When it comes to India, it’s always difficult to know where to begin and what to include. It is impossible to cover the entire diversity of India in a single visit, no matter how much time you have. Although some places do provide a glimpse into the cultural diversity and have thus become tourist favorites. Take a look at these top 20 popular travel destinations in India to get a sense of the country’s diverse charm and essence.
1. Ladakh
Ladakh is one of India’s must-see destinations, with high mountain passes, barren mountains, alpine lakes and meadows, enchanting valleys, and ancient colorful Buddhist monasteries. It’s perfect for adventurers and nature lovers alike. Ladakh is unlike any other Indian destination. In India’s largest national park, you can see some of the world’s highest mountain passes as well as exotic wildlife species. This must-see Indian destination is ideal for adventure activities such as motorbiking and mountain biking, camping, river rafting, trekking, and peak climbing.
Image Source: Tanay Kibe (Flickr)
2. Delhi
The capital city of India is one of the popular travel destinations in India. Delhi is a city rich in history and monuments, teeming with bazaars and mouthwatering street food, high-end malls, and luxury hotels and restaurants. So, whether you’re looking for a heritage walk, a shopping experience, kid-friendly activities, photo opportunities, or even seeking God’s blessings, Delhi will not disappoint.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
3. Varanasi
Varanasi is the country’s spiritual capital. Varanasi is the place to visit if you have a strange image of India in your head. Varanasi is one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities. The Ganges River plays a significant role in instilling spirituality in the region. The alleys and streets of the area are densely packed with temples of various types. Varanasi is the center of religious enchantment. Along the Ganges ghats, you can see Aghori sadhus smearing ashes on their bodies and pandits teaching young minds. This is the city to see everything, from the reality of religion to the purity of death.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
4. Agra
Agra is the highest point. It is one of the most popular travel destinations in India because it is home to the Taj Mahal, the world’s most beautiful monument. This white is considered one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Fatehpur Sikri, Agra Fort, Akbar’s tomb, Ram Bagh, and Sikandra Fort are all located in Agra city. The Taj Mahal’s sunset and sunrise views are must-sees. Learn more about Agra so that you can enjoy its sights and sounds.
5. Jaisalmer
Those looking for an Arabian Nights-style vacation should visit Jaisalmer. The city of Jaisalmer may be small and surrounded by the famous Thar Desert, but the surrounding countryside is breathtaking and rich in culture. The land’s sandy plains serve as a reminder of India’s bygone luxury era. This city is ideal for desert-themed activities such as camel safaris, camping, belly dancing, fire dancing, barbeque, puppet shows, moon-lit romantic desert dinners, and so on. The massive Golden Fort of Jaisalmer, which still stands as an emblem of royal rule in the country, is located near this mystical desert region.
Source: Ninara (Flickr)
6. Pondicherry
Pondicherry (also known as Puducherry or Pondy) was a heavily French-influenced city in Tamil Nadu that was under French rule until 1954. From the lifestyle shops and restaurants that sell French-inspired fare and ware to the people who still speak the European language, the remnants of French colonialism are still plain to see. Pondy is known for its brightly painted houses, large boulevards, French road signs, colonial buildings, and massive gothic churches, but its unique French cuisine is a breath of fresh air if you’ve been in India for a long time. Consider steaks and a lot of beer.
Source: Praveen (Flickr)
7. Goa
Goa is where all the fun is in India, with its gorgeous beaches, stellar nightlife, delectable seafood, and world-heritage-listed monuments. Despite the fact that Goa’s beaches are the main tourist draw, there are many hidden gems to be discovered. With trendy bars, beach shacks, elegant cafes, and numerous clubs and discotheques, Goa has one of the best nightlife scenes in India. South Goa has many options for those seeking a luxurious stay.
Image Source: Pavel Volkov (Flickr)
8. Dharamshala
Dharamshala is best known as the home of Tibet’s spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama. In addition to its natural beauty, this hill station in North India is known for its quaint monasteries, Tibetan markets, old bungalows, and churches. They provide an introduction to Tibetan culture and cuisine. Dharamshala is one of the popular travel destinations in India for people of all ages from all over the world.
Image Source: Pixahive
9. Kullu – Manali
With lush greenery, pristine streams, flower-filled meadows, and a pleasant climate, the twin towns of Kullu and Manali in Himachal Pradesh are among the most visited and popular travel destinations in India. These towns, which are about 40 kilometers apart, have waterfalls, hiking trails, apple orchards, religious sites, quaint villages, museums, and hip cafes. While couples visit Kullu and Manali, adventure seekers who want to go trekking, paragliding, camping, river rafting, and other activities also visit.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
10. Jaipur
Jaipur is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a vibrant, flamboyant city with a rich history. The city’s regal past is visible in the form of palaces, forts, and monuments, some of which are still home to the Royal family. There are also many beautiful gardens and lakes in Jaipur. The city balances its heritage with all the conveniences of an urban metropolis by allowing camels and buses to share the same space.
Image Source: Joao Eduardo Figueiredo (Flickr)
11. Haridwar-Rishikesh
When it comes to religious destinations in North India, Haridwar and Rishikesh are unavoidable. Haridwar and Rishikesh, both designated as national heritage cities, exude a spiritual aura that attracts soul seekers and pilgrims from all over the world. The Beatles even paid a visit to Rishikesh in the 1960s! On the one hand, the Ganges is revered, but its white rapids entice thrill-seekers, making it one of the popular travel destinations in India. Both towns have a vegetarian food culture and are known for their delicious street food spreads. Rishikesh is also the starting point for the Char Dham Yatra.
Image Source: Siddharth Nagi (Flickr)
12. Amritsar
Amritsar is both a spiritual and architectural gem. The Golden Temple, also known as Sri Harmandir Sahib, is the holiest shrine for Sikhs. Bullet marks can still be seen on the walls of Jallianwala Bagh, a poignant reminder of India’s freedom struggle. Another reason to visit Amritsar is to witness the Change of Guard ceremony, which is held every evening by Indian and Pakistani army soldiers at the Wagah-Attari border.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
13. Mussoorie
The tree-covered hills and valleys of Dehradun and Mussoorie have attracted families and couples since the 1800s. Because of its stunning views of Dehradun on one side and snow-capped Himalayan peaks on the other, Mussoorie was dubbed “The Queen of Hill Stations” by the British. Hikers like to visit these hills, which are only 33 kilometers apart. Dehradun and Mussoorie, in addition to their natural beauty, are home to a number of British-era institutions, churches, and summer palaces.
Image Source: Curious Eagle (Flickr)
14. Alleppey
Alleppey in Kerala is known for its beautiful backwaters, beaches, temples, and traditional boat races, among other things. In this popular tourist destination, ayurvedic spas and wellness centers are also well-known. Winter is the best time to visit and explore Alleppey (October to February). The city’s temperature ranges from 18 to 33 degrees Celsius. As a result, the sky is clear, and visitors are encouraged to explore the city and its attractions by a pleasant breeze. The waterways are open at this time of year, allowing houseboat rides on Alleppey’s backwaters. Due to the pleasant weather, visitors can take a day cruise or an overnight journey to suit their needs.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
15. Udaipur
Stay closer to the Aravalli hill regions, where you can go horseback riding, camping, and other breathtaking activities. Your eyes will be glued to the brim of serenity as the entire city of Lake Geneva transforms into a beautiful scrapbook. There are numerous tourist attractions such as Lake Pichola, Taj Lake Palace, Jag Mandir, City Palace, and others. Boating on Lake Pichola is a must-do activity.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
16. Rann of Kutch
The Rann Utsav, which takes place every year in Kutch, Gujarat, is a must-see for anyone visiting India. The grand Rann Utsav is a globally recognized event, and Kutch is one of the world’s largest salt deserts. You can watch traditional dance, eat local cuisine, and participate in other sightseeing activities if you attend this event.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
17. Andaman and Nicobar Islands
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands, a part of India’s archipelago, are popular travel destinations in India for a getaway to the pristine beaches and one of the best places to visit in February in India. White sand beaches, swaying palm trees, and salty breezes are all to be expected. Plan a trip with your loved ones to this tropical paradise and soak up the atmosphere.
Source: Flickr
18. Konark – Puri
Konark
Tourists, historians, scholars, and pilgrims from all over the world flock to Konark’s Black Pagoda, also known as the majestic sun temple. The temple is designed to resemble the chariot of the Sun God, with seven spirited horses pulling it and twelve pairs of exquisitely decorated wheels at its base. Another major attraction in Konark is the Chandrabhaga Sea beach, which is located next to the temple.
Image Source: Laksman Rawat (Flickr)
Puri
Puri is a beach city with the Jagannath temple as its most famous attraction, as well as other attractions such as Chilka Lake and Konark Sun Temple. It is one of Hinduism’s four Char-Dham pilgrimage sites. The famous Konark Dance Festival, which takes place from February 21st to February 23rd next year and makes Konark one of the popular travel destinations in India, is a festival worth visiting this beach town for. With the grand Sun Temple as a backdrop, this is one of the most well-known arts platforms.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
19. Nainital
Nainital is a charming hill station in Uttarakhand, situated at the foothills of the Kumaon ranges. It is the most visited hill station in North India, located near Dehradun and Delhi. Nainital is a great weekend escape from Delhi and the surrounding areas. Nainital is sure to leave an impression on you, whether you want to go boating on the beautiful Naini Lake, eat some Garhwali and Kumaoni delicacies, shop for souvenirs, or take a ropeway ride to Snow View Point to take in the Himalayan beauty.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
20. Rameshwaram
Rameshwaram is a peaceful and unspoiled town in Tamil Nadu that is part of the enchanting Pamban Island. The famous Pamban channel connects the town to the rest of the country. Rameshwaram is 1,403 kilometers away from Mannar Island in Sri Lanka. Rameshwaram is regarded as one of Hinduism’s holiest sites and is a must-see on the Char Dham Yatra or holy pilgrimage. Many places in Rameshwaram hold religious significance for Hindus. The Sri Ramanathaswamy Temple, the twenty-four temple tanks or tirthas, and the Kothandaramar are among them.
Source: Flickr
The importance of other popular travel destinations in India in the tourism context is not diminished by listing the best places to visit in India. Make sure you get the best out of each place when you take a trip there!