INDIA’S BEST PHOTO OPPORTUNITIES (you can safari there, too!)

Dazzling colors, intricate architecture, exotic landscapes, and ancient culture – all can be found in India; you’ll want to capture it with your camera, too!

You could spend a lifetime learning about this remarkable country and traveling through the vibrant cities and rural countryside, capturing stunning images. However, most of us only have a few weeks to travel there.

I’ve got you! Here are some top spots where you can get gorgeous images and have unforgettable cultural experiences.

AGRA 

Taj Mahal

A visit to the Taj Mahal is the highlight of every trip to India. Its iconic architecture, glowing in the early morning light and reflected in the mirror-like pond, is a must for amateur and experienced photographers alike. If that’s your goal, arrive early to avoid the crowds of like-minded people vying for the same shot.

Once you’ve gotten the “money shot,” explore and get creative with your other images. The Taj Mahal may be one of the most photographed places on Earth, but the world has yet to see it from your perspective. If you need inspiration, try searching #tajmahal on Pinterest and Instagram.

Agra Fort / Jahangiri Palace

Don’t leave the area without a visit to Agra Fort. This UNESCO World Heritage Site’s impressive red sandstone architecture offers plenty of photo ops, especially during golden hour. Check out #agrafort on Instagram to see what the fuss is about.

JAIPUR

Give yourself a few days to explore this beautiful city, and add these unique locations to your shotlist:

●         Patrika Gate – Stand in awe of the impressive artwork on the gate’s walls before snapping your Insta-worthy pics.

●         City Palace – Although the royal complex contains beautiful gardens, courtyards, and buildings, the oppulent gates might be the most photogenic.

●         Amber Palace/Amer Fort – You’ll need plenty of time to wander around and capture this perfect example of Rajasthani architecture, built with pale yellow and pink sandstone, and with white marble.Hike up to the watchtowers to get an awe-inspiring photo.

●         Nahargarh (Abode of Tigers) Fort – Situated above Jaipur in the Aravali mountains. his fort offers stunning views of the Amber Palace, Jaigarh Fort, the Pink city of Jaipur, and Jaipur’s Jal Mahal (Water Palace). Come here for sunset – you’re welcome!

●         Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Winds) – This beautiful palace was built for female royal family members to be able to view the city without being seen.

●         Galta Ji Temple (a.k.a. Monkey Temple) – You might see a monkey or two riding on the back of a local pig.

VARANASI

There is a plethora of alluring photo ops: Brightly colored boats, bustling ghats, Crowded markets, Swamis, Street cows, Aarti fire ceremonies on the banks of the Ganges, and the sacred Ganges River itself.  Golden hour at sunrise and sunset is the best time to capture these sites in the beautiful natural light.

KOLKATA

Kolkata, often considered India’s cultural capital, contains two things you must photograph:

1.         The vintage yellow cabs

2.         The daily flower market at Mallick Ghat

KERALA

Experience the lush countryside of Kerala as a change of pace from busy cities.

●         Periyar National Park – Go on a safari to spot elephants and tigers in this reserve. 

●         Munnar Tea Plantations – View gorgeous rolling hills filled with lucious tea gardens.

●         Alleppey (Alappuzha) – For the complete experience and the best photographs, sail on a houseboat through the “Venice of the East.”

GOA

Goa is located on India’s west coast, and is a popular locaion for beach vacations. Here are a few of the most picturesque beaches to experience and capture with your camera:

●         Agonda Beach – Calm, clear waters and striking golden sand

●         Palolem Beach – Brightly colored coco huts that are built and re-built each year

●         Butterfly Beach – Hop on a boat from Agonda Beach or Palolem Beach to experience this secluded spot.

●         Benaulim Beach – One of the best beaches in Goa for families

●         Cavelossim Beach – White sand, black lava rocks, and fewer crowds make this a perfect photo spot.

●         Beyond the Beach – If you’re interested in nature and wildlife photography, add Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary to your list.

Be a Responsible Photographer

Please be respectful, and refrain from photographing sacred sites. Signs are usually posted, letting you know when photographing a place is not ok. When photographing people, especially children, always get permission first.

There’s So Much More!

This article only scratches the surface of India’s gorgeous spots to explore. Whether or not you’re focused on photography, I can create a special itinerary catered to you and your travel style. Just reach out to us HERE to get the ball rolling!