India

*View the bottom of this page for general advice that applies to all cities in India*

Chennai:

Things To Do:

  • DakshinaChitra Heritage Village: living history museum dedicated to South Indian heritage.
  • Mahabalipuram: impressive temples and monuments built in the 7th and 8th centuries.
  • Kapaleeswarar Temple and Bazaar: beautiful temple.
  • Poompuhar: fun area to go shopping for souvenirs and gifts.
  • Fort Saint George & Marina Beach

Accommodation:

  • Vivanta by Taj — Fisherman’s Cove: lovely resort on the beach.
  • Hyatt Regency Chennai

Bangalore:

Things To Do:

  • Lalbagh Gardens
  • Bangalore Palace
  • Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple
  • Tipu Palace: Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace
  • Arbor Brewing Company: Brewery, with the only other location in the world in Ann Arbor, Michigan!

Accommodation:

  • ITC Gardenia, Bengaluru

Mumbai:

Things To Do:

  • Dabbawallah Tour: Lunchbox delivery and return system, one of the most efficient systems in the world, and my favorite tour in Mumbai.
  • Explore Dharawi: The 3rd largest slum in the world. A really eye opening experience that teaches you about how the society works.
  • Bollywood Tour.
  • Explore downtown.
  • Hoppipola: good drinks and great music.

Delhi:

Things To Do:

  • Day trip to Agra to see the Taj Mahal, ~4 hours each way by bus.
  • Shopping at Connaught Place.
  • Banghara dancing lessons.
  • Henna tattoos.
  • Krishna Ballet.

Accommodation:

  • Le Meridien New Delhi

Notes:

  • You cannot drink the water in India. I would use bottled water to brush your teeth, avoid getting water in your eyes in the shower, do not eat ice, and avoid things that have been washed in water (lettuce, fruits, etc.).
  • I would recommend bringing a Z-Pak, Cipro, Imodium, Advil, and Benedryl with you to India in case you get sick from the food or water while you are there.
  • To visit India, you need to apply for a Visa in advance.
  • In India, they speak many different languages. If you go to the South, they will speak a different language than they speak in the North.
  • The food in the South is very different from the food in the North.
  • Tipping is not expected in India.
  • There are many different culture norms in India. Read THIS article for more information.
  • If you are a woman traveling to India, is is respectful to have to your knees and shoulders covered at all times. I would also carry a scarf with you in case you want to visit a religious site.

Background photo taken at the Taj Mahal in Agra, India.