Indian Places that Have European Vibes

India’s rich history dating back thousands of years, the influence of multiple countries and cultures on the soil, coupled with its vast, expansive geography means that we have a country that looks, feels, and talks in diverse ways. For those who love travelling the continents, India’s diversity offers a chance to experience Europe in India. Yes, we are referring to cities, mountains, valleys and so many amazing places in India that will make you feel like you’re in Europe.

Let’s take a look at the different Indian places that you can add to your travel list to experience the European vibe!

• Khajjiar, Himachal Pradesh; feels like Switzerland.

Ever since Yash Chopra introduced Switzerland to the masses of India, the stunning European country has seen millions of Indian tourists. However, for those who don’t wish to travel too far from home, Khajjiar is the place to go to. 

The spectacular ecosystem of the town encompasses a beautiful lake, stunning meadows, and a dense forest. Perhaps, it is this majestic combination that compelled Swiss Envoy Willy P. Blazer to call this Himachali town “Mini Switzerland”, thus putting it on the world tourism map! While you are at it, explore towns like Dalhousie and  Dharamshala which are at a few hours distance from Khajjiar. Explore the different Club Mahindra resort accommodations in Himachal Pradesh to make your holiday smooth and memorable.

Best time to visit: Summers are the best time to visit Khajjiar since the weather is cool. You can head to the town even in winters if you love watching the snow settle onto the tall pine and cedars!

• Alappuzha, Kerala; feels like Venice.

Right from the James Bond movies over the years to famous Instagram travel bloggers today, everyone seems to be enamoured by the unique beauty of the Italian city. Oh wait, did we say “unique”? Well, head to Alappuzha or Alleppey as it is fondly called, and you will realise that you can experience the amusement of travelling through the canals of Venice right here in India. Dubbed “Venice of the East”, Alappuzha has an extensive waterway with coconut trees and paddy fields lining up the shore. Although this verdant scene is not reminiscent of Venetian Gothic architecture, the calming waters are more than enough to make you feel like you are boating in Venice!

Best time to visit: Visiting these Kerala backwaters between October and February will ensure you have a comfortably cool weather.

• Puducherry; feels like France

As you make your way to White Town, you will come across signboards written in both, Tamil and French. If that’s not all, seeing French ex-pats walking around, feeling right at home will give you a sense of juts how French this seaside town is. Its history as a French colonial settlement is preserved, and even cherished, in the French Quarters, with its tree-lined streets, old-world French colonial architecture, and villas painted white, yellow, or peach. If France has been on your list of places to visit in Europe but you need a taste of the culture first, head to Puducherry for a quick trip before you plan your trip to France!

Best time to visit: The weather is pleasant from October-March, so maybe plan a trip during that period?

• South Mumbai, feels like England.

If you are visiting Mumbai, make sure you have your camera and tripod because trust us, you will want to take some good pictures of what is some of the most iconic European architecture in India. Right from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus stylised in Gothic Revival to Crawford Market which is a stunning blend of Gothic, Flemish and Norman styles of architecture, the structures of South Mumbai have unquestionable European influences. You will find art-deco buildings all across Marine Drive. Even the Town Hall, now called Asiatic Library, will make you instantly think of Greek and Roman architectural styles.

Best time to visit: All through the year.

Don’t wait to save up to just make that one trip to Europe. Instead, take trips to these amazing, wholesome places in India that will give you all the European vibes you are looking for?