Top 10 Cultural Cities in India
India is a country that boasts of an amazing blend of cultures, ethnicities, languages, and geographical diversities. The Indian cities are the best avenues to witness this stunning diversity that adorns the country. A tour of theTop 10 Cultural Cities in India is perhaps the perfect way to experience how different and how marvellous the subcontinent can really be.
If you are keen to partake in this fantastic journey that entails mind-blowing variations in cultural forms and traditions, then you must include the following cities in your itinerary.
1. Kolkata, West Bengal
Kolkata, best known as the City of Joy, is also as the Cultural Capital of India. It is one of those urban metropolitan cities in the country that is also a global hotspot for cultural heritage and artistic influence. Kolkata used to be the Capital of the British Empire before Delhi, and still bears colonial influence in some of the pockets. The biggest and grandest festival of the Bengalis, namely Durga Pujo is the real and rare visual treat to all those who witness it. Besides, there are several museums and galleries that preserve the rich heritage of Bengal, including the 200-year-old Indian Museum. Make sure you get West Bengal tour packages for a comprehensive visit through the city and also dig into its delectable range of sweet dishes and local food.
2. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Varanasi is one of the cultural gems of the country. It has an elaborate history and high importance in Hindu mythology. It is one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world. With numerous religious places and the coming together of devotees from across the world, the city makes for a colourful experience. The Ganga Aarti at the Dashashwamedh Ghat is an awe-inspiring ceremony held every day. Besides, a boat ride through the waters of Ganges during sunrise is an experience that cannot be missed. Make sure you explore the Golden Triangle with Varanasi tours.
3. Amritsar, Punjab
Amritsar is the cultural hub of the state of Punjab. The Harmandir Sahib, better known as the Golden Temple is the most important landmark of the city. It is the most important place of worship for the Sikh population worldwide. There are other important landmarks of Indian history such as Jallianwala Bagh and Wagah Border. The numerous bazaars line its streets and one can pick up different varieties of textiles from these. Besides, there is a wide range of street foods available throughout the city and you can soak in the different experiences. Punjab tour packages are ideal to experience the city in all its glory.
4. Jaipur, Rajasthan
Popularly known as Pink City, Jaipur is the capital city of Rajasthan. It showcases the unique culture of Rajasthan through its cuisine, textiles, and lifestyle. The bandhani prints, Mojris, and local handicraft products are found in its numerous bazaars. It served as an important centre of several kingdoms in the past. Its royal stature can be observed through the numerous palaces and stunning forts that dot its landscape. Besides, the architectural marvels like the Jal Mahal and the Panna Meena ka Kund cannot be missed if you visit the city. Get the Rajasthan tour packages to explore this beautiful cultural city.
5. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
Rishikesh is known as the Yoga Capital of the World. Tourists from across the world flock its streets every year for possibly the best Yoga experience in the world. Besides, the city is located along the banks of the Ganges, making it ideal for Yoga and Meditation sessions. The Ganga Aarti is yet another vibrant ceremony that takes place along the banks of the Ganges every day. The streets are filled with Gurus and Sadhus and there are pilgrims visiting from across the country. Overall it is a cultural hotspot and you can visit the city after your Classical Rajasthan tour packages.
6. Puri, Orissa
Puri is one among the four Char Dham destinations which are of utmost importance for all Hindu pilgrims. It is located along the coastline overlooking the gorgeous Bay of Bengal and has exotic beaches frequented by tourists from all over the world. The Puri Beach festival is a famous event that showcases the rich cultural heritage of the region. The city is famous for its artistic legacy which includes the Patta-Chitra work and the Sand art. Besides, the dance forms like Megha dance, Odissi, and Naga dance also add to the unique attractions of the city. Get the Golden Triangle Tour to visit Konark and Bhubaneswar along with Puri or subscribe to Orissa tour packages for a comprehensive trip to the region.
7. Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh
Bhopal is the capital of the state of Madhya Pradesh and was an important centre under the Mughal Dynasty. The remnants of their rule can still be seen in the construction of the city. Besides, it is a culturally rich city. It is famous for numerous festivals including the Lokrang, Ijitma, and National Drama Festival. Delicacies like Bhopali Gosht Korma, Debeli, and Ras Malai will stir your taste buds. Make sure you get Madhya Pradesh Tour Packages for a complete trip to the city.
8. Madurai, Tamil Nadu
Madurai is one of the most culturally vibrant cities in India. It is located in the southern state of Tamil Nadu. It has a rich history of being a centre of rule for several south Indian dynasties and this left numerous historic buildings along its landscape. The most famous of these is the Meenakshi Temple. It has an unparalleled architecture with stunning sculptures of deities along its Gopurams. The city hosts numerous cultural festivals every year. Do not miss the Bharathanatyam dance while on your Tamil Nadu tour packages.
9. Fort Kochi, Kerala
Fort Kochi is the most culturally rich city in Kerala. It was a centre of several foreign rulers including the French, the Dutch and the Portuguese, which has left impressions all over the city in the form of constructions. The major attractions include Jewish Synagogue, Mattancherry Palace, Indo-Portuguese Museum, and the Jew town. The markets are great avenues to pick up handicraft pieces, jewellery, spices, and homemade textile while on your Kerala tour package.
10. Goa
Goa is a beach state of Southern India. It was a former Portuguese colony and the place still reminds visitors of a bygone era. There are numerous beaches, discotheques, shacks, and great hangout retreats along its coast. These are flocked by tourists from worldwide for the rich hospitality and the free-spirited culture one can find here. The folk music, the local drink Feni, and the handicraft scene is worth exploring indeed. Besides, the place is also famous for cashews. You can visit the state on your Classical India Fam Tour.
These ten cities mentioned here are the epitome of the cultural diversity that India is blessed with. However, the diversity and vastness of the country are much more than what you behold in these cities. For that, you will have to secure more time and explore this country in greater depth. But one thing is for sure, you must be prepared to feel amazed at every corner, by this captivating experience that forms Incredible India.
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Very nicely presented article, enjoyed every bit. India is truly a land of diverse cultures.
I am also glad that you have included Puri in the list 🙂
Where is Mysore from Karnataka everybody is blind towards Karnataka don’t know why
Mysore was 11th in the list. Karnataka should not be ignore. It has Hampi , Coorg and Badami