Gujarat: A Mosaic of Landscapes
First on the list is the state of Gujarat, recognised as one of the top 25 global destinations to explore. This pick champions diversity over a single urban experience. Instead of a quick weekend trip, Lonely Planet points towards a region that offers
a compelling mix of culture, wildlife, and history. Imagine the vast, ethereal expanse of the Rann of Kutch, a white salt desert that comes alive during the Rann Utsav festival with vibrant music and crafts. This is a landscape that demands to be absorbed slowly, not just seen. Beyond the desert, Gujarat is home to Gir National Park, the last remaining sanctuary for the majestic Asiatic lion. A safari here is a lesson in patience and conservation. The state also invites history buffs to wander through the ancient Harappan archaeological site of Dholavira or explore the architectural richness of Ahmedabad's old city. By highlighting Gujarat, the guide encourages travellers to build an itinerary that is rich, varied, and deeply connected to the land and its heritage.
Darjeeling Himalayan Railway: The Journey is the Destination
The second Indian entry is not a place, but an experience: a ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. Selected as one of the world's top 25 travel experiences, the iconic 'Toy Train' embodies the 2027 list's theme of slowing down. This is the antithesis of a rushed holiday. The historic, UNESCO-listed narrow-gauge train winds its way through the breathtaking hills of West Bengal, offering stunning views of mountain landscapes and verdant tea gardens. The journey from New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling is a trip back in time, chugging through charming hill settlements and stopping at Ghum, one of India's highest railway stations. A key moment is the Batasia Loop, where the train completes a full spiral to navigate a steep descent, providing panoramic views of the mighty Kanchenjunga on clear days. Choosing this railway journey celebrates the simple joy of travel itself, reminding us that the moments in between destinations are often the most memorable.
A Shift Towards Mindful Travel
Together, these two recommendations paint a clear picture of the future of travel. The inclusion of an entire state like Gujarat and a specific, slow-paced journey like the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway suggests a move away from the 'checklist' approach to tourism. It is a call to engage more deeply with our surroundings. This trend is about seeking out less crowded places and having more authentic interactions. It’s about choosing experiences that support local communities and preserve cultural heritage. Rather than hopping between major airports and five-star hotels, the modern traveller is being encouraged to explore the dirt tracks of a national park, appreciate the intricate weave of a local textile, or simply sit back and watch the mountains roll by from a train window. These picks are not about escaping India's cities, but about complementing them with experiences that offer a different kind of richness.
