Our first time in India was one of the most hectic, wonderful, and awe-inspiring experiences. We caught the sunrise from the top of Delhi’s old spice market; experienced Holi festival in the birthplace of Hindu god Lord Krishna; managed to be the first ones to enter the gates of the Taj Mahal at 5am; narrowly missed cows, monkeys and camels from the back of tuk-tuks; saw our first ever tiger on an Indian safari; laughed, cried, and ate our way through one of the most crazy countries we’ve ever experienced together.

They say India is a ‘country of opposites’, and now I understand that sentiment. It’s what we tried to capture in this video — some of the most peaceful, breathtaking views and places imaginable, coupled with the utter chaos. It’s been a fun one to edit. We hope you enjoy it!

Here’s every spot featured in our India video, in order and with time codes:

Delhi spice market rooftop (0:00 to 0:11 and 1:29); Panna Meena Ka Kund step well in Jaipur (0:12 and 1:30); Amber Fort in Jaipur (0:19); safari in Bandhavgarh (0:23 to 0:28 and 1:29); Taj Mahal in Agra (0:28, 1:14 to 1:20); Holi festival celebrations in Vrindavan and Mathura (0:32 to 0:46 and 0:49 to 1:09);  Phoolon Wali Holi, otherwise known as Flower Holi in Vrindavan (0:46 to 0:49); the lookout over the Amber Fort (1:09 to 1:10); the river in Mathura (1:10 to 1:14); monkeys at Galta Ji in Jaipur (1:21); Taj Lake Palace hotel in Udaipur (1:22 and 1:24 to 1:28); Albert Hall Museum in Jaipur (1:23); Patrika Gate in Jaipur (1:28); Nahargarh Fort at sunset in Jaipur (1:21); and finally, views of the Taj Mahal from the Yamuna River. We asked to enter, tipped the locals, and took video from this spot (1:32).

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If you’re planning a trip to India, check out our full India itinerary for inspiration and FAQ’s on a first time visit. You can also catch more of our favorite destinations and travel highlights around the world in our 2.5 years of travel video.