India is many countries in one. It is as diverse as any nation can get with it varied topography, (one of the few places where you can experience arid deserts and snow capped peaks during the same period) climate, activities and attractions. The land of culture, spiritualism, ayurveda and yoga also has some stunning monuments, temples, palaces, national parks, diving islands, beach resorts and hill stations. Here is a guide to the sights of this thoroughly bewitching nation.

Taj Mahal (Agra, Uttar Pradesh)

This is the most iconic and emblematic monument of the nation, which is in fact a manifestation of a monarch’s love and obsession for his beautiful wife. The construction of the grand marble wonder with exquisite domes and pillars started in 1632 and culminated around 1653. The Taj Mahal was built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal, who died at a young age. The emperor is said to have chopped off the hands of the craftsmen who worked on building the monument, so that there could never be another monument of its caliber anywhere on earth.

Bandhavgarh National Park

A vast natural reserve located 200 kilometers from Jabalpur Madhya Pradesh, Bandhavgarh is famous for its spectacular setting amidst green valleys, rocky terrains and high cliffs. The park has one of the highest numbers of tigers along with deer, leopards, bears, elephants, gibbons and a host of indigenous birds. The entrance to the park is from Tala village and the best time to spot the animals is at the break of dawn or in the late afternoon. The park is closed from July to September during monsoon season.

Andaman and Nicobar Islands

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands boasts of some of the richest coral reef ecology in the world and is great for diving and snorkeling. Even for visitors who aren’t particularly charged about water sports, the pristine clear blue water islands, lagoons and reef formations on the shore are worth seeing.

Khajuraho Temples

Khajuraho temples, located in Madhya Pradesh, are an outstanding collection of temples and shrines depicting medieval Hindu architecture and erotic sculpture. The exquisite statues and stone carvings are skillfully worked on wall panels and sketch the ancient sexual legacy and mythology of the land of Kamasutra.

Kerala Backwaters

One of the most breathtaking natural sights in India, the Kerala Backwaters is a gorgeous landscape of tranquil waterways, swaying palm trees, lush rice fields and old-fashioned inlets. Take a ride on the backwaters on a houseboat and enjoy a traditional, world-famous Kerala ayurvedic massage.

A land of many wonders, India has several diverse and fascinating sights that are replete with history, mythology and a deep-rooted culture along with some superb natural attractions.