India’s Wonderful Contrast Between the traditional and the Modern Worlds



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India is a vibrant realm that best captures the contrast between the traditional world and the modern world. As India’s seventh largest country in terms of geographic reach, India boasts a rich heritage – the result of the different cultures and religions that have left their mark here over the centuries.

India is full of sacred sites of a rich spiritual history, while nature lovers can enjoy the unique beaches, lush gardens and abundant wildlife reserves. From the wonderful Taj Mahal in Agra to the holy places in Haramandir to the Amritsar Mosque, most travelers who visit this country are always looking for a journey full of spiritual, cultural and also historical treasures.

  1. Taj Mahal – Agra

Being the most famous building in India, the Taj Mahal is also the most famous love testimony. Named after Mumtaz Mahal, Emperor Shah Jahan’s favorite wife, the construction of this mausoleum began after her death in 1631 as a sign of respect and love. Incorporating many elements of Islamic architecture, the Taj Mahal is built of white marble and is decorated with delicate floral patterns adorned with precious stones.

The Taj Mahal is proof there are indeed magical places on Earth, being the best-known architectural work in India’s entire history. By borrowing elements from Hindu, Indian and Persian architecture, the mausoleum was built with the help of elephants carrying the materials and the exhausting work of about 20,000 people.

We recommend visiting this wonderful place either at dawn or in the evening, when the wonderful landscape is highlighted by the sunlight that transforms the whole atmosphere into a fairytale. For example, in the morning the walls of the mausoleum have a pale pink color, but with the sunset and the setting of the night, they appear white. If possible, try to photograph the reflection of the Taj Mahal in the Yamuna River, as it will make for an amazing photograph to return home with!

  1. Holy City – Varanasi

Varanasi is one of the most interesting places throughout India. For centuries, education, culture, philosophy and religion have flourished in this place, and if you visit the religious center of the city you will realize that this is what keeps the spirit of the city alive!

The holy city of Varanasi, near the Gange River, an important religious symbol, was an important center for Hindu pilgrims. Dating back to the 8th century and being one of the oldest inhabited cities. Travelers here have the opportunity to explore the ancient neighborhood near the Gange River, where the Kashi Vishwanath Temple was built in 1780.

Every evening the priests gather for the evening ceremony, which takes about 20-30 minutes. During the ceremony, the priests perform various traditional rituals which include rose petals, incense and bells, all in the light of some huge lamps.

3.Harmandir Sahib: The Golden Amritsar Temple

Amritsar was founded in 1577 by Ram Das, and it is an important center for the Sikh history and culture. The main attraction in the city is the so-called golden temple, which is named after its rich decoration in pure gold.

The temple was built in a Hindu and Islamic manner and the lower section was surrounded by floral motifs, while the large golden dome was built in the form of a lotus flower. Along with its exquisite design, tourists are always impressed by the spiritual atmosphere of the temple, which is frequently reinforced by prayers that are constantly broadcast throughout the temple.

  1. The Golden City of Jaisalmer

The name of the city dates back to the yellow tiles used in the construction of most buildings. The Golden City of Jaisalmer is an oasis of ancient architecture. Although it was once a strategic location, the city today is full of luxury villas and picturesque portals, as well as the massive Jaisalmer fortress, also known as the Golden Fort.

In addition to palaces, temples and old houses, the city has 99 fortifications leading to the main courtyard of the Maharaja Palace. The palace has beautifully decorated areas with imported tiles from Italy and China, carved stone doors, each decorated with beautiful paintings, marble, manuscripts and ceilings.

  1. Red Fort – New Delhi

Built in 1648 by Shah Jahan as the headquarters of the Mughal Authority in New Delhi, it covers a vast area stretching over 2 square kilometers. The main attractions of the castle include two large gates: the Lahore gate which represents the main entrance of the fort and Delhi gate, once used by the emperor for ceremonies.

  1. Gate of India – Mumbai

With an impressive height of 26 meters, overlooking the Arabian Sea, the Gate of India is the starting point in Mumbai. Built to commemorate the arrival of King George and Queen Mary in 1911, this architectural piece is known for its Hindu design, being entirely made of yellow basalt.

History has left its mark on this landmark, as the Gate of India was the scene of a procession of the British soldiers in 1948, when India gained independence.

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