Ahh, it’s holiday time and for many this means taking a trip back to India.  The weather will be warmer and you will have lots of time to spend with friends and relatives.  As you plan your trip, make sure you also schedule some extra time to check out India’s top restaurants, newest hot spots and best shops before you return home.  Remember, you can maintain your hip factor by knowing exactly where to go and what to do. 

To help you out, CitySaheli has identified some top picks if you’re traveling to Mumbai, Delhi or Goa.  This quick reference guide will surely satisfy your craving to visit some of country’s hippest places.  Enjoy!

MUMBAI

Shop.

Chor Bazaar (Thieves Market)
At this age old Chor Bazaar you can find a little of everything.  A great place to search for antiques for your home.

Fab India
You’ll find Indian textiles and artistry that can be used for cool home furnishings and accessories.  Very affordable prices.

Amara
If you’re looking for fine fashion, this shop won’t let you down.  Here you’ll find garb by a range of exclusive designers.

Eat.

Konkan Café
Found in the Taj President, this striking restaurant is decorated to resemble villages homes along the coast.  Known for excellent fish cooked with local spices.

Masala Kraft
Stop here for contemporary Indian cuisine with a western twist.  You’ll feel the east meets west vibe from the moment you walk in the doors.

Wasabi
To try some of the worlds best Japanese cuisine at this spot, but be sure to make your reservation several days in advance.  Don’t forget to ask for a  sea view when you call ahead.

Play.

Blue Frog
A former warehouse in Mumbai’s mill district has been transformed into an acoustic lounge, consisting of circular booths that change color.  Stop here to hear great live tunes. 

Hawaiian Shack
One of the most popular pubs in Bandra, this spot loves to play 80s music all night long. 

Dome
Located in the InterContinental Marine Drive, this is probably Mumbai’s finest bar.  Stop here early to see the beautiful sunset.

Henry Tham
If you’re looking for a real lounge, stop here.  You’ll find its sophisticatedly decorated with South East Asian artifacts and pumping with world music.

DELHI

Shop.

Chandni Chowk (Closed on Sunday)
Today, this market is known as one of India’s best wholesale markets for textiles and metals and is also the most crowded market in the world. The entire area was designed by Jahanara Begum, Shah Jahan’s daughter and was then inhabited by the well-to-do families of that time. Be ready to bargain for out of this world Kashmiri carpets and silver bangles.

The Cottage Industry Emporium (Closed on Sunday)
Located in the heart of Connaught place is the government run one stop shop for every kind of arts & craft products made in India.  You’ll find jewelry, silk, sarees, furnishing, carpets, furniture, toys, trinkets, clothes, tea, silver, sandalwood, pottery, brass items and more!

Johns Brothers
Also located in Connaught place, get custom made shoes or boots made here.  Although not cheap, great if you want a unique style and perfect fit.

Eat.

Magique
Imagine Nikki Beach in Delhi.  Magique, located approximately 40 minutes from the city center, is well worth the trip.  Run by one of India’s most well known chefs, Maru Sikka, Magique is known as one of Delhi’s “sexiest” restaurants.  According to Black Ink, “Insiders know to call ahead and ask Sikka for one of his special Indian creations, such as crab-lychee wontons, which are indeed magical.”

Wasabi by Morimoto
After the enormous success of the Mumbai Wasabi, the Taj Mahal Hotel in Delhi recently opened another restaurant by acclaimed chef Masaharu Morimoto.  Popular especially amongst Delhi’s “rich and famous” and the city’s Japanese expat community. 

The Spice Route
Located inside the Hotel Imperial, The Spice Route is heralded as one of the top ten restaurants in the world by Condé Nast Traveler.  Many dishes here were inspired by the famed Spice Route from the Southern coast of India into Southeast Asia.

The Taipan
Located in the Oberoi hotel, this restaurant is said to have the best Chinese food in New Delhi. Taipan offers cuisine from all the Provinces of China set against panoramic view of the city as a backdrop.

Play.

Olive Bar & Kitchen 
Recently back in business, this hot spot should not be missed.  Find a seat at the bar or courtyard if you want to settle here for the night.  Thinking of small plates with your drinks – be sure to try the goat cheese soufflé or fresh mozzarella pizza.

Elevate
Located on the fifth floor of the Centrestage Mall in Noida, this spot boasts the largest club space in the country.  You can find super DJs like Oakenfold and Skazi here. The four floor club even includes a trance only terrace.

GOA

Shop.

Municipal Market
In this lively and crowded market found in old Goa, you’ll find fresh local produce as well as women bringing in the daily catch.

Eat.

Banyan Tree
One of Goa’s best Thai restaurants which is found in the Taj Holiday Vilage.

Calamari
This is one of the many beach shacks found in Candolim.  Stop here for true Goan-style seafood.

Play.

Sweet Chilli Garden Restaurant and Lounge
For live music, stop at this popular open air restaurant with several levels to relax and enjoy a cocktail.

Café Del Mar
This is one of Palolem’s most popular beach shacks.  You’ll find cocktails, hookah pipes and fantastic beats to enjoy while on the beach.