Southasia – since 2024
Kerala – for beginners
The southern state is ideal for first time visitors. Tourism is well developed, it’s safe, many people speak English well, the nature and food are incredibly diverse and there is little honking and no haggling!
Don’t miss: Fort Kochi, Munnar, Aleppey (stay at Dutch Square Hostel), Kozhikode
Andaman Islands
It won’t be a surprise that my main motivation to travel all the way to the Andaman Islands was Scuba diving. And let me tell you, the journey to the most remote state is well worth it! I stayed on Havelock for 7 days and can’t wait to go back.
In many ways, this Indian experience is completely different to the mainland. Little traffic and laid-back islanders combined with the cultural mix from all over make it a unique destination.
Himachal Pradesh
Literally called the “mountain state” it is the most easily accessible Himalayan destination in India. The elevation makes the temperature pleasant even in peak summer.
Between chill hippy towns like Bhagsu and Manali, there are plenty of options for trekking too. I got a first taste with the trip to Triund and Kareri Lake and can’t wait to go back for more. (Even though the bus rides are not as luxurious as in the south).
Tamil Nadu
One of the more rural southern states, that has so much to offer!
Visit ancient temples in Madurai, Tirchy and Thanjavur. Check out the colourful architecture and tiles at the mansions in Chettinadu. Stay at this lovely home in Karaikkudi: Vyugen Villa #01. Eat your way through Pondicherry.
Culture tip: in mid-January the Tamil people celebrate the harvest festival Pongal.
Kashmir & Amritsar
The border areas with Pakistan were not exactly on my itinerary for my first trip to India. But I’m so glad I took the detour!
Visit “mini-Switzerland” and experience Kashmiri muslim culture in Srinagar.
Walk around the Golden Temple and learn about the history behind the partition of India, Pakistan and Bangladesh at the museum in Amritsar.
South Goa
I was ready to skip Goa all together if it weren’t for a friend who runs a café (Ca Phé Nam) in Palolem. The stay at nearby Bhakti Kutir, far from the notorious party scene and crowds, was exactly what I needed.
Highly recommend Patnem Chai Shop and Rama’s for fish thali.
*I’ve been told by residents that they like the rainy monsoon season most!
Karnataka
Hampi is home to giant boulders, ancient temples, the stone chariot featured on the 50 rupees note and super chill restaurants.
Mysore on the other hand is a bustling city with a beautiful palace that really shines at night with thousands of lights. It’s also a foodie & shopping paradise. Check Naviluna if you’re into chocolate and cheese and Annavilasam Restaurant for divine Indian cuisine.
Uttar Pradesh
There are the tiny alleys of Kashi full with the Hindu pilgrims worshipping Lord Shiva & Mother Ganga in Varanasi.
Or the giant complex of the Bara Imambara showcasing mogul architectur and lively markets in Lakhnau. (Not to forget the classic Biriyani, Kebabs & Makhan Malai)
Last but not least: UP is home to the Taj Mahal in Agra.
Rajasthan
Jaipur: Panna Meena ka Kund, Hawa Mahal, Nahargarh Fort sunset, local craft workshops (eg. block printing).
Pushkar: chill hippy vibes meets desert oasis meets hindu pilgrimage (Jagatpita Shri Brahma Mandir).
Jaisalmer: a living fort, haveli architecture and desert adventures.
Jodhpur: Meherangarh Fort (incl. great audio guide), Pachetia Sunset Point, Bob Hostel, Stepwell, Bazaar
Udaipur: the Lake City. Ambrai Restaurant (high end but affordable!)
Food
Probably the easiest country to travel if you’re vegetarian/vegan.
Must try in the north: Paneer Tikka Masala, Dal Makhani, Rogan Josh, Chole Bhature, Naan, Aloo Paratha, Tandoori Roti, Pani Puri, Samosa, Kebab, Kachori, Kulcha, Gulab Jamun, Makhan Malai, Lassi, Jaggery Chai
Must try in the south: Masala Dosa, Idli, Vada, Hyderabadi Biryani, Andhra Chicken Curry, Chettinad Chicken, Kerala Fish Curry, Sambar, Banana Chips, Uttapam, Kappa & Toddy, anything served on a banana leaf.
Places I’d like to go:
- Leh
- Spiti Valley
- Barren Island
- Sikkim
- Naga Land
How to get around:
- For long distances use sleeper busses to save time. Trains are comfortable but not always reliable.
- In the cities, use motorbike taxis or auto rikshas. For safety and to avoid haggling you can check apps like Uber, Rapido or Ola.
- To travel between the Andaman Islands, Government Ferries are perfectly fine. Especially on public holidays this might be your best option since private boats sell out quickly.
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