Garden.

Kerala, a beautiful coastal state in India so blessed by nature that it is recognised as God’s own country. Mainly popular for its pristine backwaters and serene hill stations, Kerala may not be the top of the line beach destination, but the beaches here certainly contribute to its allure. There are plenty of beaches along the 380 km long coastline of Kerala that are bound to amaze you, but here are the best beaches that you must consider visiting.

Kovalam Beach

This beach is the most popular beach in Kerala. The Kovalam coastline comprises of three beaches, the iconic Lighthouse beach, the Hawah beach, and the Samudra beach, all three together forming the 17 km long famous crescent of the Kovalam beach. All the three beaches offer picturesque landscapes and are dotted by several restaurants and cafes. The lighthouse beach remains fairly crowded and if you wish to find a more secluded spot, head to Hawah or Samudra beaches.

Cherai beach, Kochi

A secluded white sand beach near Kochi, Cherai beach is a thin 10 km long land strip with the Arabian Sea on one side and backwaters on the other. Ideal for swimming, the waves on this beach are mostly calm and you can even sight dolphins here. Off the coast, you will find dense coconut groves and some pocket friendly restaurants as well as resorts.

Varkala Beach, Thiruvananthapuram

Another beach frequented by foreign tourists, Varkala beach is the only beach in Kerala with a stretch of rolling cliffs running through its length. Several cafes, restaurants, and beach shacks that are setup throughout the edge of the cliff provide excellent views of the Arabian Sea. A great place to relax and meditate, the beach is famous among youngsters, hippies, and yoga enthusiasts.

Alappuzha Beach, Alappuzah

If you are in Alappuzah, it’s probably because of a houseboat stay in its pristine backwaters. Apart from the beauty of the backwaters, the beauty of the Alappuzha beach is something you must soak in. An abandoned pier at the beach that is more than 130 years old stays extended into the sea and can work as a great photography prop. The beach is at its liveliest best during festivals that are held here during the months of October- February.

Muzhappilangad drive-in Beach, Kannur

A beach where you can drive? Yes, Kerala’s only and India’s longest drive-in beach, Muzhappilangad Beach is known for all the right reasons. The hard sand along the 4 km long stretch of this curvy beach makes it perfect for driving cars and bikes without any issue. Nominated by BBC as one of the top 6 beaches in the world for driving, this beach is also equally enjoyable off the wheels as it presents a picture perfect landscape and a wonderful sunset.

India is largely known for its picturesque landscapes, amazing architecture, delectable food, lush wildlife sanctuaries and rich festivals. Look closer and you will find that country’s vibrant street shopping scene too has a lot to offer to holidaymakers.

There’s an array of bustling and sprawling markets in the country, some of them known for their iconic old world charm, and other for their rich cultural encounters. We’ve compiled the list of top five markets that you must explore:

Sarojini Market, Delhi

Fondly called SN by Delhiites, Sarojini Market is one of the most famous street markets in New Delhi. The market is meant to be an ideal shopping paradise for fashionistas looking for everything stylish, ranging from clothing to jewellery to footwear, all at extremely reasonable prices. Many tourists visiting the city choose to explore the Sarojini Market and shop for latest trends at unbelievable prices. Bargaining is the norm here; make sure you bring your A-game.

Arpora Saturday Night Market, Goa

Goa might be popular worldwide for its beaches and parties but shopping here is an equally delighting option! Arpora Saturday Night Market is where people can shop under beautiful lights, with live acoustic music playing in the background. Catering to all kinds of shoppers looking for bargains, the market sells everything from homemade Indian handicrafts and leather products to traditional accessories, ornaments, and Goan handicrafts.

Fashion Street, Mumbai

Mumbai’s premier shopping hub, Fashion Street is home to an array of shops many selling trendy clothing, accessories as well as scrumptious street food. Shops are situated inside decades-old buildings featuring Gothic architecture. Besides its magnificent architecture, the market has a great range of products. Visit the street with your family and shop for clothing, jewellery, gadgets and electronics at reasonable prices.

Commercial Street, Bangalore

One of the oldest and busiest streets in Bangalore, Commercial Street is an ideal shopping spot situated close to the MG Road. The market appeals to shoppers looking for trendiest of clothes as well as those seeking the simplest of trinkets. You can spend a whole day here with your family and friends and still be left with more to explore. The market also boasts a fine collection of electronics for gadget lovers and a huge array of food joints for all tastes.

Hazratganj, Lucknow

A major Victorian style shopping area in the heart of Lucknow, Hazratganj is a place one should not miss in India. Comprising shopping complexes, restaurants, hotels, theatre complex and offices, the market is always bustling and reflects an enchanting cultural grandeur. You can shop for handloom items as well as Lucknow-famous chikankari fabric material at affordable prices. Gurjari, Handloom Emporium and Gandhi Ashrams are some of the major places to explore here. Foodies would love to try lip-smacking street food at a wide array of shops and stalls.

Republic Day is celebrated in a big way all over India but especially in the country’s capital city, Delhi, the day is marked by a massive military parade that has no parallel all over the world. Thousands of travellers fly to the city to enjoy the celebrations but only a few restrict themselves to just the wonders of Delhi. There are many terrific travel destinations around the capital city that can be explored while you are here.

Agra, Uttar Pradesh

Home to one of the world’s most famous monuments – the Taj Mahal, Agra sees millions of tourist arrivals every year. You can plan a quick visit to the city, which is around 250kms from Delhi, and explore the planet’s most celebrated love monument. Once there, you can check out

the Agra Fort, Buland Darwaza, one of the largest gateways in the world and Itimad-ud-Daulah, a draft of the Taj Mahal on the eastern bank of the Yamuna River.

Jaipur, Rajasthan

Lovingly known as the ‘Pink City’, Jaipur represents the kind of India you would have always envisaged sitting at home. Large forts and palaces, colourfully turbaned men and sari-clad women, bustling street markets, and camels and elephants on the streets – Jaipur is all this and more!

You’ll get an opportunity to explore the times of Indian royalty as you discover forts and palaces like Amber Fort, City Palace, Nahargarh Fort, Hawa Mahal, Jaigarh Fort and Rambagh Palace. Jaipur is around 280kms from Delhi.

Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand

The oldest national park in India, Jim Corbett National Park is a must-visit holiday destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Consisting of grasslands, hills, riverine belts, marshy depressions and a

large lake, the place offers the thrill of spotting tigers in the wild! Along with the big cat, you can spot a colourful birdlife, various species of deer, and elephants. Jim Corbett National Park is around 250kms from Delhi.

Lansdowne, Uttarakhand

A small hill station at an altitude of 1700 metres, Lansdowne is a true nature’s haven offering a peaceful holiday. The unique old world charm of the town is lapped up by travellers. If you wish to experience peace and thrill altogether, head to Lansdowne and explore some of its popular attractions such as Bhulla Lake, Bhim Pakora, Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple and Tip N Top. Besides sightseeing and jungle safaris, the town ensures wonderful trekking and mountaineering opportunities.

Sariska Tiger Reserve, Rajasthan

The best place to spot tigers in Rajasthan, Sariska Tiger Reserve is a popular national park nestled in the Aravalli Hills. If you wish an adventure-filled holiday, make your way to the

reserve and discover the thrill of wildlife. You can also spot animals like sambar deer, chital, jungle cats, rhesus macaque, wild boar and others. Besides, bird lovers can spot beautiful birds in the park such as harbour quails, crested serpent eagles, sand grouse and more.

Lucknow, the large capital city of a north Indian province, promises a terrific traditional shopping experience to travellers. There are centuries-old markets that are renowned for their authentic products, many of which can be taken back home as souvenirs.

Hazratganj

Situated in the heart of Lucknow, Hazratganj is teeming with shopping complexes and factory outlets as well as hotels, restaurants and theatres. The Victorian style market is most famous for selling Chikankari (Lucknow’s best known textile decoration style), handmade kurtas, khadi, embroidered sarees and ornaments. Lovelane, Seva Chikan, Janpath and Sahara Mall are some of the finest shopping spots to explore here.

Nakhas Market

A 200-year old market in Lucknow, Nakhas Market is located in the oldest part of the city and is divided into various sub-markets such as Nakhas Bazar, Bird Market and Vegetable Market. From garments and electronics to kitchen items, you can buy all kinds of stuff here; however, most visitors to the city opt for the beautiful zardozi garments, wooden handicrafts and jewellery. The place also has some terrific dining spots where you can enjoy biryanis, kebabs and paan (a betel leaf preparation).

Aminabad

Aminabad is the oldest and busiest shopping hub of Lucknow. It is a large market, mostly famous for its chikan works, books and some famous food joints such as Netram Kachori, Tunday Kebabi and Prakash Kulfi. Along with chikan sarees, local handicrafts and jewellery are the most popular buys as souvenirs from this market. Madan Sarees, Sargodha Cloth House, Dupatta Mahal and Om Prakash Seth are some of the oldest and prominent shops to explore here.

Chowk

Located in central Lucknow close to Bara Imambara, Chowk is an age-old market comprising of inter-connecting streets lined up with shops. The market sells authentic chikankari and zardozi garments. Handicraft items such as lamp shades, and wall paintings and ittar (perfumes) are some of the top selling items here and you can get them all at pocket-friendly prices.

Yahiyaganj

Yet another renowned shopping area of the city close to Nakhas market, Yahiyaganj is a wholesale market offering great bargains to customers. Along with textile, you can buy cosmetics, Indian spices and toys. Besides, there is a famous Gurudwara (Sikh temple) in the market that you can pay a visit to if you are in the region.