The number of things you can do and the experiences you can have in India are uncountable. There are thousands of things that can be done within a small state of India.

While listing all the things that can be done in India may be an impossible task, we have listed the top things to do in India which are a must for getting a feel of real India. Move away from the usual hill stations and wildlife sanctuaries. Though they are great to visit, there is so much more to be explored in this fascinating land. Read on to get some clues about the offbeat India experiences that we are referring to.

1. Visit the Taj Mahal

When listing the things one must do in India, you can’t leave Taj Mahal out. Built in the 17th century, this white marble monument attracts thousands of tourists from all over the world. It is the epitome of love as the world knows it. While a visit to Taj Mahal at any time of the day is exciting, consider visiting it during night, preferably on a full moon night. The charges are a little higher for night visits, but it is worth the experience.

2. Golden Temple Amritsar

Amritsar is a city in the Punjab, in northwest India. It is a holy place for members of the Sikh religion, and worth visiting for its famous Golden Temple. The architecture of this monument has influences of Hindu, Muslim and European cultures. A dip in the lake here is rejuvenating, while the langar served here is lip smacking.

3. Wagah Border

The Wagah border ceremony is much more interesting. As the sun goes down, the retreat ceremony at this India-Pakistan border begins. Bugles are sounded from both the sides, which could easily blow the air out of your lungs if you try it; guards from both the sides stomp their feet as hard as possible, trying to get one-up over each other. It is as exciting as watching the last ball of a India-Pakistan cricket match.

4. Valley of Flowers

Do you believe in fairies and Wonderland? If you don’t, the Valley of Flowers will make you believe in them. The National Park and a World Heritage Site is located in the state of Uttarakhand, nestled amidst the majestic treks in Himalayas. The myriad colored flowers are an ethereal experience, complemented by mist covered peaks. Nanda Devi National Park lies to the east of Valley of Flowers. The region is home to endangered species as well, such as snow leopard and Asiatic Black Bear.

5. Go on a Camel Safari

Experience India's sprawling deserts from the back of a camel. Make sure you camp overnight to experience the desert’s incredibly clear array of stars. Coincide your visit with one of the annual festivals such as Jaisalmer’s Desert Festival (January/February) and Pushkar’s fascinating Camel Fair (October).

6. Eat at the highway Punjabi Dhaba

There is nothing like have a gastronomical delight while on the road. While you are on the highway, especially the Delhi-Chandigarh one, don’t forget to have a meal in one of the many Punjabi dhabas, which usually operate 24/7. Murthal, near Sonepat, on NH1 is the hotspot for Punjabi dhabas, Gulshan Dhaba being the most famous of the lot. Just indulge in great lip-smacking food.

7. Spot Wildlife at a National Park

There are almost 100 national parks and 450 wildlife sanctuaries in India, which are huge attractions. Each national park is unique in regards to its wildlife and scenery. You can see everything from tigers to rhinoceros. It's possible to go on elephant safaris (tracking tigers) at some national parks as well.

8. Be Adventurous

Adventure travel is hugely popular in India, as there is such a wide range of things to do. The Himalaya region is the setting for many India adventure travel activities. However, there are plenty of options for adventure travel in India's south as well!

9.Take a walk from Dashashwamedh Ghat to Assi Ghat, Varanasi

Talking of spirituality, you just cannot leave the beautiful Varanasi out. While here, consider taking a walk from Dashashwamedh Ghat to Assi Ghat. The Dashashwamedh Ghat remains crowded most times of the day. But that shouldn’t deter your spirit. In fact, watching the religious ceremony which happens every evening at 7 is a must have experience. As you walk from Dashashwamedh to Assi, you come across several small ghats, where people are seen revering the Ganges, and some saying their final goodbyes to their departed loved ones.

10. Take a Houseboat Along the Kerala Backwaters

A trip on a houseboat is an unforgettably tranquil and relaxing thing to do in India. The lush green palm-fringed landscape, diverse wildlife, and houses and villages that line the backwaters make a journey along these waterways seem like a journey through another world. Don't miss it!

11. Get an Ayurvedic Treatment

Ayurveda is the medical side of yoga. It’s India’s traditional natural healing system, which has been practiced for over 5,000 years. Ayurvedic resorts have become popular destinations for relaxation and rejuvenation in India, while Ayurvedic hospitals cater for people seeking Ayurvedic treatment for more serious health problems. The best time to go? During the monsoon season.

12. Volunteer

There's no shortage of India volunteer opportunities, but many involve agencies that require volunteers to pay high fees (thousands of dollars) for the experience. The fees cover administration, accommodation, and food but it can work out a lot cheaper if you deal directly with the volunteer organizations themselves. Some organizations and hosts even provide board, so it works out very inexpensive indeed.

13. Relax at a Tea Garden

Indians love a good cup of tea (chai) and India is one of the largest tea growers in the world. However, over 70% of it is consumed by Indians themselves. The production of tea really took off during the days of British rule in India, when large tracts of land were converted for mass tea production. If you're a tea lover, don't miss visiting these places where you'll find the best India tea plantations and tea. You can even stay on a tea estate and tour the tea factories.

14. Visit India's Tribes

India, along with Africa, has the largest tribal population in the world. The lives of the tribes in India are closely tied to nature, and they inhabit some of the most pristine and picturesque environments in the country. Largely unaffected by the modern world, they're very simple and often curious people who have retained their rituals and customs. And many love receiving visitors!

15. Explore Spirituality

India has spiritual appeal for both Indians and foreigners alike. You can attend a Buddhist Vipassana meditation retreat, join an ashram, or learn yoga. Another moving experience is to take part in an evening aarti (fire worship) along the Ganges river at either Rishikesh, Haridwar, or Varanasi. Spiritual India, rich in holy places, traditions and rituals, offers much for those seeking knowledge and awareness. Visit these popular sacred destinations of various faiths to maximize your spiritual experience in India.

16. Beaches

If you like beach, Goa is a must. Stay at Bagha beach and drink, eat and enjoy your day!. Mumbai (Bombay) has Juhu and Chowpatty, while Goa offers some of the nation's most sublime beaches and resorts. Marina Beach in Chennai (Madras) is the second largest in the world. The lush state of Kerala includes the famous beach at Kovalam.

17. Bike trip to Ladakh

This one is for the adventure enthusiasts. If you love biking a bike trip to Ladakh is ultimate fun. You start from Manali and make your way through the stunning Rohtang Pass, beautiful Lahaul and Spiti Valley, and cross several high mountain passes before entering Ladakh. While in Ladakh, one should go on a bike trip to Khardung La Pass, the highest motorable pass in the world. You can take this biking trip to Ladakh only between June to December, as Rohtang Pass remains closed for six months, starting from December

18. Yoga at Parmath Niketan, Rishikesh

Located on the banks of River Ganges, nestled amidst the majestic Himalayas is Parmath Niketan in Rishikesh. There is something about this place which beckons you to contemplate nature and be at peace with yourself. Even if spirituality is the last thing on your mind, try an early morning yoga session here. You will love the experience.

19. Visit to Bodh Gaya

This is where Gautama Buddha is said to have attained enlightenment. Pay a visit to Mahabodhi Temple, which is regarded as one of the most important Buddhist temples. Revel at the spirituality of the place or just chat with the local Buddhist monks which reside at the place. Either way, it is a different kind of experience you get here.

20. Holi at Vrindavan

Holi is a festival which is a special experience in India. While most places in India celebrate the festival for only a day, if you love the color of festivals, Vrindavan is the place to be. Holi is celebrated for a week here, amidst crowds thronging the various temples dedicated to Lord Krishna here. While you can experience the usual Holi festival with colors here, consider playing the Lath Maar holi when in Vrindavan; or one with flowers.

21. Kumbh Mela

Millions of people throng to the Ganges and River Godavari to pay their homage during the Kumbh Mela. It happens every twelve years in four cities namely- Allahabad, Nashik, Ujjain and Haridwar. An Ardh Kumbh Mela happens every six years in Haridwar and Allahabad. While you visit this spiritual conglomeration of people, make sure you have your belongings and your family tightly wound to you.

22. Kedarnath Temple – An awesome trek and a spiritual experience

Call it a pilgrimage or an exciting trek in the Himalayan region, either way, it is an exciting experience. The Kedarnath Temple is located near the Mandakini River, and attracts thousands of pilgrims every year. You have take an arduous 14 km trek starting from Gaurikund to reach the temple. The Kedarnath temple is opened to the public in the month of April till the time around Dusshehra.

23. Get down and dirty at Satpal Singh Akhada Kushti

Indian wrestling is a rustic experience. Men wrestling in the mud, executing their signature moods and the crowds cheering them, with the sun beating down- that is the best definition of rustic. The Satpal Akhada Kushti in Rampur in Uttar Pradesh is one of the best places to be at for experiencing Indian wrestling. Satpal Singh has won many battles in his time, including a bronze at Asiad Games, and trains wrestlers at this Akhada. Don’t forget to take some tips for those rippling muscles when here.

24. Experience the colorful culture of Ladakh at Hemis festival

Hemis Monastery is one of the oldest and the most beautiful monasteries of Ladakh. In summers, it plays host to a 2 day festival, which sees traditional dances, and beautiful paintings being drawn by the villagers. The sound of drums, cymbals and trumpets which echo off the Himalayas is a treat for the ears.

25. Be a part of awesome celebrations at Krishna Janamashtmi in Mathura

Mathura is the hometown of Lord Krishna according to Hindu Mythology. And it is here you get to experience the festival of Krishna Janamashtmi in all its fervor and splendor. Scores of people throng the temple of Lord Krishna, which are decorated beautifully. People can be seen singing hymns and revelling in the festive atmosphere. Even if you are not the religious kind, you will love this experience.

26. Feel the Vibe at Durga Puja

Durga Puja is one of the most colorful festivals of India and is an experience one must have in Eastern India. Scores of people can be seen jiving to roaring drum beats, and reveling in the moment. Like every other festival of India, there are lip smacking delicacies to be had on Durga Puja too. Don’t miss out on traditional Bengali sweets.

27. Attend the Bihu Festival in Assam – Don’t forget to participate in the dances

While in Assam, don’t forget to attend the Bihu festivals, if you are there at the right time of the year. Bihu festival is the national festival of Assam, and takes place three times in an year, viz. in the months of January, April and October. The festival celebrates the cultural heritage of the land and also the farming seasons of the place. The one that happens in April is the most colorful of the lot as it signifies the onset of spring season.

28. Feel the Pulse of the Nation with a ride on the Mumbai Local Train

For a feel of the pulse of the nation, take a ride in the Mumbai local train. And if you are brave-hearted enough, consider taking a ride in the Mumbai local train during the peak rush hours. You get to hear all kinds of discussions while in the Mumbai locals- from politics to economy and sports- people share their opinion about everything. But the biggest wonder of the journey is how the people survive the journey, clinging on to the barest of metal pieces they can get their hands on. Don’t worry about getting in or getting out- the crowd will help you with that.

29. Royal Enfield Tour of Rann of Kutch

Rann of Kutch is a desolate land which holds several mysteries. It was home to the Harappan Civilization, one of the oldest civilizations known to man, and you can visit the ruins of the civilization at Dholavira. Royal Enfield conducts a tour of Rann of Kutch every year, where you get to experience mesmerizing sunsets and get to pay tribute to the martyrs who have gone down fighting for the country.

30. Feel the royalty – Attend a Royal Wedding in Rajasthan

If you get the chance, don’t miss an opportunity to be a part of a royal wedding on a Rajasthan Tour. From the decor to the food and the guests of the honor, and of course the palaces they are hosted in, everything is ornately royal about them.

31. Take a Romantic Drive with your Better Half on the Marine Drive

Few places in Mumbai are as romantic as marine drive. The 3 km long drive located in the southern part of Mumbai is actually land reclaimed from the sea. Consider taking a bike or car drive on this 3 km long stretch or just walk along the sea, with fresh breeze to rejuvenate and re-energize you. If you have a special someone in your life, it could be the perfect setting for a romantic date.

32. Karni Mata Temple

Located in Deshnoke, a little distance away from Bikaner, Rajasthan is the Karni Mata temple. The temple is dedicated to a incarnation of Goddess Durga and sees scores of pilgrims visiting it, especially during the time of Navaratris. Make sure you don’t kill any of the rats here though, because that would mean you need to donate a golden rat to the temple. And in case you spot a white rat among the scores of black ones, you should consider yourself lucky.

33. Visit Hampi- The land of a Celebrated Kingdom

Located in Karnataka is the historical Hampi village, home to the erstwhile Vijayanagar empire. You get to walk amidst the ruins of the empire in this village, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are fascinating temples, some waterfalls and enchanting history to be explored here. It is a haven for those interested in stories of kings and queens.

34. Visit the Sun Temple in Konark

Located in Konark, Orissa, is the Sun Temple, which dates back to the 13th century. The temple is dedicated to Lord Surya, or the Sun, and is an architectural marvel. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the many wonders of the world. Take a trip to this marvellous piece of architecture which will leave you awestruck.

35. Visit the Meenakshi Temple

One of the most important landmarks in Madurai, which is also known as the temple city, is the Meenakshi Temple. The temple is thronged by thousands of tourists everyday. The temple dates back to 1623 CE and is an architectural masterpiece, with an estimated number of 33,000 sculptures. If you can brave the crowds, consider visiting it during the months of April and May, at the time of the Tirukalyanam Festival.

36. Be a part of the Thaipusam festival - Don’t miss the Kavadi Attam Dance

The festival is celebrated among the Tamil Community during the months of January or February. You can feast your eyes on the Kavadi Attam dance, which is the highlight of this festival. Devouts bring themselves pain in this beautifully choreographed dance in order to seek the blessings of Lord Murugan.

37. Take a trip to Cellular Jail in Port Blair - Explore the Tales of Freedom Fighters

The Cellular Jail, colloquially known as the Kala Paani jail, is a national monument located in Port Blair in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It is a colonial jail which was used by the Britishers to send political prisoners of India into exile. Take a walk through the jail and get a closer look at India’s struggle for independence. When you get this close to history, you can feel what the people must have gone through during those times.

38. Play Kabaddi – Get Soiled, just like old times

Get down and dirty and play a match of Kabaddi. Punjab is the best place to indulge in this traditional Indian sport. Don’t forget to apply loads of oil on your body and practice saying “Kabaddi Kabaddi” without a pause in between. Even if you lose, you will love getting soiled and feeling the adrenaline pumping through your veins.

39. Play Cricket on the Street - You get to make your own rules

Cricket is to India like what football is to Brazil. People do not need parks or stadiums to play a game of cricket. All they need is an empty street corner and it is game on. Play a game of street cricket in India, with its peculiar rules and dollops of excitement. Watch out- one-tip(bounce)-one-hand is out!

40. Just be in any part of India on Diwali

Diwali is the Christmas of India. You could be in any part of India, but you cannot miss out on the celebratory vibe on this festival. If you haven’t experienced this festival ever, you must jot it down in your to-do list. You will love the loud decorations, the awesome food, and the sky lighting up with fire crackers, all of which is typical of this festival.

41. Old Delhi tour and Chandni Chowk

This is where you get to feel the pulse of Delhi. As you make your way through narrow streets filled with people, you start wonder how people can live in such a chaotic place. But soon enough, you fall in love with the chaos and the liveliness of the place.

While in Old Delhi and Chandni Chowk area, do not miss a visit to Paranthe Wali Gali, lip smacking Mutton Burra at Karim’s, traditional Indian sweets and a visit to Jama Masjid. A rickshaw ride completes the experience. You will be left thrilled by the way rickshaw puller makes his way through the crowd.

42. Rural Olympics Punjab – Old is Gold

Forget the Olympics. Punjab plays host to something much more exciting, and rustic, every year. Kila Raipur, a small village in Ludhiana, comes alive between February and March each year, as it plays host to a sports festival- Punjabi style. Hundreds of people throng to this fair, some to watch while others to participate.

It is pure fun to watch men fight it out in a game of mud wrestling; to watch a bullock cart race; tractor pulling and so much more. The festival sees as many as 40-50 events spread over 3 days. And it is not just the locals who participate in these games. You could even spot some Punjabi teams from Canada fighting it out.

43. Ramlila at Ramnagar

Watching traditional Ramlilas is always a great experience. Seeing hardly trained actors dorn the role of revered figures in Hindu Mythology for about 20 days is entertainment of the rustic kind. Taking this experience to a whole new level is the Ramlila at Ramnagar, Varanasi. The crowds here could be anywhere between 1,000 and 10,000, which include Sadhus too in their traditional attire. It is like watching a Broadway show live.

44. Stay in a Shikara in Dal Lake

You might have stayed in the best luxury hotels in the world, but nothing can beat the experience of staying in a Shikara in Dal Lake. There are houseboats in the Dal Lake which date back to the 18th century. They have intricate wood carvings and royal interiors, with all the services you can expect from the best hotels in the world. The beauty of the Dal Lake which surrounds you is a mesmerizing experience.

45. Gastronomical Tour of Lucknow - Sample the delicious royal cuisine

Delhi is not the only place in India famous for its gastronomical delights. For a tryst with the royal cuisine of India, head to Lucknow and savor the various delicacies of the region. Sample the biryani of the region and the various kebabs. Talking of the kebabs, don’t miss out on Tunde ke Kebab. A part of the Awadhi Cuisine, the kebabs are made of succulent minced meat, seasoned with over 160 spices. Tunde ke Kebab has a legacy of over a century.

46. Take a dip at Sangam – Cleanse your mind, body and soul

Sangam is a site of religious as well as national importance. This is the place where three important rivers of India meet viz. the Yamuna, the Ganges and the Saraswati. It is at Sangam that the Kumbh Mela is held every 12 years; and it is here that ashes of several important figures have been immersed, including that of Mahatma Gandhi. A dip in Sangam is said to wah away all your sins. But even if you don’t believe in all that spiritual talk, a dip in Sangam would definitely refresh your mind, body and soul.

47. Drive on Zuluk Loops - Feel the adrenaline rush

If you are looking for exciting road trips in India, don’t miss a drive on the Zuluk loops. Located in the Eastern Sikkim region, Zuluk Loops are exactly that- meandering roads amidst the winding hills. Take in the scenery which surrounds you and experience the wind in your face as you make your way through the hills.

48. Trip to Nalanda – Explore the enchanting ruins

India is often called a magical land, and snake charmers are not the reason for that. It is the places like Nalanda which give India that tag. The ruins of Nalanda date back to 5th century and housed one of the most important universities in ancient times. Located in Bihar, close to the capital state of Patna, a trip to the ruins of Nalanda lets you feel the magic of the land.

49. Attend the Hornbill Festival - Feel the Pulse of Nagaland

The north-eastern part of the India hasn’t been explored to its full potential. Every year, in the month of December, Nagaland plays host to the Hornbill festival. You come across colorful tribal dances of the region and the rich cultural heritage of the land of the Nagas.

50. Experience the greatness of nature with a walk across the Living Root Bridge

More than 90% of people in India do not know about this natural wonder that exists in the rainforests of Cherapunji. Cherapunji is one of the wettest places on earth and is ideal for the growth of rubber trees. The local tribes of the region grow rubber trees and use the roots of these trees as bridges to cross the many rivers that flow through the region. Walking on these bridges, which are a gift from nature, is an absolutely awesome experience. What’s even more awesome is the way the roots of these trees are manipulated to grow in the right direction.