Imagine a place where the bright colors of the markets merge with the scent of spices, where ancient palaces tell stories of maharaja and lost kingdoms, and where every corner hides an emotion that will change you forever. Welcome to India, a country you do not visit, but you live. If it is your first time in India, prepare for an experience that will leave you breathless: from the vibrant chaos of New Delhi to the timeless magic of the Taj Mahal, from the pink cities of Rajasthan to the sacred shores of the Ganges in Varanasi. This article is your essential guide to discover the places not to be missed, organize your itinerary and immerse yourself in a journey you will never forget. Ready to go?
Considering the vastness of the country, first of all you have to decide where to go the first time in India what to see and define the route according to the time and budget available. Typically the classic India tour touches New Delhi, the Rajasthan and Varanasi, destinations that will not only make you love it, but will leave you in an ominous desire to return.
India Tour from New Delhi
The Tour India departs from New Delhi, of course, the capital, also because it usually coincides with the arrival of the intercontinental flight Italy-India.
Keep strong, because the first impact with India, made of sounds, colors, smells, heat and chaos, is of those who do not forget and the visit of the city also serves to this, to acclimatize you to another rhythm of life that, even if you do not immediately realize, has already conquered you.
Visiting unique monuments such as India Gate, symbol of national unity, the minaret Qutb Minar and the solemn Tomb of Humayun, considered the ancestor of the Taj Mahal, you will gradually discover the glorious past of India and you will inevitably want to know more, immerse yourself in its ancestral culture, perhaps even enter the palaces of the Maharajas.
The Magic of Rajasthan
Nothing easier. To find all the suggestions of historical India, just go Rajasthan, the north-western region which was the cradle of princely kingdoms. In Jaipur you will be welcomed by the rose of the buildings of the historic center, painted this color, symbol of hospitality, by the Maharaja on the occasion of the visit of the Prince of Wales, over a century ago. 
Most of the most sumptuous residences of the time have now become luxury hotels, but for a long time, do not miss the visit of the City Palace, a huge complex that also houses a museum and is still the residence of the Maharaja of Jaipur.
Princess Jaipur
On a hill outside the city, there is the majestic Amber Fort, a fortress with sumptuous interiors that contrast not little with the austerity of the outside. With the heat the climb on foot to the fort can be quite tiring for the less trained. Then do as the ancient Maharajas and take advantage of an elephant back passage, which besides being definitely more comfortable, is also fun.
Go back to the city, then, you will certainly not miss the Hawaii Mahal, commonly called Palazzo dei Venti, an imposing facade dotted with hundreds of windows protected by finely worked grates, through which court women could peek on the street below without being seen. 
Not far from there, take a look at the Jantar Mantar, undoubtedly one of the most bizarre and curious monuments of the city. In fact, it is an outdoor astronomical observatory, where you can get around among huge astronomical instruments built in stone.
Wonderful Taj Mahal
At this point, if you have time available, you can continue your travel to India towards Jodhpur, Jaisalmer and other cities of Rajasthan. Otherwise, your next goal could be Agra, where one of the seven wonders of the world awaits you, or the mythical Taj Mahal, an absolute must of every India tour. 
His story is known: he was built by a Moghul emperor in memory of his wife, prematurely dead.
For its construction therefore did not take care of expenses, employing the most precious materials and marbles, including thousands of precious stones from all over theAsia. Although it is a mausoleum, it is actually considered a temple to love and for this is a must for lovers and couples on a wedding trip.
The Mysticism of Varanasi
All the other atmosphere you will find in Varanasi, which I suggest you as next stage. The sacred city of Hindus on Ganges is as chaotic as you can imagine, but also a place of great mysticism, where you will perceive the most authentic essence of India.
Located on the banks of the sacred Ganges River, this city is a vortex of spirituality, chaos and beauty that wraps you up from the first moment. In addition to the famous evening ceremony of bramini and ablutions at dawn, Varanasi offers a myriad of attractions and experiences that will take you to the heart of Indian culture and tradition.
The Ghat of Varanasi: Where Spirituality Takes Life
The ghats, the steps that descend towards the Ganges, are the pulsating heart of Varanasi. There are over 80, each with a unique history and meaning. Among the most iconic:
Dashashwamedh Ghat: The most famous ghat, where every evening the spectacular Ganga Aarti ceremony is held, a ritual of lights, songs and prayers celebrating the sacred river.
Manikarnika Ghat: Known as the ghat of cremation, it is a place of deep reflection on life and death. Here, the funeral pyres burn day and night, in a ritual that sinks the roots in the Hindu tradition.
Assi Ghat: A quieter place, ideal to meditate or witness the early ablutions of pilgrims. It is also the point where the Assi River flows into the Ganges.
The Sacred Temples: A Journey to Devotion
Varanasi is dotted with temples, each with a unique history and energy. Among the most significant:
Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Dedicated to Shiva, it is one of the most sacred temples in India. His shivalinga (Shiva symbol) is considered one of the most powerful in the country. Caution: Access is regulated by strict safety standards, so prepare for long queues.
Temple of Sankat Mochan: This temple, dedicated to Hanuman (the monkey god), is a place of peace and devotion. It is said that visiting him brings relief from the difficulties of life.
Temple of Durga: Known for the many monkeys inhabiting it, this temple is dedicated to the goddess Durga. Its red architecture and lively atmosphere make it a fascinating stage.
Unique Cultural Experiences
Varanasi is not only a city to see, but to experiment. Here are some experiences that will give you indelible memories:
Boat ride early in the morning: In the early hours of the day, when the sun rises slowly on the Ganges, the river becomes a golden mirror. A boat trip will allow you to observe the city from a unique perspective, while hordes of pilgrims dive into ablutions in sacred waters and priests begin their prayers. Assisting is an emotion that you will hardly forget.
Visit to an ashram: Varanasi is famous for its ashrams, spiritual centers where you can participate in meditation sessions, yoga and devotional songs. It is an opportunity to immerse yourself in Indian spirituality and find a moment of peace away from the chaos of the city.
Exploration of the labyrinth alleys: Lost among the narrow and crowded lanes of Varanasi, where each corner hides a surprise: small temples, flower stalls offered to deities, spice shops and craftsmen at work. It is a sensory experience that will take you to the authentic heart of the city.
India Tour Planner
The india is proposed as a group trip by numerous tour operators, including Youth Travel, of which I have already spoken here, but it also lends itself to DIY. Being a complex country, if it is your first trip to India the best solution is to entrust you with a travel planner, who knows not only create your own India tour tailor made and choose hotels with the best value for money, but also recommend What to see in India, suggest the most engaging excursions and experiences to make you live the best and without stress this wonderful country.
