One of the world’s largest countries, the rich array of landscapes, vibrant spiritual and cultural roots and fascinating history you’ll discover during a trip to India are sure to make any visit a truly memorable experience. But where do you even begin to plan a visit to a country that can boast such magnificent sights as Taj Mahal, Delhi’s Red Fort, Amritsar’s Golden Temple, Kashmir’s paradise like Dal Lake, Varanasi’s sacred ghats, and the majestic white sands of the Andaman Islands? And I haven’t even scratched the surface yet! Throw in the living root bridges of Assam, the famed Darjeeling Himalayan Railway and the stunning desert setting of Jodhpur’s Mehrangarh Fort, and you can begin to see what I mean. If you’re looking for a little inspiration, then read on for the best places to visit in India.
1. Pahalgam (from USD 67.49)
Jaw-dropping scenery awaits anyone who heads for this corner of Jammu and Kashmir state, with its breathtaking alpine landscape. Home to the lush meadows and snowy peaks of Betaab Valley (which gets its name from the hit Bollywood film Betaab) and the stunning panoramas at the village of Sheikhpora, the area around the town of Pahalgam is a veritable feast for the eyes. This beauty extends to its importance as a cultural centre, with the town being closely linked to the annual pilgrimage which centres on the nearby caves of Amarnath Cave Temple. Other noted landmarks include Overa Aru Wildlife Sanctuary and the likes of Sheshnag Lake and Tulian Lake.
Pahalgam Day Tour from Srinagar, India - Klook
Duration: 9hrs - 10hrsDuration
2. Agra (from USD 24.01)
Agra needs little introduction. Home to no fewer than three UNESCO World Heritage Sites - including the irresistibly romantic Taj Mahal-the city boasts a host of cultural riches for eager visitors to explore. Other notable places of interest include the former seat of Mughal emperors at Agra Fort, and the stunning Mughal-era buildings of nearby Fatehpur Sikri - perhaps best exemplified by Buland Darwaza (Door of Victory) which sits at the latter’s entrance. What’s more, Agra is just over 200 kilometres (almost 130 miles) from India’s capital of New Delhi, making it possible to visit both cities during your stay.
Traveler's tips
If you are staying in Agra, you can take a rickshaw to the Taj Mahal for about 200 INR. Make sure to plan your visit to the Taj Mahal during off-season days and on weekdays - this way, you can avoid crowds and explore this magnificent structure with ease. For great pictures and weather, try visiting the Taj Mahal during monsoons.
Agra: Taj Mahal with Mausoleum Skip-the-Line tickets & guide
Duration: 3.0 hour
3. Ahmedabad (from USD 125.0)
This former capital of Gujarat is home to a host of fascinating sites - from Old Ahmedabad historic core (which is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site) to Gandhi Ashram at Sabarmati where India’s iconic advocate for independence once lived and which serves to celebrate his life. Other noted landmarks include the stunning ancient Adalaj Stepwell and its intricate carvings, as well as the Calico Museum of Textiles, which today boasts a huge collection of modern and ancient cloth materials. Go for a wander around the many alleys of the walled city and you’ll also find a host of cultural delights - be they faith-based or of culinary persuasion.
Ahmedabad Private City Tour with Lunch
Duration: 8 hours
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4. Assam
This state in the north-east of the country boasts beautiful rugged hills and some stunning cultural and natural sights. These range from silk bazaars in Guwahati and the striking domes of Kamakhya temple complex to the iconic double-decker root bridges of Nongriat village (a world heritage site in the neighbouring state of Meghalaya). The state offers its gateway to the seven stunning Nohsngithiang Falls of the rainy season and Mawsmai Caves - the longest cave system in the entire country, both attractions are located in Meghalaya. Wildlife fans will also find much to admire - including the likes of Kaziranga National Park, the protected elephant and rhino populations of the Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary and the riverside reserve of the Dibru-Saiklhowa National Park.
6-Day Tour of Exotic Northeast India: Mawsmai Caves, Double Decker Living Root Bridge and Kaziranga National Park
Duration: 6 days
5. Amritsar (from USD 78.0)
Located in the Punjab, the city of Amritsar is home to the world-famous Golden Temple (or Harmandir Sahib). This stunning gold-clad building sits on a causeway amid the Armit Sarovar lake and serves as the holiest site in Sikhism. The complex, naturally, is home to a host of important documents, paintings and cultural artefacts from the religion. Explore the wider city and you’ll also find Gobindgarh Fort, Ram Bagh Palace (the former home of the 19th century Maharaja Ranjit Singh), and Bhagwan Valmiki Tirath Sthal temple. Head outside the city and the traditional Wagah Border ceremony between India and neighbour Pakistan is another noted attraction.
Traveler's tips
Do not miss out on savoring the delicious langar at the Golden Temple. Langar is a free religious offering of food to all those who visit the temple. You can also do langar seva and contribute your services in preparing the food. The food served is simple and wholesome and signifies equality and unity amongst all those who eat it.
Private Full-Day Amritsar Tour with Beating Retreat Ceremony
Duration: 9.0 hour
6. Aurangabad (from USD 172.0)
Welcome to the ‘City of Gates’. Nestled in amongst the famed Deccan Traps, Aurangabad is home to a host of stunning attractions, a number of which owe their existence to the area’s unusual geography. The visually stunning rock-cut temple complex of Ellora and the Ajanta Caves - both of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites - as well as the Buddhist shrines of Aurangabad Caves, all owe their existence to the strata underfoot. Perhaps its most famed attraction is the marble edifice of Bibi ka Maqbara shrine, a 17th-century monument that was inspired by the Taj Mahal. Other noted sights include the city’s unusual proliferation of gates (no fewer than 52 of them - hence the nickname) and the medieval Daulatabad Fort, among others.
Caves in Aurangabad Private Full-day Sightseeing Tour
Duration: 8.0 hour
7. Jaisalmer (from USD 50.0)
Dubbed the Golden City thanks to the yellow earthen tones of the sandstone used in many of its historic structures, Jaisalmer is home to some breathtakingly beautiful man-made sights. The fort from which it gets its name is one such noted attraction. Built almost 800 years ago, its colossal walls tower above the town from its lofty perch on Meru Hill, and make for an irresistible target for photographers - the beautiful architecture taking on different hues depending on the time of the day. The fort, which is still home to around a quarter of the local population, boasts a number of important attractions itself, from Jain temples to the royal palace. Other sights include the historic garden complex of Bada Bagh and the man-made waters of Gadsisar Lake and its picturesque shrines and temples.
Jaisalmer: Private City Tour with Camel Safari
Duration: 8.0 hour
8. Corbett (from USD 150.6)
Wildlife and landscape fans will likely want to make a beeline for the Jim Corbett National Park. Located among the Himalayan foothill landscapes of Uttarakhand state, the park is a noted tiger reserve - and one of the few in the country that allows visitors to stay overnight. Named after a famous hunter who was born in the state - but who also spoke of the need for conservation - the park, which he helped set up, is home to a number of rare species. As well as tigers, the park is home to otters and fish-eating crocodiles. While those who seek charming landscapes will likely enjoy the wider area’s snowy peaks and the views of the plains and ridges.
4D3N Jim Corbett And Nainital Tour From Delhi - Klook
Duration: 4 Day(s) Duration
9. Delhi (from USD 10.0)
Home to India’s capital, Delhi is the second-most populous city in the country, which naturally makes it a rewarding destination for those seeking impressive sights. These include the iconic Red Fort - an imperial residence dating back to the 1600s which has become a symbol of the country and today operates as a museum. Other highly popular spots include the Jama Masjid mosque, the striking five-storey tall minaret of Qutub Minar, the stunning tomb to Mughal emperor Humayun and the triumphal arch of India Gate - a war memorial erected in the 1920s. Cultural attractions include the famed Chandni Chowk bazaar’s spice stalls and culinary offerings, as well as museums to noted independence advocates Jawaharlal Nehru and Mahatma Gandhi.
Delhi: Old and New Delhi Private Guided City Tour
Duration: 4.0 to 8.0 hour
10. Alleppey (from USD 200.0)
Also known by its modern name of Alappuzha, Alleppey is famed for the area’s extensive series of rivers, lakes, lagoons and canals and the iconic houseboats which call the town’s backwaters home. This low-lying terrain includes the large 847 sq m (2195 sq km) Vembanad Lake - the longest lake in the whole of India - as well as six major rivers. These extensive waters are home to all manner of aquatic and birdlife - from migratory cormorants to colourful common teal - so wildlife fans should keep an eagle-eye, and their binoculars, to hand. Visitors to the area can enjoy stays in the houseboats and cruises along the waterways, or pop along to noted landmarks like Mullakkal Temple or Alappuzha Beach.
Alappuzha Houseboat Private Overnight Cruise from Kochi
Duration: 2 days
11. Mysore (from USD 121.0)
Home to the visually stunning Mysore Palace. this city has been an important cultural centre for centuries. The capital of the former kingdom of the same name for well over five centuries, the city is also home to a number of other noted palaces and landmarks. These include Jaganmohan Palace and Lalitha Mahal. Away from those, the city is also the location of a popular zoo, Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens, which stretches across almost 160 acres (65 hectares) and houses more than 1300 animals. Head just outside the city to the Chamundi Hils and you’ll also find Sri Chamundeshwari Devi Temple, a Hindu site with a Gopura standing some seven-storeys high.
Traveler's tips
Mysore must be explored at a slow pace. There are several attractions in the city which need your time and patience to be enjoyed completely. The Mysore Palace takes about a day to tour. Similarly, Chamundi Hills is a place where you can slow down, enjoy the view of the hills, and taste delicious street food - do not miss the green chilly fritters here!
Mysore: Private Excursion with Lunch from Bangalore
Duration: 12.0 hour
12. Jaipur (from USD 44.0)
Jaipur is a veritable feast for the eyes and has been dubbed the Pink City thanks to the characteristic red sandstone which is used in many of the buildings. Notable sites include the likes of Jal Mahal lake palace, the Amber Palace fort (which dates back to the 16th century), and other iconic palaces - such as the 18th century City Palace and the so-called ‘Palace of the Winds’ - the Hawa Mahal. Part of the celebrated Golden Triangle tourist trail, the city was added to UNESCO World Heritage Sites in summer 2019 - a status already enjoyed by the aforementioned Amber Fort and Jantar Mantar observatory.
Traveler's tips
If you are looking to save a buck while traveling in Jaipur, the best way to do so is by low-floor buses. Also, you can explore the old city on rickshaws and autos. Make it a point to hire the services of a licensed tour guide to learn more about the various attractions in the city, such as Amer Palace and Hawa Mahal. While extremely hot during the day, the city gets colder at night so remember to carry something to cover up.
Amber Fort, Jal Mahal, Hawa Mahal Full-Day Private Jaipur Tour
Duration: 9 hours
13. Ladakh (from USD 800.0)
The Ladakh region is famed for its stunning mountain landscape amid the Himalayas and sits in the very north of the country on the border with Tibet, with which it shares common cultural roots. Its located close to important trade routes like Silk Road and has made it an important cultural centre since antiquity, and it is home to a number of beautiful Buddhist monasteries, including Likir, Phyang and Namgyal Tsemo. The region is also home to the aforementioned town of Leh, and the likes of the Leh Palace and Shanti Stupa, should you wish to visit during a wider tour of the area.
Private 6-Day Tour with Accommodation and Breakfast, Ladakh
Duration: 6 days
14. Mumbai (from USD 60.0)
The biggest city in India, Mumbai is home to a dizzying array of sites. These range from the iconic triumphal waterfront arch of the Gateway to India, to the ancient temples in the caves of Elephanta Island. Other must-see destinations include Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus railway station, which fused the Gothic Revival style that was so in vogue in Britain in the 19th century with the traditional Mughal architecture of the area. Those travellers seeking more sedate pleasure may wish to hit the city’s popular Cahupati Beach. While culture vultures looking to explore the city may enjoy picking up souvenirs in the likes of Zaveri Bazaar or the Mangaldas Market. And these suggestions just scratch the surface of what you may discover.
All inclusive Mumbai Shore Excursion from Mumbai port
Duration: 5 hours
15. Kolkata (from USD 9.0)
Once India’s capital city under the years of the British Raj, Kolkata - or Calcutta to give it its former name - is noted for some of its colonial architecture which includes St. Paul’s Cathedral and Victoria Memorial. But to focus on its colonial past would be to do Kolkata a disservice. Other notable landmarks include the likes of Daksineswar Kali Temple, the 19th-century Kalighat Kali temple, and the modern design of Science City Kolkata, with its popular interactive exhibits. The city is also known as the cultural or literary capital of the country, and in the form of the Indian Museum, is home to a host of rare antiques, artwork and fossils. The city also hosts a range of popular festivals.
Street Shopping Walking Tour in Kolkata
Duration: 4hrsDuration
16. Goa (from USD 145.0)
If you’re a beach lover then the state of Goa will almost certainly be on your ‘to do’ list. Famed for its white sands it attracts a vast array of tourists every year, eager to enjoy the warm waters of the Arabian Sea as well as the nightlife. It is also known for its coastal wildlife and mangrove ecosystems, and the jungle and waterfalls inland. Its long history also includes a strong Portuguese colonial influence - fuelled by the area’s spice agriculture - and this past can be seen in some of the architecture, be it the Se Cathedral of Old Goa and the Basilica of Bom Jesus, or the Latin Quarter of the state’s capital Panaji.
Full Day Private Guided Goa Tour
Duration: 8.0 hour
17. Manali (from USD 35.0)
One for fans of the great outdoors, this high-altitude resort town is located in the Himalayan landscape of Himachal Pradesh and is famed for its trekking trails and backpacking opportunities. Its location on the Beas River also makes it a popular destination for those seeking to head on to the likes of Parvati and Solang valleys, as well as the slopes of Pir Panjal mountains, which between them offer an array of walking, water rafting and skiing opportunities. Manali also has a rich array of spiritual sites, from the woodland setting of Hadimba Temple to Vashisht Temple and its hot springs, among others.
Private 6 Hrs Shimla City Tour
Duration: 5 to 6 hours
18. Coorg (from USD 7.8)
Also known by its modern name of Kodagu, Coorg in south-west India is a treat for fans of nature, with the well-known waterfalls of Abbey Falls of Madikeri (complete with viewing bridge) and the Iruppu Waterfalls of Brahmagiri among this district’s charms. The area is also home to the Dubare Elephant Camp, the Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary and the Nagarahole National Park, with their mix of Asian elephants, wild birds and big cats. The area is also home to a number of notable Tibetan Buddhist temples as well as historic sites like Madikeri Fort and Raja’s Seat/Tomb, where Kodava kings were buried.
Coorg Coffee Plantation Tour - Klook
Duration: 3hrsDuration
19. Jodhpur (from USD 55.0)
Set amid the Thar Desert in Rajasthan, Jodhpur is home to some truly spectacular historic sites. A particular highlight is Mehrangarh Fort. Dating back more than 550 years it towers above the surrounding landscape and has provided inspiration for numerous Hollywood and Bollywood productions. Other spots include Umaid Bhawan Palace - one of the largest private residences in the world - the ornate clock tower of Ghanta Ghar and the huge 19th-century cenotaph of Jaswant Thada. The centuries-old reservoir of Balsamand Lake is one of the landscape attractions, while the area’s popular markets feature food and traditional goods.
Jodhpur Private Full-Day City Tour and Camel Safari
Duration: 10 hours
20. Kashmir (from USD 524.0)
Despite political sensitivities surrounding the disputed wider Kashmir region, the Kashmir Valley itself is a traditional tourist hot-spot thanks to its lush setting and surrounding Himalayan mountains. Dal Lake has earned itself a reputation as the ‘jewel in the crown’ of the region - its houseboats, idyllic backdrop and traditional floating gardens of lotus flowers inspiring comparisons with paradise. Elsewhere in the wider area, the town and hill station of Gulmarg is a popular ski resort, while other attractions include Sonamarg and Thajiwas Glacier. The region is also home to a number of religious sites, such as Hazratbal Shrine, Chemrey Monastery and Raghunath Temple.
Private 06 Nights tour of Paradise of Earth Kashmir
Duration: 7 days
21. Shillong and Cherrapunjee (from USD 212.0)
Natural charms aplenty await visitors to this corner of Meghalaya in the north-east of the country. Waterfalls like the one at Elephant Falls and lakes like Ward’s Lake - with its mix of walking trails - are just some of the landscape attractions you’ll discover in the area around Shillong. While those who venture to Cherrapunjee (Cherrapunji) will be able to marvel at the living root bridges and illuminated stalagmites of Mawsmai Cave. The wider area also includes a number of cultural attractions, such as the celebration of indigenous cultures at Don Bosco Museum.
2 Days Tour : Shillong and Cherrapunjee
Duration: 2 days
22. Spiti Valley (from USD 440.0)
Nestled amid the high Himalayas, Spiti Valley literally translates to ‘middle land’ in reference to its location separating the rest of India from Tibet. The state of Himachal Pradesh and its cold desert climate make it one of the least populated parts of the entire country - but one with some truly breathtaking mountain landscapes. The area is also a famed Buddhist centre, and is home to one of the world’s oldest monasteries in the form of the Tabo Chos-Khor Monastery which dates back to the twilight years of the 10th century. The striking Kye Gompa - or Key Monastery - with its visually-arresting hilltop setting, is another noted landmark - as are the likes of Chanda Tal Lake and Tabo Caves, among others.
Spiti Valley Circuit Group Tour 8 Night-9 Day
Duration: 9 days
23. Pondicherry (from USD 126.0)
Located in the south of India, Pondicherry - or Puducherry - is a former French colonial settlement. That Francophile legacy can still be seen today, in the tree-lined avenues and mustard villas of the city’s French Quarter. It is also home to a number of colourful and visually-attractive spiritual centres. These include the important Sri Aurobindo Ashram, the unique gold-plated dome of Matrimandir yoga temple, Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Temple, and the red and white colours of the gothic church, Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. The area is also a popular coastal destination, with a number of popular beaches.
Private Tour: Pondicherry Day Trip from Chennai
Duration: 7 to 8 hours
24. Leh (from USD 1.0)
Located within the Ladakh region (more on that a little later), Leh sits amid the mountainous Himalayan landscape of the far north of India. It is home to a number of notable landmarks which make the very most of the stunning landscape, including the impressive Leh Palace - a 9-storey edifice that is open to the public and enjoys jaw-dropping views from its elevated rooftop location. Other attractions include the picturesque Namgyal Tsemo Gompa - a 15th century monastery - and the white-domed Shanti Stupa Buddhist site. Not only that but ultra-fit runners may wish to pit themselves against the annual Ladakh Marathon. This self-styled “highest marathon in the world” throws in the added challenge of a lengthy run at high altitude.
Himalayan Ladhak 6-Day Tour from Leh: Monasteries, Lakes, Yaks
Duration: 6 days
25. Varanasi (from USD 436.0)
India’s ‘cultural capital’, Varanasi is a major spiritual hub on the Ganges which draws pilgrims of multiple faiths - all eager to bathe in its sacred waters at the iconic Dashashwamedh Ghat or to carry out traditional cremations at Manikarnika Ghat. Little wonder then that the city’s streets are home to more than 2000 temples and spiritual centres, including the famed Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple - one of Hinduism’s most famous temples. Other notable landmarks include the 18th-century edifice of Ramnagar Fort, and Jantar Mantar observatory (not to be confused with Jaipur’s in the previous entry). Head outside the city and you’ll also come across the famed Dhamekh Stupa, where Buddha’s first sermon was delivered.
2 Days Varanasi Tour From Delhi With Flight and Hotel
Duration: 2 days
26. Pamban Island (from USD 144.0)
This low-level island is home to a number of temples - including the impressive towers of Ramanathaswamy Temple, which is located in the main town and pilgrimage centre of Rameswaram and is one of the most sacred locations in Hinduism. The small island, which is only 4.3 miles (7 kilometres) across at its widest point (and extends across an area of 16,500 acres/6677.3 hectares) is also home to a number of white sands and palm-lined beaches, such as Dhanushkodi Beach. Other noted landmarks include the Pamban Bridge, which connects the island to the mainland and, at more than 2 kilometres (1.25 miles) long, was the longest railway sea bridge in India for almost 100 years.
Rameswaram and Pamban Island Private Tour from Madurai
Duration: 8 hours
27. Hyderabad (from USD 118.0)
Dubbed the City of Pearls, owing to its past as a centre within the pearl industry, these days this city has reinvented itself as a major biology and technology centre. But there’s still much of Hyderabad’s history as a diamond and pearl trading hub to be seen - including the Golconda Fort. Other notable landmarks including the 16th-century mosque, Charminar, with its striking arches and minarets, while the restored palace complex of Chowmahalla, and the waters of Hussain Shagar lake (complete with Buddha statue) are other top attractions. And art fans will likely want to make a beeline for the Salar Jung Museum, which is home to a collection of more than one million objects.
Private Hyderabad city tour with Evening Boat Ride
Duration: 9 to 10 hours
28. Darjeeling (from USD 756.0)
Set amid the Himalayan foothills, Darjeeling is another area of India famed around the world for its extensive tea plantations. Despite some of the instabilities in the Bengal area lately, its natural beauty and a number of enticing attractions have seen the increase in footfall. Those who love the romance of rail travel will definitely want to check out the ‘toy train’, an affectionate nickname for the narrow-gauge Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, which winds its way for 55 miles (88 kilometres) and has been dubbed a UNESCO World Heritage site. Other attractions include the endangered species of the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, as well as spiritual landmarks like Ghum Monastery.
3 Nights 4 Days at Queen of Hills Darjeeling
Duration: 4 days
29. Andaman Islands (from USD 615.0)
A paradise-like setting, the Andaman Islands sit in the Bay of Bengal, well to the east of the Indian mainland, and are a popular location among tourists seeking tropical beaches with white sands, palm-lined shores and azure seas. Those waters are regarded as being among some of the best in the world for scuba diving and snorkelling, and are home to close to 1000 different species. Beaches such as Radhanagar Beach also have a glowing reputation. Other attractions include the Cellular Jail, which served to incarcerate political prisoners during the years of British rule but today acts as a national memorial monument.
Andaman Islands 4-Night Tour with Havelock, Neil, Ross Islands
Duration: 5 days
30. Hampi (from USD 433.0)
Home to stunning relics of the Vijayanagar Empire, the town of Hampi has won legions of fans for its impressive ruins. And by impressive, I do mean impressive. This UNESCO World Heritage Site features more than 1600 remains spread across an area of some 16 square miles (41.4 square kilometres). Once the capital of Vijayanagar Empire, its ruins include everything from forts to royal complexes and religious structures. Speaking of which, the town is still a religious centre, and is home to the likes of Virupaksha Temple - an intact 14th-century structure that continues to be a major place of pilgrimage and boasts a stunning monumental entrance tower - or Gopuram - that will delight photographers.
Two days trip to Hampi from Bengaluru
India: a land of possibilities
A country the size of India truly has something for everyone. Be it the majestic rugged terrain of the Himalayas, the cultural and architectural magnificence of world-famous sites like Taj Mahal, or stunning beaches on the Bay of Bengal - whatever travel experience you crave for, you’ll likely find it in this memorable land.
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