India is a diverse country with amazing scenery, architecture and people. We had a difficult time choosing, but here are our top 20 pictures from India.
1. Rock-Cut Temple Caves in Ajanta, Maharashtra
These hand chiseled pre-historic caves are incredible, filled with stunning carvings. The interesting lighting adds even more character.
2. Taj Mahal
The majestic Taj Mahal is a picture taken by every visitor to India, but this photo captures all of its beauty so well, that it ranks high on our list.
3. Cremation Ghats, Varanasi
We call this one ‘Dante’s Inferno’ because of the dark, dramatic feel to this shot of the cremation ghats at night.
4. Temple ruins, Hampi
The simplicity of these shrine ruins on a granite slab makes a stunning picture.
5. Sunrays on Sachen campground, Sikkim
The sun’s morning rays shine over the mountain ridge illuminating the bright yellow tents for a spectacular view.
6. Hawa Mahal, Jaipur
The facade of Hawa Mahal is filled with bay windows and carved lattice designs. The interesting pink sandstone building is an eye-catcher.
7. Mysore Palace, Mysore
This picture of Public Durbar Hall in Mysore Palace is mesmerizing with its brightly coloured ceiling between endless rows of elaborate columns.
8. Jaswant Theda and Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur
We had to hike over rough terrain to get this incredible shot of Jaswant Thada in front of the impenetrable Mehrangarh Fort, but we think it was worth it.
9. A camel herder in the Thar desert, Rajasthan
An everyday scene in the desert is a camel herder leading his camel, but we love the serenity captured in this shot.
10. Meditating monks, Bodhgaya
It was overwhelming to see such a large congregation of Buddhist monks meditating in front of Mahabodhi Temple in Bodhgaya. Their orange robes cover the green grass for a lovely contrast.
11. Chinese Fishing Nets, Kochi
Chinese traders left their mark on the Indian coast with these fascinating fishing nets. The sun setting behind them takes it from an interesting shot to a beautiful one.
12. Net fishing in paradise, Havelock Island
Turquoise waters, a white-sand beach and a local fisherman casting a net. What else can you ask for?
13. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, Mumbai
This indo-saracenic building in Mumbai is beautiful, but what makes this picture great is the bright green lawn and interesting Buddha head in front.
14. Golkonda Fort, Hyderabad
We love the contrast of the monochromatic arched doorways of the fort to the bright saris of these Indian women.
15. Sun Temple, Konark
There are so many interesting details to look at in this picture; the finely detailed carvings on the Sun Temple, the large centre wheel and the different angles on the wall.
16. Ganga Aarti, Varanasi
Ganga Aarti is a beautiful display of devotion. Pundits (Hindu priests) perform ritualistic movements with bells, incense and candelabras every evening along the side of the Ganges River.
17. Backwaters, Kerala
This picture of bamboo houseboats traveling along the narrow, palm fringed canals in Kerala’s backwaters is so calm yet full of life.
18. Jain Temple, Jaisalmer
These elaborately carved Torans are breathtaking with their fine details and interesting design.
19. The Golden Temple, Amritsar
The Golden Temple is a glittering marvel. This picture beautifully captures its reflection on the surface of the water.
20. Paddleboarder at sunset, Palolem
We love the colours in this picture as the sun sets over the Arabian Sea with a paddler coming in to shore.
Coming up next: Impressions of India – Our 8 month Adventure
For extra pictures from our blogs go to Gallery at monkeystale.ca
To read about more of our adventures go to Destinations.
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