India 🇮🇳 (Part 2)

📍 Mumbai India’s largest city, located on the western coast along the Arabian Sea, spans 603 sq km with a population of 17 million. As the country’s financial, commercial, and entertainment hub, Mumbai is home to Bollywood and serves as a major rail, air, and seaport gateway—often called India’s "Western Door." 📍 Rishikesh The "Yoga Capital of the World", nestled in the Himalayan foothills along the Ganges, ~200 km from Delhi. Steeped in Hindu mythology (Lord Vishnu is said to have defeated demon Madhu here), the town brims with ashrams, temples, and yoga schools, drawing spiritual seekers who believe meditation here brings divine salvation. 📍 Jaipur The "Pink City", founded by Rajputs, where pink symbolizes hospitality. In 1876, its buildings were painted pink to welcome Prince Albert, creating a surreal, rose-hued landscape. Must-sees: Hawa Mahal: A dreamlike honeycombed sandstone palace with panoramic views. Amber Fort: A fairytale hilltop fortress with watchtowers. Bazaars: Shop for Rajasthani jewelry, textiles, blue pottery, and puppets. 📍 Kolkata (Calcutta) West Bengal’s capital and India’s 3rd-largest city, hometown of poet Tagore. Once the British Raj’s capital, its Gothic, Baroque, and Islamic architecture earned it the nickname "City of Palaces". Contrasts abound: colonial Dalhousie Square, vibrant suburbs, and sprawling slums. 📍 Meghalaya "The Abode of Clouds", with 70% forest cover and Mawsynram—Earth’s wettest place. The Khasi tribe maintains a rare matrilineal society, where women inherit property and hold high social status. #India #TravelIndia #IncredibleIndia #Mumbai #Rishikesh #Jaipur #Kolkata #Meghalaya