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Famous Places to Explore in Hyderabad

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One of the oldest civilisations in the world, India is a mosaic of multicultural experiences. With a rich heritage and myriad attractions, the country is among the most popular tourist destinations in the world. It covers an area of 32, 87,263 sq. km, extending from the snow-covered Himalayan heights to the tropical rain forests of the south. As the 7th largest country in the world, India stands apart from the rest of Asia, marked off as it is by mountains and the sea, which give the country a distinct geographical entity.

Fringed by the Great Himalayas in the north, it stretches southwards and at the Tropic of Cancer, tapers off into the Indian Ocean between the Bay of Bengal on the east and the Arabian Sea on the west. As you travel the expanse of the country, you are greeted by diverse nuances of cuisines, faiths, arts, crafts, music, nature, lands, tribes, history and adventure sports. India has a mesmeric conflation of the old and the new. As the bustling old bazaars rub shoulders with swanky shopping malls, and majestic monuments accompany luxurious heritage hotels, the quintessential traveller can get the best of both worlds. Head to the mountains, enjoy a beach retreat or cruise through the golden Thar, India has options galore for all.

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India is a remarkable tourist destination that offers a plethora of experiences to travellers. From the grandiose Taj Mahal, one of the wonders of the world, to opulent palaces and forts, India...

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The legacy of Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the Nation, is perfectly preserved in India. From various museums and memorials to Gandhiji's ashram, there are various stopovers in the country that...

It’s huge, almost gigantic! That is the first reaction most people...

India is a remarkable tourist destination that offers a plethora of...

The glorious ancient history of India withits rich cultural heritage...

India is blessed with heritage riches and a regal lineage. Vestiges...

The legacy of Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the Nation, is perfectly...

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Celebrate With Us

As you travel through the country, be a part of our festivals and feasts

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20 Best Places to Visit in India

Written by Joni Sweet Updated Mar 30, 2022

Deeply traditional yet endlessly surprising, India is one of those destinations that ends up on every traveler's bucket list at some point. They might dream of going to Agra to see the Taj Mahal in all its glory, or exploring the royal palaces scattered throughout Rajasthan. Others find themselves attracted to the jaw-dropping landscapes in Darjeeling and Rishikesh , or the postcard-perfect beaches in Goa.

There's also India's big cities– New Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata –each of which has its own distinctive personality. It's impossible to get bored exploring the temples, markets, and colorful streets of India's biggest urban centers. The hardest part of traveling to India is figuring out exactly what to see on your journey.

Whether you're going on an epic backpacking trip or a luxe vacation, plan your adventure with this list of the best places to visit in India.

2. New Delhi

4. rajasthan, 5. rishikesh, 6. varanasi, 7. amritsar, 10. ajanta and ellora caves, 11. darjeeling, 12. kolkata, 13. ahmedabad, 19. andaman islands, 20. mcleod ganj, map of places to visit in india.

If there was just one symbol to represent all of India, it would be the Taj Mahal . The monument inspires millions of tourists to make the trip to Agra every year, waking up before dawn to see magnificent structure radiate at sunrise. But Agra tops the list of the best places to visit in India for reasons that go beyond India's most famous attraction.

The city in Uttar Pradesh is chock-full of marvelous Mughal monuments , like Itimad-ud-Daulah's Tomb and Akbar's Mausoleum , decked out in hypnotic inlaid marble designs from top to bottom. Plus, tourists can also see another UNESCO World Heritage Site: the Agra Fort. With so many wonders in just one place, Agra is a must-visit city for tourists in India.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Agra

Despite its crowds and chaos, New Delhi offers tourists a lot to love. The colorful capital of India is the perfect marriage of heritage and modernity. Old Delhi contains some of the country's most treasured attractions, including the Jama Masjid, Red Fort, and Chandni Chowk shopping thoroughfare. But throughout the sprawling city, tourists can explore countless other sites of spiritual and cultural importance.

Top tourist attractions in New Delhi include the Lotus Temple; India Gate; Humayun's Tomb; and India's tallest minaret, Qutub Minar. Fill your days exploring these mesmerizing sites, and refueling at street-side chai stalls and high-end restaurants.

Want to see a more cosmopolitan side of India? Head to the energetic, coastal city of Mumbai–home to ultra-wealthy entrepreneurs and the hottest Bollywood actors. Tourists are never far from five-star hotels or gourmet restaurants in this luxe city. And even if those activities are out of budget, a cruise down the beloved Marine Drive will make you feel like royalty as you catch a glimpse of the scenic coast and glamorous Art Deco buildings.

You can also see a more authentic, local side of Mumbai in the bustling "Thieves Market" or at the Churchgate railway station , where hundreds of thousands of homemade lunches are packed up for delivery to the city's office workers every day.

Make sure you devote a day to checking out Sanjay Gandhi National Park and exploring the 2,000-year-old Kanheri Cave carvings.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Mumbai

Translated to "Land of Kings," Rajasthan brims with remnants of the kings and queens of past centuries. Between its glittering palaces , stately forts, and lively festivals, this western state deserves a starring role in your trip to India.

Jaipur , part of the Golden Triangle Tourist Circuit, which also includes Agra and New Delhi, is one of the top places to visit in Rajasthan. Dubbed "The Paris of India," it's known for its characteristic pink buildings, lavish City Palace, and jewelry stores galore.

The "Blue City," Jodhpur , offers tourists an equally unforgettable experience in its hilltop Mehrangarh Fort .

Udaipur oozes romance with its flower-lined streets and fantastic City Palace Complex , where the royal family still lives today.

And Jaisalmer looks like an Arabian Nights fairy tale brought to life, with its yellow sandstone structures and historic havelis (mansions). No matter where you end up in this desert state, you'll be captivated by the magic of Rajasthan.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Jaipur

Rishikesh has been on the radar for spiritually minded travelers since the late 1960s, when the Beatles spent time in Maharishi Mahesh Yogi's ashram –now an abandoned site that has become an off-the-beaten-path tourist attraction for fans.

The town is nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas on the banks of the holy Ganges River, and serves as a center for yoga and pilgrimages . Take part in the action, or just enjoy the sounds of the temple bells and sightseeing from Rishikesh's two suspension bridges , often guarded by assertive families of monkeys. Keep your distance.

One of the oldest continually inhabited cities in the world, Varanasi is arguably the holiest place in India. The spiritual activities take place along the sacred Ganges River, where pilgrims bathe and mourners cremate recently deceased relatives in plain view of passersby.

Tourists, on the other hand, find their own flavor of spiritualism taking sunrise boat rides, releasing floral blessings that float on the river, and watching the fire-filled Hindu chanting ceremonies from the steep ghats.

Away from the water, the streets of the old town twist and turn like an endless maze. Legend has it that there's still no accurate map of Varanasi, and once you experience the labyrinthine city for yourself, you'll be inclined to believe it.

Amritsar, the "Jewel of Punjab," has made its claim to fame with its remarkable Golden Temple . One of the holiest places in the world for Sikhs, the gilded structure is a sight to behold, glistening in the sun and reflecting into the large pool that surrounds it.

The attraction also boasts the world's largest community kitchen , which serves 100,000 diners (including curious tourists!) lentils and curries every day.

While in Amritsar, plan to spend an afternoon at the border of Pakistan to see the Beating Retreat Ceremony. Goose-stepping guards from long-term rivals India and Pakistan open and close the border gates at dusk in an over-the-top ceremony you'll never forget. Get there early to dance to blaring Bollywood music with locals in the streets.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Amritsar

India's not just full of big cities and holy sites–it also has incredible beaches down south in Goa. Its stretches of golden sand along the Arabian Sea offer something for every type of tourist, whether you're interested in hanging out with the backpacker crowd in laid-back beach huts or having a ritzy tropical getaway at a five-star resort.

One unique part of Goa is its blend of Indian and Portuguese cultures. You'll experience the fusion throughout the destination, from its Baroque architecture and cathedrals to its spicy vindaloo curries and seafood dishes.

Head south of Goa, and you'll trade beaches for tranquil backwaters in Kerala. Nothing beats the experience of hopping aboard a traditional thatched-top houseboat in Alleppey (also known as Alappuzha ) and slowly floating through palm-fringed lagoons and rivers, either as a day trip or overnight adventure. You'll enjoy freshly cooked Indian cuisine on the water and breathtakingly beautiful natural sights and wildlife.

Easygoing Kerala is like a breath of fresh air from the intensity of cities like New Delhi and Jaipur up north. Schedule some time here when you're in need of a break from the chaos.

Time travel isn't a reality for travelers quite yet, but you can get pretty close at the Ajanta and Ellora Caves in Maharashtra. Both UNESCO World Heritage Sites , the caves feature intricate carvings from at least 1,500 years ago.

The Ajanta Caves are the oldest of the two attractions, featuring around 30 Buddhist cave monuments cut into the rock as far back as the 2nd century BC.

Around 100 kilometers southwest, the Ellora Caves contain nearly three dozen Buddhist, Jain, and Hindu carvings, the most famous of which is the Kailasa Temple (Cave 16), a massive structure devoted to Lord Shiva that features life-size elephant sculptures . The magnificent carvings at both sites will leave you filled with wonder.

Sightseeing in India doesn't get much better than what you'll discover in Darjeeling. The hill station in West Bengal is beloved for its lush green tea plantations , awe-inspiring snow-capped peaks (including Khangchendzonga , the world's third-highest mountain), and serene Buddhist monasteries. This is the perfect place to arrange a mountain trek or mountain biking adventure.

One of the most popular things to do in Darjeeling is taking a ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. Powered by an antique steam locomotive, the 140-year-old " Toy Train " takes tourists on two-hour fun rides from Darjeeling to Ghum– a journey that's regularly counted as one of the most scenic train rides in the world.

India's third-largest city, Kolkata, is a decaying masterpiece of former British India, brimming with colonial-era architecture . The top things to do in Kolkata include seeing the Victoria Memorial, a white marble monument that features a museum with dozens of galleries, and Park Street, a famous thoroughfare with shops and restaurants that bustle 24/7, especially during the holidays.

But Kolkata is as much about the sites as it is about the emotions. This is a city that will somehow induce every one of your emotions with the highs and lows of life taking place in plain view on every street. Brace yourself, and be open to the experience.

The largest city in Gujarat , Ahmedabad is a noisy, overwhelming metropolis that somehow wins over the tourists who make their way here. The historic city of Ahmedabad earned the coveted title of India's first UNESCO World Heritage City in 2017 for its rich architecture, walls and gates, and significant Hindu and Jain temples.

On the western bank of the Sabarmati River , tourists can wander around Sabarmati Ashram , Gandhi's headquarters from 1917 to 1930. Its museum talks about the life of the Indian hero, and displays his iconic spectacles and spinning wheel. While you're in the city, sample the street food –some say it's the best in all of India.

When the temperatures skyrocket in New Delhi and other cities in North India, tourists and locals alike make their way to cooler climates in the hill stations, the most popular of which is Shimla. The cloudy weather and forested hillsides make for a satisfying escape from the heat, as well as a placid place to spend a weekend or more. The atmosphere in the hilly central part of town, where traffic is banned, is just as pleasant as the scenic outskirts.

While you're in the area, make a reservation on the Kalka-Shimla Railway , a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The 96.6-kilometer-long railroad, which has been running for over a century, is renowned for its stunning views and authentic vintage experience.

While culturally different, South India is as enchanting as the north–just visit Mysore to see for yourself. The third-largest city in Karnataka is considered to be the cultural capital of the state, celebrated for its high-quality silk , Mysore painting tradition, and hypnotic Hindu temples with deity carvings that nearly touch the clouds.

Most tourists visit Mysore to see its World Heritage-listed palace. This attraction takes Indian grandeur to the next level, with endless mirrored decor, stained-glass windows, carved wooden doors, and intricate mosaic floors that look like the inside of a kaleidoscope. The palace is considered to be one of the country's finest examples of Indo-Saracenic design. Be sure to swing by to see the palace at night, when it's lit up with thousands of twinkle lights.

Situated amid the jagged crags of the Karakoram and Zanskar mountain ranges , Ladakh offers tourists the chance to immerse themselves in an awe-inspiring alpine desert. Driving around the region's winding roads comes with one incredible natural view after the next: plunging valleys, gushing rivers, snowcapped peaks, and more. Ladakh's enchanting capital, Leh , stands at 3,500 meters above sea level, so you'll want to spend at least a few days acclimating to the altitude before embarking on any strenuous activities.

Ladakh didn't open to tourists until 1974. Given its difficult-to-reach location and its long-time isolation, the Buddhist-majority region has retained a unique cultural identity and a somewhat "untouched" feel. You'll see Buddhist monasteries and temples all around Leh's Old Town, and countless colorful prayer flags fluttering in the breeze.

Don't miss the nine-story Leh Palace , which dates back to the 17th century, as well as the Shanti Stupa –a monument to world peace. You can also see a superbly sustainable way of life in this traditional community, which receives very little imported goods and remains largely self-sufficient.

In a country as sweltering as India, it's a relief to find cool weather in hill stations all over the country. Manali happens to be one of the most popular among local and foreign tourists alike. Located in Himachal Pradesh , the high-altitude resort town in the Himalayas makes an easy getaway from Jaipur, New Delhi , or Punjab. The tourist-friendly Old Manali neighborhood brims with chilled-out cafés; great restaurants; and home-stay accommodations, where visitors can experience a local way of life.

Manali is also a convenient base if you want to experience the great outdoors in this beautiful region of North India. From here, you can go trekking in the Parvati Valley, paragliding and mountaineering in the Pir Panjal mountains, and white-water rafting down the Beas River. Outfitters around the town can assist with all the arrangements and gear rentals.

Take one look at Kodagu's hilly emerald landscape perpetually blanketed by a cloud of mist, and you'll instantly see why this hill station is nicknamed "the Scotland of India." Previously called Coorg, the affluent area's biggest draws are its coffee and spice plantations . Tours of historic agricultural sites give tourists up-close views of how these foods are grown and produced. The lush scenery also makes for great bird-watching and trekking , especially in the Western Ghats.

Other popular things to do in Kodagu include seeing the 21-meter Abbey Falls gushing after the rainy season, hearing the chants of young monks at the Namdroling Monastery's famous Golden Temple, visiting the 17th-century Madikeri Fort , and watching elephants take a bath at Dubare Elephant Camp.

Andaman Islands are the go-to place in India if you're looking for a classic beach vacation. They'll treat you to powder-white sand beaches flanked by coconut palms, pastel-streaked sunsets, the turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea, and dense jungle landscapes. No postcard could possibly capture the majesty of this gorgeous destination.

Its ultra remote location, closer to Indonesia than mainland India, presents challenges for those who want to step foot on one of the few dozen islands open to tourists. You'll need to take a domestic flight from a major Indian city, such as Chennai, New Delhi, or Mumbai . Or, you can brave one of the long-distance ferry rides across the Bay of Bengal .

The effort can be well worth the reward, though. You'll have some of India's best beaches almost all to yourself, and the chance to see rare birds and thriving coral reefs. Culture hounds and history buffs will also relish exploring the Victorian British ruins on Ross Island , which are slowly being engulfed by the jungle.

Did you know you can visit the home of the Dalai Lama on a trip to India? The Tibetan spiritual leader's base can be found at the Tsuglagkhang complex , a monastic village in the hill station of McLeod Ganj.

Most afternoons, you can see monks passionately debate one another in the central courtyard. Make your way around the complex to see pilgrims (many of whom are in exile from Tibet) spinning prayer wheels and prostrating in prayer, along with the temple and throne on which the Dalai Lama delivers his teachings. There's also a small Tibet Museum on-site, which gives tourists a deeper understanding of the struggle Tibetans face amid Chinese occupation through moving photo exhibits and a video.

The Tsuglagkhang complex alone makes it well worth a visit to McLeod Ganj, but you can also check out a range of other attractions throughout Dharamsala. Watch artisans teach and practice traditional Tibetan art, like woodcarving and thangka painting at the Norbulingka Institute . Make the nine-kilometer trek up Triund Hill to catch views of the mighty Dhauladhar mountain range. And on your way to the Bhagsu Waterfalls , make a stop at the Bhagsunag Temple to see the ancient sacred pools, believed to be filled with healing waters.

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2 Weeks in India 2024/2025: Top 4 Itineraries

India is a really big country. 2 weeks might not be enough to see all of India, but you can explore a region or two, such as the popular golden triangle with Rajasthan in the west or with a trip to Goa in the south.

Some off-the-beaten-path routes like the northern frontier or southern Kerala are also recommendable for 2 weeks.

Check out the above itinerary ideas and more on this page.

• Best 2-Week India Itinerary for Couples/Families
• Best 2-Week India Itinerary: Golden Triangle + Rajasthan

Best 2-Week North India Itinerary

• Best 2-Week South India Itinerary

How Much Does It Cost to Tour India for 2 Weeks?

The best 2-week india itinerary for couples/families.

For a family trip in India, we recommend the classic golden triangle (Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur), a tiger safari tour, and some family beach time .

This itinerary also works well for couples looking for a romantic holiday of awesome sights, exotic adventures, and relaxation together.

It covers India's most classic cities covering culture, history, and nature, at a relaxing and enjoyable pace.

Here is the suggested itinerary:

• Days 1–2: Delhi

Days 3–4: Agra

• Day 5: Tiger safari in Ranthambore
• Day 6–7: Jaipur

Days 8–9: Mumbai

• Days 10–13: Goa beach time
• Day 14: Departure

The capital Delhi is ideal for spending 1 or 2 days. There you can explore its highlights, like the Red Fort, Humayun's Tomb, and Qutub Minar. These will help you learn about Indian Muslims and India's Islamic past.

Take a auto rickshaw to discover Chandni Chowk, the oldest market in Delhi, where you can catch the vibe of local people's lifestyle in Old Delhi.

The journey between Delhi and Agra is about a 5-hour drive. A point-to-point private transfer is more flexible, easy, and efficient than using a train or bus. Direct flights are not available.

You will need about at one full day to explore Agra's famous Taj Mahal , Agra Fort, and the baby Taj.

During the sunrise, when the morning sunlight gently kisses the pure white Taj, you'll find the best time to take a family photo.

Day 5: Ranthambore

Ranthambore National Park is the best place to do a tiger safari . You will travel in a jeep for an adventure in the jungle. See Bengal tigers, bears, leopards, jackals, elephants, striped hyenas, bison, monkeys, and several types of deer.

Days 6–7: Jaipur (the Pink City)

Jaipur, the pink city, got its name as its Mughal architecture is mostly painted pink. There you can explore the secret of its most famous palace — 'Palace of the Winds' — and find out how it got its name.

You can walk into Amber Fort and learn about its glorious history, and have an unforgettable dinner at the fort like members of the royal family.

Visit Jaipur's Jantar Mantar, the world's biggest stone sundial, where you can learn about the wisdom of the India's Mughal Dynasty.

Head to Mumbai with a 2-hour flight. Spend 1 or 2 days to explore India's biggest city.

Start with a Bollywood trip in Mumbai, which is especially recommended for kids. You can visit a shooting set, change into Indian clothes, and watch a Bollywood dance show.

There you can also explore many iconic buildings , such as the Gateway of India and Dhobi Ghat, which is a large open-air laundry.

Days 10–13: Goa

A flight from Mumbai to Goa is about 1–1½ hours.

You will be surprised to see the Baroque style of its old town area. Its many churches and monasteries that are on the World Heritage list are well worth visiting, like the Basilica of Bom Jesus and Se Cathedral.

Goa is also famous for its beautiful beaches . You can enjoy beach time with fun water activities.

If you would like a shorter itinerary, you could check out our 11-Day India Highlights and Goa Honeymoon Trip .

Or you can also contact us for an itinerary based on your interests, group size, budget, and other needs. All our tours can be adjusted. With Asia Highlights , you enjoy 100% refund of any payments made to China Highlights prior to 3 weeks before departure ( detail⇒ ).

Best 2-Week India Itinerary for History: Golden Triangle + Rajasthan

The golden triangle captures the essence of what many imagine India to be like — visit the most famous cities and most representative palaces and forts.

Rajasthan is the best choice to experience the splendid history and colorful culture of India. Its four color cities will enable you to feel its charming history and culture in a romantic and colorful atmosphere.

Here is the itinerary for inspiration:

• Days 5–6: Jaipur

Day 7: Bikaner

• Days 8–9: Jaisalmer
• Days 10–11: Jodhpur
• Days 12–13: Udaipur
• Day 14: Fly back to Delhi for departure

Day 1–2: Delhi

The capital Delhi is the start of your India trip. It is recommended to spend at least one day to explore Delhi and see its highlights, including the Jama Masjid, Humayun's Tomb, and Qutub Minar. These will help you learn about India's Muslim heritage.

Go to Chandni Chowk, Delhi's oldest market, where you can discover local people's lifestyle in Old Delhi. A rickshaw ride could make the visit more interesting.

Drive about 5 hours to Agra. It is also accessible by train and bus, but a private point-to-point transfer is more efficient and flexible.

There, learn about the beautiful love story behind the Taj Mahal as you visit it. Don't miss visiting Mehtab Bagh ('Moonlight Garden'). It is the best place to get a stunning sunset view of the Taj Mahal.

At Agra Fort, see what luxurious royal life used to be like, and see the amazing intricate patterns carved in Itmad-ud-Daula (the baby Taj Mahal).

Day 5–6: Jaipur (the Pink City)

Head to Jaipur with another 5-hour drive. Jaipur is full of romantic ambience. Much of its architecture is painted pink.

You can walk through several palaces and forts , learn about their glorious history, and discover why they are pink.

Having a romantic dinner at a fort, like a prince and princess, could be an unforgettable experience. If you want a more local experience, you could take a cooking class at a local's home, and then show off your Indian cuisine skills to your friends when you get back.

Bikaner's recommended stay is 1–2 days. It was one of the three great Desert Kingdoms of Rajasthan.

There you can check into a heritage hotel , visit a fort, go to the Camel Institute, and visit a special temple, where 25,000 rats live and are revered.

Days 8–9: Jaisalmer (the Golden City)

Head to Jaisalmer with a third 5-hour drive. Jaisalmer, a famous desert city, was once a center of trade between Afghanistan and Central/South Asia.

There you can explore a fascinating desert and visit a splendid group of cenotaphs, where you can enjoy a wonderful sunset.

Days 10–11: Jodhpur (the Blue City)

Again, we'd drive about 5 hours to Jodhpur, the blue city, a quiet and tidy city.

Walk through the quiet and narrow alleys among the old town's blue houses, take some beautiful pictures, and explore the fascinating bazaars with their little shops.

Visit an ancient fort perched on a huge cliff and explore the several brilliantly-crafted and decorated palaces in it. Occasionally there is music coming from the castle, which is healing and peaceful.

Days 12–13: Udaipur (the White City)

Udaipur is also a five-hour drive from Jodhpur. The buildings there are mostly white.

Visit Udaipur's City Palace , an exquisite white palace, where you can see the amazing panoramic view of the city on its top.

The most impressive sight is the enchanting blue water of Lake Pichola. A boat tour will take you to the best place to enjoy the romantic lake views.

If you want to take the romance even further, have a candlelit dinner by the lake.

If you are interested in the India-Pakistan border area and want to learn about the history of British India , then you should consider this northern route.

We suggest visiting the golden triangle and two important northern cities: Shimla and Amritsar.

The Golden Triangle: 6–7 Days

Located in the central northern India, Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur are the best gateways to learning about India's architecture, history, and culture.

You can visit the most well-known landmarks, like the Taj Mahal and many splendid palaces and forts.

You can also experience a heritage hotel that showcases Old World colonial charm and mansions once owned by India's royal family.

Some more locally-connected activities include having a cooking class with a local chef and taking an auto-rickshaw to a local market. They can be added.

Shimla and Amritsar: 4–6 Days

Amritsar (2–3 days): In the North-West Frontier of India, Amritsar is a good place for visiting the India-Pakistan border for the interesting " lowering of the flags " ceremony.

It is also the holy city of Sikhism, one of the major three religions in India. There you can visit a Sikh temple, listen the chanting of the Sikhs, and visit the place where the Amritsar massacre took place.

Shimla (2–3 days): You can find Victorian-style buildings in Shimla's Mall Road. Those buildings tell the story of Shimla when it was the summer capital of British India .

The Best 2-Week South India Itinerary

If you've been to India's golden triangle and want to experience something different from forts, palaces, and temples, then you should consider South India, which features natural beauty , relaxing countryside life, and beautiful beaches .

For a 2-week trip in South India, you could go to Mumbai and Kerala — India's biggest-and-most-bustling city and the famous tourist state of South India.

There you can experience the main features of the south — beaches, tropical views, tea and spice plantations, wild animals, and South India culture.

Mumbai: 2–3 Days

First, spend two or three days in Mumbai, the biggest city in India. India's past and future can be seen there simultaneously.

There, the skyscrapers of India's rich coexist with Asia's largest slums . The world's leading IT companies sit side-by-side with the huge Municipal Laundry at Dhobi Ghat. After visiting these places, you may be able to understand the unique temperament of Mumbai or even India.

You can also explore Bollywood to discover India's film industry, watch a Bollywood dance show, and admire the colonial-style architecture sets.

Kerala: 9–11 Days

Kerala is the "southern tourism state". You are suggested to spend 9 to 11 days exploring it. Rich natural resources and a harmonious and inclusive religious culture are Kerala's features…

Cochin (1–2 days): You can visit Portuguese, English, European, and Spanish-style old buildings , learn about the relationship between China and India through seeing Chinese fishing nets , and enjoy the traditional dance of Kerala.

Munnar (2–3 days): A famous hill station and the best place for hiking around a tea plantation , in Munnar you can visit a tea museum, go for a picnic by a peaceful lake, and find where the film Life of Pi was shot.

Thekkady (1–2 days): In Thekkady, you can follow the trails of wild animals in Periyar National Park, have a cruise on a lake, and enjoy walking in a spice plantation .

Alleppey (1–2 days): You can experience a traditional houseboat in Alleppey, and enjoy a cruise to explore Kerala's backwaters , the biggest draw of Kerala.

Kovalam (2–3 days): Enjoy some leisurely beach time. Sunbathing, swimming, Ayurvedic rejuvenation, massage, etc. are popular in Kovalam.

Trivandrum : Departure

We are by no means limited to our itinerary recommendations. You can contact us if you have any ideas. We will create an itinerary based on your interests and needs.

India offers luxury trips with palace hotels for hundreds, even thousands of dollars a night. It can also offer many budget options (at 3–4 dollars for a bed but you cannot expect a nice environment).

If you are looking for a comfortable and satisfying holiday in India, then a medium or higher budget should be appropriate.

Below, we provide some for-reference prices based on a private tour. You can also contact us and we will plan your itinerary and recommend hotels according to your interests and needs.

• For a medium budget, touring India typically costs around 150–200 USD per day per person (including air fares within India, 4-star hotels, attractions, guide, and transfers). Thus, it may cost about 2,000–3,000 USD for 2 weeks.
• For a higher budget of US$ 200–250 per day per person, more comfort can be enjoyed (includes air fares within India, 5-star hotels, attractions, guide, and transfers). The cost for 2 weeks would be around 3,000–3,500 USD.

See more on our How Much Does a Trip to India Cost?

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TripSavvy / Faye Strassle

Ah, it's so hard to choose! What are the best tourist places in India? A lot of the time, it comes down to personal preference. However, some places to visit in India remain perennially more popular than others. These are among the best destinations in India.

Want to know more about India's top destinations? Take a look at this India travel planner and this guide to the top India tourist places by region. If you'd like to explore beyond India's popular tourist attractions, here are 12 of the best places to visit in India off the beaten track to inspire you!

Also read: Safety issues at top tourist places in India to be prepared for problems you may encounter.

Best for Monuments: Delhi

Most first time travelers to India usually land in Delhi, India's capital city. It can be quite a culture shock . The city is primed to take advantage of unsuspecting tourists. However, bear with it! Delhi's top attractions feature spellbinding mosques, forts, and monuments left over from the Mughal rulers that once occupied the city. Many of these are set in beautiful landscaped gardens that are perfect for relaxing. And the crumbling old city of Old Delhi is a fascinating, albeit chaotic, place to explore. Plan your trip there with this Delhi city guide.

Best Iconic: Taj Mahal

Nora Carol Photography/Getty Images

A part of India's popular Golden Triangle tourist circuit , Agra is best known for the Taj Mahal. Enough said really. It's India's most iconic monument and one of the top historical attractions.   For that reason, it's impossible to leave it off the list. (While you're there, why not get off the beaten track and visit some attractions around Agra as well?). Make sure you read this comprehensive guide to Agra and the Taj Mahal before you go.

Best Temple: Golden Temple

Amritsar is home to one of India's most notable landmarks -- the Golden Temple. It was founded in 1577 by Guru Ram Das, the fourth Sikh guru. It’s the spiritual capital of the Sikhs and gained its name, meaning "Holy Pool of Nectar", from the body of water around the Golden Temple. The exquisite Golden Temple attracts pilgrims from all over the world and the number of visitors it gets rivals that of the Taj Mahal! It looks particularly arresting at night when it’s beautifully lit up, with its imposing gold dome illuminated. This guide to Amritsar and Golden Temple has more details.

Best Regal Splendor: Udaipur

Ah, Udaipur! Famed city of lakes and palaces, and the most romantic city in India. A must-visit for the ability to immerse yourself in regal splendor. The royal family has converted much of the sprawling City Palace into a museum , housing priceless memorabilia. It provides an extraordinary opportunity to take a look into their lives. Another attractive thing about Udaipur is that it offers great value! There are so many inexpensive yet atmospheric hotels overlooking the lake to stay in. Or, stay in the City Palace Complex itself, at the Shiv Niwas Palace Hotel or Fateh Prakash Palace Hotel.

Best Ruins: Hampi

Hampi is, not surprisingly, one of the most popular places to visit in Karnataka. There you'll find the captivating ruins of Vijayanagar, the last capital of one of the greatest Hindu kingdoms in not only the state but in India’s history. The ruins are intriguingly intermingled with large boulders that rear up all over the landscape. An incredible energy can be found at Hampi. Its laid-back vibe attracts plenty of travelers who like to stay a while and chill out. The New York Times included Hampi on its list of 52 Places to Go in 2019 , so get there fast before everyone else! Have a read of this handy Hampi travel guide for more information.

Best for History and Architecture: Ajanta and Ellora Caves

TripSavvy / Anna Haines

Among the top caves in India , the ancient and awe-inspiring Ajanta and Ellora caves have been hand-carved into hillside rock quite in the middle of nowhere near Aurangabad in northern Maharashtra. These caves are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are 34 of them at Ellora, dating from between the 6th and 11th centuries AD. They're a mixture of Buddhist, Hindu and Jain caves. The caves at Ajanta are all Buddhist caves. There are 29 of them, dating from the 2nd century BC to 6th century AD. Words can't describe how magnificent they all are.

Best for Spirituality: Varanasi

Varanasi, one of the top spiritual places in India, is a city quite unlike any other. This mystical holy city openly reveals its rituals along the many riverside ghats, which are used for everything from bathing to burning the bodies of the dead. Indeed, Varanasi is a confronting and rather dirty city (although it has been cleaned up a lot in recent years). However, it provides invaluable insight into ancient traditions in India. Two highlights are wandering along the riverside ghats and attending the evening Ganga Aarti ceremony. Here's a Varanasi travel guide to help you plan your trip.

Best for Culture: Kolkata

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Kolkata , the capital of West Bengal, is a fascinating but underrated city that unfortunately all too often gets overlooked by tourists. Those who are most keen on history, experiential travel, and day-to-day life will appreciate what it has to offer though. Look past its crumbling buildings and you'll discover delicious distinctive Bengali cuisine , interesting places to shop , diverse neighborhoods , and engaging heritage . The city's biggest festival, Durga Puja , is worth experiencing as well! Take a look at these evocative photos of Kolkata for inspiration.

Best for South Indian Culture: Madurai

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Madurai, in Tamil Nadu , has the most impressive temple in South India -- the Meenakshi Temple . If you only see one of South India's temples , the Meenakshi Temple should be it. The city of Madurai is more than 4,000 years old, and has remained a major center for Tamil culture and learning. The 12 day Chithirai Festival , featuring a re-enacted celestial wedding of God and Goddess, is held in Madurai during April each year. Here's what else to see and do in Madurai.

Best for Tribal Culture: Northeast India

Tourists are often surprised to discover that there are many different tribes in India . In fact, along with Africa, India has the largest tribal population in the world. Many of them inhabit India's remote Northeast region and they generally welcome visitors. One of the best ways to experience their culture is to attend one of their tribal festivals , such as the renowned Hornbill Festival. Otherwise, reputable local companies such as Greener Pastures and Holiday Scout conduct responsible tribal tours.

Best for Relaxation: Kerala Backwaters

One of the must-do things in Kerala , a trip in a houseboat along the palm-fringed Kerala backwaters is so tranquil and relaxing. The lush green landscape, and houses and villages that line the backwaters make a journey along these waterways seem like a journey through another world. Freshly cooked Indian food and chilled beer on board the boat make the experience even more enjoyable. Don't miss it! Here's how to best visit the Kerala Backwaters.

Best for Beaches: Goa

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India's top beach destination, Goa lures visitors with the promise of parties and lazy days by the sea. However, there's more to Goa than just hedonism. The state also offers an eclectic blend of history, nature, culture , and adventure activities . It's divided into north and south Goa, with the north being more developed and action-packed. If you're looking for quiet beaches, head south! However, each beach has its own character. This  Goa beach guide will help you choose the beach that's right for you. Check out these gorgeous Goa beach huts as well.

Best for Wildlife: Kanha National Park

India has so many national parks, it's hard to choose the best wildlife destination. However, the jungles of Madhya Pradesh do stand out, Kanha National Park in particular. It's one of the largest national parks in India and it provided the setting for Rudyard Kipling’s classic novel, The Jungle Book . The park is highly regarded for its research and conservation programs. Numerous activities, such as nature walks, are possible in the buffer zone as well as safaris into the core area twice a day. Tiger sightings are regular there too! Want to visit more than one national park in Madhya Pradesh ? Bandhavgarh is also popular.

Best for Adventure: Spiti

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The high-altitude alpine desert landscape of remote Spiti, in Himachal Pradesh, provides ample options for adventure enthusiasts. These include mountain biking, hiking and trekking, tracking wildlife, and yak safaris. Spiti's remarkable landscape is scattered with small villages and monasteries, and enclosed by soaring peaks crowned with snow. Take a look at these spectacular photos of the Spiti Valley . Spiti can be reached by road from Manali or Shimla. This ultimate Spiti travel planner will help you organize your trip.

Best Offbeat: Kutch Region of Gujarat

Referred to as India's "Wild West", the Kutch region of Gujarat is an immense stretch of largely barren and harsh desert landscape bordering Pakistan. Much of Kutch consists of seasonal wetlands known as the Great Rann of Kutch (famous for its salt desert) and smaller Little Rann of Kutch (famous for its Wild Ass Sanctuary ). The region is also celebrated for the vibrant handicrafts made by its talented artisan villagers, and the seaside port town of Mandvi where there's a remarkable 400 year-old ship building yard.

Best Up and Coming: Odisha

Odisha has tremendous potential as a tourist destination and will undoubtedly attract more visitors when adequate infrastructure is developed. Until then, you can enjoy the serenity in this lesser-known state on the east coast of India. Attractions include the unusual Konark Sun Temple , massive annual Ratha Jatra festival in Puri , the Diamond Triangle of sacred Buddhist sites , the wetlands at Mangalajodi where migratory birds can be seen close-up, handicraft villages , classical music and dance festivals , and a multitude of ancient temples . Still not sure if you want to go there? Here are even more places to visit in Odisha and the capital city Bhubaneswar .

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The 22 best things to do in India

Dec 17, 2023 • 22 min read

From photographing the iconic Taj Mahal to soaking up riverside life in Varanasi, here are the best things to do in India © Hitesh Makwana / EyeEm / Getty Images

There are many Indias within India . This land of ancient temples and opulent palaces, forgotten cities and lost traditions, spice markets and spicy food is almost a world unto itself. For many travelers, a visit here is the trip of a lifetime.

Such expectations can make it hard to decide what experiences you should prioritize, and that's exactly why we’ve created this list of the best things to do in India. When planning an extensive India itinerary, keep the following stops in mind.

1. Experience Varanasi at dawn

The best way to experience the timelessness of Varanasi , one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, is to start just before dawn breaks. At Assi Ghat , the devotional Ganga Aarti ceremony performed on the banks of the Ganges will mesmerize as participants intone rhythmic chants and hymns on the steps that descend to the holy river.

Next, take to the water in a small boat, watching the sun rise as life slowly starts to stir along the river. Suddenly, there will be a burst of activity as saffron-clad sadhus (holy men), vendors, devotees and tourists begin performing rituals, including yoga and ritual singing. A boat ride along the Ganges will pass the main Dashashwamedh Ghat toward Manikarnika Ghat , where funeral pyres burn as the dead are cremated. In Varanasi, death is a way of life.

Planning tip: We recommend a visit to an  akhara (wrestling center) to see wrestlers practice their traditional sport in a mud pit in the early morning light. End your tour with some soulful food: a typical Varanasi breakfast of kachoris (deep-fried pastries) stuffed with lentils and served with spicy potato gravy. Finish the meal on a sweet note with melt-in-mouth jalebis (fried whorls of dough).

2. Set your eyes – and lens – on the iconic Taj Mahal

The iconic, romantic symbol pictured on every India travel brochure, the Taj Mahal in Agra really is a reliable highlight of any trip here. Despite incessant tourist crowds, you can't help but gaze in wonder at this marbled mausoleum built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan for his wife, Mumtaz.

While it’s hard to get a bad shot of the Taj, the most vivid photos are usually taken at sunrise and sunset from Mehtab Bagh , the Mughal garden across the Yamuna River. Arrive just before dawn and watch the colors change on this sublime monument dedicated to eternal love. Over the course of a day, the sun paints the marble in different hues, transforming the dome from pale pink at sunrise to orange at sunset.

Pay a visit to the eye-catching tomb of Itimad-Ud-Daulah – a precursor to the Taj Mahal, constructed in the 1620s and dubbed the “Baby Taj” – created for Mumtaz’s grandfather, Mirza Ghiyas Beg by his daughter, Nur Jahan.

Planning tip: Special tickets are sold for visits on an evening with a full moon. They can be bought in person 24 hours in advance at the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) offices on Mall Road, and you will need to bring your passport as ID.

3. Demystify the Kama Sutra story behind Khajuraho

As you stand in front of erotic sculptures of figures locked in improbable positions at Khajuraho , you can almost feel the passion. Perhaps no other heritage destination evokes as much wonder and curiosity as these famous temples, built nearly 1000 years ago. And yet guides will painstakingly tell you that barely a tenth of the master carvings in the 22 temples that have been excavated here are dedicated to the Kama Sutra .

As you immerse yourself in these three-dimensional narratives, you can decide for yourself why the Chandela, an ancient Rajput clan, chose to depict eroticism on the walls of their temples, which are dedicated to both Hindu and Jain deities. Be sure not to miss one of India’s oldest surviving Tantric temples, dedicated to the Chausath Yogini – the 64 Tantric goddesses. The cells may be bereft of the idols, yet the architecture, in ruins, is fascinating.

Planning tip: You will need a day to explore all of Khajuraho’s temples; start as early as possible to capture the dawn light in your photos, or come in the afternoon when the warm sunlight makes for evocative shadows.

4. Explore the world’s largest mangrove forests in the Sundarbans

The wild and remote biodiversity hotspot of Sundarbans National Park is where three mighty rivers – the Ganges, Brahmaputra, and Meghna – join the Bay of Bengal. A maze of mangrove forests, swamps and mudflats, riverine islands and numerous canals that you can explore by boat, the Sundarbans is perhaps most famous for its population of Bengal tigers that roam its brackish channels.

With its serpentine network of roots, the dark and dense undergrowth provides hiding spots for crocodiles, snakes and other predators. Look out for the different varieties of kingfishers, raptors and water birds from observation towers that give you a bird’s-eye view of the swamps. Village walks are possible on a handful of islands and resilient locals will tell you harrowing tales of living amid devastating cyclones and treacherous wildlife in this delicate and unforgettable ecosystem.

5. Camp under the stars in the Thar Desert of Rajasthan

With an entire galaxy to keep you entertained for the night, sleeping among the wavy, undulating sand dunes of Rajasthan ’s Thar Desert is something that stays with you forever. Near Jaisalmer , a number of desert camps are pitched across the windswept Sam Sand Dunes , which rise to more than 50m (164ft) in height and create magical mirages before your eyes. Go on a camel safari along with a caravan to experience the sunset as you’ve never seen it.

Planning tip: In town, take an unmissable wander through the old temples and colorful markets of majestic Jaisalmer Fort , which 5000 people still call home. If you’re fascinated by the supernatural, head southwest of the walled city to the abandoned ghost town of Kuldhara  – it's said to be haunted, especially after dark.

6. Feel the presence of the divine at the Golden Temple, Amritsar

The best time to experience Amritsar ’s sublime Golden Temple is at 4am (5am in winter) when the revered scripture of Sikhism, the Guru Granth Sahib, is installed inside the temple for the day amid the hum of ritual chanting. With the moon still shining, the entire complex is lit up as the shimmering gold of the dome reflects in the surrounding pond, Amrit Sarovar (the Reservoir of Nectar).

Hospitality and charity are key values for Sikhs, and this famous gurdwara (place of worship) is open to anyone of any faith. The incredible community kitchen known as the Guru-Ka-Langar offers simple, vegetarian meals throughout the day for up to 100,000 devotees (meals are free but a donation is appropriate).

7. Cruise the Kerala backwaters

A maze of small canals, brackish lagoons, silent rivers and still rivulets interconnected with the Arabian Sea, the backwaters of Kerala offer a completely different view of India for travelers and a lifeline of farming and fishing for locals. You can choose your own adventure as you make your way through this tangle of channels and lakes.

During an overnight cruise on a kettuvallam (houseboat), you can pass the hours by fishing, visiting small villages, bird watching or sitting back and watching the world go slowly by.

Planning tip: Many cruise itineraries start in Alappuzha , to the south of Kochi , but the quality of houseboats varies significantly – your best bet is to head to the dock and view a selection of houseboats one or two days in advance. If you’re booking online using an aggregator such as Booking.com , be sure to read plenty of reviews before you book.

8. Visit the ancient monasteries of Ladakh

Touching the high Himalayas, the mountain valleys of Ladakh leave people breathless – both figuratively and literally. You’ll need time to acclimatize in this state that was once a Buddhist kingdom, with stark and vivid landscapes that sit between 3000–6000m (9842–19,685ft) above sea level.

Dotted with snow-clad mountains, icy glaciers, wild meadows, and valleys in the lowlands, plus rivers and high-altitude lakes that change color depending on the light, the region is a natural playground for hikers , bikers and adventure enthusiasts. In winter, travelers come here for expeditions to seek snow leopards and treks along the frozen Zanskar River.

Chortens (Tibetan Buddhist stupas) and gompas (Tibetan Buddhist monasteries) are scattered across this cold desert and visiting these sacred sites will help you learn more about the traditions of Tibetan Buddhism. The region’s oldest monastery is at Alchi, though Thiksey , Stok , and Hemis gompas, closer to the capital Leh , are the most popular stops for visitors.

Planning tip: Don’t miss views of Ladakh’s moonscapes from Lamayuru Monastery , a convenient stop when traveling west from Leh to Srinagar in Kashmir . Remember to cover your shoulders and legs while visiting the monastery, and observe the ban on photography within the premises.

9. Spend a day at Raghurajpur Arts and Crafts Village in Odisha

Located near the temple town of Puri in Odisha , the colorful Raghurajpur Arts and Crafts Village is a living gallery maintained by local chitrakaars (folk artists). The village showcases the traditional art of pata chitra painting, paying tribute to the triad deities from the Puri Jagannath Temple . Each canvas is specially prepared with layers of cotton cloth, and tribal motifs, folk stories, myths and legends are the subjects of the artworks. Expect the artists here to invite you into their homes to see the murals that cover the walls.

As well as pata chitra , you can see tussar silk paintings, toys and palm-leaf engravings. You can also see live demonstrations or try your hand at creating your own piece of art. Try to see a traditional performance of the Gotipua dance; young men from the community can be seen practicing at local gurukul (dance academies).

10. Explore the ruins of Hampi

If the ruins of Hampi could speak, they would tell a glorious tale of a powerful and prosperous kingdom whose rulers built magnificent temples, palaces and monuments, traded precious stones in vast bazaars, and contributed immensely to the art, architecture, culture and literature of India. Founded 600 years ago by two brothers, working under the guidance of their spiritual guru, Sri Vidyaranya, Hampi was once the capital of the Vijayanagar Empire, which ruled the Deccan Plateau of South India for centuries.

The site sprawls for miles, centered on several important groups of monuments, including the Royal Enclosure and the Temple Trail. The still-active Virupaksha Temple is the nucleus of spiritual activity at Hampi, but the most striking structure is the Vittala Temple , an architectural marvel featuring an elaborately carved stone chariot that is illustrated on India’s 50-rupee note.

Planning tip: Allow at least three to four days to fully explore this special place. The center of Hampi can be explored on foot; to explore surrounding areas, rent a bicycle or motorbike, or hire an auto-rickshaw on either side of the Tungabhadra River.

11. Explore Goa beyond the beaches

Goa is not just a destination; it’s a state of mind. The very name evokes images of sun, sand and sea, and while Goa’s beaches are the main attraction here (tip: opt for the less-crowded shores of South Goa ), the small state’s riverine islands, mangrove swamps, dense forests, and spice and cashew plantations are memorable and sensuous experiences in themselves.

Cruise the Zuari River and narrow canals bordered by mangroves at dawn to spot six varieties of kingfishers, among other water birds. In the inland forests, hidden temples reward hikers. For more nature, visit Mollem National Park and Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary with its mighty Dudhsagar Falls – especially post-monsoon, when they’re at full force.

12. Be dazzled by the Rann of Kachchh salt desert

Be sure to pack your sunglasses: the sparkling sodium chloride crystals of the White Rann, one of the world’s largest salt deserts, will literally dazzle you. The Rann of Kachchh (Kutch) in Gujarat is divided into the Greater and Lesser Rann (the White Rann is part of the former), a unique ecosystem in which shallow salt marshes are submerged during the monsoons. As they evaporate, the wetlands transform into an arid ocean of salt, a seasonal phenomenon seen only in winter, from October to March.

We recommend staying in Hodka or Dhordo, where resorts are composed of Kutchi (Kutch-style) bhungas – circular-walled thatched mud huts that offer a welcome respite from the harsh desert heat. While you’re in the area, head to the nearby ruins of the ancient Indus Valley civilization at Dholavira to the east, and the 18th-century Aaina Mahal Palace in Bhuj, to the southwest.

Planning tip: The landscape is especially mesmerizing at sunrise and sunset; evening visits during full-moon evenings are another treat. Gujarat Tourism hosts the annual Rann Ustav , a fascinating cultural festival that runs between November and February. Expect a flood of food and local handicraft stalls as well as Sufi and indigenous Kutchi folk music performances.

13. See larger-than-life sculptures at the Great Living Chola Temples

Located in Tamil Nadu , the 1200-year-old Great Living Chola Temples leave visitors both spellbound and humbled. These mighty monuments include Brihadeeshwara Temple in the southern city of Thanjavur , built by King Raja Raja Chola I in the 10th century. The soaring 63.4m-high (208ft) vimana (tower above the shrine) is one of the largest of any Hindu temple anywhere, hence its nickname, the Big Temple.

Raja Raja Chola I’s son, Rajendra Chola, ambitiously set out to create a bigger version of his father’s temple at Gangaikonda Cholapuram , but for mysterious reasons never completed the complex. A century later, in a small town called Darasuram, the third temple was erected by Raja Raja Chola II. If the first two Brihadeshwara temples are larger-than-life marvels, the Airavateswarar Temple is an ode to mastery on a smaller scale and a tribute to the craftsmanship of the era. Each of the temples is dedicated primarily to Shiva, although carvings depict a pantheon of other Hindu deities.

Planning tip: You’ll need a day to explore all three temples, which are still in active use. It's best to visit either early in the morning or in the evenings.

14. Discover hidden treasures in the villages of Chettinadu

A cultural and colorful mosaic of arts, crafts, architecture, food and traditions, Chettinadu is a collection of 75 villages in Tamil Nadu that were once home to an affluent mercantile community called the Nagarathar Chettiars. The merchants grew rich off trading in jewelry and spices; when most of them left for better prospects elsewhere, they left behind their homes – a cultural reminder of their cosmopolitan community and the wealth they accumulated.

Aptly titled nattukottai (country forts), each home is a larger-than-life fortified palace; some cover more than 3700 sq meters (39,826 sq ft). Colorful facades feature arches, pillars, sculptures and friezes but it’s the interiors that truly amaze, with Belgian mirrors and chandeliers, Italian marble, Japanese artworks, Spanish tiles, Burmese teak and other luxurious components sourced from around the world.

Villages such as Karaikudi, Kanadukathan, Devakottai, Kothamangalam, Pallathur and Kottaiyur feature grand houses that are up to 200 years old. While most of them have been abandoned, a few have been converted into luxury hotels. A fusion of Art Deco, Dravidian and colonial architectural styles, these houses are fascinating to explore and some can be entered for a small fee.

15. Look for India’s Big Five

On thrilling 4WD safaris through the dense forests of wildlife sanctuaries, you can look out for India’s Big Five : tigers, elephants, leopards, sloth bears and gaur (Indian bison). There are more than 100 national parks and tiger reserves spread across the country, including venerable Jim Corbett National Park ; Kanha , Bandhavgarh and Panna in Madhya Pradesh ; Pench and Tadoba-Andhari in Maharashtra; Ranthambore in Rajasthan; Nagarhole and Bandipur in Karnataka ; Mudumalai in Tamil Nadu, and many, many more.

Farther afield, Kaziranga National Park in Assam provides sightings of the critically endangered one-horned rhinoceros, while elusive snow leopards populate Hemis National Park in Ladakh and Asiatic lions congregate in Gujarat’s Gir National Park . The Kabini Reservoir in Karnataka draws massive herds of elephants, especially in summer; bird watchers are also in for a delight as more than 1300 species are found here.

Planning tip: Throughout the country, early-morning safaris tend to be the most rewarding, although evening safaris bring magic light. Late summer is the best time for spotting wildlife, but many national parks are closed during the early-summer monsoon. Many parks offer elephant safaris, but these are not recommended as carrying passengers can be harmful to elephants.

16. Get a taste of “orthodox tea” country in Darjeeling

The quaint, verdant hill station of Darjeeling , West Bengal is an idyllic town, towered over by snow-capped Himalayan peaks, nestled amongst rolling hills of rhododendron and pines, and overflowing with tea plantations. Although Indian-style chai is readily available, this is “orthodox” tea country – the term refers to loose-leaf tea that’s brewed in a teapot with hot water, unlike chai, which is made from CTC (crush, tear, curl) tea. With plenty of hole-in-the-wall cafes and eateries within the town, and hiking trails and Buddhist monasteries nearby, Darjeeling offers a welcome change of pace for every palate.

Similarly, Kangra – another important Indian tea-growing region in Himachal Pradesh – offers relaxed views of Himalayan foothills that can be easily reached via the nearby hill station of Dharamshala , and the adjacent settlement of McLeod Ganj. Currently, Dharamshala is home to the Dalai Lama and the exiled Tibetan government, and the town is rich with Tibetan influence.

Planning tip: The famous narrow-gauge Toy Train to Darjeeling runs uphill from New Jalpaiguri station, following the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Many tourists opt for two-hour 'joy rides' on the steam locos from Darjeeling to Ghum (India's highest railway station) and back. October to January are peak months for the Toy Train, so book your seats in advance via the IRCTC website .

17. Travel on a sleeper train

Strikingly scenic and luxuriously slow, rail travel in India offers a pleasant change of pace from the vibrant cacophony of urban tourist hubs. Heading from Delhi to Rishikesh via the overnight Shatabdi train, carefully poke your head out to watch the length of the train curve through the rural countryside. As the views roll by, expect to be generously supplied with railway snacks – from samosas and poha (flattened rice) to full meals, if you so choose – and topped up with extra hot, extra sweet chai , as chaiwalas saunter by with a kettle and paper cups.

If you’re looking to explore southwestern parts of the country, there are several dramatic train routes connecting the busy city of Mumbai with the historic port city of Kochi , whooshing past swathes of the lush green Konkan region and offering glimpses of the Arabian Sea.

Planning tip: Seats on popular routes fill up fast, so it’s worth booking your ticket online in advance via the IRCTC website. For maximum privacy and comfort for long overnight journeys, book an AC-class ticket (you can choose from four-bed, three-bed or two-bed cabins). If you’re keen to meet local people, opt for a Sleeper class ticket (but don’t expect to get too much sleep). Although you’ll find sit-down toilets on board, it’s advisable to carry your own toilet paper.

18. Practice Yoga in Rishikesh

Tucked away in the Himalayan foothills upon the banks of the Ganges, Rishikesh is a renowned spiritual hub, famed for its ashrams and yoga and meditation centers. Beyond the oft-discussed “Beatles Ashram” – a now-abandoned ashram visited by the Beatles in the '60s when they were learning Transcendental Meditation – Rishikesh is also the setting for the annual International Yoga Festival in March.

There are a plethora of yoga courses available, taught by both Indian and foreign teachers. For beginners, we recommend signing up for a course at the Sivananda Ashram , where you can learn surya namaskars (sun salutations) and basic asanas on the river bank. There are also several women-only yoga courses available, at a variety of price points.

Planning tip: If you’re planning to visit during the International Yoga Festival, book yourself a spot online . Most yoga centers are located between Ram Jhula and Laxman Jhula, so book your accommodation at least a few months in advance. Note that Rishikesh is a vegetarian city; for non-veg dishes, head to the nearby town of Haridwar .

19. Immerse yourself in the diversity of northeastern India

Considering how diverse the northeastern states of India are, it seems almost unfair how frequently they are grouped together. India’s northeast has an offbeat experience for every traveler, from the annual Hornbill Festival in Kohima, Nagaland , which showcases the ethnic diversity of the state’s 17 main tribes every December, to the unparalleled views of 8586m (28,169ft) Khangchendzonga (the world’s third-highest mountain) from Gangtok in Sikkim .

We recommend starting your tour of the region in Guwahati in Assam, heading on a safari to Kaziranga National Park , where you can see one-horned rhinos, and then traveling onward to Majuli, the world’s largest river island. In Meghalaya , start in Shillong and loop towards the scenic town of Cherrapunji, lush with waterfalls and living root bridges – wondrous pedestrian bridges engineered by intertwining rubber tree roots over time. Further northeast, Arunachal Pradesh’s atmospheric Ziro Valley offers beginner-friendly treks through bamboo and pine forests.

Planning tip: The busiest time to visit the northeast is March to June when there’s still a slight coolness in the air. Accommodation during these months is more expensive; if you’re looking for a more affordable trip, the weather during the summer months – with the exception of lowland areas affected by the monsoon – is pleasant too.

20. Visit a bustling local market

Wherever you go in India, from Kashmir in the north to the tip of Kanyakumari in the south, no trip would be complete without a visit to a market. This is true whether you take a shikara (wooden boat) to watch the chaos of the early morning floating vegetable market on Dal Lake in Srinagar  or go bargaining for jhumkas (earrings) in Chandni Chowk in Delhi.

Markets in India are worth visiting partly because they’re authentically Indian – they’re frequented by local people year round, regardless of whether tourists visit them or not. We recommend starting off with a few of Delhi’s favorite bazaars – browse for clothes and attars (scents) in Chandni Chowk, Tibetan-style jewelry in Majnu-ka-Tila, and spices in Khari Baoli, Asia's largest spice market (your clothes will smell of ground cinnamon and cardamom for days, even after being laundered). Other rewarding markets include Mysore’s Devaraja Market , Jaipur ’s Johri Bazar, and Kolkata ’s Mullick Ghat – Asia’s largest flower market.

Planning tip: Markets are high pedestrian traffic areas and can be overwhelming; new-to-India travelers may want to book a guided tour. Be sure to keep your valuables in a concealed money belt (or similar), as pickpockets are common in these markets.

21. Tour Rajasthan’s historic forts and palaces

Thanks to a rich history of intertwined kingdoms and local battles, Rajasthan is home to some of India’s most spectacular forts and palaces. Over the centuries, neighboring kingdoms tried to one-up each other in fabulous displays of ostentation, and fought countless battles amongst themselves and against outsiders. It was only in the mid-1500s that the region – then called “Rajputana” – was brought together under the Mughal emperor Akbar.

Start with the Amber Fort in Amer (outside Jaipur) with its honeyed pink-and-yellow walls standing stark against cloudless blue skies. Inside, the palace walls are intricately painted, and the Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace) brings the stars indoors as candlelight twinkles on mirror mosaics. Other forts and palaces to check off your list include Mehrangarh in the blue city of Jodhpur , Ranthambhore Fort inside Ranthambhore National Park , Chittor in Chittorgarh, and Kumbhalgarh in the Aravali Hills.

Planning tip: Plan to visit Rajasthan when the weather is at its coolest, between October and March. Keep some small change handy for camera fees if you want to use a camera inside most fort complexes (you can often shoot on your phone for free). Although many forts (including Amber Fort) offer elephant rides for sightseeing, these have been banned by the government since 2005 as they are harmful to elephants.

22. Experience the energy of India’s festivals

With an almost impossibly diverse population, religion is the core of India’s social fabric, and religious festivals pulse through the country’s calendar. Celebrated enthusiastically by the majority Hindu population, Holi – the festival of colors in the spring – and Diwali – the festival of lights – are major events across the country. In the east, Durga Puja is a grand celebration of the Hindu goddess Durga and brings Kolkata to a standstill.

Similarly, Ganesh Chaturthi – celebrating the elephant-headed Hindu god Ganesh – is of paramount significance in Mumbai , where crowds accompany giant statues of the deity as they are paraded through the city and submerged in the sea.

The Muslim celebrations for Eid (at the end of the fasting month of Ramadan) are memorable in Delhi, Lucknow, Mumbai, and Hyderabad – people open up intricate late-night markets and street-food stalls showcasing Muslim delicacies native to each area.

There are dozens of other region- and religion-specific festivals, so be sure to do your homework on festival dates. The harvest festival of Onam brings bursts of color across the southern state of Kerala in August or September. If you’re headed to Ladakh or other places with large Tibetan Buddhist populations such as Dharamshala or Arunachal Pradesh, the Tibetan New Year festival of Losar in February or March brings three full days of festivities, including masked Buddhist dances at monasteries.

Planning tip: Many Indian festivals follow the lunar calendar, so dates change every year. Islamic festivals move forward by 11 days each year, relative to the Gregorian calendar. Always check the dates of festivals locally to avoid missing significant events.

This article was first published April 2022 and updated December 2023

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India Itineraries

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India’s simply too vast and too complex to explore in a single trip. It makes more sense to focus on one, two or perhaps three regions, depending on your time frame. The following India itineraries showcase both the classic attractions and less well-known gems of six distinct areas, from the icy heights of the Himalayas to the sweltering tropical backwaters of Kerala.

Tailor-made travel itineraries for India, created by local experts

13 days  / from 1800 USD

A Trek Through Ladakh's Markha Valley

Trek through the Markha Valley, taking in the jaw-dropping Himalayan landscape, camp in traditional mountain villages, and discover hilltop monasteries. This unique journey combines the culture of the Buddhist faith with the natural beauty of the mountains and the hustle and bustle of Delhi.

15 days  / from 2745 USD

Rajasthan: The Land of Kings

Experience the Land of Kings in luxury.This trip around Rajasthan takes you to Jaipur's palaces, sacred pilgrimage sites and deep into the desert hills. Breathe in the excitement of Delhi and visit the Taj Mahal. Then come nightfall, lay your head to rest in former royal palaces and magical forts.

6 days  / from 785 USD

The Holy City of Varanasi

The flat, sunburnt plains of the Ganges River are India's breadbasket: a densely populated area, it is home to many of the country's greatest sights. See Delhi and all its treasures, then fly to Varanasi, the most sacred stretch of the Ganges and one of India's most intense and atmospheric places.

Recommended India itineraries

India, a land of diverse cultures, landscapes, and histories, offers an array of experiences, from the majestic Himalayas in the north to the serene backwaters of Kerala in the south. 

Our local travel expert, Ravi, says, ' India is not just a destination; it's a vibrant tapestry of experiences waiting to be discovered. With our tailor-made trips, you get more than just a holiday; you embark on a journey curated just for you. '

If you are planning your travel to India, use these itineraries created by our travel experts as a starting point for inspiration.

Looking for an India itinerary by duration? 10 days - 14 days

India Itinerary 1 - The Golden Triangle - 1 week

No other region of India packs in as many awe-inspiring monuments as the so-called “Golden Triangle” connecting Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. Allow at least a week to complete the circuit, with a diversion south to the tiger reserve at Ranthambore if you’ve time to spare.

• Delhi - Start out at Shah Jahan’s mighty Red Fort in the Mughal Old City, then work your way south through the medieval monuments of the southern suburbs.
• Agra - Cross the Yamuna River by boat in the early morning for an unforgettable view of the Taj just after sunrise, then spend the rest of the day ticking off the city’s other Mughal splendours.
• Fatehpur Sikri - Overnight at a guesthouse below the deserted capital of emperor Akbar to see its deep red sandstone architecture at its most ethereal, in the diffuse light of dusk and dawn.
• Keoladeo National Park - Bicycle safaris along the dirt tracks and banks that crisscross this teeming bird reserve offer a perfect antidote to the noise and traffic of India’s northern cities.
• Jaipur - Approach the ochre-walled palace of Amber Fort on elephant back, before spending a day in the textile and gemstone bazaars of the Rajasthani capital – a riot of quintessentially Indian colour.
• Shekhawati - Set on the fringes of the Thar Desert, the painted havelis (walled mansions) in the market towns of this once rich area make the ideal stopover on the journey back to Delhi.

India Itinerary 2 - Around the "Land of Kings" - 1 month

You’ll need at least a month to really do justice to India’s dazzling desert state, Rajasthan, or three weeks at a pinch.

• Jaipur - The Pink City, with its hectic streets and flamboyant Rajput architecture, is a real baptism of fire.
• Ranthambore - If sighting a tiger is a priority, aim to spend at least a couple of nights at a camp near this world-famous reserve.
• Pushkar - Ringed by the white domes and sacred ghats of Hindu shrines, Pushkar makes a perfect base for leisurely desert walks and souvenir hunts.
• Udaipur - Dine by candlelight on a haveli rooftop for the ultimate view of the Sisodia maharanas’ fairytale palaces.
• Jodhpur - Rajasthan’s most spectacular medieval fortress, Mehrangarh, towers above the warren-like old city painted a hundred shades of sky blue.
• Jaisalmer - A long trip across the Thar is rewarded by the sublime vision of Jai Sigh’s yellow-stone citadel floating above the sand flats.
• Bikaner - Quirky architecture and a temple where thousands of rats run free are two vestiges of this city’s former prominence on the trans-Thar caravan route.
• Nawalgarh - After a succession of big cities, this small town on the fringes of the desert makes an enjoyable base for trips to nearby forts and havelis.

Taj Mahal, India

India Itinerary 3 - The Deep South - 3 weeks

The Deep South offers dramatic landscapes and world-class monuments. You’ll need at least three weeks to cover this route comfortably, or two at a rushed pace with your own transport.

• Chennai - The old colonial hub of Fort St George is the standout sight of the Tamil capital, but there’s also a wealth of succulent southern cuisine on offer.
• Mamallapuram - Sculpted by the Pallava kings, Mamallapuram holds a tempting combination of ancient stonework and breezy tropical beaches.
• Puducherry - Soak up the lingering Gallic ambience of France’s former colony on the Coromandel Coast, ideally from the confines of a heritage hotel.
• Thanjavur - The mighty Brihadishwara Temple and collection of Chola bronzes in the town’s art gallery make Thanjavur the perfect springboard for the Kaveri Delta region.
• Tiruchirapalli (Trichy) - Gaze from the summit of Trichy’s exotic rock fort across the Kaveri River to the largest temple complex in India.
• Madurai - The shrine of the Fish-Eyed Goddess is Tamil Nadu’s greatest living monument, renowned for its multicoloured, deity-encrusted gateway towers.
• Periyar - Scale the Western Ghat range to enter Kerala’s Cardamom Hills, where the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary offers the chance to sight elephants.
• Alappuzha - This former colonial trading port provides the entry point for trips into the surrounding backwater region of Kuttanad – a watery world like no other in Asia.
• Fort Cochin - The heritage hotels, arty cafés and funky boutiques of Kerala’s historic harbour town are the ideal end point for a tour of India’s far south.

India Itinerary 4 - Himalayan odyssey - 2-3 weeks

Experience the contrasting landscapes of the world’s greatest mountain range with this two- to three-week journey from the northern plains to the fringes of the Tibetan Plateau and idyllic Vale of Kashmir.

• Shimla - Trundle on the toy train from Kalka through the foothills to this quintessentially Raj-era hill station.
• Manali - Lush forests of deodar cedars, apple orchards and giant, ice-dusted summits flank the hill resort of Manali, in the Kullu Valley – starting point of the trans-Himalayan highway.
• Leh - A breathless, two-day journey across a vast desert of scree and dizzying passes brings you to the capital of Ladakh, marooned in the high Indus Valley.
• The Ladakhi lakes - Charter a jeep for the trip southeast to the hypnotically beautiful altitude lakes of Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri.
• Kargil - Fairytale Buddhist monasteries and stupendous mountain scenery characterize the long haul to the mid-point on the journey to Kashmir.
• Srinagar - Laze on the deck of a houseboat sipping spiced tea while the shadows lengthen on the surrounding mountainsides and shikara canoes filled with fruit and flowers paddle past.

India Itinerary 5 - Rhododendrons and red pandas - 10 days

Kolkata, the capital of West Bengal, is the launch pad for this classic trip through the tea estates around Darjeeling to Sikkim, a beautiful, predominantly Buddhist region in the lap of the Himalayas. You could cover the route in a fortnight; with an additional week, consider a multistage trek into the high country further north.

• Kolkata - Join the flood of commuters crossing the Howrah Bridge, admire the spectacular monuments of the British Empire and discover one of India’s tastiest regional cuisines.
• Darjeeling - Amazing views of distant Kanchenjunga, a quaint Raj-era vibe and the famous Toy Train ride up from the plains account for the perennial appeal of India’s principal tea hub.
• Rumtek - A quiet alternative to nearby Gangtok (the Sikkimese capital), Rumtek is also the site of a spectacular Buddhist monastery.
• Maenam Sanctuary - Tackle the lung-stretching, 1000m ascent of Maenam mountain from Ravangla town for a tantalizing panoramic view of the snow peaks to the north.
• Pemayangtse - The poster boy for northeast Himalayan monasteries, Pemayangtse offers the added bonus of spectacular vistas of Kanchenjunga.
• Varshey Rhododendron Sanctuary - Travellers with a botanical bent shouldn’t miss the chance to trek through this tract of pristine rhododendron forest, home to red pandas and black bears.

India Itinerary 6 - The Deccan Trail - 3 weeks

Despite its extraordinary wealth of historic monuments, the Deccan region of central India sees comparatively few visitors. The rewards for those who do make it are considerable: a succession of astonishing temple sites, crumbling tombs, mosques and deserted capitals spanning sixteen centuries of civilization. Allow at least three weeks for this unforgettable trip.

• Hyderabad - The convoluted ruins of medieval Golconda, on the outskirts of the city, followed by a climb of the Charminar (“Four Minarets”) mosque and a slap-up Hyderabadi feast are the perfect preamble for what lies ahead.
• Bidar - Resembling a town on the Central Asian Silk Route, Bidar’s rambling fort-palace, madrasa, tombs and metal workshops recall this region’s medieval Persian roots.
• Vijayapura (Bijapur) - For three centuries, Bijapur served as the capital of the Deccan. An unparalleled crop of monuments survive from the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, including India’s largest domed tomb, the mighty Gol Gumbaz.
• Badami, Aihole and Pattadakal - The Deccan’s ancient Hindu heyday is represented by this trio of wonderful sites – a feast of enigmatic rock-cut caves, monkey-infested temples and tumbledown forts – in the middle of nowhere.
• Hampi - Rent a bicycle to explore the expansive, beautifully carved remains of medieval India’s most splendid city, set amid a dreamy landscape of banana groves and boulder hills.
• Gokarna - This compact pilgrimage town on the Konkan coast holds plenty of traditional atmosphere, and a crop of gorgeous beaches around the headland to the south.
• Goa - For a self-indulgent spell soaking up the rays and surf of the Konkan, Goa’s hard to beat. Aim for one of the less-developed resorts such as Agonda or Patnem in the south of the state.
• Travelling across central India from Mumbai on the Arabian Sea to Puri on the Bay of Bengal gives you the chance to see some of the country’s most compelling attractions, relax by the beach, and then fly out from Kolkata. Realistically, you’ll need a month for this route, though it could be done in three weeks at a canter.
• Mumbai - Dynamic and exhilarating, this vast megalopolis bombards the senses with the extremes of urban India, and is an excellent place to sample some of the country’s finest dining.
• Aurangabad - A superb base from which to visit the breathtaking cave sculptures and carvings at Ellora and Ajanta. Check out, too, the city’s own “false Taj”, the Bibi-ka-Maqbara.
• Khajuraho - Hidden away in India’s very centre, this medieval temple complex is decorated with the most eye-popping array of erotica you’ll find on any religious building anywhere.
• Lucknow - Visit the now-ruined Residency in the capital of Uttar Pradesh, where a besieged British contingent famously held out for five months during the 1857 uprising. Don’t leave without sampling the city’s succulent dum pukht cuisine.
• Varanasi - The spiritual capital of India, and one of the oldest cities on earth, where you can see bathing and cremations by the sacred River Ganges, and watch the kids fly their kites from your terrace while monkeys scurry around the rooftops.
• Bodhgaya - The Buddha achieved enlightenment while sitting under a bodhi tree at Bodhgaya, one of a trio of sacred Buddhist sites within easy striking distance of Varanasi.
• Puri - Home of the famous annual Jagannath “Car Festival” (Rath Yatra), Puri is also a low-key beach resort, popular with Indian families and Western backpackers, and an excellent place to recharge your batteries.

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written by Andy Turner

updated 15.12.2023

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Emerging trends in Indian tourism: The rise of domestic travel and weekend getaways

From culinary tourism to domestic travel, let's explore the transformative emerging trends that are redefining the essence of indian tourism..

India's tourism sector has seen an exciting transformation in recent years, revealing a colourful tapestry of unique experiences and possibilities for tourists . India has always been a nation of remarkable diversity and cultural richness, nestled between the beautiful Himalayas in the north and the gorgeous beaches of the south. Beyond the typical tourist destinations , the subcontinent is currently experiencing a rush of new trends that are changing how we travel to and experience this fascinating nation. The industry is being further driven to new heights by cutting-edge technology, ecological practices, and the resurrection of lost heritage.

"In recent years, India's tourism sector has seen significant transformation, with domestic travel and weekend vacations gaining appeal. Previously, abroad destinations were typically at the top of the list for Indian tourists looking for new experiences. The dynamics, however, have evolved, and domestic travel has taken the front stage. Domestic tourism and weekend getaways have grown dramatically in India, with 300 million people predicted to take domestic trips in 2023 and 100 million enjoying weekend getaways. A number of variables, such as increasing disposable income, more affordable air travel and other kinds of transportation, more knowledge of India's many tourism opportunities, and expanding social media and online travel booking platform use are all contributing to this trend," says Nirav Akshay Oza, CEO, of Efcee Hotels – A Leela Worldwide Venture. (Also read: Nature's masterpiece: Exploring India's highest waterfalls that leave you awestruck )

He added, "Domestic travel and weekend vacations are on the upswing, which bodes well for the Indian tourist industry. It is boosting economic activity and employment creation in the tourist industry, while also giving Indians greater possibilities to experience their own country. Indians are discovering their own country's plethora of experiences, from gorgeous hill stations to pristine beaches, historical sites to wildlife reserves. Domestic travel is appealing to many people due to its ease, shorter distances, and lower travel expenses. Popular weekend vacation locations include nearby towns and cities as well as well-liked tourist sites that may be reached in one or two days."

Emerging Trends in Indian Tourism

Nirav further shared with HT Lifestyle the emerging trends in Indian tourism, focusing on the growing preference for domestic travel and the popularity of weekend getaways.

1. Escaping the daily grind

With tight work schedules and demanding lives, Indians are increasingly looking for fast and revitalising vacations from city life. Weekend trips have grown in popularity among city residents eager to rest and refresh. Because of its proximity to major cities, individuals and families may arrange short getaways with minimum disturbance to their routines. As individuals seek comfort and indulgence during their weekend getaways, the demand for luxury hotels and resorts near metropolitan centres has increased.

2. Rise of boutique hotels and homestays

Along with the increase in domestic tourism, the popularity of boutique hotels and homestays has increased significantly. These one-of-a-kind accommodations provide unique experiences and the chance to immerse oneself in the local culture. Travellers today want more than simply nice accommodations; they want a genuine and fulfilling experience. Boutique hotels adapt to these changing demands with their finely designed interiors, attention to detail, and personalised services. Similarly, homestays allow visitors to interact with local populations, sample traditional cuisine, and learn about area culture.

3. Culinary tourism

A burgeoning trend in Indian tourism is the rise of culinary tourism, where travellers embark on gastronomic adventures to explore the diverse flavours and regional cuisines of the country. Food enthusiasts are keen to savour authentic local dishes, street food delicacies, and traditional culinary techniques. From the rich Mughlai flavours of Lucknow to the aromatic spices of South India, culinary tourism offers a sensory journey that intertwines history, culture, and palate-pleasing experiences. Luxury hotels and resorts are embracing this trend by curating culinary experiences, organizing food festivals, and promoting farm-to-table dining concepts.

4. Digital transformation and travel technology

The digital revolution has had a tremendous influence on the travel sector worldwide, including in India. Travel technology platforms, smartphone applications, and online booking systems have streamlined the planning and booking procedures, allowing travellers to research and choose their favourite locations with more ease. Furthermore, with people sharing their experiences and recommendations, social media has played an important part in motivating and influencing travel decisions. Luxury hotels are adjusting to this digital reality by offering unified web experiences, personalised marketing initiatives, and responsive customer care.

"Domestic travel and weekend trips in India are on the rise, reflecting a rising desire among Indians to explore their own country and find moments of leisure in the middle of their hectic life. Because of this shift in travel preferences, possibilities for luxury hotels and resorts, boutique lodgings, and eco-friendly places have arisen. Catering to the shifting wants and expectations of travellers will be critical for businesses to flourish as the tourism sector evolves. With its various landscapes, rich cultural legacy, and warm hospitality, India is poised to become a popular domestic and international tourism destination in the coming years," concludes Nirav Akshay Oza.

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2 Week India Itinerary Perfect For Your First Trip To India!

Categories Asia , India , Itinerary

You want to visit India, you only have 2 weeks to visit, you’re wondering ‘can I see India in 2 weeks?’ and ‘where to go in India with 2 weeks?’.

Well, I’m here to help you with this India Travel Guide and 2 Week India itinerary based on my extensive travels in India.

India is HUGE, and you’ll never see all of this crazy and colourful country in one trip, especially in 2 weeks but with 2 weeks in India you can get a good taste of what India has to offer (quite literally with all the delicious food) and you can do a second trip to India another time to see more!

As a first-time traveller to India, I’m sure there are certain places you really want to visit, and there are certain places you really should visit too!

The Golden Triangle itinerary of India comprising of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur is famous and popular to visit on first trips to India for a good reason. It’s full of icons, it’s easy to travel, and set up for international tourism. But with 2 weeks in India, you can also visit a few more places than just the Golden Triangle!

For your first trip to India to see all the highlights, I suggest visiting: Delhi – Varanasi – Agra – Jaipur – Pushkar – Delhi

Does this not look like the itinerary you want? If you’d rather go to South India and see the beaches of Goa and the Backwaters of Kerala, see my 2 week South India itinerary here !

2 Week India Itinerary

Still need to book a flight??

I use Skyscanner to book all of my flights! I’m a huge fan of Skyscanner because I love how easy it is to compare different destinations and different dates for the best price and route!

For example, I type in ‘everywhere’ in the destination if I have fixed dates and want to find the best flights on those dates on Skyscanner .

And if I have a set destination I’ll look at the ‘month view’ to check the cheapest days to fly in that month!

Open Skyscanner by clicking here and search for the best flights as you read this post!

Find What You're Looking For Easily Here!

Best time to visit India

Before we get into this India travel blog, it’s worth thinking about the best time to visit India as the country get’s very hot and wet in the middle of the year. November to March are the best times to visit both North & South India.

South India will be warmer than North India in the winter months of December and January, Delhi and further North actually get cold in these months but are still enjoyable to visit with the right clothing.

Outside these months, you can still visit but you’ll find that the heat and humidity will be much higher, especially as you go further South.

SIM CARD FOR INDIA

I really recommend having a sim card in India as it makes travel in India so much easier! You may have heard that it’s hard to get a sim card in India but you can get a sim card in Delhi Airport, read this post to see how to buy a sim card in Delhi Airport or if you fly in elsewhere 3 ways to buy a sim card in India and you’ll be connected in just a few hours!

WHAT TO WEAR IN INDIA

If you are a woman, here’s what I recommend you pack and wear in India . Technically you can wear what you like in India in most places but to get fewer stares and feel more comfortable, read my post!

DON’T GET SCAMMED IN DELHI

Most people arrive for the first time into Delhi and get scammed within a few hours! Read my Delhi Travel Tips to help you enjoy Delhi, and the best places to stay in Delhi which is so important!

Map of the Best Places to Visit in India in 2 Weeks

Day 1 – Arrive in Delhi

Fly into New Delhi Aiport to start your 2 week India itinerary. Get a sim card . Don’t pressure yourself to do too much today if it’s been a long day. Going for Dinner in Delhi and trying authentic Indian Food for the first time is a big enough activity for your first day in India!

Day 2 – Explore Delhi

Things to do in delhi.

Spend this full day in Delhi on a tour seeing the best of Delhi . Sure you can see Delhi yourself using a mix of rickshaws, the metro, uber’s and foot, but to take the stress off you and ensure you don’t find yourself in a cultural overload, going out to see Delhi’s best sights with a local guide will be best and will help you ease into this itinerary for India.

• My Delhi Blog Posts:
• Top 10 Delhi Travel Tips to help you enjoy Delhi!
• Where to Stay in Delhi. Best Hostels, Hotels & Airbnb’s!

Day 3 – Explore Delhi & Overnight Train to Varanasi

Today you can explore the parts of Delhi that you didn’t get to see yesterday. There are so many things to do in Delhi and Delhi’s metro system is really easy to use and very cheap so be sure to make the most of using this and travel the local way as I think it’s the best way to get around Delhi.

Delhi to Varanasi Overnight Train

Pre-Book an overnight train to Varanasi before arriving in India. I recommend using 12GO Asia  to book & pre-book your trains in India in an easy way. Trains are the best way to see India which I’m sure you know, and an overnight train is a must-do experience when travelling India to save time, especially on your 2 week India itinerary, and to see India the real way.

Train Suggestion: I recommend getting the below train at 20:40 from New Delhi Train Station getting to Varanasi Junction at 8:35 am. It’s the perfect overnight train from Delhi to Varanasi and runs every day. My recommendation is to get the 2AC Class so you have more space.

TRAINS IN INDIA BOOK UP VERY QUICKLY DUE TO HOW MANY DOMESTIC TOURISTS TRAVEL AROUND, ESPECIALLY THE HIGHER CLASS TRAINS LIKE 2AC, I SUGGEST BOOKING YOUR TRAINS AS SOON AS YOU HAVE YOUR DATES CONFIRMED! BOOK THIS TRAIN HERE .

• My Must Read India Blog Posts To Help You See the Best of India!
• 24 places in India Perfect for Your First Trip!
• Step by Step Guide to Planning a Trip to India!
• How to Get a Sim Card in Delhi Airport!
• 10 Delhi Travel Tips to See & Enjoy Delhi as a Tourist!
•   All My India City Guides and Tips

Day 4 – Explore Varanasi

Things to do in varanasi.

Varanasi is such an interesting city to visit. It’s one of the oldest cities in the world, people seem to love it or hate it so I think you have to visit Varanasi on your first trip to India to see what you think for yourself as it’s so iconic and a culture shock, in a good way!

The best things to do in Varanasi are to spend the day exploring the ghats that line the famous River Ganges, explore the ancient streets of the city, and get a lassi from the famous Varanasi lassi shop – Blue Lassi.

Come evening head back to the ghats to watch the evening Aarti ceremony, your first ceremony in India!

• Related Post:
• 2 Day Itinerary for Varanasi!

To help you once you’re on your 2 week India trip, why not take a Lonely Planet India Travel Guide with you.

BOOKING TRAINS IN INDIA

India is best travelled by train because its the quickest, cheapest and best way of getting to know the country. For an EASY option of booking trains in India use 12GO to search and book trains really easily. If you’ll be in India for awhile, you can use the local booking system, it’s a bit tricker but possible, here’s my post on how to book trains in India as a tourist .

BEST ACCOMMODATION IN INDIA

I always use Booking.com to book my hotels in India and Hostelworld to book my hostels . India has a great range of accommodation with brilliant hostel chains like Moustache, Zostel and Backpacker Panda as well as homestays to luxury hotels.

GUIDED TOURS IN INDIA

Many cities in India are best seen with a guide , even if it’s just a half day tour on your first day . Cities in India are chaotic and complex and what better way to taste the food and get to know the city than with a local. I recommend Get Your Guide & Viator for the best tours in India!

Day 5 – Explore Varanasi & Overnight Train to Agra

Jetlag or no jetlag you need to get up early on your first and only morning in Varanasi to go out on a sunrise boat trip on the River Ganges and this will make you realise that Varanasi is one of the best places to visit in India in two weeks! This was one of the most magical things I did in India. As you head to the River, the morning ceremonies will be starting, the sun will be rising and the city will be waking up and you can view it all from the River.

Varanasi to Agra Overnight Train

Pre-Book another overnight train from Varanasi to Agra before you arrive in India for this 2 week India itinerary. This is a long journey and one that you really don’t want to do during the day with only 2 weeks in North India.

Train Suggestion:  The timings are a bit annoying because the best overnight train to get from Varanasi to Agra leaves Varanasi at 17:20 and arrive in Agra bright and early at 6:20 am however this train is known for its delays so you might arrive in Agra later which let’s be honest, is ok!  BOOK THIS TRAIN HERE !

If you want to book your train directly on the Indian Train System, read this step by step guide of mine on how to book trains in India!

Day 6 – Explore Agra

Things to do in agra.

Most people go to Agra just to see the Taj Mahal but there’s actually a lot more to Agra and as you have 2 weeks in India I’d recommend going for longer. The best way to see Agra is with a guide or at least a rickshaw driver who will take you to all the places you’ll want to see and all the things to do in Agra including Agra Fort, the Baby Taj, the Taj Mahal Nature Park and Mehtab Bagh which is a great place to see the Taj Mahal from at sunset.

Enjoy your trip to Agra by visiting these places

• Related Posts:
• Is It Worth Visiting The Taj Mahal? And My Top Tips for Visiting!
• 7 Ways to See The Taj Mahal Without Going Inside the Taj Mahal!

Day 7 – See Taj Mahal in Agra & Train to Jaipur

Taj mahal at sunrise.

The best time of day to see the Taj Mahal is sunrise so get up before sunrise to get first in the queue at the ticket office and be (one of) the first to go in! This is an early morning you will not regret and it must be on your India itinerary.

VERY IMPORTANT INFO: The Taj Mahal is closed on Friday so if your 2 week India itinerary means you’ll spend day 7 in India on a Friday, go on Day 6. Flexibility is key on this Northern India itinerary.

Once you start getting hungry, head out of the Taj Mahal and get breakfast in one of the restaurants with a rooftop overlooking the Taj before going back to your hotel to check out (maybe ask for a late check out on this day) and head to Jaipur that afternoon.

Related Post: Do you want to mix it up and visit some different places to what I suggest in this India itinerary? Have a look at these  24 places in India perfect for your first trip !

Agra to Jaipur Train

Train Suggestion: There’s only one daytime train from Agra to Jaipur which leaves Agra at 14:50 and gets to Jaipur at 18:55 and for this, I would recommend AC Chair Class so you have a comfy experience watching the Indian Countryside go by! BOOK THIS TRAIN HERE .

Day 8 & 9 – Explore Jaipur

Things to do in jaipur.

Jaipur is included in all of the Rajasthan itineraries because Jaipur is full of things to do and full of sights to see from Palaces, Forts, Temples, Markets and Iconic buildings. Once again I’d recommend going on a tour in Jaipur with a guide or at least getting a rickshaw driver to take you around as Jaipur is not pedestrian-friendly.

Jaipur is pretty much where you see a lot of India Instagram photos, and there’s even a Jaipur Instagram spot tour now !

One of the best things to do in Jaipur which I did was an evening Street Food tour with Nomadic Tours.

Spend another full day in Jaipur today. Along with Jaipur having so much to see, the best places to visit in Jaipur are not that close together so 2 days in Jaipur is needed.

I’d recommend spending your evening on day 2 going to the Raj Mandir Cinema in Jaipur , it was one of the best things I did in India because the crowd laugh so loudly at the film and it’s like nothing I’ve experienced before!

• The Best Way To See Jaipur!

Day 10 – Train to Pushkar & Explore Pushkar

Pushkar is a must-visit place in Rajasthan in my opinion because it shows you a totally different side to India from what you have seen so far. Pushkar is a town, not a city and this will give you some time to relax in a holy place which has a backpacker and traveller vibe as well as being an important place for Hindu’s to visit.

Jaipur to Pushkar Train

Train Suggestion: It’s a breezy 2-hour train journey from Jaipur to Ajmer which is the city closest to Pushkar with a train station, from Ajmer you can get a taxi outside the station for 1 hour to Pushkar. I recommend leaving Jaipur at 10:45 am so you have all afternoon to spend in Pushkar. BOOK THIS TRAIN HERE .

Day 11 & 12 – Explore Pushkar

Things to do in pushkar.

Pushkar is the place to take it slow in India and should be on any itinerary for India. Walk around the Holy Lake to witness the Hindu ceremonies that are happening, get some healthy veggie food and a smoothie (Pushkar is all vegetarian with no egg or alcohol), watch the sunset and check out the shops along the main street as Pushkar has some of the best shopping in India I think.

• 12 Things to do in Pushkar
• Pushkar Travel Tips

HELP WITH YOUR INDIA ITINERARY

I’ve spent many months travelling India in the last few years visiting over 50 places around the country, here are my recommended itinerary posts for India to help you plan your trip!

2 WEEK INDIA ITINERARY, PERFECT FOR YOUR FIRST TRIP!

2 WEEK SOUTH INDIA ITINERARY – GOA & KERELA

1 MONTH NORTH INDIA ITINERARY IDEAS!

1 MONTH SOUTH INDIA ITINERARY IDEAS!

2 MONTH INDIA ITINERARY IN THE NORTH & SOUTH

MY 4 MONTH INDIA ITINERARY!

24 BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN INDIA!

Day 13 – Train to Delhi

It’s a fairly long train to get back to Delhi but Pushkar is worth it which is why I had to include it in this 2 week India itinerary, so day 13 in India will be a full travel day.

It would be a good idea to stay in a different area of Delhi than where you stayed at the start of the trip to get a better feel for the city.

Pushkar to Delhi Train

Train Suggestion: I again, recommend booking this train in advance and a good train to get from Ajmer to Delhi is the 12:10 pm because remember that you need to spend an hour getting from Pushkar to Ajmer before your train. BOOK THIS TRAIN HERE BECAUSE YOU DON’T WANT TO NOT BE ABLE TO GET ON.

Day 14 – Leave Delhi

Today you can leave Delhi at any time after your adventure-filled 2 week trip to India on this 2 week India itinerary!

Remember you may get asked for proof of onward travel before you fly to India so it’s a good idea to book a flight out of India before you arrive just in case! 

Overview of the 2 Week India itinerary!

To help with booking accommodation, based on the above itinerary for India (which is the best 2 week India itinerary!) this is where you’ll spend the 13 nights on your 2 week trip around North India:

• Delhi – 2 nights accommodation.
• Overnight train.
• Varanasi – 1 nights accommodation.
• Agra – 1 nights accommodation.
• Jaipur – 3 nights accommodation.
• Pushkar – 3 nights accommodation.
• Delhi – 1 nights accommodation.

Accommodation Recommendations

Based on my extensive time in India, here’s where I recommend you stay in each city I have mentioned in this 2 week India itinerary:

Delhi: Bloom Rooms in Janpath  / Haveli Hauz Khas / Moustache Hostel South Delhi

Varanasi:  Kedareswar B&B /  Moustache Hostel Varanasi

Agra: Safarnama Homestay 

Jaipur: Shahpura House in Jaipur  / Hotel Meghniwas / Moustache Hotel Jaipur

Pushkar: Inn Seventh Heaven in Pushkar

Does this not look like the itinerary you want? If you’d rather go to South India and see the beaches and Goa and Backwaters of Kerala, see my 2 week South India itinerary !

• Now you’ll be set for your trip to India! Enjoy!
• See ALL My India Posts Here!
• See My India Adventure on YouTube Here!

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Sunday 31st of March 2024

I was planning to fly into Columbo, explore Sri Lanka, then take a ferry to India and tour around and then go into Pakistan and fly out of Lahore. I was concerned that both Sri Lanka and India would have issues with me not having exit flights from either. What do you think?

Sunday 22nd of May 2022

How much would you say the whole 2 weeks in India would cost for a low maintenance couple both 28 year old with backpacks? Thanks ?

TheWanderingQuinn

Monday 23rd of May 2022

Hello, I'd say about £600-£1000. Accommodation will be the main cost. Say you spend £30.00-$40.00 per night between you, and then after that meals are just a few £ each per meal, trains can be about £10-15 each depending on the length of the journey and then entry tickets into attractions like palaces :)

Georgia Ireson

Monday 7th of March 2022

What time of year do you recommend to do this please?

Friday 11th of March 2022

The months from November to March are good. Basically avoid summer as it's very very hot and humid.

Vansh Tiwari

Sunday 21st of July 2019

Well organised Itinary for India ??.

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Travel Routes through India: Explore India in 4 weeks

Last Updated on November 21, 2023

Travelling in India for a month? This article will explore travel routes through India in one month. The famous saying goes, ‘a life time is not enough to explore all of India’ , and rightly so. Therefore, we suggest that one month in India is the least amount of time you would want to spend here.

There is no single best route to travel across India, so we have provided 5 different routes. Each outline covers 4 weeks in India and includes an overview of the routes, the destinations, the highlights, and the modes of travel.

The suggested routes are moderate to fast-paced trips, that contain the drawbacks of the tours. They also have an approximate indicative budget for each route, going from backpackers to luxury travellers. You can compare different routes of travelling in India and see what you should be prepared to miss out on. The E-Visa and Visa On Arrival have made India a much simpler place to get to for travellers wanting to visit India.

Read more to understand the best time to visit India and cost of travel in India.

Table of Contents

travel routes through India – route 1: the classic north and south

Route 1: delhi – varanasi – agra – jaipur – jaisalmer – jodhpur – udaipur – mumbai – goa – hampi – kerala ( route on googlemaps ).

This travel route through India is one of the most popular month-long routes for travellers, especially with backpackers . This route has you starting in the historically rich capital of Delhi. Head east to visit Varanasi, one of the oldest continually inhabited cities known to civilization. Travel west to visit the Taj Mahal, and then loop around the desert state of Rajasthan.

While traveling in India, you’ll get to explore cities rich in culture and character in Rajasthan (Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur). You can also take part in the Camel Safari & the Desert Camp in Jaisalmer. End the northern leg of your trip in Udaipur before taking a bus or flight to Mumbai. Travelling to the South is more relaxing, as you’ll be travelling along the same coast as Mumbai . Relax on the beaches in Goa. Explore the boulders and rice fields of the time-bound Hampi. Visit the beautiful state of Kerala known for its backwaters and its tea plantations.

For a more detailed explanation on travelling in India and the best things to do in North India and South India , visit our blogs.

Explore More: Discover Exciting Activities in India

Depending on when you are looking to travel, this travel route through India can be quite busy. This is one of the most frequented routes by travellers wanting to visit India. If you plan on picking it, we suggest you ensure all your transport and accommodation is booked well in advance .

Since all these places are popular among tourists, it’s likely you will bump into more than a few on this trip. While that isn’t always a bad thing, but if you’d like to avoid the crowds we’d suggest you travel a little early (mid July – September) .   While the North would have great weather, the South would be wet, but beautiful.

Backpacker! Boutique! or mix and match, we can help you plan a well thought and cost effective month across India.

Cost of a four week tour across North and South India?

In terms of backpacking – dorm beds, day and overnight trains and a possible flight – you could potentially do this tour for as little as 700 EUR. Together, we can cater to your budget when booking hotels and modes of transport. Travelling in India isn’t extremely expensive in regards to spending money, for example, the food is cheap yet healthy.

route 2: a glimpse of the mountains

Route 2: delhi – dharamshala – amritsar – rishikesh – delhi – jaipur – jaisalmer – jodhpur – udaipur – pushkar – agra – varanasi ( route on googlemaps ).

Being home to a billion people, a million Gods and plenty of wacky rituals, India is also home to the incredible Himalayas. This is the best possible travel route for people who have only a month in India and want to combine their trip to India with a trek in Nepal (Everest Base Camp/Annapoorna Mountain Pass).

You will begin your trip in Delhi, a city extremely central to some of the most prominent locations in North India. From here on, head north to Dharamshala (home to the Dalai Lama), followed by Amritsar (known for the beautiful Golden Temple) and Rishikesh (the Yoga capital of the world, also known for its adventure sports).

After Rishikesh, you come back to Delhi before heading southwest, this time in to Rajasthan. Start with the state’s three gems – Jaipur, Jodhpur & Udaipur – before visiting Pushkar and Agra and then taking an overnight train to Varanasi. Varanasi is quite intense, it’s one of the oldest civilizations in the world and also a great place to end your trip in India. If you’re up for an adventurous assault on the senses, you can take a bus from Varanasi into Nepal.

Luxury Getaways: Hotels in India

Like the first route, this is also extremely popular among travellers, so if you decide to take it, you might want to book your train tickets well in advance. It is a hectic route, so we would recommend it to active travellers.

Apart from that, this is a good route to cover three regions (the Himalayas, Rajasthan and Varanasi) in the month you have in India.

Here’s what our guests who travelled to India with us had to say.

Cost of a mountain tour in India

Again if you plan to backpack, take train and buses you can do the tour for as little as 600 EUR/ 700 USD per person. You would want to double your budget to travel comfortably.

route 3: Exploring the south

Route 3: mumbai – goa – hampi – mysore – bangalore – chennai/pondicherry – trichy/thanjavur – madurai –  munnar – thekkady – alleppey – kochi – varkala ( route on googlemaps ).

As a country, India has a myriad of facets and each region is often drastically different from the last. This travel route through India (the South) will be extremely gratifying – a full trip in itself.

Fly into Mumbai and head South to the fabulous beach state of Goa. Next, you can catch a bus or train to the evergreen Hampi and then spread out across Karnataka from royal Mysore to urban Bangalore before moving southeast to Chennai. Take a long break in Francophile Pondicherry or break it up with the southern spice of Trichy and Madurai. End the trip on the beach in Varkala or carry on to the stunning hill station of Munnar, and the backwaters in Alleppey.

For more detailed information about the best things to do in the South of India , read our blogs. Drawbacks South India is a beautiful region to explore, but it is slightly more expensive compared to the North. Flying into Mumbai and staying there can be quite expensive. There aren’t too many budget options in the South, even though there has been a rise in the number of hostels. It’s also sometimes convenient in the South to hire a car to get from one place to another, which racks up a higher bill than buses.

Plan your journey from the US to India with this helpful resource

route 4: mix it up in south india

Route 4 :  mumbai – goa – hampi – mysore – wayanad – calicut – kochi – munnar – thekkady – alleppey – varkala ( route on googlemaps ).

This route, like the previous one, is all about exploring South India. However, while traveling in India on this route, you will not be travelling southeast. You’ll fly into Mumbai and head South to Goa, Hampi and Mysore before crossing into Kerala and spending the rest of your days exploring God’s own country.

This route is more relaxed and moves at a slower pace than the others, giving you time to soak in the beauty of the South without dropping dead from exhaustion. Getting from Mumbai to Goa to Hampi by bus is not tough, but if you throw in a few trains and maybe a car hire, it’ll be easier.

Drawbacks 

Limited to the South alone, and includes all the same drawbacks as the previous route.

Kerala Awaits: Explore the Best Time to Visit

ROUTE 5: THE NORTH AND THE NORTH EAST

Route 5 :  delhi – bagdogra – gangtok – ravangla – pelling – namchi – darjeeling – kolkata – varanasi – khajuraho – orchha – agra – jaipur – jaisalmer – jodhpur – udaipur – pushkar – delhi ( route on googlemaps ).

The Himalayas, the Taj Mahal and the serene backwaters are a few things that people associate with India. And rightly so! However, India is also home to the divine but underrated Northeast, a virtual paradise nestled in the out-flung arm of the country. So when travelling in India remember this gem as well.

If you are looking to go off the beaten track, this is a great travel route for you to take . Travel through Bagdogra, Gangtok, Ravangla , Pelling, Namchi and Darjeeling, then make your way west to Kolkata; one of the oldest metros in the country. From there you can catch a train to Varanasi, then move through Khajuraho (known for it’s erotic temples), Orchha (the quintessential Indian town), Agra and Rajasthan, before heading back to Delhi.

See Also: Dive into Rajasthan’s Charismatic Destinations

Apart from being diverse, India is also simply large. You may have to take a few flights, Delhi – Badgogra, or Bagdogra – Kolkata to save time, since there is only a month and so much to see and do in it. Travelling in the Northeast could be slightly more expensive as the local transport, though very economical, is inconsistent with its timings. You may want to trade some of your other luxuries on the trip for a comfortable car ride.

Places like Khajuraho and Orchha are beautiful places to visit, but make sure you’ve made travel arrangements in advance. There is a dearth of options and not very great connectivity either.

Further, depending on the time of year you are planning to travel, the North and Northeast can get pretty cold, especially in the mountains. For more information on travelling in India, contact us or check out our blog . Don’t have a month? Here are a few two week itineraries you could follow for North India or the South India . For any further assistance, or for help with planning the trip of a lifetime, simply click on Plan Your Trip .

About Harsh Sonawala

Harsh Sonawala is the co founder of India Someday and since his childhood, he has travelled to different parts of India and the world. The thrill of travelling and sharing his experiences with others was the reason behind starting India Someday. Other than the office where he is conjuring up marketing ideas, he can be found scuba diving in the Andamans or relaxing in a chalet in the Himalayas.

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Hey. My name is Callum and I found your blog through Hippie in Heels. Me and my girlfriend are heading to India for a month is September so this article is super interesting and helpful.

I was wondering if you think that if would be possible to see some of Kerala (flying in from Sri Lanka), before heading north to Mumbai eventually flying to Delhi to explore the surrounding area and some of Rajasthan? Having not been to the country I wouldn’t want to rush it or overlook certain areas by fitting too much in.

Any feedback would be appreciated 🙂

Hi Callum, We are so sorry we missed this comment. If you travel for one month you can certainly combine the south and north of India but it might be a little rushed. But that depends on how many destinations you visit in each region and how you travel in between the regions. Be in touch and we can figure it out together: [email protected]

Best, Your India Someday Team

Hi. Route 1 lookjs great. Is this based on pr8vate transport or public. Also, woukd going to pondicherry after kerala be doable. What cities would fly into and out of?

Hi Michelle,

We can plan any transport and according to any budget you like. Pondicherry after Kerala would only be possible with another domestic flight to Chennai, everything else would take too long. Get in touch with us to plan your trip and we figure something out for you.

Your India Someday Team

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'Goa is not just a beach-destination, it has huge potential for eco-tourism'

Interview, Goa Governor P.S. Sreedharan Pillai

Earlier this month, P.S. Sreedharan Pillai, the governor of Goa and an eminent author who has so far penned 230 books held a symposium on the traditional trees of India at the Raj Bhavan in Goa. Well-known experts from across India participated in the symposium and presented their valuable study papers on India's rich natural heritage. Under his governorship, the Raj Bhavan is taking steps to promote Goa's lesser-known historical and cultural heritage, especially through the governor's widely circulated books, including, 'Heritage Trees of Goa', 'Discovery of Vaman Vriksha Kala' and 'Heavenly Islands of Goa'.

The governor’s writing career began in 1973 with articles, stories and poems. Speaking about Dr Pillai, Goa CM Dr. Pramod Sawant in an earlier occasion, said, "His first book came to be published in 1985 bearing the title 'Rent Laws of Kerala.' The pace of his writings then picked up and he attained the first milestone in his career when his Malayalam book 'Pazhassi Smriti' was released in 2010 by the then President of India, Pratibha Patil." 

The governor's 100th book – ‘Dark Days of Democracy’—was released by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2018. The next 100 books have incredibly come in a short span of 5 years. In an exclusive interview with THE WEEK from Raj Bhavan in Goa, the governor speaks about his interests and more. 

Excerpts from the interview:

Tell us about the symposium on traditional trees of India. What was the idea behind it?

We are bound to promote constitutional provisions mentioned in chapters of Directive Principles and Fundamental Duties. i.e Chapter IV and Article 51 A. Our mother land Bharatvarsha, from time immemorial, expounded that plants are sentient beings, though their faculties are dormant, dull and stupefied. The Rig Veda and Atharva Veda note consciousness in plants. Our ancient findings on plant consciousness are now accepted by the world as true. Jagadish Chandra Bose, the Indian scientist, discovered over a century ago that plants possessed a nervous system similar to animals. Bose became the first to use the term ‘Plant Nerve’. Before him, Augustus Waller from London claimed that he had reported ‘the phenomenon of vegetable electricity’. Bose’s first experiments went to proving plants had life. He invented the machine ‘crescograph’ - (A crescograph is a mechanical device that measures plant growth, and was invented by Bose in the early 20th century) and through it he convinced the world the screams of agony of a fresh cabbage while it was being boiled in water. He demonstrated it before the Royal Society of London in 1901. Nobel Prize winner George Bernard Shaw – (Irish playwright), who was a vegetarian, is said to have wept while witnessing the screams of agony of a fresh cabbage while it was being boiled in water by J.C. Bose. Now, the world accepted the theory put forward by Bose about one century ago. Why did Western scientists and Indians overlook the details of Shri. J.C. Bose’s detailed experiments in full vigor is a question that requires an answer even now.

You say you have a reverence for trees. You have even penned a book titled 'Heritage Trees of Goa'.

It was in Mizoram that I first learnt about my own fascination for trees. Before coming to Goa, I was the governor of Mizoram for almost 2 years. In the National Index of Happiness, Mizoram is ranked No. 1. Its forest cover is 89 per cent in terms of percentage vis-à-vis geographical area. You look at Finland. In the World Happiness Index Finland is ranked as the happiest country on the earth. Its forest cover is 74 per cent. So, you see there is a definite correlation between happiness and forest cover. You all know when trees breathe they take in the carbon dioxide that we breathe out and they release out the oxygen that we breathe in. So, you can then imagine the huge quantum of pure fresh oxygen that is available to all these fortunate people and how much it has contributed to their overall well-being. In terms of other benefits, trees absorb cosmic healing energies from the sun and moon and gently radiate them toward the earth's living beings for their health and well-being. Trees shelter thousands of creatures of all kinds. Every single part of a tree is useful, either as food, medicine, fuel, timber, or as source material for building various things. Therefore, we as human beings must understand and appreciate their indispensable and invaluable existence on the planet. 

You have highlighted Goa's vast green cover and have promoted it for tourism

After I took charge as governor (of Goa) in July 2021, I visited Partagal Mutt in Canacona Taluka to pay my respects to His Holiness. Swamiji informed me about the existence of thousand-year-old a banyan tree in the sacred precincts of Partagal Mutt. It was then I decided that one day I would return to the Partagal Mutt to worship this great banyan tree. About a year later, I began the Saimik Daiz Yatra (journey to learn about natural heritage trees of Goa) by worshipping the thousand-year-old banyan tree in the divine presence of His Holiness and then went on to see and learn about 30 more heritage trees all more than 100 years to 500 years old spread out over the length and breadth of Goa. There were some amazing trees that I discovered on the premises of the temples and churches like Shidam, Satvin, Baobab (an African tree known as 'Tree of Life'), Maddi and Hudo. These trees reflect the deep spiritual and cultural bonds of local communities with nature and have been worshipped and protected by the people over the centuries. These trees also constitute an integral part of the folklore and socio-cultural association of the people with nature and the environment. The yatra resulted in the writing and publication of 'Heritage Trees of Goa' which was released by the governor of West Bengal. The main purpose of this book was to let the country and the world know about the unique eco-cultural heritage of Goa and to promote the state as an eco-tourism destination. 

You have also authored a book titled 'Vaman Vriksha Kala' based on the art of Bonsai and created a Bonsai garden in the Raj Bhavan to further promote this art. Tell us more about it.

‘Vaman Vriksha Kala’ is a monograph focusing on the specialised subject of ‘Bonsai’ i.e. potted trees. In fact, the name of the book means 'the art of miniature trees.' The prime intention of the book is to firmly establish the fact that Bonsai is originally an Indian art, as against the widely held belief that it belongs to China and Japan. In the book I have provided sufficient evidence from ancient Sanskrit texts to establish this claim that the art of Bonsai has its roots in India, and why our ancestors reduced trees to potted size.

Then there is this book on Kaavi Art, a type of stencil technique with red soil and lime, most often found in coastal Maharashtra and Karnataka. How did you come to write a book on it? 

I was fascinated with Kaavi Art as it is Goa's only native painting technique and it happened during my visit to Bicholim when I witnessed the restored Kaavi artworks at the Shree Hanuman temple at Advalpale. Later, we had a four-day workshop at the Raj Bhavan in Goa to promote this art. I truly believe that Aaavi Art is a masterpiece of Goa's cultural heritage. It is also important to note that Prime Minister Narendra Modi mentioned the importance of Kaavi Art in his 'Mann Ki Baat' episode in 2021. I am sure it will bring nationwide attention to this ingenious art form. 

It will be four years since you assumed charge as Governor of Goa. What do you think are the aspects that still require a change in the state?

The first and foremost change is required in the mindset that Goa is a beach-only destination. There is so much more to this state that needs to be talked about. Goa has a huge potential as an eco-tourism destination, with a rich historical and cultural heritage. At the Raj Bhavan that has been my single-minded focus so far and that is how I have highlighted varied aspects of Goa through numerous books that I have authored over the last four years. 

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Our ultimate 3 week india itinerary: the best places in 2024.

Out of the dozens of countries we have now travelled to, I think India was the most daunting when it came to planning a route .

And, as you might have already guessed, it comes down to one simple reason …

India is huge!

It is almost the size of a small continent and, with so many hundreds of towns and cities to choose from, it’s almost impossible to know where to start.

Well, after weeks of research and speaking to fellow backpackers who have been there, we designed a 3 week India itinerary that covered many of the most famous cities.

And, in the end, I’m really happy with how it turned out!

So, if you’re looking to visit many of India’s most famous sites and cities, such as the Taj Mahal or the city of Mumbai , and you’re limited to just 3 weeks in India, then this is the itinerary for you.

Our India travel video

Interactive map our our 3 week India itinerary

Travellerspoint

Firstly, a little bit on Indian Visas

One of the things I love most about India is how cheap it is to travel the country in relative comfort and style.

However, that being said, they really rip you off with their visa fees!

It’s by far the most expensive visa we’ve ever had to pay and it is also the most ridiculous to try and navigate and fill out.

Which is such a shame as I think charging so much above-the-odds for a visa is stopping so many budget travellers from gaining the opportunity to visit.

As a UK citizen, I had to pay $USD136 for a 2 month visa with 2 entrances.

It was annoying having to pay this much, seeing as we only had 3 weeks to spend in the country.

But alas, someone makes the rules and we have to stick to them.

If you want to take some of the complexity out of arranging things, then you can get your Indian visa from e-Visa or a similar online agency. Do note that they charge a fee for their service, but it does take a lot of the stress out of the process.

If you're happy to sort your visa yourself like we did, then here are a few sites you can use when sorting your visa:

• India Tourist Visa Prices
• The Official Website For Purchasing Your Visa
• How To Answer The Awkward Questions On The Visa Form

Our Awesome 3 week India itinerary from South to North

Now that's out the way, let’s get down to why you’re actually here ….

Here is our final 3 week India route that covered many of the major tourist spots.

NOTE: You can travel this route in either direction. We chose south to North as we started our journey in Sri Lanka and ended with a trip to Nepal.

Here's a map of the route we took ...

Stop 1: Goa - 5 nights

Goa, in itself, is a very large area that you should take time to explore.

We spent a few nights up near Vagator Beach in the north and then a couple more nights in the south near to Benaulim Beach.

To be honest, I would not recommend going to Vagator, despite so many reviews online saying it’s the nicest beach in the whole of Goa.

Instead, check out this awesome guide on Goa beaches that Cazzy wrote and create your own 5 night mini Goa itinerary.

• Where to stay in Goa: In a private pool villa of course!

Overnight train - 1 night

If you really want to experience Goa, then I recommend taking an overnight train at some point.

It is possible to book a space in a First Class sleeper cabin that has air conditioning at is very comfortable and affordable.

Alternatively, book yourself a day train and that way you get to see more of the spectacular Indian countryside.

Stop 2: Mumbai - 3 nights

For me, Mumbai was the pinnacle of what you believe India to be like. It is a huge, crazy, hectic city that is bursting with people, colour and life.

By spending 3 nights here you really get to take it all in and explore the city in its entirety.

Alternatively, you could spend just 2 nights and then take the train north to Udaipur.

However, this would be an incredibly long journey. We flew instead.

• Where we stayed in Mumbai: Backpacker Panda Appetite

Stop 3: Udaipur - 2 nights

Udaipur is a pleasant mix of typical Indian business, alongside historically significant sites.

To really make the most of Udaipur and enjoy everything it offers, you ideally need to hire a moped for the day and head outside of the city to explore the local lakes and forts.

Alternatively, you can book a space on a bus tour that takes you to many of the ones much further out.

• Where we stayed in Udaipur: Treebo Park Classic Udaipur

Stop 4: Jodhpur - 2 nights

Jodhpur is famously known as the Blue City, due to the large array of buildings covered in blue wash that makes them stand out beautifully from the right angle.

Again, there’s plenty to do here. But what I will say is that you 100% must stay in the same place as what we did!

It was cheap, architecturally stunning from the inside and had prime views of the famous Mehrangarh Fort.

• Where we stayed in Jodhpur: Castle View Home Stay

Stop 5: Pushkar - 2 nights

Next on our 3 week backpacking route of India we have the extremely famous religious city of Pushkar.

At certain times of the year, this small charming city becomes one of the most densely populated areas anywhere in India.

It plays host to the famous Camel Festival which is hosted in November each year.

We just missed out on it, but likely wouldn't have got accommodation anyway, as the entire city books up weeks (or even months) in advance!

It is also a crucial pilgrimage site in India as it contains India’s one and only Brahma temple .

• Where we stayed in Pushkar: The Country Side Resorts

Stop 6: Jaipur - 2 nights

We were fortunate enough to be staying in Jaipur during the epic Hindu festival of Diwali.

Jaipur is already an incredibly exciting city filled with so many historic sites to explore.

On any other day of the year, it is a busy place to try to walk, ride or drive through.

But during Diwali, this goes to a whole nother level!

The streets are filled with millions of people celebrating the Festival Of Lights, with children constantly setting off fireworks and firecrackers either into the sky or underneath boxes so they explode.

• Where we stayed in Jaipur: The Livin

Stop 7: Agra - 2 nights

Though there are a few key sites to see in Agra, there is one main reason this should be on your 3 week India route …

The Taj Mahal.

This is easily India’s most famous monument and it’s hardly a wonder why.

It is truly magnificent and, despite being talked about and praised so widely, it really does live up to expectations .

Just make sure you book yourself into a hotel in Agra near to the Taj Mahal so that you get to stay outside of the busy city centre and can get there as early as possible in the morning.

• Where we stayed in Agra: Radisson Blu Agra Taj East Gate

Stop 8: New Delhi - 2 nights

As the capital of India, it’s only fitting that your 3 week trip through India should either end, or begin, in New Delhi.

It is jam packed full of things to do and is a city that truly does seem to be booming.

For me, it was a little too busy and getting in and out of the city to the outskirts is an absolute nightmare.

But then again, would you expect any less?

• Where we stayed in New Delhi: Hotel Paragon Suites (Would NOT recommend!)

Total = 20 Nights + 1 Night Spent On An Overnight Train = 3 Weeks

How do you get around India?

Another reason why we picked all of these major cities in our 3 week India itinerary is because it is relatively straightforward to get between each one.

There are 4 main modes of transport you can use in India …

For the majority of journies, we used buses, and these can usually be booked very cheaply a day or two before from one of the many tour operators dotted around each city.

In fact, when in Udaipur, we went ahead and booked our bus tickets from Udaipur to Jodhpur and Jodhpur to Pushkar.

The second mode of transport that we used was train.

We took 2 train journeys, one being an overnight train from Goa to Mumbai and the other being a train from Jaipur to Agra.

The first one we booked by visiting the train station in Margao (Goa) directly and the second one we booked in Udaipur at the same tour operator who booked our bus tickets.

It is possible to book train tickets online through this website , however after numerous attempts of trying to validate our account I simply couldn't get it to work.

Instead, we booked through a tour operator who used the exact same system but charged a booking fee of around $USD0.50 each.

So for a dollar in total we saved ourselves a whole bunch of hassle and stress in trying to book them ourselves.

3. Airplane

The third mode of transport that we used was flying.

We had two flights in total, one being from Mumbai up to Udaipur and the other being from Chennai, which is in the south of India, to Goa.

I didn't add Chennai into this 3 week itinerary of India, simply because we were only there as a stopover destination on our flight from Sri Lanka.

Flying is by far the most convenient way of covering large distances across India.

Our 4th and final mode of transport in India was Uber .

As well as using it in most cities in order to get around from place to place, we also used it to go from Pushkar to Jaipur.

It worked out as about twice the price of a bus, but this is a small price to pay for higher levels of comfort and for at least an hour shaved off the journey time.

Final thoughts on planning a 3 week route through India

Though this turned out to be an ideal 3 week route for us, it doesn’t mean that it’s ideal for you.

We chose this route because it covered many of the most historic and significant cities in India, and made good sense geographically.

Importantly, it covers the famous Indian Golden Triangle, which means visiting the 3 important cities of New Delhi, Agra and Jaipur.

However, you are limited to just 3 weeks and want to spend more of your time relaxing and enjoying the coastline, you might wish to extend your time in Goa and cut out a few of the cities.

I still recommend trying to fit in the Golden Triangle tour if possible.

Alternatively, you might be keen to spend time practising yoga or getting away from the hustle and bustle of the cities.

In which case, there are a number of retreats dotted across India, particularly in the north.

Also, if you do want to change up your itinerary then think strategically about how you will get from place to place.

If possible, book any flights or train journeys as far in advance as possible.

First Class AC train tickets book up weeks in advance, so try and get a solid itinerary in place before you arrive in India.

Other than that, all you have left to do is embrace the hectic nature of India and prepare yourself for a true explosion of the senses!

As long as you enter the country with an open mind, then there’s no reason why you won't truly love your time there and have an unforgettable experience.

If there’s any places you think I missed off and that you have included in your own final 3 week India backpacking itinerary, then let me know in the comments below!

Read Also: Top Backpacking Destinations Around The World

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Best Places to Visit in April in India

Best places to visit in april in india, here is the list of 42 best places to visit in april in india, 1. srinagar, jammu & kashmir - the paradise on earth.

Known For : Dal Lake Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden Shankaracharya Temple

Sheltered by the snowy white mountains, Srinagar is the most picturesque in spring because of the flowering tulips making it one of the best places to visit in April in India. The famous Tulip Festival features cultural programs, the sale of local handicrafts and Kashmiri folk songs. However, ensure to confirm the exact dates before visiting as it changes each year. And yes, one must surely not miss the traditional Kashmiri Cuisine, while here. Weather in April: High/Low: 20°/ 8°

Best Time: April to October

56 Srinagar Attractions

2. Andaman - Blue seas, virgin islands and colonial past

Known For : Cellular Jail Scuba Diving In Andaman Radhanagar Beach

Replete with picturesque shimmering beaches, lagoons of turquoise blue waters and a bit of history, Andaman & Nicobar Islands is one of the most loved places to visit in April in India. Tucked around 1,400 km away from the east coast, the Havelock and Neil Island are the most famous islands known for pearly white sands, palm-lined shores and offer some of the best snorkelling and diving options in India. Weather in April: High/Low- 37°/ 26°

Best Time: October to Jun

81 Andaman Attractions

3. Manali, Himachal Pradesh - Lover's Paradise - India's Honeymoon capital

Known For : Hidimba Temple Solang Valley Manu Temple

Nestled in between the snow-capped slopes of the Pir Panjal and the Dhauladhar ranges, Manali is one of the most popular hill stations visit in April in India. From museums to temples, from quaint little hippie villages to bustling upscale streets, river adventures to trekking trails, Manali has every reason to be the tourist magnet it is. Weather in April: High/Low: 12°/ 1°

Best Time: October to June

51 Manali Attractions

4. Munnar, Kerala - Kashmir of South India

Known For : Echo Point, Munnar Atukkad Waterfalls Munnar Tea Plantations

The idyllic hill station Munnar - famous for its tea estates, exotic lush greenery and craggy peaks, is located in the Western Ghats, in the state of Kerala. It serves as the commercial centre for some of the world’s largest tea estates. In addition, Munnar has many protected areas which are home to endemic and highly endangered species like the Nilgiri Thar and the Neelakurinji. Weather in April: High/Low: 27°/ 16°

Best Time: September to May

51 Munnar Attractions

India Travel Packages

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Best India Tour Package - Shimla, Kullu and Manali

Kashmir tour package 9 days with gondola ride, leh ladakh summer holiday package with nubra & pangong stay, bestseller andaman and nicobar tour package, sikkim tour package for 7 days - excursion to tsomgo lake, shimla manali dharamshala dalhousie tour package - day trip to khajjiar, 5. dalhousie, himachal pradesh - little switzerland of india.

Known For : Panchpula Khajjiar Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary

Dalhousie is one of those cool mountain retreats that the British left behind, with pine-clad valleys, meadows, dense jungles, waterfalls and distant mountain views. It is a perfect place to unwind from the fast-paced life of a metro. Visit the British-era churches of St John and St Francis and experience the old world charm here in the majestic Victorian style mansions sprawled along the town. Weather in April:  High/Low: 18°/ 7°

Best Time: Throughout the year

28 Dalhousie Attractions

6. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh - Birthplace of the 6th Dalai Lama

Known For : Sela Pass Tawang Monastery Madhuri Lake

Located at a height of about 3048m, is known for many important and beautiful monasteries and is famous for being the birthplace of the 6th Dalai Lama, Tsangyang Gyatso. Tawang is the place to go for monasteries and orchid sanctuaries like Tawang Monastery  and Tipi Orchid Sanctuary. Tawang is a place which will flatter you with its natural beauty wrapped in the scent of spirituality. Weather in April: High/Low: 15°/ 4°

Best Time: March - June; September - October

12 Tawang Attractions

7. Auli, Uttarakhand - The skiing destination of India

Known For : Skiing in Auli Trishul Peak Auli Ropeway

Dotted with the apple orchards, old oaks, and pine trees there is no dearth of natural beauty in Auli. It's known to be the most adventurous skiing spots in India. Apart from skiing you can also go for numerous treks in the hills of Garhwal Himalayas and enjoy the spellbinding views of the snow-draped mountains hence one of the best places to visit in April in India.  Weather in April: High/Low- 17°/ 7°

12 Auli Attractions

8. Cherrapunji - Meghalaya's dew drop

Known For : Double Decker Living Root Bridge Dawki Nohkalikai Waterfalls

Among the wettest place on the Earth, Cherrapunjee with its clean and pristine surroundings is an excellent place to sit back and unwind. With a unique climate gifted to the area, its an untouched beauty with waterfalls such as Dain Thelen falls, Noh Sngithiang falls, Noh Kalikai falls that compliment the climate and the flattering pleasant air around. Best to visit this place in April to enjoy this rainy misty place with the lavish expanse of the Bangladeshi plains from its cliffs. Weather in April: High/Low: 24°/ 14°

Best Time: October to February

21 Cherrapunji Attractions

9. Mount Abu, Rajasthan - A beautiful hill station in Rajasthan

Known For : Nakki Lake Guru Shikhar Toad Rock

As the only hill station of Rajasthan, the cool atmosphere and lush green surroundings make Mount Abu a popular tourist spot.  Undoubtedly the Dilwara temples is an important attaction as it is one of the most stunning piece of architecture. Enjoy calm and relaxed boating in the Nakki Lake, and a view of the sunset from the Sunset Point. The highest peak of the Aravali Range also lies in Mt. Abu, surrounded by dense green forests. Weather in April: High/Low: 33°/ 19°

Best Time: October to March

21 Mount Abu Attractions

10. Coorg, Karnataka - The Scotland of India

Known For : Abbey Falls Raja's Seat Mandalpatti

Located amidst imposing mountains in Karnataka with a perpetually misty landscape, Coorg is the place to be for all nature lovers. Forest covered hills, spice and coffee plantations only add to ts breathtakingly exotic scenery and lush greenery. The mist of clouds covering the mountains and the pleasant breeze accompanying throughout definitely makes Coorg a much sought-after destination in April. Weather in April: High/Low- 31°/ 19°

37 Coorg Attractions

11. Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu - The Princess of Hill Stations

Known For : Green Valley View (Suicide Point) Kodaikanal Lake Bear Shola Falls

Kodaikanal is a tiny misty, and mountainous hill town located in the Palani Hills of the Western Ghats. The mountains are draped in forests of pine, gum trees and kurinji shrubs. Festivals, flower shows, and white waterfalls make Kodai one of the best places to visit in April in India. Also while here, don’t miss out to shop for cheese, embroidery work, homemade chocolates and handicraft items. Weather in April: High/Low- 26°/ 14°

35 Kodaikanal Attractions

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

Known For : Pangong Lake Khardung La Magnetic Hill

Stunning Gompas, fluttering prayer flags, whitewashed stupas, Ladakh is a riot of intricate murals and red-robed monks. Dominated by dramatic landscapes, Ladakh is known as the world's coldest desert and hence an adventure playground for rafting and high-altitude trekking. Other tourist attractions such as monasteries, Shanti Stupa, cafes and Leh Bazaar defines the place's culture. Ladakh is accessible in April, but it still extremely cold. Weather in April: High/Low: -14°/ -4°

Best Time: April - Mid-July

70 Ladakh Attractions

13. Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra - The land of Strawberries

Known For : Elephant's Head Point Chinaman's Falls Dhobi Waterfall

A hill town in the Western Ghats, Mahabaleshwar is replete with beautiful rivers, magnificent cascades and majestic peaks. It is one of the best places to visit in April in India as it's well known for hosting the Annual Strawberry Festival . Tourists often stay at Mahabaleshwar to enjoy freshly grown strawberries and pick out their favourite berry products. Weather in April: High/Low: 32°/ 18°

31 Mahabaleshwar Attractions

14. Kasauli, Himachal Pradesh - Cozy little hill-station

Known For : Monkey Point Toy Train Ride Timber Trail

Located on the way from Chandigarh to Shimla, Kasauli is a hilly cantonment town nestled amidst beautiful woody forests of pines (Chir Pine), herbs (Milk Thistle) and cedar trees which makes for an ideal peaceful holiday location, especially for a weekend getaway. Kasauli is a beautiful place to visit in spring as it's surrounded by lush greenery, nature trails and beautiful viewpoints. Weather in April: High/Low: 23°/ 12°

Best Time: March - June; September - November

12 Kasauli Attractions

15. Munsiyari, Uttarakhand - Little Kashmir

Known For : Birthi falls Maheshwari Kund Panchachuli Peak

Often referred to as "Little Kashmir", Munsiyari is a cosy hamlet located in the Pithoragarh District of Uttarakhand. Situated at an altitude of 2298 metres, the pretty little hill town is known for its panorama of snow-capped Himalayan Range and some adventurous trekking trails. The scenic village is often seen romancing with brilliant weather throughout the year and the stunning backdrop of Panchachuli (the five peaks), Nanda Devi and Nanda Kot.  Weather in April: High/Low: 16°/ 5°

Best Time: April to June, October to November

16 Munsiyari Attractions

16. Darjeeling, West Bengal - Queen of The Himalayas

Known For : Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Tiger Hill Batasia Loop

The black tea capital of India, Darjeeling is known for its sprawling tea plantations, gothic architecture and local beer made from fermented finger millet. The Peace Pagoda built here is one of the most frequented spots by those inclined towards learning more about Buddhism. One of the most loved experiences of frequent travellers here, is to watch the sunrise on the Kanchenjunga from the Tiger Hill. Weather in April: High/Low: 19°/ 10°

Best Time: February to March, September to December

30 Darjeeling Attractions

17. Gangtok, Sikkim - The Gateway to Sikkim

Known For : Nathula Pass MG Road, Gangtok Tsongmo Lake

A very popular tourist destination, Gangtok is true to its name (meaning “hill top”), as it is like a sprawl of multi-storey concrete boxes tiered along a mountain ridge. Gangtok has breathtaking scenery, glacial lakes, trekking paths, monasteries and scrumptious food. When clouds clear, typically at dawn, views are inspiring with Khangchendzonga soaring above the horizon. It is one of the best places to visit in April in India if you are looking for an offbeat destination. Weather in April: High/Low: 22°/ 12°

34 Gangtok Attractions

18. Lonavala, Maharashtra - Misty Weekend Getaway

Known For : Tiger's Leap Rajmachi Fort Imagicaa

Popular hill station close to Pune and Mumbai, Lonavla is best experienced during monsoons. Surrounded by dense forests, waterfalls, and dam alongside lakes, it is a must-visit if you admire nature. Known for camping and trekking, Lonavala is more often frequented by adventure sports enthusiasts. The most popular trek is the Andharban trek that starts from a village called Pimpri and ends in Bhira. Weather in April: High/Low: 36°/ 20°

41 Lonavala Attractions

19. Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir - Valley of the Shepherds

Known For : Aru Valley Chandanwari Baisaran

With untouched and gorgeous natural beauty, Pahalgam is a feast to the eyes and senses. Submerged in lush greenery and alluring Himalayan ranges, it calls for some moments of quiescence at nature's own home. As the glaciers melt by April, you can go white water rafting and trek along the Lidder River to Aru or Chandanwari to experience the wonder of the hills. In the summer, the valley looks verdant green. Weather in April: High/Low: 14°/ 4°

19 Pahalgam Attractions

20. Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh - The little Lhasa in India

Known For : Dalai Lama Temple St. John in the Wilderness Church Dharamshala Cricket Stadium

The home of the Dalai Lama and the spiritual centre for the Tibetan Buddhists, Dharamshala is a beacon of spirituality with the awe-inspiring natural beauty. This is one of the best places to visit in April in India to replace the chilly winters for the pleasant summers. Trekking and visiting monasteries is a must. If you're not so adventurous, simply relaxing in the serene beauty of Dharamshala will leave you rejuvenated. Weather in April: High/Low: 23°/ 12°

38 Dharamsala Attractions

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

Known For : Triund Bhagsu Falls Bhagsunag Temple

Mcleodganj is a hill station near Dharamshala, popular among trekkers. Located in Kangra district, Mcleodganj's culture is a beautiful blend of Tibetan with some British influence. Also known as Little Lhasa and famous around the world for being home to the Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama. Some of the must visit places are the Dal Lake, Namgyal Monastery, Bhagsu Falls and Triund.  Weather in April: High/Low: 21°/ 10°

42 Mcleodganj Attractions

22. Wayanad, Kerala - Nature's Abode

Known For : Banasura Sagar Dam Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary Chembra Peak

Replete with waterfalls, historical caves, comfortable resorts and homestays, Wayanad in Kerala is famous for its spice plantations and wildlife. Walking through the sprawling spice plantations, trekking to the pre-historic caves and experiencing a resort holiday are one of the many things you can do to get a taste of Wayanad. Weather in April: High/Low: 33°/ 19°

35 Wayanad Attractions

23. Coonoor, Tamil Nadu

Known For : Sim's Park Dolphin's Nose Ketti Valley

One of the three beautiful Nilgiri hill stations, Coonoor is the second largest hill station of the Western Ghats. It is situated at an altitude of 1930 meters and just 19 km from Ooty . With slopes of tea plantations, dotted with many attractions and blessed with chilly weather throughout the year, this place is a perfect summer retreat. Weather in April: High/Low: 26°/ 15°

17 Coonoor Attractions

24. Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand - Home to the Royal Bengal Tiger

Known For : Jungle Safari in Corbett National Park Corbett Waterfall River Rafting in Corbett National Park

India’s first national park and named after the legendary tiger hunter Jim Corbett, the Corbett National Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. It has a variety of wildlife and birdlife in grassland, sal forests and river habitats. Your best bet to spot a tiger is from April – June, when the forest cover is low and the animals come out in search of water. Commonly seen wildlife include sloth bears, langur monkeys, rhesus macaques, peacocks and several types of deer. Weather in April: High/Low: 30°/ 17°

Best Time: Mid October to Mid June

19 Jim Corbett Attractions

25. Pachmarhi, Madhya Pradesh - Queen of the Satpuras

Known For : Bee falls Jata Shankar caves Pandava Caves

With the Satpura Tiger Reserve close-by, Pachmarhi is one of the most serene spots in the heart of the country. The only hill station in Madhya Pradesh is flanked on all sides by the majestic Satpura range and dotted with beautiful 10,000-year-old man-made cave shelters, dense sal forests and bamboo thickets. The cool and calm environment all around the year makes Pachmarhi the top pick for summers. Weather in April : High/Low: 33°/ 20°

18 Pachmarhi Attractions

26. Mon, Nagaland - The Home of Konyaks Nagas

Known For : Veda Peak Shangnyu Village Chenloisho Village

Mon is a must-visit place in the first week of April if you want to witness the Aoleang festival of the Konyak Nagas. A vibrant mix of modern and traditional, it is celebrated as the beginning of the new year with the spring season, after sowing seeds for the first crop of the year. With dances, music and games, it aims to spread peace and cultural harmony among the tribes. The rare headhunter and tattooed Nagas are seen in great numbers during this time. Weather in April: High/Low: 27°/ 16°

Best Time: October to May

5 Mon Attractions

27. Sarahan, Kinnaur - Gateway to Kinnaur

Sarahan is a beautiful hamlet situated near Kinnaur in the state of Himachal Pradesh. Famous for the never-ending apple orchards, dense emerald pine and deodar forests, gushing streams, wildflower fields rustic settings, terraced farms and slate-roofed houses,  the village is a sight to behold. The unparalleled beauty of the landscape, with mountains flanked by cliffs on one side and lush ravines on the other, not to forget the Srikhand Mahadev Peak make Sarahan a memorable place. Weather in April: High/Low: 30°/ 15°.

28. Kalimpong, West Bengal

Known For : Morgan House Durpin Dara hill Cactus Nursery

With evergreen alpines Kalimpong is a virgin hill station in West Bengal. River Teesta provides adventurers to row downriver during the rapids. If you're more into a relaxed and laid back vacation, you can take a stroll through fragrant cardamom and cinnamon plantations (talk about natural aromatherapy!) or feast their eyes on the acacia, bamboo and orchid fields. Don't be surprised if you spot rarities like the red panda, Asiatic black bear, and the pangolin here. Weather in April: High/Low: 24°/ 14°

Best Time: March to June, September to December

24 Kalimpong Attractions

29. BR Hills, Karnataka - Of picturesque and exotic flora and fauna

Known For : BRT Wildlife Sanctuary Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple Adventure Activities

Weather in April : High/Low:31°/ 18°

5 BR Hills Attractions

30. Pench National Park, Madhya Pradesh - The inspiration for 'The Jungle Book'

If your sole aim of visiting a national park in India is spotting a tiger, then look no further. Fondly referred to as the Mowgli Land, Pench National Park inspired Rudyard Kipling’s popular novel “The Jungle Book”. Made up of teak trees, this place has a different flavour altogether. April is the best time to spot the Tigers, who come out every few days to drink water at the stream. The Elephant rides are the most fun way of going on a hunt to spot the tigers. Weather in April: High/Low: 37°/ 21°

31. Thekkady, Kerala - Periyar-India's Largest Tiger Reserve

Known For : Periyar National Park Periyar Tiger Trail Bamboo Rafting in Thekkady

Thekkady is one of the best places to visit in April in India to experience the Chitra Pournami Festival. A 1000-year-old temple, it is located deep inside the forests of the Periyar reserve. The temple is opened only once a year to pilgrims during the Chitra Poornima Festival, as poojas are conducted throughout the day. Home to the country's largest Tiger Reserve- Periyar, Thekkady is a great way to enjoy a jungle vacation and april is also one of the best months to spot wildlife. Weather in April: High/Low: 31°/ 20°

24 Thekkady Attractions

32. Khajjiar, Himachal Pradesh - Mini Switzerland of India

Known For : Khajjiar lake Homestay Experience in Khajjiar Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary

Often referred to as 'mini-Switzerland of India', Khajjiar is a small town located close (20km) to  Dalhousie  and is great for a day or overnight trip. Khajjiar is known for its picture perfect grassy meadows.There is a small lake in the middle of the meadow and you could enjoy the scenery by yourself or take part in some of the adventure sports including paragliding, zorbing, and horse-riding. Weather in April : High/Low: 18°/ 7°

14 Khajjiar Attractions

33. Mussoorie, Uttarakhand - The queen of hill-stations

Known For : Mussoorie Mall Road Kempty Falls Camel's Back Road

Mussoorie is one of the most popular hill stations located at a distance of 290 km from Delhi in the Dehradun district of Uttarakhand. With a backdrop of the Shivalik range of Himalayas and doon valley, Mussoorie, also known as Queen of The Hills, stands at an altitude of 7000 feet above sea level. With a cool and pleasant climate throughout the year, Mussoorie was once the British summer capital. Weather in April: High/Low: 21°/ 11°

Best Time: September to June

36 Mussoorie Attractions

34. Ooty, Tamil Nadu - Queen of the Nilgiris

Known For : Nilgiri Mountain Railway Ooty Lake Emerald Lake, Ooty

Nestled amidst Nilgiri hills, Ooty, also known as Udagamandalam, is a hill station in Tamil Nadu which serves as a top-rated tourist destination. Once regarded as the summer headquarters of the East India Company, the Queen of the hills is a picturesque getaway. Dotted with tea gardens, serene waterfalls, winding country lanes, and charming colonial architecture, Ooty is one of the best places to visit in April in India.  Weather in April: High/Low: 25°/ 13°

43 Ooty Attractions

35. Masinagudi - An Enchanting Hillstation with Diverse Wildlife

Known For : Mudumalai National Park Theppakadu Elephant Camp Bandipura Tiger Reserve and National Park

Masinagudi is a quaint hill station located just a 1-hour drive away from Ooty. The Mudumalai National Park is the highlight here and is popular amongst visitors. Apart from Mudumalai, the Bandipur Tiger Reserve is also a popular hotspot here. One can engage in wildlife spotting, fishing, go on many exciting safaris by hiring private jeeps, sit by the stunning Moyar River or even go boating there. Visit the Theppakadu Elephant Camp for an unforgettable experience amongst elephants. Weather in April : High/Low: 36°/ 22°

5 Masinagudi Attractions

36. Jammu and Kashmir - Paradise on the Earth

Popularly known as the "Paradise on Earth", Jammu and Kashmir is world famous for its scenic splendour, snow-capped mountains, plentiful wildlife, exquisite monuments, hospitable people and local handicrafts. Your trip to Jammu and Kashmir will be a memorable one as the state will not only appeal to you with its scenic beauty and snow-covered mountain ranges, but the adventure sports will take you to a different world. Weather in April: High/Low: 17°/ 10°

16 Jammu and Kashmir Attractions

37. Shillong, Meghalaya - Scotland of the East

Known For : Umiam Lake Elephant Falls Laitlum Canyons

A beautiful city encircled by pine trees, Shillong is the capital of Meghalaya. It derives its name from Lei Shyllong, an idol worshipped at the Shillong Peak. Standing as tall as 1496 meters, this hill station is known for its weather, picturesque locations and traditions. This place is also known as the ‘Scotland of the East. One can find descendants of the Khyrim, Mylliem, Maharam, Mallaisohmat, Bhowal and Langrim tribes. Weather in April: High/Low: 22°/ 13°

33 Shillong Attractions

38. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand - Yoga Capital of the World

Known For : Rafting in Rishikesh Lakshman Jhula Triveni Ghat

Located in the foothills of the Himalayas along the convergence of Ganga and Chandrabhaga River, Rishikesh is a small town in the Dehradun district, located close to Haridwar in Uttarakhand. Rishikesh (also called as Hrishikesh) is known for its adventure activities, ancient temples, popular cafes and as the "Yoga Capital of the World". Gateway to Garhwal Himalayas, Rishikesh is also a pilgrimage town and one of the holiest places for Hindus. Weather in April: High/Low: 32°/ 18°

53 Rishikesh Attractions

39. Nainital, Uttarakhand - City of Lakes

Known For : Naini Lake Snow View Point Mall Road Nainital

Nainital is a charming hill station located at the foothills of the Kumaon ranges in Uttarakhand. Located close to Dehradun and Delhi, it is the most visited hill station in North India. It is easily accessible from nearby major cities by road and is ideal for a 2-day visit.  Nainital experiences a pleasant climate throughout the year, making it one of the best places to visit in april in india. Go boating in the beautiful Naini Lake, relish some Garhwali and Kumaoni delicacies and shop for mementoes during your visit.  Weather in April: High/Low: 22°/ 11°

33 Nainital Attractions

40. Matheran, Maharashtra - Cutest little hill-station of India

Known For : Louisa point Charlotte lake Monkey Point Matheran

Nestled amidst the Sahyadri range on the Western Ghats, Matheran is a cosy little hill station that stands at an elevation of 2600 feet above sea level, and is just 100 kilometres away from Mumbai, making it the perfect weekend getaway. With its name literally translating to “overhead forest”, Matheran is the smallest hill station in India but is extremely popular in terms of tourists looking for a short trip amid spectacular vistas and serenity. Weather in April : High/Low: 35°/ 19°

29 Matheran Attractions

41. Shimla, Himachal Pradesh - The Hill-Station with Rich Colonial History

Known For : Mall Road, Shimla The Ridge Jakhu Temple

Shimla is the capital of Himachal Pradesh and a popular hill-station among Indian families and honeymooners. Shimla still retains its old-world charm with beautiful colonial architecture, pedestrian-friendly Mall Road and the ridge lined up with multiple shops, cafes and restaurants. The weather is pleasant for most of the months with tourists flocking especially during the summer months. The nearby towns of Kufri, a hill-station and Chail, famous for a huge palace and the highest cricket ground in the world  is almost always covered by snow.  Weather in April: High/Low: 19°/ 8°

63 Shimla Attractions

42. Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu - Cape Comorin or The Land's End

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

Bordered by the three seas - Arabian, Indian and the Bay of Bengal, Kanyakumari is small coastal town  in the southernmost tip of the Indian Peninsula. The town has a mountainous terrain with elevated patches of hills, coconut trees and lined with paddy fields. Kanyakumari is also the only place in India where you can observe the sunrise and sunset at the same beach. The town is not only popular for its unique phenomenon but also its temples and the Vivekananda Rock Memorial  among other iconic monuments. Weather in April : High/Low: 33°/ 26°

28 Kanyakumari Attractions

Which of these best places to visit in April in India have made to your bucket list? For when you are out of travel ideas and every other time there is - Holidify!

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FAQs on Best Places to Visit in April in India

Is it good to visit goa in april.

With the temperature fluctuating between 25 to 35 degrees Celcius, the weather from March to May is extremely hot and humid. Although great for water sports, if you're somebody with a minimal tolerance to heat, it's best to visit Goa during the winters or monsoons. 

Read more about the Best time to visit Goa . 

Which place is best for 4 days trip in India in April?

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• 41 Best Places To Visit In June In India: 2024 Summer Vacations Done Right

23 Mar 2023

Summers get hotter with time and we know that a list of top places to visit in June in India is exactly what you need right now. From enticing places to visit to exciting things to do, we’ve listed everything you need to know about these places to visit in India in summer. Get ready for a memorable vacation with some of the most fascinating places like Wayanad, Chikmagalur, Rishikesh, Ladakh, Andaman and Nicobar and more.

41 Best Places To Visit In June In India

Here is the list of the best places to visit in June in India that you might not want to miss this year. Check the list and choose what all places are you going to cover. You will find several places from Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, and other places in India. Take a look at this terrific list of the best places to visit in June in India!

• Ladakh – Haven For Nature Lovers
• Auli – Tranquil Getaway
• Shimla – Tourist’s Top Choice
• Rishikesh – Ideal For Adventure Seekers
• Goa – Perfect For Friend’s Getaway
• Tirthan Valley – Camp, Bonfire & Chill
• Mount Abu – Rajasthan’s Hill Station
• Kasol – Trek, Explore & Camp
• Malana – Ideal For A Quaint Trip
• Kanatal – For Peace-Seekers
• Dhanaulti – Minimal Human Intrusion
• Kamshet – Ideal For Picturesque Views
• Kudremukh – Vast Green Patches
• Kodaikanal – Scenic Lakes & Mighty Waterfalls
• Pondicherry – Laze Around On The Beach
• Sikkim – Heaven-Like Landscapes
• Manali – Perfect For Family Trip
• Kashmir – Go For A Heavenly Vacay
• Coorg – Place Of Beautiful Sceneries
• Shillong – Click Picturesque Landscapes
• Dalhousie – Opt For Paragliding
• Almora – Explore The Heritage Town
• Wayanad – Ideal South Trip Place
• Spiti – Witness Natural Beauty
• Valley Of Flowers – Trek With Your Buddies
• Mcleodganj – Calm Your Senses
• Mussoorie – The Queen Of Hills
• Tawang – Ideal For Adventure-Junkies
• Lansdowne – Perfect Escape From Citylife
• Dehradun – Nature Lovers’ Delight
• Munnar – Hauntingly Beautiful
• Lavasa – Add Extra To Your Ordinary
• Pune – Taking Picturesque To A New High
• Ooty – Incredibly Spectacular
• Mizoram – For Its Uniqueness
• Yercaud – For Hardcore Mountain Lovers
• Chakrata – For An Offbeat Experience
• Nainital – Be In Touch With Nature
• Darjeeling – Queen Of The Hills
• Kasauli – A Revitalizing Retreat
• Ponmudi – A Quaint Hill Town

1. Ladakh – Haven For Nature Lovers

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If at all there is a destination in India packed with action, it indeed is Ladakh . Being the first one out of the best places to travel in June in India, Ladakh is synonymous with its peaceful monasteries, mountain ranges, pristine lakes, numerous trails, highest motorable roads and panoramic views, all at their best. Visit it with family or friends, the charm of Ladakh can be relished by everyone.

Ideal Duration: 6 Nights/7 Days Places to Stay: The Grand Dragon Ladakh, Hotel Singge Palace, The Zen Ladakh, Hotel Shambhala, Hotel Chube. Weather: Ladakh enjoys a sunny weather in June and the temperature range is in between 20°C to 30°C. Places To Visit In Ladakh : Nubra Valley, Shanti Stupa, Khardung La, Thikse Monastery, Leh Palace, Magnetic Hill, Gompa, Chang La and many more. Things To Do In Ladakh : Trek to Chadar, go on a motorbike ride to Magnetic Hill and Khardung La, enjoy river rafting in the Indus river, mountain climbing at Stok Kangri, jeep safari in Ladakh and much more. Average Budget: ₹11,500-16,500 per person How To Reach:

• Leh Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport is the nearest airport to Leh.
• Jammu Tawi is the nearest railway station at a distance of 700 kilometers from Ladakh.
• By road you can take the Manali-Leh road which is a total of 473 kilometers and this routes opens by mid of June.

Tips: Since it is located at a great height, spend a day in the town for acclimatzation.

Must Read: 23 Best Trekking Places In India

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2. Auli – Tranquil Getaway

Snowbound from all sides, Auli in Uttarakhand is one of the most cool places to visit in India in summer and one has a lot of reasons to visit Auli. Taking you closer to the Himalayas , spending this summers in Auli will surely be an experience of a lifetime. While the destination transforms into a snowy paradise in winters, it can equally be explored and enjoyed at in summers.

Ideal Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days Places to Stay: The Himalayan Abode, Hotel Manik Resort Auli, Hotel Mount View, Hotel Auli D, The Sleeping Beauty Weather: Auli is one of the cold places to visit in June in India. The maximum average temperature recorded has never risen above 20°C. Places To Visit In Auli : Artificial Lake, Gurso Bugyal, Kwani Bugyal, Chattrakund, Chenab Lake, Joshimath, Nanda Devi Peak, Trishul Peak, Vishnuprayag, Rudraprayag and Badrinath temple. Things To Do In Auli : Skiing in Auli, Cable car ride to Joshimath, trek to Kuari Pass to Khulara, enjoy camping at Nanda Devi ranges and river rafting at Alaknanda River. Average Budget: ₹8,000-13,000 per person How To Reach:

• Jolly Grant in Dehradun is the nearest airstrip.
• Haridwar is the nearest railway station to Auli.
• One can also opt to take the cable car, popularly known as gondola which is a 4 kilometers ride from Joshimath and takes about 20 minutes to cover this distance.

Tips: You won’t find snow during this time but you surely can enjoy camping in the woods.

3. Shimla – Tourist’s Top Choice

Shimla forms the core of getaways when it comes to the popular hill stations from New Delhi, and is surely one of the best places to visit in India in June with family . Forming the base for most of the travellers, Shimla also connects major destinations like that of Manali, Auli and Leh via road and leads the travelers to embark on some of the most unforgettable journeys.

Ideal Duration: 3 Nights/4 Days Places to Stay: The White Haven Homestay, Kavya Homestay, Geeta Cottage Homestay, Somewhere Over the Rainbow, The Loft In The Hills Weather: The weather is pleasantly mild and 15°C to 30°C is the maximum temperature recorded in Shimla. Places To Visit In Shimla : Rashtrapati Niwas, Jakhoo, the Ridge, Christ Church, Annandale, Scandal Point, Green Valley, Kufri, Shimla Glen and many more. Things To Do In Shimla : River rafting at Tattapani, mountain biking, heli skiing and golfing in Shimla, go on nature walks, shop at the famous Mall road and much more. Average Budget: ₹6,000-10,000 per person How To Reach:

• Jubarhati is the nearest airport to Shimla which is 23 kilometers away.
• Shimla is very well connected via railways to the other states in India.
• Many state-run and private buses function from Delhi, Chandigarh and Manali to Shimla.
• By road, you can take Delhi-Ambala-Kalka-Solan-Shimla route.

Tips: Shimla has a huge influx of people during the summers. Travel responsibly and don’t litter around.

Suggested Read: 7 Most Haunted Places In Shimla

4. Rishikesh – Ideal For Adventure Seekers

A land that offers peace and adventure in its purest form, it does not come as a surprise when Rishikesh which happens to be one of the most coolest places to visit in India during June is also known as the adventure capital of India . Filled with some of the best adventurous activities, you name it and Rishikesh has it all. From rafting to rappelling, indulge in thrilling activities that will evoke your inner adventurer in no time. It is counted among the best beach places to visit in June.

Ideal Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days Places to Stay: Vashishth Guesthouse, Maa Ganga Guest House, Yashraj Guest House, Baliram Guest House, Rishikesh Stay Weather: The weather in summers is moderate and the temperature has been in the range of 20°C to 35°C. Places To Visit In Rishikesh : Ram Jhula, Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, Laxman Jhula, Rajaji National Park, Triveni Ghat and Goa beach. Things To Do In Rishikesh : River rafting in river Ganga, camping and kayaking in Rishikesh, rappelling over Shivalik Himalayas, bungee jumping from Mohan Chatti, flying fox and giant swing in Rishikesh, trek to Panch Kedar and Chandrashila and much more. Average Budget: ₹8,000-13,000 per person How To Reach:

• Jolly Grant airport in Dehradun is located just 35 kilometers away from Rishikesh.
• Haridwar is the nearest railway station which is just 25 kilometers away.
• A self-drive from New Delhi to Rishikesh would take about 5 to 6 hours roughly.

Tips: Avoid partaking in adventure activities if it is raining.

5. Goa – Perfect For Friend’s Getaway

A beach lover’s paradise , you are bound to fall in love with Goa at the first sight. With its rich Portugese architecture , bustling beaches, and vibrant environs, Goa needs no introduction amongst the places to go in June to a traveler who already wishes to spend the best of summer vacations in Goa.

Ideal Duration: 6 Nights/7 Days Places to Stay: Blue Corner Beach Huts & Restaurant, Vivanta Goa, Dom’s Inn, Yahvi The Boutique Hotel, Nomad Residency Weather: Summers in Goa are comparatively hot but the beaches do all the magic and temperature ranges between 28°C to 33°C. Places To Visit In Goa : Basilica of Bom Jesus, Dudhsagar Falls, Fort Aguada, Agonda Beach, Tomb of St. Francis Xavier, Candolim beach, Benaulim Beach, Cavelossim and Varca beach. Things To Do In Goa : Kayaking in Palolem beach, Kneeboarding in Candolim beach, Windsurfing at Vagator beach, scuba diving at Grande Islands, Jet skiing in Calangute and more. Average Budget: ₹7,000-11,000 per person How To Reach:

• The Dabolim Airport is located just 29 kilometers away from the Panjim city.
• By train, you can reach Goa via two main railway heads of Madgaon and Thivim.

Tips: Take this opportunity to explore North Goa

Suggested Read: 32 Hidden Places In Goa

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Nikhil Recites A Tale Of 11 Friends Who Went From Bengaluru To Ladakh

Bengaluru - Delhi - Leh - Ladakh - Leh - Delhi - Amristsar - Chandigarh - Bengaluru

Pranav Took A Solo Trip To Andaman & It Was Truly Wonderful

A backpacker's guide to the predominant Honeymoon destination!

Shivani Talks Of Her Trip To Mcleodganj & Dalhousie With Her Husband And Friends

Sunset views. Monasteries. Bhagsunath falls. And amazing street food.

Kanika Proves That Traveling With An Infant To Kerala Is Totally Safe & Wonderful

Beaches, Backwaters, Spas, & More. Take me there now, please!

Here's Why Aakanksha's Trip To Manali Changed Her Idea About Group Tours

Ideal long weekend getaway from Delhi! Isn't it?

Isha Elaborates On How She Went Solo To Kasol & Returned With Lots Of Friends

And tales of her exciting Kheerganga & Chalal trek...

Prasham's Account Of A Goa Tour Proves That Goa Is More Than A Party Destination

Adventure, sightseeing, laid-back beach tours, and it doesn't stop there!

Bhavya Gives An Extensive Account Of His Jaisalmer Trip With Friends

Desert safari, haunted Kuldhara village, & Gadisar Lake. There's more...

Ashish Tells Why Kashmir Turned Out To Be A Winter Wonderland For His Family

For Gondolas, Shikaras, and plenty of snow!

Arunav Can't Stop Praising His Adventurous Trip To Sikkim & Darjeeling With Friends

For adventure in Air, on Land, and in Water!

Avneet Describes Her Trip To Spiti With A Group Of Strangers That Became Friends

Sightseeing. Monasteries. Trekking. And beauty all along

6. Tirthan Valley – Camp, Bonfire & Chill

Being one of the most beautiful and coolest places in India , Tirthan Valley got its name originally from the Tirthan river which flows through Himachal Pradesh from the Himalayan glaciers. Home to the famous trout fishes, Tirthan Valley serves as an offbeat destination without which your list of summer vacation destinations is totally incomplete. From the snow-capped mountains to the gorgeous rustic huts, make the most of summers at Tirthan Valley with your friends and family.

Ideal Duration: 3 Nights/4 Days Places to Stay: Trishla Resort, For A While, JJ Resort, Sharda Resort, Green Alpine Weather: Tirthan Valley enjoys a pleasant weather and the average temperature lies under 29°C. Places To Visit In Tirthan Valley: Great Himalayan National Park, Jalori Pass, Seloskar Lake and more. Things To Do In Tirthan Valley: River crossing, trout fishing, trek to Great Himalayan National Park, trek to Jalori Pass, bird watching, camping and rock climbing. Average Budget: ₹6,000-9,000 per person How To Reach:

• Kullu is the nearest airport to Tirthan Valley located about 50 kilometers away.
• Kalka is the nearest railway head at a distance of 240 kilometers.

Tips: The best and the only way to reach here is by car. Enjoy camping in the woods.

7. Mount Abu – Rajasthan’s Hill Station

Located in the Sirohi district, Mount Abu is the one and only hill station of Rajasthan set in the Aravalli range of mountains. In a state famous for deserts, places to visit in Mount Abu serve as a famous retreat to escape the pricking heat of summers in Rajasthan. With a pleasant climate throughout the summers, Mount Abu is one of the favorite getaways for most of the travelers living in North India.

Ideal Duration: 1 Nights/2 Days Places to Stay: Colonial Kaanchi House, Krishna Pushp Farm House, Green View Cottage, Forest Eco Lodge, The Fern Ratan Villas Weather: Mount Abu enjoys a pleasant climate and the average temperature lies between 17°C to 32°C. Places To Visit In Mount Abu: Dilwara Jain Temples, Sunset Point, Guru Shikhar, Nakki Lake, Adhar Devi Temple, Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary and more. Things To Do In Mount Abu : Bailey’s Walk, trek through the Wildlife Sanctuary, rock climbing at Mount Abu, trekking, caving, rappelling at Mount Abu, trek to Trevor’s tank and more. Average Budget: ₹8,000-13,000 per person How To Reach:

• Dabok Airport in Udaipur is the nearest airport to Mount Abu at a distance of 185 kilometers.
• Mount Abu railway station too is connected to most of the metropolitans and nearby cities.
• By road, you can take the National Highway 14 to get to Mount Abu.

Tips: Make a point to visit the Monsoon Palace if you want to enjoy the rainy season at its best.

Suggested Read: 21 Best Hotels In Mount Abu 

8. Kasol – Trek, Explore & Camp

Kasol serves as the perfect getaway for all the backpackers around the world, and especially for those who’re looking for a June trip in India. Nestled in between the mountains of the Parvati Valley, there is no dearth of things to do in Kasol . It is much famed to be a trekker’s paradise, and hosts varieties of exciting trance and EDM parties, while this hippie’s paradise is also home to many reggae bars and famous bakeries.

Ideal Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days Places to Stay: The Himalayan Village, Baragarh Resort, Devdhar Hilltop Cottages, Apple Valley Resort, Kasol Heights Weather: Kasol enjoys a pleasant climate throughout the summers and temperature ranges from 15°C to 22°C. Places To Visit In kasol : Parvati river, Kheer Ganga Peak, Bhuntar Town, Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara and more. Things To Do In Kasol : Tosh Valley Trek, Fishing in Parvati river, trek to Kheerganga, camping in Kasol, trek from Rashol Pass to Kasol and more. Average Budget: ₹6,000-9,000 per person How To Reach:

• Bhuntar Airport located near Kullu is the nearest airport at about 31 kilometers.
• Pathankot railway station is the nearest railway head which is 150 kilometers away.
• By road you can take a bus or drive yourself from Delhi and nearby cities.

Tips: Take a dip in the hot springs of Manikaran.

9. Malana – Ideal For A Quaint Trip

Break the monotonous routine and get yourself some taste of Malana which is famed to be the oldest democracies in the world. Located at a height of 9500 ft above the sea level, the lesser known Malana is a fantastic village that is set amidst the snowbound mountains of the Parvati Valley. Trek, hike, camp, and do a lot more at this secluded village that is hid amidst the mountains of Himachal.

Weather: Malana is comparatively cooler in June and the average temperature is around 18°C in summers. Places To Visit In Malana : Malana village, Weichin Valley, The Jamdagni Temple, The Shrine of Renuka Devi and more. Things To Do In Malana: Trek through the Chanderkhani Pass and Rashol Pass, trek up till the Baralacha pass towards Manali-Leh road and more. Average Budget: ₹6,000-9,000 per person How To Reach:

• Kullu airport is the nearest which is 40 kilometers away.
• Shimla is the closest railway station to Malana.
• Take buses or taxis from Manali and reach Malana which is 90 kilometers away.
• One can drive from Jari to Nerang and reach Malana through a trek of 2 hours.
• Malana is 378 kilometers away from Delhi you can reach roughly in 10 hours.

Tip: Stay at a homestay for an authentic local experience.

Suggested Read: 11 Secret Homestays In Himalayas

10. Kanatal – For Peace-Seekers

Surrounded by mountains, rivers and greenery on all sides, any traveler would wish to stay a bit longer in Kanatal. Located in Uttarakhand, Kanatal is also one of the budding hubs of adventure sports, and outdoor activities. While the place is high on adventure, there many things to do in Kanatal that can be of interest for all types of travelers.

Ideal Duration: 1 Nights/2 Days Places to Stay: Bliss of Nature, Himalayan Roots, Hotel Pine Queen, Kanatal Resorts & Spa, Hotel Whyt Weather: Kanatal enjoys a moderate climate during summers and temperature ranges from 25°C to 38°C. Places To Visit In Kanatal : Surkanda Devi Temple, Kodia Jungle, New Tehri, Kodia forest and Chamba Things To Do In Kanatal : Burma bridge crossing, Commando walking, natural rock climbing, flying fox and rappelling at Dhanaulti-Tehri road, valley crossing and overnight camping in Kanatal and much more. Average Budget: ₹6,000-9,000 per person How To Reach:

• Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is the nearest airport.
• Dehradun railway station is the nearest railway head to Kanatal.

Tips: Don’t forget to visit Eco Park for adventure activities.

11. Dhanaulti – Minimal Human Intrusion

Owing much to the rise of many outdoor adventures, Dhanaulti has become one of the main tourist destinations in Uttarakhand, and one of the best places to travel in June in India. Located amidst the lush Deodars forests, and offering awe-inspiring views of the Himalayas, the peaceful environs of Dhanaulti makes it one of the serene places to visit during summers. Don’t miss out on the things to do in Dhanaulti listed below.

Ideal Duration: 1 Day Places to Stay: The Peru Resort By Signum, Livingstone Riverside Hills Resort, 180 Degree Resort, Dewdrop Classic Fall Resort Weather: Dhanaulti enjoys a pleasantly moderate climate in summers and the temperature ranges from 7°C to 31°C. Places To Visit In Dhanaulti : Surkanda Devi Temple, Deogarh Fort, Barehipani and Joranda Falls, Eco Parks and Dashavatar Temple Things To Do In Dhanaulti : Trek to the Pine Forest, cross the Burma Bridge and experience rock climbing at Dhanaulti adventure park, camping at Awara Camps, Dhanaulti and much more. Average Budget: ₹7,000-9,000 per person How To Reach:

• The Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is the nearest airport located just 75 kilometers to Dhanaulti.
• Dehradun is the nearest railway head located just 50 kilometers away.
• By road, you can reach Dhanaulti from Delhi in roughly 9 hours covering about 293 kilometers.

Tips: Enjoy camping in the woods.

Suggested Read: 10 Best Sites For Camping In Dhanaulti And Kanatal 

12. Kamshet – Ideal For Picturesque Views

A quaint and best hill station to visit in June in India which is located in the district of Pune, nature is at its best in Kamshet which is set 2,200 ft. above sea level. Offering picturesque views of the Western Ghats, Kamshet is much renowned for its flying schools, and paragliding adventures. For those who’ve always wanted to experience the ultimate thrill, must visit Kamshet at least once in their lifetime.

Ideal Duration: 1 Night/2 Days Weather: 20°C to 30°C. Places To Visit In Kamshet: Uksan lake, Bhaja and Bedsa Caves, Bhairi Caves, Pavana Lake, Kondeshwar Temple, Shinde Wadi Hills, Bhandara Dongar and more Things To Do In Kamshet: Day paragliding in Kamshet, acrobatics paragliding in Shindewadi Hills, nature walking, rock climbing, trek to Tikona Fort and much more. Average Budget: ₹8,000-13,000 per person How To Reach:

• Pune airport is the nearest airport to Kamshet as it is just 45 kilometers away from the city.
• Kamshet railway station is an economical mode of reaching the place which lies between Mumbai and Pune railway station.
• By road, you can reach Kamshet from Pune in just about an hour via self drive.

Tips: If you want to enjoy paragliding, monsoon may not be a good time.

13. Kudremukh – Vast Green Patches

Located in the Chikkamagaluru district of Karnataka, Kudremukh literally translates into a horse’s face which refers to the shape of its peak which is like the face of a horse. Popular for its impressive landscapes, Kudremukh is one of the best places to visit in South India during summer as well as the most serene of all hill stations in Karnataka .

Ideal Duration: 1 Night/2 Days Weather: With the onset of monsoons by the end of June, Kudremukh enjoys a moderate weather with the average temperature that ranges between 30°C to 35°C. Places To Visit In Kudremukh: Kudremukh National Park, Kalasa, Hanuman Gundi Falls, Gangamoola, Horanadu and Lakya Dam. Things To Do In Kudremukh: Trek to Kudremukh Peak, jeep safaris through the Kudremukh forests, experience the best of nature walking in Kudremukh National Park and more. Average Budget: ₹6,500-11,500 per person How To Reach:

• Mangalore airport is the nearest airstrip which is 130 kilometers away.
• Mangalore railway head too is closest to Kudremukh.
• KSRTC buses and private buses run from Mangalore, Bangalore and Karkala to Kudremukh.

Tips: Start as early as possible if you want to trek for Kudremukh.

Suggested Read: 35 Road Trips From Bangalore 

14. Kodaikanal – Scenic Lakes & Mighty Waterfalls

A popular hill station located in the Dindigul district of Tamil Nadu, Kodaikanal never fails to impress the travelers with its charm. Located high on the granite cliffs at 7,200 ft above sea level, Kodaikanal is surrounded with lush forests, scenic lakes, mighty waterfalls and majestic hills all around which also makes it a most sought honeymoon destination in Tamil Nadu.

Ideal Duration: 1 Night/2 Days Places to Stay: Vivera Grande, Parsons Court, Hotel Theni International, JC Residency, Fortune Pandian Weather : Kodaikanal enjoys a pleasant climate throughout the summers and the temperature fluctuates between 11°C to 21°C. Places To Visit In Kodaikanal : Kodaikanal Lake, Berijam Lake, Coakers Walk, Pine Forest, Pillar Rocks, Kurinji Andavar Temple, Mannavanur Lake, Bryant Park and Shembaganur Museum of Natural History Things To Do In Kodaikanal : Nature walking around the Pine forests, witness a sunrise from the Kodaikanal peak, boating, horse riding, fishing, trekking and mountain biking and much more. Average Budget: ₹9,500-14,500 per person How To Reach:

• Madurai airport is the nearest to Kodaikanal at a distance of 120 kilometers.
• Kodaikanal Road is the nearest railway station from where one can hire a cab to get to the city.
• One can take the regular local buses from most of the nearby cities.
• By road, you can also drive from Chennai, Bengaluru and Madurai to Kodaikanal and enjoy the scenic views.

Tips: It can get chilly, so don’t forget to pack woollens.

15. Pondicherry – Laze Around On The Beach

This vibrant French colonial city is the favorite hangout spot for all the fun-seeking people in Chennai. With numerous beaches, colorful French architecture and welcoming people, and plenty of things to do in Pondicherry aka Puducherry, it is the most fun-filled retreat to travel with family as well as with friends. When looking for beach vacations in June in India, don’t forget to add this destination on your list. 

Ideal Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days Places to Stay: Bleu & Blanc Cottages, Edan beach cottage, Pondicherry Guest House and cottages, Pondicherry cottages and lodges Weather: Puducherry enjoys a pleasant but humid climate throughout the summers and the average temperature ranges from 26°C to 42°C. Places To Visit In Pondicherry : Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Temple, Seaside Promenade, Paradise Beach, The Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Immaculate Conception Cathedral, Serenity beach, Rock beach, Auroville, French War Memorial and much more. Things To Do In Pondicherry : Enjoy sightseeing through the french town on a bicycle, witness sunrise at the Promenade beach, enjoy scuba diving at the Temple Reef, enjoy a speed boat ride and jet skiing at the Paradise beach, experience boating at the Chunnambar Boat House and more. Average Budget: ₹9,000-14,000 per person How To Reach:

• Though Chennai International Airport is the nearest to Puducherry located at a distance of 135 kilometers, Puducherry has a domestic airport in the Lawspet district.
• The nearest railway head is that of Villupuram which is 35 kilometers from Pondicherry.
• By road, take the East Coast Road (ECR) from Chennai to drive along the bustling coastline of Tamil Nadu enroute Mahabalipuram.

Tips: Wear light cotton clothes as the weather in Puducherry can get hot and humid.

Suggested Read: 40 Things To Do In Pondicherry 

16. Sikkim – Heaven-Like Landscapes

Sikkim is one of the most beautiful destinations in India that you must visit for a blissful experience. Dotted with several buddhist monasteries, jaw-dropping views of Kanchenjunga and serene nature, it will surely give you an experience to cherish forever!

Ideal Duration: 3 Nights/4 Days Places to Stay: Burpeepal Cottage, The Garden Cottages, Kee-Rong Cottages, Cherry Guest House, Norbu Ghang Resort Weather: June is the best time to visit Sikkim and the temperature remains from 20 degrees to 27 degrees. Places To Visit In Sikkim : Lake Tsomgo, Rumtek Monastery, Yumthang Valley Things To Do In Sikkim : Wildlife-spotting, riding a yak, Cable Car ride Average Budget: ₹12,000-17,000 per person How To Reach:

• The nearest airport to Sikkim is Pakyong airport.
• The nearest railway station to Gangtok is in New Jalpaiguri.

Tips: The higher you go, the higher are your chances to see snowfall.

17. Manali – Perfect For Family Trip

Manali should be on your list when you are looking for places to visit in India in june, because during june the weather is very pleasant, every aspect of the nature comes to life and it looks very beautiful. Though you wont find snow, you can enjoy outdoor activities as much as you can!

Ideal Duration: 3 Nights/4 Days Places to Stay: Apple Country Resorts, Kalista Resort, Solang Valley Resort, Vivaan The Sunrise Resort, La Ri Sa Resort Weather: June is the best time to visit Manali and indulge in sports activities. Places To Visit In Manali : Hidimba Devi Temple, Manali Sanctuary, Manu Temple Things To Do In Manali : River rafting, Paragliding, Skiing Average Budget: ₹6,000-9,000 per person How To Reach:

• The nearest airport to Manali is in Bhuntar which is 50 kms away.
• You can reach Manali from Delhi by road, it takes approx 12 hours.

Tips: There is a huge influx of people during the summer season. Make sure you make your bookings in advance.

Suggested Read: 21 Honeymoon Places In India In May 

18. Kashmir – Go For A Heavenly Vacay

How can one forget the paradise on earth? Definitely, Kashmir is one of the best spots on the earth to visit in June. It is the ultimate source of natural serenity, peace and tranquility. Whether you are on an expedition with your friends, family, partner, you can’t afford to miss out on the plenty of things to do in Kashmir!

Ideal Duration: 6 Nights/7 Days Places to Stay: New York Houseboats, New Lucky Kashmir Houseboats, The Vintage Gulmarg, Veena Palace Houseboats, Roseland Cottage Weather: Kashmir experiences a hot weather in June. The temperature can go as high as 45 degrees. Places To Visit In Kashmir : Gulmarg, Sonmarg, Pahalgam Things To Do In Kashmir : Shikara ride, Houseboat stay, Cable Car ride, Shopping, Pony ride, heritage walk Average Budget: ₹8,000-13,000 per person How To Reach:

• The nearest airport to Kashmir is Srinagar airport.
• The nearest railway station to Kashmir is Jammu Tawi. From there you can reach the city by cab, bus or car.

Tips: Book a houseboat for an enchanting stay.

19. Coorg – Place Of Beautiful Sceneries

If you are a tea and coffee lover, this place will definitely impress you! Coorg is known for its beverage and spices plantation. Go, visit a coffee plantation, know about the process, buy some original coffee and get a heartwarming experience!

Ideal Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days Places to Stay: The Heritage Resort, The Parampara Resort, Vivanta Taj Resort, The Windflower Resort, The Ambatty Greens Resort Weather: June is the first month of monsoon in Coorg . The weather is pleasant. Places To Visit In Coorg : Abbey Falls, Nisargadhama Things To Do In Coorg : Bathe elephants at camp, Click picture at Abbey Falls, fishing Average Budget: ₹9,500-14,500 per person How To Reach:

• You can reach Coorg easily from Mysore, Bangalore, and Mangalore. The nearest airport is Mangalore airport which is 160 kilometers away.
• The nearest railway station is Mysore which is 120 km away.

Tips: It gets chilly at night. So, make sure you carry woolen clothes.

Suggested Read: 11 Mysterious Temples Of India

20. Shillong – Click Picturesque Landscapes

Known for its mesmerizing waterfalls and vibrant culture, Shillong will make its way into your list of places to visit in India during June. Get ready to fall in love with nature all over again right in Shillong. Do indulge in things to do in Shillong that let you experience the culture of the place.

Ideal Duration: 3 Nights/4 Days Places to Stay: Risa Maria Service Apartment, Roilang Homestay, The Garden, Orange Homestay, Sha Ri Loum Weather: Weather of Shillong is pleasant in June and the temperature ranges from 12 degree celsius and 30 degree celsius. Places To Visit In Shillong : Umiam lake, Shillong view point Things To Do In Shillong : Boating in Umiam lake, angling at Dawki, trekking, horse riding, kayaking, river rafting. Average Budget: ₹8,500-13,500 per person How To Reach:

• The nearest airport is Shillong airport.
• The nearest railway station is Guwahati which is 104 km away. From there you can take MTC buses.

Tips: Two things Shillong is famous for are limestone caves and Orange honey.

21. Dalhousie – Opt For Paragliding

If you are looking for a quaint place to visit in India in June, then head straight to Dalhousie. It is a perfect place for an idle vacation where you can just lie back and enjoy doing nothing. After all, this is what vacations are all about. The lush greenery of this place will take your breath away.

Ideal Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days Places to Stay: Hotel Nature View, The Devdar Hotel, Hotel Mini Swiss, Hotel Orchard Green, Hotel Venice Weather: The temperature lies between 15-30 degrees. Monsoon approaches Dalhousie in mid-month. Places to visit In Dalhousie : Satdhara Falls, Khajjiar, Panchpula, St. John Church, Chamunda Devi Temple Things To Do In Dalhousie : River Rafting, Wildlife Sanctuary visit, trekking Average Budget: ₹7,000-10,000 per person How To Reach:

• Kangra is the nearest airport, 140 km away.
• Pathankot is the nearest railway station, 80 km away.

Tips: It is best if you have a car of hire a taxi to go sightseeing around.

Suggested Read: 22 Most Beautiful Waterfalls In India 

22. Almora – Explore The Heritage Town

Almora is a heritage town nestled in the Kumaon Hills of Uttarakhand. The scenic beauty of this charming little town knows no bounds. A few kilometers above Nainital, this is where you should be spending your summer vacation. The salubrious weather and scenic vistas will make it difficult for you to say goodbye to this place.

Ideal Duration: 1 Nights/2 Days Places to Stay: Binsor Oak Paradise Resort, Imperial Heights Resort, KMVN TRH The Himalayan Eco Resort, FLB Resorts Woodhouse Farm, Tag Resorts Queens Meadows Weather: The temperature in Almora in summers lies between 12 to 28 degrees Celsius. Places To Visit In Almora : Kasar Devi Temple, Golu Devta Temple, Jageshwar Temple Things To Do In Almora : Trekking, shopping, watching the sunset Average Budget: ₹8,000-13,000 per person How To Reach:

• Pantnagar is the nearest airport, 125 km away.
• Kathgodam is the nearest railway station, 81 km away.

Tips: It gets chilly at night. So, carry warm clothes with you.

23. Wayanad – Ideal South Trip Place

Wayanad in Kerala is truly nature’s abode. There are plenty of water waterfalls, historic caves, and sprawling spice plantations for you to explore. The lush greenery and fantastic weather make it a perfect places to travel in June in India and spend your summer. You will find plenty of homestays and resorts where you can enjoy a laid back vacation and immerse yourself in the tranquility.

Ideal Duration: 1 Night/2 Days Places to Stay: Kpm Tripenta Hotel, Treebo Trend Casino Hotel, Grand Plaza Suites, The Raviz Calicut, Metro Empires Weather: June is the beginning of monsoon in Wayanad. So, the temperatures are low. Places To Visit In Wayanad : Edakkal Caves, Banasura Sagar Dam, Kuruvadweep Things To Do In Wayanad : Cave Camping, Bamboo rafting, trekking Average Budget: ₹7,500-12,500 per person How To Reach:

• Kozhikode is the nearest airport, 100 km away.
• Kozhikode is the nearest railway station, 100 km away.

Tips: Trekking to Chembra Peak can physically challenging. Don’t take it easy.

Suggested Read: 23 Indian Places That Look Exactly Like International Dream Destinations

24. Spiti – Witness Natural Beauty

Which is one of the best places to visit in India in June? It is hands down Spiti. The arid valley opens its gates in the monsoon season when the rest of India observes monsoon. Take a road trip to Spiti and witness the raw and rugged beauty of nature at its best.

Ideal Duration: 5 Nights/6 Days Places to Stay: Hotel Sakya Abode, Hotel Spiti Heritage, Grand Dewachen, Spiti Valley Hotel, Hotel Deyzor Weather: During the day, the temperature lies between 15-20 degrees Celsius. The temperature drops at night. Places To Visit In Spiti : Kaza, Tabo, Kibber, Pin Valley National Park Things To do In Spiti : Drive to Chandratal and Baralacha La Average Budget: ₹8,100-10,800 per person How To Reach:

• Bhuntar is the nearest airport, 245 km away.
• Shimla is the nearest railway station:

Tips: The only way to reach Spiti is by car. Plan a road trip ahead of your air or rail journey.

25. Valley Of Flowers – Trek With Your Buddies

Valley of flowers in Uttarakhand is a paradise on earth and it only opens its gates in June till October. As soon as you enter the picturesque valley, you will observe a riot of colors and scents. There is a variegated variety of flowers blooming in the valley. Find fifty shades of green and other hues in this heaven on earth. You can explore this place with your travel buddies as it the best tourist place in India in June that you can cover.

Ideal Duration: 1 Night/2 Days Weather: June weather is a perfect time to plan a trip to Valley of Flowers Places To Visit In Valley Of Flowers: The whole valley, Hemkund Sahib, Mana, Badrinath Things to do In Valley Of Flowers: Trekking camping Average Budget: ₹8,100-10,800 per person How To Reach:

• Rishikesh is the nearest railway station, 275 km.
• Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is the nearest airport, 295 km.

Tips: More than a destination, it is a trek. So, make sure you have the stamina for it.

Suggested Read: 38 Romantic Honeymoon Places In South India 

26. Mcleodganj – Calm Your Senses

Mcleodganj is one of those places that takes you close to nature and where you can relax your mind. Nestled in the foothills of Himalaya, it is the best tourist place in India in June for nature lovers and peace-seekers. If you are looking for such a place then there cannot be a better option than Mcleodganj to go to in the month of June.

Ideal Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days Places to Stay: Sterling Resorts, Citadel Resorts, Highland Village Resort, Blossoms Village Resorts, Snow Hermitage Resort Weather: Mcleodganj enjoys pleasant weather in the month of June with temperature ranging from 22°C to 38°C. Places To Visit In Mcleodganj : Namgyal Monastery, Tsuglagkhang, Bhagsu Nag temple, Bhagsu Falls, Tibetan Museum, Church of St. John, Triund and Dal Lake. Things To Do In Mcleodganj : Go on a sightseeing tour of the city, enjoy boating in Dal Lake, go trekking, camping, and hiking on Triund, chill at Shiva Cafe and enjoy shopping in the local markets. Average Budget: ₹6,000-9,000 per person How To Reach:

• Gaggal Airport is the closest airport located about 18 kilometers from Mcleodganj.
• Pathankot Junction serves as the nearest railway head which is 90 kilometers away from Mcleodganj.
• From all major cities, one can easily reach Mcleodganj Bus Terminal by road.

Tips : Do opt for meditation in one of the monasteries to calm your soul.

27. Mussoorie – The Queen Of Hills

The Queen of the hill stations cannot be left behind if we are talking about top places to visit in June in India. To escape the heat of the sun, many people resort to this place as it is a perfect nature escape and offers moderate temperature for sightseeing. The places to visit in Mussoorie add to the charm no one can afford to miss.

Ideal Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days Places to Stay: Fortune Resort Grace, Grand Imperial Resort, Bulaakh Resort, Wildflower Cottage, Sterling Mussoorie Weather: Mussoorie enjoys pleasant weather in the month of June with temperature ranging from 15 to 26 degrees Celsius. Places To Visit In Mussoorie : Nag Tibba, Kempty Falls, Company Garden, and Mall Road. Things To Do In Mussoorie : Boating, shopping, trekking, cable car ride, and more. Average Budget: ₹7,500-11,000 per person How To Reach:

• Reach Mussoorie by taking a train till Dehradun Railway Station from where you can hire a taxi to reach Mussoorie.

Tips: Opt for cable car ride while going to Kempty Falls and come back by foot while exploring the market.

Suggested Read: 10 Best Restaurants In Mussoorie 

28. Tawang – Ideal For Adventure-Junkies

Looking for cold places to visit in June in India? Well, there cannot be a better destination than Tawang which is a perfect destination for adventure seekers. From nature walking and skiing to trekking, there are several activities to indulge in Tawang. It is a perfect place to explore with your travel buddies in the month of June if you are looking for a place to beat the heat in the plains.

Ideal Duration: 1 Night/2 Days Places to Stay: Stay Inn Tawang, Hospitality Inn Tawang, Dolma Khangsar Home Stay, J.C Homestay, Dondrub Homestay Weather: Tawang enjoys a cool climate with the temperature ranging from 3°C to 18°C. Places To Visit In Tawang : Tawang Monastery, Bap Teng Kang, Tawang War Memorial, Sela Pass, Gorichen Peak, and Madhuri Lake. Things To Do In Tawang : Skiing in Pankang Teng Tso Lake, go for a day tour to Bum La Pass, and opt for bird-watching at Bhajagang lake. Average Budget: ₹7,500-10,500 per person How To Reach:

• Tezpur Airport in Assam is the nearest location which is 143 kilometers away from Tawang.
• Tezpur is also the nearest railway head to Tawang.
• One can also take reliable bus services from Tezpur and Bomdila.

Tips: Explore the neighborhood areas on foot in the evening.

29. Lansdowne – Perfect Escape From Citylife

There is no doubt in the fact that Lansdowne is the best hill station to visit in June in India with your friends or family. If you are looking for a tranquil getaway in Uttarakhand then Lansdowne is the perfect place to be. The place is frequented by many travelers and it gives some unforgettable experiences too.

Ideal Duration: 1 Night/2 Days Places to Stay: Jadli Hotel, Hotel Corbett Treff, Hotel Indira Nikunj, 60s Green Hills Hotel, La Casa Weather: Lansdowne experiences amazing weather in the month of June with temperature fluctuating between 15°C to 30°C. Places To Visit In Lansdowne : Tip n Top, St. Mary’s Church, Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple, War memorial, Darwan Singh Museum and Bhulla Lake. Things To Do In Lansdowne : Go camping, enjoy boating in Bhulla Lake, experience trekking to Snow Viewpoint, hike to Tip n Top, indulge in some nature walking throughout Lansdowne and visit Kalagarh Tiger Reserve. Average Budget: ₹7,000-12,000 per person How To Reach:

• Dehradun airport is the nearest airstrip which is 152 kilometers away.
• Kotdwar is the nearest railway station located at a distance of 41 kilometers from Lansdowne.
• By road, Lansdowne is just 6 hours away from New Delhi.

Suggested Read: Guhantara Resort Bangalore

30. Dehradun – Nature Lovers’ Delight

Dehradun is one place that has the capability to make people go wow with its beauty as well as serenity. You can plan your vacation in the summer months as Dehradun is counted among the best places to visit in June in India . From terrific cafes and shopping markets to calm temples, the place has a lot to offer to tourists. Moreover, the weather in June in Dehradun is just perfect for sightseeing and indulging in activities that this city has to offer.

Ideal Duration: 1 Night/2 Days Places to Stay: Royal Orchid Fort Resort, Saiva Hill Resort, Bulaakh Resort, The Competent Palace, The Solitaire Weather: The temperature hovers near 23 degrees Celsius which is perfect for sightseeing. Places To Visit In Dehradun : Mindrolling Monastery, Zonal Anthropological Museum, Malsi Deer Park, Paltan Bazaar Things To Do In Dehradun : Sightseeing, Shopping, Explore the cafes Average Budget: ₹8,000-13,000 per person How To Reach:

• Take a train till Dehradun railway station
• Board a flight till Jolly Grant Airport.
• Another way to reach Dehradun is by opting for a road trip which you can experience by driving a car or by taking the bus.

31. Munnar – Hauntingly Beautiful

We have a question! Do you like paintings? Okay, let’s be more precise! Do you like paintings that are all about nature? We ask because if you do we have Munnar for you! One of the best places to visit in June in India , Munnar is a motley canvas of emerald-green tea plantations, stunning waterfalls and undulating paths. It looks straight out of a dream and we bet you won’t regret visiting it!

Ideal Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days Places to Stay: Talayar Valley Bungalow, Mountain Hut Resorts, Veetee Midtown, Spoony Residency, Matha Regency Weather: The temperature hovers near 23 degrees Celsius which is perfect for sightseeing. Places To Visit In Munnar : Echo Point, Kundala Lake, Anamudi Peak and Elephant Lake Things To Do In Munnar : Sightseeing, tea estate tours, camping and trekking, mountain biking. Average Budget: ₹9,500-15,000 per person How To Reach:

• The closest railway station is in Aluva at a distance of 10 kilometers.
• The closest airport is in Cochin which is 110 km away.
• Another way to reach Munnar is by opting for a road trip which you can experience by driving a car or by taking the bus.

Suggested Read: 30 Spellbinding Places To Visit In July In India 

32. Lavasa – Add Extra To Your Ordinary

Owned by the Hindustan construction company and still under construction yet one of the most beautiful places in India to visit in June , Lavasa is a favourite among tourists and we completely understand why! Be it scenic landscapes or gorgeous places to visit, exquisite hotels or exciting theme parks, Lavasa has got something for everyone and will make your trip totally worth it!

Ideal Duration: 1 Day Places to Stay: Atmantan Wellness Resort, Residency Lake Resort & Spa, Green Gate Resort, Surya Shibir Resort, Jalsrushti Island Resort Weather: The temperature hovers near 30 degrees Celsius which is perfect for sightseeing. Places To Visit In Lavasa : Tikona Fort, Varasgaon Dam, Ghangad Fort, Devkund Waterfall. Things To Do In Lavasa : Sightseeing, tea estate tours, camping and trekking, mountain biking. Average Budget: ₹9,500-14,000 per person How To Reach:

• The closest railway station is in Lonavala at a distance of 29 kilometers.
• The closest airport is in Pune which is 68 km away.
• Another way to reach Lavasa is by opting for a road trip which you can experience by driving a car or by taking the bus. The views along the road are scenic and add to the experience.

33. Pune – Taking Picturesque To A New High

The list of the best places to visit in June in India won’t be complete if we didn’t mention Pune. One of the most beautiful cities of India, Pune appeals to everyone, regardless of the age. A union of many cultures and ideas this city keeps evolving. From theme parks to night clubs, and gardens to palaces, Pune has it all and will charm its way into your heart before you will know it.

Ideal Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days Places to Stay: Sofi Cottage, Lake View Cottages, J V cottages, Kasturi Cottage, Malhar Machi Resort Weather: The temperature hovers near 31 degrees Celsius which is perfect for sightseeing. Places To Visit In Pune : Hong Kong Lane, Aga Khan Palace, Seven Wonders Dream Park, Pashan Lake. Things to do In Pune : Sightseeing, adventure activities, trying local cuisine Average Budget: ₹9,500-15,000 per person How To Reach:

• The Pune International Airp ort is the main serving airport for Pune.
• The Pune Junction Railway Station is the main railway station in Pune.
• Another way to reach Pune is by taking a road trip which you can experience by driving a car or by taking the bus. The views along the road are scenic and add to the experience.

Suggested Read: 49 Beautiful Places To Visit In North India 

34. Ooty – Incredibly Spectacular

Can the queen of hill stations and one of the most beautiful hill stations of South India be missed out on while we talk about the places in India to visit in June? We too didn’t think so! Nestled in the Nilgiri hills in Tamil Nadu this gorgeous hill station is all things beautiful and has a wide array of options to choose from. Vast meadows, spectacular waterfalls, lush green tea plantations, pristine lakes, name it and you have it!

Ideal Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days Places to Stay: Gateway Coonoor, The Clive and Curzon, Le Méridien Coimbatore, Orchid Square Boutique Hotel, Misty Meadows Coonoor Weather: The temperature hovers near 18 degrees Celsius which is perfect for sightseeing. Places To Visit In Ooty : Botanical Garden, St. Stephen’s Church, Pykara Lake, Doddabetta Peak. Things To Do In Ooty : Sightseeing, camping, trying local cuisine, trekking Average Budget: ₹8,000-13,000 per person How To Reach:

• The closest railway station is in Mettupalayam at a distance of 40 kilometers.
• The closest airport is in Coimbatore which is 88 km away.
• Another way to reach Ooty is by opting for a road trip which you can experience by driving a car or by taking the bus. The views along the road are scenic and add to the experience.

35. Mizoram – For Its Uniqueness

If we talk about offbeat places in India to visit in June then perhaps Mizoram would top the list and why not! It is one of the untouched, pristine and unexplored destinations of India and is so much different than all the other well known destinations. Be it the food, the culture, the ethnicity or anything else, Mizoram does believe in being different and keeping it that way! Honestly, if you were looking for places that offers a unique experience then this is it. This offbeat destination is undoubtedly the best place to visit in June in India.

Ideal Duration: 4 Nights/5 Days Weather: The temperature hovers near 18 degrees Celsius which is perfect for sightseeing. Places To Visit In Mizoram : Aizawl, Mamit, Reiek, Vantawng Waterfalls. Things To Do In Mizoram : Sightseeing, camping, trying local cuisine, trekking Average Budget: ₹9,000-14,000 per person How To Reach:

• The nearest railway station is in Silchar which is at a distance of 290 kilometers.
• Lengpui Airport in Aizawl is the main serving airport for Mizoram.
• Another way to reach Mizoram is by opting for a road trip which you can experience by driving a car or by taking the bus. The views along the road are scenic and add to the experience.

Suggested Read: 20 Tranquil Hill Stations In Kerala 

36. Yercaud – For Hardcore Mountain Lovers

Wondering where to go in June in India? Well, why don’t you try Yercaud! This south Indian hill station in Tamil Nadu has so much to offer that you will be pleasantly surprised and you might tire out but would never be bored. If you are one of those who love being close to nature and scenic landscapes are your weakness then head for Yercaud this summer and don’t let summer get the better of you! From lakes to hills and roads less traveled, there is no dearth of places to visit in Yercaud . This place has everything that offers the countryside as an experience.

Ideal Duration: 1 Night/2 Days Places to Stay: Regency Sameera Vellore By GRT Hotels, Benzz Park, Grand Estancia, Radisson Salem, CJ Pallazio Weather: The temperature hovers near 22 degrees Celsius which is perfect for sightseeing. Places To Visit In Yercaud : The Burma Bucket , The Sweet Bear Cave, Vantawng Waterfalls. Things To Do In Yercaud : Sightseeing, camping, trying local cuisine, trekking Average Budget: ₹8,000-13,000 per person How To Reach:

• The nearest railway station is the Salem Junction which is at a distance of 33 kilometers.
• Salem Airport is the nearest airport to yercaud and is 48 kilometers away.
• Another way to reach Yercaud is by opting for a road trip which you can experience by driving a car or by taking the bus. The views along the road are scenic and add to the experience.

37. Chakrata – For An Offbeat Experience

It won’t be wrong to say that when it comes to opting for hill stations North India spoils us with choices. From the heavenly Kasmir valley to the stunning Himachal and not to forget the spectacular Uttarakhand, there is so much! However, most of these destinations have been explored and exploited so, why not pick offbeat this time? Visit Chakrata and you won’t be disappointed! Tucked away in the beautiful Himalayan Range this quaint little hill station is a cantonment town and has many amazing places to explore!

Ideal Duration: 1 Day Places to Stay: Mosaic Hotel Mussoorie, Hotel Mall Palace, Fortune Resort Grace, Hotel Goldstone Comfort, Hotel Skyking Weather: The temperature hovers near 27 degrees Celsius which is perfect for sightseeing. Places To Visit In Chakrata: Tiger Falls, Chilmiri Neck, Kimona Falls, Yamuna Adventure Park Things To Do In Chakrata : Sightseeing, camping, river rafting, birdwatching, trekking Average Budget: ₹6,000-11,000 per person How To Reach:

• The nearest railway station is in Dehradun and is 88 kilometers away.
• The nearest airport is in Dehradun (Jolly Grant Airport) 118 kilometers.
• Another way to reach Chakrata is by opting for a road trip which you can experience by driving a car or by taking the bus. The views along the road are scenic and add to the experience.

Suggested Read: 20 Places To Visit In Kerala In December

38. Nainital – Be In Touch With Nature

Still unsure about where to go in June in India? Well, Nainital says try me! With green hills, strolling streets, ancient cottages and cutesy cafes, Nainital is perfect! The city’s charm is something that you can’t escape and before you know you would be in love with it. From temples to a gorgeous lake, heritage buildings to a very exciting mall road and a lot more, Nainital is a stunner and yes, to some it might sound like a cliche but you will get the very best here!

Ideal Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days Places to Stay: The Naini Retreat, Hotel Villa Astoria, Manu Maharani Regency, The Pavilion Hotel Weather: The temperature hovers near 18 degrees Celsius which is perfect for sightseeing. Places To Visit In Nainital : Tiger Hill, Batasia Loop, Peace Pagoda, Rock Garden Things To Do In Nainital : Sightseeing, trekking, river rafting, toy train ride Average Budget: ₹7,500-10,500 per person How To Reach:

• The nearest railway station is the Kathgodam Railway Station which is 36 kilometers away.
• The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport (which is 70 kilometers away.
• Another way to reach Nainital is by opting for a road trip which you can experience by driving a car or by taking the bus. The views along the road are scenic and add to the experience.

39. Darjeeling- Queen Of The Hills

The destination which has been featured in countless movies, the place which is famous since the time India was not even independent and the ‘Queen of Hills’, Darjeeling is happening. It was once known as the summer resort for the British elite and even today one can see the colonial impact. The ‘toy train’ ride is very fascinating and offers scenic views. the many tourist attractions and activities to try enhance the experience.

Ideal Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days Places to Stay: Rose Allita Hotels And Resorts, Aranya Jungle Resorts, Mayfair Himalayan Spa Resort, Martam Village Resort, Resort Green Heaven Weather: The temperature hovers near 24 degrees Celsius which is perfect for sightseeing. Places To Visit In Darjeeling : Tiger Falls, Chilmiri Neck, Kimona Falls, Yamuna Adventure Park Things To Do In Darjeeling : Sightseeing, camping, river rafting, birdwatching, trekking Average Budget: ₹8,500-13,500 per person How To Reach:

• The closest railway station is in New Jalpaiguri (Siliguri) at a distance of 62 kilometers.
• The closest airport is in Bagdogra which is 95 km away.
• Another way to reach Darjeeling is by opting for a road trip which you can experience by driving a car or by taking the bus. The views along the road are scenic and add to the experience.

Suggested Read: 41 Perfect Destinations To Spend Your Summer Holidays In India

40. Kasauli – A Revitalizing Retreat

One of the fun places to visit in India in June and actually one of the trendiest places to be at in the country, Kasauli is a hamlet town that offers its visitors some respite from the heat that has clouded the country in the month of June. This is one of the hill stations lying in close proximity to Chandigarh and is stunning. The town does not have any up scale markets or many happening attractions to boast off but we guess that is the beauty of this quaint little town.

Ideal Duration: 1 Night/2 Days Places to Stay: Radisson Blu Hotel, Hotel Mountview, Hotel Honeymoon Inn, Hotel Sapphire, Hotel President Weather: The temperature hovers near 22 degrees Celsius which is perfect for sightseeing. Places To Visit In Kasauli : Christ Church, Gurkha Fort, Kasauli Tibetan Market Things To Do In Kasauli : Nature walk, trekking, nature photography Average Budget: ₹6,500-11,500 per person How To Reach:

• The nearest railway station is in Kalka and is 24 kilometers away from Kasauli.
• The closest airport is Chandigarh Airport at a distance of 62 kilometers away.
• Another way to reach Kasauli is by opting for a road trip where you can witness scenic views

41. Ponmudi – A Quaint Hill Town

Image Credit

Ajay for Wikimedia The lush greenery, rolling hills, gushing waterfall and vibrant birds perfectly define Ponmudi. This quaint little town is located in Trivandrum, Kerala. It is a great place for trekking and mountain climbing. The other highlight of the place include beautiful spice plantation and tea estates. All these things makes it a popular destination for those visiting Kerala.

Ideal Duration: 1 Day Weather: The temperature hovers near 25 degrees Celsius which is perfect for sightseeing. Places To Visit In Ponmudi: Golden Valley, Mini Zoo, Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary Things To Do In Ponmudi: Trekking, nature photography and long leisure walk Average Budget: ₹8,000-12,000 per person How To Reach:

• The nearest railway station is Thiruvananthapuram Central Railway Station and is 61 kilometres away from Ponmudi
• The closest airport is the Thiruvananthapuram International Airport at a distance of 67 kilometers away.
• Another way to reach Ponmudi is by opting for a road trip where you can witness scenic views and is probably the best way to reach this quaint town

Further Read: 55 Hill Stations Near Delhi 

Did these places to visit in India in June make you jump in happiness? Did they make you wish you were here and not lazying around at home or in front of your laptop? Excited much? Then, plan your trip to India with TravelTriangle and customize your summer vacation plan as you want it to be. Also, don’t forget to share your experiences with us at [email protected]. Cheers!

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Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In June In India

Which is the cheapest place to fly June in India?

Mahabaleshwar is indeed a beautiful hill station near Maharashtra which is the cheapest place for you in the month of June. You can travel to Mumbi and Punekar which are best for quick weekend getaways. It will just take 3 to 4 hours to travel from Pune to Mahabaleshwar.

What are some of the adventurous things to do in India in June?

Surfing in Goa, motorbiking in the Himalayas, Champakulam Moolam boat race in Kerala and trekking in Karnataka are some of the popular things to enjoy in India during June.

Which are the best places to visit in India in June near Delhi?

Some of the best places to visit in June near Delhi for a refreshing summer holiday experience are Manali, Lansdowne, Rishikesh, Nainital, Shimla, and Ranikhet.

Which are the top places to visit in India in June with friends?

Places like Rishikesh, Chakrata, Andaman, Kasol, Tirthan Valley, Goa, and Ladakh are the best destinations in India for planning a trip with your friends in June.

Why is “Valley of Flowers” famous during the summer in India?

“Valley of Flowers” is a paradise on earth in the state of Uttarakhand. During the summer season, the valley appears with a riot of colours and blooms with a variety of flowers.

How to reach Pondicherry?

If you are visiting by air, Pondicherry Airport in Pondicherry is easily connected to Delhi, Bangalore, and Mumbai. There are several bus options from Chennai, Coimbatore, and Bangalore. The nearest railway station is Villupuram which is 35 km away from the town.

What should I wear before visiting Shimla in June?

Usually, Shimla gets much lower in temperature in the winter season. But, if you are visiting in the summer season, no need to worry. You can simply put on some light clothes, a hoodie and some warm clothes for the night.

What is the average temperature in Goa in June?

Goa has a tropical climate all year round. It always has a high temperature. Thus, 22 degrees Celsius is the average temperature of Goa. The highest temperature is around 30 degrees Celsius whereas the lowest is 25 degrees Celsius.

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Tourism Week and World Tourism Day Celebrations

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To mark the celebration of World Tourism day, a week long events relating to tourism were organized by the Department of Tourism and Travel Management, Central University of Jammu, India.The event was celebrated under the theme "Tourism and Community Development".

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New Delhi [India], April 27 (ANI): India has a unique opportunity to lead the way in eco-tourism, setting itself apart from regions like Europe that have faced the consequences of mass tourism. With vast potential largely untapped, India’s tourism sector stands poised for growth, particularly through eco-tourism initiatives.

The industry experts emphasized the urgent need for sustainable tourism in India amid the global shift towards sustainability in travel, spurred by concerns over carbon footprint, water consumption, and pollution.

“We have a unique advantage that our sites and destinations have not been destroyed or distorted by mass tourism the way we see in some places in Europe and other parts of the world. Our travel has to have minimal or zero carbon footprint, water consumption has to be within manageable limits,” said Ram Pratap Singh, eco-tourism entrepreneur, to ANI.

He said, “The chemicals and pollutants that are generated by the travel and tourism industry, the hotel industry, have to be controlled and converted into green affluence. And then the impact on the community, the people, it has to generate wealth and well-being”

The Ministry of Tourism has recognized the potential of sustainable tourism and formulated a ‘National Strategy for Sustainable Tourism’ to mainstream sustainability in the sector. Initiatives like the “Travel for LiFE” campaign aims to encourage responsible behaviour among domestic tourists, promoting mindful resource consumption while traveling.

Recent tourism data indicates a positive trend for India. In December 2023, over 10.7 lakh foreign tourists visited India, contributing a significant Rs 24,707 crore to the country’s foreign exchange. However, the number of foreign tourist visits has declined in recent years, from 31.41 million in 2019 to 8.59 million in 2022, due to changing travel behaviours post-pandemic.

Despite this decline, eco-tourism presents an opportunity to attract foreign tourists back to India by offering sustainable travel experiences. With its pristine sites and destinations relatively untouched by mass tourism, India is well-positioned to capitalize on the global trend towards sustainable tourism.

According to industry experts, some of the famous Eco- tourism destinations in India are Sikkim -India’s first fully organic state, Mawlynnong (Meghalaya)- one of the cleanest villages in Asia, Majuli in Assam, Matheran in Maharashtra and Thenmala (Kerala)- India’s first ever eco-tourism destination.

As discussions on climate sustainability continue on the global stage, India stands at a crucial juncture to embrace sustainability in tourism. By seizing this opportunity, India can emerge as a leader in sustainable tourism, preserving its natural and cultural resources for future generations while fostering economic growth and community well-being. (ANI)

This report is auto-generated from ANI news service. ThePrint holds no responsibility for its content.

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Scotland's Humza Yousaf resigns as country's leader

Yousaf quit as head of the pro-independence scottish national party (snp) after a week of chaos triggered by his scrapping of a coalition agreement with scotland's greens. he then failed to secure enough support to survive votes of no confidence against him expected later this week..

Scotland's leader Humza Yousaf resigned on Monday, further opening the door to the UK opposition Labour Party to regain ground in its former Scottish heartlands in a national election expected later this year. Yousaf quit as head of the pro-independence Scottish National Party (SNP) after a week of chaos triggered by his scrapping of a coalition agreement with Scotland's Greens.

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The Scottish parliament now has 28 days to choose a new first minister before an election is forced, with former SNP leader John Swinney and Yousaf's former leadership rival Kate Forbes seen as possible successors. If the SNP is unable to find a new leader to command support in parliament, a Scottish election will be held.

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