A Visit to India: the Country of Diversities

India is a huge country, and one of the largest peninsulas in the world. With an area spread across 3.287 million km² and a population of over 1.38 billion, it is a diverse nation with 29 states, 22 languages, and six religions. Did you know that Hinduism, the major religion of India, has about 330,000 Gods and Goddesses? 

There are thousands of cities in India. Covering all of them is not possible on a single trip. Even the Indians themselves must not have explored their entire country. During my 2-week visit to the country, I had a chance to visit four of the major cities of India. Let’s look at a few highlights of these unforgettable places:

1. Mumbai

Capital of Maharashtra and the seat of Bollywood, Mumbai is an amazing city with typical Marathi culture. The fashion capital of India, it is home to some of the must-visit places in the country:

• Global Vipassana Pagoda – A huge meditation dome hall near Gorai that can seat 8,000 people at a time. It is the biggest stone dome in the world made without any pillars for support.
• Gateway of India – An early 20^th-century arch-monument.
• Taj Mahal Hotel – This is not just a hotel, but an epitome of class, culture, and style.
• Juhu Beach – A visit to Mumbai is incomplete without watching sunrise or sunset at the Juhu Beach, and yes, don’t forget to relish Pav Bhaji and Vada Pao, and have Mehndi done on your palms.
• Hanging Garden – A terrace garden at the Malabar Hill top with amazing views of the city.
• Bandra-Worli Sea Link – A cable-style bridge that connects Bandra with Worli, a great place to click a few pics

2. Kolkata

Capital of West Bengal, this east Indian city has a charm of its own. The cultural, commercial, and educational center of eastern India, the city has earned its name in the field of arts, drama, literature, and theatre. When you are in Kolkata, you must not miss visiting some of the iconic places, including Fort William, Eden Gardens, Victoria Memorial, Marble Palace, and Kali temple of Dakshineswar. Don’t forget to taste the world-famous ‘Rosogolla’, one of the most fabulous desserts in India.

3. Coimbatore

Coimbatore is a charming South-Indian city in the state of state of Tamil Nadu, with attractions like G.D.Naidu Car Museum, Kovai Kutraalam, Anjeneyar Kovil, and Marudhamalai Murugan Temple. It is also home to Asia’s biggest statue of Lord Ganesha temple in Puliakulam. The Idli & Chutney you will find here is just a mesmerizing delicacy.

4. Nagpur

Nagpur is another city in Maharashtra. It is located in the exact center of India and features the zero-milestone. Famous for oranges and cotton, it is also home to must-visit places like Ambazari Lake, Deekshabhoomi, Sitabuldi Fort, Dhamma Chakra Stupa, Seminary Hill, and Nagzira Wildlife Sanctuary.

Undoubtedly, India is an amazing country worth visiting. Did you know that chess was invented in India, and the word ‘shampoo’ came from ‘champu’, which means ‘massage’ in Hindi? The ‘Roti’ that Indians eat is made with wheat and is a much better and healthier option than bread. It’s amazing how Indian drivers keep honking while gliding through the traffic jams without causing an accident. 

Watching so many people living in poverty without a roof and door, you will start appreciating your life and being grateful for what you have. Still, Indian people are wonderful and have a welcoming attitude towards their guests. They follow the belief of ‘Atithi Devo Bhava’, which means guests are God to them.

Have you ever visited India?