Taj Mahal, Haridwar on former F1 champ Mika Hakkinen's bucket list

Former Formula One champion Mika Hakkinen has seen lots of India — on celluloid. He now wants to explore it for himself, with his children in tow. The two-time racing world champion, who was in Mumbai recently, told ETPanache that he's wanted to explore the country ever since he saw a documentary on India.

"Once my kids get a bit older and if they want to come, we could all have a great experience here. Mumbai has been an incredible experience and there are a number of other places that I have understood which are very unique," the 49-year-old racer said.

On top of his bucket list are two of the most touristy destinations — the Taj Mahal and Haridwar to see the might Ganges. "The Ganga, where people go to do rituals, is something which is very interesting. When you understand the history and the past and listen to the people, it is fascinating," he said.