Where is the best place to fly to India? Holidays in India: when, where and why. History of the resort development

Of all the countries in the world, most likely, it is India that is capable of turning a person’s worldview around, forever changing his idea of ​​life, death, and happiness. Traveling through this large and colorful country, you can see so much that the trip can replace a trip around the world for a tourist.

A traveler who is planning to make an independent journey to the land of a thousand secrets and a million mysteries should do a little preparation for the trip. Many Europeans, arriving in India unprepared, experience severe culture shock, which spoils all impressions of this country. It's all about the attitude of Indians to the material world: they do not consider it worthy of attention. Therefore, many Europeans, upon arrival in the country, are struck by dirty streets, littered water bodies, and the abundance of beggars and homeless people on the streets. The main thing here is to be able to discern all the treasures of a rich culture so different from ours. Be able to see stars reflected in a puddle. However, soon the shock passes, and the person begins to see, think, and feel differently. And all the treasures of Indian history and modernity will leave an extremely positive impression: the taste of masala tea, the aroma of temple incense, the Taj Mahal shimmering in a pink haze and a smiling street preacher...

Although accommodation and food are very cheap in India, you must come to terms with high travel costs as well as a US$60 visa fee.

Visa

The Indian Republic has made an attempt to save tourists from many countries, including Russia, from communicating with bureaucrats or smiling and money-loving employees of travel agencies and visa centers when obtaining a regular tourist visa. An entry permit for a period of no more than 30 days can be obtained online by filling out a form on the website https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/tvoa.html.

To obtain permission, you will need to upload your photo to the website, as well as a scan of your passport in pdf format. This must be done at least 5 days before the trip, but it is better to do it earlier, since the system does not always work flawlessly. Here you can pay the consular fee - $60. You can pay for the service with VISA or Master Card.

A visa can also be obtained in the usual way: at consulates, visa centers or through the mediation of travel companies. All of these methods will result in higher costs.

Road

You can fly from Moscow to the Indian capital of Delhi by Aeroflot ships, as well as on planes of ETIHAD and TURKISH AIRLINES. The last two offer travel with a transfer, but are cheaper. The leading domestic carrier guarantees direct and non-stop flights, but charges a little more for speed.

Direct flight (6 hours in the sky) - from 322 euros round trip, with a transfer to Abu Dhabi (ETIHAD) - from 290 euros, but the journey takes 12 hours or more (waiting at the airport - 3 hours or more).

Turkish airlines also offer inexpensive tickets, but political motives, as well as the unstable situation in Istanbul, may scare away domestic tourists from the services of this, by the way, very good airline.

Housing

Even in the capital of a fairy-tale country you can find a double room in a hotel with all amenities - from 4 euros per night. Of course, you shouldn’t expect a European level from an establishment, but it’s quite suitable for a tourist who can do without breakfast in the room and a safe.

The hotel, offering double rooms from 15 to 20 euros, provides clients with quite European comfort and amenities.

In principle, there are thousands of excellent hotels in India that do not have their own website, are not in the database of hotel reservation systems, but offer good accommodation conditions. Many experienced tourists do not reserve rooms in advance and travel at random, which allows them to save even more. But for those traveling to India for the first time, it is still better to reserve accommodation in advance.

Apartments in Delhi or Mumbai can be found for 15-17 euros/day. Living with a Hindu family can be an unforgettable cultural experience. This service costs from 16 euros per day, including breakfast. In addition to all the usual amenities, this type of accommodation will provide you with good advisers and even guides to the most interesting places in Indian cities.

Nutrition

Indian cuisine consists of rice, vegetables, dairy products, nuts and honey. Not everyone in the country eats meat, but in many restaurants you can see dishes made from lamb, goat, and poultry (chicken, goose, duck, turkey) on the menu. The abundance of fruit is simply magnificent, and you can get freshly squeezed juices everywhere.

And now about the main thing: the amount of spices in Indian dishes is simply unimaginable for a European person. When ordering any dish except dessert and water, you must add the magic words: “But spicy, please!” (no spices please). This does not mean at all that the served dish will be bland, far from it. It’s just that in this case they will bring you food that you can eat and admire a completely unique flavor bouquet.

Absolutely everything is delicious in India. Many Europeans are discovering vegetarianism, amazed by the abundance of delicious dishes made from fruits, nuts, vegetables and dairy products. Oriental sweets and spices with a unique “ensemble” of aromas are so different from the usual and familiar ones that a culinary adventure will be almost as vivid as an acquaintance with ancient culture.

If you eat in cafes, snack bars and small restaurants for local residents, then you won’t have to spend more than 5-6 euros per person per day.

Having chosen establishments for tourists, add 3-4 euros to the indicated amount, and if you want to indulge in local whiskey or rum for dinner, then add a couple more euros to the amount. As a result, we get that, even without denying yourself anything, you won’t have to spend more than 10-12 euros a day on food.

What to try?

To list all the famous Indian dishes, you will need several dozen pages of text, but you can highlight the “magnificent ten” dishes that you simply must try:

• Dal is a lentil stew richly flavored with spices. The basis of the diet of more than half of the vast country. The most inexpensive and accessible dish. Among the main advantages: satisfying, healthy and inexpensive;
• Palak Paneer is the most delicate cheese in spinach sauce, there are many varieties of this dish, but only one thing remains the same - excellent taste;
• Sabji is an incredibly common vegetable stew with rice and flatbread. A vegetarian masterpiece;
• Tandoori chicken is marinated chicken baked in a special oven. The dish is spicy, but unleavened rice and flatbreads “even out” the situation. Tasty!
• Chapati is the most common type of bread. It looks like a flatbread that reveals all its flavor characteristics along with any sauce;
• Thali - it’s difficult to call it a dish. When you order a Thali, you get a plate with flatbreads, rice, vegetables, sauces - a great lunch;
• Gajar Ka - halwa made from ordinary carrots and almonds, a favorite delicacy in the north of the country;
• Samosa - fried pies with vegetable or curd filling;
• Raita is a cold vegetable soup prepared on the basis of yogurt; the exotic okroshka is especially good in hot weather, especially in summer.

When traveling around India, you can eat in European restaurants, where the dishes will be familiar. But it is better to order fish delicacies if the restaurant is located by the sea. In this case, the freshness of fish products is guaranteed. Experienced travelers do not recommend eating fish in India from May to August, when the weather is very hot.

Main attractions

Agree that in a country where there are about hundreds of thousands of ancient temples, palaces, monuments, and sanctuaries, it is difficult to determine what to visit first. Tourist guides offer many sites and routes to suit every taste, but they all include several sites in the list that are simply impossible to miss:

• Delhi - you can spend two days in the capital, or you can explore it for several weeks. You should definitely visit Lal Qila or the red fort - the citadel-palace, the imperial residence of the rulers, the main historical building of the city (entrance - 2 euros, evening light and sound show - additional 0.67 euros); Qut Minar is an ancient mosque, of which only the minaret remains. The main object is a mysterious iron column, which has not corroded at all in 1,500 years (entrance: 3.30 euros); Lakshmi Narayan is a modern Hindu temple, opened in the mid-twentieth century;
• Agra (2 hours from the capital by train, ticket - 9.40 euros one way) - the main thing here is the tomb of the wife of Shah Jihan (Taj Mahal). Entrance fee - 10 euros;
• Ajanta is a cave temple complex, a place to find the path to liberation from suffering: ancient paintings, Buddha statues, huge halls and narrow cells (entrance - 3.30 euros, from Mumbai to Aurangabad by train, 4.5 hours, 3.50 euros one way; then to bus - 0.20 euros, 20 minutes);
• Mumbai is a city of museums and markets, a vibrant and vibrant nightlife, one of the most modern cities in the country, Indian Hollywood, there is a lot of interesting things, but it is difficult to see the real India here;
• Varanasi is the city of the dead, a place of funeral pyres, cleansing from all sins and mourning ceremonies. The spectacle is quite specific, as are the aromas that reign in the city. But you cannot know India without visiting Varanasi. From Delhi by train it takes 11 hours, a ticket starts from 4 euros one way;
• Kolkata - here it’s simply pleasant to walk along the central streets of the old city, look into the temple of the goddess Kali, visit the Kumar Tuli artisans quarter, buy a small figurine of one of the many gods here, and relax in the Maidan Park. The city has a reputation as the cultural capital of India, although it makes a depressing impression on many Europeans, but after a few days of living, the vast slum areas no longer seem so scary, and numerous museums and exhibition halls will help fill your stay with vivid emotions and pleasant memories.

The list is far from complete. In all major cities of India, you can find an experienced and knowledgeable guide from local residents who, for a nominal fee of 3-5 euros, will show your hometown from the most unexpected side, help you bypass queues at museums and palaces, and provide a comfortable place in the temple during services.

Important!

When traveling to a country of magnificent temples and palaces, we must not forget that there are some peculiarities of hygiene and behavior in India. Take simple but useful things with you:

• Wet disinfectant wipes;
• Activated carbon and antiacid (Gastal type);
• Hydrogen peroxide tablets;
• Patch.

Do not drink water from the tap or from waterpots. Only in store bought bottles.

Have an unforgettable experience!

Traveling and vacationing in India is always a huge explosion of emotions. India is a country of tea and cinema, elephants and tigers, ancient temples and picturesque resorts. Perhaps, with each new trip it opens up in a new way, endless amazing finds are discovered. We bring to your attention all the most important things about India for tourists planning to visit this fascinating country.

Ancient culture and exotic nature

Unique culture, architectural monuments, incomparable cuisine, marvelous nature, traditions and rituals, a stunning combination of leisurely monks and energetic business centers - all this attracts tourists from all over the world to India every year.

Where is

The exoticism in this ancient country begins with its geographical location. It is located in South Asia and is the largest state in terms of territory and population in this region. India is often referred to as a “continent country”. This is due to the fact that it almost completely occupies the spacious Hindustan Peninsula, as well as the surrounding territories, right up to the Himalayas and Kashmir. It is washed by the vast expanses of the Indian Ocean. The capital of this country is the city of New Delhi.

How to get there from Moscow

It is more comfortable and easier to first take a direct flight to New Delhi, and then carry out internal flights throughout the country. Direct flights are operated by Aeroflot, AirIndia and other airlines.

There are also connecting flight options: flights to Jaipur, Mumbai, Goa and other big cities. There are an order of magnitude more flights with transfers.

We also note that there is no railway connection at all. Overland travel (by car or bus) is theoretically possible, but is quite challenging.

Where is the best place to go: popular destinations

There are many interesting and popular places in India that are worth visiting. However, if you do not organize your trek in advance, the journey can be tiring. In addition, you risk experiencing real culture shock from this “land of contrasts.” Therefore, if you are just starting to get acquainted with this country, the right decision would be to choose one or at most two popular travel destinations. We list the most famous tourist routes:

• New Delhi;
• Mumbai;
• Kerala;
• Himalayas (Rishikesh, Dharamsala, Manali, Rewalsar, Manikaran);
• Northern India (Delhi, Agra);
• Bodhgaya;
• Calcutta.

Having made your choice, focus on the characteristics of a particular region. Fortunately, every state of India has a huge list of attractions.

Weather and climatic conditions

There are no traditional four seasons in India. Indians live in three seasons: hot, humid and cool.

Water temperature

In the most popular resorts in India (Goa and Kerala), the season for holidays by the sea lasts all year round. The prevailing water temperature here is +28…+29 °C. The maximum water temperature occurs in May and is 30 degrees plus.

Air temperature

The change of seasons in India is determined by the monsoons (steady winds). The climate in India can generally be called tropical, that is, mild weather prevails. The average air temperature throughout the year is +25…+27 °C. The temperature in the summer season is +24...+33 °C, and in the winter - +21...+32 °C with a plus sign.

The wet season here falls on June - October; relatively cold and dry weather occurs in November - February; and from March to May the climate tends to be very hot and dry. Therefore, if you are wondering when is the best time to go on holiday to India, give preference to the period from November to March. The air temperature at this time does not drop below +20 °C (even at night). In April comes the hellish heat, and in the summer comes the season of rains and downpours. However, during this conditional “off season” you can significantly save money on flights.

Did you know? The small town in India of Cherrapunji is the rainiest place on Earth, and the Thar Desert in the North-West of the country is, on the contrary, one of the hottest and driest places on the planet. This fact once again confirms that India is a country of contrasts.

Where to go for beach lovers

For those who go to India for a relaxing beach holiday, we present an overview of the most popular resorts.

Goa is considered the main international Indian resort and the real pearl of the country. The resort is rich in golden beaches, magnificent nature, palm forests, and charming old alleys. Tour to Goa - This, among other things, is an ideal option for those who want to combine inert relaxation with the study of local color. This state combines local exoticism and Western European traditions.

Another beautiful place on our planet that is definitely worth a visit is Kerala. This is a green region stretching
along the southeastern coast of the country. Local residents nicknamed this state “God’s Country.” Here you will discover an abundance of vegetation, azure beaches, gorgeous rivers and lakes, as well as bright green mountains.

To relax by the sea in the summer season, as an alternative to the popular resorts of India, you can come to the state of Tamil Nadu. Here you will be greeted by picturesque beaches washed by the warm waters of the Bay of Bengal.

Also pay attention to the almost deserted Andaman and Nicobar Islands. After traveling through the archipelago in the Bay of Bengal, vacationers are provided with vivid impressions of a lifetime.

Another wonderful place for beach lovers is the quiet shores of the Lakshadweep Islands, whose beaches are strewn with white sand, fabulous corals and clear water.

Leisure

Those looking to add some outdoor activities to their schedule can visit the mountainous regions of India. The mysterious Indian mountains are often called the “abode of the gods.”

Take a short trip to Himachal Pradesh, where the peaks of the Himalayas are covered with snow. Traveling through this state, you will find it difficult to get used to the idea that you are still in India.

The state of Sikkim is surrounded by the wonderful Himalayas and preserves the traditions of Tibetan Buddhism. From here you will have the most beautiful view of the Himalayan mountain range and the majestic Mount Kanchenjunga.

Also don't forget about the Kashmir Valley, famous for its fabulous beauty. Here the magical Dal Lake reflects the mountain slopes in its waters.

Sacred places of India

To experience the spirit and history of India, visit the country's religious capital - "immortal city" Varanasi. It is also the oldest inhabited city in the world. Varanasi is home to the waters of the legendary Ganges River, which have served as a place of ritual ablutions for more than two thousand years. The most important historical and architectural monuments are located not far from the city.

Ladakh - high mountainous region of the Himalayas, called Little Tibet. There is no place in India better than Ladakh where you can relax your soul and body. Ladakh preserves the unchanging traditions of Tibetan Buddhism. The area is rich in secluded monasteries and shrines, prayer wheels and divine chortens.

The cities of Rishikesh and Haridwar stand on the banks of the sacred Ganges and have been awarded the title of world capitals of yoga practice. Yoga tour in India - A wonderful method of replenishing your reserve of vitality.

For nightlife lovers

Let's also consider where in India it is better to relax for lovers of nightlife. Various clubs and bars are open in all major cities and resort areas of India. Many night bars with live music, excellent cocktails and delicious fish and seafood dishes will not leave you indifferent. Great attention is paid to interior design in establishments. The toilets in the establishments are not just clean, but artistically decorated.

Most of the clubs and bars in Delhi are located in luxury hotels. These establishments do not allow single men to enter, making them fairly safe for single women. Club life comes alive on weekends.

The famous Buddha Bars (B-Bars) are so named due to the predominance of religious themes there.

The Capitol club was created for lovers of Bollywood music.

Did you know? You will not find alcoholic drinks freely available in India. Alcohol is not prohibited in the country, but it is not particularly encouraged. Findit is possible only in specially designated places. Most cafes also officially do not have it (sometimes they sell it illegally); it is only available in restaurants.

Today, one of the most popular night spots is Hauz Khas Village (in Delhi). In the evenings, local golden youth gather here. There are also Mediterranean-style restaurants.

Features of accommodation

India is considered an inexpensive country for tourism: housing, food, travel can cost you a minimal amount. Although, of course, it all depends on your appetite.

Transport

Taxis and autorickshaws (motorcycle taxis) operate in large cities. These vehicles do not always have meters available. If there is a meter, make sure that it is reset for you. In addition, taxis come with or without air conditioning.

Taxi fares change periodically, so the price does not always correspond to the meter readings. However, the driver must have a copy of the current fare.

The price of a three-wheeled rickshaw is approximately half the price of a taxi.

In tourist centers there are a large number of cars with drivers at your service. The approved price list for their services is slightly higher than that of regular taxis. Renting a car without a driver is unpopular, but you can rent a motorcycle or scooter.

Nutrition

When traveling to any country, it is important to have an idea about its culinary traditions.

Most people in India do not consume meat from cows or other cattle for religious reasons. People prefer fish and seafood. The basis of the Indian diet is plant foods: various legumes, vegetables, flatbreads made from chapatis (low-grade flour). Hot milk tea is very popular among Indians.

In national dishes, cooks use a lot of hot pepper and garlic. Everyone knows the famous Indian curry seasoning!

It is strictly undesirable to drink raw tap water. Also remember to wash your hands regularly and thoroughly with soap. Wash vegetables and fruits using mineral water and soap. During the rest period, it is better to exclude fresh vegetable dishes from your diet. When traveling, always keep sanitary napkins with you.

Housing

India is one of the most affordable countries on Earth in terms of living. Several types of housing are available:

• Ashrams (spiritual communities where pilgrims from all over the world come) and monasteries.
• Guesthouses (small private hotels) and standard hotels.
• Private houses.
• Bambu hats (modest temporary huts in the coastal area).

Renting a home can be done in advance or on the spot (upon arrival at the holiday destination). If you rent housing for a long period (3 or more months), the cost is significantly reduced.

Important! Do not leave valuables and money in visible places. It is advisable to use a safe in hotels, as there are cases of theft.

Utility fees are often paid separately. The price of prestigious housing includes the provision of additional services (for example, ordering breakfast, bartender services).

Go shopping!

When planning a trip to India, be prepared for the fact that your friends will make you a lot of orders for souvenirs. In order not to get lost in the variety of choices on the market, be sure to familiarize yourself with the list of everything you need in advance.

In addition, be wary of any recommendations from sellers. You always need to be prepared for an “attack” from very intrusive sellers of all sorts of small things. Whatever you end up purchasing, you will remember the aroma of incense in the shopping arcade for a long time.

It is customary to bargain in shops and markets, but in shopping centers prices are fixed.

Here is a small list of what is worth buying in India:

• tea (black or expensive green);
• various fabrics, carpets;
• wood crafts;
• jewelry (bracelets, necklaces);
• traditional musical instruments;
• leather products;
• cosmetics and incense.

Important!When purchasing jewelry (for example, made of silver), ask for a quality certificate. Only with this document will you be able to return or exchange the product if necessary.

Features of Indian culture: rules of behavior on vacation

In India, it is a good idea to adhere to certain rules of behavior in order to avoid possible problems.

It is advisable for women to wear closed clothing before leaving the hotel boundaries. Bare-shouldered, short dresses, skirts or shorts are not allowed into most sanctuaries. Therefore, when going on a trip, women should take a scarf with them to hide their shoulders. Male tourists are advised to wear trousers. When entering a sanctuary or monastery, you are required to take off your shoes, although sometimes it is permissible to enter in socks.

In the interior of the country, indigenous people can show a lively and disinterested curiosity towards travelers. Don't be surprised or react harshly if you are stared at or urged to shake your hand.

Today, a holiday in India is considered the main competitor to traveling to any other country in the world. We hope that our small guide will be useful to you on your way to exploring this ancient country, on the path of spiritual enlightenment, or in search of an active or relaxing beach holiday.

India attracts guests who love the exotic, are chasing new experiences, and want to be satiated with new excellent emotions and feelings. This country is unique, only here pleasure and disgust, wealth and poverty, extreme and tranquility are combined on the edge. When setting off on a trip to this country of contrasts and secrets, it is worth deciding where to go in India, as there are places for a wide variety of types of recreation.

Brief geographical information

Located on the Hindustan Peninsula, India stretches for 3 thousand km from south to north and almost also from west to east. The eastern part of the country is washed by the Bay of Bengal, the western by the Arabian Sea, and the south by the Indian Ocean. The climate here is subtropical and depends on the monsoons. It is precisely because of the climatic conditions that vacation here is divided into two seasons: dry (high) and wet (low).

India is diverse, colorful and exciting; here every traveler will find entertainment to their liking. Since it’s definitely not possible to travel around the entire country in one trip, those who come here for the first time need to decide on the type of vacation:

• beach;
• active hiking in the mountains;
• introduction to Ayurveda;
• excursion trips.

Travel to Beach India

The country is washed on three sides by warm sea water, but there are few truly comfortable places suitable for a beach holiday. Among the most famous places where sun lovers could relax are the small state of Goa and the not so famous Kerala. The rest of the coast has practically no developed tourist and beach infrastructure, so we have to talk about these two resorts.

1. Goa— go for picturesque beach landscapes with snow-white sand and turquoise sea surface. Young people come here in large groups, as only here you can have a lot of fun at fiery night parties.

Conventionally, this state is divided into:

• southern an area where connoisseurs of comfort and service go on vacation, since only here you can find comfortable, fashionable hotels that provide a full range of services with a high level of service;
• northern– this is a recreation area for “savages”.

Apart from beach activities, there are no attractions in Goa. Therefore, this is a place to relax.

1. Kerala– is considered a more expensive and respectable resort area, located south of Goa. Wealthy guests of the country vacation here, so there are no large noisy youth groups. Varkala is considered the most popular holiday destination in this state.

The best time for a beach holiday is November-March. At this time, the weather is pleasant, with a calm, clear sea and no precipitation.

Mountain tourism in India

The second most popular type of recreation in India is mountain tourism, namely hiking in the Himalayas. The western regions of the mountain ranges are more attractive for tourists, as it is easier to get here from Delhi.

The top places to visit in the Himalayas are.

1. Rishikesh– these are foothill areas that can be visited even in winter. Yoga lovers flock to this place. Among the local attractions is the bridge
2. Dharamsala– a very popular tourist place. The main feature of Darsala is the presence of the residence of the Dalai Lama. That is why in this place you can meet Tibetans and monks, visit numerous monasteries, and get acquainted with Tibetan medicine. There are many different courses here: from cooking to jewelry making.

In addition, Dharamsala is famous for its Iyengar yoga school and meditation courses based at monasteries. Fans of active recreation can master trekking in the mountains.

1. Revalsar– a quiet place near Lake Revalsar. This is a place of three religions, where a huge number of Buddhist monasteries are concentrated, where you can undergo meditation and attend courses.

Cultural holidays in India

It is better to travel to cultural places and attractions in October-November or March-April.

1. Delhi– to get acquainted with the culture of the country, feel its aroma and see all the colors, you definitely need to visit its capital, the city of crossroads - Delhi. Despite the fact that it is a very noisy and rather dirty city, only here you can see the real India.
2. Agra is a typical bustling Indian city, but its main attraction, the Taj Mahal, is a must-see. Those who are interested in Hinduism or simply want to see the beauty and variety of temples should go to Vrindavan, where Krishna was born.
3. Varanasi- a very special place, since its main attraction is funeral pyres that burn all day long.

These are not all the best places to go in India, because there are many areas to get acquainted with Ayurveda, places where national holidays are celebrated, night markets, etc.

The climate and geographical location of the country influence throughout the year.

India in the summer months

Almost the entire summer period, India is at the mercy of the monsoons, which bring downpours to the country. Because of this, the sky is overcast with low clouds, air humidity reaches 100%, and sea waters are restless. Daytime temperatures reach +37 degrees, making it very difficult to breathe. At this time, you should avoid active travel around the country. However, this period is good for attending Ayurvedic and healing courses.

India in autumn

Until October, the country is simply drowning in rain. However, from the second half of autumn, precipitation becomes less and the weather is ready to receive the first tourists. It is better to go to Goa at this time, since there is a drought in the north, and the south is still suffering from rains.

India in winter

Winter is a heavenly holiday destination in India. The weather here is completely restored, there is practically no rain. In the west of the country during the day the thermometers show +26 Celsius, closer to Goa it is hot up to +32 during the day, in the capital the temperature is 20-22 with a positive sign, so it is comfortable to visit the sights at this time.

• For skiers, the winter months are an excellent opportunity to visit the Himalayas, as the snow cover has already formed.

India in spring

The spring months of March-May are a period of heat, when temperatures reach +41 Celsius, and there is no precipitation at all. At this time, it is better to visit mountainous areas, as the rest of the country is simply sweltering from the heat.

Living in India

Any traveler wonders which hotel to choose, and in the case of India, this question is especially acute.

There are several types of hotels in the country, which have certain conditions or lack thereof.

• There are special hotels for young people, which are mainly located in the southern part of the country. Prices here are not high, and life has all the necessary amenities. The same inexpensive hotels are government hotels where Indian officials stay.

It is better to choose and book rooms in tourist hotels in advance, using special early booking sites. On such resources you can easily find budget options and hotels with Premium or Heritage status, where there are all comfortable conditions for living.

• Private hotels represent a special category. In them, tourists will be able to experience real local flavor and feel the life of real India. However, not everyone will like the lack of hot water supply, change of linen, and shared shower rooms. The guests of such hotels are mainly pilgrims or Indians.
• If you want European comfort and convenience, then you will have to pay a lot of money. The availability of comfortable hotels depends on the area. There are many of them in the south, but the cost of living here is high, while in the north you can often get a discount in such hotels. But staying in a five or four star hotel is possible only in large cities: Delhi, Mumbai, etc.

The cost of a hotel stay is affected not only by the quality of services, but also by the season. So, during the high season, prices for accommodation soar several times, and during the recession, the cost decreases.

India is a unique and distinctive country; it, like a big magnet, attracts travelers from all over the world. Tourists enjoy getting acquainted with the rich history, culture, architecture and amazing ancient traditions. But besides the attractions, the country welcomes guests with wonderful beaches. Many of India's seaside resorts are superior to the world's popular health resorts. The article talks about the best places where you should come to relax. You can go to India as a single tourist, with your significant other, a cheerful group or with children. Everyone here will find entertainment to their liking.

Amazing country

India is the largest country in South Asia. It ranks second in population in the world after China. It is the birthplace of the ancient Harappan civilization, as well as the cradle of the most ancient religions - Hinduism and Buddhism.

The country is washed from the southeast by the warm waters of the Bay of Bengal and the Indian Ocean, and from the southwest by the Arabian Sea. Due to this, the length of the coastline is more than 7 thousand kilometers. Almost along the entire coastline there are resorts in India by the sea, where more and more vacationers from Russia and Europe come every year. What attracts tourists here? This is a favorable climate in the high season and a gentle sea that warms up to 25-28 degrees, unique culture and architecture, many attractions, original Indian cuisine and, of course, friendly local people.

Where to go, where to stay, which Indian resorts by the sea are the most popular? The following article provides a brief overview of the best Indian

Goa

It is the smallest state of India, located on the coast of the Arabian Sea. It has a reputation as a world class resort. Everything here is landscaped for the comfort of tourists. But the undeveloped infrastructure and local architectural beauty attract travelers from all over the world. The main attraction of Goa is the 100-kilometer long sea beaches with delicate and clean sand. Large diving centers, upscale hotels, chic restaurants, clubs, and discos are scattered along the shore. There are many interesting cultural places in the immediate vicinity. Those who stay in Goa, as a rule, do not look for another place to relax.

Kerala

This state is located on the Arabian Sea, south of Goa. It is decorated with coconut, mango and This place is called the capital of spices. It is also the center of Ayurveda, a world-famous healing system. Therefore, many come here not only to soak up the white sand by the sea, but also to improve their health. Kerala's rich cultural heritage and plethora of entertainment options diversify

Karnataka

The state is located in the south of Hindustan. Its territory is covered with dense forests, coffee and spice plantations, and there are many protected areas and cultural and historical monuments. But the main thing that attracts tourists to these places is the stunning beaches. Let's continue listing popular Indian resorts by the sea.

Maharashtra

It is a large state in the central part of the country. It has an extended shape from the coast of the Arabian Sea deep into the mainland, therefore it is known for its varied natural and climatic conditions and rich opportunities for varied recreation. Here the heritage of ancient civilization is intertwined with modern skyscrapers. The most popular resort city, especially among young people, is Bombay.

Tamil Nadu

The southernmost state is washed by the Indian Ocean. Its beaches are the longest in the country, and Marina Beach is the second longest in the world. The tropical climate prevails here; in the high season, the ocean waters are warm, gentle, and welcoming. In addition to swimming, you can rent a yacht or boat, scuba dive and admire the coral reefs, visit local colorful attractions or enjoy nightlife. One of the most famous cities in the state is Chennai, which Hindus call the “South Gate of India”.

Gujarat

The state in the west of the country is famous for its temple complexes, mosques, forts, and beautiful parks. The mountains of Gujarat are a popular destination among pilgrims. There are 10 temples on top of Girnar in Gujarat. To reach them, you need to climb a staircase of 5,000 steps. And of course, tourists love to spend time on the coast of the Arabian Sea.

The most popular beach is Mandvi, which is 6 kilometers long. It is distinguished by its fine white sand and azure colored coastal waters. Here you can watch sunrises and sunsets of unprecedented beauty. Fans of active recreation can rent high-speed motor boats, surfboards, scooters, scuba skis, and fishing equipment. Tourists should be aware that some beaches in Gujarat are unsuitable for swimming due to strong tides and fast deep currents.

What are the best resorts in India by the sea? Reviews from travelers clearly indicate that they are located in the states of Goa, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra. The following will list the best beaches in these regions.

When is the best time to go on holiday to India?

Tourists advise going on vacation to Indian resorts by the sea from October to March. In October the rainy season ends and the season for diving, surfing and, of course, swimming opens. In November, the tops of the Himalayas are covered with snow caps, and in Goa and Kerala, aquamarine waters attract travelers. Peak tourist activity occurs in the winter months - December, January and February. This is the so-called high season. At this time, the optimal air and water temperatures are established, the humidity level decreases significantly, and the amount of precipitation drops sharply.

The Arabian coast of Hindustan is hundreds of kilometers of wonderful sandy beaches, among which there are pristine, almost untouched by human hands, and ultra-modern ones with first-class comfortable hotels and developed infrastructure. Resorts in India by the sea, photos of which are presented in the article, promise their guests a wonderful holiday surrounded by exotic nature.

Apart from the beach season, the period from November to March is considered the best for excursions and sightseeing in India. The tropical rainy season begins in April and lasts until early October. The thermometer rarely drops below 40 degrees, the humidity indicator reaches 90-100%. Together, this creates very uncomfortable weather conditions for Europeans, so few tourists come to India at this time (low season).

Indian resorts by the sea: Kerala

This state is called a tropical paradise for tourists. It stretches for almost 600 kilometers along the Arabian Sea. The beaches here are small, but municipal. They are recognized as the cleanest and most comfortable in the country. The best of them are located in the vicinity of cities such as Alleppey (another name is Alappuzha), Varkala, Kovalam, Kannur, and near the village of Muzhappilangad.

What tourists say:

• Allepi is a very picturesque place with palm groves among rivers, lakes and lagoons. There is an excellent Vijaya Beach park with picnic areas and playgrounds.
• Varkala is famous for its healing springs. For a small fee, local healers will give you a special body massage.
• Kovelam is located in a bay with coral reefs. It seems to be created for fans of active pastime - divers, surfers, kayakers and water skiers.
• Kannur is ideal for a family holiday.
• Muzhappilangad is unique in that its beaches can be driven by car.

The listed seaside resorts in India are equipped with budget guest houses, as well as 4 and 5 star hotels with excellent service. It is not possible to get to Kerala directly from Russia. First you need to get to Delhi or Bombay, from where it will not be difficult to get/fly to your destination.

Beaches in Goa

According to many, the best seaside resorts in India are located in Goa. The state is divided into North and North Goa. It is designed for budget tourists; there are many budget hotels and inexpensive cafes; young people enjoy having fun at discos. The beaches here are covered with darker sand and have high banks. In the most remote part of North Goa is the wild Tiracol Beach. Anjuna is also deserted. But Baga, Calangute and Vagator are well-groomed places where tourists relax in an organized and inexpensive manner. The most respectable beach is Candolim.

South Goa is chosen by wealthy Europeans and wealthy Indians. This is a comfortable area, quiet and peaceful. The most picturesque place here is called Om. Bogmalo is a very small corner with an excellent sandy coast, surrounded by tall palm trees. In principle, all local beaches - Aguada, Majorda, Colva, Benaulim, Cavelossim - are clean and well-groomed, with good hotels, excellent restaurants, and developed infrastructure.

If you are planning a trip to Indian seaside resorts, Goa is a great option. The sea here is safe, the bottom is good, there are no steep rocks or pitfalls, and the waves are weak during the season. Getting here is very easy, there are many direct flights and trains.

Wonderful beaches in Tamil Nadu

In the state of Tamil Nadu there are wonderful resorts of India by the sea. Covelong is a beautiful beach, the best in the state, located 40 kilometers from the bustling metropolis of Chennai. It is very picturesque and calm here. Tourists can practice any water sport. One of the interesting attractions is the canal system between Covelong and Alleppey.

Marina Beach is 12 kilometers of golden sand and a clear azure sea. Even locals come here specifically to admire the magnificent sunrises and sunsets. But you need to swim here with caution because of the strong current. The exotic corner of Rameswaram Beach on a small island is connected to land by an engineering miracle - the Indira Gandhi Bridge.

Beach holidays in Maharashta

Ganapatipule is one of the best beaches in the state. It is very clean, with snow-white sand, surrounded by picturesque natural beauty. The area called Dahanu Bordi is famous for its fruit and flower gardens. The luxurious Junu beach is well-maintained and crowded. Walking along the coast, it is easy to meet a Bollywood celebrity. The beach with the complex name Shrivardhan Harihareshwar is known for its peaceful, calm atmosphere. It is great for families with children and for those who love silence and meditation. The beautiful places on the shore - Mandva and Kihim - are also cozy.

In general, there are a lot of beaches in Maharashta. All of them are clean and well-kept, have excellent infrastructure and many attractions nearby, which makes this seaside resort attractive to millions of tourists. You can get to Maharashta from anywhere in the country. Almost all the hotels here are high class and have excellent service. Not all popular Indian resorts by the sea are listed (see photo above). There are still a lot of them - wonderful places for swimming and relaxing.

India is a unique country, full of contrasts, with its ancient traditions. Before you go here, you need to familiarize yourself with a few rules:

• It is best to come on vacation to Indian resorts by the sea, the photos of which are simply mesmerizing, in November-March.
• Tourists need a visa to visit the country. All details need to be clarified with the tour operator.
• You must not enter the water in unauthorized places. This is dangerous to health and life.
• You can travel around the country by plane (this is the most convenient), train (there are special quotas for tourists), bus or car.
• Girls should not walk on the streets of India in too revealing outfits, in short skirts and shorts, with bare shoulders.
• You need to communicate with Indians calmly and friendly. You should not point at objects with your index finger.
• When entering a temple or mosque, be sure to take off your shoes.
• In many states, the issue of hygiene is acute, so you should always carry wet wipes with you, do not drink raw water, wash fruits with soap, and do not eat salads made from raw vegetables.

There are a huge number of attractions in India. It's simply impossible to visit them all. But you definitely need to visit the main treasure of the country, its symbol - the snow-white marble palace of the Taj Mahal. It is located in the city of Agra, 200 km from Delhi. Tourists will be hospitably greeted by the beautiful resorts of India by the sea. In February in Russia there is winter, snow, cold, but here there is warm sun, excellent weather, azure sea.

Gujarat

The state of Gujarat is famous for its national parks and reserves, where you can find rare animals such as four-horned antelopes. Gujarat's coastline is the longest in India (1,600 km), but many of the local beaches are unsuitable for swimming due to strong waves or questionable cleanliness.

Beaches of Gujarat

• Ahmedpur Mandvi and Diu Island. The long beach is good for long walks due to the dense sand. Crossing the bridge, from Mandvi you can get to the island of Diu - a former Portuguese possession, where colonial-style architecture has been preserved.
• Dwarka Island. From the city of Dwarka, in 15-20 minutes by ferry you can reach the island of the same name, where there is a sandy beach with coral reefs. Here you can see sea turtles, dolphins, octopuses and starfish.

Goa: north and south

Photo: thinkstockphotos.com, flickr.com