Before my first journey to India in 2016, I imagined a country of vibrant colours, majestic temples, sacred rivers, yoga, and spirituality. Like many people, my perception has been shaped by history books, documentaries and films like Jodhaa Akbar (2008). Yet nothing could have prepared me for what I was about to experience.

Ten years later, and with several official visits for international cultural and wellness programmes, I have come to realise that India is far more than a travel destination. It is a country that challenges assumptions, broadens perspectives, and transforms those who approach it with curiosity and an open mind.

As a Tunisian yoga practitioner, wellness advocate, and traveller, I have been fortunate to discover India from many different perspectives: as a student, a delegate, a cultural ambassador, and above all, as someone eager to learn. Every visit has revealed a different face of the country, deepening my appreciation for its extraordinary diversity and timeless wisdom.

For Tunisians seeking more than a conventional holiday, India offers something truly exceptional—the opportunity to travel not only across remarkable landscapes but also through history, culture, philosophy, and self-discovery.

India and Tunisia: a growing connection

When Tunisians think about international travel, destinations such as France, Italy, Turkey, or Southeast Asia often come to mind. India, despite being one of the world's oldest civilisations and most diverse countries, remains relatively unexplored.

Yet this is gradually changing. Growing cultural exchanges, educational opportunities, wellness tourism, business relations, and increasing international connectivity have encouraged more Tunisians to discover India beyond the stereotypes.

According to recent figures from India's Ministry of Tourism, approximately 5,586 Tunisian travellers visited India in 2024, reflecting a strong recovery after the global disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Although Tunisia still represents only a small fraction of India's international visitors, the numbers demonstrate a growing curiosity about a country that offers experiences unlike anywhere else in the world.

The relationship between Tunisia and India extends well beyond tourism. Both nations share deep historical roots, strong family values, renowned hospitality, and a profound respect for cultural heritage. Over the years, exchanges in education, yoga, Ayurveda, healthcare, business, and diplomacy have strengthened these ties, bringing people from both countries closer together.

Planning the journey

Travelling from Tunisia to India requires a little more preparation than visiting many traditional holiday destinations, but it is far more accessible than many people imagine.

Although there are currently no direct flights, convenient one-stop connections are available through international hubs such as Istanbul, Doha, Dubai, Paris, and Frankfurt, with total travel times generally ranging between ten and fifteen hours.

Tunisians currently require a tourist visa issued by the Embassy of India in Tunis, as the electronic visa system is not yet available for Tunisian passport holders. While this additional administrative step may seem discouraging at first, it quickly becomes insignificant once the journey begins.

Because of the distance, many visitors choose to stay several weeks, allowing themselves enough time to experience India's remarkable diversity. Unlike many destinations that can be explored in a few days, India invites slow travel. Every region tells a different story, encouraging visitors to discover multiple cultures within a single country.

A land of extraordinary diversity

Few countries on Earth offer diversity on the scale of India. Stretching from the snow-covered Himalayas in the north to the tropical shores of the Indian Ocean in the south, India encompasses deserts, rainforests, beaches, mountains, wildlife sanctuaries, fertile plains, bustling megacities, peaceful villages, and ancient pilgrimage sites.

Each of India's states possesses its own unique identity. Languages change, cuisines evolve, architecture differs, festivals vary, and local traditions create the impression of travelling through several countries rather than one.

For Tunisian travellers accustomed to Mediterranean landscapes and North African culture, this diversity is nothing short of fascinating. Beyond its spectacular natural scenery, India is home to some of the world's most celebrated cultural treasures. From the timeless beauty of the Taj Mahal to the colourful palaces of Rajasthan, the sacred ghats of Varanasi, the ancient temples of Tamil Nadu, the Golden Temple of Amritsar, and the peaceful monasteries of Ladakh, every destination reveals another chapter of India's extraordinary story.

My first encounter with India

My own journey with India began in March 2016 when I travelled to New Delhi to participate in the World Culture Festival. The event brought together participants from across the globe in an inspiring celebration of peace, unity, cultural diversity, and human values.

Representing Tunisia among thousands of participants from more than 150 countries was an unforgettable experience. Witnessing artists, musicians, spiritual leaders, and cultural representatives sharing one stage demonstrated the extraordinary ability of culture to unite people beyond language, nationality, or religion.

That first visit completely changed my perception of India. Rather than confirming my expectations, it expanded them. Every street, every conversation, every temple, and every encounter invited me to see the world differently.

During that same period, I pursued yoga studies at SVYASA University in Bengaluru, one of India's leading institutions dedicated to scientific yoga research and education.

For someone passionate about yoga, studying in its country of origin was far more than an academic experience. It provided a deeper understanding of yoga's philosophical, therapeutic, and scientific foundations while reinforcing my conviction that yoga is not simply physical exercise but a complete system for physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being.

Later that year, I also visited the Art of Living International Center in Bengaluru. Surrounded by rolling hills and peaceful natural landscapes, the ashram welcomed people from every corner of the world seeking personal growth, inner peace, and meaningful human connection.

The atmosphere demonstrated something I would continue to observe throughout all my journeys in India: despite its immense diversity, there exists a remarkable sense of community and generosity.

A decade of learning

My relationship with India did not end after that first visit. In 2017, I returned to participate in the International Conference on Yoga, organised by the Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga under the Ministry of AYUSH. Researchers, physicians, scientists, yoga teachers, and health professionals exchanged ideas on the growing role of yoga within modern healthcare.

The conference highlighted India's leadership in integrating ancient wisdom with contemporary scientific research. In 2018, I joined the Yoga Ambassadors Tour, an initiative bringing together yoga practitioners from around the world. Beyond the official programme, it became a remarkable cultural exchange where friendships formed across continents and yoga proved once again to be a universal language capable of connecting people from every culture.

One year later, I returned as part of the Ayurveda Ambassadors Tour. This journey introduced me to another pillar of India's wellness heritage. Often described as one of the world's oldest systems of medicine, Ayurveda focuses on prevention, balance, and harmony between body, mind, and nature. Meeting experienced practitioners and visiting Ayurvedic centres offered valuable insights into an approach to health that continues to inspire modern wellness practices worldwide. Looking back over ten years, I realise that each visit revealed a different dimension of India. Together, these experiences shaped both my personal life and my professional journey.

India: the world's wellness capital

Few countries are as closely associated with wellness as India. As the birthplace of yoga, meditation traditions, and Ayurveda, India has become one of the world's leading destinations for travellers seeking health, balance, and personal transformation.

Unlike many modern wellness destinations, India's practices are not commercial trends created for tourism. They are living traditions that have been preserved and transmitted for thousands of years. Visitors can participate in yoga teacher training programmes, meditation retreats, Ayurvedic therapies, detox programmes, mindfulness workshops, and holistic healing experiences guided by experienced practitioners.

For many travellers, the journey becomes more than a holiday. It becomes the beginning of a healthier lifestyle.

Kerala: where wellness meets nature

Among India's countless destinations, Kerala occupies a special place in my heart. Known as "God's Own Country," Kerala offers an exceptional combination of natural beauty, biodiversity, cultural richness, and holistic wellness.

Its tranquil backwaters, lush forests, spice plantations, tea gardens, tropical coastline, and renowned Ayurvedic centres create one of the world's most relaxing travel experiences.

Houseboats glide peacefully through palm-lined canals while local communities continue traditions passed down through generations. Visitors can enjoy authentic cuisine, discover centuries-old spice routes, observe wildlife, experience Kathakali performances, or simply embrace a slower rhythm of life. For anyone interested in balancing exploration with renewal, Kerala represents one of India's most rewarding destinations.

As I stood on the shores of Kerala during my most recent journey, I realised how far that first trip to India in 2016 had taken me—not only across the country, but also in my own personal and professional life.

More than famous monuments

Although iconic landmarks such as the Taj Mahal attract millions of visitors each year, India's true richness lies in everyday life. Some of my most cherished memories are not associated with famous monuments but with conversations shared over cups of chai, colourful local markets, spontaneous acts of kindness, yoga practice at sunrise, and meals enjoyed with families whose generosity made me feel at home despite being thousands of kilometres away. These moments revealed the true spirit of India far beyond what any travel guide could describe.

What India taught me

Perhaps the greatest gift India has given me is perspective. India taught me that not everything in life can—or should—be controlled. Some of the most meaningful opportunities appeared when I simply trusted the journey. It reminded me to embrace abundance, remain open to unexpected possibilities, and cultivate both humility and compassion toward myself and others.

Travelling through India encouraged me to embrace uncertainty rather than fear it. It reminded me that meaningful travel is measured not by the number of monuments visited or photographs taken but by the conversations we have, the people we meet, and the lessons we carry home.

Every journey left me with new questions, new friendships, and a deeper appreciation for cultural diversity. India showed me that the greatest discoveries often happen within ourselves.

Travelling as a Tunisian woman

As a Tunisian woman travelling in India, my experiences have been overwhelmingly positive. Like any destination, India requires preparation, awareness, and respect for local customs. Understanding cultural norms, dressing appropriately when visiting religious sites, planning transportation carefully, and remaining attentive in busy areas contribute to a comfortable and enjoyable journey. Throughout my visits, I met inspiring women from every walk of life—scientists, entrepreneurs, artists, professors, yoga teachers, healthcare professionals, and community leaders. These encounters offered a richer understanding of contemporary India while challenging many stereotypes often portrayed abroad.

More than a destination

This year marks a decade since my first journey to India. Looking back, I realise that every visit has taught me something different—not only about India, but also about myself. What began as a single journey gradually became a lifelong exploration of culture, wellness, friendship, and personal growth.

India challenges perceptions. It broadens horizons. It encourages curiosity, humility, and openness. It reminds us that diversity is not something to fear but something to celebrate. For Tunisian travellers seeking more than a vacation—for those looking for inspiration, cultural immersion, authentic wellness, meaningful encounters, and personal transformation—India offers an experience unlike any other. Some destinations give us memories. India gives us lessons that remain with us long after the journey ends and for that reason, it deserves a place on every traveller's bucket list.