Best Places To Visit In India

With so many places to visit in the Indian sub-continent, every foreign tourist finds it difficult to choose one destination. The country has a lot to offer to tourists of all different age groups. One can experience a rich variety of cultures and traditions in the different parts of India. To help you plan an amazing trip to India and experience the magnificence and beauty of the country, here are some of the best locations to visit. 

Destinations in Northern India 

Are you a mountain lover or an adventure enthusiast? Then North India will be a pure delight for you. This part of the country has plenty of popular and picturesque locations, with some cities nestled in the great Himalayas. Here are some gorgeous locations to explore: 

The Kashmir Circuit 

Pahalgam, Sonmarg, Gulmarg, And Srinagar 

Popularly known as Heaven on Earth, Kashmir is one of the best holiday destinations in India. The breath-taking views, cheerful people, and colorful culture make the vacation perfect. The Dal Lake in Srinagar, the stunning valleys of Sonmarg, the serenity of Pahalgam and the adventures in Gulmarg will surely impress you.  

Key attractions: Dal Lake, Mughal Gardens, Nagin Lake, Strawberry Field, Betab Valley 

How to reach: you can fly to the Srinagar airport (14 km away) or reach Udhampur railway station 

When to visit: April to October 

Dalhousie 

A popular hill station nestled in the Himalayas, Dalhousie is a peaceful location for couples, solo travelers, and photographers. The city is adorned with mountains, luxuriant valleys, a clean river, and the colonial houses. The adventure lovers can enjoy trekking. Wildlife spotting is another interesting activity when in Dalhousie. It is also known as the Mini Switzerland of India for its beauty.  

Key attractions: Kalatop Wild Reserve, Dainkund valley, St. Francis Catholic Church, Panchpula 

How to Reach: Pathankot has the nearest airport and railway station 

When to visit: March to May 

Dharamshala 

People looking for spirituality or other recreations can visit this city. This location has a Tibetan charm and is the residence of the Dalai Lama. The Dal Lake, deodar forest, Dhauladhar Range makes this small and quaint hill station worth visiting. In February the city becomes a popular camping site. Just 9 km away is another hill station called Mcleodganj which has many more adventures for you to enjoy.  

Key attractions: Tsuglagkhang Complex, Kangra Fort, Dal Lake 

How to reach: you can travel by bus from Delhi, or reach the Gaggal airport (18 km away). Pathankot railway station is the nearest if you wish to reach by train. 

When to visit: February to June 

Kullu & Manali 

They are the twin cities perfect for adventure lovers. You can enjoy trekking, paragliding, and other thrilling adventure sports in the beautiful climate of this surreal topography. The place is surrounded with greenery all around. You can also view the beautiful Beas river in Kullu.  

Key attractions: Hadimba temple, Vashisht Hot Water Springs, Himalayan Nyingmapa Gompa 

How to reach: Chandigarh is the closes rail and flight hub to reach these two cities 

When to visit: March to June 

Nainital, Dehradun, Mussoorie 

These three cities are perfect for lovers of nature. Nainital has a beautiful lake where you can enjoy boating. The city has wonderful mountain terrains covered in tall pine trees where you can go trekking. Dehradun is another popular hill station in Northern India for family vacations. It is a getaway from the hustle-bustle of the big cities. With scenic waterfalls and gorgeous valleys, Mussoorie is one of the most visited hill stations in India. You can enjoy boating, horse riding and skating when in this city. Cozy cafes overlooking the mountains are an attraction in this city. 

Key attractions: Snow Viewpoint, Raj Bhavan, and Naina Devi Temple in Nainital, Shikhar Fall, Sahastradhara in Dehradun and Mussoorie Lake, Jharipani Falls, Camelback Road in Mussoorie 

How to reach: Nainital can be reached by road from Delhi or by train in Kathgodam. Dehradun has both a railway station and airport, which is close to Mussoorie as well. 

When to visit: March to June 

Leh-Ladakh

Known as the Bikers Paradise, this city is marked by the Himalayan ranges and is covered in snow almost all year round. The colorful monasteries and the smiling people will make your trip worth remembering. This is something you shouldn’t miss when traveling in North India. 

Key attractions: Nubra Valley, Zanskar Liver, Pangong Tso Lake, Stakna Monastery 

How to reach: Leh has an airport connected with major cities like Delhi, Srinagar, and Jammu 

When to visit: April to June 

Delhi  

The capital city is famous for having some of the amazing tourist attractions in the country. With an elaborate history, the political destination has monuments, temples, mosques, forts known for the extravagant architecture. The street food and bustling markets also add to the charm of the city.  

Key attractions: Red Fort, Rashtrapati Bhavan, Lodhi Garden, Lotus temple, India Gate, Qutub Minar 

How to reach: Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi is connected to all major cities across the country. You can also reach by road or train. 

When to visit: February and March 

Agra 

This city is famous for holding one of the wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal. The place attracts tourists round the year. The Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri are two other destinations to visit once done with the Taj Mahal.  

Key attractions: Taj Mahal, Tomb of Itimad-ul-Daula, Fatehpur Sikri 

How to reach: Taj expressway connects Agra to Delhi. It also has its railhead while Delhi airport is the nearest. 

When to visit: November to March 

Varanasi and Allahabad 

These are two famous cities of Uttar Pradesh known for being the religious hub. Varanasi, also called Benaras has the Holy Ganga river flowing through it and the evening aarti in the banks of the river is a major attraction. It is a perfect destination to rejuvenate one’s mind and soul.  

Allahabad is a nearby city popular for the Triveni Sangam, where the three major rivers of the country, Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati confluence.  

Key attractions: Dashashwamedh Ghat, Vishwanath Temple (Varanasi); Sangam, Khusro Bagh, Swaraj Bhavan (Allahabad) 

How to reach: Both cities have their railheads and airports.  

When to visit: October to March 

Amritsar 

The famous Golden temple, delicious food items, and the cheerful people of the city makes it a must-visit city. Amritsar has tourists flowing in round the year. The Changing of Guard is an interesting event to watch at the Wagah Border when in Amritsar. 

Key attractions: Jallianwala Bagh, Wagah Border, Golden Temple 

How to reach: the city has its railway station and airport 

When to visit: November to March 

Destinations in South India 

Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Kerala are the four southern states of India which welcome tourists with love and warmth. One can experience a treasure of culture, languages, traditions, and cuisines traveling in the southern part of the country. Some of the cities worth visiting are: 

Hyderabad  

The capital city of Telangana, Hyderabad is the home to many forts, monuments, palaces, and museums. You can also experience the regality of the Nizams in the delicacies available across the cafes of the city. Ramoji film city, the largest in the world is also located in Hyderabad. This cosmopolitan city is a combination of both young and old traditions.  

Key attractions: Hussain Sagar Lake, Golconda Fort, Charminar, Salar Jung Museum, Ramoji Film City 

How to reach: the city is connected with all other major cities through railways and the Rajiv Gandhi International airport 

When to visit: October to February 

Chennai 

The capital city of Tamil Nadu is a mix of old and new cultures. The city is known to have preserved the rich old South Indian culture and traditions, and on the other hand, the cosmopolitan lifestyle is growing. The second-longest urban beach is a part of this city. Even though a busy city, Chennai has a lot to offer to its tourists. 

Key attractions: Marina Beach, Edward Elliot’s Beach, Fort St. George, Arignar Anna Zoological Park, B.M. Birla Planetarium 

How to reach: Chennai International airport is connected with many cities across the world. Chennai Central is the main railway junction in the city. 

When to visit: October to February 

Coorg 

This small town in the state of Karnataka is surrounded by beautiful mountains and covered in mist, making it a paradise for nature lovers. Aromatic spices, coffee plantations, and a variety of flora and fauna define this place. You can also enjoy trekking to some forts and temples in this hilly terrain. The town is also one of the very few Tibetan settlements found in southern India.  

Key attractions: Abbey falls, Barapole River, Tadiandamol Peak, Namdroling Monastery, Madikeri Fort 

How to reach: The nearest airports are in Mysore, Mangalore, and Bangalore while Mysore railway station is closest.  

When to visit: October to March 

Kodaikanal 

This is a hill station in Tamil Nadu which can relieve you from the humidity of other cities in South India. Surrounded by misty clouds, the city has a park, a nice lake, waterfalls, and plenty of unique trees and plants. The place is also famous for the Kurunji shrubs which bloom once in every 12 years. 

Key attractions: Silver Cascade falls, Bryant Park, Guna cave/Devil’s Kitchen, Kodaikanal Solar Observatory, Kodaikanal Lake, Pillar Rocks 

How to reach: the closest airports are in Madurai and Coimbatore and the Kodai road should be taken to reach the city. 

When to visit: October to June 

Ooty & Coonoor 

Ooty is known as the Queen of Hill stations. The city has an expansion of tea gardens and you can also experience the hustle and bustle of city life in this hill station. You can enjoy a toy train ride from Ooty to Coonoor, which covers a total of 19 km. This train ride has been listed in the World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Tea factories, churches, and museums can also be a part of your Ooty visit. 

Key attractions: Nilgiri Mountain Railway Line, Deer Park, Ooty Lake, Kamaraj Sagar Dam, Dolphin’s Nose 

How to reach: Coimbatore airport and Mettupalayam railway station are the closest  

When to visit: October to June 

Pondicherry 

This is one of the Union Territories of India. It is a popular holiday destination for both foreign and local tourists. You can experience a mix of French culture with the indigenous culture in Pondicherry. There are several beaches where you can spend time. The city boasts of villas with teak columns and vibrant yellow walls which are worth seeing.  

Key attractions: French War Memorial, Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Promenade Beach, Rock Beach 

How to reach: This place has its airport and railway station 

When to visit: October to March 

Munnar 

A beautiful hill station in Kerala, Munnar is covered in green tea plantations. The city is wrapped in misty clouds and you can experience a rich variety of flavors of tea. One can spot elephants and can enjoy a bath in the fresh waterfall when in Munnar.  

Key attractions: Anamudi, Tea Museum, Nayamakad Waterfall, Carmelagiri Elephant Park, Kolukkumalai Tea Estate, Eravikulam National Park 

How to reach: Cochin international airport and railheads at Aluva and Ernakulam are the closes to this city 

When to visit: October to May 

Kochi 

In this city, you can see some of the oldest structures like synagogues, palaces, huge bungalows, cafes from the Dutch era, and traditional Chinese fishing nets. Other than historical structures, Kochi has a range of South Indian delicacies for the tourists to enjoy.  

Key attractions: Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica, Fort Kochi, Mattancherry Palace, Paradesi Synagogue, Willingdon Island 

How to reach: Cochin international airport and railhead Ernakulam are the closes to this city 

When to visit: October to February 

Kanyakumari 

This is the last point of the Indian subcontinent in the South. The sunrise and sunsets at Bay of Bengal, Indian Ocean, and the Arabian Sea are the major attraction in this city. The Vivekananda Rock Memorial is a few minutes away from the city and lounges are available to take you there. During the day you can go around many forts, temples, and other historical sites.  

Key attractions: Our Lady of Ransom Church, Vivekananda Rock Memorial, Trisea Sangamam, Vattakottai Fort 

How to reach: the city has its railway station, while the closes airport is at Trivandrum 

When to visit: October to February 

Alleppey  

This city in Kerala is popular for the backwaters. Boating in the backwaters is a once in a lifetime experience. The location is a favorite of couples traveling together. If you are lucky to visit the city in August, you can witness the famous boat race of Kerala here.  

Key attractions: International Coir Museum, Alappuzha Beach, Pathiramanal, Krishnapuram Palace 

How to reach: the airport at Cochin is nearby if you travel by air and by train the nearest station is at Alappuzha 

When to visit: November to February, August (boat races) 

Madurai 

One of the oldest and popular cities of Tamil Nadu, Madurai is known as the Temple City. You can experience the authentic Tamil culture and heritage when in Madurai. The city is adorned with temples of religious importance and architectural beauty. Among all, the Meenakshi Amman temple is a popular religious site for the followers of Hinduism. 

Key attractions: Meenakshi Amman Temple, Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal, Koodal Azhagar Temple, Thirupparamkunram Murugan Temple, Pandi Kovil Temple 

How to reach: the city is well connected with an international airport as well as a railway junction 

When to visit: October to March 

Andaman and Nicobar islands 

These islands are a popular destination for foreign tourists. Surrounded by water on all sides, Andaman and Nicobar islands are home to multiple tribes and has many interesting historical facts associated with them. The flora and fauna of this location are what attracts tourists from all over the world. 

Key attractions: Havelock island, Cellular jail, Radhanagar beach, Ross Island, Long island 

How to reach: you can take a direct flight from Kolkata or Chennai to Port Blair airport 

When to visit: October to May 

Destinations in Eastern India 

The places in eastern India are a pure paradise for the people who love nature and adventures. This part of the country is rich in cultural heritage. Some of the top cities/town to visit in East India are as follows: 

Kolkata 

The city of joy, Kolkata was earlier known as Calcutta and is the former national capital. It is one of the largest cities in the country and a cultural potpourri. You can spend time visiting various museums, temples, palaces, art galleries, and colonial-era buildings. The city is also a delight for food lovers.  

Key attractions: Indian Museum, Howrah Bridge, Victoria Memorial, Park Street, Dakhineshwar Kali Temple, Belur Math, South Park Cemetery 

How to reach: the city is well connected with an international airport as well as a railway junction 

When to visit: October to March 

Sundarbans  

This is a mangrove area in the delta which is formed by the confluence of the Ganga, Brahmaputra, and Meghna rivers with the Bay of Bengal. This is the largest mangrove forest in the world covering an area of 40000 square feet. Tourists visit the place to spot the Royal Bengal Tiger, and other wildlife in the place. You can also have a taste of rural life when in Sunderbans. 

Key attractions: Sundarban National Park, tiger reserve, the biosphere reserve 

How to reach: The closest railhead is in Canning (48 km away). You have to reach Sunderbans through waterways. 

When to visit: September to March 

Gangtok 

This is the capital city of Sikkim which gives you a beautiful view of the Mountain Kanchenjunga at a distant skyline. You can enjoy a spectacular view of the entire city through a cable car ride. Gangtok is a perfect location for the trekkers and nature photographers. 

Key attractions: Nathula Pass, Rumtek Monastery, MG road 

How to reach: the closest airport is in Bagdogra and the nearest railhead is at Jalpaiguri. You can also enjoy a drive through the curved roads on the hilly terrain. 

When to visit: all year round 

Shillong  

A cosmopolitan town and the capital of Meghalaya. This is a hill station with perfect weather and some of the best views you can ever imagine. The city is popularly known as the Scotland of the east for its beauty. With pine trees on both sides of the road, the city has parks, lakes, viewpoints, museum, and many more attractions. Cherrapunjee, the place with the heaviest rainfall is just a three hours’ drive from the city.  

Key attractions: Umiam lake, Lady Hydari Park, Ward’s Lake, Shillong Peak, Elephant Falls, Laitlum Canyons, Don Bosco museum 

How to reach: you can land at the Umroi airport or Guwahati airport and drive to Shillong.  

When to visit: March to June 

Majuli Island 

This is the world’s largest freshwater island in the river Brahmaputra, located in Assam. Covered in lush green vegetation, this is a pollution-free destination that takes you very close to nature. A boat ride in the freshwater is one of the best experiences you can have when visiting Majuli. 

Key attractions: Kamalabari Satra, Dakhinpat Satra, Garmur 

How to reach: it is just a 20 km drive from the Jorhat city of Assam 

When to visit: July to March 

Tawang 

Popular as the birthplace of the great Dalai Lama, Tawang is home to many beautiful Buddhist monasteries. The town is located at a height of 3048 meters above sea level. The city is a peaceful one away from the noise of bigger cities.  

Key attractions: Sela Pass, Tawang monastery, Madhuri Lake 

How to reach: you can drive from Tezpur to Tawang after landing at either Tezpur airport or Guwahati airport, which are the closest 

When to visit: September to March 

Bodh Gaya 

An important destination for the Buddhist pilgrims, Bodh Gaya in Bihar is an old village. The Bodhi tree is the main attraction of the location. Lord Buddha is believed to have attained enlightenment while meditating under this tree. There are multiple monasteries, shrines, and temples too. A magnificent statue of Lord Buddha is also worth seeing.  

Key attractions: Mahabodhi temple, Bodhi tree, Great Buddha Statue, Tibetan refugee market  

How to reach: Gaya airport and railway station are the closest to Bodh Gaya. Then it is a 13 km drive. 

When to visit: October to March 

Ziro  

This is the old city of Arunachal Pradesh and the best vacation destination for lovers of nature. It is home to a unique tribal group and the balmy climate makes it suitable for visitors round the year. The rice fields and pine hills are the major attraction of Ziro. 

Key attractions: Kile Pakho, Talley Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, Tarin Fish farm 

How to reach: the closest airport is in Jorhat while Naharalagun and North Lakhimpur are the nearby railheads.  

When to visit: all year round 

Konark 

This is a historic city located in the state of Orissa. The city is popular for the Sun temple, which has been declared as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. The sandy beaches and Annual Dance festival are a major attraction for tourists.  

Key attractions: Sun Temple, ASI Museum, Chandrabagha Beach 

How to reach: Bhubaneswar airport is the closest and then a short drive can take you to Konark. 

When to visit: September to March 

Puri  

Another popular city of Orissa, Puri is a pilgrimage site for the Hindus. The Jagannath temple is the major reason for tourists round the year. You can also enjoy the beaches and various food items when in Puri. 

Key attractions: Puri beach, Chilika lake, Jagannath temple 

How to reach: the city has its railway station and by air, you can land at Bhuvaneswar airport. 

When to visit: July to March 

Digha  

A blissful beach town located in West Bengal. The place is a peaceful one and the beaches are its beauty. You can always plan two days in Digha when touring West Bengal. 

Key attractions: Digha beach, Marine station of Zoological Survey of India 

How to reach: It is 4-5 hours long drive once you land in Kolkata.  

When to visit: July to March 

Destinations in Western India 

This part of the country has some of the most popular vacation destinations loved by both foreign and local tourists. You can experience beaches, deserts and some wonderful cities in Western India.  

Goa  

The land of beaches, exotic sunsets, and crazy nights for party lovers. There are many little villages and delicious cuisine for you to enjoy. Portuguese culture is quite prevalent in this state. It has more than 100 km long coastline. Other than beaches there are many beautiful churches, temples, waterfalls to enjoy. If you love water sports, Goa has got multiple options for you. 

Key attractions: Calangute beach, Basilica of Bom Jesus, Silver Sand beach 

How to reach: the place has its airport and railway station and a drive from Mumbai is also fun. 

When to visit: October to March 

Udaipur  

Known as the City of Lakes, Udaipur is a popular holiday destination in Rajasthan. The Aravalli hills surround the entire city making it a lovely place with beautiful sceneries. It is also a place of mesmerizing temples and exquisite architecture. A boat ride in Lake Pichola is also a major activity to do when in Udaipur. 

Key attractions: City Palace, Lake Pichola, Fateh Sagar Lake 

How to reach: you can easily reach Udaipur airport from all major Indian cities 

When to visit: October to March 

Jaipur 

The capital of Rajasthan is known as the Pink City. The historical background of the city and the vibrant culture of the city makes it a tourist attraction. It is a royal, majestic, and the most colorful cities in India.  

Key attractions: City Palace, Hawa Mahal, Amer Fort 

How to reach: The city is well connected with an international airport and railhead 

When to visit: October to March 

Kutch 

This is the white desert of India, located in Gujarat. Kutch is in the shape of a tortoise. You can enjoy camel rides in the sandy desert. Nighttime you can camp and enjoy performances by the local artists.  

Key attractions: Dholavira, Rann of Kutch, Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary 

How to reach: Bhuj is the nearest railhead which is connected to all major Indian cities 

When to visit: July to March 

Ranthambore  

The city has one of the best tiger reserves in the country. The Tigers are said to be friendly in this reserve. The flora and fauna of this location is also an attraction. 

Key attractions: Ranthambore Fort, Ranthambore Tiger Reserve, Jeep Safari Ranthambore 

How to reach: Sawai Madhopur is the closes railhead. One can also drive from Jaipur city. 

When to visit: October to April 

Mumbai  

The commercial capital of India, Mumbai is known as the City of Dreams. The city is a paradox of new and old traditions. The city has a long Colonial history. The European and Portuguese cultures have left a mark on the city. The city has a beautiful beach and many interesting places to visit.  

Key attractions: Gateway of India, Marine Drive, Colaba causeway, Sea Link, Juhu Beach 

How to reach: Mumbai International airport is connected to most international locations and Indian cities as well.  

When to visit: October to February 

Ajanta and Ellora Caves 

This is another World Heritage Site listed by UNESCO. The magnificent paintings and carvings on the walls are the major attractions. If you want to experience the Indian paintings and Sculpture, then these caves must be on your vacation list. 

Key attractions: Grineshwar temple, Ajanta caves, Buddhist caves 

How to reach: Mumbai International airport is connected to most international locations and Indian cities as well.  

When to visit: October to February 

Conclusion 

The destinations listed above are just a small part of the country. These cities are some popular ones and can give you a taste of various cultures and heritage of the subcontinent.