Introduction Of India
The Indian subcontinent is one of the most visited tourist destinations in the world, pulling more than 4 million foreign tourists annually. India is also the fastest growing tourist destination, with the tourism sector expected to increase its revenues to $275.5 billion by 2018. Trips to India are becoming the hottest ticket for budget travelers, nature seekers, and cultural enthusiasts.
Despite these impressive numbers, they do not reflect India’s greatness as a tourist destination. India is a country so dense, large, and diverse that it will take a lifetime for a serious tourist to fully explore India. India has an amazing mixture of geographic features, rich culture, and heritage. India is the home of a number of fascinating religions, languages that gave birth to modern numbers, and thousand year old monuments that depict the antiquity of the country. On the other hand, India is a series of bustling megalopolis of modern technology, progressive economy, and one of the most competitive workforces in the world. Saying that India is a multi-dimensional country is an understatement.
Trips To India
Different trips to India include historical trips, rural tourism, mission trips, extreme adventure or backpacking, cultural expositions, and medical tourism.
India’s excellent doctors trained in Western and traditional medicine provide very affordable medical services. India’s medical tourism includes inroads in the field of plastic surgery, dermatology or general skin care, and traditional solutions for cases that may not be treatable with Western medicine.
India’s diverse geographic features have also made the country a haven for backpackers around the world. Backpackers taking trips to India can have a bountiful experience on a shoestring budget. Backpackers can find cheap hotels, food, and transportation. India is a land of contrasts with snowcapped Himalayan Mountains in the north and unbearable heat in its dry plains and deserts. This magnificent contrast will surely excite backpackers taking trips to India.
Casual travelers will likely take trips to top destinations like the Taj Mahal, Golden Temple, and the Victoria Terminus. The Taj Mahal is India’s most popular structure and the icon of Indian tourism. Located in Agra, the Taj Mahal is regarded as the greatest architectural achievement of India. Built from 1631 to 1653, this architectural marvel is actually a tomb for the wife of Emperor Shah Jahan. The Golden Temple is one of the most respected temples in India and the most sacred temple for the Sikhs. These iconic destinations are the first places on the list for people taking trips to India.
Mission Trips To India
A mission trip to India is the most profound of them all. Despite being blessed with vast natural resources and industrious people, India is also the home of the most poverty-stricken regions in the world. Poverty in India is often trivialized around the world, often painting the picture of the dark side of the country. Progressive and kindhearted tourists can participate in mission trips to India to complete volunteer work. Some travelers from the West willingly go on mission trips to India to immerse themselves on the other side of life that they will never experience in their home country.
Although some Indians feel that the picture of India as poverty stricken is unfair, if not accurate, charitable organizations facilitate mission trips to India to increase the awareness of people on the tragedies of poverty. Participants of mission trips to India are also reminded that India is in the cusp of massive development that can turn around the fortunes of India’s poor within a generation. Mission trips to India provide an outlet for altruistic people while being educated with what India is all about.
Special Considerations In Taking Trips To India
Before you take trips to India, it is necessary to take health and safety precautions to ensure a convenient journey.
The most dangerous health hazards for foreign tourists are malaria, encephalitis, and dengue. These diseases are transmitted by mosquitoes, so make sure that you cover your arms and legs by applying insect repellants. Backpackers are advised to bring mosquito nets to protect themselves when they sleep. Tourists can also acquire travelers’ diarrhea. While you are encouraged to experiment with India’s diverse cuisine, take precautions before eating uncooked food. Tourists are also advised to take extra preparation before traveling to rural areas. Rural areas do not have sufficient health services.
Tourists do not have to worry about their safety when they take trips to India. Mugging and theft of tourists are rare, and Indian people are friendly and helpful. If you need to ask for directions, you can ask the first Indian that you see and they will likely help you out.
If you are walking in the streets, stick to crowded areas. The large number of people is your safety net from crooks and muggers. Avoid dark alleys at night, and do not risk going to a place if your instinct tells you to avoid it.
Wear loose clothes. For women, make sure you are sufficiently covered to avoid drawing unwanted attention from males. Do not keep your money in one place. If the hotel has a private locker available, you can use it to store your important documents and pocket money. If you are traveling alone, do not draw attention.
Online Information On India
There are many award winning and reliable travel websites that can help you get started in preparing your trip to India. One of the most trusted travel websites with a great overview of the country is Lonely Planet (http://lonelyplanet.com). Travelwiki (http://www.travelwiki.com) is a human powered website that has a comprehensive feature on India and its top destinations. Backpackers can consult TheBackPacker.net (http://www.thebackpacker.net/travel-guide/travel-wiki/) for destination tips and directory of cheap accommodations and transportation options.
The beauty of India cannot be described in a few short pages. Its immensity and diversity make it one of the greatest civilizations in the world. If you are planning a trip to India, take time to research the country, its people, and their rich culture. Most importantly, take a trip to India with an open mind, so you can have the most profound experiences of your life.
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