Make your trip to India unforgettable and life-changing by immersing yourself in its incredible culture and heritage. Here are unique cultural experiences for travelers to India who look beyond the usual tourist destinations.
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Indian Culture: An Introduction
India is one of the most diverse, unique, and beautiful countries on earth.
It is also one of the oldest civilizations in the world with a psychedelic diversity and rich cultural heritage.
The immense cultural diversity of India presents limitless opportunities for culturally curious travelers and makes it one of the world’s best destinations for cultural travelers.
There are 28 states and 8 union territories in India. Each state has different weather conditions, and the people of each state speak different languages, eat different foods, wear different clothes, and practice different religions or ethnicities, but they share the same home.
That’s the beauty of India!
This unique amalgamation of ethnic groups, diverse cultures, and religions makes India Incredible.
There’s nowhere else on earth quite like it.
It wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say that you haven’t seen anything in the world if you haven’t seen India.
Indian Culture and Traditions: Unique Travel Experiences in India
On your trip to India, let’s take you through some of the most beautiful ways to experience the culture of India. Are you ready to soak yourself in its local culture and traditions?
Here are the unique cultural experiences to remember in India!
Learn to Practice Namaste (Traditional Indian Greeting)
‘Namaste’ or ‘Namaskar’ is a gesture or mudra of traditional greeting in India, an ancient Hindu custom.
Namaste, meaning ‘I bow to the divine in you,’ is a beautiful way to honor and respect the other person.
We fold our hands, bow our heads a bit, and say namaste to extend a warm welcome to our guests – a friend or a stranger.
In fact, Namaste is even used when we bid adieu. The salutation of Namaste is also used in temples to bow down to the Almighty.
Practicing this gesture in India instantly helps travelers connect and bond with locals.
Due to India’s diversity, there are many regional versions of Namaste. It’s called ‘Namaskaram’ in Malayalam, ‘Vanakkam’ in Tamil, ‘Namaskaragalu’ in Kannada, and so on.
Visit Ancient Temples
India is all about spirituality and philosophy.
A visit to India is incomplete without a visit to one or two of its magnificent temples. It’s one of the best cultural activities in India.
From Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram, Meenakshi Amman Temple in Madurai, and Ramanathaswamy Temple in Rameswaram to Ranakpur Jain Temple in Pali, Sun Temple in Konark, Lotus Temple in New Delhi, Mahakaleshwar in Ujjain, Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi, and Kamakhya Temple in Guwahati – temples in India are a true apotheosis of the ageless and timeless spiritual and cultural traditions of India.
They are works of incredible architecture, steeped in rich history and heritage, and unveil extraordinary religious rituals and ceremonies.
You must learn temple etiquette before visiting temples in India.
Attend Ganga Aarti at Varanasi
One of the most unique experiences in India to Immerse in Indian culture is spending a day or two in the cultural and spiritual capital of India, Varanasi, aka Kashi. There’s a reason Varanasi tops the chart when it comes to the best places in India.
Set on the banks of the River Ganges, the ancient city of Varanasi promises an experience like never before – a life-changing one.
The day in this ancient Indian city begins with the soulful, surreal experience of Subah-e-Banaras (morning Ganga aarti) at Assi Ghat.
After a magical morning prayer, take in the city’s spiritual essence from the holy waters. Watching the sunrise from a boat, with the unpleasant yet compelling sight of pyres burning in the open on iconic ghats (a set of stairs leading to the holy river), is to experience life and death all at once.
A city implicitly teaches you to celebrate death the way you celebrate life.
A walking tour of the old city with a local expert gives you a deeper understanding of this sacred city. He’ll take you through the winding back alleys, stop by ancient havelis, beautiful temples, and spiritual ashrams, and visit famous street vendors serving the delicacies it’s known for while unfolding the backstories.
The day ends here with the divine spectacle of the evening Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat. You can float your own diya (lamp) down the holy river and wish for yourself. A spiritual high.
If you can time your visit to Varanasi around Dev Deepawali (the Diwali of the Gods), you’d be in for a treat. It’s a celebration of Lord Shiva’s victory over evil. Legend has it that the Gods descend to the holy city of Varanasi on this auspicious occasion to take a dip in the holy River Ganga.
As the sun sets, the city is bathed in lights as devotees light over a hundred thousand diyas (earthen lamps), the cosmic sounds of Ganga Aarti create a spiritual aura, and the reflection of lamps in the divine waters of Ganga adds to the experience – a grand spectacle of faith and devotion is nothing short of a miracle.
Take on the Char Dham Yatra
The Chardham yatra (literally meaning “four spiritual abodes”) holds great importance and sacredness in Hinduism.
Deeply rooted in Hindu mythology and scriptures, this yatra has been central to Hindu culture for eons.
With ancient temples and shrines along the way, this timeless journey offers a deep understanding of India’s cultural history and traditions.
Char Dham is a set of four much-revered pilgrimage sites in India: Badrinath, Dwadash Jyotirlingas, Puri, and Rameswaram.
A journey to Badrinath via Yamunotri, Gangotri, and Kedarnath is called the Chota Char Dham, as the spiritual odyssey to four sacred temples is the most difficult.
With a strong belief that it will free them of their sins and help them attain spiritual fulfillment and ultimately moksha (salvation), Hindus take on this extremely arduous journey with great fervor and positivity. It’s their way to show their utter devotion and love for their God.
For Hindus, the Chardham yatra is the most iconic of all journeys they can ever be on in this mortal life.
For world travelers seeking a spiritual awakening in India, a journey through the country’s four most important religious centers is the answer. A rare & divine experience!
Read More: Golden Triangle India: Itinerary & Guide
Visit Religious Places of Varied Faiths
India is home to several ethnicities and religions, each with its own culture and traditions.
The birthplace of Hinduism, Sikhism, Jainism, and Buddhism, India has also heartfully embraced the followers of other faiths – Islam, Christianity, and Judaism. It is also home to the world’s largest Baha’i community.
With over 80% Hindu population being Hindu, Hinduism is the largest religion in India. It’s the oldest in the world.
India’s religious diversity is evident in places of worship across different faiths.
It’s here where temples, mosques, churches, monasteries, synagogues, and gurudwaras co-exist in absolute harmony, and people of all religions respect each other’s faith.
It’s here that the cosmic sound of temple bells, church bells, Gurbani, and namaz blend together to bring euphony.
Apart from visiting temples, you must visit religious sites and places of other faiths in India to experience its religious diversity.
Jama Masjid in Delhi, the Golden Temple in Amritsar, the Ranakpur Jain Temple, Tsuglagkhang in Dharamsala, the Basilica of Bom Jesus in Goa, the Lotus Temple in Delhi, and the Keneseth Eliyahoo Synagogue in Mumbai are recommended spiritual destinations in India.
Stay at a Local Traditional Homestay
Living like a local is the best way to learn more about the authentic culture, customs, and rituals of the country.
Staying in a homestay not only gives travelers a unique, enriching, and immersive cultural experience but also supports the local livelihood.
We in India believe in ‘Atithi Devo Bhava’, which means ‘Guest is God’ and go all out to make the guest comfortable. It’s the spirit of Indian tradition and culture.
We open the doors of our homes and hearts and welcome our guests with pure love and warmth. A taste of Indian traditional hospitality is sure to remain with you for your entire life.
When they open up their homes and hearts to you, it’s your responsibility to take good care of both. It’s vital to practice respect for culture and space and know your boundaries.
A little yet thoughtful gift (souvenir) from your home country is a beautiful way to show gratitude.
Visit a Rural Town or Village
If you want to experience real India, visit one of the villages in India because the soul of India lives in its villages.
Over 70% of the country’s population (mostly farmers) resides in villages and the primary source of national income is agriculture. Rural hamlets are the lifeline of our society and economy.
You gotta see the soul of India to dive deep into its culture. Right?
From escaping the bustling city life, breathing in fresh and pure air, and taking in the beautiful natural beauty and the rustic charm to getting a deeper insight into a rural way of life, hands-on local handicrafts experience, and supporting the local community – a trip to an Indian village is sure to be a remarkably beautiful experience.
Visit Heritage Sites and Historical Monuments
India, one of the oldest cultures in the world, is known for its rich heritage and history.
The best way to understand and appreciate the heritage and architecture of India is to visit some of its many historic treasures.
Named sone ki chidiya (golden bird) in the past, India was famous around the world for being the land of wealth and values that attracted foreigners to invade and rob the country.
From Persians, Arabs, Turks, Afghans, and Mongols to Mughals, Iranians, Greeks, and Britishers – varied invaders left their own mark on the state that’s visible in its monuments.
And then there are Indian kings and queens, our heroes. The colossal forts, beautiful palaces, sublime temples, and many other notable monuments narrate the stories of their courage and bravery.
The most impressive heritage sites in India include the Taj Mahal in Agra, Nalanda in Rajgir, Ajanta and Ellora caves in Aurangabad, Humayun’s Tomb in Delhi, Khajuraho in Chhatrpur, Kumbhalgarh Fort, Chittorgarh Fort, Mehrangarh Fort, and Mysore Palace.
Visit a Museum or Two
Museums preserve and celebrate the invaluable cultural and historical heritage of any country.
India also has a wealth of museums (over 1,000) where you can relive Indian history and explore cultural, religious, and archeological treasures.
The most important cultural institutions in India include the national museums maintained by the Ministry of Culture.
Established in 1814, the Indian Museum in Kolkata is the first-ever public museum in India. It’s the largest and oldest museum in Asia and the 9th oldest in the world. Its exhibits depict the cultural history of India from the prehistoric age to the Mughal period.
The National Museum in Delhi, the Salar Jung Museum in Hyderabad, Victoria Memorial in Kolkata, and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya in Mumbai portray different aspects of the rich culture and heritage of India.
Oft, museums across India hold interactive programs and special exhibitions that offer travelers across the world a chance to dive deep into the history & culture of India.
Take a Home Cooking Class or Join a Food Tour
Food and culture are closely linked. In fact, food is a window into local culture and customs.
Traditional food gives you an insight into native crops, local ingredients, unique cooking methods, recipes, and serving practices. It is passed down from one generation to the next and thus, holds interesting past stories too.
The taste and aroma of certain delicacies bring nostalgia. We often taste a food item and compliment saying that it carries the taste of the mother’s hands. Because there are so many memories attached to them. That particular food holds a beautiful family backstory.
The festivals, celebrations, and family gatherings are incomplete without food. It binds us together. It keeps us together. It makes us know the importance of sharing food with loved ones.
Becoming aware of the local food scene and culinary traditions is one of the best ways to have an enriching cultural experience.
And when it comes to India, It’s one of the most culinary-diverse nations and also has influences from the foreign cultures that have ruled India or visited for trade.
Indian food traditions are deeply rooted in social customs, religious beliefs, and cultural diversity.
The flavors of north, south, east, and west are utterly distinct. The food traditions evolve according to the climate, religion, and locally available ingredients.
However, spices remain the most common ingredient of Indian cuisine. You can’t write off the role of spices in Indian food and history.
Spices do more than impart flavor to Indian food. These aromatic earthy spices have magical health benefits.
Indian food tradition is strongly interwoven with the nutritional and therapeutic value of the food ingredients and the traditional methods of preparation.
In Indian culture, food is treated as God (Annapurna) and we treat it with the highest gratitude, respect, and generosity, that’s often expressed by sharing it with others. We offer food to our diety and thank Him before consuming it.
In essence, book a cooking session with a local or join a food tour to get a real taste of the culinary traditions of India.
Gorge on Indian Street Food
With food as rich and diverse as the country itself, India truly has an incredible culinary scene.
And street food is the essence of the story. The Indian street food scene is a flavorful and unforgettable experience – a sensory overload in a real sense.
Some of the delicacies are indigenous which truly define Indian culture and traditions while some have roots in foreign invaders like Afghans, Mughals, and British, and relishing them is like tasting a slice of history.
Our culture has adopted and combined foods and tastes from different ethnicities and given them a special place on our plates.
Like, our very own beloved samosa, the king of Indian snacks was never ours. It traveled to India around the 14th century and never went back!
Similarly, chaat, a street snack that brings about an explosion of flavors, sweet-spicy-tangy-savory, in a single bite, is also believed to be invented by the Mughals. It, now, is synonymous with Indian street food.
We embrace all!
You must know, despite being a significant part of our culture and identity, street food in India is simply irresistible and it’s a shame not to try it when you are in India!
While you overindulge in the scrumptious delicacies, don’t forget to safeguard yourself from the infamous Delhi Belly!
Ride a Rickshaw
The wooden-wheeled hand-pulled rickshaws were brought to India in 1880 and were later replaced by cycle rickshaws in the 1940s. You can still ride the hand-pulled rickshaws in the city of joy, Kolkata.
A ride in a traditional cycle rickshaw lets you experience the colors, sights, smells, sounds, and symphonies of daily life in India up close.
The best places to enjoy a rickshaw ride are Old Delhi, Jaipur, Varanasi, Lucknow, Amritsar, Kolkata, and Pondicherry.
A rickshaw ride through the narrow and winding alleys of Old Delhi brings out the authentic culture and heritage of the historic core of Delhi.
From the sights of ancient architecture, and the colors of bazaars, to the smell of mouth-watering Indian food, and the sounds of lively local life – hopping on a rickshaw is one of the most beautiful local experiences you can have in India.
Take a Train Journey
Growing up, I frequently traveled via train to meet our relatives in other Indian states. Train journeys shaped a significant part of my life. I looked forward to it.
For me, it was an opportunity to gorge on delicious food. A journey via train was solely defined by food, home-cooked delicacies neatly packed by my mom, especially for a train journey, and then street snacks, mostly fried, purchased from food vendors.
A lovely chit-chat and bonding and food-sharing with fellow passengers, relishing a cup of masala chai, gazing endlessly outside the window, getting off at stations to stretch your leg, observing people at crowded railway platforms, and much more – one of the best ways to experience India is by traveling by train because these train journeys beautifully reflect the authentic culture and heritage of India.
Mountain Railways of India – UNESCO World Heritage Centre
Attend a Traditional Indian Wedding
Weddings in India are a big affair. The ceremonies are colorful, extravagant, lively, intricately planned, and rich in culture, traditions, and values.
Marriages in India are not only the celebration of the union of two souls, but the coming together of two families, cultures, and traditions.
Marriage is more than a social contract in India. It’s sacred as per Hindu traditions.
The marriage ceremonies are spread over a couple of days with each giving a reflection on the rituals, elaborate costumes, jewelry, food, music and so much more.
There are quite a few mini-ceremonies aka pre-wedding ceremonies like sangeet, haldi, and mehndi, and the main ceremony, the actual wedding day, and the post-wedding ceremonies like vidai, griha pravesh, mooh dikhai, pag phera, and reception.
The unique part of weddings is that the rituals, traditions, and ceremonies vary in every state across India.
A Punjabi wedding is extraordinarily lavish and loud (a big fat Indian wedding) while a Maharashtrian wedding is more of a simple and intimate affair. With age-old rituals and traditions, a Bengali wedding and a South Indian wedding are a real treat for culturally curious people.
It’s easy to get invited to an Indian wedding with online platforms like Join My Wedding where Indian couples register and invite foreign travelers who are keen to attend a traditional Indian wedding for a culturally immersive experience.
Take Part in Kumbh Mela
The largest human gathering in the world and the world’s most massive act of faith – Kumbh Mela is the greatest spiritual festival on earth. This transcendental tradition dates back over a thousand years.
Listed as UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, this festival of devotion is celebrated four times over the course of 12 years (astrological significance) spanning four pilgrimages on four sacred rivers, Prayagraj (formerly Allahabad) on Triveni Sangam (confluence of Ganges, Jamuna, and Saraswati), Haridwar on the Ganges, Ujjain on Shipra, and Nashik on the Godavari.
And Maha Kumbh is held in Prayagraj every 144 years.
Devotees gather in millions to bathe in the holy rivers believing that it’ll rid them of their past sins (karma) and help them achieve salvation from the circle of life and death. Their unwavering faith and devotion are mind-boggling.
The presence of Naga Sadhus, Kalpwasis, and Urdhawavahurs is the most appealing part of the fair. They leave their lives of isolation only for this pilgrimage.
Considered the custodians of faith and devotion, they enjoy the honor of taking the first holy dip in the sacred waters. Their ritual bath is considered the major event and is named Shahi Snan (royal bath).
Kumbh Mela attracts foreign travelers who are eager to get to the heart of Indian culture and traditions.
Attend an Indian Festival
The variety of festivals celebrated in India embodies its rich art, cultural, and religious diversity.
For us, festivals are a great way to come together and celebrate our age-old traditions. We make them larger-than-life celebrations.
Attending one of the cultural celebrations in India gives you an insight into the locals’ lives, customs, and traditions and lets you understand the deep-rooted culture and rich history of India.
It’s your chance to experience the essence of the destination.
By far, Holi is the Indian festival of choice for foreign travelers. This colorful and fun festival is featured on every traveler’s bucket list for India.
Though there are many loud and crazy Holi parties that take place around India, however, celebrating Holi with a local family promises a more authentic and culturally immersive experience.
In my opinion,Delhi, Rajasthan, particularly Jaipur and Udaipur, and Mathura-Vrindavan are the best cities in India to celebrate Holi for foreigners.
Practice Yoga
Dating back to 5,000 years ago, yoga is a spiritual, traditional, and time-honored Indian practice for holistic wellness. Backed by science, It helps one to balance the mind, body, and soul via physical postures, breathing exercises, and meditation.
More than a physical practice, yoga is a way of life. It has the power to transform lives.
Practicing this ancient art helps you connect with your spiritual self making you calmer, happier, and healthier.
Yoga is a beautiful way to learn, understand, and form a connection with the history, spirituality, and cultural heritage of India. Plus, you are rewarded with a healthy you 🙂
And what better place to practice yoga than in India? After all, India is the birthplace of yoga. India remains the dream destination for travelers across the world seeking to connect with themselves.
The best destinations that celebrate the ancient Indian tradition of yoga in India are Rishikesh, Dharamsala, Varanasi, Varkala, Wayanad, Auroville, Goa, Gokarna, Pune, and Mysore.
Some of the best yoga retreats and ashrams across the country include the Himalayan Iyengar Yoga Centre in Dharamkot, Ananda In The Himalayas in Narendra Nagar, Yoga Niketan Ashram in Rishikesh, Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Dhanwantri Ashram in Trivandrum, Isha Yoga Centre in Coimbatore, and the Yoga House in Varanasi.
Indulge in Ayurveda
Ayurveda is the ancient indigenous system of medicine in India that has a natural and holistic approach. With a history of more than 5000 years, it, indeed, is the oldest system of medicine on Earth.
Known as the Science of Life, Ayurveda rejuvenates and heals the body, mind, and soul.
Travelers from all around the world flock to India to experience age-old cultural wellness and health traditions. Our ancient knowledge helps them lead a stress-free and healthful life.
Set in the cradle of mother nature, there’s a range of wellness retreats in India that practice Ayurveda to cure diseases and restore physical as well as mental health.
Famed as the land of Ayurveda, Kerala remains the top destination in India when it comes to Ayurveda. Perumbayil Ayurveda Mana, Somatheeram, Kalari Kovilakom, Ayurveda Yoga Villa, and Carnoustie Ayurveda & Wellness Resort are some of the most famous ayurvedic resorts in Kerala.
Learn to Wear a Sari
The sari or saree is the most popular traditional Indian ethnic wear. It not only embodies the essence of Indian culture but also renders elegance and oomph to women in India.
Indian sari is, undoubtedly, one of the most beautiful and sensual attire in the world.
This simple 5 to 9-yard-long piece of fabric brings out the beauty and grace in every woman. Every fold and every drape unfolds a beautiful story of deep-rooted tradition and culture.
With specialized fabric, unique designs, prodigious techniques, and inordinate expertise – each region or state has its own version of the traditional sari.
The most popular versions are Banarasi, Kantha, Kanjivaram, Paithani, Bandhani, Ashavali, Kasavu, Baluchari, Chanderi, Kalamkari, and many more.
And, interestingly, the sari can be draped in over 100 different ways. Talk about versatility! Each region has a unique way of draping a sari that reveals its cultural heritage and traditional customs.
Having said that, the Indian sari is more than just a costume. It’s the symbol of national pride, a representative of great craftsmanship, and a portrayal of India’s culture and diversity.
And I know, you must be excited to drape this beauty but are contemplating how.
Well, your Indian friends can help you with that. If you don’t have any in India, yet, you can head to the sari school.
Located in Jangpura Extension in New Delhi, Rta Kapur Chishti, a sari expert, and historian will not only make you learn the art of sari wearing but also take you through its history.
Go Shopping in Traditional Indian Bazaars
India is a shopper’s paradise! Shopaholic or not, you’ll go mad here. There’s so much to buy and that too at affordable prices. Plus, there’s so much to see, feel, and learn!
Customers bargaining with shopkeepers; chai wallahs making tea over open fires; bikes, cycle rickshaws, pedestrians, and cows weaving their way through the throngs, aroma of diverse street food items, children playing a pickup game of cricket – bursting with life, energy, and colors, the frenzied bazaars of India celebrate its people and diversity.
A traveler seeking an authentic experience in India has to wander through its traditional bazaars (markets). There’s history and cultural identity attached to them.
These ancient markets have been an important element of India’s cultural past, economy, and social life.
An important center of trade and commerce in ancient India, making your way through the pulsating and colorful Indian bazaars is like turning the pages of a history book.
We have glitzy and luxurious shopping malls in India, but the soul of India lies in crazy traditional bazaars.
The most iconic bazaars you must add to your itinerary for India are Chandani Chowk in Delhi, Johri Bazaar in Jaipur, New Market in Kolkata, Laad Bazaar in Hyderabad, Ima Keithal in Imphal, Jew Town in Kochi, Kannauj Market in Kannauj, Devaraja Market in Mysore, Chor Bazaar in Mumbai, Flea Market in Goa, and Aminabad Market in Lucknow.
When in Chandani Chowk, venture into the narrow and crowded lanes of Khari Baoli, the biggest spice market in Asia, and buy authentic spices to take back home.
Learn Folk or Tribal Art
Folk and tribal art beautifully define the rich culture, heritage, and history of India.
The tribes and ethnic groups in India express their unique and deep-rooted folk traditions, cultures, values, beliefs, religion, mythology, and ancient folklore through beautiful arts and crafts.
The rich tradition of folk art has survived the passage of time and is passed on from one generation to another.
Looking at traditional artworks is like listening to centuries-old stories.
India is home to over 100 traditional folk and tribal arts. Some of the most popular folk or ethnic art forms of India are Madhubani, Patachitra, Nirmal, Gond, Phad, Warli, Kalamkari, Tanjore, and Kalighat.
If you are keen to learn and know more about rich artistic heritage and culture, Indian folk or tribal art is the way!
Make sure you visit some of the artisan villages in India, meet the artisans themselves, and spend some time learning the nitty gritty of traditional Indian folk art and crafts.
Meet One of the Unique Tribes of India
India is home to over 700 tribes. They are a significant part of the diverse cultural heritage of India.
The indigenous people (Adivasis) have their own individuality. Each tribal community has its own culture, traditions, beliefs, rituals, religion, language, cuisine, festivals, costumes, and folk music and dance.
They live a simple, grounded, and eco-friendly life and stay connected to their roots. They appreciate nature and its elements and worship them as God. Love and respect the forest and it will take care of you – this is what they strive for.
They heavily count on agriculture and handicrafts for their livelihood.
Each community specializes in a particular kind of handicraft — painting, textiles, pottery, basketry, bamboo crafts, wood art, paper crafts, leather crafts, metalwork, ironwork, and more.
Despite different lifestyles, they have one thing in common – they are ignorant of everything that’s going on around the world and are quite happy with their detached lives.
Gonds, Bhils, Santhal, Khasi, Munda, Garo, Bhutia, Nyishi, Warli, Bodo, Toda, Great Andamanese, and Apatani are some of the major tribes of India, spread across different corners of the country.
Spending a day in the life of a tribal is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, for sure because you get to meet and know people who are starkly different from us. It’s altogether a different world you venture into.
However, if you are really keen on tribal or ethnic tourism, you must take great care and caution so it doesn’t have any negative implications. Be aware of their rights and dignity. Let it be the welfare of the community.
You can help them sustain their livelihoods and traditions by making others aware of the talented tribal artisans and weavers.
Visit only if you truly and genuinely are interested in their vibrant culture and way of life, not just for an exotic experience.
Also, it’s vital that you seek permission before you click pictures of the tribal locals.
Let it be a pure and enriching experience for you and for them too. Taking a holistic approach is the way to go.
Attend an Indian Classical Music Event or Festival
Music and culture have been closely interwoven. In fact, music is clearly an expressive language of culture and identity. It beautifully reflects traditional stories, beliefs, and ways of life.
With a history spanning millennia, Indian classical music is a rich and beautiful tradition of music. It’s more than a source of entertainment for Indians. It’s food for the soul.
Indian classical music is knitted to nature and spirituality. Musicians take inspiration from natural phenomena like seasons and times of the day and spiritual or religious experiences. It’s pure, meditative, peaceful, immersive, uplifting, and transcendental.
Over the centuries, classical music in India has evolved into two distinct styles, Hindustani, originating in North India, and Carnatic music, originating in South India.
For a holistic experience, a live concert or event is the way to go. Let the maestros of Indian classical music take you to another world.
Witness or Learn Any Indian Dance Form
From Bharatanatyam, Kathakali, Kathak, and Kuchipudi to Mohiniyattam, Odissi, and Ghoomar – each Indian state has its unique dance form.
The trip to India is incomplete without witnessing a classical or folk dance out of the many.
The soothing music weaved into rich mythological and religious stories, mesmerizing facial expressions leave the viewer enthralled.
The elegant dances are complimented by beautiful costumes, accessories, and makeup.
Watch a Bollywood Movie
Cinema plays a significant role in almost every Indian’s life and thus, is a huge part of Indian culture.
Indian movies truly reflect the way society and its beliefs have evolved over the centuries. They not only reflect the culture and history but shape it.
Indian cinema and Indian culture are intertwined and go hand in hand. You can’t talk about Indian culture and not mention Indian cinema.
Bollywood aka Hindi cinema is the largest film industry in India and the second largest in the world.
If you want to be better acquainted with Indian culture, watch one of the timeless Bollywood movies. If you don’t know Hindi well, watch it with subtitles.
Some of my favorite Bollywood movies (that I recommend) are English Vinglish, Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, The Lunchbox, Tamasha, Jab We Met, Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani, Chak De India, Lakshay, Chennai Express, 3 Idiots, Hum Aapke Hain Kaun, and Dil Chahta Hai.
Try Masala Chai at Chai Tapri
In India, chai is more than just a cup of tea, it’s a ritual.
The tea tradition in India is matchless. Indians be like – anything for the love of tea.
From humble chai tapris to upscale chai cafés – you’ll find outlets serving a cup of masala chai just about anywhere, literally, in every nook and cranny.
You can taste endless versions of tea in India, but there’s nothing like kulhad chai. Kulhad is a traditional clay cup from ancient India that enhances the tea experience by adding an earthy aroma to the chai.
Try Traditional South Indian Filter Kaapi
Closely intertwined with Indian culture, Filter kaapi is an Indian version of coffee brewed using a traditional Indian filter. From Degree coffee, Meter coffee, and Mysore coffee to Madras coffee – it’s known by varied names.
Filter coffee was a staple in South Indian households way before the cafe culture began in India. It’s an integral part of South India’s culinary heritage and a sip of it takes you on a cultural journey through the region. This is one of the authentic coffee traditions around the world you need to experience.
This authentic South Indian brew tastes super delicious. To be honest, as a coffee connoisseur, I’d prefer a cup of freshly brewed filter kaapi over instant coffee, any day.
Traditionally, kaapi is served in a silver or brass tumbler and davarah, and it’s artfully poured back and forth between them to bring the coffee to a drinking temperature so you can fully relish every sip.
Filter kaapi is an emotion in South India, the way masala chai is in North India.
Learn an Indian Language
You can easily travel across India if you only speak English as most people can understand, write, and speak English.
Some locals might not be fluent but would be able to converse in basic English.
In fact, it, along with Hindi, is an official language used for central administrative purposes in India.
However, language and culture are closely intertwined and if you really want to get under the skin of India, learning an Indian language will help you better understand India, its ways, and its people.
It opens up the opportunity to dive deep into the country and its nuances.
It’s always a good idea to learn a few basic words or excerpts of Hindi or a local language of a specific region or state you intend to visit.
Spoken by over 40% of the population, Hindi is the main and most widely used language of India, but over 20 different official languages are spoken here.
Watch a Traditional Indian Game or Sport
From time immemorial, sports have been an indispensable part of world culture.
Likewise, the rich culture and history of India are deeply rooted in traditional sports and games. They are an important pillar of the country’s intangible cultural heritage.
Kabaddi, a form of Indian martial art, is one of the most popular traditional sports in India. In ancient India, young warriors used to play this game to enhance their physical strength and speed.
Kushti, A freestyle wrestling, is another ancient game of India. Aka pehlwani or dangal, kushti is contested in the Olympic Games but the real treat is to catch this age-old ancient tradition in one of the best akhadas (traditional gym) in India, especially in Haryana, Punjab, and Uttar Pradesh.
And it’s impossible to talk about the indigenous sports in India and not mention Kalaripayattu. After all, this 3000-year-old martial art form originating from Kerala is the mother of all martial arts! It’s a unique game that blends defense techniques, yoga, dance, and traditional healing systems. C.V.N. Kalari in Thiruvananthapuram is one of the best places in Kerala to witness kalarippayattu.
Last but not least, you must also catch a game of hockey, the national game of India. There are a number of great hockey stadiums in India where you can enjoy a game of hockey.
That’s a local guide to experiencing Indian culture and traditions! Have you ever been to India? What are the intriguing cultural experiences you had in India? What did you love the most about Indian culture?
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