When most people think of India they imagine the iconic Taj Mahal, vibrant Bollywood movies, spicy curries, wandering cows and chaotic cities. But this massive country offers so much more and is an amazing destination to travel in because of it’s rich ancient history, plethora of interesting sights and architecture, diverse culture, landscape and spiritual traditions. In fact, India is often regarded as one of the most exotic, fascinating and captivating travel destinations in the world.

Here’s why you need to put India on your travel bucket list:

1.India is so diverse

India offers a lifetime of unique adventures. One of the best things about India, and something that keeps travellers returning again and again, is the diversity of this incredible country – from snow capped Himalayan mountains to the desert forts and palaces of Rajasthan; to tropical beaches and languid palm fringed backwaters, from tribal villages that feel like you’ve stepped back in time to some of the world’s most buzzing cities home to ancient temples and intriguing architecture. As well as the geographic diversity India is also so culturally diverse and as the language, food and culture differs in each state India sometimes feels like many different countries in one. You could travel across India for a lifetime and not see it all!

2.Experience Indian hospitality

India is home to the second largest population in the world and one of the highlights of a trip to India is often the incredible warmth, hospitality, curiosity, open smiles and infectious optimism from the Indian people you encounter. In India, guests are considered to be like God, hence why Indians are so famous for their generous hospitality. You may be lucky enough to get invited into a family’s home or even wedding as Indians consider it to be an honour to have the opportunity to host someone in their home, especially a foreigner. You’ll find that many people you encounter out on the street even want their photo taken with you – it makes you feel like a celebrity!

3.Discover spirituality

India is the home of many different religions and spirituality is ingrained in the culture and is an integral part of everyday life. Visiting the diverse places of worship and witnessing the excitement of the festivals is an experience in itself. Explore colourful, noisy Hindu temples and impressive Mosques, the stunning Sikh Golden Temple at Amritsar and the serene Buddhist monasteries nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas. Many spiritual seekers also come to India to learn the ancient practises of yoga, meditation and Ayurveda. When you add this to the culture shock of visiting this unique country, it’s not surprising that most people find themselves learning something new and returning with a fresh perspective.

4.Explore ancient history

India is home to one of the world’s oldest civilisations and has such a rich and fascinating history that can still be explored in the crumbling, ancient forts, elaborate temples, flamboyant palaces and colonial architecture. There is a plethora of historical sights to explore dating back from pre historic times, ancient kingdoms and dynasties to the Mughal and Colonial era.

5. India is great value for money

India is modernising quickly but still remains one of the cheapest destinations in the world. It’s heaven for backpackers who can travel here for as little as $20 a day but there are also options for every type of traveller. India also has some exquisite palaces that have now been turned into luxury hotels for those who want a really unique and special experience that’s still unlikely to break the bank. India is great value for money whatever your budget.

India really does have it all and there’s nowhere else on world quite like it, there’s so much to see it would take a lifetime to see it all and many people return again and again to India – it’s one of the last remaining places on earth that you can still get a real dose of culture shock, find yourself or just marvel in the diversity of the landscapes, the vibrancy of the festivals, the fervour of the religion, the rich history and the fascinating culture.

Could there be any other country that offers such a diverse and dazzling array of colourful, exotic and unique sights and experiences as India? Is it on your bucket list yet?