Exploring the Wonders of North India and South India: Do we Pick North or South?
India is tremendously diversified, with both North and South India offering awe-inspiring cultural and culinary experiences, as well as breathtaking natural beauty. India is bounded to the north by the steep Himalayas and to the south by the huge Indian Ocean. The majesty of Rajasthan against the peacefulness of Kerala’s backwaters. Idlis and dosas versus butter chicken. Each encounter is as pleasant, vivid, and deeply fascinating as the last.
With so much to see and do, deciding on an area to visit is a difficult task. Have a look at our useful guide to help you decide whether to visit North or South India.
Up in The North!
Think again if you thought North India was exclusively about the Golden Triangle of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur. It is a true treasure trove of culture and civilization, with Hindu and Mughal influences. Here is the India of your fantasies, complete with intriguing forts, bearded men, painted elephants, and tall glasses of lassi, India’s favorite yogurt-based refresher.
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Begin in Delhi, India’s capital, which is famed for its diverse cultural and gastronomic offerings. Go down the Yamuna Expressway to Agra for a Taj Mahal tour. This picture-perfect paean to love is Mumtaz Mahal’s last burial place, erected in her honor by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan.
Then there’s colorful Rajasthan, the country of maharajas, where mythology, passion, and heroism echo beyond fortified walls. Visit Jaipur and Jodhpur, the pink and blue cities.
Traveling between towns takes time and often necessitates the use of many forms of transportation. You should always plan on many five- to seven-hour road trips. Overnight bus and train rides from Jaipur are among the most popular routes to reach Jaisalmer, while flights from Jaipur, Mumbai, and Delhi are also available.
Ranthambore National Park, one of India’s most prominent wildlife sanctuaries, is also located in Rajasthan. Visitors have a good possibility of seeing the Bengal Tiger here, as well as other native species.
Additional attractions in North India are Amritsar, known for its Golden Temple, and Shimla, a highland town. Shimla, located in the Himalayan foothills, is best accessible by riding the Himalayan Queen Toy Train and offers numerous climbing options.
What’s the Food like in North India?
Although the cuisine of India varies widely by state, the fundamental variation is between the North and the South. North Indian cuisine is mainly composed of sumptuous meat and vegetable dishes served with flatbread such as naan and roti.
The dishes are moderately spicy, with thick tomato, onion, and yogurt-based sauces. Tandoori chicken is a famous example, with the term referring to the deep clay oven used to cook food, known as a tandoor. Popular meals include Butter Chicken and Rogan Josh.
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Down South
South India, in contrast to the desert and mountains of the north, has undulating hills, tropical woods, and green tea plantations that are maintained lush by the barrelled monsoon. With numerous temples, and the picturesque Kerala Backwaters as a highlight, this less-visited region is ideal for second-time travelers to India.
South India is just as enticing as the North, with gold-laden idols within lavish temples, cultural landmarks, and Ayurveda therapies. However, different identities, dialects, and local cultures distinguish South India from the north.
The first thing you’ll notice on your South India tour is the temperature, which is more tropical than the north, with its humidity and warmth. South India is home to incredible wildlife, beautiful beaches, and tranquil backwaters. Sail across Kerala’s backwaters and see the slow pace of life in South Indian communities. A magnificent Alleppey houseboat trip is a must in God’s Own Country’s palm-fringed canals.
Visit Nagarhole Wildlife Park, a refuge for elephants and tigers. Scuba dive at Havelock, Andamans, or go bamboo rafting in Periyar.
Let’s Talk about Food
South Indian cuisine is centered on rice, which is grown throughout the region. The cereal is consumed boiled, steamed, and in a variety of forms, including idlis, savory rice cakes, and dosas, savory pancakes. Chilies, tamarind, curry leaves, and spices are frequently used in curries.
Temples and French Architecture
South India is home to several beautiful temples that provide fascinating insights into the region’s history and culture. The majestic Rock Fort Temple may be seen at Trichy, while the spectacular Shore Temple on the Bay of Bengal can be found in Mahabalipuram.
The most stunning of them all, though, is Meenakshi Temple in Madurai. This temple, which dates back 2,500 years, attracts thousands of pilgrims each day to its colorful towers. Pondicherry, a city noted for its French architecture and unique French-Indian cuisine, is another must-see in South India.
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Conclusion
Now, back to the major question: North India or South India for your India vacation? It all comes down to your particular preferences and the experiences that appeal to you.
If you enjoy studying history and ruins and want an active vacation, perhaps North India is better suited for a ten-day trip.
On the other hand, if you are certain that you want to rest during your vacation, explore nature, and engage in some mild trekking, Kerala is the place to go. Kerala is very stunning, with its backwaters, hills, and tea plantations, as well as a plethora of beautiful hotel alternatives.
