No matter which city you visit in India, you’ll find a rich culture and be welcomed with warm hospitality. But there are some cities that are more popular than others for their sights, sounds, and tastes. They offer a uniquely Indian experience – from the colors of Rajasthan to the flavors of Kerala. So without further ado, here is our list of seven culturally-rich-cities-of-India:
1. Chandigarh
The Union Territory of Chandigarh is often referred to as the “best planned city in India.” It was built in the 1950s, with the help of Le Corbusier, a Swiss-French architect who also helped design cities like Paris and Chandigarh’s inspiration, the city of Brasilia. Today, visitors flock to this city for both its architecture and its great location. A new pearl of a town rises on the horizon every year, making it one of India’s most visited cities.
2. Lucknow
The capital of Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow was founded by Nawab Asaf-ud-daula in 1775. While it began as an inconspicuous town, today it is considered one of the top education hubs in India. It is also the home of the popular “Awadhi cuisine,” which is known for its strained richness. Lucknow left an indelible mark on the history of modern India – and continues to influence it to this day.
3. Mumbai
Mumbai, a bustling city also known as Bombay, has always been a center for business and commerce in India. But there’s much more to it than that – including art, music, and culture found nowhere else in the country. You can find everything from the world-famous Gateway of India to the ancient Elephanta caves, right here.
4. Chennai
India’s fourth-largest city is a cultural hub for both the country and its coastal neighbors. Chennai is best known for its Dravidian culture and Tamil language, but it also has many other charms. It’s home to several Indian classical dance schools and a vibrant theater scene that attracts both visitors and local talent alike. In fact, there are numerous theaters in the city dedicated to everything from drama to dance. So if you’re looking for a place where culture thrives, look no further than Chennai!
5. Aurangabad
Aurangabad is an ancient city located in the Marathwada region of Maharashtra. It was the capital of Hyder Ali and his son, Tipu Sultan. The surrounding area is home to some of India’s most illustrious architecture, thanks to its wealthy rulers. Modern-day Aurangabad is a busy town that has plenty of art to see and many different varieties of food to eat. You can even find some amazing antiques here, like wooden statues carved by the royal family itself!
6. Pune
An old city located in the state of Maharashtra, Pune was once known as Pratapgad or “place of victory.” It was once on an important trade route and later became a major industrial center in the country. Today, it’s known as one of the most educated cities in India due to its colleges and universities. It offers a lively mix of old and new, as you can find museums dedicated to both Indian and Western art here. Pune is also home to some of the nation’s most creative architecture, from several amazing examples of Gaudi’s work, to modern structures designed by renowned architect Gottfried Dannecker.
7. Ahmedabad
Ahmedabad is located in Gujarat, which is known for its rich cultural heritage. This city is often referred to as “the Manchester of the East,” and it preserves much of India’s textile heritage. Ahmedabad can feel like a bustling Western metropolis at times, but it also has a lot of charm. From fine restaurants to great bars and pubs, this city has just about everything you would expect in a big city! However, you’ll still find some amazing traditional Indian food here too – at affordable prices!
8. Kolkata
Kolkata, or Calcutta, is where three of India’s biggest rivers meet. It was founded in the 1600s by the British East India Company and named after their headquarters in West Bengal. Kolkata is known for its culture and heritage as well as its festivals, which include some of the largest celebrations on the planet. Some visitors love it for its colonial feel, others for its burgeoning metropolis – but everyone loves it for being one of India’s most diverse cities! So why not start planning your next vacation to Kolkata today?
9. Varanasi
Varanasi is a city located on the banks of the Ganges River in Uttar Pradesh. It is also considered the cultural capital of India. It is one of the oldest living cities in the world and was once a center for art, culture and religion. Today, it’s a bustling town full of temples, shops, and bazaars that attract tourists from all over the world. Some people believe that Varanasi will be one of the first cities to be part of an intergalactic community after the Earth’s destruction!
10. Kerela
Kerela is known for its beautiful beaches as well as its food! It has over 500km (310 miles) of pristine coastline with many secluded beaches for you to explore. And there’s also the tastiest seafood you’ll find in India! So if you’re looking for a place to slow down and enjoy life, Kerela is a great option. Just remember that it gets very hot here in the summer months!
There are many other wonderful cities to visit in India. Most travelers tend to stick close to the main tourist spots like New Delhi, Mumbai and Goa. However if you want to experience something truly special then try one of these locations – with some spectacular sights and flavors – instead, which offer an altogether different type of experience than the usual big Indian city break.
It’s clear that there’s something for everyone in India; from the vibrant colors and sounds of Rajasthan to the spicy flavors of Kerala, each region is unique. So make sure you take in as many of the wonderful sights, sounds and tastes that this beautiful country has to offer. After all, there’s really no other place like India. And, who knows? You could just find yourself picking up some lifelong travel habits along the way.
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