state wise places to visit in india

Places In Each State In India That You Must Visit

Places in each state that you must visit, here is the list of 29 places in each state in india that you must visit, 1. ziro, arunachal pradesh.

Known For : Tarin Fish Farm Kile Pakho Ziro Music Festival

If you’re in Arunachal or even the North East, Ziro is something you just cannot miss. The ultimate cultural retreat among the very friendly tribes and the awesome locales will stick with you for a very very long time. And they have a number of festivals throughout the year, from music to cultural fiestas, which are a glorious treat for travellers.

Best Time: September - November ; March - May

9 Ziro Attractions

2. Mcleodganj, Himachal Pradesh - Land of His Holiness the Dalai Lama - Little Lhasa

Known For : Triund Bhagsu Falls Bhagsunag Temple

The hilly beauty of Himachal is best enjoyed at this hamlet called Mcleodganj, and the beauty and wilderness around it, just adds to the marvel that the place is. If you want to soak in Himachal in its pristine beauty, head over for a short trek to Triund, which sets off from Mcleodganj, and is the most amazing way to go cloud-gazing!

Best Time: October to June

42 Mcleodganj Attractions

3. Majuli, Assam - World's Largest Fresh Water Island

Known For : Kamalabari Satra Dakhinpat Satra Garmur

Think of water so blue that you lose all inhibitions and lose yourself in the calmness of the placid waters. That’s the feel of Majuli for you. If you’re travelling to Assam, do not miss this river island of the mighty Brahmaputra, and do not miss their fresh fish!

Best Time: October - April

5 Majuli Attractions

4. Bodh Gaya, Bihar - Buddha, Mahabodhi Tree and the land of Nirvana

Known For : Mahabodhi Temple Great Buddha Statue Tibetan Refugee Market

The peace of the Buddhist-dominated town, along with the silence and serenity, make Bodh Gaya our top pick for Bihar! If you ever find yourself in Bihar, do not give Bodh Gaya a miss.

Best Time: October to March

26 Bodh Gaya Attractions

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Manali volvo tour package - excursion to solang valley, sikkim tour package for 7 days - excursion to tsomgo lake, leh ladakh summer holiday package with nubra & pangong stay, darjeeling tour package for family: gangtok & kalimpong, bestseller andaman and nicobar tour package, 5. dantewada, chattisgarh.

Known For : Danteshwari Temple Mama-Bhanjaa Temple Indravati National Park

Chattisgarh, the Mecca of Offbeat tourism, is great when it comes to quiet temples hidden away in deep forests, a population of diverse cultures and tribes and some very offbeat tourist places.

7 Dantewada Attractions

6. Kutch, Gujarat - The White Desert of India

Known For : Rann of Kutch Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary Dholavira

There are few things you’ll ever see that match up to the beauty of the white Rann paired with the setting sun and the wild, colourful beauty of its amazing locals. Not to mention that if you’re on a road trip, you might want not to come back at all! That makes the White Rann of Kutch; our bucket list pick for Gujarat!

Best Time: July to March

20 Kutch Attractions

7. Alleppey, Kerala - Backwaters, Beaches and Lagoons - Venice of the East

Known For : Houseboats in Alleppey Alleppey Backwaters Kuttanad

Unless you’re there, it's highly improbable that you’ll fall in love with Kerala the way you fall asleep – slowly, and then all at once! Although, this is more of the latter. Kerala is called “God’s own country” for a reason, and to find out the reason; you should probably go visit Alleppey.

Best Time: June to March

37 Alleppey Attractions

8. Damdama Lake, Gurgaon

Damdama Lake, a quiet retreat away from the hustle and bustle of the capital, is a must-do from Haryana. Quietly set away in Sohna, this is a great place to run away to if you’re around.

9. Leh Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir - India's Own Moonland

Known For : Pangong Lake Khardung La Magnetic Hill

The crown on India’s head, Kashmir, is a delight for anybody who visits. However, Ladakh is in a class of its own. The beautiful lakes, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri, are a reason to visit! Moreover, oh, if you have the enthusiasm that goes with it, ride to Ladakh! Nothing beats that experience.

Best Time: April - Mid-July

70 Ladakh Attractions

10. Betla National Park, Netarhat, Jharkhand

The only way to enjoy Jharkhand in its entirety is to soak in the nature that still runs thick in its blood. Head over to Betla Forest and say hello to a bunch of adventures and much wilderness – both flora and fauna!

11. Hampi, Karnataka - The abode of bygone ruins, rusty colors and fascinating landscape

Known For : Virupaksha Temple, Hampi Vithala Temple Lotus Palace

The historical ruins of Hampi are the best experience that you’ll probably have in Karnataka. Apart from being one of those places where you can just put on your hiking shoes and walk around for hours, it also is a great place to chill!

31 Hampi Attractions

12. Jaisalmer, Rajasthan - The Golden City

Known For : Jaisalmer Fort Desert Safari in Jaisalmer Gadisar Lake

At the risk of sounding too conformist, a desert camel safari is just too exhilarating an adventure to miss. If you are in Rajasthan, do not risk missing this for the world!

39 Jaisalmer Attractions

13. Sun Temple, Konark, Odisha

Beachside beauty is a lovely architectural marvel in India. Drive away from the Puri beach for a few odd hours and find yourself in the beautifully constructed Sun Temple. Winter days are the best time to visit this haven of quiet!

14. Valley of Flowers, Uttarakhand - Serene valley of Flowers

Known For : Valley of Flowers National Park Nanda Devi National Park Fauna & Flora

Think Uttarakhand, think of the pristine beauty that comes with it. What better way to look at that, than visiting the Valley of Flowers! Between June and September, the valley comes to life with wild blooms and the trek is even more mesmerising.

Best Time: May to October

3 Valley Of Flowers Attractions

15. Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh - The City of Nizams

Known For : Ramoji Film City Hussain Sagar Lake Golconda Fort

Some old world charm and biryani make up the newest entrant to the state list, but that is in no way all that Telangana boasts of. Head over to Hyderabad and indulge in history walks, gape at some fantastic architecture and dig into the best food that you might ever eat!

Best Time: September to March

102 Hyderabad Attractions

16. Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh - The Tiger's Den

Wildlife is the most awesome wealth of central India, and Bandhavgarh is a fantastic place to see it and enjoy it. The big cats make it all the more enticing, right?

17. Goa - Beaches, Sunsets and Crazy Nights

Known For : Calangute Beach Fort Aguada Cruise in Goa

Nothing beats the fun of an all-night party in Goa, and waking up to the roar of the sea and your thoughts to keep you company, right?

197 Goa Attractions

18. Darjeeling, West Bengal - Queen of The Himalayas

Known For : Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Tiger Hill Batasia Loop

And then there’s Darjeeling, the beauty that is cradled in the northern reaches of West Bengal. To know Darjeeling is to love Darjeeling, and this is the perfect place to visit if you find yourself in Bengal!

Best Time: February to March, September to December

30 Darjeeling Attractions

19. North Sikkim, Sikkim

Known For : Gurudongmar Lake Yumthang Valley

While Sikkim has remained on travellers’ fantasies for generations, North Sikkim is just too beautiful to be missed. The Tsomgo Lake, the Gurudongmar lake, the high passes, the snow-capped peaks and all the lovely sunrises, are great additions to add to your “Been there done that” list.

Best Time: April to June, October to December

9 North Sikkim Attractions

20. Tamenglong, Manipur - Manipur's home to exotic flora and fauna

Known For : Barak Waterfall Zeilad Lake Buning meadows

The wild beauty of Manipur isn’t something you’d want to give up the chance to experience! Plus, for non-veggies, there is some GREAT food as well, that is just fire to gunpowder. Virgin, untouched lands, sure are the calling from God!

Best Time: October to Apr

6 Tamenglong Attractions

21. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh - The Spiritual Capital of India

Known For : Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple Dashashwamedh Ghat Ganga Aarti, Varanasi

On Banaras, Mark Twain has written, “Benaras is older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend and looks twice as old as all of them put together”. To understand the essence of Uttar Pradesh in its entirety, you need to set foot in the holy city at least once and seep in the beauty of Kashi. Like its been said, “Kadam rakho Kashi mein, tar jaoge Kashi mein.”

42 Varanasi Attractions

22. Double Decker Living Root Bridge, Cherrapunjee, Meghalaya

Dense forests, clean villages and one of the most impressive natural phenomena ever. Not something you’d want to miss in this life!

23. Lunglei, Mizoram - A simpler paradise

Known For : Khawnglung Wildlife Sanctuary Lunglei Sightseeing

Clouds, hills and an excellent climate all year long make up this fantastic experience that is to be found in Mizoram. Going through a Mizo family album is wondering, “Damn! They spent all their lives in a Holiday.”

2 Lunglei Attractions

24. Bhandardara, Maharashtra

Known For : Umbrella Falls Wilson Dam Kalsubai Peak

And then, there is Maharashtra, with all its silken Sahyadri beauty, with all the lovely waterfalls and mist and clouds and emerald water and peacefulness. Give Bhandardara a go to check off your Maharashtra Travel Bucket List!

7 Bhandardara Attractions

25. Borra caves, Visakhapatnam

While the circuit of Visakhapatnam and Araku is a great road trip journey as well, Borra caves simply cannot be missed. The stalagmite formations in this naturally formed cave are breathtaking, and the wet fragrance that dominates the caves is a beacon from nature itself. Check this off your list to understand the beauty of Andhra!

26. Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu - The land of three seas

Known For : Kanyakumari Beach Vivekananda Rock Memorial Thanumalayan Temple - Sthanumalayan Kovil

The southernmost tip of India is a delightful odyssey of beautiful beaches, colourful sunrises and sunsets, and a haven for beautiful pictures. At the fear of being roasted, the winters are a better time to visit!

Best Time: October to February

28 Kanyakumari Attractions

27. Mokokchung, Nagaland - An urban habitat to Ao Naga

Known For : Longkhum Ungma Village Langpangkong Caves

Nagaland is the beauty that is made up of hills and valleys, waterfalls and passes. The food is glorious, and so are the awesome locals. Mokokchung is a high-altitude town that is your mecca for picturesque peace and quiet for a few days.

7 Mokokchung Attractions

28. Golden Temple, Amritsar

The eternal beauty of India, the abode of sanctity and peace just cannot be missed if you’re ever in Punjab. You can sit at the Sarovar for hours and reflect; you can listen to the Baani at 4 in the morning and feel completely at ease with your being. The Golden Temple is an experience just too amazing to miss.

29. Unakoti, Tripura - Your trek to Indian Mythology

Known For : Unokotiswara Kal Bhairava

Massive rock-cut Shiva and Parvati architecture, cut out of a 30 feet tall rock sculpture, is a marvel you cannot miss. The state is also home to tea estates, which though smaller than those in Darjeeling in size, are still great places to visit.

1 Unakoti Attractions

Every state in India is a marvel in itself. Hope this travel bucket list of each state helped you to discover the unique places in India.

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State Wise Popular Tourist Places in India

India is great land of tourism. India has 35 States, 7 of them is Union Territory. Sea Beach lovers can enjoy at the fantastic golden sunny beaches of Goa , Kerala, Vizag, Digha , Puri etc. If you like some adventure travel Jammu-Kashmir, Dodital, Shivpuri will be your perfect destinations, even those who are love natural scenery for them are Munnar, Nainital and many more.

For that Mark Twain said “India is the only millionaire…the one land that all men desire to see, and having seen once, by even a glimpse, would not give that glimpse for all the shows of all the rest of the globe combined.”

List of  State Wise Popular Tou rist Places in India

Andaman and nicobar islands.

Andaman and Nicobar are very much close to Thailand and Myanmar. The perfect time to visit the Island is between October and May. Here you can find flourishing culture the tribal culture of India. Andaman has its Beach festival, food festival, film festival, monsoon music festival, these attract tourists from all around the world.

The tourists must visit the famous tourist spots namely Neil island, Port Blair, Bartang Island, little Andaman musty popularly termed as tourist place of India . Port Blair is the foremost gateway to Andaman thus all are connected by Air and via sea. Apart from this buses and trains are also available with affordability

Capital City : Port Blair

Places to visit in Andaman and Nicobar :  

• Radhanagar Beach
• Havelock Island
• Cellular Jail
• Barren Island

Andra Pradesh

Andhra Pradesh, a place for ultimate eco-friendly destinations with caves, river and hills are a must to visit for all explorers.  The best time to visit this place is from October to February. Here you can find the mix of royal heritage and Nizami tradition.  This place is mainly known for spiced up hot south Indian food and nevertheless the Biriyani.  Here tourism ministry supports the largest religious spring festival named Pongal.

Captial City : Hyderabad

Places to visit in Andhra Pradesh :

• Birla Mandir
• Ramoji Film City
• Venkateswara Temple
• Golkonda fort

Arunachal Pradesh

Arunachal Pradesh, situated in the north easterly side in India, is known as the land of rising sun.  You can visit this place within October to April. Here you can see 3 types of cultural group named Buddhist, poloism, Hinduism. You must try Thukpa which is the famous food here.  Losar is the famous festival celebrated by Monpa tribe. You must visit these tourist spots in Arunachal Pradesh- Tawang, Roing, Itanagar, Bombdila, Ziro, Bhalukpong, Pasighat, Namdapha national park, Anini, along. Bombdila is the best tourist spot to visit. You can travel here by train. It is only 10 km from Itanagar by bus. If you chose package system it is very much cost effective for you. This is the amazing tourist destination in India.

Capital City : Itangar

Places to visit in Arunachal Pradesh :

• Lohit District

Assam is the queen among the north east provinces and a prime state of tourism in India . Get there at the time of Bihu festival. You will like the environment at that time the most. The best place to visit the state is in March and October. Get to Guwahati and Silchar in the state. You will like the beauty of the two excellent cities. After you visit Kamakhya and get the sight of the fierce Brahmaputra, out there, you will definitely like to visit the place again. Do not forget to get to taste the lovely fishes out there. You can get through the state by landing at Guwahati, either through flight or through train.

Capital City : Guwahati

Best Tourist Attraction of Assam :

• Kaziranga National Park
• Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary
• Kamakhya Temple
• Uma Nanda Temple

Bihar- the cultural rich place of India has a perfect blend of Buddhism and Hinduism. Summers, monsoon and winter season are the perfect time for visiting. You can find here the old heritage culture like folk song. Samachakeva is the famous festival of Bihar shows migration of birds from Himalaya to Mithila. Sattu Paratha, Bihari kebab is the famous food of this place. Bodh Gaya, Mahabodhi temple, Nalanda, Thai monastery, hanuman mandir, Nalanda University ruins, and Golghar. Mahabodhi Temple  is the most famous attraction of Bihar . This is well connected with rest of countries by air and railways services. It is not a high budget trip; you can easily make your trip with your budget .

Capital City : Patna

Best Tourist Attraction of Bihar :

• Mahabodhi Temple
• Vikramshila
• Great Buddha Statue

Chhattisgarh

This place is famous for its tribal dances, waterfalls, architectural marvels and its scenic beauty. Winter season is the best time for traveler to enjoy the natural beauty.  Here you can find those places which   namely Chittrakote waterfalls, Bhoramdeo Temple, Sahid Veer Narayan Sing International Cricket Stadium,  Chhattisgarh City Center Mall, Tirathgarh falls, Kailash and Kutumsar Cave, Maitri Bagh, Barnawapara wildlife sanctuary, MM fun city. If you eagerly waiting to visit this place go from Mumbai that too via flight and bus is best option for you. Chhattisgarh trip costs a bit more than other trips, but it is ideal for honeymoon place.

Captita City : Raipur

Best Tourist Attraction of Chhattisgarh :

• Chittrakote WaterFalls
• Bhoramdeo Temple
• Maikal Hills
• Kanger Vally National Park

Dadra and Nagar Haveli(Union Territory)

This place is situated between Gujarat and Maharashtra. The best time to visit is during winters. The territory island located around the Arabian sea coast. There is so many places to visit , some of them are Hirwavan garden, tribal museum at Silvassa, Vanganga Lake and garden at Dadra, the place is endowed with green forest, Meandering waterfalls, rippling streams, surging mountain and a astounding show of flora and fauna. There are local buses, auto rickshaws, private taxi are accessible for journey. This trip is not very much costly, you can easily afford it.

Main City : Silvassa

Places to visit in Dadra and Nagar Haveli :

• Swaminarayan Temple Dudhani Lake
• Tribal Museum
• Hirwavan garden

Daman and Diu (Union Territory)

This place is  the second smallest place in India, and a single union territory. This is the paradise of peace, and it is isolation with its shores about 12.5 km.  Here you can find the Chronological Churches with the statues of finely engraved, Coconut Groves, and awesome greenery. Along with it you can get here various tasted of sea foods. Now in Daman and Diu you will see the growing of business tourism and it gives the cultural and heritage feeling. Also you can make here lots of adventure and fun. You can get everything you need. The place is well connected with the rest places.

Main City : Daman

Best Tourist Attraction of Daman and Diu :

• Gangeshwar Temple
• Nagoa Beach
• St. Paul’s Church

Delhi ( National Capital Territory)

Visiting Delhi for all brings in a mesmerizing effect. This tour brings back the exquisite delicacies of all times. From forts to Palaces from gardens to Malls all are a perfect picture while one visits Delhi. This is the reason why it is termed as the foremost places to visit in India. The most prominent places of visits are- Bahai Temple, Laxmi Narayan Temple, Qutub Minar, Red fort, Lotus Temple, Humayun Tomb and of course Agra must not be forgotten. For local sightseeing an AC bus costs about 451/- Rs that’s obviously would pinch you little. There are many who visit Delhi for business but usually it turns out to be a fascinating pleasurable tour indeed.

Captial City – New Delhi

Best Places to visit in Delhi :

• Lotus Temple
• Humayun’s Tomb

Beaches, Churches, Astonishing nightlife are the prime attraction in Goa. There are numerous places for travelers to explore some notable are Capora Beach, Dudh Sagar Waterfall, Naval aviation Museum, Palolem   Beach,  Santadurga Temple, StFancis Church, Fort Terekhol, Palace of yusuf Adil shah. Apart from this there are numerous festivals including famous sunburn festival, New Year event that are being celebrated here. The Goans culture is very much friendly and acceptable all round the world. Goa has loads of hotels and Motels and amazing restaurants with delicacies food. It’s a must visit place for all travel lovers.

Capital City of Goa – Panaji

Best Places of Interest in Goa :

• Agonda Beach
• Basilica of Bom Jesus
• Palolem Beach
• Palolem Beach

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Land of lion and legends is the most fashionable and accepted state that attracts most tourists from abroad and India termed as the best   travel destination in India . Gujarat welcomes explorers via exquisite piece of heritage buildings religious sites, beaches with unmatched beauty. This place is popular for various fairs and festivals it’s a must visit for all travelers. The best visit time is October to March as the climate offers neither hot neither cold platter to its visitor. The culture here is a mixture of conservative Hindus and orthodox Muslims. Gujarat is the famous business hub of India for garments, spices and many more. Best can be reached via train or by Air, apart from this bus, and other modes available depending on the budget.

Capital – Gandhinagar

Sightseeing Places in Gujarat :

• Sabarmati Ashram
• Lakhota Museum
• Bhavnath Mahadev
• Saputara Hills

The tourism of Haryana attracts visitors just for the 44 amazing tourist places maintained and supported by the government itself. Some notable places for visit once you plan the tour are: Pinjore Gardens Resort, Kingdom of dreams, leisure Valley Park, Sultanpur National Park Bird Sanctuary, Sarovar Brahma, Chattbir Zoo and many more. The culture if fully based on agriculture of India, they deliver foods like urd, lassi, rajma and khichri – a perfect homemade food direct from village household. The tourist attraction places can be seen during October to March that offers amazing cool and pleasant climate to excavate places of interest.

Capital – Chandigarh

Best Places of interest in Haryana :

• Badhkal Lake
• Morni Hills
• Dumdama Lake
• Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary

The favourite place for all pilgrims due to the Himalayan region with Shivalik ranges around. Culturally heritage place with folk music mingled with colour and life amazes all travelers who visit such exquisite land. One can experience Natti dance, Bakayang dance. Explorer must visit Himachal during spring season, but summers too see influx of tourists visits. Sidu must be tasted there as it’s a traditional food made of wheat and flavored with butter. Places to visit are: Shimla, Kulu Manali, Dharamshala, Palampur, Kalpa, Nathan, great Himalayan National park, Kelyong, Harimpur, Chitkur, SundarNagar these are some of the places for explorers to visit. Do visit Himachal Pradesh which is the famous  tourist place of India .

Shimla is the capital city of Himacha Pradesh

Top destination in Himachal Pradesh :

• Khajjiar (Mini Switzerland of India)

Jammu and Kashmir

Jammy & Kashmir is known for its natural beauty and amazing climate. This place is the best and famous  tourist destination in India .  One must visit Kashmir during winter season travelers prefer the month of April to visit the land of Heaven. Your exquisite trip must include places like Sonamarg, Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Yusmarg and, Charar-i-Sharief, Sinthan top, Vaishno Devi, Patni top. Lohri and Baisakhi is the most popular festival here. Pulaos is a famous food of this place. The place is connected with national highway, and you have the all transport alternatives to reach there. This trip is in your budget, you can easily afford it.

Srinagar is the capital city of Jammu & Kashmir

Best destination to visit in Kashmir :

• Tulip Garden

Jharkhand is a part of Bihar with full of fauna with flora and mineral affluence. The best time to visit this place is from October to February. Flower feast is the most essential festival in this place. A tribal carnival is celebrated here popularly known as Sarhul.  Litti Chokha is the special dish of this place you must taste these. Here you can find some tourist places namely Jagannath Temple, Shiv Temple near Ranchi, Vaidyanath Temple, Deogarh, Betla National Park, Waterfalls, and Hazaribagh National Park. The local transportation is very much available and is very comfortable in Jharkhand. This trip is a little bit of cost though now a day’s easily affordable.

Capital city of Jharkhand – Ranchi

Best place to visit in Jharkhand :

• Hazaribagh Wildlife Sanctuary
• Canary Hill

The place is full of wildlife adventure and historical palaces. The ideal time to visit the place is between Novembers to April. Notable celebrations of Karnataka are Ugadi, Yellamma Fair. Idli, chutney of coconuts are very prominent dish that attracts tourist . If you are planning to visit this land of Idlis must be visited as prominent tourist spots namely wildlife sanctuaries of Bandipur and Nagarhole, Coorg Hills, Udupi Temples, Gokarna Beaches, Bangalore, Mysore and many more places.  By Kayaking, Camping, boat rides and angling you can make your trip a full proof adventurous. From Bangalore you can visit this place smoothly.

Bangalore is the Capital city of Karnataka.

Top sightseeing places in Bangalore :

• Keshava Temple
• Coorg Hills
• Mysore Palace

Get now to Kerala, the own country of god is one of the best tourist destination . Get through the rich culture and heritage out there. The coconut filled beaches in Cochin and Tiruvanthapuram are calling you with its optimal beauty. The best time to visit Kerala between November and February. You will love the martial art classes and Kathakali dance out there. December is the time where you can watch the famous boat race. So get there and enjoy the foods made of triple refined coconut oil. The yummy taste of the foods is calling you to the furthest point of India.

Thiruvananthapuram is the Capital of Kerala.

Best places in Kerala :

• Kerala Folklore Theatre & Museum
• Arthirampally

Lakshadweep (Union Territory)

Lakshadweep, which means “hundred thousand lands” give the tourist thousands reason for visiting this place. If you want to experience an ideal holiday then do not think twice before visiting Lakshadweep. While planning your trip you should consider this place. The major attractions of this place are the three coral reefs, five submerged banks and twelve atolls. Other than these the beautiful marine life, tourists resorts, villages are some best aspects of this destination which enrich the minds of the tourists. The best time to visit this place in between the month of October and May.

Main City – Kavaratti

Main Attraction of Lakshadweep :

• Kavaratti Island
• Amindivi Island
• Agatti Island

Madhya Pradesh

The meandering streams, rushing waterfall, amazing dense forest brings an amazing picturesque nature of this place named – Madhya Pradesh. Full of wildlife and trees covers most of the state. The place welcomes visitors with kebabs, fish curry and not to be forgotten well served Biriyani.  This is because of its strong Muslim authority in the state. All around the year the weather is pleasant but winter is still preferred appropriate for the visit. Tourists must visit places- Bhopal, Gwalior, and Indore, Sanchi Stupa, Khajuraho Erotic Temples, Ujjain, Bhimbhekta and Kanha or Bandhavgarh must be visited.  Do visit during Tansen festival and Dhrupad festival the famous attractions in India . Here you would acquire a mesmerizing memory for ever.

Capital City – Bhopal

Attraction of Madhya Pradesh :

• Khajuraho Erotic Temples
• Buddhist Monuments
• Taj ul Masajid
• Orchha Fort

The craggy hills, incredible climate, foods and amazing frolic make Maharashtra a perfect place  in India. The ideal time of visit is definitely October – November yet all season welcomes tourists and business delegates in the same style . The places of visit includes Ajanta, Ellora, Panchgani, Mumbai , Pune  and the beaches. One must visit  Nagpur, Nasik, Sevagram too. The food  and culture here is the mixed one – as it attracts all genre of population  but the best  Konkan food, i.e. sea foods, Marathi veg foods; bada pao is to be tasted  in maharashtra. One must reach via Mumbai by train or flight . The tour is costly .

Mumbai is the capital of Maharashtra.

Famous places in Mumbai :

• Gateway of India
• Mumbadevi Temple
• Panhala Hills
• Ajanta Cavas
• Jain temple

While choosing your tourist place you would surely want it to be soothing and peaceful. Manipur happens to be such a place in India, which gives a perfect ambience of peace and tranquility. The remarkable tourist spots of this place are Loktak lake, Kangla fort, Imphal war cemetery. Apart from these, the Keibul Lamjao national park also deserves a special mention. When it comes to Manipuri foods then fish dominates its major cuisines.  To enjoy all these aspects you must visit Manipur between the month of October and March. You can reach this place via air, rail or road.

Capital of Manipur – Imphal

Places of Interest in Manipur :

• Sri Sri Govindajee Temple
• Loktak Lake
• Sirohi National Park
• Manipur State Museum

India has many vibrant places to visit. If you are planning to make a trip then you should consider Manipur on your list . Best visiting places of India give soothing travel experience. One of such places is Meghalaya. Meghalaya is well known for its rich natural beauty, which pierces deep into the memories of the visitors. Some of the best places are Umiam Lake, Mawsmai Caves, Double decker living root bridge. You can visit these places at any time of the year except the monsoons. You can visit this place easily by air, as there are multiple options available from major cities like Mumbai, Kolkata , and Delhi. You may also take the advantage of rail conveyance for reaching Meghalaya.

Shillong is the Capital of Meghalaya

Places to visit in Meghalaya :

• Butterfly Museum
• Mawsmai Caves
• Elephant Falls

Mizoram gives you the opportunity to experience a mixed culture of Chinese and North India. This mixture is largely observed in the cuisines of this place. The cuisines over here have delicious flavor. Most recipes have the mixture of Chinese and north Indian culture. The best tourist places of this destination also attract huge tourists. Some of the remarkable tourist spots are Durtlang hills, Mizoram state museum, Burra bazaar. This place holds a special place among other tourist places. The best time to visit this place is between the month of October and March. For visiting this destination, the best mode of transport is by air.

Capital – Aizawl

Popular tourist places :

• Durtlang Hills
• Dampa Wildlife Sanctuary

Do you want to enjoy an exotic and beautiful destination? If yes then do consider visiting Nagaland. When it comes to scenic beauty tourist places then Nagaland will surely give you a remarkable experience. The dialect, culture, tradition and lifestyle of this place give very different experience to the tourist. Nagaland also has variety of visiting places like Kohima War cemetery, Naga Heritage Village, Kisama Heritage Village. When it comes to Nagaland cuisines then “Zutho” deserves a special mention. This is a liquor, which is served with roasted millet, Soya Bean and Red Chilli. You should visit this place in the month of October to enjoy perfect scenic beauty.

Kohima is the Capital of Nagaland.

Places to Visit in Nagaland :

• Naga Heritage Village
• Kohima War Cemetery
• Kisama Heritage Village
• Kohima Museum

Get to one of the holiest destinations of India. Visit Jagannath Temple, Backwater Lake Chilka and do not forget to visit Dhawalgiri, The Asoka made Tomb of Wisdom. Structures and temples are surrounding the culturally rich state of Orissa. Get to the beaches of Puri , one of the most visited  attraction of Puri , visited the most. The food style of the state is perfectly Indian with super spicy foods. Visit the place of white tigers between the month of October and January. You will love to get through this place.

Capital – Bhubaneswar

Tourist places in Puri  :

• Lingaraja Temple
• Hanuman Vatika
• Mahanadi Barrage
• Jagannath Temple

Pondicherry (Union Territory)

Get to the lovely looking French colony in India. Find the lovely four beaches and do not forget to visit Auroville. The place is outstanding with serene beauty. Reach the aesthetic height at the place with spiritual environment all around. Climate of the place remains ideal throughout the year. However, you can make the most of the destination while you visit it between October and January. You can figure out a perfect route plan from there.

Main City – Pondicherry Town

Tourist Attractions of Pondicherry

• Seaside Promenade
• Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus
• Paradise Beach
• Pondicherry Botanical Garden

Punjab the land of Sikhs holds a special place for all tourists mind for its vigor and vitality. One of the best things about this destination is its impeccable delicious finger-licking foods. Punjabi foods are known for being highly healthy and tasty appetites like Lassi, Parathas, Tawa Roti, Tadka and so on. Punjab also has various tourist attractions like Bhakra Nangal Dam, Harike bird sanctuary, Qila Mubarak. For enjoying the best time, you should visit here between the month of October and March.  To visit Punjab does try train or air accessible from Delhi the nearby well-known place or via Chandigarh might sound interesting.

Capital of Punjab – Chandigarh

Places of Interest in Chandigarh

• Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib)
• Rangla Punjab Haveli
• Bhatinda Zoological Park

The land of legendary Rajputanas are calling you with all its glory and history. Visit the forts at Udaipur and Chittor, where stories of legendary Rana Pratap and Meera Bai are encrypted. Get through Rajasthani Folks, the basic of Classical Raga. Do not forget to visit the Pink City Jaipur and the Aravalli at Mount Abu. The state is having wonderful beauty although surrounded by the great Thar Desert at West. Visit Baluchistan and Jaisalmer, with all its golden arts. Glittering gold in the Morning sun will help you identify the deer and peacocks in numbers. Best time to visit this top destination   in the month of October and November. Also, December is good, but not preferred by many.

Jaipur is the Major city of Rajasthan

Rajasthan points of interest :

• Jaipur – The Pink City
• Gadisar Lake
• Thar Desert

The old Chinese State, is calling you with all its hilly beauty, full of flora and fauna, since the time it came to India. The land to spread Buddhism is having the biggest monastery of India at Rumtek, a few kilometres from the state capital, Gangtok. Get to Nathula Pass and Changu lake, the best tourist places , few kilometres from the capital city Gangtok. You will find the Chinese border there. The luxurious hilly beauty is even more overwhelming at Yung-Tham and Peling. Get the view of Kanchenjunga from there. Do not forget to taste Momo out there in Sikkim. If you are familiar, you can taste some beverages at the state capital too. Charges are half due to tax reduction. Visit the place between March and May to find the awesome beauty of the hills.

Capital city – Gangtok

Sightseeing Places in Sikkim :

• Tsomgo Lake
• Ranka Monastery
• Do Drul Chorten Stupa

Get to the land of Balaji and Meenaxi. The landmass is over the Deccan plateau and is rich in culture and heritage. Famous temples, ancient arts and tradition is crowding the state, along with rich food culture. Do not miss the Sambars, while visiting the state. Get to the southernmost corner of the nation at Kanyakumari and get to one of the famous Jyotirlingams at Rameshwaram. Numerous beaches are there in the capital city, but all is well, if you can visit the idol of Balaji at Tirupati. Visit the place in the month of October and November and enjoy the pleasant weather.

Capital city – Chennai

Top destination in Tamil Nadu :

• Bragadeeshwara Temple
• Mahabalipuram monuments
• Ooty Botanical gardens

It is a small but interesting state in India. The lovely state is having Gomati river, running through the middle of the state. Agartala, the capital of the state is having a sparse population. A major part of the people here are Bengali. However, a part of the population is Tibeto-Burmese. Visiting spots around the place are not plenty, but some are really to be listed among the top destination. TripureswariMandir is one prime place that you must visit here, along with the serene beauty all around. Lovely Bengali foods are available throughout the place. Get to the state in the months of winter, through Agartala.

Capital City – Agartala

Popular places of Tripura :

• Iskcon Radha-Govinda Mandir
• Neermahal Palace

Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh was one of the biggest states in India, before Uttaranchal became an independent state. Many of the tourist destinations of the earlier state moved to Uttaranchal. Still there are lots of holy places that you will find in this state. Go to Allahabad during the Pushkar Fair. Other than that, you will get Mathura, Vrindavan and even the gorgeous Taj Mahal is here. If you are a food lover, do not miss to visit Lucknow. Get the kababs and Biryani there. Get to the state through Lucknow airport. You can also reach there by train through Kanpur or Allahabad.

Capital City – Lucknow

Sightseeing Places of Uttar Pradesh :

• Bara Imambara

The undulating hills, gurgling streams, icy glaciers are the most and amazing center of attraction in Uttarakhand. Here culture is Kumaoni and Garhwali that is extremely famous and the local instrument here is flute and amazingly attracts tourists from all zones. The attractions are Kathgodam, Kotdwar Haridwar Nainital and mussourie, the bus services here is affordable and flexible Uttarakhand accepts visitors all around the year, summers and winters see full influx of visitors. Mandua , barley  are consumed much more than rice and wheat the famous sweet here for you to taste is baal mithai of Almora . One can reach there via train, bus and flight from Delhi, the cost of the trip is a bit more than the others.

Capital City – Dehradun

Popular places in Uttarakhand :

• Nainital the lake district
• Badrinath Temple

West Bengal is a famous land of cultural value, handicraft and notable historical buildings. The best time to visit this place is October to March, though all seasons accepts travelers all round the year. This place is full of poetry, music, films and theater. Once you visit this place you must visit Kolkata, Darjeeling, Tiger hill, Siliguri, Digha, Sundarban, Bakkhali, Mandarmoni, Gangasagar, Bankura, Bishnupur, Kamarpukur, and Jairambati. West Bengal has a cheap transportation system locally. This trip is not high in budget, is affordable by explorer all round the globe.

Capital City – Kolkata

Places of Interests in West Bengal

• Darjeeling Mountain Hills
• Digha Sea Beach
• Murshidabad Historical City

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24 comments.

Yes indeed!

India has a rich culture and lots of states that anyone would love to visit too. I liked the way you have put up the places worth seeing within each city, which makes it easy for anyone to understand the places of interest.

Thanks for sharing. 🙂

Well, I too agree with your point of statement that “India is great land of tourism” and thus, the way you’ve distributed each states and their special tourist places to hang out. I really liked your blog. Keep writing and sharing with us. Thanks!!

It was interesting reading about your experience in India and I would like to visit India again when I have time and money! so Thanks for sahring a great a post.

India is a fantastic country to celebrate holidays with all the aspects of life. Great Idea that for putting places in the tabular form. Thanks for sharing.

Nice Listing.Yeah India is very very diverse,probably the most diverse of countries that you will find on this earth.I got so many places from your post,its really informative post.If you haven’t been there,do visit India once in your life time.

India is one of the best country to holiday because it offers history and culture with beautiful cities.

Thanks a lot Srimantha for providing us such a nice and informative posting. I am from Orissa and i just want to say there are a number of renowned visiting spots in Odisha other than your list. One of the best visiting spot is Puri. Puri is famous for lord Jagannath temple and a wide sea beach. Do you know Nabakalebara, the life-force-infusing ritual in the Jagannath cult? Which is one of the best and renowned ritual of lord Jagannath among other rituals. There is a new mobile app on nabakalebara of lord Jagannath is in the air now. Get updates and information on lord Jagannath’s nabakalebara (New Life) festival on your android mobile phone wherever you may be. Install the app on your mobile so that your friends and relatives can get updates on lord Jagannath’s historic event every time. This exclusive app is for every lovers of lord Jagannath. You can get the app link here to install in your mobile. Nabakalebara of Puri Jagannath

Really a very nice article post. I live in US and after reading this post i would love to visit India once.

hi Srimanta Ghosh

it’s very useful article about the travel in India.

Thanks for providing such a informative post. You might have done very hard to provide such grateful article. Just adding few more visiting places in Karnataka we shouldn’t missed. Nagarhole National Park, Jog falls, Mysore palace, Lal bagh, Kudremukh and gokarna. Book your dream holiday vacation Now. Just book a innova for rent from bangalore. Visit all your favorite places at affordable price. http://www.innovacarrental.com/

Dear thanks for tell all about this . India is one & only a country in which anybody can get most of experience of the entire world culture , tradition,languages , and other similar things . you describe it smoothly . it will help & also make Indian Or outsider to take a trip of India. good work.

mny mny thnx to u…….

I m vry Hpy to see all the famous place of India… I love my India…. I m sashikant majhi from- odisha,kalahandi

Glad to know that you are happy to see these famous places.

Keep Visiting. Thank you

Waaoooo!!!!! I am so much excited to visit the places.And feel good for situating these all very beautiful places in my country.Love you yaar..!!!! You have drafted it perfectly.I am very much affected by the way that you have explained.

Thank you for your valuable feedback.

Great post! Presented in a detailed manner with beautiful pictures. My favorite destinations are Kashmir and Kerala and you have described them so well. Thank you!

Hi Kalyan Jee,

We’re here to give you details information and guide to make your trip more esier.

Keep Visiting.

India is full of tourist places and every state has more than a dozen of tourist places which are truly incredible. Thanks for sharing these valuable facts. It will definitely help the nomads who want to grasp every subject of traveling. These places are really beautiful and every visit is a worthy visit. People traveling to abroad for exploring places but I must urge them to visit India first. Probably they don’t have idea about these places. Finding a good budget hotel is the main problem while visiting places. So whoever wants to visit popular places must book their ticket online.

thanks ! highly benefited .

Thank you Pranab for stopping by 🙂

Great post! good informations

Nice posts and it helped me to know about my country more deeply

Thank you Prachit Mishra, We glad to know it helped you to know more about tourist places in India 🙂

Thank you. It really helped me in my school project.

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What to See and Where to Go in India

India is an extremely diverse country , with every state offering something different. This can make planning a trip challenging. Where to go? What to see? And all in so little time! This guide to India tourist places by region provides a roundup of all the highlights of each state in India to give you an idea of where you should focus your attention.

Interested in the best of what India has to offer? Narrow it down with these 11 Top Tourist Places in India.  Or, if you'd rather venture away from the tourist trail, here are 12 of the Best Places to Visit in India Off the Beaten Track.

Andaman and Nicobar Islands

India isn't just mainland. Around 1,000 kilometers off the east coast of India, in the Bay of Bengal, the pristine Andaman and Nicobar Islands also fall under Indian territory. Havelock Island is the most popular place to visit and offers snorkeling and scuba diving. Intermediate and advanced surfers also head to the Andaman Islands to catch some of the best waves in India. Foreigners need a permit, issued on arrival at Port Blair. Wondering where to stay? Here are the 5 Best Havelock Island Hotels for all Budgets.

Andhra Pradesh and Telangana

Andhra Pradesh is predominately visited by Hindu pilgrims, who go in droves to the temple at Tirupati . The capital of Telangana, Hyderabad, also draws visitors to the Charminar, Golconda Fort , and royal tombs. This City of Nizams is full of glorious Islamic heritage from centuries of prosperous rule, and is definitely worth exploring. Here are 8 Essential Things to Do in Hyderabad.

Bihar has changed and improved a lot in recent years, and now has huge potential as a tourist destination in terms of spiritual and rural tourism. One of the main reasons you'd want to visit Bihar is to explore the birthplace of Buddhism in India, including Bodhgaya and the Mahabodhi Temple . A convenient way of doing this is by taking the Buddhist tourist train . The Sonepur Fair is an interesting rural-style fair.

Goa has always been one of the most popular tourist places in India. People to flock there for its beaches and bars. However, that's not all the state offers. Adventure activities and watersports , shopping, spice plantations, nature, and history are added attractions. Also check out these 8 Cultural Things to Do in Goa Beyond the Beaches and Bars.

Gujarat, a state known for its entrepreneurial ability, doesn't commonly feature on the tourist trail in India. Yet, it does have some notable attractions. Most famous is the Sabarmati Ashram that Gandhi founded in Ahmedabad, and which served as his headquarters during India's struggle for independence. The Great Rann of Kutch white salt desert , Indian wild ass on the salt plains of the Little Rann of Kutch , tribal villages and textiles in the Kutch district , and lions at Gir National Park are other things worth a look. If you're there for the Navaratri festival, don't miss the famous Gujarati garba dancing!

Himachal Pradesh

Want mountains? Himachal Pradesh is the place! Its mountainous landscape, at the foothills of the Himalayas, is made up of a series of valleys and snow covered peaks. Himachal Pradesh is deservedly sought out by adventure lovers. Alternatively, the state provides a refreshing escape for those who are craving crisp mountain air. Enjoy historic toy trains, Buddhist meditation and philosophy, remote high altitude villages, and even skiing during the winter!

Jammu and Kashmir

TripSavvy / Alicia Erikson

The state of Jammu and Kashmir is one of India's most controversial tourist places and one which many people don't feel comfortable visiting. There has been significant unrest there in the past, particularly between Hindu Jammu and Muslim Kashmir. However, plenty of visitors head to Leh, in the Buddhist Ladakh region. The region offers some outstanding treks . Otherwise, visitors tend to prefer the hill station of Srinagar where house boating is popular. The Shiva caves in Jammu and Kashmir also attract pilgrims, along with the Buddhist monasteries .

Karnataka, in south India, has a lot to offer. Unfortunately though, travel to Karnataka is often overlooked in favor of more popular places in Goa, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu. Those who visit Karnataka's tourist places will be rewarded with a memorable mix of ancient ruins, royal heritage, coffee plantations, yoga, national parks, and beach.

Kerala, in south India, is often referred to as "God's Own Country". This coastal state has grown to be one of the most popular tourist places in India, up there with Rajasthan and Goa. It's rich in distinctive traditions and culture, and lush unspoiled tropical beauty. Most of all, Kerala is known for its elephants, elaborate temple festivals, and the tranquil backwaters . The pace of life is slow, making Kerala the perfect place for a leisurely vacation. However, there are plenty of things to do in Kerala for those who want to be active. Discover when's the best time to visit Kerala .

Madhya Pradesh

Madhya Pradhesh, in central India, draws visitors with well preserved remnants of its compelling history. Its many abandoned cities provide an intriguing window to the past, so different to the congested India of today. In further contrast, the national parks of Madhya Pradesh offer some of the best wildlife spotting opportunities in India. However, the erotic temples at Khajuraho are the most famed attraction.

Maharashtra

Maharashtra is a very large and diverse coastal state that attracts visitors with ancient cave temples, forts, mountains, wineries, tribes , and beaches. Of course, there is cosmopolitan Mumbai as well.

North East India

The North East of India is made up of seven adjoining states plus Sikkim (see below) and is the most tribal regions of India. Although the mountainous scenery is arresting, the northeast region remains the least visited part of India due to its remoteness and permit requirements. You'll find everything from Buddhist monasteries, to tea plantations and natural caves there.

Odisha is one of India's lesser frequented states, as it's predominantly rural and "off the beaten track". However, tourist interest in Odisha's unique combination of attractions including temples, tribes, and traditional dance festivals is growing. Silver jewelry is a specialty, along with an endearing array of specialized handicrafts.

Punjab, with its fertile farming land, is one of India's most prosperous states. Home to bhangra music, the brotherhood of the Sikh religion, the Golden Temple , and Wagah border, it has a lively culture. Capital city Chandigarh is a modern day planned city that's different to any other in India. However, to get a real taste of Punjab, it's necessary to venture further afield to discover the simplicity and charm of rural life, amidst an ever-growing urban life.

Rajasthan is one of the most visited states in India. It's not surprising because it shows India at its most colorful and exotic best. All the things that come to mind when you think of India can be found in Rajasthan -- palaces, forts, desert, camels, elephants, twirled mustaches, and snake charmers.

Bordered by China, Nepal, and Bhutan, Sikkim has long been regarded as one of the last Himalayan Shangri-las. Because of its remoteness and the fact that permits are required, Sikkim isn't the most accessible area to visit in India. However, it certainly is one of the most energetic and refreshing. There's something very soothing to the soul about the mountainous beauty and ancient Tibetan Buddhist culture in Sikkim. Trekking is a popular activity as well.

Tamil Nadu, in south India, is a fascinating state full of ancient Dravidian architecture. Intricately crafted temples , rock carvings, and classical dance are some of the attractions in Tamil Nadu. The hill stations are also popular destinations. Most importantly, Tamil Nadu is one of the best states in India for solo female travelers.

Uttar Pradesh

The vast area of Uttar Pradesh is home to some of India's much loved, and well known, spiritual and historical destinations. These include the Taj Mahal , Fatehpur Sikri , and Varanasi . Rural Uttar Pradesh, the poorest part of India, is best avoided, however. There is little to see there and women travelers may feel uncomfortable.

Uttarakhand

Uttarakhand, bordered by Nepal and Tibet, and shadowed by towering Himalayan peaks, is full of unspoiled natural beauty. It's divided into two regions -- Garhwal in the north, and Kumaon in the south. Ancient holy places, forests and valleys, national parks, and an abundance of trekking options are some of the attractions that make travel to Uttarakhand worthwhile.

West Bengal

India's cultural cauldron of West Bengal combines the arts, the city, the countryside, mountains, and nature. Whether you're intellectually inclined and want to be among writers and wandering minstrels, or adventurous and want to be among elephants and rhinoceroses, there's something for everyone!

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10 Most Visited States of India By Domestic and Foreign Tourists

Most visited states of india: india is emerging as a tourist destination. take a look at the statistics of 2022 to know about the most visited states of india..

Most Visited States of India: Indian tourism is a mesmerizing kaleidoscope of diverse cultures, landscapes, and traditions. Boasting ancient monuments and a rich heritage. Also, in recent years state governments are taking considerable steps to develop and promote tourist visits. Addressing a gathering in Mathura, the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh said, " Today UP is drawing the maximum number of tourists. Earlier Goa was at number one and Uttar Pradesh at number three. But last year 80 lakh tourists went to Goa and seven crore devotees came to Kashi (Varanasi) and six crore devotees visited the Braj area." 

List of Most Visited States of India

Tamil Nadu: The Dravidian-style Hindu temples of Tamil Nadu, a state in South India, are one of the most famous tourist attractions. Meenakshi Amman Temple in Madurai boasts tall, colourfully decorated towers known as "gopurams." Ramanathaswamy Temple is a holy place on Pamban Island which is a must visiting spot for both domestic and foreign visitors. The colonial Fort St. George from 1644 is one of the highlights in the capital city of Chennai and it cannot be concluded without witnessing the charm of the ritual sunrises of Kanyakumari.

Uttar Pradesh: Uttar Pradesh, India's culturally rich state, offers numerous tourist attractions. The iconic Taj Mahal in Agra, one of the seven wonders of the world stands as a symbol of eternal love. Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities, entices with its spiritual aura along the Ganges River. The historical city of Lucknow showcases impressive architecture and delicious Awadhi cuisine. Mathura birthplace of Lord Krishna, Ayodhya, where Lord Rama was born, and  Allahabad, now Prayagraj, holds religious significance with the confluence of three sacred rivers.

Andhra Pradesh: Andhra Pradesh boasts several captivating tourist spots. Araku Valley's scenic beauty, Visakhapatnam's beaches, and Tirupati's sacred temple draw many visitors. The historic Golconda Fort and the serene Nagarjuna Sagar Dam are also popular destinations. For cultural enthusiasts, the ancient Buddhist site of Amaravati and the beautiful Belum Caves offer enriching experiences.

Karnataka: Karnataka, a diverse state in India, presents a plethora of tourist places. The majestic Mysore Palace and beautiful Brindavan Gardens in Mysuru are must-visit destinations. Bengaluru, the state capital, is known for its modern charm and vibrant nightlife. The ancient ruins of Hampi, the serene Coorg hill station, and the wildlife-rich Bandipur National Park also attract visitors from all over.

Maharashtra: Maharashtra is home to various tourist spots and cuisine. Mumbai, the bustling capital, boasts iconic landmarks like the Gateway of India and Marine Drive. The ancient Ajanta and Ellora Caves in Aurangabad showcase magnificent rock-cut architecture. Pune's historical sites, Mahabaleshwar's scenic beauty, and the pristine beaches of Goa, which partly lie in Maharashtra, add to the state's allure.

Punjab: Punjab, a vibrant state in northern India, to plan visits. The Golden Temple in Amritsar, a spiritual and cultural symbol, attracts visitors from all faiths. The historic Jallianwala Bagh memorial and Wagah Border ceremony are also significant attractions. Patiala's palaces and gardens showcase architectural splendour. Punjab's warm hospitality, lively festivals, and delectable cuisine add to its appeal for tourists.

Delhi: Delhi, the capital city is an important commercial, transport and cultural hub of India. The historic Red Fort and Qutub Minar are iconic landmarks. India Gate stands as a memorial to soldiers, while Humayun's Tomb showcases impressive Mughal architecture. The Lotus Temple and Akshardham Temple offer spiritual experiences. Chandni Chowk's bustling markets and the modern ambience of Connaught Place add to Delhi's charm.

Kerala : Kerala, known as "God's Own Country," is a paradise for tourists. The serene backwaters of Alleppey and Kumarakom offer tranquil houseboat experiences. Munnar's tea plantations and the wildlife-rich Periyar National Park captivate nature lovers. The beautiful beaches of Kovalam and Varkala provide relaxation by the Arabian Sea. Kerala's rich culture, Ayurvedic treatments, and delicious cuisine make it a top travel destination.

India has witnessed a boost in tourism over the years. Tourists visit India for its rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and unique experiences. The country's historical landmarks, like the Taj Mahal and ancient temples, draw visitors in search of architectural marvels. India's natural beauty, from the snow-capped Himalayas to the serene backwaters of Kerala, offers breathtaking sights. The bustling cities provide a glimpse into the vibrant life of the country. The diverse cuisine, colourful festivals, and traditional arts and crafts fascinate travellers seeking immersive cultural experiences. Additionally, India's spiritual heritage and yoga retreats attract seekers of inner peace and self-discovery. Overall, India's allure lies in its ability to captivate and enchant visitors from around the world.

Get here current GK and GK quiz questions in English and Hindi for India , World, Sports and Competitive exam preparation. Download the Jagran Josh Current Affairs App .

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Exploring the Gems of India: Famous Tourist Places State Wise Guide

India is a land of diverse cultures, rich history, and breathtaking landscapes. From hidden gems off the beaten path to family-friendly destinations, there is something for every traveler to explore. In this article, we will delve into the famous tourist places in India state-wise, highlighting the unique experiences each region has to offer.

Key Takeaways

• India offers a plethora of hidden gems waiting to be discovered off the beaten path.
• Exploring Northeast India provides a glimpse into a unique blend of Southeast Asian vibes within India.
• Unexplored beaches in Maharashtra offer a serene escape from the bustling tourist spots.
• Family-friendly destinations in India cater to all ages and provide memorable experiences for everyone.
• Top tips for traveling in India include choosing the best route, exploring cultural and historic sites, and engaging in adventure activities.

Hidden Gems of India

Off the Beaten Path in India

Venturing beyond the well-trodden paths in India reveals a country brimming with hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. Bundi , a quaint town in Rajasthan, is a mere 4-hour bus ride from Jaipur and offers a serene escape from the bustling tourist spots. Here, you can immerse yourself in the charm of its blue houses and intricate stepwells, far from the crowds.

In the quest for authenticity, consider exploring the forests and villages of Goa by bike, where the real essence of this coastal state lies beyond its popular beaches. The journey to Majuli Island in Northeast India is arduous but rewarding, presenting a slice of culture untouched by mainstream tourism.

Embrace the adventure of the less traveled roads and you’ll find that the real India is not just a place, but an experience that challenges and enriches.

For those willing to venture off the beaten path, here’s a quick guide:

• Rajasthan : Discover the hidden gem of Bundi
• Goa : Explore the hinterlands on two wheels
• Northeast India : Experience the unique vibes of Majuli Island

Remember, the true spirit of India is found not in the comfort of familiar enclaves but in the thrill of the unknown. So pack your bags, and let the journey begin.

Exploring Northeast India

Venturing into the Northeast of India is akin to discovering a hidden sanctuary, far removed from the well-trodden paths of the more frequented tourist destinations. Majuli Island , a serene locale nestled amidst the vibrant culture of the region, stands out as a must-visit. It’s a place where the echoes of Southeast Asia resonate, yet it remains distinctly Indian in spirit.

The journey to Northeast India is not just about the destinations, but also about embracing the unexpected. The warmth and hospitality of the locals are unparalleled, often leaving travelers with a profound sense of connection and belonging.

While the region’s beauty is undeniable, it is the unique experiences that truly captivate the hearts of those who wander here. From the bustling city of Kolkata, the gateway to the East, to the tranquil villages and lush forests, every corner of Northeast India offers a story waiting to be told.

For those seeking an authentic Indian adventure, the states of Tamil Nadu and Odisha present a tapestry of cultural richness and diversity. The festivals here, especially the vibrant Holi, are not just events but a spectacle of color and joy that embody the essence of India’s celebratory spirit.

Unexplored Beaches of Maharashtra

Maharashtra, often overshadowed by its bustling capital Mumbai, harbors some of the most serene and unexplored beaches in India. Guhagar Beach stands out as a pristine stretch of coastline, offering tranquility away from the tourist throngs. Here, you can bask in the sun with the beach almost entirely to yourself during the day.

Another hidden treasure is Tilmati Beach, known for its distinctive black sand. This beach remains a secret haven primarily frequented by locals and fishermen. For those seeking a unique seaside experience, Tilmati is a must-visit.

While exploring these coastal gems, consider staying in Mahabaleshwar. This hill station is not only a retreat from the coastal heat but also provides breathtaking sunset views from Wilson Point.

Maharashtra’s coastline is a testament to the diverse beauty of India’s shores, offering a peaceful escape for those willing to venture off the beaten path.

Family-Friendly Destinations in India

Best Family Holiday Destinations

When planning a family holiday in India, the key is to find destinations that cater to the interests of all family members. India’s diversity offers a plethora of options that can make your trip memorable, with each location providing unique experiences that can bring your family closer together.

Family holidays are not just about relaxation, but also about stepping out of your comfort zone and creating lasting memories. Here’s a list of family-friendly destinations that are popular among travelers:

• Jaipur : Known for its rich history and majestic forts, Jaipur offers a cultural feast for families.
• Goa : With its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife, Goa is perfect for families looking for both relaxation and adventure.
• Kerala : Referred to as ‘God’s Own Country’, Kerala’s backwaters and greenery provide a serene escape.
• Ooty : The hill station of Ooty is ideal for families who enjoy nature and want to explore the mountains.

Finding the right balance between adventure and relaxation is crucial for a successful family holiday. Destinations like Myrtle Beach offer affordability and a variety of activities that can keep everyone entertained.

Lastly, consider the season and climate when choosing your destination. Whether you’re looking to enjoy the winter snows or bask in the warmth of a sunny beach, India has destinations that are enchanting throughout the year. Remember, a well-planned trip can lead to a budget-friendly and enjoyable holiday for the entire family.

Moderate and Friendly Approaches

When traveling with family, it’s essential to adopt a moderate and friendly approach to ensure a pleasant experience for all. Embrace the local culture with an open mind, but also be mindful of your family’s comfort levels. Engaging with locals can enrich your journey, yet it’s crucial to maintain a balance between openness and personal boundaries.

Responsible tourism is not just a buzzword; it’s a practice that can enhance your travel experience. By choosing places that inspire responsible tourism, you contribute to the sustainability of the destinations you visit. India, with its diverse landscapes and vibrant communities, has become a sought-after destination for travelers around the world.

Here are a few tips to practice responsible tourism with your family:

• Respect local customs and traditions.
• Support local businesses by purchasing authentic souvenirs.
• Participate in eco-friendly activities that minimize environmental impact.

Remember, your actions as a tourist can leave a lasting impact on the places you visit. Make choices that ensure the places you love remain beautiful and welcoming for future generations.

Top Tips for Traveling in India

Choosing The Best Route

When planning your journey through India, consider the diversity and size of the country . It’s essential to choose a route that allows you to experience the rich tapestry of culture, history, and landscapes without feeling overwhelmed. For instance, a popular travel route is: Delhi

Kerala. This itinerary offers a blend of urban and rural experiences, historical sites, and natural beauty.

Embrace the slower pace of travel to truly absorb each destination’s unique charm. Rushing from place to place can lead to a superficial experience, so allocate enough time to explore and relax.

While personal transport may offer freedom, it can also be expensive and logistically challenging. Utilize local transportation options to save money and gain a more authentic experience. Remember, the journey is as important as the destination itself.

Exploring Cultural and Historic Sites

India’s rich tapestry of culture and history is woven into the very fabric of its cities and landscapes. Exploring cultural and historic sites is not just about visiting monuments, it’s about immersing oneself in the stories and traditions that have shaped the nation. From the ancient ruins of Hampi to the vibrant streets of Varanasi, each site offers a unique glimpse into India’s past and present.

Heritage walks and guided tours can provide deeper insights into the significance of these places. Engaging with local historians and artisans also enriches the experience, offering personal anecdotes and lesser-known facts that bring these sites to life.

When planning your itinerary, prioritize sites that resonate with your interests. Whether it’s the architectural marvels of the Mughal Empire or the spiritual sanctuaries of the Buddhist and Jain communities, India has a cultural site to match every curiosity.

Here’s a quick list of must-visit cultural and historic sites in India:

• The Taj Mahal in Agra
• The forts and palaces of Rajasthan
• The ancient temples of Khajuraho
• The historic city of Mysore
• The rock-cut caves of Ajanta and Ellora

Remember, the best way to appreciate India’s cultural heritage is to respect the customs and traditions associated with each site. Dress appropriately, follow the guidelines, and take the time to truly absorb the atmosphere and significance of these incredible places.

Engaging in Adventure Activities

India offers a plethora of options for those looking to engage in adventure activities . From the high-altitude treks in the Himalayas to the underwater experiences in the Andaman Islands, every adventure promises a unique thrill.

Adrenaline junkies can find their fix with activities like bungee jumping in Rishikesh, paragliding in Bir Billing, or white-water rafting on the Ganges. For a more structured adventure, consider the following:

• Trekking : Explore the diverse trails ranging from easy to challenging.
• Camping : Connect with nature under the starlit sky.
• Wildlife Safaris : Encounter India’s exotic fauna in their natural habitat.
• Water Sports : Dive, surf, and sail on India’s extensive coastline.

Embrace the spirit of adventure and let India’s landscapes challenge and inspire you. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or trying something new, the country’s varied terrain offers something for everyone.

Remember to respect local customs and the environment as you embark on your adventures. Safety should always be a priority, so ensure you’re well-prepared and equipped for the activities you choose.

Must-Visit States in India

Rajasthan – The Land of Palaces

Rajasthan, known for its regal legacy, is a treasure trove of historical grandeur and architectural brilliance. The City Palace in Udaipur stands as a testament to the state’s rich past, with its blend of Chinese and European influences amidst lush greenery. Visitors can explore the Crystal Gallery, which houses ancient artifacts and showcases Rajasthani art.

Lake Pichola , another gem in the City of Lakes, offers picturesque views and is connected to a network of smaller lakes, enhancing the charm of Udaipur.

The Oberoi Rajvilas in Jaipur epitomizes the splendor of the Rajput era, with its fortress-like structure and tranquil gardens. Guests are treated to a royal experience, complete with elephant rides and exploration expeditions.

For those seeking a blend of culture and luxury, the Rambagh Palace, a TAJ Hotel in Jaipur, provides first-class amenities and a glimpse into the life of royalty. The hotel’s offerings include:

• Fine dining restaurants
• Business center
• Outdoor and indoor pools
• 90 guest rooms and suites

Each destination in Rajasthan tells a story of timelessness, from the blue city of Jodhpur with its cultural richness to the Golden City of Jaisalmer, known for its majestic fort and vibrant culture. Rajasthan is not just a state; it’s an experience that stays with you long after you’ve left its palatial confines.

South India – Off the Beaten Track Adventures

South India offers a treasure trove of experiences far removed from the well-trodden paths of popular tourist destinations. Bangalore , a bustling tech hub, serves as a gateway to the region’s less explored locales. Venture beyond to discover the serene beauty of Kodagu , where you might find yourself as the sole foreigner amidst its untouched charm.

Mysore, a city that wins the hearts of many, is a must-visit with its clean streets and rich cultural tapestry. From there, the journey continues to the tranquil backwaters of Alleppey, best navigated by local boats to uncover secluded spots away from the crowds.

The real India can be tough and challenging, but it is also one of the most rewarding budget travel destinations in the world.

For those seeking solace in nature, the Indian mountains offer an unparalleled experience. While not as vast as the neighboring Himalayas, the peaks of South India provide a unique blend of spirituality and adventure. Embrace the opportunity to get off the beaten path and immerse yourself in the authentic essence of India.

In conclusion, India is a land of diverse wonders and hidden gems waiting to be explored. From the iconic Taj Mahal to the serene Majuli Island, each destination offers a unique experience that will leave a lasting impression. Traveling through India unveils a tapestry of culture, history, and natural beauty that is truly captivating. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, India has something to offer for every traveler. Embark on a journey to discover the gems of India and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some hidden gems in india that are off the beaten path.

Some hidden gems in India off the beaten path include Bundi in Rajasthan, Majuli Island in Northeast India, and unexplored beaches in Maharashtra.

What are some family-friendly destinations in India?

Some family-friendly destinations in India include Rajasthan with its palaces, and South India for off the beaten track adventures.

What are some top tips for traveling in India?

Some top tips for traveling in India include choosing the best route, exploring cultural and historic sites, and engaging in adventure activities.

What are some must-visit states in India?

Some must-visit states in India are Rajasthan, known as the Land of Palaces, and South India for off the beaten track adventures.

What are some famous wonders of India that must be visited?

Some famous wonders of India that must be visited include the Taj Mahal, Rajasthan palaces, and the cultural and historic sites in South India.

How can travelers explore off the beaten path in India?

Travelers can explore off the beaten path in India by visiting hidden gems like Bundi, Majuli Island, and unexplored beaches in Maharashtra.

What are some family-friendly holiday destinations in India?

Some family-friendly holiday destinations in India are Rajasthan with its palaces and South India for off the beaten track adventures.

What are the best routes to explore in India?

The best routes to explore in India include visiting the Taj Mahal, Rajasthan, South India, and engaging in adventure activities.

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We have broken down India into 7 or 8 zones and we will be traveling non-stop and rolling the Camera the whole time. Lastly, it’s doable in 30 days. May sound crazy but it’s actually doable. It will be crazy but then that is what will make it adventurous and newsworthy!

Delhi to Srinagar

We’ll start our journey from Delhi, the capital of India.

• New Delhi, Delhi (UT1)
• Gurgaon, Haryana (S1)
• Noida, Uttar Pradesh (S2)
• Haridwar, Uttarakhand (S3)
• Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
• Dehradun, Uttarakhand
• Chandigarh (UT2), Punjab (S4)
• Dharmshala, Himachal Pradesh (S5)
• Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir (S6)
• Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir

Srinagar to Delhi

Flight time is 95 min @ $40pp

Delhi, Agra, Jaipur (Golden Traingle)

Jaipur to goa.

• Jaipur, Rajasthan (S7)
• Ajmer, Rajasthan
• Jodhpur, Rajasthan
• Udaipur, Rajasthan
• Ahmedabad, Gujarat (S8)
• Surat, Gujarat
• Daman and Diu (UT3)
• Dadra and Nagar Haveli (UT4)
• Mumbai, Maharashtra (S9)
• Pune, Maharashtra

Goa to Bangalore

Flight time is 75 min @ $25pp

Southern India Loop

• Bangalore, Karanataka (S11)
• Mysore, Karnataka
• Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (S12)
• Kochi, Kerala (S13)
• Lakshadweep (UT6)
• Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
• Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu
• Madurai, Tamil Nadu
• Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu
• Trichy, Tamil Nadu
• Pondicherry (UT5)
• Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu
• Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu
• Chennai, Tamil Nadu
• Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh (S14)
• Back to Bangalore (246 KM, 6 Hours car drive from Tirupati)

Bangalore to Hyderabad

80 min flight time @ $20pp

• Hyderabad, Telangana (S15)

Hyderabad to Patna

Patna to khajuraho.

• Patna, Bihar (S20)
• Bodh Gaya, Bihar
• Varanashi, Uttar Pradesh
• Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh (S16)
• Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh

Kanpur to Kolkata

Kolkata to bagdogra.

Flight time is 80 min @ $30pp

• Bagdogra, West Bengal
• Darjeeling, West Bengal
• Gangtok, Sikkim (S22)

Bagdogra to Guwahati

Flight time is 55 min @ $25pp

Guwahati to Aizawl

• Guwahati, Assam (S23)
• Shillong, Meghalaya (S25)
• Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh (S24)
• Imphal, Manipur (S26)
• Kohima, Nagaland (S27)
• Aizawl, Mizoram (S28)
• Agartala, Tripura (S29)

Agartala to Kolkata

Kolkata to port blair.

• Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Port Blair (UT7)

Port Blair to Kolkata

South east loop.

• Kolkata, West Bengal
• Konark, Orissa
• Puri, Orissa (S18)
• Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh
• Chitrakut Falls, Chhattisgarh
• Raipur, Chhattisgarh (S17)
• Ranchi, Jharkhand (S19)

Partnership

We want to connect with as many Indian bloggers and brands as possible! If you would like to join for a part of the trip – welcome aboard!

You can be one of our local partners and/or sponsor and position yourself as such.

Travel and Lifestyle bloggers (small or big), local news media, press, news sites, online or print magazines, we are looking to partner with you all. The more the better. With a big enough momentum (on social media and on the blogosphere), we will be able to help cross-promote each other and as well as reach a bigger audience).

Partnerships are powerful and work as accelerators. The goal of the partnership is to build momentum and to leverage the attention of our combined audience to create meaningful social impact.

Everyone needs something. We have to give what “our partners” need. In return, we get what we need.

Our partners need “interesting stories” to share with their audience and “growth in audience number”. We can bring both to the table. Newsworthy stories, full of inspiration, suspense, adventure, emotions, and social impact!

On our end, we need money and access to your platform. Money for hotels, rental cars, drivers, flights, and coffee (yes, lots of coffee). We’ll need access to your social platform so we can share this spirit of adventure and madness with a large group of India’s young population.

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The 10 Most Beautiful States to Visit in India

• Himachal Pradesh
• Uttar Pradesh
• Gujarat Pradesh
• Jammu and Kashmir
• West Bengal

Out of all the states in India, Rajasthan is the most visited as it is rich in magnificent palaces and forts, colorful festivals and bazaars, and natural reserves such as Ranthambore National Park.

Travelers who are looking for an outdoor adventure can go to Himachal Pradesh or Jammu and Kashmir. Those in search of a more peaceful and relaxing vacation can head to Kerala or Goa.

For visitors interested in learning more about India's culture and history, Punjab and Gujarat Pradesh are the perfect places.

People who are visiting India for the first time should visit the Golden Triangle cities to see the country's most famous sites. India"s Golden Triangle is the country's most popular tourist circuit which includes the national capital of Delhi and the beautiful cities of Agra and Jaipur.

• Rajasthan is home to Ranthambore National Park, the best-known tiger spotting area in India.
• Kerala contains peaceful backwaters, sprawling tea estates, pristine hill stations, and beaches that overlook the Arabian Sea.
• Even though it is one of the smallest states in India, Goa attracts millions of visitors every year with its scenic beaches such as Calangute and Agonda.
• Uttar Pradesh is the most populated state in India and is the location of Agra and the Taj Mahal.
• Jammu and Kashmir are famous for their scenic splendor and snow-capped mountains. The most famous area in this state is Ladakh where you can get the best views of the Himalayas.

1. Rajasthan: a state rich in magnificent palaces and colorful festivals

Rajasthan is an unparalleled tourist destination when it comes to culture and heritage. Stretching over 342,200 square kilometers, the state contains the Thar Desert and is intersected by the Aravalli Mountain Range, which runs diagonally from the northeast to the southwest.

Rajasthan is popularly known as the Land of the Kings as it was once ruled by the many maharajas and their royal families. The state is home to various famous forts including the Amber Fort in Jaipur, the Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur, and Jaisalmer Fort. Here, you can also find Ranthambore National Park, the best tiger spotting location in India.

Jaipur, also known as the Pink City, is the capital of the royal state of Rajasthan and is among the largest cities in India. This city, along with Delhi and Agra, is part of the Golden Triangle tourist circuit.

The most popular places to visit in Jaipur are the ancient palaces and forts. They boast an elaborate architecture that serves as a glorious reminder of their royal heritage. Some of these places include the Amber Fort, City Palace, Hawa Mahal, Nahargarh Fort, and Jaigarh Fort.

Ranthambore National Park

Ranthambore National Park is one of the biggest and most popular national parks in North India. It is 130 kilometers from Jaipur and covers an area of 392 square kilometers. The park is famous for being the best tiger spotting location of India.

Ranthambore National Park contains more than 300 species of plants and animals and visitors can take a jeep safari through the jungle to see the wildlife. Jeep safaris are guided by a park naturalist who will explain details about the park to guests. You will also get a chance to take pictures of the animals in their natural habitat.

Udaipur is located near the southern portion of the mighty Aravalli Hills which separate the city from the Thar Desert. Udaipur is also known as the 'Venice of the East" as it has an abundance of lakes, natural beauty, and breathtaking architecture.

Lake Pichola and Fateh Sagar Lake are the most popular of Udaipur"s man-made lakes. Visitors can explore these lakes by renting a paddleboat or motorboat. The City Palace is a complex that contains 11 incredible palaces and is another must-see attraction here.

In the evening, you can head to Ambrai Ghat to watch the sunset over the water.

Jodhpur is the second-largest city in Rajasthan. It is also known as the Blue City because it looks completely blue from the air due to the blue walls and rooftops of most buildings. The houses in Jodhpur were originally painted to signify that they were occupied by Brahmins, the highest caste in India.

Mehrangarh Fort is one of the city's main attractions. This immense fort was carved from stone and contains a museum with a display of royal memorabilia including about 15,000 items from Maharaja Gaj Singh II"s collection.

Visitors can also check out the famous Clock Tower and the neighboring Sadar Market which sells handicrafts, spices, saris, and fabric.

Jaisalmer is the city where one can witness the perfect combination of desert landscape, architecture, hospitality, and adventure. The city is also known as the "golden city" as it is home to many golden dunes and castles made from yellow sandstone.

Jaisalmer Fort is the city's most famed attraction. The fort contains many hotels, guesthouses, temples, handicraft stores, restaurants, and the former maharaja"s royal palace.

Visitors should also explore the renowned Jain temples and walk through the city"s magnificent historic Havelis or mansions.

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2. Kerala: an enchanting mosaic of coconut groves, wide beaches, and canals

Kerala is a charming South Indian state that contains the famous backwater villages, sprawling tea estates, pristine hill stations, and beaches bordering the Arabian Sea.

Some of the top places to visit in Kerala include the old Portuguese port city of Cochin, the hill station of Munnar, and the twisting canals and villages of Alleppey.

Situated on the south-west coast of India, Kochi (or Cochin) is a bustling commercial port city with an abundance of scenic beauty and dramatic landscapes. The city has been influenced by many different cultures including the Arabs, British, Chinese, and Portuguese.

The Chinese Fishing Nets are the most iconic and photographed spot in Cochin as they are often beautifully-silhouetted against the sea at sunset.

The colonial-era buildings in Fort Kochi are another famous attraction in the city. Here you can eat at modern restaurants, buy beautiful clothes, or check out some spice stores.

Munnar was once the summer resort of British government officials during colonial rule in South India. This hill station is one of the most sought after honeymoon destinations in Kerala with its sprawling tea fields, cardamom plantations, picturesque towns, and winding lanes.

One of the main attractions near Munnar is Eravikulam National Park which is home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and several species of rare butterflies, animals, and birds.

Two kilometers away from Munnar is the Atukkad Waterfalls which are perfect for romantic trips and picnics.

Whether you are on honeymoon, traveling with family, or on a solo trip, Alleppey is the perfect destination to unwind and relax.

The town of Alleppey or Alappuzha is famous for its wide network of palm-lined canals that make up an area called the backwaters. It is also the perfect place to spend some time at rejuvenating Ayurvedic resorts.

Allepey is famous for its houseboat cruises that pass through the serene backwaters, where you can catch glimpses of life in the villages. Alappuzha Beach is a great place to relax under the palm groves and go for a picnic.

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Goa is one of the smallest states in India but with a coastline stretching for over 100 kilometers, it has some of the best beaches. Calangute is one of the more popular beaches due to its length and beauty.

Calangute Beach

Calangute Beach is the longest beach in North Goa, stretching from Candolim to Baga. It is also one of the busiest and most developed beaches in the area. Calangute is full of great restaurants, shacks, and clubs serving cocktails, beer, and seafood.

Here, travelers can enjoy an array of water sport activities including parasailing, surfing, banana boat rides, and jet-skiing. In the evening, the beach comes alive with upbeat parties, dancing, music, and great food.

Punjab is also famously referred to as the 'Land of Five Rivers' because the rivers of Ravi, Beas, Sutlej, Chenab, and Jhelum all run through the state.

Amritsar is the most famous city in Punjab, famous for being the location of the Golden Temple.

The iconic city of Amritsar is the spiritual and cultural center of the Sikh religion. The city is located in northern Punjab around 25 kilometers from the border with Pakistan. Amritsar is the state's main center of business, culture, and transportation.

Amritsar is most famous for being the location of the Golden Temple which is one of the most spiritual places in India. The temple attracts pilgrims from all over the world and looks particularly amazing at night when its large golden dome is illuminated.

5. Himachal Pradesh

Himachal Pradesh is full of clear and serene lakes, lofty mountains, ancient temples, and cheerful people. The state is known for its eco-friendliness, natural scenery, colorful culture, and adventure sports. One of the most famous destinations here is Manali.

Manali is nestled in between the snow-capped slopes of the Pir Panjal and the Dhauladhar mountain ranges. It is one of the most popular hill stations in the country blessed with jaw-dropping views, lush green forests, sprawling meadows, and gushing blue streams.

Solang Valley is the most visited spot in Manali for its breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and its slopes that are great for skiing in the winter. In the summer, the valley becomes a paragliding haven.

6. Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh is situated in the northern part of India, bordering India's capital city of Delhi. It is the most populated state in the country with many historical monuments and places of religious significance. The city of Agra with its world-famous Taj Mahal is located here

Along with Delhi and Jaipur, Agra is one of the cities that forms the Golden Triangle of tourism in India.

Agra is located on the banks of the Yamuna River and is a great place to go to experience India's rich Mughal heritage through architecture, monuments, and local customs.

Agra is home to the Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. This white marble mausoleum is a symbol of love and was built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal.

7. Gujarat Pradesh

Located in between Maharashtra and Rajasthan, Gujarat is home to several architectural marvels and is famous for its vibrant culture and rich heritage. Gujarat contains Ahmedabad, India"s first UNESCO World Heritage City, and is home to diverse Hindu, Muslim, and Jain communities.

Ahmedabad Old City

Ahmedabad, the capital of Gujarat for many centuries, was declared India"s first UNESCO World Heritage City in 2017. It is the perfect destination for tourists who wish to discover the medieval art and architecture of India.

Travelers will find many incredible historical monuments in this city including the Bhadra Fort with its magnificent palace, the Bhadrakali Temple which was built in honor of the Hindu Goddess Bhadra, and the Sarkhej Roza which is a mosque and tomb that showcases the striking Islamic architecture of the Mughal era.

8. Jammu and Kashmir

The state of Jammu and Kashmir is well-known for its scenery, snow-capped mountains, plentiful wildlife, and exquisite monuments. Ladakh is the top destination in this state because it is surrounded by two of the world"s mightiest mountain ranges, the Himalayas and the Karakoram.

Ladakh is the perfect place for hiking and visiting Buddhist monasteries.

Ladakh is the largest of the 10 provinces of Jammu and Kashmir. The province is further divided into Leh (the capital), Nubra, Zanskar, and Rupshu.

The Leh Palace, also known as "Lhachen Palkhar" is one of the most historically rich structures in India. It is nine-stories high and offers panoramic views of the entire town as well as the Stok Kangri and Zanskar mountains of the Himalayan Range.

Leh is a great place to relax in the crisp clean air while enjoying the mountain views of this small and quiet town.

9. Karnataka

Karnataka was ranked 3rd in the list of the most popular tourist locations in India in 2014. The state is home to 3 UNESCO World Heritage Sites including Hampi, Pattadakal, and the Western Ghat Mountains. Its capital, Bangalore, is also a popular tourist destination with Bangalore Palace as its main attraction.

Bangalore, now called Bengaluru, is the capital city of Karnataka. It is the third-largest city and one of the most livable areas in India. Bangalore is especially loved for its pleasant weather, beautiful parks, and lakes. The city has earned several nicknames including the Silicon Valley of India, the Pub Capital of India, and the Air Conditioned City.

Bangalore Palace was built by Chamaraja Wodeyar in 1887 and its design was inspired by England"s Windsor Castle. The Tudor-style architecture of the palace is showcased in its fortified towers, arches, green lawns, and elegant woodcarvings.

10. West Bengal

The beautiful state of West Bengal is blessed with mesmerizing mountains, lush mangrove forests, ancient temples, and magnificent British monuments. Its cosmopolitan capital of Kolkata is home to the Victoria Memorial, a museum that holds a collection of items from the British colonial period.

Kolkata, also known as Calcutta, is the capital of West Bengal. While the city used to be known for its slums and poverty, it is now widely referred to as the cultural capital of India. Kolkata is famous as being a place of creativity that has produced many famous works of Indian literature, art, cinema, music, and theater.

Named after England's Queen Victoria, the Victoria Memorial is a huge white-marble colonial-era building and museum. Here, visitors will see a collection of impressive paintings, sculptures, and books.

Kolkata is also well-known for its street food and immigrant Chinese population.

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Himachal Pradesh

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North India

• Himachal Pradesh
• Uttarakhand
• Uttarpradesh

South India

• Andhra Pradesh
• Maharashtra

Central India

• Madhya Pradesh
• Chhattisgarh

Union Territories

• Andaman and Nicobar Islands
• Jammu Kashmir
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Popular India Tourism Destinations by Interest

• Hill Station
• Yoga and Ayurveda

Adventure Tourism

• Motor Biking
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• Chadar Trek
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• The Park Calangute
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• Aman-i-Khas, Ranthambore
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INDIAN STATES

Travel to the 27 vibrant states in the multilingual, multicultural and pluralistic Union of India. Each of the Indian states has something exclusive to offer to wide-eyed tourists who flock throughout the year. India is a major travel and tourist destination because of its rich and versatile travel experience in terms of recreational and adventure activities, historic and modern tourist sites, cultural and spiritual insight. Travel to India is like exploring its treasure trove. The priceless monuments like the Taj Mahal and the Imambara attract tourists to India besides revealing its rich architectural and cultural heritage.

There are several pilgrim tours to the Indian states that are of tourist interest. Devotees and tourists travel to the sacred shrines that dot the holy land of India. For the tourists who love nature, animal and adventure the various Indian states offer wildlife tours. Travelling to the incomparable Indian states offers variety of sights, sounds and smells. Tourists are spellbound by travelling to the hill resorts and beaches. Holiday tours, picnics, vacations are the best spent in India. Amongst the Indian states most travelled by tourists are Goa, Kerala, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Sikkim, Uttarakhand, Bihar, Karnataka and Arunachal Pradesh.

STATES OF INDIA

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Famous Tourist Places in India - State Wise

India is a very famous tourist destination. There is a lot of potential to increase the tourism industry in India. Around 9% of India’s GDP is contributed by the tourism industry. Approximately 9% of the population in India is employed in the tourism industry. This article will share some insights into the famous tourist places in India.

Some of the most famous tourist places in the state of Tamil Nadu are listed below:

• Meenakshi Amman Temple at Madurai
• Rameshwaram
• Brihadeeswara Temple at Thanjavur
• Marina Beach at Chennai
• Shore Temple at Mahabalipuram
• Kodaikanal Lake
• Anamalai Tiger Reserve
• Nilgiri Mountain Railway Line
• Nataraja Temple at Chidambaram
• Monuments at Mamallapuram

The above-mentioned places are some of the most important tourist attractions in Tamil Nadu. Among all the states in India, Tamil Nadu received the highest number of domestic tourists in India. Around 1.23 million foreign tourists visited Tamil Nadu in 2020, making it the second most popular tourist destination among foreign tourists.

Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh is a very important tourist destination for people following Hinduism and Buddhism. Some of the most famous tourist places in the state of Uttar Pradesh are listed below:

• Prayagraj Kumbh Mela
• Kashi Vishwanath Temple at Varanasi
• Sankat Mochan Temple at Varanasi
• Ganga Aarti at Varanasi
• Fatehpur Sikri
• Dudhwa National Park
• Jhansi Fort
• Okhla Bird Sanctuary
• Anand Bhawan Museum

In 2020, Uttar Pradesh was the 2nd most popular tourist destination among domestic tourists. Around 86 million domestic tourists and 0.89 million foreign tourists visited Uttar Pradesh in 2020. Uttar Pradesh was the 3rd most popular state among foreign tourists.

The state of Karnataka is the third most popular state for tourism among domestic tourists in India. Some of the most famous tourist places in Karnataka are given below:

• National Parks such as Bandipur National Park, Nagarhole National Park, and Bannerghatta National Park.
• UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as the ruins of Vijayanagara Empire at Hampi, Pattadakal.
• Rock cut temples at Aihole and Badami.
• Hoysala temples at Belur and Helebidu.
• Shivanasamudra Falls
• There are many popular beaches at Karwar, Malpe, Gokarna, Murudeshwar, Mangalore, etc.
• Karakala, Mudabidri, and Shravanabelagola are important sites for people following Jainism.
• There are many important temples of the Hindu religion such as the Sringeri temple, Kollur Mookambika temple, Dharmasthala temple, and Kukke Subramanya temple.

In 2020, Karnataka was the 3rd most popular tourist destination among domestic tourists. Around 77 million domestic tourists visited the state of Karnataka in 2020.

Andhra Pradesh

Around 70 million, i.e. 11.6% of the total domestic tourists visited Andhra Pradesh in 2020. Andhra Pradesh is the 4th most popular state for tourism among domestic tourists in India.

Some of the most famous tourist places in Andhra Pradesh are listed below:

• There are many important pilgrim destinations such as Tirumala Tirupati Temple, Simhachalam Temple in Visakhapatnam, Annavaram Temple, Srikalahasti, Kanaka Durga Temple, Buddhist centres such as Nagarjunakonda, Amaravati etc.
• Some of the popular hills and valleys are Horsley Hills, Papi Hills, Araku Valley, etc.
• Some of the popular caves depicting the popular Indian rock-cut architecture are Belum Caves, Undavalli Caves, Borra Caves, etc.

Maharashtra

In 2020, around 1.26 million foreign tourists visited Maharashtra making it the most popular state for tourism among foreign tourists visiting India. 17.6% of the total foreign tourists visited Maharashtra in 2020.

Some of the most famous tourist places in Maharashtra are given below:

• Gateway of India, Mumbai
• Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus in Mumbai
• Shree Siddhivinayak Ganpati Temple in Mumbai
• Colaba Causeway in Mumbai
• Crawford Market in Mumbai
• Trimbakeshwar Jyotirling Mandir – located in Nashik district
• Bhaja Caves – Pune
• Ajanta Caves
• Elephanta Caves
• Tadoba-Andhari National Park
• Sanjay Gandhi National Park
• Shaniwar Wada – historical fortification in the city of Pune, built by Marathas
• Lohagad Fort – situated close to Lonavala
• Sinhagad Fort
• Kanheri Caves
• Lonar Lake – located at Lonar in Buldhana district, Maharashtra
• Aga Khan Palace

Delhi ranks in the topmost position among cities in India in terms of the visit by foreign tourists. 9.5% of the total foreign tourists who visited India chose Delhi as the tourist destination in 2020.

Some of the famous tourist places in Delhi are given below:

• National War Memorial
• Akshardham Temple
• Rashtrapati Bhawan
• Parliament of India
• Qutub Minar
• Lotus Temple
• Juma Masjid
• Humayun’s Tomb
• Lodhi Garden
• Purana Qila
• Birla Mandir
• National Rail Museum
• National Zoological Park
• National Gallery of Modern Art
• Khan Market

West Bengal

Some of the famous tourist places in West Bengal are given below:

• Victoria Memorial
• Sundarban National Park
• Indian Museum
• Howrah Bridge
• Darjeeling Himalayan Railway
• Tiger Hill, Darjeeling
• Dakshineswar Kali Temple
• Jaldapara National Park
• Batasia Loop
• Gorumara National Park
• Science City
• Yiga Choeling Monastery
• Zoological Park, Darjeeling
• Marble Palace
• Eden Gardens

Out of all the foreign tourists who visited India, 6.5% of them visited West Bengal in 2020. 0.46 million foreign tourists visited West Bengal in 2020.

Rajasthan is another important tourist destination in India. Some of the famous tourist places are listed below:

• Ranthambore National Park
• Amber Palace
• City Palace, Jaipur
• Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur
• Jantar Mantar, Jaipur
• Mehrangarh Fort Museum and Trust, Jodhpur
• Jal Mahal, Jaipur
• Jaisalmer Fort
• Sariska Tiger Reserve
• Chittorgarh Fort
• Jag Mandir, Udaipur

Some of the famous tourist places in Kerala are given below:

• Bekal Beach
• Chottanikkara Bhagavathy Temple
• Guruvayur Temple
• Shree Padmanabhaswamy Temple
• Jatayu Earth’s Centre
• Sakthan Thampuran Palace
• Mullaperiyar Dam
• Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary
• Attukad Waterfalls
• Sree Krishna Swamy Temple, Ambalapuzha
• Lakkam Waterfalls, Munnar
• Thusharagiri Waterfalls
• Many places in Kochi
• Pookode Lake

Famous Tourist Places in India – Northeast

Northeast India is a very popular tourist destination in India. Some of the interesting tourist destinations in the Northeast states of India are given below.

Arunachal Pradesh

Some of the most famous tourist places of Arunachal Pradesh are given below:

• Tawang – The mighty Brahmaputra river emerges from the foothills of Pasighat under the name Siang or Dihang. Pasighat is the oldest town in Arunachal Pradesh founded in 1911 A.D. by the British Raj.

Some of the most famous tourist places of Assam are given below:

• Brahmaputra River – One of the major rivers of India. It flows through China, India, and Bangladesh.
• Kamakhya Temple
• Kaziranga National Park – This is a World Heritage Site. It has the highest density of tigers. It hosts two-thirds of the world’s one-horned rhinoceros.

Some of the most famous tourist places of Tripura are listed below:

• Ujjayanta Palace
• Rudrasagar Lake
• Tripura Sundari Temple

Some of the most famous tourist places of Sikkim are listed below:

• Changu Lake

Some of the must-visit tourist attractions of Mizoram are given below:

• Vantawng Falls

Some of the most famous tourist places of Nagaland are given below:

Some of the most famous tourist places of Manipur are given below:

• Khwairamband Bazar/IMA Market
• Loktak Lake

Some of the most famous tourist places of Meghalaya are listed below:

• Cherrapunji
• Shillong – the capital of Meghalaya. It is known as the “Scotland of the East.”
• Mawphlang Sacred Grove

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• The 10 Most Beautiful States...

The Most Beautiful States in India

With its diverse natural and urban landscapes , and cultures and cuisines, India is a country that never ceases to amaze. No doubt that when confronted with this vast array of wonderful travel opportunities, choosing the right place to visit is one of the most difficult tasks. From beaches and hill stations to religious sites and historical monuments, India has it all.

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Referred to as ‘God’s Own Country’, Kerala is one of India’s prettiest states. It is home to some of the country’s most stunning beaches, including Kovalam, Muzhappilangad, Varakala and many more. It also boasts breathtaking hill stations, gripping waterfalls, a plethora of historical places and monuments, and a host of national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. For those in search of a serene hill station, Munnar is always a good option. In any case, the very peaceful atmosphere of Kerala never ceases to amaze.

Known as the ‘Land of Kings’, Rajasthan is a state full of stories of wars and victories, romance, misfortunes and glories. These folkloric tales of love and heroism are physically reflected in Rajasthan’s many monuments, magnificent palaces and forts. Rajasthan is also home to the vast Thar Desert and its world-renowned Sam Sand Dunes, as well as an array of rare wildlife. Must-see destinations include Jaipur, Udaipur and Jodhpur among many others.

Known around the world for its beautiful beaches, Goa is a destination not to be missed when visiting India. Sunsets at the golden-sand beaches are simply incredible, and the local cuisine, which includes many seafood dishes, is mouthwatering. Goa also offers travellers the opportunity to engage in many water sports, such as windsurfing and water-skiing. This is one of India’s smallest states, but one with an old town, and a very unique ethnicity and culture. While wandering across Goa, you are likely to come across Hindu temples, Portuguese churches and wildlife sanctuaries.

Famed for its delicious cuisine, ethnic and religious diversity, and rich history – especially its Sikh religious history (its home to the iconic Golden Temple) – Punjab is the perfect destination for those looking for a taste of local culture and stories of ancient empires. To experience true Punjab culture, head to the villages. Travellers should also aim to attend the flag lowering ceremony which takes place at the Wagah border.

Himachal Pradesh

Himachal Pradesh, the ‘Land of Gods’, is famous for its awe-inspiring Himalayan natural landscapes and hill stations. Dharamsala, Manali and Kullu are some of the most visited destinations in this hilly state, offering pristine natural beauty. In this state, travellers can engage in a number of outdoor activities, including paragliding, rock climbing, mountain biking, heli-skiing and much more.

Uttar Pradesh

What is India’s architectural answer to love? The Taj Mahal in Agra, of course. What about spirituality and salvation? Located along the Ganges river, the answer lies in Varanasi, India’s oldest city. As such, Uttar Pradesh is one of India’s prettiest states, and is home to major historical, religious and architectural Indian destinations. Two of the most important pilgrimage sites for Hindus are also found in Uttar Pradesh: the ancient cities of Ayodhya and Allahabad.

Located on India’s western coast, millions of tourists flock to Gujarat ever year to take in its rich culture and history, while visiting the state’s many archaeological sites, beaches and temples. As the one and only home of the Asiatic lion, Gujarat is considered to be one of Asia’s most protected areas. It is also the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi.

Jammu and Kashmir

Even seasoned travellers will admit that Jammu and Kashmir, with its emerald green valleys, snow-capped mountains and stunning blue skies, is home to some of the world’s most spectacular places. Known for its aesthetic beauty, this mountainous state keeps attracting visitors in search of quaint villages, amazing waterfalls and gardens, and lush green valleys. There are also beautiful historic mosques and temples to visit, as well as Hindu shrines, forts and castles.

With its white waterfalls, mist-covered hills and verdant forests, Karnataka encompasses some of the most diverse landscapes in the world. Coorg is a must-visit destination for those in search of a breathtaking hill station. Karnataka’s most popular tourist destinations include Mysore (the ‘City of Palaces’), Gokarna (a place where travellers can find a long stretch of pristine beaches) and Hampi (a UNESCO World Heritage Site).

West Bengal

Home to a plethora of grand and elaborate mansions, it’s no surprise that West Bengal’s state capital, Kolkata , is known as the ‘Cultural Capital of India’, the ‘City of Palaces’ and the ‘City of Joy’. The city also boasts a vibrant arts, film and theatre scene, while the state of West Bengal itself has some of the most incredible natural landscapes in the world.

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Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

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The 15 most spectacular places to visit in India

Dec 11, 2023 • 14 min read

Expect fairy-tale-like drama against a desert backdrop in magical Jaisalmer, Rajasthan © Andrii Lutsyk/ Getty Images

India’s astonishing variety of sights has to be seen to be believed. Travelers have devoted lifetimes to exploring the famous places and forgotten corners of this incredible country, driven onwards by the certainty that there’s always more to see.

Mughal palaces, towering Hindu temples, mountain monasteries, lost kingdoms, cultured cities, and genteel hill stations in the foothills of the Himalayas all jostle for attention in a country that is proudly shaking off the legacy of colonialism and repositioning itself as a global superpower. With such incredible diversity on offer, there’s just one question – where do you start?

Well, our advice is to not take on too much during a single visit. Pick an area – the tropical south perhaps, or the northern plains, or the mountain valleys of the Himalayas – and give yourself time to pause and soak up the atmosphere as you work through your must-see list .

Wherever you go, you’re guaranteed a mind-expanding and exhilarating blast of color, soul-soaring splendor, earth-shaking history and moments of pure serenity. Equal parts magic and mayhem, this mix is what makes traveling to India such an intense and addictive experience.

While this was no easy list to compile, we’re proud to present our pick of the ten best places to visit in India.

1. Agra, Uttar Pradesh

Best for romantics and fans of Mughal history

At the top of everyone’s bucket list, the Taj Mahal is as glorious as people imagine it would be – a magnificent monument to lost love, executed in pearl-white marble. Views of the world’s most beautiful building framed by a Mughal archway or floating above the misty Yamuna River will be one of the defining moments of any trip to India.

But there’s more to the former Mughal capital than the Taj. Add on a couple of days so you can visit the architecturally stunning tomb of  Emperor Akbar , his rose-red sandstone former capital at Fatehpur Sikri and sprawling Agra Fort , one of India’s most epic fortifications. Thronged by millions of visitors, Agra is not always relaxing, but it’s eternally fascinating.

2. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

Best for intense spirituality

There are few places as beguiling and bewitching as the sacred Hindu city of Varanasi . Millennia-old death rituals play out daily at the cremation ghats that line the bank of the sacred River Ganges, while the maze-like alleyways of the nearby old town reveal dizzying surprises at every turn. We defy anyone to visit without experiencing some internal soul-searching about their place in the universe.

Be ready for some challenges. The hard-edged realities of life and death and the inequalities that continue to cause hardship for many in India are obvious on the streets of the world’s oldest living city. But there are also moments of gentleness – rise at dawn and wander the ghats (riverside steps) and you’ll see Varanasi at its most spiritual, with its attention focused on the sacred river, before the tourist bustle changes the mood.

Planning tip: The best way to appreciate Varanasi’s famous ghats is from a rowboat. Boatmen offer their services from first light at boat stations along the west bank of the Ganges, providing views of a riverfront that has changed only superficially in seven centuries.

3. Mumbai, Maharashtra

Best for urban explorers and Bollywood hopefuls

Mumbai is the perfect place to take the pulse of modern India. The most densely populated city in the subcontinent is home to Bollywood film stars, enterprising market vendors, bankers and executives rushing to work in offices, and fishing families who can trace their origins back to the days when this mighty metropolis was just a humble village.

To understand more about the disparities of life in contemporary Mumbai, take a socially responsible tour through the city’s huge and disadvantaged Dharavi district with Reality Tours & Travel ; 80% of the profits go back to social projects providing opportunities for those left behind by Mumbai’s push for success.

The city’s can’t-miss excursion is the boat trip to the 1500-year-old, UNESCO World Heritage-listed rock-cut temples of Elephanta Island , but fantastic street food is the city’s great leveler. Don’t leave without sampling Mumbai's signature snack, bhel poori – puffed rice and fried dough with lentils, onions, herbs and savory chutneys, best sampled on the beach at Chowpatty or Juhu.

Detour: With time to spare in Mumbai, head to the northern suburbs, where Sanjay Gandhi National Park protects a sprawl of dry forest, home to leopards, deer, monkeys and serene Buddhist cave temples.

Best for an extraordinary taste of Tibet

In the far northwest of India, sheltered from the monsoon by the rain shadow of the Himalayas, the former Buddhist kingdom of Ladakh is culturally and geographically closer to western Tibet than anywhere in India. In this high-altitude moonscape, towering Tibetan monasteries melt into a landscape of barren rock and wind-sculpted hoodoos (don’t miss fabulous Hemis and Thiksey on the road linking Ladakh to Himachal Pradesh ). 

Most visitors start in the atmospheric capital, Leh , before roaming to neighboring valleys for homestay treks and trips to view turquoise salt lakes and colorful masked dances at ancient monasteries. Ladakh wasn't touched by China’s Cultural Revolution, so this is perhaps the closest independent travelers can come to experiencing the original culture of Tibet.

Planning tip: Getting to Ladakh is half the fun. Flights run to Leh even in the depths of winter, but the most enjoyable way in is overland, by road from either Srinagar in Kashmir or Manali in Himachal Pradesh. Buses and shared 4WDs run as long as the passes are open from June to the end of September, or you can tackle the route on a rented Enfield motorcycle.

5. Kolkata, West Bengal 

Best for culture vultures

The capital of colonial British India until 1911, Kolkata (formerly Calcutta) is India’s third-biggest metropolis and the country's intellectual and artistic capital. Spend a few days exploring the energetic bazaars, cultured museums and British-era landmarks, and you’ll soon fall in love with Kolkata’s irrepressible energy.

To really get to know Kolkata, sign up for a Bengali cooking course and visit the revered temple at Kalighat , where the goddess Kali is appeased with sacrifices. With more time to spare, book an overnight wildlife-watching tour to the nearby Sundarbans Tiger Reserve , a legendary stalking ground for royal Bengal tigers.

Planning tip: Try to time your visit to coincide with the festival of Durga Puja in September or October, when vividly colorful effigies of the goddess are displayed in pandals (ceremonial tents) all over the city.   

6. Jaisalmer, Rajasthan

Best for desert drama

The desert state of Rajasthan shows India at its most romantic and soft-filtered. Expect a mirage of camel caravans, ornate palaces, mighty forts, turbaned traders and intense colors, set against a backdrop of shifting desert sands. It’s unbelievably photogenic, but also firmly on the tourist map, so expect to share the experience with a crowd.

The pink-sandstone monuments of Jaipur , the ice-white lakeside palaces of Udaipur , and views of blue-hued Jodhpur from its lofty fort are all stunning experiences, but the city that delivers the biggest jolt to the senses is Jaisalmer , seeming sculpted from the living rock of the desert.

Its tangled lanes, towering fortress and beautifully ornate haveli (traditional houses) could have been plucked from the pages of One Thousand and One Nights , and the surrounding desert is the evocative setting for overnight camel safaris.

Planning tip: While it is possible to stay inside the fortified city, visitor numbers are having an impact on Jaisalmer’s historic heart. We recommend staying outside the walls instead – there are plenty of hotels and guesthouses within strolling distance of the fort.

7. The Kerala Backwaters

Best for lovers of slow travel

After the dusty, densely populated northern plains, tropical South India offers a lusher, more laid-back travel experience. The quintessential trip here is a slow-paced canal cruise through the emerald-green backwaters of Kerala , a 900-mile network of languid, coconut-fringed waterways, offering views of an ever-changing tableaux of South Indian life.

Hire a traditional houseboat in Alappuzha for a multiday trip, then settle in for a succulent Keralan seafood curry prepared by your personal chef as the sunset blushes over shimmering waters and silhouetted palm fronds. Post-cruise, it’s just a short hop up the coast to historic Kochi (Cochin) , with its cantilevered fishing nets and Kathakali dance theaters.

8. Bodhgaya, Bihar

Best for budding Buddhists

As the birthplace of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Sikhism (plus countless smaller faiths), India is defined by sacred geography. Even here, however, few places resonate more powerfully than the Bodhi tree where Prince Siddhartha Gautama achieved enlightenment to become the Buddha (Awakened One).

The town that has grown up around this sacred spot is home to dozens of Tibetan and Southeast Asian–style temples and monasteries, with a busy program of Buddhist teachings and courses. It’s the ideal destination for any spiritual explorer.

To get a feel for Bodhgaya ’s rhythms, come early to the Mahabodhi complex and settle in beside chanting Tibetan pilgrims to meditate on the nature of impermanence. Travel experiences don’t get much more profound than this.

Planning tip: Bodhgaya is just one stop on the so-called "Buddhist circuit," taking in key locations from the life of the historical Buddha. Local buses run to nearby Rajgir, the site of one of the first Buddhist monasteries, and Nalanda's ancient Buddhist university complex.  

9. Darjeeling, West Bengal

Best for a premium cup of tea with a view

Fanned by the cool breezes of the eastern Himalayas, surrounded by manicured tea estates and basking in front of epic Himalayan views, Darjeeling is easy to fall for.

For a perfect day, watch the dawn break over 8586m (20,169ft) Kangchenjunga, learn the difference between first-flush and white teas on a plantation tour, linger over an afternoon cuppa at the  Windamere Hotel , then learn about the Tibetan experience at the Tibetan Refugee Self-Help Centre .

The classiest way to arrive is via the nostalgic, narrow-gauge toy train ; book tickets in advance and check to see if the steam service is running (the diesel train follows the same route, but has less charm). Don’t miss the Buddhist gompas (monasteries) dotted around the city. Below Darjeeling on the fringes of Ghum, historic Yiga Choeling Gompa has a special magic.

Planning tip: Darjeeling isn’t the only interesting stop in the area. Shared 4WDs buzz from Darjeeling to Kalimpong , another historic township with colorful Buddhist monasteries, Himalayan views and pretty flower nurseries. 

10. Hampi, Karnataka

Best for a full immersion in history

Between the 14th and 16th centuries CE, the capital of the Vijayanagar empire at Hampi was home to half a million people, but this ancient metropolis was almost completely abandoned, leaving 3700 stone monuments scattered across a surreal plain of boulders.

This is a place to linger, strolling between the boulders to find carved masonry, forgotten shrines and the handsome remains of some of South India’s most dramatic stone temples.

Glance up as you wander and you’ll see rock climbers tackling bouldering routes using chisel marks made by ancient masons. Rent a motorcycle or scooter and you can roam further afield, taking in the hilltop temple marking the spot where the monkey god Hanuman first met Lord Rama.

Planning tip: Hampi is a short bus ride from the town of Hosapete – get here by overnight train from Goa’s beaches, historic Hyderabad or the cosmopolitan southern city of Bengaluru .

11. Arunachal Pradesh

Best for stepping off the map

Tucked away near Bangladesh, the eight Northeast States – Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura and Sikkim – are India’s wild frontier. Until the 1990s, this region of rugged mountain valleys was mostly off-limits to foreigners, and visitor numbers are still small – people who travel here earn the right to call themselves proper explorers. 

Sikkim is the most famous destination in the Northeast States, but we’d encourage you east towards the forested foothills and jagged mountains of Arunachal Pradesh , where tribal communities follow a diverse range of traditional belief systems, from the Buddhist Monpa people of Tawang to the animist Apatani people of the Ziro valley. 

Planning tip: Travel takes a bit of effort in Arunachal Pradesh; you’ll need to apply for a permit to enter the state, and local transport is patchy. By far the easiest way to explore is with a chartered 4WD and driver (easily arranged in Guwahati in Assam).  

12. Amritsar, Punjab

Best for experiencing the power of devotion

India has pilgrimage destinations to spare, but few come close to the vibrant energy of the Golden Temple in Amritsar. The most sacred site for the Sikh religion is a gleaming jewel box, floating in a mirror-like sacred pool, thronged day and night by an unbelievable mass of pilgrims. You don’t have to be spiritually inclined to feel its powerful rhythms. 

Joining devotees at the Sri Harmandir Sahib – the gold-paneled shrine at the heart of the complex – is incredibly moving. Staying overnight in the pilgrims' hostels that flank the temple compound only adds to the intensity. A donation is much appreciated for accommodation if possible, though pilgrims of all means will be accommodated if space is available. You can also sit down for meals at the temple langar (kitchen), which provides cost-free nourishment to a staggering 100,000 people per day (again, a donation is appreciated if you have the means).

Planning tip: Don’t limit your explorations to the Golden Temple – the surrounding bazaars buzz with energy and atmosphere, with vendors selling everything from embroidered chappals (sliders) to brass and polished steel pots and pans.   

13. Mysuru (Mysore), Karnataka

Best for feeling like a Maharaja

The atmospheric South Indian city of Mysuru has multiple charms: towering temples, one of India’s most evocative marketplaces, and the almost impossibly extravagant crib that is Mysuru Palace , the ancestral home of the Wadiyar maharajas. No building conjures up the extravagant lives of India’s royal rulers quite so vividly – every room is a fantasy, every ornament an heirloom. 

Around the palace are busy bazaars, rewarding museums and a string of Hindu temples in the classic Dravidian (Southern Indian) architectural style. Devote several days to wandering the streets, hiking up to the Sri Chamundeshwari Temple on Chamundi Hill and feasting on fiery vegetarian  thalis (plate meals) in Mysuru’s restaurants.  

14. Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh

Best for tiger encounters

The national parks of Madhya Pradesh are some of the best places on the planet to get close to royal Bengal tigers. Seeing one of these striped superstars loping out of the jungle will stay with you for a lifetime – as well as leaving you heartbroken at the thought of how few tigers still survive in the wild.

Everyone has their favorite tiger reserve, but we rate Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve near Jabalpur for the density of wildlife in its central Tala range. Around 70 tigers roam these dry forests, alongside leopards, monkeys, deer and gaur – India’s gigantic wild buffalo. There’s a high likelihood of sightings if you devote several days to 4WD safaris (elephant safaris should be avoided as riding can be harmful to these vulnerable animals). 

Planning tip: The best time to see tigers is first thing in the morning – safaris start at 5:30am to catch tigers before they stake out a shady spot in the undergrowth to sleep through the heat of the day. 

15. Madurai, Tamil Nadu

Best for religious splendor

South India's Hindu temples are a joyous celebration of the divine, decorated inside and out with vividly colorful depictions of deities and supernatural beings, both fearsome and sublime. In the southern city of Madurai , the towering gopurams (gateway towers) of the Meenakshi Amman Temple provide a three-dimensional guide to the main deities of the Hindu pantheon.

The current temple was constructed in the 17th century, but the site has been sacred to Meenakshi, the queen of the Pandya kingdom and an incarnation of the goddess Parvati, for at least 2000 years. Come early in the morning to watch sunrise bring the temple to life, then pop to the nearest branch of Murugan Idli Shop for some of the south’s best idli (steamed rice and lentil cakes).  

Detour: A short bus or train ride from Madurai, Tiruchirappalli – aka Trichy – is another top spot for temple enthusiasts. The looming Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple is one of the world’s largest Hindu shrines, covering 155 acres (63 hectares) and topped by 21 deity-encrusted towers. More temples crown the rocky outcrop at the heart of the city, offering epic views over the rooftops.  

This article was first published March 2022 and updated December 2023

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The 23 best places to go in India in 2023 

By Condé Nast Traveller

If 2022 was the year of revenge travel, let 2023 encourage you to slow down and soak it all in. From immersive art exhibitions to quaint homestays and sexy boutique hotels that offer truly local experiences, our list of the best places to visit in India in 2023 will inspire you to engage with local communities, and travel slower but deeper, in more meaningful, magical ways.

Here, are the 23 destinations – as vetted and recommended by  Condé Nast Traveller editors. And don’t forget to visit our global list of international destinations to visit next year – the best places to visit in 2023 , vetted by  Condé Nast Traveller editors, plus ideas for  places to visit in the UK ,  places to go in the USA , and top spots in Spain . Happy travels.

Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Go for : A new island hotel and amazing outdoor adventures

For the longest time, a trip to the Andamans meant picking between homestays or the only premium boutique hotel on the island. That’s changed in the past few years, with resorts like Taj Exotica Resort & Spa and Jalakara . The most recent entrant to the mix is Tilar Siro , a CGH Earth outpost in Havelock Island (now, Swaraj Dweep). The 25-key property is breezy, green and immersive. You can learn about the island’s history and food, take scuba diving courses and enjoy guided walks through the dense rainforests. There’s a lot to do beyond Havelock, including sea safaris at Cinque Island and kayaking expeditions with stargazing thrown in. Take a day trip to Barren Island to visit India’s only active volcano or take a ferry to Little Andaman Island for pristine beaches and lagoons.  Arundhati Ail

Arittapatti, Tamil Nadu

Go for : Tamil Nadu’s first Biodiversity Heritage Site

A first for the state, Arittapatti village – roughly 230kms from Coimbatore – has been declared Tamil Nadu’s first and India’s 35th Biodiversity Heritage Site. As green spaces across the globe shrink, this move by the state government is a step towards a greener future and an attempt to preserve the unique landscape of rocky hills that supports 72 lakes, 200 natural spring ponds, and three reservoirs, apart from the 75 species of birds, raptor species, megalithic structures and rock-cut temples that date back 2,000 years in the area. While the state government prepares to build the area’s tourism potential, go before the crowds surge, to enjoy birdsong, gushing streams and a biodiverse ecosystem.  Smitha Menon

Go for: Cruises on the Brahmaputra River

Cruises across the mighty Brahmaputra River and an exploration of its riverine culture has thrown a new spotlight on Assam’s culture, history and biodiversity. These river cruises are offered both by Assam Tourism and by private operators like the Assam Bengal Navigation Company which have upped the ante on luxury travel with vessels that encapsulate the heritage and culture of the region and tours that provide a window into the history, culture and crafts of the state. The latest of these is the soon-to-be-launched Ganga Vilas Cruise, the world’s longest cruise from Varanasi to Assam via Bangladesh which will embark on its maiden voyage in January 2023. These cruises offer a unique perspective of the land from water and provide access to islands and national parks and include craft tours, local food experiences, tea garden trails, village walks, visits to age-old temples and a chance to see the Great Indian One Horned Rhino in the wild.  Diya Kohli

Arunachal Pradesh

Go for : The newfound accessibility, Ziro Festival, untouched nature

Lauren Burvill , CN Traveller

Olivia Morelli

CNT Editors

CNT Editors , CN Traveller

Arunachal Pradesh is the ideal destination for a retreat into silence. Jaw-dropping sunsets take over the valleys here, more than 500 species of birds call the wooded landscape of this state their home and the gush of a hidden waterfall will be the only sound to break your chain of thought. Until now, the state’s natural beauty remained unexplored for the lack of accessibility. But in November 2022, the inauguration of the Donyi Polo airport opened gateways to the possibility of a novel getaway. With this airport located in Hollongi, some 15 km from Itanagar, travellers finally have direct access to the capital city and a new entry point into the state. Visit Tawang Monastery – the largest monastery in India – while you’re here, trek through the untouched fields of Bomdila or make plans to drop by for the Ziro Festival for a weekend of music and eco-conscious living against the stunning Himalayan backdrop.  Ria Gupta

Bengaluru, Karnataka

Go for : The Museum of Art & Photography, benne dosa, Cubbon Park promenade

Namma Bengaluru has something new to offer you every time you visit it. If you are an art lover, the city’s latest offering, the Museum of Art & Photography – which will go public in early 2023 – will open up a whole new world encompassing photographs, ancient and modern art, sculptures and textiles and more. Let the colours of contemporary artist Jangarh Singh Shyam’s  Portrait of a Barasingha  wash over you or marvel at the intricacies of the bronze sculptures from decades ago at the cultural space which is located in the heart of the city on Kasturba Road. Once you have had your art fill, head to the Airlines Hotel less than 500 metres away and enjoy a plate of crispy masala dosa with piping hot sambar, coconut chutney and a freshly brewed tumbler of filter coffee – all under a lush green tree canopy. Burn all of it off with a leisurely walk at Cubbon Park just a few metres away and head to the good old Blossom Book House or its newer, hipper contender, Champaca to pick up your next read.  Sneha Kanchan

Belur and Halebid, Karnataka

Go for : The sacred temples of the Hoysala Empire – India’s official nomination for the  UNESCO World Heritage Site tag in 2022-23

Why should you visit 12th-century temples in 2023? For starters, these magnificent structures about 200kms from Bengaluru are intricately carved and shockingly well-preserved reminders of the Hoysala dynasty, a secular family – that receives less attention from history lovers as compared to the Vijayanagar Empire’s Hampi – that ruled across the Deccan region from 1006 to about 1346 CE. The Hoysaleswara temple in Halebid, which loosely translates to old capital or ruined city, demonstrates how the rulers of yore encouraged the intermingling of religions and ideologies: the structure follows the Shaivism tradition but includes themes and motifs from Vaishnavism and Shaktism, along with images from Jainism. Inside, painstakingly hand-carved sculptures depict scenes from the Ramayana, the Mahabharata and the Bhagavata Purana. Along with this temple, the nearby Kesava temple in Belur has also been proposed to be listed under the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The ensembles blend Dravidian-style design with Bhumija and Nagara traditions of temple architecture from central and northern India, respectively.  SM

Go for : New hotels and restaurants and the Goa Carnival

Spanish tapas at Mystras in Assagao, a taste of spiced Indian fare at Juju in Colva and cocktails and mushroom cakes at Fig & Maple – these are only some of the new delights on Goa’s burgeoning food and drink scene. Helming the revolution of South Indian cuisine in Goa is the newly opened Hosa, a Portuguese-styled outpost set up by Rohit Khattar of Indian Accent, Comorin and Koloman. With JW Marriott’s new property slated to pop up in Vagator next year, there’s ample to keep you hooked to the sunny state. For a taste of the spirit of Goa, make sure you witness the processions of the Goa Carnival 2023. Come February , the streets of Panjim, Mapusa, Margao and Vasco will come alive with dancers, acrobats, musicians and the escorts that tail the carnival’s King Momo. It’s the time of year when pranksters come knocking on doors, street plays celebrate the art of mockery and everyone unites for the love of food, drink and merriment. Don’t leave without taking back a souvenir in the form of one of the many homegrown spirits coming out of the state.  RG

Hanle, Ladakh

Go for : India’s first Dark Sky Reserve, Hanle Monastery

Experience a starry night like never before at Hanle, a picturesque hamlet in Ladakh. Hanle is set to be the main character in India’s astronomical tourism story as the site for the country’s first Dark Sky Reserve which will be operational by early 2023. Situated 4,500 metres above sea level as part of the Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary, the reserve aims to lower light pollution for better observation of the inky night sky dotted with stars and planets. Once there, do not forget to visit the 17th-century Hanle Monastery located on a hilltop for some inner peace and a panoramic view of the village and its unique landscape.  SK

Jaipur, Rajasthan

Go for : Safaris, the Jaipur Literature Festival and new hotel and bar openings

Safari enthusiasts can now go on a leopard game drive just 30 minutes away from Jaipur city. In May 2022, the Rajasthan state government opened up the Amargarh Leopard Reserve, which sprawls across 1,524 hectares and is home to 16 cats and 250 species of birds. Besides the leopard, keep your eyes peeled for hyenas, jackals, wild cats, foxes, civets, nilgai, sambar and birds including peacocks, parakeets and woodpeckers. Amagarh is also home to an 18th-century fort built by Maharaja Jawai Singh II. Time your visit to one of India’s most exciting literature festivals. The Jaipur Literature Fest is slated to take place from 19 to 23 January and will feature speakers like Anthony Sattin and Sudha Murty. Stay at the newly opened Villa Palladio , a nine-room boutique hotel that looks straight out of a jewel box, from the duo behind the famous Bar Palladio. For a drink, check out Johri & Sons, a slick new bar concocting smashing cocktails with a twist, and a side of ker sangri samosas and roomali khakra. It’s a fitting end to a day spent in the wilderness.  Shradha Shahani

Srinagar, India

Go for: New infrastructure for easier road tripping, elevated nature retreats

Srinagar, an alluring and once hard-to-visit destination in the Kashmir Valley, is opening up to travellers in a big way in 2023, with new roadways making it easier than ever to get in and around.

In the heart of the Kashmir Valley, the gem of Srinagar – with its winding waterways and colourful houseboats – is equally alluring and challenging to plan a visit to. Yet the destination seems to be shifting gears, with the government greenlighting development projects that will benefit travellers.

Srinagar has some vibrant new openings:  Karan Mahal , a swanky, intimate stay in the historic residence of Kashmir’s former rulers and amid nearly 60 acres of orchards and woods, launched last year, while  Qayaam Gah , a stylish, Sufi-inspired nature retreat in the Zabarwan Hills, with unfettered bird’s-eye views of Dal Lake, opened this summer. Additionally, Indian Hotels Company Limited (also behind the Taj Hotels) will bring its affordable brand, Ginger Hotels , to Srinagar in the first half of 2023.

The capital is also about to get a boost in accessibility, with a spate of highways and tunnels planned to open in 2023 that will, among other connections, make it easier to drive from Kashmir – across breathtaking landscapes – to neighbouring Ladakh, even in winter. Other side trips that will be easier to reach, thanks to the new infrastructure: Sonamarg (which translates to “golden meadow”), a stunning hill station that is poised for substantial tourism development in the years to come, and Pahalgam, an idyllic getaway that has long drawn travellers to its pastoral charms. The latter will see, in early 2023, the opening of  Shepherd’s Barn , a cottage stay by Ramneek Kaur (whose family owns the Bollywood-favourite Pahalgam Hotel), which will add rooms to an existing program of craft tours and local activities under the auspices of the Shepherd Crafts Cultural Centre. With so much change underfoot, there is no better time to experience the area – and before everyone else starts to do the same. Saumya Ancheri

Jeypore, Odisha

Go for: New trekking trails

Amid the heritage structures and urban strongholds of Odisha, Jeypore poses as a fine repository of all things natural. From caves hidden in the depths of forests to bold waterfalls, there’s ample to see and discover here. Thanks to the local administration’s efforts, one of its key areas – the Nakti Dangar hill of Jeypore’s Pangi forest reserve – will soon have a designated trail route for travellers. This means that you will now be able to navigate through the wild at a height of 1,400 metres. On the way, you can spot various endangered species such as the Jeypore Hill Gecko. The project is expected to be completed towards the end of 2023 and will present a resting stop at the top of the hill to complement the trail. The city also packs within it a host of cultural outposts. Think temples, palaces and the forts that let you in on the city’s past as a trading hotspot – all surrounded by the Eastern Ghats and blanketed in a cool breezy climate.  RG

Kochi, Kerala

Go for : Kochi-Muziris Biennale, Chinese fishing nets, history lessons

Come December , the bright bylanes of fort Kochi will don different expressions of art as Kochi-Muziris Biennale returns physically after a brief pandemic-induced hiatus. The Biennale, an international contemporary art exhibition, will spill into the next year and end in April 2023 with installations and events set up in and around several locations of the scenic Fort Kochi. Be sure to set a couple of days aside to cover as many locations and artworks as you can while taking in the beauty of the place and its architecture on foot. For the history buffs, there are the 16th-century Mattancherry Palace built by the Portuguese and the Paradesi Synagogue in Jew Town that will momentarily transport you back to that era. As the sun sets, Chinese fishing nets will beckon you with a lively and fun fish auction experience.  SK

Go for : The coast’s newest surf school and beach zipline in Devgad

In 2021, the Chipi Parule Airport in Sindhudurg was finally inaugurated after a wait of more than 20 years. This year brought another reason to visit the Konkan coast. Adventure company Flying Konkan has launched the very first Board Surfing School on the coast at the Devgad and Taramburi beaches. At the Flying Konkan Surfing School, beginners and experienced surfers are welcome to catch some waves. The coast at Devgad (about 100km from Ratnagiri, towards Goa) is less crowded and less explored than most shores, creating an ideal atmosphere for slow, leisurely surfing. Waves are typically 3-5ft in April and can reach 10ft in May. If you’re not interested in surfing, you can enjoy the school’s very own coastal zipline over the beach.  AA

Kuno, Madhya Pradesh

Go for: The comeback of cheetahs, vibe with the wild

When you draw up your travel calendar for 2023, do not forget to squeeze in a quick trip to the centre of the country for a very special reason. Madhya Pradesh’s Kuno National Park recently became home to cheetahs that have made a comeback in India seven decades after being declared extinct. By 2023, you should get a chance to spot the Namibian cheetahs (all eight of them if you’re lucky!) roaming in all their spotted glory in the lap of the Vindhyas at Kuno. If the cheetahs are elusive, you can always hop onto a safari jeep and let the park’s flora and fauna – with close to 30 mammals, 200 birds and 14 species of fish – whisk you away from the fast-paced city life.  SK

Mumbai, Maharashtra

Go for : Lollapalooza, Van Gogh 360 and the exciting sports scene

There are ample reasons to visit the city of dreams on any given day. It could be for the serendipity of catching your favourite stars shooting in the middle of Kala Ghoda, or for the miraculous urban forest where leopards roam in midst of all things manmade. But in the coming year, some never-before moments will accentuate the bustling little world that is Mumbai. Chicago’s international music festival Lollapalooza ( 28-29 January 2023 ) is making its Asia debut in the city in 2023. Indigenous artists such as AP Dhillon, Prateek Kuhad, Bombay Brass and others will share the space with international hit bands Imagine Dragons, Cigarettes After Sex, Zhu and Diplo. While you’re here for the love of music, also head to Van Gogh 360 (20 January to 17 February 2023), an immersive art experience that’ll display 300 artworks by the Dutch painter in a never-before setting. The floors and ceilings of Mumbai’s World Trade Centre will be drenched in colour, complemented by audio-visual elements for a dreamy experience. 2023 is also a big year for sports in the country. With India hosting the 2023 ICC World Cup, Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium is expected to run at least a few of the matches on the roster.  RG

Go for : Offroading, the Hornbill Festival

In a spur to promote off-roading tourism in Nagaland, the state’s government has been urging travellers to head off the beaten track. Nagaland Offroad, an initiative by the Government of Nagaland with Wander Beyond Boundaries, encourages travel beyond the conventional destinations of Kohima and Dimapur. This is a land where between the slush and ridges, local communities welcome you with open arms and a jungle of wilderness awaits exploration. As part of the initiative, you can stay in local homestays, eat at regional restaurants and discover craft shops on your way. You can choose a track across 13 districts, each presenting unique topographies, flora and fauna and local culture to interact with. After a brief hiatus, the famous Hornbill Festival held near Kohima also sprung back in 2021. If you haven’t yet, watch the tribes of Nagaland display the best of their traditions in wrestling matches, bamboo festivals, walkathons, heritage walks, loin loom events and more.  RG

Pune, Maharashtra

Go for : The indie food scene

Butchers, brewers, bakers and even candlemakers: this hip city is home to all. Pune has a combination of things going for itself like its proximity to Mumbai, affordable housing and a laidback but driven attitude. This chill vibe has since attracted young working professionals and entrepreneurs looking to start up in a city that has access to green open spaces and an audience that wants the coolth of Mumbai minus its hustle. Feeding this community is a crop of food folks hungry for more. There’s Dohiti, which churns not just warm, flaky croissants out but also cinnamon rolls with local ingredients like jaggery and finger millet and swaps blueberry for the local kokum (Garcinia indica) in cheesecakes; Niket Drego of The Daily Cut, which focuses on small-batch experimental cold cuts such as vindaloo chorizo, and WeIdliwale, a restaurant and delivery kitchen that zooms into regional cuisine from Karnataka. Tipplers have a range of options to choose from as well: craft brewery Great State Aleworks collaborates with farmers for new brews while others like Yavasura, Kimaya Brewing Co., Doolally and Moonshine Meadery, believed to be Asia’s first meadery, are all based out of the city. Experimental food pop-ups with brewers, chefs, bakers and mixologists add to the inventive dine-out scene.  SM

Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

Go for : A truly luxurious wellness circuit

Rishikesh, often referred to as the birthplace of yoga, became a port of call this year for travellers looking to meld wellness with classic luxury. Vana, a wellness retreat near Dehradun, Uttarakhand, announced a rebrand as Six Senses Vana that offers everything from a four-day fast fix-up to complete detoxification of body and mind during a month-long Ayurvedic Panchakarma retreat. At Ananda in the Himalayas , situated around a restored Maharaja's palace in the hills above Rishikesh, guests can pick from Eastern healing philosophies – Ayurveda, Vedanta, yoga – blended with Western techniques. And Taj Rishikesh , which sprawls over 12.5 acres of lush gardens on the slopes of the Garhwali Himalayas along the banks of river Ganga offers spa treatments influenced by the characteristics of the mighty river. Think sensitivity, calm, energy, generosity and strength.  SM

Santiniketan, West Bengal

Go for : The Baul Festival, art, culture and Rabindranath Tagore

Santiniketan, home to the acclaimed Viswa Bharati University and Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore, is a hub of literature, art and culture in West Bengal. This prestigious university, set up by Tagore in 1921, was an extension of the ashram and school started by his father Maharishi Debendranath Tagore. Envisioned as a space of learning, scholarship and propagation of the arts, the university is the green heart of the town of Bolpur and it is surrounded by the idyllic surrounds of the Birbhum countryside, complete with picturesque rivers, red earth and forests of mango, sal and golden acacia trees. Its history and heritage structures are likely to be inscribed into the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 2023. These include the stunning Kanch Mandir, a prayer hall made of Belgian glass and the Kala Bhavana or fine arts faculty with sculptures, frescos and murals by its illustrious faculty including modern Indian art and sculpture pioneers Nandalal Bose and Ramkinkar Baij. Unhurried tours on foot or cycle rickshaw allow visitors to take it all in and stop for an occasional tea break at any of the charming cafes in the area. Apart from Tagore’s own enterprise and its legacy in his poetry and songs, Santiniketan also straddles the region’s folk culture, food and craft – from baul musicians to local food and cotton weaving – all of which are showcased in community-run spaces and weekly fairs or haats under the trees. Visit between winter and spring to participate in the Poush mela (December), the Baul mela (January) and the Basanta Utsav (March) – where songs reverberate through the land and men and women dance in joyous celebration.  DK

Go for : New hotels, cherry blossoms, music and food festivals

If you consider nature a luxury, there was never a dearth of luxury in Shillong. The Meghalayan capital, with its pink winter and green trekking trails, holds an abundance of wild escapades. But to add to that, the state-owned Crowborough Hotel also opened its doors as Vivanta Meghalaya in September 2022. Being Meghalaya’s first five-star property, this hotel is the state’s first take on a luxury getaway. The next big thing on the cards is the opening of Courtyard by Marriott next year. Travellers will now have a host of stay options for when they visit to explore the city’s indie rock scene or wild forests. While you’re here, catch the Shillong Autumn Festival as the banks of Umiam Lake turn into a hub of local food, crafts and music, and watch the landscape bloom with flowers at the Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival. Save an extra day and drive 20 km to Umbir, where every November, the eco-friendly Hills Festival presents an opportunity to camp under the stars, learn about local foraging and feast on local cuisine.  RG

Tons Valley, Uttarakhand

Go for : Idyllic mountain views and a truly local experience

After setting up an online shop in 2020 to enable city dwellers to buy produce like fresh apples and kidney beans from farmers based in rural Uttarakhand, the Tons Shop is under threat, due to a rise in shipping prices. One way to help bring capital back to the locals in the idyllic rolling hills and lush green valleys of Uttarakhand is to sign up for a trail of Tons, organised by Tons Trails , a social enterprise promoting sustainable tourism in the region. In the spring, instead of crowding Dehradun, tourists can follow nomads into mystical grasslands, drink from glacial streams and learn about seasonal flowers and medicinal plants via a tour led by locals.  SM

Udupi, Karnataka

Go for : a new pet-friendly homestay, birdwatching and untouched beaches

Most people would associate the word "Udupi" with India's many Udupi restaurants—a genre of restaurants across Indian cities serving South Indian classics like idlis, vadas, dosas and more. But there's a lot more to the region in Karnataka. About an hour's drive from Mangaluru, Udupi is home to several vibrant temples, the most popular of which is the Udupi Sri Krishna Temple. In 2022, travelling pet parents Priyanka Jena and Tanveer Taj set up Praana Experience , their three-bedroom homestay, on a parcel of land right by the sea in the district. The homestay also has a studio home that recently opened for long-term rentals. You're welcome to bring your pets, of course, and there are chirping birds and sounds of sea waves to keep you company. An observatory within and a forest close by allow for some quiet birdwatching and you could spot hornbills and peacocks. There are more than a few beaches to explore – Maravanthe, Mattu and Malpe are closest – and most are crowd-free and pristine.  AA

India’s luxury trains

Go for : a timeless travel experience

After a temporary halt due to Covid-19, two of India’s most luxurious trains are set to be back in action. The carriages of Rajasthan’s Palace on Wheels, launched in 1982, were once those of the maharajas and nizams. The eight-day journey starts in Delhi and takes you to all the best sights of Rajasthan, from the palaces of Udaipur and Jaipur to the nature and wildlife of Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, before heading to Agra for the iconic Taj Mahal. The Deccan Odyssey, which is likely to restart operations in 2023, is counted among the world’s most opulent trains. Pick from six-week-long journeys that go through Maharashtra, Ranthambore National Park, Goa, Hyderabad, Gujarat or Agra. You will, of course, be well taken care of onboard both trains, at the massage centres, bars and restaurants.  AA

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The transformational travel guide

The 24 best places to visit in India by month

INDIA IS A VAST COUNTRY, teeming with incredible places to visit from ancient forts and palaces to friendly villages and pristine national parks. A subcontinent, India is home to a wide variety of landscapes from lush jungles and tropical beaches to sand-swept deserts and the highest mountain range on earth. There are 40 UNESCO World Heritage sites and four of the world’s top biodiversity hotspots; one of the world’s oldest cities, Varanasi , and 70% of the world’s wild tigers . It’s very hard to choose the best tourist places in India because there are so many – but here are some favourites from India’s leading travel bloggers, arranged by the best time to visit for weather, festivals, and other factors.

Generally, most foreign tourists visit India between October and March for the most pleasant weather. May and June are the hottest months, and the southwest monsoon sweeps across the country from July to September. In December and January, North India is surprisingly cold, and foggy weather can snarl travel plans — especially in and around Delhi . Therefore, planning your travels to keep weather (and major Festivals of India !) in mind, can really help you have a great trip.

Table of Contents

Best places to visit in India in January

Gokarna .

Gokarna, located on the coast in the southern state of Karnataka, is definitely one of the best places to visit in India. It is much more laid back compared to Goa — and that is the beauty of it. With endless beaches such as Om Beach, Half Moon Beach, Paradise Beach, and Kudle Beach, it is a must visit place in India for any beach lover. Here you will find some of the best beaches in India . You can also trek between the beaches and see incredible views of some of the beaches from the cliffs above.

If you are a spiritual person, Gokarna is also the site of an Atma Linga, a 4th century Shiva temple: the Mahabaleshwar temple. This is a site of religious pilgrimage for many Hindus, who perform the rituals for their departed relatives. There are numerous other temples in Gokarna as well.

Gokarna used to have some amazing cafes serving both Indian and continental food but many are currently shut because of the pandemic. Night life has also considerably calmed down compared to yesteryears, when there were secret rave parties around Gokarna.

If you are travelling by road, it takes approximately 9.5 hours from Bangalore, the capital of Karnataka. Alternatively, you can fly to Mangalore and then catch a bus from there which takes approximately 3-4 hours. Other beach towns to visit near Gokarna are Karwar, Murudeswar, Udupi and more. 

Best time to visit Gokarna is between October – March.

Contributed by Soumya Nambiar of Travel, Books & Food .

Bikaner 

Bikaner is an underrated city in the state of Rajasthan. Boasting intricate havelis, beautiful temples, and spectacular forts and palaces, it is an architectural wonder that should be a must-visit destination for anyone looking for lesser-known places in India.

If you have a penchant for travel photography and bygone eras, the narrow lanes of Bikaner’s old city will capture your heart. Start your day early and visit the charming Rampuria Havelis before traffic hours kick in. This group of seven ornate mansions belonging to a merchant family of Bikaner is a treat for the eyes.

The Rampuria family is one of the many that flourished because of the silk route. Bikaner’s prominent location along the silk route is, perhaps, why Rao Bika, a descendent of Jodhpur, chose to set up his capital here when it was just barren land.

Some other places to see in Bikaner include Junagarh Fort, Karni Mata Temple, Bhandasar Jain Temple, Devi Kund Sagar, and the Thar Desert. Hotels like Narendra Bhawan, Laxmi Niwas Palace, and Lallgarh Palace also hold historical significance and are worth checking out.

You can reach Bikaner by road and rail from most other cities in India. There is also a direct flight from Delhi that operates a few days a week. 

Best time to visit Bikaner is the winter months, between October and March, as they are ideal for pleasant weather.

Contributed by Charu is a travel blogger, photographer and writer behind travelwithcg.com.

Best places to visit in India February

Jaipur, famous the world over as the pink city has been attracting travellers ever since it was founded in 1727 AD. It is no surprise that Jaipur takes pride of place on lists of top travel destinations across the world. 

Jaipur offers so much, including forts, palaces, step-wells, markets, festivals, temples, and food. Very few cities possess the charm of attracting travellers again and again, but Jaipur is one of them. A traveller can definitely spend 4-5 days exploring all that the city offers. 

Jaipur was founded as a trading city in the 18th century by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II. The city has carved out a niche in handmade craftsmanship the world over: textiles, jewellery, and art & crafts are in huge demand. The bazaars of Jaipur are a treat for visitors, an Aladdin’s cave of riches and treasures. 

Jaipur is also one of the best places to experience Indian festivals like Diwali , Holi , Kite Festival, Teej, to name a few. The tourism infrastructure is well-developed, offering a variety of stay options and activities. In fact, Jaipur arguably has the best range of hotels of any city in India. Many of the hotels in Jaipur were originally authentic palaces and havelis that have been transformed into enchanting hotels (at every price point).

How to reach? Jaipur is well-connected to all Indian cities where most international carriers fly like New Delhi, Mumbai, or Bangalore. You can reach Jaipur by flight, train, and taxi .

Best time to visit is winter, between October – February. The world famous Jaipur Literature Festival takes place at the end of January / beginning of February each year.

Contributed by Arv of Jaipur Thru My Lens .

Mumbai , formerly known as Bombay, can be chaotic and overwhelming, but it’s a fascinating city to visit with its beautiful colonial buildings and energetic atmosphere and cannot be missed. Mumbai is definitely at the top of any list of best places to visit in India, without a doubt. The city is rich in history and culture, home to Bollywood, and seriously delicious food . Mumbai is best visited during the winter season (October to March) when the temperature is pleasant.

Three of the best areas to base yourself in Mumbai are the districts of Colaba, Fort, and Marine Drive in South Mumbai. From here most major tourist destinations are within easy walking distance. 

(Editor’s note: The trendy suburb of Bandra is another great option for hip cafes, seafront promenades, and the charming atmosphere of a forming Portuguese fishing village.)

Mumbai is one of the oldest cities in India, and it boasts an abundance of historical and cultural things to see and do. The Gateway of India is the city’s most iconic landmark. Mumbai also has many interesting museums, impressive architecture, and the Elephanta Caves, which are well worth visiting.

Throughout the city you will see signs of a rich cultural heritage that includes famous temples, as well as significant monuments such as the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, Gandhi House, Haji Ali Mosque, and the Bhau Daji Lad Museum. Other must-dos include a visit to The Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, Dhobi Ghat open air laundromat, and watching the sunset at Nariman Point on Marine Drive.

Best time to visit Mumbai is winter October – March. Otherwise it is hot and humid, and often floods during the monsoon in summer. Note: read our guide to The Best Places to Visit in Mumbai on a 3-day itinerary .

Contributed by Peta and Jonas of Exit45 Travels, a couple in their midlife who took an adult gap year, and have been travelling full time ever since.

Living root bridges of Meghalaya

Meghalaya, the wettest state of India, is famous for its incredible living root bridges. The artwork of bending and constructing the roots of the rubber fig tree (Ficus Elastica) in the shape of a bridge is done by the Khasi and Jaintia tribes inside the dense rainforest of Cherrapunjee. They guide the pliable aerial roots of the rubber fig trees (Ficus Elastica) across the rivers and then allow them to grow strong. 

A mature living root bridge protects itself from heavy storms and floods and can usually hold more than 35 people at once. Although there are many living root bridges in Meghalaya, the 150-year-old human-made, double-decker living root bridge is unique and most attractive.

To reach the 50 metres long and 1.5 metre wide bridge, you have to start a thrilling trek from Tyrna village, 20 kilometres away from Cherrapunjee. Winter is the best time for trekking to the double-decker living root bridge when you will get the pleasant weather, clear sky, and the path will be safe. You can reach there by crossing a hanging bridge over the crystal blue river, going up and down almost 3,500 steps through dense forest. 

In the end, your exhaustion will evaporate when you dip your feet in the Umshiang River flowing under the bridge, and the small fish will nip your feet. A walk from one end of the bridge to the other will give you a memorable lifetime experience.

Best time to visit the living root bridges in Meghalaya is winter, from November to March.

Contributed by Koyeli Biswas of Nature Diary. 

Video of living root bridge of Meghalaya by pabloenindia

Pondicherry / Puducherry

Pondicherry, known officially as Puducherry, is the capital of a district of the same name in south-eastern India. “Pondy” as the locals endearingly call it, is a former French colony that is still characterised by strong French influences to this day. The French East Indies Company claimed the city as its trading hub in the 1600’s, and the city only merged with India in 1954. 

The best things to do in Pondicherry are to spend time at its beaches, experience the old French Quarter, and visit Auroville township . Pondicherry borders the Bay of Bengal to the east, so the city has several beaches and a wide public promenade. Although the waters are too dangerous for swimming, many locals and tourists spend time picnicking and relaxing on the shore. 

The French Quarter in Pondicherry consists of colourful, well-preserved colonial buildings repurposed to house chic restaurants and trendy cafes. Visitors will receive five-star hospitality here, at a fraction of the price of a similar setting in France.  

One must-visit place when in Pondy is Auroville, an experimental township located a quick tuk-tuk ride to the north. Auroville is known for being a “universal township”, focused on “realizing human unity.” Visitors to Auroville can learn about the history of the township, meditate in its golden Matrimandir chamber, and learn about alternative living methods like organic farming, earthen architecture, and renewable energy. 

Pondicherry is a transport hub that can be reached by air, rail, and bus. 

The best time to visit is between December and March, which is after the monsoon season ends and when temperatures are cooler. 

Contributed by Erika from Erika’s Travelventures .

Best places to visit in India in March

Amritsar (which translates to ‘the tank of the nectar of immortality’) is a spiritually and historically significant city in Punjab, India and one of the most fascinating places to visit. Amritsar is most famous for being the home to the spectacular Golden Temple but there’s plenty of other unique experiences to have here.

The Golden Temple (the official name Harmandir Sahib means the abode of God) is the most important Gurudwara and the holiest place for Sikhs. It’s one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen, and was a better experience for me than the Taj Mahal.

The Golden Temple’s beauty lies not only in its gold-plated appearance, but also due to the special, serene atmosphere, the colourful pilgrims who visit, and the volunteers who keep the place sparkling clean while also managing to feed 100,000 people per day for free.

Personally, I found the experience of visiting the Golden Temple more profound than visiting the Taj Mahal because the Taj is a mausoleum and a tourist attraction, while the Golden Temple is a living, breathing place of worship.

While in Amritsar you can also explore the maze of dusty bazaars, witness the unique closing ceremony at the Wagah Border, visit the Mata Lal Devi temple – probably the most bizarre temple in the world, and pay your respects at Jallianwala Bagh.  

The Golden Temple is open 24 hours and free to visit. You can visit any time of the year, but March offers the most pleasant weather and the three-day Holla Mohalla festivities. You can reach Amritsar in only six hours by twice-daily Amritsar Shatabdi Express train from Delhi.

The best time to visit Amritsar is March because it offers the most pleasant weather and the three-day Holla Mohalla festivities. 

Anna Phipps is a travel writer and blogger from the U.K. who has been living in Goa, India since 2015. She writes tips for travelling in India, and around the world, on her blog GlobalGallivanting.

Rishikesh is a great place to visit almost all year ’round, but March is the best month for weather, the Holi Festival , and the Yoga Festival (which happens the first week of March every year). It’s very warm during the day, and cool at night, and there’s a fun, festive feeling in the air. Rishikesh is the Yoga capital of India , and a lot of Yoga teacher training programs happen in March — bringing an influx of students from all around the world. In March, Rishikesh feels like a global city!

Rishikesh is a small town in north India, scenically located at the spot where the Ganga (Ganges) River spills out of the foothills of the Himalayas and begins her long journey across the plains of India to the Bay of Bengal. Here, you are surrounded by robust, pristine nature.

Expect the signs and symbols of a sacred India town: holy cows, ashrams, and orange-robed sadhus, temple bells, and incense. There is a feeling in Rishikesh unlike anywhere else. The vibe is both relaxed and reverent — and consequently attracts genuine Hindu devotees as well as foreign Yoga students, digital nomads, and adventure travellers.

More recently, Rishikesh has also emerged as an adventure capital that attracts young Indian travellers who enjoy water water rafting, nearby trekking, staying in hostels, and hanging out in river front cafes. There is a growing digital nomad scene in Rishikesh too, as the internet improves and more long-stay accommodation opens up with hostels, hotels, resorts, and guest houses popping up like mushrooms. 

Best places to visit in India in April

Dharamshala.

When you arrive in the spiritual, idyllic setting of Dharamshala in North India, you’ve landed in the wise, welcoming arms of Buddhist culture. It’s no surprise that this region’s nature, history, sutras, and tantras lure spiritual seekers from all over the world.

Dharamshala is home to the Dalai Lama and to the Tibetan government in exile. I was drawn to this region by the opportunity to meet his Holiness, who runs teachings all year round. Though they have temporarily been moved online since the start of the pandemic, early risers in Dharamshala will see Buddhist pilgrims walking on the temple road and chanting to the Dalai Lama’s residence in Mcleodganj every morning, as well as monks clothed in red saffron robes carrying Free Tibet signs. 

Based in the Kangra region of the Dhauladhar mountains, tranquillity seekers like myself will find an abundance of nature walks in the hilltop villages of Dharamkot, Mcleodganj and Bhagsu, which is famous for the sweet Indian favourite Bhagsu cake. You can take silent, serene walks through pine forests, and among misty mountains, and find hidden tea gardens and gushing waterfalls. In Dharamshala you can also enjoy Buddhist teachings, visiting bustling town markets, and a variety of local restaurants, and the opportunity to delve into Tibetan culture.

Dharamshala is a hiker’s haven and I highly recommend visiting in the spring and summer months for the incredible views of the Himalayan mountains. For those brave enough, do not miss the spectacular trek up to Triund, the Snow Line, and Indrahar Pass. The monsoon season enriches and rejuvenates the land’s lush, coniferous greenery. 

Best time to visit Dharamshala is the spring and summer months for the incredible views of the Himalayan mountains.

Contributed by Sophia, who runs Beauty in a Backpack , a conscious slow travel blog.

Kanha National Park

One of India’s oldest and biggest national parks, Kanha Tiger Reserve is home to incredible biodiversity, and located on the banks of the Banjar River, in the heart of rural Central India.

Surrounded by spotlessly clean villages, abode of the Baiga and Gond tribal communities who still practice a very traditional form of agriculture, Kanha is also one of the best places to see tigers in the wild.

Impeccably managed by the local Forest Department, the park is the only place in the world where one can admire the endangered hard ground Barasingha or swamp deer.

The forest is nothing less than spectacular, thanks to the iconic green canopy of Sal trees that never goes dry, even in summer.

Kanha can be reached in a few hours by road from Nagpur, Jabalpur or Raipur.

Safari activities run from October to the end of June, when the core zone closes for monsoon.

All seasons are beautiful in Kanha. Expect an extremely cold winter (but a dreamy and misty atmosphere) and a relatively hot summer (up to 42 degrees).

The best time to visit Kanha for tiger spotting is April because the heat forces them to the waterholes.

Camilla Malvestiti is a naturalist, wildlife photographer and tiger safari mentor, author of the blog Tigers in the Wild .

Best places to visit in India in May

Munnar 

Munnar is one of the most fascinating natural wonders of India. It’s situated at an altitude of 1,600 metres (5,200 feet) in the state of Kerala , also known as God’s own country, in the southern part of India. 

Munnar and the villages surrounding Munnar are incredibly quiet and tranquil. They feature never-ending and postcard-perfect tea plantations, lush green valleys, forests and hill ranges, sparkling waterfalls, extremely rare and unique flora, and fauna. These places offer a myriad of activities to their visitors.

Munnar is famous for making the best teas in India. For this reason, the major highlight here is the lush green tea plantations. You can freely stroll among the tea plantations and take photos. The most beautiful tea plantations are the Pallivasal Tea Estate, the Kolukkumalai Tea Estate and the Chinnakalal Tea Plantation.

Hidden among the tea plantations, you can walk around spectacular lakes such as the Kundale Lake, Devikulam Lake and Mattupetty Dam and sparkling waterfalls such as the Attukad Waterfalls.

Furthermore, there are massive national parks in Munnar. For instance, the Eravikulam National Park where you can even spot wild animals such as elephants if you are lucky.

Winter is the best time to visit Munnar. The average temperature in winter is 23 °C / 73.4 °F which feels warmer than it sounds due to the high humidity in the region.

To reach Munnar, first travel to Kochi. From any major travel destination, you can get to Kochi by bus. Then, from Kochi, take a governmental bus to Munnar. The distance is 126 km and the ride costs only 130 rupees. And most importantly the way to Munnar is mind-blowingly beautiful. 

Best time to visit is … anytime! Since Munnar is at a higher elevation, it is pleasant most of the year, and can be chilly in winter.

Contributed by Diana from The Globetrotting Detective.

Located in Northeast India, Sikkim is ringed on three sides by Nepal, Bhutan, and the Tibet Autonomous Region of China. The former kingdom only became part of India in 1975 and still retains its unique culture and traditions.

The capital, Gangtok, is located in East Sikkim. Perched on a ridge, Gangtok is home to museums, markets, monasteries, and restaurants. It also has a growing literary scene. Readings and talks are held regularly in the city’s premier bookstore, Rachna Bookstore. A few hours away is the revered Rumtek Monastery where you can watch masked dances during the Losar Festival. 

The old Silk route threads through the mountains of East Sikkim and for adventurous road-trippers, it is a trip of a lifetime! Ancient monasteries, ruins of the old kingdom, trekking trails that take you deep into the Himalaya, and forests full of pink and white rhododendrons are the main attractions in West Sikkim . 

The Buddhist monastic trail that starts in Yuksom and ends at Tashiding takes pilgrims to some of the region’s oldest, most isolated monasteries, including Dubdi Monastery which is Sikkim’s oldest monastery. South Sikkim is known for its tea plantations. North Sikkim is a tapestry of icy peaks, azure lakes, ancient glaciers, and remote hamlets. Tucked in the folds of these mountains, is the Lepcha reserve, Dzongu. Here, you can go hiking and angling, birdwatching and butterfly-spotting, and stay at homestays with local families.

Sikkimese food is unlike the food in other parts of India. Spices are sparingly used and the Tibetan influence shows in dishes like thukpa and momos. Meat is widely consumed, but it is easy to find vegetarian preparations. Organic farming is widely practised and meals served at homestays are usually cooked with produce straight from the kitchen garden. Foraging is common: try stir-fried fiddlehead ferns and stewed stinging nettles. 

Non-Indian nationals need a restricted area permit to visit Sikkim. Indian citizens do not need permits to visit Sikkim, but protected area permits are required for North Sikkim, for high-altitude treks in West Sikkim, and to visit the Tsomgo Lake, Baba Mandir, and Nathu La. More information can be found here .

Best times to visit Sikkim is between March to May for the blooming season. OR between October to mid-December for clear views of the Himalayan mountains.

Contributed by Mohana, who writes about food and places on her blog, Two Together .

Best places to visit in India in June

Spiti valley.

Spiti Valley is a high-altitude desert-scape blessed with stunning mountains and unique culture–it’s absolutely one of the best places to visit in India. Located in the state of Himachal Pradesh, Spiti is comprised of numerous villages and gives travellers a taste of Tibet without leaving the country. 

Spitians originally came from Tibet, and their language and traditions are very similar. Locals even look Tibetan and the landscape is even unique from nearby Ladakh. This is what makes this region so unique – it’s unlike anything else you can find in the state, which is otherwise very green. The region is extremely remote and isolated, and can only be reached by a long and arduous road journey, though flight options may soon come. 

While in the region don’t miss out on the stunning village of Nako, the splendour that is the Dhankar Lake and its many yaks, and Mud, where you can literally see purple-tinted mountains. The Key Monastery is another famous landmark in the region, as is the Tabo Monastery which dates back to 996 CE.

As the entire valley is very high up, it experiences extremely harsh and long winters. The best time to enjoy the beauty of Spiti is in the months of June-September. This is also when it will be possible to do the full circular route, as the Rohtang Pass will be open. Due to snow, this pass is closed the majority of the year and in fact, could even be closed in mid-June. Be sure to check the status before planning your road trip!

Best time to visit Spiti Valley is June to September.

Contributed by Samantha, a freelance writer and travel blogger who writes about her adventures in and around South Asia at Intentional Detours.

Manali 

Located in the foothills of the Himalayan mountains in Himachal Pradesh, picturesque Manali is one of the best places to visit in India for stunning views of the Himalayan range, the laid-back vibe of Old Manali, and the plethora of adventure activities.

Old Manali has a bohemian vibe. There are plenty of bijou cafes, funky independent shops, street food vendors selling thukpas (noodle soup) and siddus (steamed buns) – which are favourites among locals and tourists alike. Pop into Dylan’s Toasted and Roasted Coffee House and enjoy a fresh brew and chocolate chip cookies – they have fabulous artwork inspired by Bob Dylan. Popular nearby attractions include Hadimba Temple, Vashishtha Temple, and Jogini Falls, a magnificent 160 foot waterfall. You can occasionally spot Himalayan Yaks while trekking in this area.

If you are into adventure activities, Manali is the right place for you. You can do paragliding, water rafting, and skiing. Also, there are many short and long-distance walking trails in and around Manali such as Chandrakhani Pass Tre, Bhirgu Lake Trek, and Hampta Pass Trek. There is something for everyone in Manali. You can easily spend a few days, even weeks, in this resort town. You won’t get bored!

Manali is about 350 miles north of Delhi, the capital of India. You can find good bus and train services from there. 

Best time to visit Manali is March to June because the weather remains pleasantly warm and dry. Winter is also a good option if you fancy admiring the town in the snow.

Contributed by Moumita and Sankha of Chasing the Long Road , Indian travel bloggers living in Scotland who are passionate about photography and travelling.

Best places to visit in India in July

Ladakh .

Ladakh , quite literally, takes your breath away. Its main gateway, Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, a short, dramatic flight from Delhi, is situated at 3,256 metres while the Khardung-la Pass (5,600 metres), is promoted as the world’s highest motorable road. Indeed the very meaning of La dak is “land of high passes.”

For many, Ladakh’s big attraction is the Tibetan connection. As the Tibetan Autonomous Region (TAR) becomes increasingly Sinicized and politicised, one has to look elsewhere to find vibrant Tibetan traditions thriving freely. Although Tibetans and Ladakhis have a shared culture, religion, and written language, since the Chinese annexation of Tibet in 1959 and the subsequent 1962 Sino-Indian War, they are draconically divided. 

The numerous Tibetan refugees in Leh’s marketplaces are most visitors’ first tangible encounter with the Tibetan connection, closely followed by the glorious gompas — monasteries — of the Indus Valley, especially Hemis, Thiksey, and Stokna. But it is surely the achingly beautiful Pangong-tso lake(4,250 metres), which is the most potent symbol of the political division of a people and land which geo-culturally are one. 

The southeast part of the lake is in the TAR, whilst the remainder is in Ladakh. With the disputed Sino-Indian border slicing through its width, unsurprisingly it is politically sensitive. No wonder H.H. the 14 th Dalai Lama often comes here to gaze towards his beloved, unattainable homeland. The rest of us can likewise gaze and wonder.

Best time to visit Ladakh is the summer months from June to September. The Hemis Festival in July and the Ladakh Festival in September are two of the most beloved festivals and well worth attending.

Contributed by Lesley, a passionate trekker and writer / photographer of the Himalayan swathe, including Tibet and Nepal. You can follow her on her Facebook page . 

Best places to visit in India in August

Goa is one of the most popular destinations to visit in India because of its laid back culture, the delicious local food in Goa , and the beautiful beaches. Due to its popularity, many people flock to Goa, especially in winter. However, during the shoulder season and monsoon season Goa is equally fun – and less crowded, too. Check out these tips to experiencing offbeat Goa .

I’m partial to Goa because I’m Goan! However, what makes it special is that even though it is one of the tiniest states in India, it packs a punch as not only are the people the friendliest, they are pretty liberal as well. This makes it one of the top places in India to head to if you’re looking to relax without inhibitions.

The Portuguese colonised Goa, and they were the last to leave India. Therefore, the culture in Goa is a unique blend of the coastal culture in India intermingled with remnants of Portuguese colonisation, which can be seen in the architectural styles and some of the dishes as well.

It is possible to fly to Goa or you could fly to Mumbai and drive, which takes about 7 hours or so. Or take the train. The Konkan Railway offers a picturesque route down the coast.

Best time to visit Goa: Many people tend to think the best time to visit Goa is in winter, from December to February, when it gets cold in North India, and it’s not overly hot in Goa. It’s pleasant during these months, while hot and humid the rest of the year. But the monsoon in Goa , in July and August, has its own charm and should be experienced. 

Tip: Monsoon is a great time to travel. Read about the 12 Best places to visit in monsoon in India and the 14 Best monsoon travel destinations around the globe .

Contributed by Lavina, a journalist and the editor of Continent Hop, a multi-award nominated culture, food and photography blog that also has beautiful photography.

Valley of Flowers

Valley of Flowers National Park, located in Chamoli district, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and considered to be the most popular trek in Uttarakhand. Within an area of 87 square kilometres, the valley boasts a wide range of endemic flowers, such as daisies, marigolds, poppies, orchards, primulas, and the endangered Brahma-kamal. Wildlife species such as red fox, snow leopard, black bear, langur, and the Himalayan weasel, can also be discovered in and around the valley.

You can either start hiking to Valley of Flowers from Govind Ghat or hire a shared jeep as far as Poolna, where you need to check in officially for the trek. From Poolna, it’s a 10 kilometre hike to Ghangaria. By starting at Poolna, you can shave four kilometres of additional hiking off the first day. 

Stay overnight in Ghangaria and trek about four kilometres to the Valley of Flowers. The gate opens at 7 am and you need to pay an entry fee of Rs. 150. Explore the valley till 5 pm and trek back to Ghangaria. 

The best time for Valley of Flowers Trek is between July 15 to the end of August to find the valley in full bloom.

Contributed by Ipsita Paul, a solo female backpacker, hitchhiker, and travel blogger.

Best places to visit in India in September

Listed among the seven wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal is an architectural marvel located in Agra, North India. With about 7 million visitors per year, it is the most famous tourist attraction of India and one of the top places to visit in Agra .

Visitors are amazed to see that the Taj Mahal changes colour throughout the day: milky white after sunrise, sparkling at noon, pale yellow in the evening, and iridescent on full moon nights. The Taj Mahal is widely considered the world’s most beautiful building. And they are just as enamoured by the story behind the building of the Taj Mahal as they are by its magnificence.

In essence, the Taj Mahal is a monument to love. It was built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the memory of his beloved wife, Noor Jahan, who died giving birth to their 14th child. The Taj Mahal is a mausoleum made of white marble and one of the finest examples of Mughal (Indo-Islamic) architecture. The grandeur of the Taj Mahal is a result of 20,000 labourers working day and night for 16 years. The construction started in 1632 and was completed in 1648. In 1983, the Taj Mahal was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Spanning more than 17 hectares, the complex includes a mosque and several gardens surrounding the Taj Mahal.

You can reach the Taj Mahal easily from Delhi. The nearest domestic airport is the Agra Airport, while the nearest International Airport is Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi (220 km). The city has very good rail connectivity and the main railway stations are Agra Cantt and Agra Fort. Many national highways connect Agra to other parts of the country. It takes only 3-4 hours to drive on the Yamuna Expressway from Delhi to Agra. Note: there are offbeat places to visit in Agra too.

The best time to visit Agra is between September to March, as the weather is pleasant and favourable for sightseeing and other activities such as shopping. It can be foggy in December and January. 

Best places to visit in India in October

Western ghats .

The Western Ghats, one of the UNESCO World Heritage sites in India, is a mountain range in the south-western part of India. The Western Ghats range for about 1,600 kilometres, from the state of Gujarat and to Tamil Nadu and is one of the world’s top hotspots for biological diversity. The region is home to at least 300 threatened wildlife species.

Western Ghats is famous among trekkers and wildlife enthusiasts because of dense forests, including the tropical rain and montane forests, and the abundant wildlife. The trekking trails cater for all kinds of trekkers. Some of the trails are in the tiger reserves and wildlife sanctuaries and are perfect for adventurous trekkers. There are also plenty of waterfalls to be found among these mountains.

The best time to visit the Western Ghats is after the monsoon season (after the month of September) as the mountains are lush green and the weather is pleasant. The most economical way to reach the villages is by public transport. There are frequent buses and trains that connect the villages and towns in the Western Ghats to the cities. One can also drive to the villages and towns, but as the roads are windy and narrow, it is best suited for experienced drivers.

The best time to visit the Western Ghats is after the monsoon season (after the month of September).

Contributed by Raksha Nagaraj, an Australian and Indian travel blogger who publishes the blog Solopassport.

Best places to visit in India in November

Jodhpur .

Jodhpur, also known as the Blue City, is one of the most beautiful places in Rajasthan and one that you should not miss on your trip to India. Jodhpur has so much more to offer but the astounding Mehrangarh Fort is the main attraction.Towering above the blue-painted city, it is impossible to miss its magnificence. You should take at least half a day to wander its interior and gaze at the city views. If you fancy an adventure, try the Flying Fox zip line from the fort. There are six different ones from 70 to 300 metres long.

Not far from the fort, you can explore Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park. In 2006, the park was created by Pradip Krishen as a rewilding project to restore the unique landscape that had fallen into barren, rocky wasteland. Stretching over more than 70 hectares of land, you can now witness how the native desert plants have grown back. For a bit of quiet in a busy city, this is a wonderful place to wander.

Stroll around the market near the clock tower to soak up local life. The astounding Toorji Ka Jhalara stepwell is only a short walk away and well worth a visit. Once an essential water source for the city, the stepwell is beautifully decorated with symmetric steps leading down to the water.

You can easily get to Jodhpur by train or bus from New Delhi and other big cities, and there is also a domestic airport. Check out this Guide to Rajasthan for more options.

Best time to visit Jodhpur – like most of Rajasthan – is the winter months from October to March. In summer it is blisteringly hot!

Contributed by Linn Haglund of Brainy Backpackers.

Kutch 

In India, there’s an adage that goes something like this, “Kutch nahi dekha to kuch nahi dekha.” If you haven’t seen Kutch, you haven’t really seen anything!

Kutch, with its arid landscape, colourful art forms, and unique culture, is one of the prettiest places to visit in India. Located in north-western Gujarat, bordering Pakistan and the Arabian Sea, Kutch makes for an interesting getaway for travellers of all kinds.

There are many wonderful places to visit in Kutch including the famous Rann of Kutch with its surreal landscape, the historical city of Bhuj, an intriguing UNESCO heritage site at Dholavira, and the majestic hills of Kalo Dungar. Hidden gems include Mandvi’s pristine beaches, Nirona’s craft village, and the colourful town of Gandhi nu Gaam that has risen like a phoenix after being completely devastated by the earthquake of 2001.

Do not miss an early morning safari at the Asiatic Wild Ass Sanctuary, only one of its kind in India. If you love shopping, be sure to head to Bhujodi where you will find all kinds of Kutchi handicrafts. Lippan mirror work, Rogan art, and Ajrakh prints are some of the most popular ones.

The easiest way to get to Kutch is by flying to Bhuj. You can also arrive at the Ahmedabad Airport which has more flight options and then take a train or bus to Bhuj.

The best time to visit Kutch is between November to February when the weather is pleasant. This is also the time when Kutch hosts the vibrant Rann Festival, a celebration of nature, people, and local culture.

Contributed by Soumya, a history buff and an avid traveller who loves to chronicle her experiences on her travel blog, Stories by Soumya. 

Best places to visit in India in December

Kohima, nagaland  .

Kohima is a hill station located in the Kohima district of Nagaland in Northeast India. It is situated about 1,444 metres above sea level. Kohima is also the capital of the state. I consider Kohima one of the best places to visit in India because of its natural beauty, history and ethnic diversity. 

Nagaland, home to 16  Naga ethnic groups, is the epitome of cultural diversity in India. Each ethnic group speaks a different language and dialect, and each have their own unique dress patterns and way of life. 

If you wish to experience the culture of Nagaland, you must visit the Hornbill Festival organised in December every year by the government of Nagaland at Kisama Heritage Village. The village is just about 12 kilometres from Kohima.

One would be surprised to know that World War II was fought in Kohima. The Japanese forces were defeated there by the allied forces. The War Cemetery at the heart of the town is dedicated to their sacrifice.

Dimapur in Nagaland has a regional airport and a railway station. Shared cabs, buses or hired vehicles to Kohima can be availed from Dimapur. Nagaland is one the best places to visit in Northeast India .

The best time to visit Kohima would be from March to September for greenery and December for the Hornbill Festival. 

Contributed by Joydeep Phukan, a travel blogger who writes travel stories and tips about adventure, food and culture of Northeast India and the world in his blog The Gypsy Chiring.

Sundarbans is a fascinating place to visit in India, especially if you are interested in wildlife or want to learn about the mangroves and village life in this watery delta. As it is a unique ecosystem, Sundarbans is famous for many rare, endangered, and beautiful animals and birds. Sundarbans is the world’s largest mangrove forest, and a completely unique place in India in terms of geographical features and culture. 

Sundarbans is the only mangrove forest in the world where tigers are found. A tiger safari in Sundarbans is a very different experience compared to other national parks in India. Here, you will be searching for the elusive Royal Bengal tiger by boat. Plus, the tigers in Sundarbans are unique compared to other tigers as they can survive on salt water and can really swim. They have adapted themselves to hunt inside the swampy mangrove forest and they are smaller in size compared to other tigers. If you see a Royal Bengal tiger during your safari in Sundarbans, consider yourself to be extremely lucky. Due to dense forest and, since you can’t get down on the land from your boat, tiger sighting is extremely difficult here. However, you must visit Sundarban for the experience.

Insider tip for Sunderbans wildlife safari: Keep an open mind while going to Sunderban and enjoy the scenic beauty rather than continuously looking for tigers during the safari. As I said earlier, getting to see a tiger in Sunderban is really tough (I have been to Sunderbans six times and got a quick glimpse of the elusive tiger only once). 

The best way to experience the Sunderbans is to book a tour. It is not only easier in terms of planning, but also cost-effective. 

The best time to go to Sundarbans is from October to April as the weather is extremely pleasant and you can enjoy the breeze while on the boat. The chances of seeing a tiger increase between February to April.

Contributed by Tanayesh Talukdar, who writes Shoestring Travel about travelling the world on a budget. 

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Professional travel writer Mariellen Ward is the founder of award-winning Breathedreamgo. Mariellen has a BA in Journalism and has been travel writing and blogging since 2005. She has won many awards, including a National Tourism Award from Incredible India Tourism, and writes for some of the world’s leading publications including BBC Travel and NatGeo Traveller India.

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Top Places to Visit India: a Month-by-Month Guide

There is no way you could make a round of all the best places to visit in India in one single trip. For once, India is a massive country and chances are you don’t have half a year to dedicate to the top 10 places to visit in India (I may be wrong, mind me). But for that exact same reason, India is spread across four different climate zones , making some areas not so ideal to visit at certain times of the year. So I’ve enlisted the help of my trusted fellow travel bloggers to help you (and me) discover not only which are the top places to visit India and the most famous tourist places in India state wise, but also when the best time is to visit each of them.

Buckle up, it’s gonna be a long one!

Top Places to Visit India: a Month-by-Month Planner

Generally speaking, the best time to visit India is between October and April. This is when you’ll dodge the monsoon to the south and benefit from bright blue skies to the North. Beware that during that time, the North can be quite chilly, especially so in December and January – but this can be appealing for some. April and May are often great value for money as it is somewhere in the shoulder season and weather can still be quite nice everywhere – it can get rainy down south already, however. The northern town of Ladakh is one of the best places to visit in India in Summer. So in short, it’s possible to always find amazing weather anywhere in India!

Table of Contents

Best Places to Visit in India in January

Primetime for top places to visit in India planning! Pretty much anywhere in India will be nice around this time, specifically, many places to visit in South India have wonderful weather in January. Beware that it’s high season and prices might be inflated. The North is nice, but also cold!

Recommended places to visit in January in India: Goa, Kerala, Bangalore, Jaipur, Mumbai, Delhi, Rajasthan

By Lotte from Phenomenal Globe

Delhi is the capital of India and around 20 million people are living within this buzzing metropolitan. This city is a lot to take in, it’s loud, colourful, busy and beautiful all at once. Delhi combines ancient history with modern architecture and an incredible number of restaurants, hotels and attractions and no matter if you are visiting Delhi with kids , as a couple or solo traveller, there is something interesting for everyone. There are plenty of sights to explore in Delhi, give yourself at least three days to visit some of the highlights though don’t expect you’ll be able to cover them all.

A UNESCO Heritage site and a must-visit in Delhi is the Qutab Minar. This 73-meter-high minaret was built in 1192, unfortunately, you cannot climb it. While there is a staircase inside, this is closed to the public. Nevertheless, the Qutab Minar is still worth a visit! If you are looking for an off the beaten path sight, check out the beautiful Humayun’s and Isa Khan Tombs. These colourful Mughal style constructions are the perfect place to watch the sunset. Another impressive building is the Lotus Temple, a symbol of peace created from pure white marble. If you wish to enter the temple, behave respectfully and keep silent at all times. Also, know that photography inside the temple isn’t allowed.

Last but certainly not least, an easy day trip from Delhi is the Okhla Bird Sanctuary Park, where you can see 300 different bird species. This lovely piece of nature feels a world away from frantic Delhi and is a good place to unwind after you’ve explored the city for a couple of days.

Munnar, Kerala

By Greta from Greta’s Travels

If you’re looking for the best places to visit in India, you have to add Munnar to your bucket list. Munnar is a town in the southern region of Kerala. It’s a small town surrounded by rolling hills covered with tea plantations. Munnar is one of the best places to visit in South India if you love spending time outdoors. In Munnar, you can visit the tea plantations, explore Lakkam Waterfalls or discover the many hiking trails in Eravikulam National Park.

We spent a whole day visiting the tea plantations of Munnar and found it to be a fascinating experience. We drove 4×4 jeeps on the dirt track roads of the plantations, met the women who work as tea leaf pickers and visited the factory where the leaves are dried and processed into the tea we drink. It’s very different from other parts of India, which makes it all the more worthy of a visit. Located high in the hills, the climate is considerably cooler than the surrounding low-lying regions, which is why British colonials used to come to Munnar to escape the Indian heat.

In Munnar, you can relax and explore beautiful natural landscapes, meet friendly locals and taste delicious Indian cuisine. It’s without a doubt one of the best places to visit in India.

By Alina from World of Lina

Welcome to Bangalore – Asia’s Silicon Valley! The city of Bangalore in the state Karnataka is among the less touristy and best cities in India and it’s mostly not on a traveller’s India itinerary. Nevertheless, the bustling and modern tech city is definitely worth a visit. Besides the many skyscrapers who form the skyline of the city, there are also quite a few cultural places to check out. One of them is Bangalore Palace, a former royal palace now mostly used as an event location. It’s located in the northern part of the city and one of the main tourist attractions. Inside you find beautiful rooms with colourfully patterned walls and breathtaking chandeliers hanging from the ceiling. The lovely gardens surrounding the building are great for a short walk.

Another one of the top places to visit India not to miss is the ISKCON Temple – Bangalore’s biggest and most famous temple. It’s actually not only one but three temples. On the way to the main building are two smaller temples – both having statues of the god Krishna in it.

Once inside the main temple, you’ll be stunned by the beautifully decorated golden entrance hall. It’s the place where people come together to sing and pray which is all part of a holy ritual. To get a break from the bustling city life, head to Cubbon Park. More than 600 different trees and plants and an area of 100 acres make it the perfect place for an extensive walk.

Best Places to Visit in India in February

February is much the same as January – almost everywhere in India is accessible and gorgeous — beware that places to visit in North India might still be very cold, but you’ll be rewarded with amazing mountain views as the fog starts lifting up. Just make sure to bring extra warm clothes!

Recommended places to visit in february india: Agra, Goa, Kerala, Calcutta, Mumbai, Jaipur, Delhi

Patnem Beach, Goa

I fell in love with Goa back in 2015 when I did my Yoga instructor certification and have returned a couple of times since. In part for the beaches of Goa , in part for the people, in part for the food, but in large part for this little town called Patnem Beach .

Patnem is nothing more than a little strip of sandy beach sprinkled with some very rudimentary shacks for accommodation, some little independent cafes, a few yoga studios, and nothing more, aside perhaps quite a few stray cows. It’s my dream secret place for some peace and quiet in the whole of Goa and February is generally a great time to visit as the peak season is slowly starting to wind down, but the weather is still amazing. There’s a great selection of vegan food and some neat little shops to buy souvenirs and snacks. To me, Goa is one of the best places to visit in South India.

There’s very little to do in Patnem Beach, and it’s the whole reason why it is to me one of the top places to visit India has to discover. For a little extra action, you can always rent a scooter and make your way to Palolem where the party scene is a bit more lively — but personally, I’m just here for the yoga and chill in Patnem. Patnem is on my personal dream places to visit in India list for sure.

By Diana from The Globetrotting Detective

Kumarakom is a small charming village in the backwaters of Kerala. As opposed to Alappuzha which is a big city, in Kumarakom, you will experience how rural life is in the backwaters. In Kumarakom, the locals will greet you everywhere as if they have known you for years. Locals in Kumarakom are so friendly to newcomers that you will feel you are at home. In Kumarakom, the villagers move around either in a fishing boat, by bicycle, or motorcycle. By car, it’s not possible to get access to most places in the backwaters as the alleys are too narrow.

As for how to discover Kumarakom, the best is to get everything organized by your hotel. I recommend the Kumarakom Heritage Resort. There, you can rent a bicycle and bike along the backwaters. Moreover, you should also discover the backwaters in a boat, both in a shikhara and a fishing boat. With a fishing boat, you will also have access to the very narrow backwaters as well. So, what makes Kumarakom very different from other places that most tourists know in the backwaters is that you can really feel to be part of local life there. While walking or cycling around Kumarakom, you can witness how local men collect coconuts by climbing on the coconut trees, how they fish, how local women pick and organize ginger in the forest, and how women harvest in the paddy fields. Next to the paddy fields, you can even join local men in a shanty for a sweet palm wine with fried fish and boiled tapioca. They will be very happy to see that you are interested in tasting their local drinks and snacks.

Best Places to Visit in India in March

March is generally great everywhere in India, in part because, for many, it is the end of the tourism season so there are starting to be fewer people, but the weather is still mostly great everywhere. March is also a great time to visit India because of Holi, the famous Hindu festival of colours. The “best places to visit in the March India” list is much the same as January and February!

Recommended places to visit in March in India: Goa, Kerala, Delhi, Agra, Rishikesh, Jaipur, Varanasi, etc

By Stefan from Nomadic Boys

Our favourite destination in India is Varanasi, the Holy City, where people come to die! That’s right, families bring the bodies of their loved ones to Varanasi to cremate them along the banks of the holy Ganges river. Hindu scriptures say that dying and getting cremated along these sacred riverbanks allows you to break the cycle of rebirth and attain salvation. For us as spectators, walking along the riverbank is quite a sight to behold – bodies piled ready for their turn to be cremated in the funeral pyres as the onlooking priests chant in unison with the dead person’s family, praying for the release of the dead person’s soul.

But that’s what we love about Varanasi. It’s so raw, so real, everything done out in the open. The Ganges River is sacred and revered by Hindus because it is meant to embody the goddess Gaṅgā. Therefore, pilgrims head here in large numbers every day to bathe in the sacred River. By day, people come here to meditate and even do their laundry in the river. By night people come to watch the group of priests perform the really beautiful “Agni Pooja” (Worship to Fire) prayer ceremonies to Lord Shiva. All this activity gives Varanasi this unique and quite mystical atmosphere that even as a non-Hindu you really feel and connect with it! One of the best places to visit in India!

As a gay couple travelling in India we knew Varanasi would be a more conservative city compared to places like Mumbai and Bangalore, so we were cautious about being openly gay, such as avoiding PDAs. Yet despite this, we left feeling mesmerised by the atmosphere of the city, which we’ll never forget!

Kerala Backwaters

By Veronika from Travel Geekery

The Kerala backwaters are a system of rivers, lakes, and lagoons, all interconnected and covering a large area. Water rushing down from the Western Ghats Mountains has created this wetland made up of barrier islands surrounded by water. There are some of the best cities in India on the river shores, and small villages on individual islands, where the only mode of transportation is by boat. While in the past the backwaters were used mostly to transport goods, with the modernization of roads and railways, freight forwarding has moved away from the water. In an initiative to save the livelihoods of local families, the transport boats were rebuilt into houseboats.

So what is it like to experience the backwaters on a houseboat? You glide through the long canals, watch the swaying palm trees, the fishermen, children playing on the banks… The houseboats are well equipped and feature a crew of two to not just steer the boat but also to cook. The houseboats stop at interesting points, and otherwise, it’s just about the unique cruising experience.

It’s necessary to spend the night on a houseboat. The peaceful and gentle rocking of the anchored boat will put anybody to sleep rather fast. The mornings are early on the backwaters, but the most poetic. Watching the sunrise becomes one of the most magical experiences. So is observing the start of the day for the locals – fishermen placing their nets, people driving their boats to get to work… All waving at you, happy you’re there to support the local communities.

Best Places to Visit in India in April

April can be a busy month for locals because of the Easter Holiday, and some places in the South can get unbearably hot around this time, so the best places to visit in the April India list moves a little up north from now.

Recommended places to visit in April in India: Rajasthan, Jaipur, Delhi, Agra, Mumbai, Darjeeling, Jodhpur

By James from Travel Collecting

Nawalgarh is an underrated town in Northern Rajasthan, off the beaten path but well worth the visit. It is most well-known for dozens of painted havelis and it has some of the best examples of them in the entire country. The small town is located in the Shekhawati area where, in the 17th to 19th centuries, Marwari merchants built large houses (havelis) and decorated them with brightly coloured patterned murals that completely covered the walls. Many of them still exist today and taking a walking tour is a highlight in April. It is recommended to go with a guide, as they can explain more about the buildings and even take you to some local homes in addition to the regular museums.

Highlights include the Murarka Haveli, which is an empty – and incredibly beautiful – building, and the Poddar Haveli, which is a museum and displays highlighting different aspects of Rajasthani culture. In addition to the havelis, Nawalgarh has a small but lively market. Because it is a small town with few tourists, this is also a great place to take workshops to meet local artisans and try your hand at making handicrafts yourself. I took a traditional tie and dye private workshop , which was fascinating; met a local farmer who showed me how to tie a turban and saw a lac bangle-making demonstration. Rajesh at the Tourist Pension arranged them for me, as well as a personal tour of the havelis.

By Kay of Enchanting Texas

Mumbai is one of the best places to visit in India. The financial capital of the country is located on the West Coast and is very popular with travellers for its variety of cultural, historical, and urban attractions. One of the top attractions in Mumbai is the Gateway of India. Built during the British colonial rule, this arch monument has beautiful architecture. It looks majestic and inspiring against the backdrop of the Arabian Sea and is a popular photo op in the city. Many other attractions are located close to the Gateway monument.

Visitors can take a boat cruise around the harbour or take a ferry to see the beautiful Elephanta Caves. Worth noting that not everywhere in India is queer-friendly but this is one where you can safely and openly do lesbian cruises . In the evening, visit the beautiful Marine Drive. This seaside promenade has amazing views of the skyline, is a great place to take a stroll, and has plenty of restaurants surrounding it. The sea views from Marine Drive are stunning, especially during the monsoon season when waves froth near the edge. Mumbai also has a varied culinary scene and world-class shopping for all budgets. Apart from these, Mumbai is also home to a variety of festivals and events like the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival, Ganpati celebrations, and Christmas decorations.

Best Places to Visit in India in May

A lot of Central and South India can be unbearably hot around May, so make either the North or high altitude places your focus as the best places to visit in May in India. And if you think they’re one and the same — you’re wrong! There are seven mountain ranges spread across India and many hill stations to pick from all across the country.

Recommended places to visit in May in India: Shimla, Darjeeling, Shillong, Ooty

By Yukti from Travel With Me 24X7

Ooty is a popular hill station in India. Its original name is Udagamandalam or Ootacamund and is located on beautiful Niligiri hills and ghats in southern India. Also known as Queen of Hills in India due to its charming and dreamy beauty. This misty hill-station with slopes covered in tea gardens is one of the unique kinds of hill-station. Here, you can enjoy the bliss of nature in tea-gardens, or sparkling waterfalls, floral gardens, green valleys, and tribal historical past. The most popular attractions to visit in Ooty are Ooty Lake, Ooty Botanical gardens, Dodabetta Peak, Avalanche lake, Sunset point, taking a ride on Nilgiri mountain railway, Dolphin’s Nose, Ooty’s Rose garden, Emerald Lake, Kalhatty Waterfalls, Tea-gardens estate, and Tea factory tour, shuttling between Coonoor (a famous village in the valley), Colonial architecture and many more. Catherine’s Waterfalls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Ooty and also the second-largest in Niligiri mountain ranges.

Hill-stations are frequently visited in Summer, but Ooty is perfect in winter too with a view fog over the tea-gardens and valley. Not only is Ooty famous for tea-gardens, but you can spot forests with tall eucalyptus trees which adds a beautiful backdrop to Ooty’s beauty. The nearest city from which you can reach Ooty is Mysore and Coimbatore in Tamil Nadu, India.

Ooty is not only famous worldwide for its beauty among tourists, but within film-makers too. Many Bollywood films have been shot here and showcased the serene and breath-taking views of this place. Minimum 5 to 6 days you need to relax at this beautiful place and enjoy the total bliss of nature. Much organic stuff you can buy from here like tea leaves, eucalyptus oil, homemade chocolates, wooden crafts, tribal art, and much more home-grown organic stuff. Ooty earlier was Toda tribal zone but was discovered for tourism in 1820 by Britishers.

Best Places to Visit in India in June

The beautiful region of Ladakh, one of the top places to visit in India, finally opens up in June and is really the highlight of this month! The rest of the country is bracing for monsoon and it’s unbearably hot in most places aside from the North – so places to visit in North India are you best bet in June.

Recommended places to visit in june in india: Ladakh!

By Pubali from Paradise Catchers

The clouds hovering over the barren mountains, the gushing rivers, the blue lakes and the high mountain passes constitute the Ladakh valley, a Himalayan desert in the northernmost part of India. The roads to Ladakh are open only in the summer months between June and September. Driving to the valley from the nearest big cities, like Chandigarh or Manali or Srinagar, is as exciting as the destination. The rest of the year, Ladakh is only reachable by air to the main town of the valley – Leh. Air travel has its own perks. During your flight to Leh, situated at 3,500 meters altitude, you get to admire the aerial view of the snow-capped Himalayas.

A typical itinerary of Ladakh starts in Leh. There are several destinations that can be planned based on your interests. The common destinations include Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri. The Nubra Valley is an actual desert-like area with sand dunes, where the journey takes you through the highest motorable pass of the world – Khardung La. Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri are large pristine blue lakes with their surfaces reflecting the surrounding mighty mountains.

Apart from the popular destinations in Ladakh which is likely one of the best places to visit in India in Summer, there are multiple remote picturesque villages, which are ideal for camping and mountain trekking. These villages, with their agricultural fields, look like oases in this cold desert of Ladakh. The monasteries of the region are also a great way to find some solace between your journeys. Some notable ones are Diskit, Thikse, Lamayuru and Alchi. Tourism in Ladakh has grown significantly over the past decade as it is one of the best places to visit in June in India. Yet the insane beauty of the region still makes it a must-visit destination in India.

Best Places to Visit in India in July

July is another good month for Ladakh and a handful of other places up North, but very little more. While it’s raining and hot everywhere else, some areas of the north are great for trekking. One plus side of the monsoon season is that prices are really low all over India however!

Recommended places to visit in July in India: Dharamshala, Spiti Valley, Ladakh

Best Places to Visit in India in August

Very much like July, August in India is another great month for discounted travel where the monsoon is hitting hard if you dare — but also warm hikes up North.

Recommended places to visit in August in India: Dharamshala, Spiti Valley, Ladakh

Best Places to Visit in India in September

Although the weather can still be iffy and it’s considered the off-season, September officially marks the end of the Monsoon and Rajasthan can be a fantastic value around this time. September is also the last month to visit Ladakh.

Recommended places to visit in September in India: Dharamshala, Rajasthan, Ladakh

By Džangir from Dr Jam Travels

Jaisalmer is a city in the Western Indian state of Rajasthan, located in the centre of the Thar Desert as a part of the ancient Silk road. The city got its name by Jaisalmer fort built in the 12th century by the ruler Jaisal. Because it lies on a yellow sandstone hill with a yellow fort on the top it has the nickname Golden City. The fort is probably the one place you wouldn’t want to miss while there. It is part of UNESCO World heritage. Fort can be admired from afar as it stands out from its surroundings by its height and towers. Also, it is one of the few still living forts, meaning that most of the population is living there. So it is best experienced from inside. Walking around small narrow streets, admiring three rings of fortification, massive four entry gates, beautiful palaces.

Seven Jain temples are the second point of interest here, with rich and detailed ornaments in sandstone. At dusk, you should move to the outskirts of the city to Gadisar Lake and admire temples and birds. While this is a desert expect high temperatures (record 50 degrees Celsius), but nights get cold (record -5 degrees Celsius). One can take a tour on a camel over dunes close to the city or even stay overnight in the desert.

Best Places to Visit in India in October

October marks the beginning of the travel season all over India! The rain stops and gives way to sunshine in the North but the South can still be a bit rainy, so I’d recommend the North as the best place to visit in India in October. October also marks the beginning of Diwali, the gorgeous Hindu festival of lights.

Recommended places to visit in October in India: Agra, Udaipur, Delhi, Jaipur

By Stella Jane from Around the World in 24 Hours

Udaipur is often called one of the most beautiful and best cities in India. In fact, it has even earned the nickname “The Venice of the East” because of the many lakes that surround the city. No trip to Udaipur is complete without taking a ride on one of the boats that explores these beautiful lakes. The public boats are affordable and offer fantastic views. The top attraction in Udaipur is its centrally located City Palace. This palace is fascinating to visit because it was originally built in the 16th century. But each Maharana who ruled here added different architectural features and rooms, so the palace is now an unusual combination of many different styles.

Because Udaipur is so beautiful, it has been used as a location for many films. One of the most famous is The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel. Visitors to Udaipur can even stay at the Jagat Niwas Palace Hotel where some of the movies was filmed and enjoy the amazing views from the rooftop. Even if you can’t stay there, you can always stop in for lunch.

Udaipur is also a wonderful city for exploring on foot and one of the best places to visit in India with friends. Head into some of the local shops like Sapna Saree Emporium and get ready to bargain. Afterwards, stop in the Jagdish Temple, which is especially beautiful at night. Keep in mind that it is an important religious site, so no photo taking is allowed and neither are shoes.

By Sally from our3kidsvtheworld

Jaipur is the capital of Rajasthan state and once home to the Indian Royal Family that ruled the region in 1700s. There are so many palaces and significant historic buildings in Jaipur in particular around the Old City also affectionately known as the Pink City. Jaipur is a city of three million people and does have issues with traffic and overpopulation, however much of India suffers the same fate.

The main tourist attraction is the Amer Fort, a fort/palace made from red sandstone and white marble, it was constructed in the 1500s by Raj Man Singh I. The Amer Fort is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and holds a significant history of the Rajasthan area. Hawa Mahal, built in 1799 is probably the most photographed Jaipur tourist attraction, the pink structure consisting of five storeys containing various windows is where royal women would watch life and processions taking place in the city. Hawa Mahal is very close to Jantar Mantar, a collection of 19 architectural astronomical instruments completed in 1734. Also a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to the world’s largest stone sundial. There are many other attractions worth visiting in Jaipur such as City Palace, Jal Mahal, Albert Hall Museum, Birla Temple and these are only a few. If Jaipur isn’t on your India bucket list, you should consider placing it on and get there soon.

Best Places to Visit in India in November

November is likely the best month to travel anywhere in India as it is not yet so busy with the Christmas holidays, the Diwali festival is still going, and the weather is gorgeous pretty much everywhere.

Recommended places to visit in November in India: Chennai, Goa, Mumbai, Rajasthan, Mysore, Kerala

Mahabalipuram

By Anuradha from Country Hopping Couple

Mahabalipuram is a port city located in the Kanchipuram district near Chennai. It is one of the famous tourist attractions and a must-visit place in India. Mahabalipuram was once a flourishing port city during the Pallava Kingdom, who ruled the Southern part of India during the early 7th century. Today Mahabalipuram is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to a collection of stunning 7th-century rock monuments. The site has 40 ancient monuments, monolithic temples and rock carvings that depict stories and tales of Hindu epic.

Shore Temple is one of the most popular landmarks among the entire monument list that sits right next to the shore. Another stunner monument is Arjuna’s Penance (giant open-air rock relief carved out of two monolith boulders). The sculptures depict the scenes from Mahabaratha, and there are as many as 146 carvings.

Also worth visiting are Pancha Rathas (five chariots, each carved out of a monolith stone), a series of rock-cut caves, known as Mandapas, Krishna’s butterball (a huge boulder standing on the tip of the rock) and the lighthouse. Seeped with a rich history, Mahabalipuram is a testimony of a well-preserved legacy of the bygone era and depicts exemplary craftsmanship of Indian architecture. Best time to visit Mahabalipuram is between October to March.

Best Places to Visit in India in December

December is another peak month for great weather anywhere in India. The downside is that it is so popular and is likely — in part also because of Christmas — the most expensive month to travel to India. The South of India is really at its peak in December, while the North is nice but can have very chilly and foggy mornings and evenings. Plan and book well in advice to avoid any bad surprises in December!

Recommended places to visit in December in India: Jodhpur, Chennai, Goa, Mumbai, Rajasthan, Mysore, Kerala

by Linn Haglund of Brainy Backpackers

Jodhpur is known as the Blue City and one of the most beautiful places in Rajasthan . With one of the most prominent forts of the region, Mehrangarh Fort, overlooking the blue-painted houses that make out the city, Jodhpur is a must-visit in India. The fort is without a doubt the main attraction with temples, museums, and palaces inside its walls. Other places of interest include Umaid Bhawan Palace, which houses Jodhpur’s former royal family and is one of the world’s largest residential palaces. Parts of the palace is a museum displaying the royal family’s history and an implausible collection of classic cars, while another part is set as a luxury hotel. Another important landmark in Jodhpur is the Jaswant Thada which is a mesmerizing marble memorial house built by Maharaja Sadar Singh.

While in Jodhpur, make sure you visit the Sardar Market. This is where you will experience everyday life, people buying and selling goods, from colourful saris to traditional jewellery. You can easily find the market by the Clock Tower. You can also wander around the Mandore Garden outside the city to enjoy a beautiful green space. This place was once the Pratiharas capital, the rulers before the Mehrangarh Fort was built. You can still see the ancient ruins from the 6th century.

Chand Baori Stepwell

By Chris from The Aquarius Traveller

Would you like to visit one of the hidden secrets of India, then maybe the Chand Baori Stepwell might be what you’re looking for. The Chand Baori is one of the oldest and largest stepwells located in Rajasthan. It was built by King Chanda of the Nikumba Dynasty during the 8th/9th Century. This is a four-sided 30-metre deep Baori, which has a double flight of steps on three sides with a large temple on the back of the building. The northern side consists of a multi-storeyed corridor supported on pillars and two projecting balconies. These pavilions are decorated with carved jharokhas and house some beautiful sculptures. The 3500 steps are arranged in perfect symmetry and lead five or six storeys below the ground.

In prior days, the stepwells were built in arid regions to help provide water all year round to the locals. The area would see seasonal monsoons with water disappearing immediately. As soil ponds would not hold water for long, the stepwells were a practical solution. They were not only a source of drinking water for locals and travelling between towns, but a way to access cool sanctuaries for bathing, prayer and meditation. These days, it’s not used as a well but the history and construction attract local and international tourists each year. If you look hard enough, you might even see some remnants of the lime-based paint used to colour the walls. Be amazed at the geometric maze and plan for the Chand Baori Stepwell on your next visit.

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Best Places To Visit In India: Destinations For Every Month

Wish to know about India's best secrets and hidden gems? Explore 'Mera Shandar Bharat, Safar Anokhey India Ka' to plan your next holiday!

This travel calendar is my gift to travellers with several places to visit in India on their bucket list. Curated with much research and enthusiasm, it lists the best places to visit in India , from every state, and the best time to visit them. Read on for vacation goals for an entire year. Enjoy!

Places To Visit In India In January

Auli: Kickstart the new year with an incredible adventure in the snow-clad meadows of Auli Bugyal in Uttarakhand. Ski down the glistening snow on the slopes that transform Auli into a winter wonderland, which makes January the best time to visit Auli. It is one of the most dream-like places to visit in India.

Haridwar is the nearest railhead at a distance of 273 km from Auli and the nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun.

Read more: Auli, the winding road and a twist at every turn by Shipra Dubey .

Image Credits: Anuj Kumar Garg

Chilika Lake

Chilika Lake Bird Sanctuary: Visit Asia's largest salt-water lagoon in Odisha in January, when the migratory birds arrive at their wintering ground. The mystical sight of flamingos and Irrawaddy dolphins at this time of the year make it just the right spot on the map for your escape.

Bhubhaneshwar Airport is the closest airport, 95kms from Chilika. Regular trains are available from major Indian cities to Chilka (CLKA). The nearest bus stand to Chilka is Satpada.

Read More: Best of Orissa- A Ten Day Itinerary by Vartika Sharma

Image Credits: Mike Prince

Diu: These beaches of the west coast are some of the most serene places to visit in India and make for a perfect trip for the first month of the year. Enjoy parasailing and wind surfing at Nagao Beach and Ghoghla Beach and behold the vision of the clearest sky above the vast Arabian Sea.

Diu is well connected to major cities of India by bus. The nearest railway stations to this destination are Somnath (SMNH) and Veraval (VRL). Regular flights are also available from cities across India to Diu Airport (DIU).

Read More: Diu- An Underrated Coastal Heaven by Harleen Kalsi

Image Credits: Mittermaniac

Places To Visit In India In February

Nasik : Fun, food, fashion, wine and music – that's Sula Fest for you. The first week of February will give you a weekend to remember. Sula Fest in Nashik is a party-goer's paradise with music performances by internationally-acclaimed artists, great food to go with the wine, the fantastic energy of the crowds and a tent site where you can sleep under the stars.

Nashik is one of the best places to visit in India by road for people in Mumbai . For travellers reaching Nashik from other cities, Mumbai and Pune are the nearest Airports.

Read More: Dolce Vita in the vineyards of Nashik by Harleen Kalsi

Gulmarg: February is an excellent time to get your gear on and go snow boarding and skiing in the the snow-clad meadows of Kashmir . Gulmarg not only becomes the hub of adventure activities in this season but also promises surreal landscapes and a clear night sky for those who want a peaceful vacation. It remains one of the most beautiful places to visit in India .

The nearest airport is in Srinagar , 56 kms from Gulmarg. Taxis and buses are available from Srinagar to Gulmarg everyday at regular intervals.

Read more: Snow-Covered Gulmarg In Photos by Ayandrali Dutta

Image Credits: Peter

Periyar Tiger Reserve

Periyar Tiger Reserve: Visit the home to the wild in Thekkady. Among the best places to visit in India in February, Periyar Tiger reserve is a top choice for wildlife and outdoor photography enthusiasts. During this time of the year, animals spend time near the lake and the forest is at its greenest best.

The destination has a direct link from other popular places to visit in India such as Thiruvananthapuram, Cochin and Kottayam by road and Kottayam is also the nearest railhead.

Read More: Safari in Periyar Tiger Reserve! by Nicolas Zapata

Places To Visit In India in March

Vrindavan: Celebrate the festival of colors, Holi, in one of the most famous places to visit in India that boasts of being the playground of Krishna himself. Located in the district of Mathura, Vrindavan and its surrounding towns make for one of the best heritage tours and places to visit in India.

Vrindavan does not have an airport. The nearest railhead is Mathura Cantt and frequent taxis and buses are available to Vrindavan.

Read More: On the streets of Vrindavan by Deepti Asthana .

Velas Beach

Velas Beach, Ratnagiri: This small coastal village in the Ratnagiri district of Maharastra becomes a travellers' hotspot during the Velas Turtle Festival during this time of the year. Hundreds of Olive Ridley Turtles come to the Velas Beach during this breeding season. The festival dates back to 2006 and is organised by the locals with the help of an NGO, Sahyadri Nisarga Mitra.

Roadways is the usual mode of transport to reach Velas, as the beach is well-connected to all the major cities of Maharashtra.

Read More: Velas - the final journey home by Kush.

Rishikesh Yoga Festival : Visit the yoga capital of India for the biggest yoga festival in the country during the first week of March, which makes this month the best time to visit Rishikesh . Learn the ancient art of meditation from the gurus who gather during the International Yoga Festival to address yoga enthusiasts from all over the world in one of the most peaceful places to visit in India.

Jolly Grant airport in Dehradun is 35 kms away from Rishikesh . Frequent buses are available from other touristy places to visit in India such as Haridwar, Dehradun and New Delhi to Rishikesh everyday.

Read More: If peace is your goal, then Rishikesh needs to be your destination by Ramesh Thampi

Places To Visit In India In April

Mon, Nagaland : The Aoleang festival of the Konyaks from Northern Nagaland is celebrated during the first week of April. The festival is celebrated after the people of the village sow seed in the new fields. This festival is also a celebration that marks the beginning of the new year in the region and visitors experience the rich cultural heritage of northern Nagaland through indigenous dance performances by the locals, music talent shows, songs and games. It is one of the most unexplored places to visit in India.

There are no direct trains or airports connected to Mon. Travellers can reach Bhoju railway station (Assam) and reach Mon via Sonari (7km from Mon). Nearest airport to the destination is in Jorhat, Assam.

Click here to find more information about the Inner Line Permit (ILP)

Read More: The King's Naga-Landing! by Kaveri Mayra

Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir Tulip Festival : South Asia's biggest Tulip Festival takes place during the month of March and April every year. The festival held at Siraj Bagh Chesmahsahi (also known as Indira Gandhi Memorial Garden) in Srinagar makes this month the best time to visit Srinagar when the flowers are in full bloom. Apart from the festival, this time of the year also promises the best climate conditions to explore the nearby places to visit in India such as Gulmarg and snow-covered hilltops surrounding the valley.

Jammu Tawi or Udhampur are the nearest railway stations. Travellers can also reach Srinagar by a local train that starts from Banihal. Visitors can also fly to Srinagar, which is connected to all the major cities of India.

Read More: People of Kashmir Showed Me That Srinagar Is More Than Just Dal Lake and Shikaras

Shillong: Walk up to the top of the Shillong Peak and enjoy the 360‎° panoramic view of the city. Photographers will have the time of their lives witnessing the incredible 18-hole golf course in Shillong. It take almost two hours to reach Mawlynnong from Shillong and this trip could be your chance to explore one of the most interesting places to visit in India. The quaint village is also known as the cleanest village in Asia. Around 20 kms out of the city, on the way to the airport, you can stop by at another one of the mesmerizing tourist attractions in India – Umiam Lake at Barapani.

The nearest airport to Shillong is Umroi Airport at a distance of 25km from the city. The nearest railway station is Guwahati. You can take a bus or hire a taxi to Shillong from there. It takes almost three hours to reach Shillong from Guwahati by bus or a shared taxi.

Read More: Experience eco-tourism in the abode of clouds and sound of waterfalls in Shillong

Image Credits: Masrur Ashraf

Places To Visit In India In May

Ooty : This town in the state of Tamil Nadu is also known as the capital of the Nilgiri Hills where two mountain ranges meet. It is undoubtedly among the most frequented hilly places to visit in India. Botanical Gardens on the slopes of the Doddabetta peak and the small tea factory and museum in Ooty are definitely the must-see spots. Doddabetta Peak in Ooty, at a height of around 8,650 feet, is the highest peak in South India.

Nearest domestic airport from Ooty is Coimbatore at a distance of 88kms. Mettupalyam is the nearest railhead and there are trains connecting Ooty to Chennai, Coimbatore, Mysore and Bangalore. Ooty is just a road trip away from Bangalore via Mysore or via Chamarajanagar.

Read More: Ooty, a ride into the heavenly Nilgiris by Rahul Arora

Gangtok : Head to the hills of Sikkim along the Teesta River and reach the gorgeous capital city, Gangtok . The numerous hilltops such as Ganesh Tok and Hanuman Tok; monasteries namely Rumtek and Enchey monastery, and scenic viewpoints around the city of Gangtok are some of the top places to visit in India. They make this location an absolute delight especially during May when the pleasant climate make it the best time to visit Gangtok.

Nearest airport to Gangtok is Bagdogra Airport near Siliguri. There are frequent taxis and buses available to reach Gangtok from Siliguri.

Read more: Gangtok, A piece of heaven for the mankind by Monojit Mandal

Kasol : Get a taste of the hills of Himachal Pradesh during the pleasant summer time. The hill town of Kasol and the entire Parvati Valley is a hub of travellers throughout the year. During the month of May, the best time to visit Kasol, the hikes around this town leading to other attractive places to visit in India such as Kheerganga, Malana and Rasol offer the best scenic trails to adventure lovers.

Bhuntar is the nearest airport, though not frequently used. Buses are available from all the major cities to Bhuntar or Manali. Taxis and local buses take you to Kasol, which is 30kms from Buntar.

Read More: Kasol and its magic by Himani Khatreja

Places To Visit In India In June

Ladakh: The arrival of the summers is also an invitation to travellers from across the world to visit one of the most surreal places to visit in India that has become the Indian traveller's Mecca, Ladakh. The roads via Manali and Srinagar open routes to Leh, the capital city of Ladakh and the marvelous places to visit in India that lie on the route to Leh are the sight to behold. Leh Palace, Shey Palace, Thiksey Monastery, Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri are some of the highlights of all the places to visit in India that are at their scenic best during this time of the year.

Travellers can choose to fly to Leh directly. Alternative road routes to reach Leh are (1) From Srinagar via Zoji La, (2.) From Manali via Tanglang La. These routes will allow you to spend some time in other alluring places to visit in India as well.

Read more: Ladakh Diaries, Your Checklist to Manali-Leh by Srishti Jugran

Kodaikanal : Sometime in the middle of the year, take a trip to the quaint little hill station of South India, Kodaikanal . Kodai Lake, Pillar rocks and the surrounding pine forests together make Kodaikanal one of the most peaceful places to visit in India to spend your vacation. Vattakanal a nearby village is also an emerging backpacking destination.

Nearest airport to Koidaikanal is Madurai. Regular bus services are also available for Kodaikanal from Chennai and Coimbatore.

Read More: Above the Clouds & Between the Seas! A Road Trip to Kodaikanal & Dhanushkodi by Anurag K

Image Credits: Thangaraj Kumaravel

Places To Visit In India In July

Orchha state.

Orchha, Madhya Pradesh : This hidden heritage city in the heart of India is one of the choicest places to visit in India for travellers interested in history, art and culture. The ancient temples and palaces around the city such as Raja Ram Temple, Jahangir Mahal and Rai Praveen Mahal are surely must visit places to visit in India for travellers in Orchha .

Orchha can be a great pit-stop for a road trip around the exciting places to visit in India, namely Agra, Gwalior and Khajuraho. Jhansi is the nearest railhead and Gwalior serves as the nearest airport to Orchha.

Read More: Orchha, The hidden gem by Bhawna Sati

Image Credits: Prashant Ram

Valley of Flowers National Park

Valley Of Flowers : July is just the right time of the year to experience the wonders of nature at the Valley Of Flowers trek in Uttarakhand. 300 kms north of Rishikesh, the trek starts from a distant village in Uttarakhand, Govindghat. The trek through the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve promises the valley in full bloom during July, August and September.

Valley of Flowers is located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand and the last motorable road will take you to Govindghat, 500 kms from New Delhi and almost 300kms from Haridwar.

Read More: Witness Heaven in Nature’s Own Valley: The Valley of Flowers Trek, Uttarakhand by Tushar Chatterji

Mahabaleshwar

Mahabaleshwar and Panchgani : The two towns together make the best getaway destination for people from Mumbai and are some of the finest places to visit in India. The vast and endless plateau of Mahabaleshwar is surrounded with hills on all sides. Wilson or Sunrise Point is the highest point in the town at 1439 m. Other scenic locations in the town include Kate's Point and Connaught Peak.

Nearest airport is Pune , around 120 km from Mahabaleshwar. Nearest railway station is in Satara, however Pune remains the most frequently used railhead.

Read More: Finding the serenity at Mahabaleshwar by Drashti Buch

Image Credits: Ankur P

Places To Visit In India In August

Spiti valley.

Spiti Valley: Take the road trip of a lifetime to the stunning Himalayan desert in the state of Himachal Pradesh. The district of Lahaul and Spiti promise some of the best places to visit in India for exploration on a road trip that start from Manali, via Chandrataal, Kee, Kibber, Komic, Tabo and Nako.

Travellers can reach Spiti Valley via two routes: (1.) via Manali (2.) via Shimla. Buses are available everyday from New Delhi to Manali and Shimla. You can hire a taxi or go on a self-driven exploration from Manali and Shimla to Spiti.

Read More: Hitchhiking Through Spiti Proved That Himachal Is Safest For Solo Female Travellers by Disha Kapkoti

Image Credits: 4Ocima

Karjat : Karjat is one of the best places to visit in India around Mumbai during the rainy month of August. The exciting trekking places to visit in India around Karjat include Chanderi Fort Trek, Matheram Trek and Peth Fort Trek. Replete with opportunities for visitors Karjat is also famous for picturesque places to visit in India that are nearby such as the scenic vistas of Ulhas Valley, Bhor Ghat and Kondana Caves.

Karjat is at an hour's distance from Mumbai and it's also well-connected to all the major cities of Maharashtra. Karjat railway station is also connected to Mumbai and Pune.

Read More: Journey filled with fireflies at Kothaligad, Karjat by Kristine Rathod

Image Credits: Ramnath Bhat

Munnar : 6000ft above sea level, Munnar lies in the Idukki district of Kerala. This erstwhile British tea plantation location is still one of the most desired vacation places to visit in India for travellers. Eravikulam National Park, Mattupetty and waterfalls of Chinnakanal & Anayirangal are some great places to visit in India to checkout while in Munnar.

Cochin International Airport and Madurai International Airport are the nearest airports. State run and private buses are available from major towns of Kerala and Tamil Nadu to take you to Munnar.

Read More: A visit to God's own country-Allepey, Munnar by Soumili Chandra

Image Credits: Paulthy

Places To Visit In India In September

Kinnaur : This corner of Himachal Pradesh is not just known for the best apples in India but also for the hidden places to visit in India around the Kinnaur District that make for a great exploration hub. Visit the caves of Tabo, the quaint village of Nako and the nearby town of Kalpa.

Kinnaur makes for one of the most enthralling places to visit in India by road for travellers from Delhi reaching Kinnaur via Shimla. Buses and taxis are also available from Shimla and Rampur. You can also reach Kinnaur from Manali via Spiti.

Read More: The Mystical Land, Kinnaur by Sachinder S. Rathore

Image Credits: Sachinder S. Rathore

Wayanad : Visit the land of the paddy fields during the best time of the year to experience the peaceful Wayanad. The best way to experience Wayanad is to explore the natural wonders through hiking. Some favourable hiking trails are to Sahibkkunnu, hike to Kurisumala Peak and Chembra Peak. Wildlife sanctuaries around the region, namely Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary and Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, are some of the most splendid places to visit in India.

Wayanad is Karipur international airport at Kozhikode is the closest airport. Kozhikode is also the nearest railhead, which is 110 km from Wayanad.

Read More: Wayanad- The Land of Collective Beauty in Kerala by Purnima Manhas

Image Credits: Kalidas Pavithran

Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Andaman and Nicobar Islands : These islands are unrivalled places to visit in India. Visit Corbyn's Cove beach, North Bay Island and Ross Island. Experience the light and sound show at the cellular jail. Watch the majestic sunset at Radhanagar beach and enjoy snorkelling at the Elephant Beach on Havelock Island.

The best way to reach Andaman and Nicobar Islands is to take a flight from the major cities of India (New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai or Kolkata) to Port Blair. Passenger ships are also available from Chennai, Kolkata and Vishakhapatnam to Port Blair.

Read More: Offbeat India, Andaman and Nicobar Islands by Aashna Jain

Places To Visit In India In October

Kaas plateau of flowers.

Kaas Valley : One of the most interesting places to visit in India and declared as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Kaas Plateau is a mini valley of flowers in Maharashtra. After the rains are over, Kaas is one of the most wonderful places to visit in India which makes for a remarkable weekend getaway destination from Mumbai, giving opportunities for visitors to explore the outdoors. Trails along the valley would help you study the hundreds of species of flowers in the region.

Best way to reach Kaas from Mumbai is by taking the Mumbai-Pune Expressway and NH4 upto Satara. The Kaas Plateau is about 22 km from Satara.

Read More: Riya Mukherjee's trip to Kaas Plateau.

Image Credits: Riya Mukherjee

Coorg : With astonishing variety of flora and fauna, vast expanse of coffee plantations and stunning waterfalls, Coorg is on the bucket list of places to visit in India for many curious travellers. Some of the must visit places in Coorg include Dubare Elephant Camp, Abbey falls, Brahmagiri Peak and Iruppu Falls.

Nearest airport to Coorg is Mangalore International Airport. Mysore is the nearest railhead, about 120 kms away from Coorg. Bus services connects Coorg to all the major cities of Karnataka through KSRTC bus services.

Read More: Disconnect and let the Wild sink in at Coorg (Kodagu) by Pratiksha Mohanty

Pushkar : October serves as the best time to visit Pushkar , a Hindu pilgrimage centre that is one of the most revered places to visit in India. It has lately emerged as the new hippie hub in the state of Rajasthan. Apart from the Brahma temple and the majestic Pushkar Lake, the city is also known for the countless cafe-hopping spots that are an absolute delight to any visitor on a tour of the aesthetic places to visit in India.

Best way to reach Pushkar is to take a road trip from Delhi via Ajmer. Ajmer is also the closest railway station to Pushkar at a distance of around 11kms.

Read more: 8 Things To Do in Ajmer and Pushkar by Bidisha

Image Credits: Purblind

Places To Visit In India In November

Cherrapunjee.

Cherrapunji : Visit the Northeast India during the pleasant winters. Nohkalikai Falls, Mawsmai Cave, Dainthlen Falls are some of the best spots to get the best of Cherrapunji . A short drive away from Cherrapunji is the living root bridge at Mawlynnong, which is also the cleanest village in Asia.

Guwahati Airport connects Meghalaya to most of the major cities. The nearest railhead to Cherrapunji is also Guwahati. Shared taxis and buses are available from the railway station to Shillong and nearby locations.

Read More: An Abode of Clouds - Shillong and Cherrapunji! by Shwetha

Image Credits: Arup Malakar

Agumbe : This village in the Shimoga District of Karnataka in the Western Ghats is home to the last remaining low land rainforests. The town of Agumbe is surrounded by a number of reserve forests in the Western Ghats that are some of the most significant places to visit in India, such as Kundapur, Sringeri, Hosanagara and Thirthahalli, which are together known as Agumbe Rainforest Complex.

Mangalore, 108 kms away from Agumbe, is the nearest airport. Nearest railway station at Shimoga is 90 kms away and another railhead Udupi is 55km from Agumbe. You can also take a bus from Bengaluru to Agumbe directly or a bus towards Theerthahlli and another bus from there that can take you to Agumbe.

Read More: Looking For A Vacation Mission? Find The Hidden Malgudi House In India by Disha Kapkoti

Image Credits: Balajirakonda

Lakshadweep

Lakshadweep : Visit Lakshadweep if you are looking for one of the popular places to visit in India for an ultimate beach vacation. Among the best things to do in Lakshadweep some of the best picks are scuba diving in Kalpeni Island and canoeing in Minicoy Island. Agatti Island is also well known for the water sports activities it offers. Kite surfing at Kadamat Island another addition to your list of must-dos in Lakshadweep.

7 passenger ships operate between Cochin and Lakshadweep. Cochin International Airport links Lakshadweep to all the major cities of India. Flight from Cochin to Agatti takes almost 1 hour 30mins.

Read More: Cherrapunji : A place serenely beautiful by Niharika Baruah

Places To Visit In India In December

Varkala : At the end of the year head to the beaches of India. Varkala is a quieter beach destination emerging to be one of the major touristy places to visit in India. Varkala Beach, Thiruvambadi Beach and Edava Beach are some of the most peaceful places to visit in India during your travel to Varkala.

At a distance of 36km, the nearest airport to Varkala is the Thiruvanthapuram Airport. Varkala Station is not a very well-connected railway station and hence, Trivandrum Rail Strip provides better connection to Varkala.

Read More: Why you should chuck Goa for Varkala this time by Roshni MS

Konark : Your journey of exploring the places to visit in India cannot be complete without indulging the marvelous heritage of the country. The Sun Temple of Konark was built on the 13th century and still stands as a symbol of our rich history. The temple lies in the north-eastern corner of the town of Puri and is a noteworthy architectural wonder. Puri is a beach destination, another one of the top places to visit in India, that can also be explored during this getaway.

Closest domestic airport to Konark is the domestic airport at Bhubaneshwar. Puri is the nearest railhead, 31 kms from Konark. State-run buses and taxis connect Konark to the other cities of Odisha.

Read More: Konark temple, an ancient design of passion on rock by Gautam Lahiri

Image Credits: Design Adda

Goa : End the year with the trip to the most happening spot on the map of India during December. Goa ranks the highest on the list of places to visit in India for the beach parties, the celebration during Christmas and adventure sports on the stunning beaches. Visit Anjuna for beach parties, Baga for watersports and Ashwem beach to relax and enjoy spa.

Dabolim Airport, at a distance of 29kms from Panjim, connects Goa to major cities across India. Buses around Goa operate from Panaji, Madgaon and Vasco Da Gama. Madgaon and Thivim are two railway stations connected to cities across the country.

Read More: What happens in Goa, stays in Goa by Sachin Goel

Image Credits: Vinoth Chandar

India is a big and diverse country with a climate that varies with its topography. Deciding when to make a plan for the places to visit in India can be confusing. The list above mentioning the right time to go to the places to visit in India should, therefore, prove to be helpful. Some of the travel destinations in India are pleasant year-long. But taking to a trip to these places to visit in India during the recommended time will surely multiply your enjoyment. Start adding these places to visit in India to your travel calendar for the upcoming months without further ado!

If you have an interesting travel story from any impressive places to visit in India your vacation, click here to share it with us . Share your videos and photographs and connect with like-minded travellers from around the world.

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Jee main results 2024: here is the state-wise toppers list and their scores.

JEE Main Results 2024: The NTA declared the JEE Main Session 2 2024 results, with an increase in students achieving perfect NTA scores. The NTA has also released state-wise toppers list and their scores. The exam took place in 13 different languages: Assamese, Bengali, English, Gujarati, Hindi, Kannada, Malayalam, Marathi, Odia, Punjabi, Tamil, Telugu, and Urdu. For the JEE (Main) – 2024 Session 2, there were 571 distinct examination centers located in 319 cities. This included 22 cities outside India such as Abu Dhabi, Cape Town, Doha, Dubai, Kathmandu, Manama, Muscat, Oslo, Riyadh, Sharjah, Singapore, Kuwait City, Kuala Lumpur, Lagos/Abuja, Colombo, Jakarta, Vienna, Moscow, Port Louis/Reduit, Hong Kong, Bangkok, and Washington D.C. On the other hand, Session 1 was held at around 544 centers across 291 cities, encompassing 21 cities beyond India.

• Andaman & Nicobar Islands Sanjay Sanish 98.4368262
• Andhra Pradesh Chintu Sateesh Kumar 100.0000000
• Andhra Pradesh Shaik Suraj 100.0000000
• Andhra Pradesh Makineni Jishnu Sai 100.0000000
• Andhra Pradesh Thotamsetty Nikilesh 100.0000000
• Andhra Pradesh Annareddy Venkata Tanish Reddy 100.0000000
• Andhra Pradesh Thota Sai Karthik 100.0000000
• Andhra Pradesh Murasani Sai Yashwanth Reddy 100.0000000
• Arunachal Pradesh Ayush Aryan 98.7251752
• Assam Jyotishman Saikia 99.9803683
• Bihar Pratham Kumar 100.0000000
• Chandigarh Vedant Saini 100.0000000
• Chhattisgarh Bhagyansh Sahu 99.9859803
• Dadra and Nagar Haveli Dattaraj Balkrishna Saudagar 99.3950565
• Daman and Diu Hatker Preet Mahesh 97.3956257
• Delhi Shayna Sinha 100.0000000
• Delhi Madhav Bansal 100.0000000
• Delhi Tanay Jha 100.0000000
• Delhi Ipsit Mittal 100.0000000
• Delhi Bhavesh Ramakrishnan Karthik 100.0000000
• Delhi Arsh Gupta 100.0000000
• Goa Supash 99.9445588
• Gujarat Parekh Meet Vikrambhai 100.0000000
• Gujarat Kanani Harshal Bharatbhai 100.0000000
• Haryana Aarav Bhatt 100.0000000
• Haryana Shivansh Nair 100.0000000
• Himachal Pradesh Amrit Kaushal 99.8682144
• Jammu & Kashmir Sushant Padha 99.9775041
• Jharkhand Priyansh Pranjal 100.0000000
• Karnataka Sanvi Jain 100.0000000
• Karnataka Sainavaneet Mukund 100.0000000
• Karnataka Amogh Agrawal 100.0000000
• Kerala Hafiz Rahman Elikkottil 99.9925213
• Ladakh Padma Rigzin 96.3636980
• Lakshadweep Dnyanada Sunil Limbale 94.5520602
• Madhya Pradesh Aditya Pratap Singh Bhadoria 99.9983415
• Maharashtra Gajare Nilkrishna Nirmalkumar 100.0000000
• Maharashtra Dakshesh Sanjay Mishra 100.0000000
• Maharashtra Aryan Prakash 100.0000000
• Maharashtra Muhammed Sufiyan 100.0000000
• Maharashtra Visharad Srivastava 100.0000000
• Maharashtra Patil Pranav Pramod 100.0000000
• Maharashtra Archit Rahul Patil 100.0000000
• Manipur Rohan Singh Leishangthem 98.5366270
• Meghalaya Abhijnan Saraswat Gogoi 98.0996296
• Mizoram John Laldingliana 93.6225375
• Nagaland Md Siddek Ahmed Choudhury 98.8762319
• Odisha Anvesh Subham Pradhan 99.9971643
• Other Pranavanand Saji 100.0000000
• Puducherry M Balakumaran 99.9005378
• Punjab Rachit Aggarwal 100.0000000
• Punjab Aadeshveer Singh 100.0000000
• Rajasthan Aaditya Kumar 100.0000000
• Rajasthan Himanshu Thalor 100.0000000
• Rajasthan Akshat Chaplot 100.0000000
• Rajasthan Yashneil Rawat 100.0000000
• Rajasthan Ishaan Gupta 100.0000000
• Sikkim Priansh Yajnik 99.9462403
• Tamilnadu Mukunth Prathish S 100.0000000
• Tamilnadu N Shriram 100.0000000
• Telangana Hundekar Vidith 100.0000000
• Telangana Muthavarapu Anoop 100.0000000
• Telangana Venkata Sai Teja Madineni 100.0000000
• Telangana Reddi Anil 100.0000000
• Telangana Rohan Sai Pabba 100.0000000
• Telangana Sriyashas Mohan Kalluri 100.0000000
• Telangana Kesam Channa Basava Reddy 100.0000000
• Telangana Murikinati Sai Divya Teja Reddy 100.0000000
• Telangana Rishi Shekher Shukla 100.0000000
• Telangana Tavva Dinesh Reddy 100.0000000
• Telangana Ganga Shreyas 100.0000000
• Telangana Polisetty Ritish Balaji 100.0000000
• Telangana Thamatam Jayadev Reddy 100.0000000
• Telangana Mavuru Jaswith 100.0000000
• Telangana Dorisala Srinivasa Reddy 100.0000000
• Tripura Antareep Ray 99.8213201
• Uttar Pradesh Himanshu Yadav 100.0000000
• Uttarakhand Shivam Agarwal 99.9694856
• West Bengal Ritam Banerjee 99.9972091

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