India is a stunning and magnificent country known for its rich history and cultural diversity. The nation continues to be one of the most well-liked vacation spots on earth, drawing trekkers, and explorers of culture and religion.
Let’s go on a tour of the best places to visit in India. Whether you’re planning an adventurous backpacking trip or a luxurious holiday, this list of the best places to visit in India will help you plan your experience.
1. Ladakh
One of the best places to visit in north India. Ladakh offers visitors the opportunity to experience an incredible alpine desert while situated between the rocky peaks of the Karakoram and Zanskar mountain ranges.
One amazing natural view after another may be seen when travelling the area’s twisting roads: tumbling valleys, raging rivers, snow-capped summits, and more. However, before engaging in any rigorous activities, you should spend at least a few days acclimating to the altitude in Leh, the captivating city of Ladakh, which is located 3,500 metres above sea level.
Tourists weren’t allowed into Ladakh until 1974. Due to its remote location and long-standing isolation, the Buddhist-dominated region has maintained a distinct cultural identity and an overall “untouched” vibe. Around Leh’s Old Town, you’ll discover numerous Buddhist temples and monasteries and many vibrant prayer flags flapping in the wind.
Don’t forget to visit the Shanti Stupa, a memorial to global peace, and the nine-story Leh Palace, built in the 17th century. Additionally, this traditional town, which imports relatively minor and is essentially self-sufficient, demonstrates a beautifully sustainable way of life.
2. Manali
A beautiful city in the Himalayan foothills that is one of the best places to visit in India. Manali’s height of 2,050 metres in the Kullu district enchants you with its snow-capped mountains and breathtaking vistas. One of Himachal Pradesh’s most stunning tourist destinations is Manali.
Engage in athletic activities to indulge your daring side while treating yourself to visual pleasure. It is on the list of best places to visit in India because of the aesthetically pleasing atmosphere. Visitors are attracted there by the alpine scenery, the verdant forests, and the tall mountains covered with snow, but it’s also the perfect location for adventure sports.
3. Mawlynnong, Meghalaya
The community recognized by worldwide organisations as “The Cleanest Village in Asia” is hardly known in the nation. Yet, Mawlynnong, a charming village in India, is the picture of peace and order and is one of the country’s most underappreciated destinations.
The appearance of high-end cities is created by well-kept roads, polished streets, immaculate homes, tended front yards, and cobblestone walkways. Their well-maintained public facilities arranged pits for organic and inorganic garbage, and dispersed bamboo trash cans can rival the best modern centres.
Balancing Rock and Living Root Bridge are two of Mawlynnong’s attractions.
4. Agra
You must visit Agra while seeing India. The most well-known attraction in Agra is undoubtedly the Taj Mahal, which is both iconic and breathtaking. A UNESCO World Heritage location and an everlasting symbol of love (an emperor built it in memory of his third wife).
The white-domed building has a collection of other stunning structures, peaceful grounds, and exquisitely designed interiors. The Taj Mahal’s sibling structure, the Agra Fort, is a recognized UNESCO World Heritage Site. The magnificent fort was originally built in 1000, but it was renovated in the 1500s to become a palace.
Akbar’s Monument, a magnificent red-ochre sandstone tomb and another architectural marvel is located 13 kilometres from the Agra Fort.
5. Mumbai
The lively and bustling city is one of India’s most popular places to visit in India. Want to experience India from a more global perspective? Go to Mumbai, a vibrant coastal city home to the finest Bollywood actors and ultra-rich businessmen. In this wealthy metropolis, visitors are seldom far from five-star hotels or fine dining establishments.
Even if those activities are out of your price range, taking a stroll down Marine Drive and soaking in the divine sights of the coastline and magnificent Art Deco structures will make you feel like a king or queen.
The busy “Thieves Market” and Churchgate train station, where millions of handmade lunches are daily packaged and delivered to the city’s office workers, are other places to witness a more genuine, local side of Mumbai.
6. Rishikesh
It is among the for yogis as it is marked as the “ Yoga Capital”.Rishikesh has been on the list for spiritually inclined tourists since the late 1960s when the Beatles spent time at Maharishi Mahesh Yogi’s ashram—now an abandoned facility that has become an off-the-beaten-path tourist destination for fans.
The town is a hub for yoga and pilgrimages. It is located on the banks of the sacred Ganges River in the Himalayan foothills. Don’t forget to explore some hidden waterfalls and the Beatles Ashram.
7. Varanasi
Varanasi, one of the oldest towns still inhabited today, is India’s holiest place. Along the sacred Ganges River, devotees engage in spiritual practices like bathing and publicly burying recently deceased family members.
On the other hand, tourists experience their spiritualism by enjoying sunrise boat rides, releasing floral blessings that float down the river, and watching the fire-filled Hindu chanting sessions from the steep ghats.
The ancient town’s winding alleyways from the ocean resemble an infinite maze. After exploring the confusing city for yourself, you might start to believe the legend that there is still no exact map of Varanasi. If you want to visit some best places to visit in India, Varanasi is a must-add-on.
8. Ziro, Arunachal Pradesh
This stunning and tranquil location in India’s northeast is well-known for being the home of a specific ethnic population. For those seeking tranquillity and a break from the chaos, Ziro Valley is the perfect destination. This location is well-known due to the presence of the ApaTani tribe and the pine hills and rice fields. In addition, the region’s weather is exceptionally hospitable and remains nice all year.
9. Mawsynram
Mawsynram, known for being the wettest spot on earth, is one of the most captivating settlements situated in a stunning natural setting. Undoubtedly, Mawsynram is one of the best places to visit in India during monsoon. Mawsynram narrowly defeats Cherrapunjee to claim the title of India’s wettest location.
This place is best for taking a break from everyday life because of the drizzle and the lush, green surroundings. The term “Maw” in Mawsynram comes from a Khasi word that means “stone.” The enormous stalagmite formations in this settlement that approximate the shape of a “Shivling” are also well known.
In Mawsynram, attractions include Mawsmai Falls, Nohkalikai Falls, Cherrapunjee, Mawlyngbna, and Mawsmai Caves.
10. Amritsar
Amritsar, a sacred city and the centre of the Sikh religion, is located in the northern state of Punjab. It is considered one of the best places to visit in north India.
The Golden Temple, popularly referred to as the Harmandir Sahib is Amritsar’s top tourist destination. This temple, which was constructed more than 400 years ago, is genuinely golden, and Sikhs from all over India and the rest of the world frequently visit it.
The site is home to the world’s largest community kitchen, serving lentils and curries to 100,000 customers daily, including curious tourists.
Spend an afternoon near the Pakistani border while in Amritsar to witness the Beating Retreat Ceremony. Long-standing rivals Pakistan and India send goose-stepping guards to open and lock the border gates in a great ritual at dusk that you won’t soon forget. Arrive early to join the locals in dancing to loud Bollywood music on the streets.
11. Goa
Goa, on India’s western coast, is a former Portuguese colony that combines Indian culture with colonial influences and plenty of international tourists. Goa is well-known in large part due to its magnificent beaches.
Travellers across the globe come to Candolim Beach to enjoy the sun, making it the busiest and most well-liked of all the beaches. In comparison, Anjuna Beach is far less congested. It’s a fantastic location where you can stroll to Chapora Fort and take the beach coastline from a different angle.
Palolem is one of Goa’s most picturesque beaches due to its natural harbour and steep headlands on either side. Adventurers adore Goa, where many outdoor activities are available for anyone looking to have a good time in the sun.
What better day to celebrate than New Year’s Eve in Goa?
It is considered the best place to visit for New Year’s Eve in India. When it comes to New Year’s parties in Goa, the state undoubtedly surpasses every other Indian state.
12. Coorg
Coorg, sometimes referred to as Kodagu historically is a peaceful hillside village tucked away in the Western Ghats. It’s a gift for the senses and a sight that no traveller ever forgets, surrounded by foggy valleys, rolling hills, lush plantations, and crystal-clear waterfalls.
With its district headquarters at Madikeri, which serves as the hub of trade and transportation for the entire district of Kodagu, it is one of the wealthiest hill towns in Karnataka.
Its brilliant and sparkly nights add to the lovely “Scotland of India environment.” Spending the night in a jungle at this location could not be more thrilling and calming. This place will make you say,” This is one of the best places to visit in India.”
13. Kerala
Kerala has its name one of the best places to visit in south India; it is a tropically beautiful region. Explore the area for palm trees, white sand beaches, and ecotourism. In addition, Kerala is known for its renowned backwaters, magnificent houseboats, and temple festivals. Thekkady, a tiger preserve where you may view flora and animals without people, is also located in Kerala.
The capital of Kerala is Kochi, where you may observe the booming local fishing industry in addition to contemporary skyscrapers and historical architecture. Kochi’s ethnic and religious diversity shows a Jewish synagogue, a Dutch palace, the Portuguese Pallipuram Fort, and the Hindu Thrikkakara Temple in the same afternoon.
14. Mysore
Visit Mysore to see that South India is just as beautiful as the North, although culturally distinct. The third-largest city in Karnataka, known for its fine silk, the Mysore art heritage, and mesmerizing Hindu temples with deity carvings that almost reach the clouds, is regarded as the state’s cultural centre.
Most visitors to Mysore come to view the city’s World Heritage-listed palace. With its limitless mirror decorations, stained-glass windows, ornately carved wooden doors, and elaborate mosaic flooring that resembles the interior of a kaleidoscope, this attraction elevates Indian grandeur. The palace is regarded as one of the nation’s best examples of Indo-Saracenic architecture.
15. Mcleodganj
The ideal summer getaway is Mcleodganj, also known as Upper Dharamsala, which is home to the revered Dalai Lama of Tibet. This town, also known as Little Lhasa, is blessed with a picturesque setting dotted with lush hills. Most of its people are of Tibetan heritage, which can be reflected in the culture there.
Mcleodganj, well-liked among thrill seekers, serves as the starting point for hiking treks to Triund Peak and many other summits. Refresh yourself from the scorching heat this summer. Visit Mcleodganj, which is among the best places to visit in June.
Places To Visit Namgyal Monastery, Bhagsu Falls, Bhagsunag Temple, Tsuglagkhang Complex, Dharamkot, and Minikiani Pass, among the McleodGanj attractions. Explore the Tibetan Museum, hike up Triund Peak, and shop at the Tibetan market, among the things to do in McleodGanj.
16. Mount Abu
In Rajasthan’s vast desert and drought-stricken plains, Mount Abu takes pride in being the sole hill station. Consequently, it is one of Rajasthan’s top tourist destinations. Mount Abu, located in the Aravalli Mountain range on the boundary between Gujarat and Rajasthan, is a true traveller’s paradise.
Mount Abu is a beautiful pilgrimage location in addition to offering a respite from the oppressive heat of Rajasthan because of its natural beauty and mild year-round climate.
Attractions include:
- Dilwara Jain Temples
- Nakki Lake
- Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary
Activities in Mount Abu: Nakki Lake boating, Guru Shikhar trekking, Aravali camping, Trevors Tank bird watching, and Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary wildlife sightings are some of the activities available.
17. Ooty
Consider Ooty as the best place to visit in India due to its eye-soothing views. Ooty, a fun tourist destination in Tamil Nadu, is located in the Nilgiris area. It offers a beautiful backdrop of hills and vegetation, making it a fantastic place for honeymooners and families.
An escape to Tamil Nadu has all one needs for relaxation and renewal: Ooty sightseeing. It takes 250 kilometres from Ooty to Kodaikanal, and the most effective way is by taxi or cab. Include all the important Ooty tourist attractions in this itinerary.
Places of attraction:
- Government Rose Garden
- The Tea Factory
- The Tea Museum
- St. Stephen’s Church
- Tiger Hill
Things to do:
- Visit the well-known Ooty Lake.
- Take a lovely ride on a toy train.
- Learn more about the botanical gardens.
18. Andaman Islands
If you’re searching for a traditional beach holiday, India’s Andaman Islands are the place to go. You’ll be treated to views of the Andaman Sea’s turquoise waters, pastel-hued sunsets, powder-white sand beaches lined with coconut palms, and deep forest areas. There is no way a postcard could do this stunning location justice.
There are difficulties for individuals who want to visit one of the few dozen islands accessible to tourists because of its extremely distant location—it is closer to Indonesia than to mainland India. It is far away from the mainland of India but it is on the list of the best places to visit in India.
You’ll witness rare birds and get the opportunity to see beautiful coral reefs while having virtually exclusive access to some of India’s best beaches. People who love culture and history will also enjoy exploring Ross Island’s slowly disappearing Victorian British ruins.
19. Darjeeling
Nothing compares to what you’ll find in Darjeeling as far as sightseeing in India goes. The West Bengal hill region is renowned for its tranquil Buddhist monasteries, breathtaking snow-capped peaks and lush green tea gardens. A mountain bike or trek can be planned here in little time at all.
Riding the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is one of the most well-liked activities in Darjeeling. The 140-year-old “Toy Train,” which is propelled by a vintage steam locomotive, transports passengers on two-hour enjoyable journeys between Darjeeling and Ghum, a journey that is frequently cited as one of the most picturesque train rides in the entire world.
