Once you start planning an India trip, you will realise there are countless free things to do in such a vibrant land. It is no secret that India has an ever-changing landscape, and activities change along with it.
While you can enjoy many activities like Camel rides and historical icons with money, there are also many things to do for free.
Let’s explore 20 of these free things to do, whether you plan a solo India trip or an India group tour:
1. Enjoy The Colourful Splashes of Holi
If you plan a Vrindavan or Mathura tour during the festive season of Holi, you will witness such a colourful mix of celebrations. These two cities unite to celebrate a festival that lasts for days that even a 7-day tour might fall short. And it is completely free for everyone!
2. Free Food For All WIth Langars And Bhandaras
The Langar as the Golden Temple of India is a popular event, but local Gurudwaras in the cities also hold similar langars. You can also enjoy free distribution of food (or prasad) at the local temples, especially on Tuesdays and Saturdays.
3. Explore The Union of All Religions In India
Apart from the free food, you can also take a India group tour, or a solo India trip to explore different local churches, temples, mosques, gurudwaras and other religious buildings.
You will discover that almost every city has a mix of these religious buildings and everyone will welcome you warmly. Keep note of local rituals and clothing before entering religious places in India.
4. Admire The Illumination of Diwali
Just like Holi, Diwali is a grand festival of light in India that spans country-wide. You can be in any city, and if you decide to visit local gathering areas, you will discover people warmly hosting each other, bustling crackers, and enjoying sweets.
You can do this for free or space to buy some delicacies and offer them to others.
5. Rejuvenate With Yoga In Natural Embrace
As Yoga originated in India, you can find many parks and gardens where people practice Yoga every morning and evening. You could bring your yoga mat and join them. In Agra, you can perform Yoga in the Taj Nature Walk overlooking the magnificent Taj Mahal.
6. Cook Indian Cuisines Like A Local
India has a delectable collection of cuisines that vary with the locality. But you can participate in the local cooking workshops during your honeymoon tour, solo India trip, or a India group tour. It is perfect to learn authentic dishes and satiate your hunger at the same time.
7. Visit The Monumental Gates In India
You’ll notice that Indian cities have age-old gates. These are admirable and give an insight into a place’s history. For instance, In Delhi you’ll find India Gate which is a War Memorial. In Mumbai, you’ll see Gateway of India.
The royal city of Jaipur has 9 magnificent doors that once guarded the city from invaders. These historical gates are free for you to explore. You will come across many areas to capture pictures.
8. Feel The Patriotism With the National Guard Ceremony
The Change of Guard Ceremony at Wagah Border in Amritsar is something almost everyone should witness at least once in their life. This unique combination of discipline and dance-like moves will give you a glimpse at the shared unity and border of the two nations.
9. Stroll Down The Bustling Streets of Cities
The streets of Indian cities are generally crowded, noisy and thousands of things happening at the same time. The vibe of an Indian street or a flea market may seem chaotic, but its vibrant in many senses. There is a sense of respect and appreciation by everyone for everyone.
10. Admire The Street Performances At CP
Connaught Place in New Delhi is the hub for all the grand things from clubs and shops to food places and more. It is one location in Delhi where you can stroll like a free spirit and witness many artistic expressions.
From contemporary dances to musical masters, everyone takes it to the streets of Connaught Place for you to immerse. If you’re on an India Trip, this is one of the free things to do.
11. Ganga Aarti in Varanasi
Varanasi is an ancient Indian city where the world famous Ganga Aarti is conducted every day. Witnessing the power and act of the Aarthi can be transforming in many ways. Hundreds of devotees from the city and visitors from other cities gather to experience this magical act.
12. Mumbai Marine Drive
The Mumbai Marine Drive is an amazing place to be strolling by the Arabian Sea and enjoying the mesmerising view of Mumbai skyline on one side and the Arabian Sea on the other.
The Queen’s Necklace view of the Marine Drive gives you the best view of the Marine Drive. Walk by, sit and capture the beauty of Mumbai.
13. Explore Public Libraries And Cultural Centres
India has many hidden gems in the form of Public Libraries and Cultural Centres. These locations offer you a glimpse of the culture of the area. You can read to your heart’s content, meet like-minded individuals, and even learn about the local cultures. All for free.
14. Witness The Local Sceneries
Wherever you go, whether it be mountains, beaches, or deserts, you will have many scenic locations. Sunrise, sunsets, and night sky are three things you will love across various locations in India.
All for free. Moreover, you can explore hidden gems like Mehtab Bagh in Agra, for a beautiful retreat.
15. Explore Open-air Markets
Flea markets in Old Indian cities like Delhi, Agra and Varanasi can date back to hundreds of years. These haven’t lost their charm yet and you can explore these open-air markets and soak in their vibrancy and beauty.
16. Immerse In The Mystic
Apart from various enthralling hotspots, India also hosts supernatural thrills. If you love that touch of horror or scary stories, you will admire many local folklore and legends.
17. Explore The Local Parks & Gardens
There are many public parks and gardens across India that are well-maintained and offer a refreshing walking, or jogging experience. You can witness the activities of a local Indian and see what their days are like. You can talk with them as well and know more about them.
18. Experience The Brilliance of Architecture
India offers a tapestry of its architectural finesse. The diversity of architectural style you see here in India is incomparable to any other part of the world. For instance, the Taj Mahal is built in the Mughal Architecture, the City Palace of Jaipur and Udaipur are built in the Rajputana Style while the Rashtrapati Bhawan of Delhi is built in the Neoclassical style.
In the Goa region, you will see more of Portuguese architecture. The more you explore India, you’ll come across beautiful monuments in different architectural styles.
19. Track The Wildlife & Birds
With the changing landscapes, the wildlife and birdlife in India also change. You can witness many unique flora & fauna for free.
However, if you want an authentic experience, booking Ranthambore Safari can be a better choice. You can even greet Dolphins in Unchagaon India.
20. Volunteer To Your Heart’s Content
India has many social and global causes with activists in various fields. If you want, you can participate in good deeds and volunteer to teach kids in Rural Areas.
You can also serve in the very langars of Gurudwara if you wish to contribute to the wholesome experience that you’ve received in India.
