10 Best Things to Do In India for People Travelling from Sydney, Australia
Have you ever dreamed of visiting India, the land of ancient wonders, diverse cultures, and delicious cuisine? If so, you’re not alone. India is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, attracting over 10 million visitors every year. But did you know that travelling to India from Sydney, Australia is easier than ever, thanks to the e-Visa system?
In this article, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about applying for an e-Visa, and why you should book your trip to India as soon as possible. Whether you’re interested in exploring the majestic Taj Mahal, experiencing the vibrant festivals, or practising yoga and meditation in the serene ashrams, India has something for every wandering soul out there.
Read on to discover the benefits of visiting India with an e-Visa, and get ready to pack your bags for an unforgettable experience.
Various reasons for people from Sydney to visit India:
Reason 1: To experience the rich culture and history of India, which spans thousands of years and includes diverse traditions, religions, and monuments. Some of the famous historical sites in India are the Taj Mahal, the Red Fort, the Gateway of India, and the Ajanta Ellora Caves.
Reason 2: To explore the natural beauty and wildlife of India, which offers a range of landscapes, from the Himalayan mountains to the Kerala backwaters, from the Thar desert to the Andaman islands. India is home to many national parks and sanctuaries, where visitors can see exotic animals like tigers, elephants, rhinos, and lions.
Reason 3: To enjoy the food and tea of India, which are known for their variety, flavor, and spice. India has a diverse cuisine, influenced by different regions, cultures, and religions. Some of the popular dishes in India are biryani, curry, dosa, chaat, and dal. India is also famous for its tea, especially the masala chai, which is a blend of black tea, milk, sugar, and spices.
Reason 4: To practise yoga and meditation in India, which are ancient forms of physical, mental, and spiritual wellness. India is the birthplace of yoga, which is a system of exercises, postures, breathing techniques, and philosophy. India also has many ashrams, temples, and retreats, where visitors can learn and practice meditation, which is a technique of focusing the mind and achieving inner peace.
So, What's Needed to Visit India?
To visit India, people from Sydney, Australia need to, which is an online authorization that allows them to enter and stay in India for a limited period and purpose.
The e-Visa process is simple and convenient, and involves the following steps:
Step-1: Apply online by filling out a form and uploading a photo and a passport page.
Step-2: Pay the e-Visa fee online using a credit or debit card or a payment wallet.
Step-3: Receive the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) by email, which is valid for one year from the date of issue.
Step-4: Print the ETA and present it at the immigration check post in India, where the e-Visa will be stamped on the passport.
The e-Visa is available for the following categories:
- e-Tourist Visa
- e-Business Visa
- e-Conference Visa
- e-Medical Visa
- e-Medical Attendant Visa
- e-Ayush Visa
- e-Ayush Attendant Visa
- e-Emergency X-Misc Visa4
Note: The e-Visa allows multiple entries and a maximum stay of 90 days per entry, except for the e-Conference Visa, which allows a single entry and a maximum stay of 30 days.
Okay, So What are the 10 Best Things to Do In India for People Travelling from Sydney, Australia?
India, a country of diverse cultures, rich history, and vibrant traditions, is a treasure trove for travellers. For those of you travelling from Sydney, Australia, here are the top 10 things to do in India :
1. Visit the Taj Mahal in Agra
The Taj Mahal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-visit. This iconic symbol of love, built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, is a marvel of Mughal architecture.
2. Explore the Pink City, Jaipur
Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, is known for its pink-coloured buildings. Don’t miss the Hawa Mahal, City Palace, and Jantar Mantar. Also, enjoy a traditional Rajasthani meal.
3. Experience the Spirituality in Varanasi
Varanasi, one of the oldest cities in the world, is the spiritual heart of India. Witness the Ganga Aarti at the ghats and take a boat ride on the sacred Ganges River.
4. Discover the Backwaters of Kerala
Kerala’s backwaters are a network of tranquil canals and lagoons. Stay in a houseboat and enjoy the serene beauty of the surroundings.
5. Trek in the Himalayas
For adventure enthusiasts, trekking in the Himalayas is a thrilling experience. The treks offer breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and lush green valleys.
6. Visit the Beaches of Goa
Goa, with its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife, is a paradise for beach lovers. Try water sports, savour Goan cuisine, and explore Portuguese architecture.
7. Explore the Caves of Ajanta and Ellora
The Ajanta and Ellora caves, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, are a testament to India’s rich artistic heritage. The rock-cut caves contain carvings and paintings depicting Buddhist, Jain, and Hindu traditions.
8. Visit the Golden Temple in Amritsar
The Golden Temple, or Harmandir Sahib, is the holiest shrine of Sikhism. The temple’s stunning architecture and the serene ambiance make it a must-visit.
9. Experience the Wildlife in Ranthambore National Park
Ranthambore National Park is one of the best places in India to spot tigers. The park is also home to a variety of other wildlife species.
10. Discover the Ruins of Hampi
Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was once the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire. The ruins of temples and palaces offer a glimpse into India’s glorious past.
Which are some popular festivals in India that Australians can enjoy?
India is a country of vibrant festivals that offer a unique glimpse into its rich culture and traditions. Here are some popular Indian festivals that Australians might enjoy:
Holi:
Often referred to as the “Festival of Colors”, Holi is one of the best-known festivals outside of India1. The festival involves people throwing coloured powder on each other and squirting each other with water guns.
Diwali:
Also known as the “Festival of Lights”, Diwali is one of the most significant festivals in India. It celebrates the victory of light over darkness and good over evil.
Pongal:
This is a four-day harvest festival celebrated in honour of the sun god, Surya2. It marks the beginning of the northward journey of the sun and is usually celebrated around January every year.
Navratri/Durga Puja:
This is a nine-night festival that honours the goddess Durga. It involves fasting, dancing, and culminates in the immersion of Durga idols in water.
Raksha Bandhan:
This festival celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters tie a protective thread around their brothers’ wrists, and in return, brothers give gifts.
Eid-Ul-Fitr:
This festival marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. It involves communal prayers, feasting, and giving of gifts.
Ganesh Chaturthi:
This festival celebrates the birth of Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed god of wisdom and prosperity. It involves creating clay idols of Ganesha, offering prayers, and immersing the idols in water.
Onam:
This is a harvest festival celebrated in the state of Kerala. It involves boat races, tiger dances, elaborate feasts, and the creation of flower rangolis.
Dussehra:
This festival celebrates the victory of Lord Rama over the demon king Ravana. It involves the burning of effigies of Ravana and culminates in the festival of Diwali.
Maha Shivratri:
This festival is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Devotees fast and offer prayers to Shiva throughout the night.
Remember: The dates of these festivals can change each year based on lunar calendars, so it’s always a good idea to check the dates before planning your trip.
Travelling from Sydney to India is a journey from the modern to the ancient, from the familiar to the exotic. So pack your bags and get ready to explore the incredible diversity and richness that India has to offer!
Note: That this is a general guide and the experiences can vary based on personal preferences and local conditions. Always check travel advisories like visacollect.com and local regulations when planning your trip.
Happy Safe travels dear Aussies and enjoy your journey into the diverse heart of Indian culture! 🌍