India is a country that rewrites the rules of diversity, offering a whole lot of experiences that will leave you hooked. From the majestic Himalayas to the serene backwaters of Kerala, and from the metro cities to the rustic villages, India’s landscapes and cultures are as different as they are cool. The country gets over 20 million international tourists every year, drawn by its history, architecture and hospitality. India has 43 UNESCO World Heritage Sites including the Taj Mahal and the forts of Jaipur. For adventure seekers, spiritual seekers and foodies, India has experiences that will give you memories to last a lifetime. Now let’s get into the details of the best tourist destinations in India.
List of 11 Top Tourist Destinations to Must-Visit in India
Let’s get into the detailed information of all the most popular tourist destinations in India. They all are unique on their own and will give you memories for life:
Agra
Agra is all about the Taj Mahal, one of the 7 Wonders of the World. This white marble tomb built by Emperor Shah Jahan for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal is a monument of love and architecture. But Agra has more to it. The Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has the red sandstone walls and intricate interiors to tell the story of Mughal grandeur. Fatehpur Sikri, the abandoned capital, has an incredible mix of architectural styles. You can shop in the bustling bazaars for handcrafted marble souvenirs and relish Mughlai cuisine. A sunrise visit of the Taj Mahal with Agra one day tour is a must for every traveller to see its beauty at dawn.
- Best time: October to March
- Places to see: Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri, Mehtab Bagh, Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah, Akbar’s Tomb in Sikandra, Mariam’s Tomb, Jama Masjid, Anguri Bagh
- Things to do: See Mughal architecture, shop for marble souvenirs, watch Kalakriti show, visit Taj Mahal at sunrise or sunset, stroll in Mehtab Bagh, relish Mughlai cuisine, shop for leather goods in local bazaars, take a heritage walk in Fatehpur Sikri.
- Nearest railway station: Agra Cantt Railway Station
- Nearest airport: Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay Airport
Jaipur
Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan is a city of grandeur and culture. Known as the Pink City due to its pink buildings, Jaipur has Amber Fort, a hill top fort with a breathtaking view of Aravalli Hills. City Palace has a mix of Rajput and Mughal architecture, Hawa Mahal or Palace of Winds is a must see with its intricate facade. Jaipur’s bazaars are a treasure trove of gemstones, block printed textiles and blue pottery. You can also have a royal dining experience with local cuisine. With its rich culture and royal history, the heritage tour of Jaipur is a journey you will never forget.
- Best time: October to March
- Places to visit: City Palace, Amber Fort, Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mantar, Nahargarh Fort, Jal Mahal, Albert Hall Museum, Galtaji Temple (Monkey Temple), Birla Mandir
- Things to do: Shop at Johari Bazaar, watch Amber Fort’s light and sound show, watch folk dance show, take an elephant ride at Amber Fort, have Rajasthani cuisine at Chokhi Dhani, visit Jaipur Wax Museum.
- Nearest railway station: Jaipur Junction
- Nearest airport: Jaipur International Airport
Kerala
Kerala is a place where nature and culture go hand in hand. Alleppey backwaters and houseboat cruises are a unique experience where you glide through calm waterways surrounded by greenery. Munnar, a hill station, is famous for its tea plantations and cool climate. Wildlife lovers can explore Periyar National Park where you can see elephants and tigers. The cultural richness of Kerala is visible in Kathakali performances and temple festivals. Ayurveda Kerala’s ancient healing system attracts visitors from all over the world. Whether you relax on Kovalam Beach or eat appam and curry the state’s signature dishes Kerala will leave you with memories to cherish.
- Best time to visit: September to March
- Places to visit: Alleppey Backwaters, Munnar Tea Gardens, Periyar National Park, Kochi Fort, Varkala Beach, Kovalam Beach, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Thekkady, Athirapally Waterfalls
- Things to do: Houseboat stay in Alleppey, explore tea plantations, jeep safari in Wayanad, visit traditional spice markets, Ayurvedic treatments, Kathakali performances, Varkala Beach cliff walk, Thrissur Pooram festival, taste Kerala seafood.
- Nearest railway station: Ernakulam Junction (Kochi)
- Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport
Goa
Goa is the beach capital of India which is a mix of chill, adventure and culture. From the happening beaches of Baga and Calangute to the quiet stretches of Palolem in South Goa. Water sports enthusiasts can try parasailing, jet skiing and scuba diving. Goa’s Portuguese legacy is visible in its churches like the Basilica of Bom Jesus and colonial architecture. The nightlife with beach parties and music festivals attracts tourists from all over the world. Beyond the beaches, spice plantations and traditional Goan markets will give you a glimpse into the culture. Don’t miss the seafood – especially the fish curry and prawn Balchao. With overall experience, goa is among the most popular tourist destinations in India.
- Best time: November to February
- Places to visit: Baga Beach, Calangute Beach, Basilica of Bom Jesus, Aguada Fort, Palolem Beach, Dudhsagar Waterfalls, Chapora Fort, Anjuna Flea Market, Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
- Things to do: Chill on the beaches, try parasailing and jet skiing, visit spice plantations, visit Old Goa churches, attend beach parties, shop at flea markets, taste Goan seafood, trek to Dudhsagar Falls, and go for dolphin spotting.
- Nearest railway station: Madgaon Railway Station
- Nearest airport: Goa International Airport (Dabolim Airport)
Varanasi
Famously known as one of the world’s oldest cities and also a major spiritual centre for the Hindus. Situated on the banks of the holy Ganges River, the city is famous for its ghats where daily rituals, prayers and ceremonies take place. Dashashwamedh Ghat is the most popular one and Ganga Aarti is a must-see every evening. Kashi Vishwanath Temple is a must-visit pilgrimage site and Sarnath where Buddha delivered his first sermon is just nearby. The narrow lanes are filled with shops selling Banarasi silk sarees and local sweets. A sunrise boat ride on the Ganges is a must to experience the spiritual energy of this eternal city.
- Best time: November to February
- Places to visit: Dashashwamedh Ghat, Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Sarnath, Assi Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, Ramnagar Fort, Bharat Mata Temple, Tulsi Manas Temple, Alamgir Mosque
- Things to do: Attend Ganga Aarti, sunrise boat ride, explore Sarnath’s Buddhist heritage, buy Banarasi silk sarees, taste local sweets, visit ancient temples, learn about Hindu rituals, join yoga sessions and cultural performances.
- Nearest railway station: Varanasi Junction
- Nearest airport: Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport
Udaipur
Udaipur, the City of Lakes, is one of the most beautiful places in India. With shimmering lakes, palaces and a romantic vibe it’s a perfect escape for travellers. The City Palace is a magnificent piece of architecture and offers views of Lake Pichola. The lake is bustling with activity and boat rides will give you glimpses of the palaces and ghats around. Udaipur’s art scene is alive with miniature paintings and traditional crafts. Sajjangarh Palace also known as Monsoon Palace is a must-see for sunset. And the warmth of the boutique hotels and resorts makes it one of the perfect tourist destinations in India for couples and culture lovers.
- Best time: September to March
- Places to see: City Palace, Lake Pichola, Jag Mandir, Sajjangarh Palace, Fateh Sagar Lake, Jagdish Temple, Saheliyon Ki Bari, Vintage Car Museum, Bagore Ki Haveli
- Things to do: Boat rides, explore local markets for crafts, watch cultural performances at Bagore Ki Haveli, Light and sound show at City Palace, Sunset at Sajjangarh Palace, Dine by the lake, Shilpgram for handicrafts, Heritage walk in the old city.
- Nearest railway station: Udaipur City Railway Station
- Nearest airport: Maharana Pratap Airport
Rishikesh
Rishikesh is a mix of spirituality and adventure, situated in the lap of Himalayas. It is globally known as the yoga capital of the world and attracts spiritual seekers to its ashrams and yoga retreats. The famous Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula suspension bridges are the landmarks that offer a beautiful view of the Ganges River. Adventure seekers come here for white water rafting, trekking and camping. Rishikesh is also the gateway to Char Dham Yatra so it’s a must visit for religious travelers. You can attend an evening Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat or have a peaceful retreat in nature. Its peaceful atmosphere along with adventure activities makes it a great experience for everyone.
- Best time to visit: Feb to May and Oct to Nov
- Places to visit: Laxman Jhula, Ram Jhula, Triveni Ghat, Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, Beatles Ashram, Rajaji National Park, Tera Manzil Temple, Swarg Ashram, Kunjapuri Devi Temple
- Things to do: Attend yoga retreats, white water rafting, nature trek, ashram hopping, Ganga Aarti, meditation by the river, visit Rajaji National Park for wildlife safaris, camping by the river.
- Nearest railway station: Haridwar Railway Station
- Nearest airport: Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun)
Leh-Ladakh
Leh-Ladakh in northern India is a paradise for adventure and nature lovers. With dramatic landscapes it has everything from mountains to monasteries. Pangong Lake with its ever changing colours and Nubra Valley with its sand dunes and Bactrian camels are must visit places. Hemis and Thiksey monasteries give you a glimpse into Tibetan Buddhism and are perfect for those seeking peace and spirituality. Adventure seekers can trek, mountain bike and river raft in the Zanskar region. The region’s festivals and warm local hospitality is an added bonus. Leh-Ladakh Tour is an otherworldly experience and a bucket list destination for many international tourists.
- Best time: May to September
Places to visit: Pangong Lake, Nubra Valley, Hemis Monastery, Thiksey Monastery, Khardung La Pass, Magnetic Hill, Zanskar Valley, Shanti Stupa, Tso Moriri Lake - Things to do: Visit monasteries, trek in Zanskar Valley, river rafting in Indus River, mountain biking on Khardung La, camel safari in Nubra Valley, photograph lakes, Ladakhi festivals, traditional markets in Leh.
- Nearest railway station: Jammu Tawi Railway Station (additional travel required)
- Nearest airport: Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport
Bodhgaya
Bodhgaya is the most sacred place for Buddhists around the world also a UNESCO World Heritage site. This is where Prince Siddhartha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree and became Gautama Buddha. The Mahabodhi Temple with its beautiful architecture and peaceful atmosphere is the heart of this holy place. The temple complex has a sapling of the original Bodhi Tree. Monasteries and temples from different Buddhist countries like Thailand, Japan and Bhutan surround Bodhgaya, so you get to experience cultural diversity. Pilgrims and tourists come to meditate, learn about Buddhist philosophy or just to soak in the peace of this ancient town. For all these reasons Bodh Gaya remains in the list of best tourist destinations in India.
- Best time: October to March
- Places to visit: Mahabodhi Temple, Bodhi Tree, Thai Monastery, Great Buddha Statue, Tibetan Monastery, Sujata Kuti, Dungeshwari Cave Temples, Indosan Nippon Japanese Temple, Archaeological Museum
- Things to do: Attend prayer ceremonies, visit international monasteries, learn Buddhist chants, visit Sujata Village for local history, try vegetarian Buddhist cuisine, shop for handicrafts and visit Barabar Caves.
- Nearest railway station: Gaya Junction
- Nearest airport: Gaya Airport
Ayodhya
Ayodhya is a city of great mythology in Hinduism, the birthplace of Lord Rama. It’s one of the seven most sacred cities (Sapta Puri) in Hinduism. The Ram Janmabhoomi Temple is the heart of the city and a symbol of faith and devotion. On the Ayodhya tour, you will be visiting countless ghats, temples and shrines of various deities. The Saryu River flowing alongside the city is important for religious rituals and scenic beauty. Hanuman Garhi and Kanak Bhavan are other notable places. With its rich cultural heritage and spiritual vibe Ayodhya is a must-visit for anyone interested in India’s mythological history.
- Best time: October to March
- Places to visit: Ram Janmabhoomi Temple, Hanuman Garhi, Kanak Bhavan, Treta Ke Thakur, Saryu Ghat, Nageshwarnath Temple, Dashrath Mahal, Guptar Ghat, Mani Parvat
- Things to do: Participate in religious rituals by the Saryu River, visit temples of Ayodhya, see evening Aarti at Ram Ki Paidi, learn about Hindu mythology, shop for religious items, visit local markets, try North Indian sweets, take a boat ride in Saryu River.
- Nearest railway station: Ayodhya Junction
- Nearest Airport: Maharshi Valmiki International Airport
Himachal Pradesh
Himachal Pradesh is a place where nature, adventure and culture come together. Located in the Himalayas it has beautiful hill stations like Shimla, Manali and Dharamshala. Known for its snow-clad mountains, green valleys and gushing rivers Himachal attracts adventure seekers, honeymooners and nature lovers. You can trek in Kasol, paraglide in Bir Billing or explore colonial architecture in Shimla. For a spiritual experience visit the Dalai Lama’s residence in McLeod Ganj. Himachal is also famous for its apple orchards, Tibetan monasteries and local festivals. The state’s landscapes and variety of activities make it one of the popular year round tourist destinations in India especially for international tourists.
- Best time: March to June (summer), December to February (snow)
- Places to visit: Shimla, Manali, Dalhousie, Dharamshala, Kasol, Spiti Valley, Kullu, McLeod Ganj, Kinnaur
- Things to do: Trek to Triund or Hampta Pass, visit Tibetan monasteries, paragliding in Manali and Bir Billing, visit apple orchards, ski in Solang Valley, camp in Spiti Valley, take heritage toy train in Shimla, attend Kullu Dussehra and try Himachali cuisine.
- Nearest railway station: Kalka Railway Station (for Shimla), Pathankot Railway Station (for Dharamshala)
- Nearest airports: Bhuntar, Kangra, and Jubbarhatti airports.
Final Thoughts
India is a treasure trove of experiences, something for every kind of traveller. Whether you like the architectural wonders like the Taj Mahal, the spiritual vibes of Varanasi or the adventure of Himachal Pradesh, India never fails to impress. From cities to retreats, India has something for every kind of mood. Its history, culture and food will leave you with memories for life. With a little planning and the right information your trip to India will be smooth and enriching. As you travel to these places you will not just see the beauty of India but also its warmth and that will make your trip truly unforgettable.