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Best Places for a Weekend Trip

Weekend Getaways - Explore relaxing places and spend some quality time on your weekend getaway. Check out top national parks, temples, witnessing the royalness of an old palace, and more.

Rajasthan's Magnificent Historical Town

Neemrana will fascinate you with its rich heritage. You will love sightseeing, adventure activities, and the Navratri and Diwali celebrations. Additionally, you can try out various adventure activities at Neemrana.

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2 Lonavala & Khandala

Quaint Hill Stations in Maharashtra

Soak in the charming vistas of the tall mountains at Lonavala. You will love outdoor activities like trekking & hiking. Additionally, the serene environs of Lonavala will calm your mind.

The capital and the largest city of Rajasthan

Soak in the ancient tales and heritage of Jaipur. You will love the beautiful forts, palaces and gardens. You can also spot wildlife at Jaipur.

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4 Shantiniketan

Rabindranath Tagore's Abode in West Bengal

Get set for thrilling wildlife encounters at Shantiniketan. You can expect scorching temperatures. You can also admire the heritage landmarks at Shantiniketan.

The Land of Palaces

As the cradle of Indian culture and heritage for many centuries, Gwalior is a timeless treasure of art and music. The cityscape is adorned with historical monuments and a hilltop fort that are souvenirs of the dynasties that ruled here.

Colonial-Era Retreat in Himachal Pradesh

Prepare to be wooed by the mesmerizing mountains of Kasauli. You can expect chilly but enjoyable weather. Kasauli is also an ideal destination for a relaxing break.

7 Pondicherry

Bewitching French City

If food is your fetish, then a journey to Puducherry is a must! You can expect the city is at its hottest during this time. You can also explore the beautiful beaches of Puducherry.

Karnataka's Erstwhile Hunting Ground

Once a famous hunting ground under the British raj, Kabini boasts a diverse flora and fauna. Nagarhole National Park is the star attraction here, providing refuge to many endangered species.

Open Air Museum in Karnataka

The renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site and the once-magnificent capital of the Vijayanagara Empire; Hampi attracts backpackers and pilgrims in equal numbers due to its intriguing ruins of forts and temples.

Scenic Temple Town in Karnataka

Seek solace with a pilgrimage to Gokarna. You can expect extremely hot and humid weather. Don't forget to spend some time at the beaches of Gokarna.

Home to Palm-Fringed Beaches

Come and fall in love with the beach vibe of Diu. You can expect high temperatures with cool sea breeze. Additionally, the serene environs of Diu will calm your mind.

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Spend your weekends travelling, exploring & making a million memories.

We all want to go on many trips, but the problem is, we don't get enough holidays! Do we? So, why not utilise your weekend and do something exciting? Weekend getaway trips are best when you're spending time not only relaxing but also doing something you love, especially with your loved ones. India, in this sense, has so much to offer and see! Go trekking at Darjeeling or rafting at Rishikesh. Scuba diving and paragliding can be enjoyed at Andaman and Nicobar islands. Explore the majestic beauty and opulence of Indian heritage at Jodhpur or Udaipur. Escaping into the wild at a national park or zoological garden is also exciting. Spend time relaxing at a retreat at Pondicherry. For all pilgrimage enthusiasts, Katra, Puri or Kerala are great options. If you enjoy the beach, then planning for Goa or Kanyakumari is also ideal. Or if going on a food trip across Kolkata or Delhi to indulge in exotic cuisines is your thing, then go ahead! There's something that you can always find and you'll be amazed to see how you enjoy these short trips as they bring more colour and vibrancy in your everyday busy life! Why wait? Plan your next weekend getaway right now!

What Makes Weekend getaways the Best Relaxation Recipe?

Long vacations may be the coveted break you are wishing to have but cannot make due to lack of time. Worry not, since weekend getaways can come to aid. Weekend destinations are easy to arrange and plan and you will not be disappointed. Weekend travel destinations are better for a digital detox, destress, optimise time and help you get creative. Weekend getaways are easier on the pocket while being socially satisfying. A little time away from the daily grind can reconnect you to family and friends and improve your mood. The mental clarity in short breaks helps you jump back to work. Since they are cost-effective, they are affordable. Search for ‘weekend destinations near me’ and plan a quick outing.

Best Weekend getaways in Northern India

Neemrana, rajasthan.

A two-and-a-half-hour drive from New Delhi takes you to Neemrana while a three-hour bus ride will be the cheapest. Neemrana turns out to be one of the quick and less-crowded weekend getaways from Delhi . This historical town has not turned very commercial and manages to retain its old-world charm including camel rides, around the town. The Neemrana Fort-Palace, which was built by the Rajput Chauhans, is the main attraction along with the Neemrana Baori, a sample among many such stepwells. All these make Neemrana ideal among brief weekend getaways .

Kasauli, Himachal Pradesh

Want to feel the nippy air on your skin and smell pines and oaks? Choose Kasauli as one of your swift weekend getaways . One of the favoured weekend destinations of the British, the colonial town is quaint and lovely. The lush greenery, the fleecy-white Himalayan peaks demand weekend activities like nature walks, bird watching and treks. Do visit Sunrise Point and Sunset Point along with the many places of worship that the town houses – the Gurudwara Sri Guru Nanakji, the Christ Church, the Baba Balak Nath Temple and the Sanjeevni Hanuman Temple.

Agra, Uttar Pradesh

If you look for ‘ weekend getaways near me’ while in Delhi, Agra will probably be among the top few suggested destinations. The UNESCO-certified World Heritage Site of Taj Mahal is a primary attraction. Be prepared to be astounded by the architecture of Fatehpur Sikri Fort and other old buildings and monuments. It is one of the easy weekend getaways that forms part of the Golden Triangle with Delhi and Jaipur . Do shop for the unique delicious sweet, named Petha and exquisitely carved marble artefacts to take home as souvenirs.

Best Weekend getaways in Western India

This small Indian state has been at the forefront of both weekend getaways and long vacations for a long time. If you are in the western part of India or Mumbai and enquire about ‘places to visit near me’, Goa is most likely to crop up as the prime destination. The series of beaches offering calm waves to surfing foams and the plethora of weekend activities make Goa a great holiday location. Add to that delectable food, live music and a vibrant nightlife and you have a perfect weekend destination to enjoy.

Lonavala & Khandala, Maharashtra

These close together hill stations are great for weekend getaways all year-round. Popular attractions of Khandala are Kune waterfalls, Lohagad Fort, Shooting Point and Pawana Lake. The tourist spots in Lonavala are Carla Caves, Korigad Fort, Tiger Point and Lion Point. The forts are ideal for trekking and the lakes are great family picnic spots. These weekend getaways from Mumbai have pleasant weather and serene, unpolluted locales to enjoy as a backpacker or big family outings.

Daman & Diu

These Union Territories are picturesque weekend getaways in the western part of India. Almost three-and-a-half-hour away from the bustling city of Mumbai, are these peaceful weekend travel destinations to rest and rejuvenate. You can easily go to Daman by road while a flight is most convenient for Diu. Visit the Diu Fort, Naida caves, St, Paul Church and Church of St. Francis of Assisi while in Diu. Relax on the Ghogla beach and Nagao beach which are clean and less crowded. In Daman, visit the Old Fort, St. Jerome Fort, Jain Temple and the Devaka beach.

Best Weekend getaways in Southern India

Hampi, karnataka.

If you are looking for weekend getaways from Bangalore , don’t miss the opportunity to visit Hampi. The road route from Bangalore will take between 5-7 hours to reach Hampi. This UNESCO-certified World Heritage Site offers historical, architectural and religious wonders to explore. Once the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire, the ruins and remains of the city are spectacular. The location has numerous temples to visit and admire such as Virupaksha Temple, Vittala Temple, Pittabhirama Temple and Sasivekalu Ganesha Temple. Musical pillars and Hampi Bazaar are great attractions here.

Munnar, Kerala

Searching for weekend getaways near Cochin ? Visit the pretty, lush hill station of Munnar about 3-4 hours away from the city. This charming, romantic place has hills, lakes and waterfalls. The emerald-green meadows are picnic-friendly places while the structured rows of tea, coffee and spice plantations are picture-perfect. You may also take a pitstop at Rajamala 15 km away, which is home to Nilgiri tahr, a rare mountain goat. The cool climate and eye-pleasing scenery make this retreat a gem among weekend getaways .

Pondicherry

This Union Territory is one of the very alluring weekend getaways near Chennai. An almost 3-hour road route south of Chennai will take you to the beach city of Pondicherry. Once, a French colony, Pondicherry retains the artistic vibe that the French created long ago. The clean tree-lined roads, colourful colonial villas, the open breezy promenade and the clean beaches – there is a lot to love about Pondicherry. Weekend getaways like Pondicherry need multiple trips to appreciate them completely.

Best Weekend getaways in Eastern India

Shantiniketan, west bengal.

This quaint town owes its importance to Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore for his Vishwa Bharati University. This charming town has multiple buildings that belong to the University and are worth visiting – Rabindra Bhavan, Cheena Bhavan, Kala Bhavan and Singha Sadan. You may also want to visit Amar Kutir, the cottage of revolutionary Sushen Mukherjee, and Khoai Sonajhuri Forest. Shantiniketan is one of the few weekend getaways that bring you the feel of a traditional retreat.

Mandarmani, West Bengal

A five-hour ride takes you to one of the most refreshing weekend getaways from Kolkata , Mandarmani. The shore which is close to the Mandarmani village is unspoilt and teeming with marine life. The red crabs crawling on the beach are a big catch as are other fish often served fresh as seafood. Mandarmani has the longest motorable beach in eastern India allowing you to take a high-speed ride with the sea breeze against your face. The nearest railway station is Digha which is another beach place giving you more options for weekend getaways .

Chilka, Odisha

This quiet unusual of all weekend getaways is the largest lagoon in the country. The place has a UNESCO certification and commercial significance. Your weekend trip would include boating, fishing, wildlife and bird watching. There are a few temples to visit nearby such as the Baliharachandi Temple and the Kalijai Temple. The Chilka Wildlife Sanctuary is home to golden jackals, blackbuck, limbless lizard and dolphins among others.

When you start searching for ‘weekend destinations near me’, you have a wide choice, whichever part of India you reside in. With benefits ranging from self-improvement to self-realisation and from mental to physical health, why not consider weekend getaways ? Let your search engine answer your query on ‘ weekend getaways near me ’ while you pack a duffel bag or knapsack for that short trip.

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Top 20 Short Trip Destinations in India for Your Weekend Getaways

Urban lifestyle is always busy and running after the targets and tasks to be completed. If you wanna take a break from all this mess, you just need a perfectly planned weekend. Because we have the weekends to exhaust our stress from day-to-day hectic lifestyles. So what’s late? Let’s plan some of the best weekend trips to explore in India from all corners. Here you can catch the best weekend gateways of India for short trips with your family or friends.

Table of Contents

Weekend Getaways in the Northern Region:

The capital city of Rajasthan, Jaipur is a rich heritage and monumental-centred tourist attraction. Many historic constructions and monuments built in the era of Rajputs stand as iconic attractions to witness today. To explore the heritage side of North India , Jaipur is the right choice to pick.

Tourist spots: City Palace , Hawa Mahal, Amber or Amer Fort , Jantar Mantar, Nahargarh Fort, Jaigarh Fort , and Alber Hall Museum. Jaipur markets are the best places to find many exotic artifacts and handicrafts of Rajasthani.

• 2 Nights 3 Days Jaipur Travel
• 3 Days Jaipur, Pushkar, Ajmer Tour
• 4 Days Jaipur & Agra Trip
• Jaipur Jaisalmer Bikaner Trip
• Delhi Agra Jaipur Travel 4 Days
• 4 Days Delhi & Jaipur Trip

2. Rishikesh:

The Yoga Capital of the World, Rishikesh is a serene and spiritual destination located at the foothills of the Himalayas. Being located on the banks of the river Ganges, this place is set for fantastic adventurous activities to dwell on. Its serene temples, ashrams, and meditation centers make the place resonate with spirituality and serenity.

Tourist spots: Ghats of river Ganga, Lakshman Jhula, Ram Jhula, Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, Bharat Mandir, Triveni Ghat, Parmarth Niketan, Beatles Ashram, etc.

• 2 Days Rishikesh & Haridwar Tour
• Haridwar Rishikesh Trip 2 Days
• 3 Days Haridwar & Rishikesh Travel
• 4 Days Rishikesh Haridwar Itinerary

Shimla is a beautiful and chilling hill station located in the northwestern range of the Himalayas. The hill station looks wonderful with its colonial structures and beautiful tourist attractions. Especially, its Mall Road and Ridge are the best places to explore the beauty of Shimla.

Tourist spots: Jakhoo Temple , Viceregal Lodge, Botanical Gardens, Summer Hill, and Mall Road for shopping and tourist gatherings. Close to Shimla, Kufri is the best place for winter sports.

• 3 Nights 4 Days Shimla Tour
• Shimla Manali Dharamshala Travel
• 8 Days Shimla Manali Trip
• 4 Days Shimla Kufri Kasauli Tour
• Delhi Agra Jaipur Shimla Travel

4. Jim Corbett National Park:

Jim Corbett is India’s one of the oldest and most prominent national parks located in Uttarakhand . The national park is spread across 520 sq km and is home to rich biodiversity. Many endangered species of animals and birds are getting shelter in this national park. Important wildlife to spot here are the Bengal Tiger, Leopard, Indian Elephant, and nearly 600 species of birds.

Tourist spots: Corbett Museum and Dhikala Zone for staying options and rich forests and wildlife.

• 3 Days Jim Corbett Tour
• 4 Days Jim Corbett & Nainital Trip
• 2 Days Dhikala Package
• 3 Days Jim Corbett Safari Trip

Home to one of the seven wonders of the world, Agra is all about the beauty of love and Mughal architecture. From the iconic Taj Mahal to many historic wonders of Agra, are just mind-blowing and breathtaking to experience. To explore the intricate and immense architectural beauty of the Mughals, Agra is one of the best places to visit.

Tourist spots: Taj Mahal, Agra Fort , Fatehpur Sikri, Mehtab Bagh , Mughal Heritage Walk, Itmad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb, Chini-ka-Rauza.

• Same Day Agra Trip by Car
• Agra Same Day Taj Mahal Tour
• 4 Days Delhi Agra Jaipur Travel
• 6 Days Delhi Agra Jaipur Trip
• 3 Nights 4 Days Agra Jaipur Tour

Weekend Getaways in the Southern Region:

Karnataka’s famous hill station, Coorg is a wonderful and splendid destination to live in nature for a while. The hill stationflooded with lush green coffee plantations, hills, picturesque landscapes, waterfalls, and thick forests is like a paradise for nature lovers. For wildlife lovers, numerous sanctuaries and national parks stand as major attractions to visit.

Tourist spots: Madikeri town, Abbey Falls, Talakaveri Viewpoint and Temple, Namdroling Monastery, Raja’s Seat, Nagarhole National Park, Pushpagiriand Brahmagiri, Wildlife Sanctuaries.

Coorg Package: 3 Nights 4 Days Coorg and Mysore Travel Itinerary

Familiar with the “Kashmir of South India”, Munnar is a beautiful hill station of Kerala located in the Western Ghats. The pristine hill station filled with numerous hill points, lush green forests, tea plantations, and wildlife attractions justifies its tag as the Kashmir of the South. Moreover, its serene and cool atmosphere will take you to another world of peace.

Tourist spots: Eravikulam National Park , Anamudi Peak, Matupetty Dam , Top Station Viewpoint, Tea Museum , Pallivasal, and Chinnakanal waterfalls, and also for adventurous activities there is no limit.

• 2 Nights 3 Days Munnar Trip
• 4 Days Munnar Alleppey Travel
• Munnar Thekkady Alleppey Tour

8. Gokarna:

Gokarna is a beautiful and serene coastal town of Karnataka that opens with pristine beaches and sacred temples. The place is quite popular for its Arabian Sea beaches and famous Hindu Temples. For adventure and nature lovers, many places and things of Gokarna are the highlights to enjoy.

Tourist spots: Kudle Beach, Om Beach, Paradise Beach, Half Moon Beach, Mahabaleshwar Temple, and Shiva Cave Temple. Through boating, you can spot Dolphins in Gokarna.

• 3 Days Gokarna and Jog Falls Trip
• 2 Days Gokarna Itinerary from Bangalore

Hampi is a famous UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Karnataka known for its historic constructions and monuments. Once Hampi was the capital of the Vijayanagara Kingdom and it boasts rich architectural structures and heritage of the bygone era. For history buffers, this place is an iconic wonder to explore.

Tourist spots: Virupaksha Temple , Lotus Mahal, Vittala Temple , Queen’s Bath, Hemakuta Hill, and Achyutaraya Temple. Hampi Bazar is the best place to shop for wonderful artifacts and handicrafts.

• 3 Days Hampi Temple Tour
• 4 Days Hampi Itinerary

10. Wayanad:

Located in the western ghats, Wayanad is a nature’s paradise with lush green forests, wildlife sanctuaries, viewpoints, coffee and tea plantations, etc a lot. Simply, Wayanad is an abundant destination for rich natural wealth. With its picturesque landscapes and the beauty of nature, it will make you fall in love with the place. Simply, Wayanad is a heaven on the earth.

Tourist spots: Chembra Peak, Edakkal Caves, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Thirunelli Temple, Pookode Lake, Kuruvadweep, and Banasura Sagar Dam.

Weekend Getaways in the Eastern  Region:

11. darjeeling:.

Located at an altitude of 2000 mt above sea level, Darjeeling is a spectacular hill station in West Bengal . The panoramic views of the Himalayas from this hill station are just mind-blowing and breathtaking. Besides, its tranquil atmosphere, rich culture, lush green tea plantations, viewpoints, etc a lot about Darjeeling will make you speechless.

Tourist spots: Tiger Hill, Batasia Loop and War Memorial, Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, Japanese Peace Pagoda, etc. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is a must-try thing to capture the beauty of Darjeeling nature.

• 3 Nights 4 Days Darjeeling Trip
• Darjeeling Gangtok Kalimpong Tour
• 7 Days Darjeeling & Gangtok Travel

12. Shillong:

The capital city of Meghalaya , Shillong is a fantastic destination located in the East Khasi Hills. The place is quite famous for its rich culture and natural attractions. Its beautiful waterfalls, viewpoints, and lakes are the center of attraction of the place. Besides, Cherrapunji and Mawsynram known for their record-breaking rainfall are close to Shillong to explore their rich natural wealth.

Tourist spots: Elephant Falls, Sati Falls, Umiam Lake, Laitlum Canyons, Wards Lake, Shillong Peak, Don Bosco Museum, MawphlangForest, etc.

• 5 Days Guwahati Shillong Tour
• Shillong Cherrapunji Mawlynnong Trip
• 3 Nights 4 Days Meghalaya Travel

13. Gangtok:

Nestled in the eastern ranges of the Himalayas, Gangtok is a serene and beautiful place in Sikkim . The place is quite famous for its rich culture, natural attractions, and Buddhist monasteries. The views of the Himalayas and Kanchenjunga are just stunning to experience from Gangtok. Simply, a great destination to enjoy untouched nature.

Tourist spots: Changu or Tsomgo Lake, Ganesh Tok, Rumtek Monastery, Hanuman Tok, Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, Do DrulChorten Stupa, Tashi Viewpoint, etc.

• 3 Nights 4 Days Gangtok Tour
• 6 Days Gangtok Lachung Trip
• Gangtok Kalimpong Darjeeling Tour

14. Tawang:

Located at an altitude of 3,048 mt above sea level, Tawang is a spectacular town located in the Himalayan mountains. It is a great place to witness the majestic views of the Himalayas, other peaks, and beautiful lakes. Besides, the monasteries of the place are other important attractions to explore. Simply, Tawang is a majestic and cultural destination to visit.

Tourist spots: Tawang Monastery, Jaswant Garh War Memorial, Sela Pass, Tawang War Memorial, Jang Falls, Pangang Teng Tso Lake, and Gorichen Peak.

Puri is a beautiful coastal city located on the eastern coast of India in Odisha . The city with beautiful and serene beaches, sacred temples, and artistic villages looks vibrant and authentic to experience like this before. Its rich culture and heritage add more charm to the destination. In a few words, Puri is a simple and authentic place to visit at least once.

Tourist spots: Jagannath Temple , Konark Sun Temple , Puri Beach, Swargadwar Beach, Konark Beach, Balighai Beach, Chilika Lake, Puri Art and Craft Village.

• 3 Days Puri & Bhubaneshwar Tour
• 6 Days Bhubaneshwar Puri Konark Trip

Weekend Getaways in the Western  Region:

16. lonavala – khandala:.

Lonavala and Khandala are the two twin hill stations of Maharashtra located in the Sahyadri mountain range. The twin hill stations are quite famous for their picturesque landscapes, nature, historic monuments, temples, viewpoints, etc a lot. In the entire West, they are very popular for their beautiful attractions.

Tourist spots: Lion’s Point, Duke’s Nose, Tiger Point, Sunset Point, Visapur Fort, Lohagad Fort, Tikona Fort, Ekvira Devi Temple, Karla Caves, etc.

Lonavala & Khandala Package: 2 Nights 3 Days Lonavala Khandala Trip Itinerary

17. Mount Abu:

Mount Abu is the only hill station located in the Rajasthan state. Nestled in the Aravalli range, Mount Abu is a wonderful hill station known for historic forts and constructions, beautiful gardens, temples, and a serene atmosphere. For Rajasthan people, this place is the best escape weekend gateway.

Tourist spots: Dilwara Temples , Nakki Lake, Achalgarh Fort, Sunset Point, Honeymoon Point, Guru Shikhar, Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary, Peace Park, Brahma Kumaris Peace Park, etc.

18. Mahabaleshwar:

Another jewel of the Aravalli range, Mahabaleshwar is a wonderful hill station in Maharashtra. The tranquil atmosphere, religious attractions, historic monuments, picturesque landscapes, etc many things in this place made it a paradise for natural lovers to soak in serenity. For those who want to submerge in a tranquil atmosphere, this is the place to visit.

Tourist spots: Mahabaleshwar Temple, Pratapgarh Fort, Venna Lake, Arthur’s Seat, Elephant’s Head Point, Wilson Point, Mapro Garden, etc.

• 4 Nights 5 Days Mahabaleshwar Itinerary
• 4 Days Mahabaleshwar With Panchgani Tour

19. Udaipur:

Very few people live on this earth without knowing about Udaipur . Such a lovely and romantic destination in Rajasthan. Known for architectural marvels, beautiful lakes, palaces, gardens, etc for many things Udaipur is the best to explore. For its stunning attractions and wonders, the city is also called the “Venice of the East” and “City of Lakes”. Especially for a romantic weekend gateway, this is the best choice.

Tourist spots: Lake Pichola , Jag Mandir Palace, Fateh Sagar Lake, City Palace, Saheliyon-ki-Bari , Jagdish Temple, Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary, Monsoon Palace, etc.

• 3 Days 2 Nights Udaipur Package
• 4 Days Udaipur Jodhpur Itinerary
• Udaipur Package 2 Days
• 5 Days Udaipur Kumbhalgarh Tour
• Udaipur Ranakpur & Chittorgarh Trip

20. Daman and Diu:

Located on the western coast of the Arabian Sea, Daman and Diu is a union territory known for wonderful tourist attractions. Its serene beaches, historic forts, colonial structures, religious sites, etc many things stand as the major attractions to explore in Daman and Diu. For adventurous thrillers, there is no dearth of water sports to dwell on.

Tourist spots: Devka Beach, Moti Daman Beach, Jampore Beach, Ghogla Beach, Gomtimata Beach, Nagoa Beach, Diu Fort, St. Paul’s Church, Somnath Mahadev Temple, Gangeshwar Mahadev Temple, etc.

Daman & Diu Package:  2 Nights 3 Days Daman Diu Travel Itinerary

From any corner of India, if you want to escape for a short weekend trip, these are all the options to search for. Every place is a marvel of its uniqueness and attractions to relax and soak in peace to switch off your work mode.

Further Insights:

• Top 10 Weekend Getaways from Coimbatore
• Romantic Getaways Near Pune: Top 10 Places
• 12 Places to Visit near Hyderabad
• Top 10 Weekend Gateways from Patna
• 10 Famous Weekend Getaways from Mumbai
• Top 10 Relaxing Weekend Getaways near Ranakpur
• 10 Best Weekend Getaways from Dehradun
• Best 10 Short Trip Places from Gurgaon

About The Author

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Hindi, Urdu, Tamil, Bengali, Kashmiri, Kannada, Marathi, Gujarati, Telugu, English

(GMT+05:30) Chennai, Kolkata, Mumbai, New Delhi

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type C (European 2-pin) Type D (Old British 3-pin) Type M (see D)

Learn more about India

Best time to visit india.

Due to India's size and topography, the climate varies from place to place but the best time to visit, generally speaking, is in the winter from December until early March. During the coolest months (December-January), temperatures can get quite cold in Delhi and in the north, especially at night. The whole country tends to get very hot from April onwards and most regions experience the summer from late May to around October. The summer offers hot and humid conditions, although this is considered one of the best times to visit Ladakh and the hills.

Learn more about the best time to visit India

Culture and customs

India is one of the world’s oldest civilizations with a culture steeped in ancient beliefs and traditions. Religion also plays a massive role in everyday life with 80% of the population practicing Hinduism while the remaining 20% is divided into Muslim (India has the world’s second-largest Muslim population), Christian, Sikhism and Buddhist populations.

At its core, India remains a deeply conservative nation; however, it has been touched by rapid modernization and Western influences in recent years. Some families still adhere to a traditional structure (especially in more rural areas) with generations living under the same roof, the eldest male at the head of the family and arranged marriages. But this is becoming less and less popular, particularly in larger cities, where Western ideas and societal shifts heavily influence the culture due to things like Bollywood films.

While some behavioral standards remain the same (public displays of affection are still taboo), it’s important to keep in mind that with more than one billion people speaking over 122 languages across 28 states and seven territories, it’s impossible to describe one unified culture for the entire nations and the character of India’s people can vary greatly from city to city.

Witness India's multi-faceted culture firsthand on a Delhi to Goa adventure - 15 days

Top places to visit in India

Surely there isn't a more iconic image of India than the Taj Mahal. It's spectacular and soul-stirring, but words simply aren't enough to describe the beauty of this immense mausoleum (even when it's packed with tourists). Best known as a monument to love and loss, the 17th-century building was built by Emperor Shah Jahan as a tomb for his second wife – a bold declaration of love, indeed! Wander around Agra on our 3 day Taj Mahal Extension or on our 15 day Real Kathmandu to Delhi tour.

2. Udaipur, Rajasthan

Welcome to Udaipur, India's most romantic city that could easily give Venice a run for its money. You'll undoubtedly fall in love as you explore its grand marble palaces, shimmering lakes, and winding alleys filled with cozy chai bars and dizzying bazaars. It's also a popular hub for Indian artists, dancers, and musicians whose talents will pull you deeper under Udaipur's spell. Get lost in the beauty of Udaipur on our 15 day Rajasthan Experience or on our 15 day Classic Rajasthan tour.

3. Ranthambhore National Park

Ranthambhore National Park was once a famous hunting ground for the Maharajas of Jaipur, but these days it's a haven for wildlife. Jump into a 4WD and search for Bengal tigers, hyenas, jackals, deer, langurs, marsh crocodiles and more. You can also hike up to the stunning ruins of the 10th-century fort or experience the peace and tranquillity of the ancient Ganesh temple (one of the oldest temples in India). Go wildlife spotting on our 14 day Premium India in Depth tour or on our 10 day Northern India Family Holiday.

4. Kerala Backwaters

Surrounded by tea and coffee plantations and connected by a series of blissful, palm-shaded backwaters, Kerala is a peaceful oasis deep within India's colorful chaos. Float along the dreamy waters of rural Kerala on a houseboat, paddle over to an island village on a pole boat for an overnight homestay with a local family, and enjoy traditional Keralan food served on a banana leaf. Explore the Kerala Backwaters on our 13 day Premium South India tour or on our 13 day Classic South India tour.

5. Varanasi

Varanasi is a place that will be etched in your memory long after your time in India is over. Uncover the stories and secrets of this holy city with your local guide, get lost in the laneways, cruise along the golden Ganges at dawn, or witness ancient religious traditions and groups of pilgrims praying in the river. Even if all you do in Varanasi is sit along the ghats and watch life go by, you'll walk away with countless stories to tell. Experience Varanasi's holiness on our 4 day Varanasi Homestay Extension , on our 11 day India Getaway or on our 11 day Real North India adventure.

This holy desert city is one of the main pilgrimage destinations for Hindus. Explore the bustling ghats and temples around Pushkar Lake, watch devout rituals and worship at the Brahma Temple, share a meal with a local family while learning about their life and culture, or hike up the hill to the beautiful Savitri Temple for unbeatable sunrise views over the town. Embark on a pilgrimage on our 22 day North India Revealed tour or on our 15 day Cycle Rajasthan tour.

Get ready for delicious bites and lots of Bollywood. Some say Mumbai is the food capital of India, and you'll see, smell and taste huge culinary diversity here that celebrates regional cuisines from across the country. You might also like to watch life go by at Dhobi Ghat (the world’s largest outdoor laundry), check out the Bollywood Walk of Fame, or explore the sprawling Crawford Market selling everything from fruit to jewelry. Snack your way through Mumbai on our 15 day India Real Food Adventure .

8. Dharamsala

The mountainous Himalayan town of Dharamsala, also known as McLeod Ganj, is home to the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan government in exile. Tibetan culture is central to life here and it won't take long for the town's calming, grounding energy to wash over you. Sip chai and watch robed monks strolling between the monasteries, listen to the prayer flags fluttering in the breeze, and visit the Dalai Lama’s temple. Soak up the Tibetan culture on our 13 day Mountains & Mystics of India tour.

9. Rishikesh

Not only is Rishikesh the yoga capital of the world, but it's also one of the best places to experience the sacred soul of the Ganges. Join a yoga or meditation class along the riverbanks, enjoy delicious vegetarian food in one of the many rooftop cafes, go white-water rafting down the Ganges for a different perspective of this holy river, or experience the nightly fire ritual known as Ganga Aarti at one of the city's dazzling temples. Meditate in Rishikesh on our 19 day Best of India tour.

Tinged with Portuguese influence (and flavors!), the state of Goa boasts lovely beaches, rich traditions, World Heritage-listed buildings and mouth-watering food. Kick back with a coconut (or cocktail), join a yoga class on the beach, visit a local spice farm to learn about some of the essential ingredients in Indian cuisine, or pick up fresh ingredients at the market and cook up a storm with a local Goan cook. Experience Goa on our 37 day Iconic India tour or on our 16 day South India Revealed tour.

The gorgeous pink stone buildings in Jaipur’s old town have earned the city its 'Pink City' nickname. Discover buzzing bazaars filled with handcrafted textiles and jewelry, dodge camel carts and rickshaws as you stroll through the streets, explore the oh-so-impressive Amber Fort, or visit the home of a local Brahmin family to learn about their culture and way of life over a delicious homemade meal. Marvel at Jaipur's pink-hued streets on our 8 day India's Golden Triangle tour or on our 12 day India Women's Expedition.

Home to the magnificent Mysore Palace and the birthplace of Ashtanga yoga, there's no denying Mysore is one of South India's most captivating cities. Lose yourself in the grandeur of the palace's ornately decorated rooms, marvel at the intricate Hoysala architecture of Keshava Temple, go on a hunt for the tastiest idli, or share a tasty biryani lunch with a local family. Explore Mysore on our 15 day Southern India tour.

Delhi is a place where ancient temples stand beside Bollywood billboard ads, people commute to work alongside sacred cows and monkeys, and pockets of peace exist within the chaos. The electric energy of India's capital city is palpable, and while it can take some getting used to, there's no denying the excitement of discovering new sights, sounds, tastes and smells at every turn – especially when you have a local leader by your side. Experience the chaos of Delhi on our 15 day Delhi to Kathmandu tour or on our 9 day North India Highlights tour.

14. Thar Desert, Rajasthan

Check another item off your bucket list as you travel across the pristine dunes of the Thar Desert on camelback, stopping at a few dhanis (small villages) along the way. When you reach your camp, enjoy dinner in the relaxing desert ambiance before sleeping in a comfy permanent tent under the stars. This desert safari is bound to be one of the main highlights of your adventure. Soak into the sand on our 16 day Real Rajasthan tour or on our 11 day Rajasthan Adventure .

Food and drink

Intrepid believes that one of the best ways to experience a country is by eating. Whether you're sampling street food, savoring a cheap eat or indulging in a banquet, there are endless options to choose from wherever you are in the world. Indian food is one of the world's most favored cuisines, and travelers will be in for a real treat when visiting India. Relying heavily on spices and vegetables, vegetarians will be delighted with the multitude of meat-free dishes available and visitors will be able to notice marked differences in the cuisines of each region.

Read more about Indian food

Read more about Indian drinks

Geography and environment

India shares land borders with   Bangladesh ,   China , Pakistan,   Nepal ,   Myanmar   and   Bhutan , and also has wide stretches of coastline along the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal and Indian Ocean. As the seventh largest country in the world, India is home to a variety of terrains - the Himalayas of the north, the deserts and plains of the west, the fertile waterways of the south and the hills and forests of the east. Development is occurring at a rapid pace, with India's large, sprawling cities consisting of everything from five star hotels to shanty towns, and with modern malls and cinemas sitting comfortably alongside bazaars and street food vendors. A trip through India will reveal a diverse range of landscapes, villages, cities and environments.

History and government

Early history.

Humans have inhabited India for as long as 75,000 years, with early civilizations flourishing as early as 3300 BC. Over the centuries, India both influenced and was influenced by other nations and kingdoms, with far-reaching trade, conquest and migration spreading the subcontinent's culture far and wide. Empires rose and fell over the centuries, with the wealthy Mughal Dynasty ruling most of India by 1600. At the same time, different European nations started showing an interest in India after being brought to the area for trade. The Portuguese, Dutch, British and French all had vested interests in India, with the British East India Company being given the rights to trade in India in 1617. The 1857 rebellion and War of Independence culminated in the decline of Mughal rule and were considered the first movements against the British Raj's heavy-handed rule of the country.

Recent history

By the 1920s, India's independence movement had grown considerably with Mohandas Gandhi leading mass movements based on passive resistance and non-cooperation against the British Raj. Although it took decades, India finally gained independence in 1947. More recently, India has seen dramatic societal changes mainly due to modernization and globalization. A new wave of prosperity has seen the rise of the middle class, with men and women entering into new work roles in telecommunications, manufacturing and business. India's large cities are dealing with the mass migration of rural citizens, who are moving to the city to seek better employment, education and opportunities for their children.

Top 10 sensory experiences of India

1. potent pleasures.

Breathe in the intoxicating aroma of fresh spices while wandering through the bustling markets of India. Cardamom, coriander, cinnamon and nutmeg are classic spices of the subcontinent and aren't hard to find - the fresh scent envelopes markets across the country.

2. Fiery flavours

Treat your tastebuds to the spicy flavors of India with a traditional aromatic curry. Indulge in the heady mix of coconut milk, chili, ginger, ghee and spices, then cool down by sipping on a refreshing Lassi - the perfect antidote to the unrelenting heat of an Indian curry.

3. Colourful chaos

Experience the urban cacophony of Delhi - a unique collision of cultures, cattle and people. Hear the rumble of cars, trucks and buses, the frantic calls of street vendors and hawkers, the sizzle of food and the rustic ring of a cow's bell in this unforgettable and irrepressible city.

4. In the pink

Admire the dazzling pink hues of Jaipur. Watch the historic palaces, forts, temples and monuments of the 'Pink City' be bathed in a dusky pink glow as the golden sun sets over the dramatic Aravalli Range.

5. Rat race

Walk barefoot through the Karni Mata Temple as thousands of rats scamper across the marble floor. Just felt a furry rodent scurry over your feet? Fear not - it's a sign of good luck in this unique rat-worshipping temple.

6. Instant karma

Experience the multi-sensory wonder of an Aarti ceremony on the banks of the Ganges. Hear the clanging of bells, watch the luminous glow of fire, smell wafts of pungent incense and hear rousing devotional songs and mantras. Be immersed in the fire and prayer of this Hindu ritual and be changed forever.

7. Gorgeous Goa

Sit beachside in Goa and gaze into the sublime beauty of the ocean. Take a moment to kick back and soak up the clear skies and deep blue sea of this exotic island. Watch the sun's rays shimmer on the horizon and bask in the golden glow of this balmy retreat.

8. Silky sophistication

For a slice of extravagance, feel the soft, luxurious touch of traditional Indian silk. Made in a variety of vibrant colors and perfect for making everything from saris to prayer mats and decorative hangings to upholstery, the inimitable feel of finely crafted silk is a simple pleasure in life.

9. Answered prayers

Hear the flutter of prayer flags as they flap in the wind near the isolated monasteries of Dharamsala. In a stark environment of rugged, mountainous landscapes, quietness permeates the air, except for the unique sound of prayer flags collecting prayers and sending them to the heavens above.

10. Big screen brilliance

Be treated to a feast for the senses at a bombastic Bollywood movie screening. Covet the glamorous costumes, marvel at the energetic choreography and delight in the lively music. Revel in the razzle-dazzle of the whole spectacle and be swept away by the irresistible charm of India's triumphant cinematic phenomenon.

India's fragrant bazaars, modern boutiques and village markets are brimming with wares harnessing centuries of artistic traditions. With talented artisans and top quality items at low prices, India is a shopper's paradise. It's a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country. Australia and New Zealand generally have strict quarantine laws.

Things to buy in India

From big, chunky ornate silver earrings to vibrant bangles and bold statement rings, India's silversmiths and jewelry makers ensure there are lots of pieces to choose from in the bazaars and shops.

2. Wraps, scarves and shawls

Whether you're looking for pricey pashmina, luxurious silk or colorful cotton, India has a huge variety of materials to wrap yourself in.

If you're lucky enough to be able to bring tea into your home country, then pick up some of the world's finest tea from the Darjeeling, Assam or Nilgiri regions.

Indian cotton sheets, embroidered bedspreads and colorful cushion covers can be picked up in bazaars at a fraction of the price paid elsewhere.

Many shops are open between 9 am and 7 pm, Monday through Saturday, though hours can vary at bazaars. Most shops are closed on Sunday.

Festivals and events in India

Many of India’s biggest festivals are religious and follow either the Indian lunar calendar or the Islamic calendar. The dates may change each year, but the fervor of celebration never does. Some of the best and biggest festivals to keep an eye out for in India are:

Holi (Festival of Colour)

Take a whole lot of colored powder and water, add thousands of happy people not afraid to get a little (or a lot) dirty and you have Holi – a technicolor Hindu celebration that marks the beginning of spring and the triumph of good over evil. Celebrations take place across India in either February or March.

Diwali (Festival of Lights)

India’s biggest festival – meaning ‘rows of lighted lamps’, people decorate their homes with colorful lights, candles are lit and firework displays take place across the country. The celebrations are particularly spectacular in Varanasi, where illuminated candles and earthen lamps are floated down the Ganges River as fireworks light up the sky. This five-day festival takes place every October or November.

Gujarat Kite Festival

Large, colorful and unusual kites flood the skies of Gujarat each January to commemorate the start of summer and the beginning of harvest. Purchase your own at Patang Bazaar, a famous kite market, or just watch the others dance through the sky.

Mumbai Ganesh Festival

The birth of the elephant-headed god, Ganesh, is celebrated for 10-days each August or September in cities across India, but Mumbai takes it to another level. An incredible energy can be felt throughout the city as people pack the streets for a massive party and an elaborate statue of Ganesh is paraded around.

Pushkar Camel Fair

Thousands of camels (and their owners dressed in their finest garb) descend upon Rajasthan's Pushkar for the annual camel fair. Camels are traded and raced, acrobats and performers entertain crowds at a nearby fair, while finely dressed males and bejeweled females take the chance to let their hair down.

Learn more about festivals in India

Further reading

Similar destinations.

We have a variety of similar destinations, trips and routes that you could consider! Tie another trip into your holiday, or, see how we can help you get from A to B. We have tours departing from a variety of locations around India. The options below may be of interest:

Kathmandu to Delhi Tours From Delhi Tours to Delhi

India travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

Is it safe to travel to India?

India can be overwhelming sometimes, but it's generally a safe country for travelers and many people enjoy their time without any problems.

Is it safe for women to travel in India?

India can be overwhelming sometimes but most travellers enjoy their time in India without any problems. That said, some regions experience ongoing issues, and there are several things a traveler should keep in mind when traveling through India to minimize their chances of running into any trouble.

Do I need a visa to travel to India?

Yes, all foreigners entering India will need a visa. Whether you can apply for an e-visa is dependent on your nationality, the duration of your India tour and how you plan on entering the country.

This page is for general information only and may be subject to change. It is your responsibility to obtain relevant visa and travel information required for entry, departure and travel to each country or region you visit on your trip. You should confirm these with the relevant embassies and/or consulates. 

Last updated: 22/06/2023

Is tipping customary in India?

While traveling through India, on a tour or otherwise, it’s expected one would tip porters, drivers, restaurant staff and other service workers given the low wages they earn.

What is the internet access like in India?

Internet access is generally very good in India, with most cafes, restaurants and accommodations offering free wi-fi, even in the more rural areas. There is also good phone coverage for data use if you choose to purchase a local SIM card to stay connected for the duration of your India tour.

If you do wish to purchase a local SIM in India, make sure your phone has been unlocked before your tour begins. There are quite a number of carriers that are all very competitive, but Airtel is probably the best option for travelers. You’ll need to a copy of your passport and visa to pick up a SIM, and the process can sometimes be a hassle, but rates in India are very affordable given the competition.

Can I use my cell phone while in India?

Yes, you’ll be able to use your cell phone while on an India tour, but only if you have activated global roaming or purchased a local SIM card.

What are the toilets like in India?

Squat toilets are the most common toilets in India. Always carry your own toilet paper and soap or hand sanitizer, as they are usually not provided. Flushable, Western-style toilets can be found in up-market restaurants, some higher-end hotels and in some tourist areas.

What will it cost for a...?

India’s unit of currency is the rupee:

• Cup of tea = INR 7-10
• Small bottle of beer = INR 150-350
• Meal at a local restaurant (thali, masala dosa or similar) = INR 100-200
• Meal in a tourist restaurant = INR 350-600

Can I drink the tap water in India?

India is notorious among travelers for sickness – we’ve all heard horror stories about Delhi belly. We do not recommend ever drinking tap water in India, and travelers should avoid drinks with ice and foods that haven’t been cooked or peeled. Salad is off the menu for now ­– let your inner child rejoice!

Are credit cards widely accepted in India?

Credit cards are being accepted in an increasing number of cafes, shops, restaurants and hotels in India, with Mastercard and Visa being the most common. That said, cash is still king, especially outside of cities like Kolkata, Delhi and Mumbai.

What is ATM access like in India?

ATMs are widespread across India in both cities and smaller towns. Visa, Mastercard, Cirrus and Maestro are the most commonly accepted cards, but of those Visa and Mastercard are more likely to have success. The daily withdrawal limit differs from bank to bank.

What is the weather like in India?

The weather in India varies from region to region, but it’s generally safe to say that December–February sees dry, cooler weather before the heat intensifies from March–May. June, July and August are the monsoon months, though the amount of rain differs across the country, while October, September and November see rainfall ease once more.

What public holidays are celebrated in India?

India has different classifications of holidays because of the multitude of faiths in the country. There are compulsory holidays and then various others chosen by government offices within each state. The following are the compulsory ‘gazetted holidays’ taken by government offices across India:

• 26 Jan: Republic Day
• Feb/Mar: Maha Shivaratri*
• Mar/Apr: Rama Navami*
• Apr: Mahavir Jayanti*
• Mar/Apr: Good Friday*
• May: Buddha’s Birthday*
• May: Eid ul-Fitr (end of Ramadan)*
• Jul/Aug: Eid ul-Adha*
• 15 Aug: Independence Day
• Aug/Sep: Janmashtami*
• Aug/Sep: Islamic New Year*
• Sep/Oct: Dussehra*
• Oct: Birth of the Prophet Mohammed*
• 2 Oct: Mahatma Gandhi’s birthday
• Oct/Nov: Diwali*
• Nov: Guru Nanak Jayanti*
• 25 Dec: Christmas Day

* Please note, India public holidays may vary.

Is India safe for LGBTQIA+ travelers?

The majority of Indian society is still conservative, and while most travelers will have a welcoming and hospitable experience, discretion is still advised for LGBTQIA+ travelers, particularly in more remote towns and villages which may be more conservative. The same advice is also given to heterosexual couples (and couples of all other sexual orientations) as public displays of affection other than hugging and holding hands are generally frowned upon.

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting  Equaldex  or  ILGA  before you travel.

Is India accessible for travelers with disabilities?

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them towards the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

As a general rule, knowing some common words in the local language, carrying a written itinerary with you and taking to the streets in a group, rather than solo, can help make your travel experience the best it can be.

What to wear in India

What you decide to pack and wear in India will depend on where you are and what time of year it is. The weather across India usually follows the monsoon cycle, so it’s quite easy to plan what to pack when it comes to rain, but temperatures will vary quite a bit from the north to the south.

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

How will I be traveling around India?

Intrepid believes half the fun of experiencing a new country is getting there, and getting around once there! Where possible, Intrepid uses local transport options and traditional modes of transport - which usually carry less of an environmental impact, support small local operators and are heaps more fun.

Depending on which trip you're on while in India, you may find yourself traveling by Jeep.

Safari through jungles and national parks aboard a jeep, which is ideal for conquering the difficult terrain and offers supreme wildlife viewing opportunities.

Cruising the waterways of India is a revealing, inspiring experience. Whether it’s the iconic Ganges or peaceful Kerala backwaters, seeing India from the water is a must.

Traveling by train is one of the great experiences of India. It's a system which looks like chaos, but it works - and well.

Use the efficient metro to get around the sights and suburbs of Delhi.

Zip around the big cities of India by auto rickshaw.

What kind of accommodation will I be staying in?

Traveling with Intrepid is a little bit different. We endeavor to provide travelers with an authentic experience to remember, so we try to keep accommodation as unique and traditional as possible.

When traveling with us in India you may find yourself staying in a homestay.

Make new friends, feast on authentic home cooking and receive kind hospitality while staying with friendly families in India.

With walks, wildlife spotting and adventure sports nearby, staying in a jungle resort is the perfect way to see another side of India.

From ex-royal palaces to historic hill stations and converted forts, India is full of heritage properties that have been turned into comfortable accommodation with an old-world touch.

What is it like traveling on a small group tour?

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or you’re about to embark on your first trip, traveling can be as intimidating as it is exciting. That's the beauty of a small group tour. From handling the logistics and organizing amazing cultural activities to local leaders who know each destination like the back of their hand (like which street has the best markets and where to get the most authentic food), traveling on a small group tour with Intrepid will give you unforgettable travel experiences without the hassle that comes with exploring a new place. Plus, you'll have ready-made friends to share the journey with. All you have to do is turn up with a healthy sense of adventure and we’ll take care of the rest.

Does my trip to India support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. In fact, we make a donation on behalf of every traveler. Trips to India directly support our foundation partner, Positive Change for Marine Life. 

Positive Change for Marine Life

Positive Change for Marine Life nurtures ocean health with community-led conservation initiatives. Donations help them expand and implement vital programs in India that empower local communities, support sustainable fishing practices, restore marine habitats and drive policy change. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

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After an exhaustive week, a refreshing and rejuvenating weekend is all that we need! Escape to stunning holiday destinations, where a perfect break awaits you. A short getaway anywhere across India makes for a perfect short and smart holiday. Indulge in the exploration of popular family fun destinations or holy pilgrimage sites. Take in the spirit of festivities by travelling to various parts of India during colourful and enchanting festivals.

Veena World’s weekend special tour packages let you create special moments as you learn to celebrate life all over again with our travel mantra! We offer the most interesting domestic tour packages, especially for you. The handcrafted tours provide you non-stop fun and entertainment along with ample time to unwind and soak in the beauty of the destinations that you visit. Our weekend special tour packages are relaxing and carefully planned itineraries. We make sure you have all the fun and entertainment and also get sufficient time to relax and soak in the surroundings. Live the special moments and celebrate life all over again because we thrive to empower you with the most fascinating memories and invite you to relish our legacy to travel, explore and celebrate life.

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After an exhaustive week, a refreshing and rejuvenating weekend is all that we need! Veena World steps in to make it even more fun and exciting for you. Escape to stunning holiday destinations, where a perfect break awaits you. A short getaway anywhere across India makes for a perfect short and smart holiday! From North to South and from East to West, Veena World offers you a wide array of options - from popular family fun destinations to holy pilgrimage sites. Take in the spirit of festivities by travelling to various parts of India during colourful and enchanting festivals. Select the ‘By Air’ option and enjoy a hassle-free and memorable holiday. It’s time you rocked your weekends…Chalo, Bag Bharo, Nikal Pado with Veena World’s weekend special tours. Get ready to explore, experience and have a blast; after all, this is your time! Rejuvenate yourself, and enjoy your “me time”. Veena World brings well-planned tours that include a balance of activities and leisure time along with carefully selected accommodations, knowledgeable guides and a safe travel experience. Be a part of this exclusive weekend treat! Veena World’s weekend special tours packages let you create special moments as you learn to celebrate life all over again with our travel mantra! We offer the most interesting domestic tour packages for you. The handcrafted tours provide you non-stop fun and entertainment along with ample time to unwind and soak in the beauty of the destinations that you visit. Our weekend special tours packages are relaxing and carefully planned itineraries. We make sure you have all the fun and entertainment and also get sufficient time to relax and soak in the surroundings. Come with us, create special moments and celebrate life all over again!

Veena World’s unique weekend special tour packages, especially handcrafted for you make it irresistible to choose from! If you’re looking for a perfect getaway, the world around you awaits to surprise you. Lift up the spirit of exploration and engage in a heart-warming symphony that awaits to give you a perfect vacation to be selected from our specially crafted itinerary options. We use our passionate unrivalled knowledge to gift you a perfect trip to be cherished all your life! We empower you to make the most fascinating memories with us and invite you to relish our legacy of travel, explore and celebrate life.

The Highlights & Experience

Escape to stunning holiday destinations, where a perfect break awaits you! A short getaway anywhere across India makes for a perfect holiday. Indulge in the exploration of popular family fun destinations or holy pilgrimage sites. Take in the spirit of festivities by travelling to various parts of India during colourful and enchanting festivals. Choose from the array of colourful options offered by Veena World. We handpick specially designed itineraries to make your weekend wonderful and one-of-a-kind.

Amritsar Wagah Border

Welcome to the land of Amritsar, the spiritual and cultural centre for the Sikh religion. Explore the city of Amritsar and visit Jallianwala Bagh, Harmandir Sahib Temple, informally referred as “Golden Temple”, Akal Takht, Durgaiana Temple also called as Laxmi Narayan Temple and Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum at Summer Palace. Witness the patriotism awaken in you as you enter Wagah Boarder, to witness 'lowering of the flags' ceremony. Enjoy the local experience of farm stay, where you can enjoy bullock cart ride and tractor ride. Here you get a chance to enjoy the local cuisines of Punjab for lunch followed by a walking tour of the agricultural farm and dairy farm. This truly gives y0u an insight into the rural life of Punjab!

Ashtavinayak with Shivneri Jejuri

Set on your holy tour where you explore the ancient temples to receive your blessings! Explore Ozar with a visit to Vighneshwar Temple. Later head to Lenyadri to visit Girijatmaj Temple. Explore Shivneri Fort popularly known to be the birth place of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaja. En-route you can visit Dehu Alandi. Later, proceed to Ranjangaon to visit Mahaganapati Temple. Proceed to Siddhatek where you can worship at the Siddhivinayak Temple. Later head to Morgaon to visit Mayureshwar Temple and then leave for Jejuri. On arrival, take darshan of Khandoba and then visit Prati Balaji. Further, proceed to Theur and visit the Chintamani Temple. Later, head to Mahad and visit Varad Vinayak Temple. Then leave for Pali to visit Ballaleshwar Temple.

Set your trail to explore the capital city and the historic pathways! Visit Red fort, Akshardham Temple followed by Light and Sound show at Akshardham. Visit Raj Ghat, India Gate, Rashtrapati Bhavan and Parliament House, followed by a visit to Bahai Temple (known as the Lotus temple) and Qutub Minar. In the evening, proceed to Kingdom of Dreams, the ultimate entertainment destination. Kingdom of Dreams is a spectacular world of unparalleled imagination, which brings to you a blend of India's culture, heritage, art, crafts, cuisine and performing arts. Proceed to Agra where you visit Agra Fort which is one of the UNECSO World Heritage Sites of India. After lunch, visit Taj Mahal which is considered as the finest example of Mughal architecture, a style that combines elements from Islamic, Persian, Ottoman Turkish and Indian architectural styles. Finally, you get a chance to visit Madame Tussauds Museum in Delhi.

Haridwar Rishikesh

Welcome to the land of Haridwar where you get a chance to visit Gangaghat and attend the spiritual and divine, Ganga Aarti. Visit Mansa Devi Temple, where you experience the Rope Way Ride. Later, experience the spiritual Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat. Experience thrilling white water rafting at Rishikesh. After lunch, visit Lakshman Mandir and Lakshman Zhulla, Geeta Bhavan and Prati Badri Kedarnath Temple. Mix holy trails with a pinch of adventure and add a whole new aura to your weekend!

Jaipur Mandawa

Explore the land of Mandawa which is known as the heart of the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan. Visit Mandawa fort, decorated with paintings of Lord Krishna, various carvings and amazing mirror work. Welcome to Jaipur, capital and largest city of Rajasthan State and also known as ‘Pink City’ of India. In the evening visit Birla Mandir and later enjoy shopping to your heart’s content. Visit City Palace, Hawa Mahal ‘Palace of Winds’ and Jantar Mantar. In evening visit the spectacular and iconic ‘Amer Fort’. Enjoy sound and light show at Amer Fort. Such differently flavoured experiences will make your weekend full of new stories!

Kolhapur with Amba Ghat

Explore authentic lands on your weekend, for a one of a kind experience! Visit the Shivaji Maharaja Museum at Satara. Explore Kolhapur city, which includes visit to Mahalakshmi Temple known to be one of the 108 Shakti Peethas, Chhatrapati Shahu museum also known as the Maharaja's New Palace and Rankala Lake - a very famous tourist attraction of Kolhapur city. Visit Panhala fort – famous for Battle of Pavan Khind. Then visit the famous Jyotiba temple. In the evening, enjoy some free time for shopping at Kolhapur. Explore Amba Ghat which is well known for its beautiful verdant surroundings and cool weather. Visit Manoli Dam, Pawankhind, Vishalgarh and Siddhagiri museum, a sculpture museum. This museum showcases different aspects of Gramjivan (village life). Experience history, culture and tradition filled journey, to make your weekend full of travel stories.

Nashik Shirdi Pune

Explore the ancient trails that are drenched with history! Explore the Pandav Leni Caves which are a group of 24 caves carved between the 1st century BCE and 3rd Century CE and indulge in grape vineyard tours and wine tasting. Visit Panchvati to get the true insights of Kalaram temple. Witness the Saptshrungi Temple at Vani which is also known as one of the “three and half Shakti Peetahas” of Maharashtra. Later proceed to Shirdi which is the home of the popular guru Shirdi Sai Baba to visit Shirdi Sai Baba Mandir. En-route Pune visit Vighnahar Ganapati Mandir at Ozar. At evening, visit the famous Shanivar Wada and enjoy the spectacular sound and light show at the fortress. Later, visit Saras Baugh along with Sinhagad which is popularly known as a hill fortress and famous for the battle fought by the lion Mawala warrior, Tanaji Malusare. Visit the beautiful Japanese Garden and admire the wonderful sights. Experience history, culture and a tradition filled journey, to make your weekend full of travel stories.

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15 Best Places to Visit in India, According to Travel Experts

From the alpine meadows of Kashmir to the palm-fringed beaches of Goa, these are some of the subcontinent’s most enchanting destinations.

Margot Bigg is a freelance travel writer and editor who has spent most of her adult life traveling and living overseas. Her favorite topics include India travel, experiential travel, wellness, hotels, and the arts. When not on the road, Margot enjoys studying languages, discovering new music, taking pictures of random cats, and planning her next adventures.

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As a former longtime Delhiite and frequent traveler to India, people often ask me what the country is like. I never know how to respond, for trying to sum up a nation as vast and diverse as India feels impossible. So, instead, I asked a few experts for their insights.

“If you visit India, you feel you have visited several countries, as every part is different,” says Mohd Shafi Billo, an inbound tour operator who specializes in helping international travelers plan their trips to the country. “It’s an exceptional destination, thanks to its culture, history, and inclusiveness of different people from different faiths, and it has everything to offer, from forts to mausoleums, wildlife tours to mountain adventures.”  

Shoba Rudra, founder and partner at hospitality consultancy Rare India , agrees. “The country is living a dynamic moment in history, ever-changing,” she says. “What's constant, however, is the vibrant culture lived through its festivals, cuisine, heritage, crafts, and performing arts.”

While it would take years to see it all, India is an approachable destination — if you can narrow things down. With that in mind, here are 15 of the best places to get you started on your sojourn to the subcontinent.

Gautier Houba/Travel + Leisure

Stretching along the southernmost part of India’s Malabar Coast, the tropical state of Kerala entices visitors with its marshy backwaters, which most people visit on overnight houseboat adventures. These popular cruises “showcase lush landscapes and peaceful villages, and [give visitors] a glimpse into local life amid tranquil waters and picturesque surroundings,” says Billo. While the backwaters are a star attraction, the state offers much more to explore, from the tea plantations of Munnar, known for its cool climate and seemingly endless rolling hills, to the historic city of Kochi, celebrated in equal measure for its rich coastal history and contemporary art scene . The beaches aren’t too shabby, either. “North Kerala is also famous, as the Malabar Coast is where the spice trade flourished,” says Rudra. “The coastal area is picturesque and this region is still unexplored.”

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On the opposite end of the country from Kerala, Kashmir offers entirely different — but equally captivating — landscapes. With its alpine climate, evergreen trees, and snowy winters, Kashmir is often likened to a mini Switzerland . Famed 13th-century Sufi poet Amir Khusrau once proclaimed in Farsi, “If there is a paradise on earth, it is this,” and he may have been onto something. At the heart of it all is Srinagar, Kashmir’s capital city, which is known for its elegant gardens and watery centerpiece, Dal Lake. “Highlights include staying on a houseboat or taking a shikara [traditional Kashmiri boat] ride,” says Billo, who hails from the area. Don't leave without indulging in wazwan , an opulent, meat-heavy feast that can feature up to three dozen dishes in one sitting. 

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Occupying a high-altitude plateau in the northernmost reaches of India, Ladakh is characterized by otherworldly landscapes and big skies, punctuated by palatial stupas and monasteries. Many visitors come to Ladakh’s capital, Leh, during the short summer tourist season, but this surreal region offers plenty more to experience beyond the city. Billo suggests visiting the Nubra Valley, an isolated part of the old Silk Road that’s only accessible by crossing Khardung La, one of the world’s highest motorable passes. “The valley offers a glimpse into Ladakh's unique geography and cultural diversity with monasteries, quaint villages, and apricot orchards,” says Billo. The region is also rich with unusual wildlife, from elusive snow leopards to the scaled-down Bactrian camels that originated in the steppes of Central Asia.

Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

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On the banks of the sacred Ganges River, the holy city of Rishikesh has held a place in the hearts of spiritually minded travelers — both from India and abroad — for generations. It’s the self-proclaimed “yoga capital of the world,” with a mix of traditional ashrams (spiritual rest houses) that cater largely to Hindu pilgrims and yoga centers that attract international visitors with teacher-training courses and meditation retreats. If you’re not into yoga, you’ll still find plenty to do here. Popular activities include visiting the ruins of the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi’s ashram (dubbed the Beatles Ashram in honor of its most famous former residents) to whitewater rafting adventures on the mighty Ganges. It’s also a great place for a wellness getaway, and nearby Ananda in the Himalayas was voted one of Travel + Leisure readers' favorite international spas in 2023.

Auroville, Tamil Nadu

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If you’re looking for a place that’s unlike anywhere else in India — or, frankly, the world — head to the intentional community of Auroville in South India. This UNESCO-recognized global township was founded in the 1960s with the goal of "realizing human unity," beyond the illusory divisions of creed or nationality, and it's home to generations of residents from around the world. Many visitors come for an hour or two, just long enough to view Auroville’s spiritual center — the golden, dome-shaped Matrimandir . However, it’s worth sticking around a bit longer to get a feel for what the community is about. As Akash Kapur, who grew up in Auroville and authored " Better to Have Gone " and " India Becoming ," puts it: "Come to Auroville if you're interested in alternative societies, sustainable living, or spirituality, but try not to just drop in for a few hours (as many do), and instead spend some time here, really getting to know the people and their work. The community rewards sustained immersion."

Andaman Islands

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Although most people associate the crystalline waters of the Andaman Sea with Thai island getaways, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in this tropical region are under Indian control. This little stretch of paradise is full of gorgeous shorelines, but most visitors devote their vacations to the island of Swaraj Dweep (formerly known as Havelock). The most popular beach on the island is Radhanagar Beach , which offers just over a mile of white sand sandwiched between tropical jungle and warm, transparent waters. Getting to this remote island requires a bit of gumption: You'll need to fly from the Indian mainland to Port Blair on South Andaman Island, then catch a ferry or charter a seaplane for the final stretch. While visitors are welcome on many islands in the chain, a few — including secluded North Sentinel Island — are off-limits. 

While many travelers see India’s capital as a jumping-off point for visiting further-afield destinations, it’s worth sticking around for a while to truly appreciate what Delhi has to offer. There’s certainly never a dull moment in this busy metropolis, whether you’re shopping for handicrafts at one of its numerous markets or learning about medieval and Mughal history at one of its three UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Humayun's Tomb, Qutb Minar, and Red Fort. Although Delhi is undeniably rambunctious, it also has a quieter, more peaceful side that you can find amidst the trees and 15th-century tombs of Central Delhi’s Lodi Gardens or in the quiet interiors of the Baháʼí Lotus Temple.

Taj Mahal, Agra, Uttar Pradesh

Many travelers to India put the 17th-century Taj Mahal at the top of their list. This white marble mausoleum is easily India’s most recognizable structure — and it’s one of the New Seven Wonders of the World . This popular attraction also has a romantic backstory. “This iconic symbol of love is renowned for its architectural beauty, intricate marble work, and the captivating story behind its creation by emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal,” notes Billo. The bodies of the emperor and his wife remain interred in the Taj to this day. 

Jaipur. Rajasthan

The capital of Rajasthan and one-third of North India’s popular Golden Triangle tourist route (which also includes Agra and Delhi), Jaipur is a must-visit for those who love architecture and shopping. “The Pink City, as it's nicknamed, offers a rich cultural heritage, stunning [landmarks] like Amber Fort, vibrant bazaars, and intricate handicrafts,” says Billo. Many of Jaipur's key attractions are found in the historic walled part of the city, which became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2019. Highlights include Jantar Mantar (a collection of oversized — and fully functional — astronomical instruments dating to the 17th century) and Hawa Mahal, or Palace of the Winds, a honeycomb-shaped palace designed with tiny windows that allowed air to flow freely through its interior.

Jodhpur, Rajasthan

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Dubbed the Blue City because of the cerulean-colored buildings that extend for miles through the oldest part of town, Jodhpur has long attracted travelers eager to explore the ramparts of the larger-than-life Mehrangarh Fort. It’s also home to the grandiose Umaid Bhawan Palace , which made headlines in 2018 when Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas tied the knot there. While Jodhpur’s beautiful, regal architecture is reason enough to visit, there’s more to the city than massive forts and grand palaces. “The area around the Toorji ka Jhalra stepwell in the old city is fun to explore,” says hotelier Sapna Bhatia, owner of Kaner Retreat and Jodhpur-area native. “For nature enthusiasts, there’s the Rao Jodha desert park near Mehrangarh Fort.”

Udaipur, Rajasthan

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T+L readers' favorite city in Asia and second favorite city in the world , Udaipur very much fits the bill of a fairy tale destination. Nicknamed the City of Lakes, thanks to its seven lakes, this gorgeous destination is home to some of India's finest luxury hotels plus historic whitewashed palaces, including the magnificent City Palace, an 11-palace complex that houses hotels, a huge museum with an impressive collection of European crystal, and a royal residence. A short boat ride from the palace lies the 18th-century Taj Lake Palace, an opulent palace-turned-hotel in the middle of Lake Pichola. It’s a quick drive from The Oberoi, Udaivilas , a purpose-built palatial hotel with onion-domed cupolas and a moat-like swimming pool that directly connects to some of the rooms.  

If you’re looking for a less-frequented, but no less amazing, alternative to more touristed states such as Rajasthan, consider Gujarat. “Under-explored but culturally rich, this state in India is a tapestry of festivals, textiles, architectural heritage, communities, and landscape,” says Rudra. Gujarat was also the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi, who led the Salt March, one of his most famous acts of peaceful protest, through the state in 1930. Rudra suggests visiting the National Salt Satyagraha Memorial , which “honors the activists through murals, installations, sculptures, art, and related film.” It's also worth checking out the Kutch district, known for its distinct metal bells , which were originally used for keeping track of livestock and are now popular as decorative wind chimes.

Kaziranga National Park, Assam

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The northeast Indian state of Assam is home to a treasure for wildlife enthusiasts: Kaziranga National Park . This expansive, UNESCO-listed wildlife refuge near the borders of Bangladesh and Bhutan has the largest population of Indian one-horned rhinoceroses on the planet, providing a home to roughly 2,000 of these massive beasts. Although rhinos are the star attraction on park safaris, all sorts of animals live here, including tigers, elephants, gibbons, sloth bears, and a small number of endangered Ganges River dolphins. 

Historic, glitzy, and positively gargantuan, Mumbai (formerly known as Bombay) is easily one of India’s most cosmopolitan destinations. This city by the sea is the nation's financial and entertainment capital, and while you’re unlikely to rub shoulders with Bollywood stars here, you're sure to see a lot of impressive attractions in very little time. Take a boat out to Elephanta Island to explore fifth– and sixth–century rock-hewn cave temples, marvel at the grand Indo-Saracenic architecture at Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus , or see thousands of clothes hanging out to dry at Dhobi Ghat, the world's largest open-air laundry. Then, head to the sleek neighborhood of Bandra West, where many of Mumbai’s best restaurants and hotels are located, including Taj Lands End, voted T+L readers' favorite city hotel in India in 2023.

India’s smallest state, Goa, is arguably its top beach destination, where long days of swimming and sunbathing turn into longer nights of partying on the sand. While Goa has been known as a hippie haven since the 1960s, it's started to shed its reputation in recent decades. It’s still very much a party state, though it also draws in families and couples in search of sea and sun, sans nightlife. It’s a great place for history buffs as well, with numerous seaside forts and UNESCO-recognized churches that were built when Goa was under Portuguese rule. And while the destination has always been loved for its fiery dishes that combine traditional Konkani ingredients with Portuguese influences, it has also emerged as a culinary hot spot , where a new generation of chefs is showcasing everything from Japanese yakitori to jackfruit tamales.

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5 Best Places for Short Trips in India (2024)

In today’s hectic work schedules, it is difficult to find time for taking extended holidays. In such conditions, avid travelers have found a way out to indulge themselves – short trips or quick weekend getaways. After all, it would be a shame not to put a good weekend, especially long weekends, to good use and go on a short trip. There are many places in India that are perfect for such short trips over the weekend or holidays. From snow-capped mountains to golden sandy beaches, ancient monuments, caves, and forts, there are so many destinations in India that you can visit for a short trip that you will be left wondering where to go.

5 Best Places for Short Trips in India

Here are some of the best places for short trips in India.

1. Udaipur, Rajasthan

Known as the majestic city of lakes, Udaipur is the crown jewel of Rajasthan and a perfect destination for a short getaway. Surrounded by the magnificent Aravalli Hills , this royal city is the home of fabulous forts, palaces, and, as the name suggests, innumerable artificial lakes. Udaipur is the best destination for a short trip as you can chill and relax amidst a royal setting. Enjoy watching sunsets from the beautiful palaces and forts, venture onto the many lakes on a boat ride, and explore the opulent Vintage Car Museum and City Palace as you relish some delicious local Rajasthani food.

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Some of the best places to visit in Udaipur are:

• Lake Pichola – This is the largest and oldest lake in Udaipur. It is surrounded by royal palaces, bathing ghats, and many temples, with marvelous hills covering all sides. Going on a boat ride at sunrise or sunset on Lake Pichola is one of the most beautiful experiences to have.
• City Palace – This is one of the most stunning architectural marvels in Udaipur. Located on the banks of the mesmerizing Lake Pichola, this marvelous white palace is a heritage building, and it appears like a fairytale. The City palace captures the rich Rajasthani culture and art magnificently.
• Sajjangarh Palace – Also known as the Monsoon Palace, Sajjangarh Palace is situated at the Bandara Mountain. The palace is located 944 meters above sea level and overlooks the serene Lake Pichola.
• Vintage Car Museum – Sitting just a stone’s throw away from the City Palace, the Vintage Car Museum is an excellent place for all car lovers. You will find some of the most exquisite vintage cars here.

The Fateh Sagar Lake, Jaisamand Lake, Jagdish Temple, Eklingji Temple, and the Jag Mandir Palace are some of the other beautiful attractions of Udaipur.

The best time to visit Udaipur is from September to March.

2. Murudeshwar, Karnataka

If you are in the southern part of India, Murudeshwar is the best short trip. The city of Murudeshwar is famous for being home to the second tallest statue of Lord Shiva in the world, standing tall at 123 feet. Murudeshwar is a stunning destination with the shimmering waters of the Arabian Sea surrounding the city on three sides. The majestic Western Ghats also make their presence felt. The town is a favorite weekend getaway and picnic spot for people from Karnataka and Kerala .

One of the biggest attractions here is the beach and adventure activities that take place around Netrani Island.

The Murudeshwar Temple and Fort are the main tourist spots, and the nearby Netrani Island is the best place to indulge in water sports like snorkeling, scuba diving, and many others. You will be left captivated by the rustic charm and gorgeous beauty of the Murudeshwar Temple and fort. Make it a point to check out Statue Park, where the statue of Lord Shiva is located.

For beach lovers, there is Murudeshwar Beach, though, in peak tourism season, it does tend to get very crowded. For a less crowded experience, you can opt to visit Bhatkal Beach.

The best time to visit Murudeshwar is October to May.

3. Mukteshwar, Uttarakhand

Mukteshwar is a quaint little hill station located just 50 kilometers from Nainital in Uttarakhand . This hill town is an excellent spot for adventure sports and forgetting some of the most spectacular views of the majestic Himalayan Range. The city is named after the famous 350-year-old temple Mukteshwar Dham, dedicated to Lord Shiva.

The local legend behind how the town got its name stems from the belief that Lord Shiva killed a demon here, giving him salvation or Mukti. Mukteshwar is also a popular destination for trekking as there are many lush green trails and narrow winding routes for hiking and trekking. Apart from trekking, paragliding, camping, rappelling, and rock climbing are also very popular activities.

Some of the major tourist attractions in Mukteshwar include the lush green coniferous forests, picturesque orchards, beautiful rolling meadows, and the pretty little cottages that are built-in colonial style. Places of interest include Chauli ki Jaali, Sitla, the Mukteshwar Temple, and some stunning views of the Nanda Devi mountain peak, which is the second-highest mountain peak in the country.

Mukteshwar is the perfect short trip to relax amidst nature as you listen to the chirping of a variety of birds.

4. Bishnupur, West Bengal

Bishnupur is a quaint little town in West Bengal known for its beautiful terracotta temples. The city is ideal for a short weekend trip and is very popular amongst tourists, mainly due to the rich history and culture of the town. Music, art, handicraft, rich heritage, and stunning architecture are the foundations of this beautiful little town.

For those who have a love for classical music, this is the place to visit. Indulge in the classical music and rich paintings of the town as you shop for the famous Baluchari saree. Bishnupur is a temple town. The many terracotta temples here are known for their magnificent grandeur and for being the guardians of the rich history of this region. You will be left amazed to see the architectural marvel of these temples.

Some of the top attractions to visit in Bishnupur include:

• Lalji Temple
• Jorebangla Temple
• Madam Mohan Temple
• Shyam Rai Temple
• Radha Shyam Temple
• Gate of Old Fort
• Susunia Hill
• Biharinath Hill
• Mukutmonipur

To begin with, the first place you should check out should be the very famous Jorbangla Temple, and then move on to see the impressive Gate of Old Fort located very close to the temple. For those on a spiritual journey, a visit to the Shyam Rai Temple can prove to be a heady experience.

5. Mahabaleshwar in Maharasthra

Mahabaleshwar is the land of fresh strawberries, lush greenery, mystical hills, and a breathtaking landscape that will prove to be one of the best short trips in India. Located 263 kilometers from Mumbai , Mahabaleshwar is a beautiful hill station nestled in the heart of the Western Ghats. It is located in the Satara District of Maharashtra.

This hilly town is known for its beautiful rivers, majestic peaks, and cascading waterfalls. It is one of the most popular weekend getaways in the Pune -Mumbai region.

Mahabaleshwar is also a sacred pilgrimage for Hindus as it is the point of origin for the Krishna River. Today, the town is known for its many ancient temples, manicured strawberry plantations, dense green forests, cascading waterfalls, majestic hills, and many boarding schools. Many people prefer to stop over in Mahabaleshwar to visit the fabulous Pratapgad Fort, located just an hour away.

Some of the most popular tourist attractions in Mahabaleshwar include:

• Elephant’s Head Point – This is one of the most stunning viewpoints in Mahabaleshwar. The Elephant’s Head Point is famous for giving some breathtaking views of the surrounding Sahyadri Mountain Range. The place is also known as Needle’s Point. It is best to come here during sunrise and sunset.
• Chinaman’s Falls – The Chinaman’s Falls are a must-visit when you are in Mahabaleshwar. This magnificent cascading waterfall derives its name from the nearby Chinese prison.
• Dhobi Waterfall – The Dhobi Falls is actually a group of waterfalls that connect Elphinston and Lodwick points and also join the Petit Road with the Old Mahabaleshwar Road. This destination is a must-see for checking out the incredible natural beauty. It is a surreal experience to be surrounded by so much greenery and rocks. The Dhobi Falls cascades down the Koyna River and appears to be a gorgeous spectacle that emerges from within the mist and rainbow. Dhobi Falls is a very popular picnic spot.
• Wilson Point – Located at the height of 1439 meters, this is the highest point in Mahabaleshwar. Popularly known as the Sunrise Point, this famous attraction in Mahabaleshwar is ideal for viewing the magnificent sunrise as it comes up from behind the mountainous landscape, bathing everything in golden hues.

Apart from these beautiful towns, there are many other magnificent destinations in India that are perfect for a short getaway. These include:

• Gokarna in Karnataka – the land of blue seas, palm-fringed beaches, and golden sands
• Sanchi in Madhya Pradesh – the land of the Buddhist stupas
• Dhanachuli in Uttarakhand – a lush green village in the lap of nature
• Auli in Uttarakhand – the skiing hotspot of India
• Bir Billing in Himachal Pradesh – the paragliding capital amidst Tibetan monasteries
• Ooty in Tamil Nadu – a popular hill station that is known as the Queen of the Nilgiris
• Coonoor in Tamil Nadu – the second largest hill station in the Nilgiris
• Aurangabad in Maharashtra – the land of the exotic Ajanta and Ellora Caves

So plan your short getaway at the earliest to get away from the hustle and bustle of daily life and to relax, rejuvenate, and enjoy in the lap of nature.

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The 9 most spectacular road trips in India

Dec 12, 2023 • 12 min read

From self-drive motorbike adventures to tips on hiring a car and driver, here are the best road trips in India © Solovyova / Getty Images

In India, every journey is an experience, whether you rumble across the subcontinent on a classic Enfield motorcycle or rattle through the hills in a chartered 4WD.

The simple act of traveling from A to B will immerse you in the sights , sounds and sensations of the world’s most colorful country. Plenty of people get around  by bus and train, but taking a road trip will give you extra control over your itinerary, letting you choose where to stop and which route to follow.

The good news is that you don’t need to drive yourself – it’s easy to hire a car or 4WD with a driver almost everywhere in India , meaning you can concentrate on the scenery while your driver deals with the sometimes challenging road conditions. 

If you prefer to take the driving seat, renting a motorcycle is a wonderful way to explore the subcontinent, particularly if you stick to the backroads. Self-drive car rental is harder to arrange, but some adventurous souls travel around India with their own vehicles – a few hardy travelers have even navigated India in a modified autorickshaw!

Grab your sense of adventure and get ready to hit the road with this guide to the best road trips in India. 

1. India’s Golden Triangle 

Best road trip for Mughal monuments Delhi–Delhi; 1120km (696 miles); allow five days

Short and sweet, the loop from  Delhi to  Agra and  Jaipur packs a lot of wonders into a few days of driving. Your adventure begins in Delhi, where the ruins of eight cities tell the story of India’s great Islamic empires. Hit  the city's highlights , including Red Fort, Humayun’s Tomb, the Jama Masjid and the bazaars of Chandni Chowk, which have changed only superficially since Mughal emperor Shah Jahan’s time.

With a chartered vehicle or rented motorcycle, it’s easy to swing by the sacred cities of Mathura and Vrindavan, where Krishna frolicked with milkmaids in the Hindu epics. After these peaceful stops, steel yourself for a mix of the stressful and sublime in Agra, where the glorious  Taj Mahal more than lives up to its reputation.

Find more Mughal magnificence at nearby  Fatehpur Sikri , the red sandstone city founded and later abandoned by emperor Akbar the Great. Once you follow the NH21 to Jaipur, you’ll share every fort, palace and mystical observatory with a crowd, so consider making the odd detour before you hit the Pink City’s palaces and bazaars. 

Detour: Before zooming west from Fatehpur Sikri to Jaipur, consider a detour south to  Gwalior , whose beautiful fort is less mobbed than other stops on this circuit. Before you complete the third side of the triangle, tack on one more detour to spot tigers stalking ruined battlements in  Ranthambhore National Park before diving back into urban life.

2. Manali to Ladakh across the Himalaya

Best road trip for silence and serenity Manali–Srinagar; 800km (497 miles); allow ten days

Many people follow the mountain circuit from  Manali to  Ladakh and on to  Kashmir in a chartered 4WD, but we strongly recommend traveling by rented Enfield Bullet motorcycle. This allows you the life-affirming thrill of pulling over by the roadside to find yourself alone in the silence of these high-altitude deserts in the rain shadow of the Himalayas.

From the hippie hill resort of Manali, it’s a two-day slog over the 3978m (13,051ft)  Rohtang La to  Leh , through a landscape plucked straight from the heyday of the Silk Road. There’s little vegetation and even less shade, and the cold and altitude will hit you like a sledgehammer. Recuperate with trips to Buddhist monasteries and yoga classes in Leh, then hit the road again for a different take on the Himalayas in Kashmir.

The highway west to  Srinagar weaves between ancient villages, but as the hills turn from dust-yellow to lush green, the culture shifts from Buddhism to Islam before the minarets of Srinagar loom into view. The Kashmir valley is sometimes troubled, but when it’s calm, the experience of watching  Dal Lake appearing slowly through the morning mist from the deck of a houseboat is simply sublime. 

Planning tip: Whether you drive yourself or let someone else take the wheel, it's imperative to respect the mountain climate. Snow closes the high passes into Ladakh in winter, and road travel is usually only possible from June to late September or early October.

3. Rajasthan’s colored cities 

Best road trip for desert colors Jaipur–Jaipur; 1630km (1012 miles); allow ten days

Desert driving in  Rajasthan is an incredible experience. Mighty fortresses loom dramatically out of the landscape, and you’ll share the dusty highways with camel carts and old-timers, some with vividly colored turbans and handsome mustaches. Kick-off in  Jaipur – the pink city – touring pink-sandstone palaces, bustling bazaars and the awe-inspiring fortress at  Amber .

Follow NH48 to the Jain and Muslim pilgrimage center of  Ajmer , and duck west to reach the famous  Pushkar , with its temple-circled lake and  legendary camel fair in October or November. Return to NH48 for the rumbling ride to  Udaipur , the white city – draped like a silk scarf on the shores of tranquil Lake Pichola. Dose up on ice-white palaces, then deviate west to the temple-strewn hill station of  Mt Abu . 

Veering north to  Jodhpur , you’ll immediately spot the lapis-colored buildings that earned the Blue City its name. Get another blast of military might at  Mehrangarh Fort , then drive west through serious desert country to the sand-yellow city of  Jaisalmer , whose fortified walls look almost carved from the desert itself. Close off the loop via  Bikaner , where you’ll leave the tourist crowds behind before diving back into the thick of things in Jaipur.

Detour: Having your own transport opens up the opportunity to get off the tourist track in this heavily visited state. Consider tacking on a side-trip north from Jaipur to Shekhawati, famed for its mural-filled haveli mansions. 

4. Hampi and the Hoysalas

Best road trip for temples Mysuru–Gokarna; 1060km (659 miles); allow ten days

For many travelers, visiting the time-tumbled ruins of the Vijayanagar kingdom at  Hampi is the  most memorable experience  during a trip to India. Start off in  Mysuru (formerly Mysore), with its mesmerizing markets, fiery vegetarian cuisine and famously extravagant  palace . Rumble north on the backroads to fascinating Sravanabelagola with its naked 17m (56ft) statue of  Gomateshvara , the first tirthankara  (spiritual teacher) of the Jain religion.

The temples just keep on coming in Karnataka. Slingshot through Hassan to Belur and Halebid, where the  temples of the Hoysala Empire represent perhaps the zenith of the Hindu temple-building art. A three-hour drive east will drop you in Karnataka’s capital,  Bengaluru , known for its cosmopolitan dining, shopping and nightlife. Enjoy its comforts; it’s a long drive to reach Hosapete, the leaping-off point for the ruins at Hampi.

Once you roll into Hampi’s centuries-old bazaar, allow at least two days to explore toppled temples and time travel across centuries in a landscape of stacked granite boulders. For more timeless temple architecture, duck onto the backroads to reach Badami, where blood-colored cliffs are pock-marked with  cave temples .

Detour: To mix things up, consider taking a side trip to Aihole, dotted with dusty ruins from the ancient Chalukya kingdom, then finish on the beach with some well-earned R&R in  Gokarna  – part pilgrim-town, part beach retreat. 

5. Kolkata to Darjeeling

Best road trip for Himalayan views and side treks Kolkata–Yuksom; 808km (502 miles); allow eight days

The east of India is often overlooked by the crowds who surge north from Delhi, but the journey through West Bengal to the foothills of 8586m (28,169ft) Mt Khangchendzonga has an epic sense of mission. Start in crowded but cultured  Kolkata , visiting ashrams, temples and striking civic buildings reclaimed from British rule. Fit in a tour of the tiger-stalked swamps of the  Sunderbans before you head for the hills. 

The journey north takes you past little-visited country towns to intriguing  Shantiniketan , a university town with a long history of dance, theater and poetry. From here, you’ll break north to reach the emerald-green tea plantations and delightfully dated grand hotels of  Darjeeling , where you’ll likely catch your first up-close views of the Himalayas.

To get intimate with the snow peaks, walk the Singalila Ridge trekking route or edge even closer to Mt Khangchendzonga by picking up a permit to enter lofty  Sikkim . A route through  Kalimpong ,  Gangtok and Pelling will reveal views that would make mountaineers itch for their ice axes. To cap it all off, you can get within touching distance of the snow on the trek to the Goecha La from Yuksom.

Planning tip: You’ll need a Restricted Areas Permit to enter Sikkim, but this is easily obtained in Kolkata, Siliguri or Darjeeling, or when crossing into Sikkim at Melli or Rangpo.

6. Mumbai to Goa 

Best road trip for beaches Mumbai–Palolem; 650km (404 miles); allow one week

Short journeys don’t mean scrimping on excitement in India. From brash and brilliant  Mumbai , pick up NH66 and head south, detouring down to the coast to explore fascinating forts such as  Murud-Janjira , a legacy of centuries of coastal conquest. Pull into the low-key seaside resorts at Ganpatipule and Malvan before you hit the busy beaches of  Goa . 

As you roll into northern Goa, swing by the famous market in  Anjuna and the fun-filled beach hubs at  Baga and Calangute . Head onward to  Panaji , Goa’s charming Portuguese-colonial capital, and the timeworn basilicas of  Old Goa .

The mood changes as you roll south to laid-back  Agonda , the center of Goa’s nascent surfing scene. It changes again as you head inland through green hills dotted with spice farms for a peek at thundering  Dudhsagar Falls , India’s second-highest cascade. Finish up on the sand-sprinkled shore at lovely  Palolem (making time for a bird-spotting  hike at the nearby  Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary ).  

7. A drive through the northeast

Best road trip for tribal encounters Guwahati–Guwahati; 1700km (1056 miles); allow two weeks

With a hired 4WD and a driver who can speak local languages, a fascinating journey through the varied cultures of the northeast states awaits. Start in  Guwahati , the under-explored capital of Assam, and follow the mighty Brahmaputra River northeast to  Kaziranga National Park for close encounters with one-horned Indian rhinos.

Next, aim your sights north towards  Arunachal Pradesh and the awesome  Buddhist monasteries of the Tawang Valley (local travel agencies can arrange a permit).

Add on a wander through the tribal communities of Ziro and Daporijo, and loop back through Upper Assam, continuing east to the fascinating Konyak Naga villages around Mon in northern  Nagaland . Slip back to the plains via Kohima (ideally in December to catch the  Hornbill Festival ), then climb up onto the high plateau of  Meghalaya , where trees are woven into living bridges and markets sell bows and arrows as day-to-day essentials, before barrelling downhill from  Shillong to Guwahati.

Planning tip: A Protected Area Permit is required to enter Arunachal Pradesh, and you may need to be in a group of two or more to visit some areas; contact travel agencies in Guwahati in advance to get the paperwork in place.

8. Around the tip of India

Best road trip in the south Kochi–Kochi; 807km (501 miles); allow 7 days

The bottom end of India feels like a different country. Start the journey through India’s steamy south in historic  Kochi , whose ancient streets tell a timeless tale of seafaring, trade and Keralan spices. As you roam south to  Alappuzha , park up for a day or two to explore the fascinating, waterlogged backwaters by boat.

As you pass through Amrithapuri, you can pause for a hug from a living guru before soaking up some rays on  Kerala ’s loveliest beaches at  Varkala . Next, whoosh through  Thiruvananthapuram (pause just long enough for some incendiary Keralan curries) to the southern tip of India. From here, you’ll head inland, through drier, rockier Tamil Nadu, to reach  Madurai , whose temple towers are encrusted with brightly colored deities and demons.

The trip back to Kochi will take you through the Palani Hills, a side spur of the Western Ghats, where the landscape surges upwards to  Kodaikanal , perhaps the most charming of India’s southern hill stations. Grab a cuppa amidst swirling tea plantations in  Munnar , South India’s top tea-growing center, before you return to the coast. 

Planning tip: The monsoon obscures the views from the Western Ghats from June to September, but waterfalls run at full force, so this is still a rewarding time to come.

9. Chennai to Puducherry (Pondicherry)

Best road trip for cultural variety Chennai–Puducherry; 232km (144 miles); allow 3 to 4 days

For a short, sweet and spicy trip along India’s southeast coast, consider the three-day trip from  Chennai south to  Puducherry (Pondicherry) . Start in Chennai, with its vast beach, famous-name ashrams and  delicious vegetarian cuisine , then track south along the coast, wedged between the sea and the salt lake.

Stop one is the surprising surf resort at Kovalam (Covelong), a worthy stop en route to  Mamallapuram , where you can view a riot of carvings and temples created by the Pallava dynasty. Duck inland to see the ancient Pallava capital at  Kanchipuram , then return to the coast to close out the trip at charming Puducherry, formerly Pondicherry.

A Gallic air pervades this seaside town – best experienced in heritage hotels in the old French Quarter. Just be warned: some spiritually-minded travelers pull into the famous ashram at  Auroville just north of "Pondy" and never leave! 

Top tips for hiring a car and driver in India

You’ll find drivers-for-hire offering their services at taxi and 4WD stands all over India, or you can make arrangements through hotels and travel agencies. Check that the driver speaks enough English to understand where you want to go and where you want to stop, and confirm that the driver is able to cross state lines – some vehicles are only licensed to operate in certain areas. 

You’ll need to agree on a price for the trip before you start, and the cost should include fuel, accommodation and food for the driver for multi-day trips. Prices start at around US$40 per day, rising for 4WD vehicles. Be clear with your driver about what you want from your journey; if you want to avoid stops at tourist shops and commission-paying venues, make this clear from the outset.

Exploring India by motorcycle or bike is for experienced riders

India’s roads are not for fair-weather motorcyclists, but if you have a few miles under your belt and fancy a challenge, it’s a fabulous way to explore this enormous country. Veteran hire companies such as  Lalli Singh Tours in  Delhi have sent hundreds of travelers off on journeys across India, from the steamy southern jungles to the high passes of the Himalayas.  

The best advice we can give is to ride slowly and defensively, always give way to larger vehicles, and carry a full repair kit and spares – and know how to use them! The nostalgic British-designed Enfield Bullet is the vehicle of choice for many travelers, but it’s a heavy brute; newer machines from the likes of Bajaj are lighter and easier to handle.

If you plan to pedal your way around India by bicycle, carry plenty of puncture repair kits and bring lights and high visibility gear. If you don’t want to transport your own bike into the country, consider flying into Delhi and buying a bike at the Jhandewalan Cycle Market.

This article was first published April 2022 and updated December 2023

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Short Trips from Delhi to Take on a Long Weekend

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Here is the list of 24 short trips from delhi to take on a long weekend, 1. shimla, himachal pradesh.

Known For : Mall Road, Shimla The Ridge Jakhu Temple

Probably the most popular hill station in northern India, Shimla is famous for its Mall road, the Ridge, toy train and colonial architecture. It is popular among honeymooners and families alike.

Distance from Delhi: 349 km

Best Time: October to June

63 Shimla Attractions

2. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

Known For : Rafting in Rishikesh Lakshman Jhula Triveni Ghat

Rishikesh is a small town in the Dehradun district, 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.

Distance from Delhi: 225 km

Best Time: Throughout the year

53 Rishikesh Attractions

3. Lansdowne, Uttarakhand

Known For : Bhulla Lake Tip N Top Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple

Lansdowne is a quaint little hill town located at a distance of 258 km from Delhi in Pauri district of Uttarakhand. Laden with oak and pine forest and dotted with buildings of the colonial era, this hill station is a haven for bird watchers, casual hikers and weekenders from NCR.

Distance from Delhi: 241 km

14 Lansdowne Attractions

4. Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand

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

Corbett National Park is one of the most popular places to visit on a short trip from Delhi. It is famous as the home of the Royal Bengal Tiger. Famous for its wildlife safaris, Jim Corbett National Park has multiple resorts set on the riverside.

Best Time: Mid October to Mid June

19 Jim Corbett Attractions

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Short Break to Delhi and Agra

4 night 5 days shimla manali package, splendid delhi agra jaipur package, dharamshala dalhousie honeymoon package, romantic kullu manali shimla volvo tour package, spirited kasol and manali trip, 5. agra, uttar pradesh.

Known For : Taj Mahal Agra Fort Taj Mahotsav

Home to one of the 7 wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal , Agra is one of the most visited places from Delhi. It is also home to other UNESCO World Heritage Sites as Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri  and is a part of the golden tourism triangle of Delhi, Jaipur and Agra.

Distance from Delhi: 214 km

Best Time: October to March

20 Agra Attractions

6. Jaipur, Rajasthan

Known For : Amer Fort Jantar Mantar Jaipur Hawa Mahal

Jaipur is a vibrant amalgamation of the old and the new. Also called the Pink City, the capital of the royal state of Rajasthan, Jaipur is a popular place to visit near Delhi. It holds many magnificent forts, palaces, temples and museums and brims with bustling local bazaars. The city is also very well known for its local food.

Distance from Delhi: 273 km

67 Jaipur Attractions

7. 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 to visit on a short trip from Delhi. With a backdrop of the Shivalik range of the Himalayas and doon valley, Mussoorie has a cool, pleasant climate throughout the year. It is a popular getaway for honeymooners and families.

Distance from Delhi: 272 km

Best Time: September to June

36 Mussoorie Attractions

8. Nainital, Uttarakhand

Known For : Naini Lake Snow View Point Mall Road Nainital

Nainital is a charming hill station brimming with elegant colonial structures that amplify the beauty of this place. It experiences a pleasant climate throughout the year, making Nainital a tourist getaway, especially preferred by families and honeymooners.

Distance from Delhi: 291 km

33 Nainital Attractions

9. Kufri, Himachal Pradesh

Known For : Skiing in Kufri Horse Ride to the Mahasu Peak Mahasu Peak

Kufri in Shimla district, Himachal Pradesh is one of the most sought after holiday destinations, and more so for couples, because of its proximity to Shimla and relatively higher altitude which makes it a place with snow all through the winters.

Distance from Delhi: 363 km

Best Time: November to March

13 Kufri Attractions

10. Chandigarh, Punjab

Known For : Sukhna Lake Rock Garden Elante Mall

Chandigarh is India's first planned city. It is a traditionally Punjabi city at heart with a healthy dose of modernity, Chandigarh's food and gedi culture (a leisure drive or ride the city). Chandigarh is one of the favourite weekend road trip destinations from Delhi.

Distance from Delhi: 250 km

Best Time: August to March

51 Chandigarh Attractions

11. Neemrana, Rajasthan

Known For : Neemrana Fort Palace Zip Lining Baori

Neemrana town is located in Alwar in Rajasthan on the Delhi-Jaipur highway. It is famous for its magnificent Neemrana Fort Palace. It was built in 1464 AD, a palace from where Rajput Maharaja Prithvi Raj Chauhan III reigned. Neemrana Fort is now converted into one of Rajasthan's oldest heritage luxury hotels and is one of the most visited places on a short trip from Delhi.

Distance from Delhi: 121 km

Best Time: July to March

6 Neemrana Attractions

12. Haridwar, Uttarakhand

Known For : Ganga Aarti in Haridwar Har Ki Pauri Chandi Devi Temple

Haridwar, considered to be among the seven holiest cities in India, is a good place to visit on a short trip from Delhi. Dotted with temples, ashrams and narrow lanes across the city, it is a famous Hindu temple town where millions of devotees come to take a dip in the holy Ganges.

Distance from Delhi: 204 km

36 Haridwar Attractions

13. 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 that makes for an ideal peaceful holiday location, especially for a weekend getaway from Delhi.

Distance from Delhi: 295 km

Best Time: March - June; September - November

12 Kasauli Attractions

14. Bharatpur, Rajasthan

Known For : Bharatpur National Park Lohagarh Fort Banke Bihari Temple

Bharatpur is located in the Braj region of Rajasthan. Also known as Lohagarh, it is a part of the golden tourism triangle of Delhi, Jaipur and Agra. Bharatpur is famous for the Keoladeo National Park, which houses over 370 species of animals and birds.

Distance from Delhi: 201 km

Best Time: November to February

12 Bharatpur Attractions

15. Ranthambore, Rajasthan

Known For : Ranthambore Tiger Reserve Jeep Safari Ranthambore Ranthambhore Fort

This is one of the best tiger reserves of the country, known to have "friendly" tigers and chances of sighting one here is reasonably better than many other tiger reserves of India. Along with this Ranthambore has one of the richest flora and fauna.

Distance from Delhi: 402 km

Best Time: October to Apr

20 Ranthambore Attractions

16. Orchha, Madhya Pradesh

Known For : Jehangir Mahal, Orchha Fort Ram Raja Temple Raja Mahal, Orchha Fort

Orchha is a historical town located on the banks of river Betwa in Madhya Pradesh, known for its grand palaces, and intricately carved temples. Famously known as the city of palaces, it is world-renowned for the classic mural paintings, frescos and Chhatris (cenotaphs) that were constructed to commemorate the Bundela rulers. Distance from Delhi: 497 km

Distance from Delhi: 475 km

16 Orchha Attractions

17. Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh

Known For : Gwalior Fort Jai Vilas Palace Gujari Mahal (State Archaeological Museum)

A historic city founded by king Surajesan, Gwalior is galore with beautiful monuments, palaces and temples, giving this city a majestic charm that speaks volumes of its glorious past. It is a good place to visit on a short trip from Delhi, especially for history and architecture lovers.

Distance from Delhi: 344 km

34 Gwalior Attractions

18. Chail, Himachal Pradesh

Known For : Chail Palace Hotel Chail Cricket Ground Chail wildlife sanctuary

Chail is a quiet hill station close to Shimla, known for the world's highest cricket ground and the heritage hotel, Chail Palace, in the midst of pine and deodar trees. It is the quintessential destination for tourists looking for a calm and relaxed getaway from Delhi.

Distance from Delhi: 346 km

11 Chail Attractions

19. Bir Billing, Himachal Pradesh

Known For : Paragliding in Bir Billing Chokling Monastery Gunehar Waterfall

Bir Billing is a popular destination located in Joginder Nagar valley known for adventures sports such as paragliding , treks and also as the town for meditation . There is an influence of Tibetan culture due to the Tibetan community settlement in this town. Distance from Delhi: 461 km

Distance from Delhi: 468 km

Best Time: March - May; September - November

29 Bir Attractions

20. Almora, Uttarakhand

Known For : Zero Point Jageshwar Kasar Devi

Cradled in the wilderness of Himalayan ranges, the sprawling town of Almora shaped like a horse-shoe is a hill station that boasts of a pre-British heritage and an idyllic vibe. Distance from Delhi: 380 km

Distance from Delhi: 364 km

16 Almora Attractions

21. Jibhi, Himachal Pradesh

Often referred to as a mesmerising hamlet situated amidst the lush green forests and surrounded by variegated mountain, Jibhi is an offbeat place in Himachal Pradesh. The dense pine forests, tranquil freshwater lakes and pristine temples make this place worth visiting. Distance from Delhi: 462 km

22. Shoghi, Himachal Pradesh

Known For : Kandaghat Trekking in Shoghi Tara Devi Temple

While Shimla is being flooded by tourists every year, a serene, calm and epitome of beauty lies near it, waiting to be discovered. Shoghi, a small hill station just 13 Kms. from Shimla is abundant in natural scenic beauty and a large variety of flora and fauna. Distance from Delhi: 329 km

Distance from Delhi: 339 km

12 Shoghi Attractions

Fagu is a serene snow-clad hamlet in Himachal Pradesh. Being a lesser-known place, it is perfect to visit on a short trip from Delhi. Distance from Delhi: 360 km 

Distance from Delhi: 367 km

24. Sariska National Park, Alwar

The Sariska National Park, now known as The Sariska Tiger Reserve was once hunting preservation of The Maharaja of Alwar. The Reserve is known for its majestic Royal Bengal Tigers and is the first tiger reserve to relocate the Tigers (from Ranthambore) successfully.

Distance from Delhi: 212 km

Which of these short trips near Delhi have you picked for your 2 day or 3 days vacation? Short trips are often the best way to refresh yourself. So Delhites do not forget to make your upcoming holidays a cherishable one by visiting these amazing places.

This post was published by Harshitha

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India Tours & Trips

Immerse your senses with an Indian vacation package - tuck into traditional samosas, go colour crazy at the Holi Festival or bathe in the sacred waters of the Ganges. From the iconic temples of the Golden Triangle to the beaches and backwaters of Kerala , a tour of India will open your mind and soften your soul. Marvel at the architectural wonders of the Taj Mahal , play hide and seek with tigers on a Ranthambore safari adventure, hike amongst the striking mountains in Ladakh or set your sights on the Gateway of India in Mumbai, there's so much to see and do in this Land of Culture.

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Essential India (4 Star Hotels)

• €150 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Indian Getaway

The tour guide was great, very knowledgeable and accommodating. Some of the elements felt like a school trip but that’s maybe because I have travelled alone before and am not used to doing everything en mass. Javed was fantastic and no request was too small. I would recommend the tour and also Javed as a guide.

Golden Triangle

It was one of the best decisions we made to join a g adventures tour ,from start to finish everything was well organised. The guide Shaz was so helpful and knowledgable i it made the tour

India's Golden Triangle

This tour provided good insight into the history, culture and religion in India. For a first timer in India, the country was as intense and as wonderful as I expected. My guide Mohsin was calm, collected and informative- he gave us a lot of information into the history of Mughal empires, palaces, and Indian traditions. I went travelling by myself for the first time and felt really safe with Intrepid. I really enjoyed visiting Jaipur in particular and the experience of watching a Bollywood film. I would recommend this tour for anyone who wants an initial taste of India without the hassle of organising everything by themselves.

5 Days Private Golden Triangle India tour from New Delhi

The tour was amazing, we were very satisfyed! Before the trip, during the trip and also after trip the communication with Aahli was exellent. He replied very fast and fullfield all of our extra wishes. He also took time for having lunch with us in Agra. All 5Star Hotels were amazing, especially the Leela in Neu-Dehli. Danish was an amazing driver, he was always on time, very kind and we felt always safe with his driving skills, big thank you to Danish and Aahil! The tour guide in Jaipur was very motivated and shared a lot of information with us. He gave us enough time to see all the interessting places that we have visited. Without the agency we would not have seen so many places in such a short time. We highly recommend Taj Tour Trip!

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

Uncover India: High Deserts & Markets

A wonderful experience unlike anywhere we’ve been before. Our CEO Bhagwat was fantastic and went above and beyond to take care of us and make sure we had a great time.

India's Bestseller - 5 Day Golden Triangle - Delhi, Agra & Jaipur (Guaranteed Departure)

Our adventure in India was great thanks to our great driver Sita Ram. He was our point of reference as this company has several customer service people. Our guides were all very knowledgeable and we enjoyed every single site. Trip and everything. Hotels were fine 3 star hotels with the exception of the one in Delhi, (Ajanta) that hotel was more like a one star hotel. The one in Agra and Jaipur were great. We loved Phatepur Sikri , Amazing place ! and Ali the tour guide there was one of the most professional guides I’ve ever known . We really learned everything about the place . Overall experience was great! I would definitely use KK holidays again to tour India.

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India's Top Selling Golden Triangle India Tour w/ Meals and Sunrise Taj Mahal

Excellent trip with really good guides and amazing driver. Hotels were clean and comfortable. I will certainly book again with Swastik India.

Taj Mahal and Wildlife with Royal Stay at Castles

The tour went above and beyond my expectations. My driver and hotels were excellent.

Taj Mahal, Tiger and Pink City

The tour allows you to see lot of India in short time and gives you a great start to the country. The itinerary was very varied. Our driver was always happy, cheerful as well as professional. All the hotels were nice with a great variety of breakfast included. For me the trip was fantastic everything was extremely well organised and was the perfect mix of cultural immersion, nature and other activities. Overall very very happy.

Premium India

Sensational in every aspect. Firstly our tour leader Chandra was exceptional in his knowledge, approachability and care for all 12 of us. The tour was enlightening culturally, stimulating from the history perspective and enjoyable as the group melded really well. Thanks to all involved in putting g Premiun India together.

Colorful India with Taj Mahal & Rajasthan

Thank you for making our India holiday so special. Arun was great to communicate with and he was happy to adapt our holiday

Golden Triangle Tour With Ranthambore

All in all, an insanely amazing trip. First and foremost, a big shoutout to our driver who was always polite and attentive, demonstrating a very high level of driving skills in this crazy traffic. We felt safe throughout. The organization was also very good. Both the hotels and guides were very friendly, and everything was straightforward. We were among the lucky ones who had the chance to see three tigers, but we also knew not to be disappointed if it didn't happen as it's quite rare. The only criticism concerns the restaurants where you are "dumped" for lunch during long car rides, for example from Delhi to Jaipur. These places, in terms of cleanliness and food quality, border on outrageousness, and you feel ripped off.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Golden Triangle Tour with Varanasi

Very positive - we were well looked after and the company were responsive with any issues that were raised.

Golden Triangle Tour - 3 Days

The views were amazing had a great early morning at the Taj Mahal for sunrise. Our guide irfan was very knowledgeable. We appreciated all the information he gave us. He even modified our tour with what we wanted to see and do. Very very patient and knowledgeable! Thank you for the lovely tour......

What people love about India Tours

Very informative,a bit of a challenge ,had a great time.

Although I LOVED everything about this trip, I have to say that the experience was 10 times enhanced by our amazing CEO, Manvendra. He went above and beyond and truly made this the trip of a lifetime

Toll organisierte Rundreise von Delhi über Jaipur und Agra retour nach Delhi. Indien erlebt man in dieser Woche vielseitig und der Tour Guide sorgte nicht nur für eine einwandfreie Organisation sondern hatte haufenweise Details und Geschichten über die indische Kultur zu erzählen.

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• 30 Budget Trips In India For That Pocket-Friendly Escape In 2024

23 Mar 2023

We know the feeling when long weekends or holidays approach or when there is simply that itch to bunk college or work and take off with friends to obscure places. Are you feeling jealous of scrolling down any social media by looking at the vacation pictures of your friends or colleagues? There are some pocket-friendly places where you can spend your weekend and relax with your family. Plan for the budget trips in India which are popular and offbeat and will surely give you a mesmerizing experience. No worries if you just have a few thousand in your pocket for there is a long list of budget trips in India that you could opt for. From north to south and east to west, there is an extensive number of places that are just waiting to unravel. These budget locations are a crowd-pleaser and make the tiny escapes totally worthwhile. One cannot visit each and every place in the below list, but most of them will be quite convenient for almost all travel enthusiasts out there.

30 Places For Budget Trips In India In 2024

• Alleppey – The Venice Of The East
• Goa – The Land Of Beaches
• Pondicherry – The French Town
• Gokarna – The Less Crowded Goa
• Rishikesh – The Yoga Capital
• Darjeeling – The Land Of Thunderbolt
• McLeodganj – The Little Lhasa
• Sikkim – The Organic State
• Kanyakumari – The Southernmost Tip
• Hampi – The Forgotten Empire
• Nainital – The City Of Lakes
• Lonavala – The ‘Chikki’ Town
• Munnar – The Green Hill Town
• Udaipur – The White City
• Varanasi – The Oldest City
• Meghalaya – The Abode Of Clouds
• Ooty – The Queen Of Hills
• Shimla – The Iconic Hillstation
• Khajuraho – The Temple Town
• Jaipur – The Pink City
• Kasol – The Heaven’s Gateway
• Dehradun – The City Of Love
• Itanagar – A Peaceful Capital City
• Pushkar – The Land Of Camels
• Digha – The City Of Underwater World
• Kodaikanal – Princess Of Hill Stations
• Amritsar – Gateway To Punjab
• Jaisalmer – Land Of Rich Culture
• Savarkut, Maharashtra – Explore The Clean City
• Maval, Maharashtra – Experience The Perfect Getaway

1. Alleppey – The Venice Of The East

Image Source Alleppey, the Venice of the East, is famous for the verdant countryside, lagoons, and the waterways. It is the best place to cruise lazily around in the ever-present houseboats, sample the delicious coconut-laced seafood, and enjoy one of the cheapest solo trips in India . Alleppey happens to be one of the most beautiful destinations for low budget trips in India. Ideal Duration Of Stay: 2 Nights/3 Days Best Time To Visit: October To February Average Cost:

• Stay: INR 350 – INR 800 per night
• Food: INR 700 per meal.
• Houseboats: Start at INR 6000 per day for 1 BHK and includes three meals, so split it up with friends if you can.

Places To Visit In Alleppey:

• Alappuzha beach
• Vembanad lake
• Pathiramanal island

Things To Do In Alleppey:

• Stay in a houseboat
• Go for a night walk

Nearest Airport/Railway Station: Cochin International Airport (75 Km), Alappuzha Train Station Famous Dishes: Puttu, Kadala, Beef Roast What To Buy: Coir Items, Handicrafts

Must read: 24 Cheapest Places In India

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2. Goa – The Land Of Beaches

Image Source For those seeking some budget trips in India , Goa is the hot favorite of all; backpackers are no exception. Get lost on its beaches, Portuguese architecture, forts, local markets, and the palm tree-lined quaint villages. You can even hire a motorbike and explore on your own! There are plenty of pubs to chill out too. This beachy paradise is perfect for budget solo trips in India. Ideal Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days Best Time To Visit: November To March Average Cost:

• Train travel Mumbai to Madgaon and back: INR 450
• Stay: Decent accommodation and beach huts starts at INR 500/- per night

Places To Visit In Goa:

• Anjum beach

Things To Do In Goa:

• Watch the beautiful Dudhsagar falls
• Explore the forts
• Visit world heritage sites

Nearest Airport/Railway Station: Dabolim Airport/ Vasco Da Gama railway station, Margao railway station Famous Dishes: Goan fish curry, Bebinca, Pork Vindaloo, Fonna Kadi, Chicken Cafreal What To Buy: Cashew nuts, Spices, Feni, Painted Tiles

3. Pondicherry – The French Town

Image Source Why shell out thousands when you can get a French experience through some cheap trips in India? With low budget trips in India to Pondicherry, you can get the French flair right here in India. Walk the cobblestoned streets during the day and put up your feet at the innumerable cafes on the beach in the evenings. And yes, don’t forget to try out the French food around here. Ideal Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days Best Time To Visit: October To March Average Cost: 

• Bus travel from Chennai to Pondicherry and back: INR 500
• Stay: Comfortable cottage stay at INR 300 or budget hotels at INR 500
• Food: Try out some Indianized French cuisine starting at INR 200-300 for two

Places To Visit In Pondicherry:

• Paradise beach
• Aurobindo Ashram

Things To Do In Pondicherry:

• Cycling tour
• Shopping in Pondy bazaar

Nearest Airport/Railway Station: Chennai International Airport/ Puducherry Railway Station Famous Dishes: Crab Masala Fry, Mutton Rolls, Khowsuey, Parotas What To Buy: Textiles, Pottery, Tibetan Handicrafts, Aromatherapy Product

Suggested Read: 60 Best Hill Stations In India That You Must Explore At Least Once In Your Life

4. Gokarna – The Less Crowded Goa

Image Source Looking for some peace and tranquility in one of the low budget places to visit in India for 3 days ? Then, the Om Beach in Gokarna near Mangalore is one of the perfect 3 days trip places. You could try hiring some boats with the local fishermen to take you around the beaches in Gokarna. And if you start getting restless, there are a bunch of water activities you could go for. And what’s more? The Gokarna beaches still fall under the budget trips in India! Ideal Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days Best Time To Visit: June To August Average Cost: 

• Bangalore to Gokarna and back by bus: INR 800
• Goa to Gokarna and back by train: INR 90

Places To Visit In Gokarna:

• Mahabaleshwara temple
• Gokarna beach

Things To Do In Gokarna:

• Sunbathing on the beaches
• Camping near Gokarna beach

Nearest Airport/Railway Station: Dabolim Airport/Murdeshwar & Karwar Railway Station Famous Dishes: South Indian Cuisine, Prawn Pizza What To Buy: Brass Lamps, Kallu Sarkkare, Handicrafts

5. Rishikesh – The Yoga Capital

Image Source Looking for cheap solo trips in India ? Look no further than Rishikesh. The thrilling white-water-rafting, the splendid beach camps, and the exhilarating treks beckon the adventurer in you. A trip to Rishikesh tops the charts among the adventurous budget travel in India . You could also visit the breathtaking Valley of Flowers from here. Mind you, it’s a completely vegetarian and alcohol-free destination, but totally worth it! Ideal Duration: 1 Night/2 Days Best Time To Visit: Late September To Mid November Average Cost: 

• Travel to and from Delhi: INR 300
• Stay: INR 150 per night
• Food: INR 200/meal
• River rafting: INR 400 to INR 1300 per person
• Beach camping: INR 1600 per person (includes 1 Night stay, 3 meals and river rafting)

Places To Visit In Rishikesh:

• Lakshman Jhula
• Parmarth Niketan
• Triveni Ghat

Things To Do In Rishikesh:

• River rafting
• Bungee jumping
• Camping and bonfire

Nearest Airport/Railway Station: Jolly Grant Airport/Dehradun Railway Station Famous Dishes: Aloo Puri, Chole Bhature, Pani Puri What To Buy: Glass Bangles, Carved Stone Idols, Pickles, Ayurveda Medicines

Suggested Read: 49 Beautiful Places To Visit In North India

6. Darjeeling – The Land Of Thunderbolt

Image Source Chugging up to Darjeeling from New Jalpaiguri or Siliguri is a once in a lifetime experience. And what makes it better is that it is still one of the best budget-friendly trips in India . Once up in the hills, just take in the salubrious air, sip the Darjeeling tea, rise early and gaze at the sunrise at Tiger hills and get ready to be mesmerized by the magnificent Kanchenjunga. And the best part is, one can plan a great start to the New Year as Darjeeling is a great escape for those who are planning for budget trips in India in January . Ideal Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days Best Time To Visit: March To May and October-November Average Cost: 

• Travel from Kolkata to Siliguri or New Jalpaiguri by bus and back: INR 490
• Toy train up to Darjeeling from NJP: INR 250
• Jeep ride from NJP to Darjeeling : INR 150/person
• Stay: INR 800/- per night [twin-sharing basis]
• Food: INR 300 for two

Places To Visit In Darjeeling:

• Ghum Monastery
• Peace Pagoda
• Tea Estates

Things To Do In Darjeeling:

• Go river rafting in Teesta
• Trekking in Sandakphu
• Take a ride in toy train

Nearest Airport/Railway Station: Bagdogra Airport/ New Jalpaiguri Railway Station Famous Dishes: Thukpa, The Naga Cuisine, Chaang, Momos What To Buy: Hand Knitted Items, Tea, Handicrafts

7. McLeodganj – The Little Lhasa

Image Source A colorful hill station, Dharamsala is a mini-Tibet and one of the most beautiful destinations for budget trips in India . The dual cities of Dharamsala and McLeodganj are lined with numerous monasteries and temples to visit and the views of the hills and valleys are nothing short of magical. For those who love treks, be sure to try Triund trek and camp. Plan one of the best of budget trips in India in January and get to witness snow-clad mountains of the Dhauladar Ranges on top of Triund. So, if you are looking for some adventurous cheap trips in India, you sure can count on Dharamsala and McLeodganj for they are some of the best places for 3 days trip. Ideal Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days Best Time To Visit: October To February Average Cost

• Delhi to McLeodganj and back: INR 1000
• Stay: INR 130/night – INR 500/night
• Food: Tibetan and Chinese cuisine at little cafes @INR 100 – 200 for two

Places To Visit In Mcleodgunj:

• Naddi view point
• St John In The Wilderness

Things To Do In Mcleodgunj:

• Boat riding
• Shop at local markets

Nearest Airport/Railway Station: Gaggal (30 km)/Kangra Mandir railway station Famous Dishes: Momos, Tibetan Cuisine What To Buy: Woolen Items, Incense Sticks, Singing Bowls, Colorful Bags

Suggested Read: Top Things To Do In Dharamshala

8. Sikkim – The Organic State

Image Source Sikkim is one of the loveliest and cheapest holiday destinations in India. A great escape for those planning their budget trips in India in February , Sikkim serves as the best place for families, friends, and couples alike. Nothing beats its wonderful climate, scenic view of the Himalayas, picturesque treks, strong Tibetan Buddhist culture, and yummy local food. And all this comes well in your budget. Ideal Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days Best Time To Visit: March and May, October and Mid-December Average Cost

• Kolkata to Siliguri (Train) : INR 185 one side
• Siliguri to Gangtok (Bus): INR 165 one side
• Stay: Budget hotels are available at INR 600 up, but there are dorms too for INR 120 or single rooms for INR 250
• Food: Plenty of cheap places around, momos being the specialty here: INR 100 up per meal

Places To Visit In Sikkim:

Things To Do In Sikkim:

• Go for a yak ride
• Paragliding in Gangtok

Nearest Airport/Railway Station: Bagdogra Airport/ New Jalpaiguri Railway Station Famous Dishes: Gundruk Soup, Sinki Soup, Thukpa, Yak Cheese What To Buy: Woolen Carpets, Choosees, Tea, Prayer Flags

9. Kanyakumari – The Southernmost Tip

Image Source Being the tip of the Indian mainland itself makes Kanyakumari enticing. The confluence of the Arabian Sea, the Bay of Bengal, and the Indian Ocean — behold it, to believe it! A must-see is the Vivekananda Rock Memorial and the breathtaking sunrise and sunset views here. This destination is certainly proving to be one of the best budget trips in South India. Ideal Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days Best Time To Visit: October To March Average Cost: 

• Bus fare Trivandrum to Kanyakumari and back: INR 500
• Train one way fare: INR 180
• Stay: INR 800 / night
• Food: INR 200 per meal

Places To Visit In Kanyakumari :

• Vivekananda rock memorial
• Thiruvalluvar statue
• Our Lado Ransom Church

Things To Do In Kanyakumari:

• Bathe at Triveni Sangam
• Watch the beautiful sunset
• Seek blessings from Goddess Kanyakumari

Nearest Airport/Railway Station: Trivandrum International Airport/Kanyakumari Railway Junction Famous Dishes: Kothu, Banana Chips, Pazha Sarbath, Aval What To Buy: Shells, Handloom Saris

Suggested Read: 40 Things To Do In Pondicherry

10. Hampi – The Forgotten Empire

Image Source Not too cold, and not too hot, Hampi is a great choice in case you are planning for budget trips in India in February. This is one fantastic treat for history lovers and one of the most value for money and budget travel in India . Relive the Vijayanagar history just wandering about Hampi or maybe perch on the omnipresent huge boulders to survey the land around you. You could even catch the vibrant Hampi Utsav if you happen to visit in the first week of November. Ideal Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days Best Time To Visit: October To February Average Cost: 

• Train travel from Bangalore to Hospet and back: INR 500
• Hospet to Hampi: INR 100

Places To Visit In Hampi:

• Virupaksha temple
• Matanga hill
• Hemakuta hill temple

Things To Do In Hampi:

• Ride a bike to the hippie side of Hampi
• Cliff jumping
• Relax at Lotus Mahal

Nearest Airport/Railway Station: Hubli Airport (143 km)/Hospet Railway Station (12 Km) Famous Dishes: South Indian Cuisine like dosa, Idly What To Buy: Brass Items, Hippie Clothes, Funky Jewellery, Leather Crafts

11. Nainital – The City Of Lakes

Image Source Being a hill station, Nainital is a good option for budget trips in India in December . Undoubtedly, one of the top hilly budget tourist places in India , Nainital is known for its main attraction – the Naini Lake & the beautiful hills that surround it. In addition to that, it also happens to be one of the best places to plan budget trips in India for couples . The rope-way to Snow view to get a dekko at the mighty Himalayas is a must-do here. Ideal Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days Best Time To Visit: March To June Average Cost: 

• State transport buses, Delhi to Nainital (roundtrip): INR 368
• Private Volvo bus (roundtrip): INR 800
• Stay: Spoilt for choices here, budget stay starts at as low as INR 150/night.
• Food: Lot of Punjabi food around, meals can start from INR 200 for two
• Boating: INR 150/hr for paddle boat
• Ropeway: INR 150 (roundtrip)/person

Places To Visit In Nainital:

• Nainital lake
• GB Pant zoo

Things To Do In Nainital:

• Boating at Naini lake
• Pray at Naini Devi temple
• Ride in Nainital ropeway

Nearest Airport/Railway Station: Pantnagar Airport/Kathgodam Railway Station Famous Dishes: Baadi, Bhatt ki Churkani, Aloo ke Gutke What To Buy: Pine Cone decorations, Aroma candles, Woollens

Suggested Read: 15 Romantic Budget Resorts In India

12. Lonavala – The ‘Chikki’ Town

Image Source It can’t get better than this for a quick getaway from Mumbai. Plenty of hikes, numerous waterfalls in the monsoons and the delicious chocolate fudge and chikki promises a memorable experience. There are exciting treks to try to a number of forts around Lonavala. Yes, it does not come for free. But it is still one of the best budget travel destinations in India, especially if you hail from Mumbai. Ideal Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days Best Time To Visit: October To May Average Cost: 

• Train from Mumbai to Lonavala: INR 122 (roundtrip)
• Buses from Mumbai to Lonavala: INR 250 one way
• Stay: There are ashrams and dharamshalas @INR 400/night and budget hotels @INR 600 up
• Food: Plenty of small restaurants and roadside cafes; a good meal will come for approx. INR 200

Places To Visit In Lonavala:

• Lonavala lake
• Della Adventure park

Things To Do In Lonavala:

• Witness views from Tiger’s leap
• Watch the sunset

Nearest Airport/Railway Station: Pune Domestic Airport/ Lonavala railway station Famous Dishes: Pitla Bhakri, Misal Pav, Masala Pav, Vada Pav What To Buy: Fresh Chikki, Handcrafted Mementos, Classic Keychains

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13. Munnar – The Green Hill Town

Image Source What can get better than the fresh air, refreshing aroma of tea plantations, and the reviving hills of Munnar for those who are planning budget trips in India for couples ? Travel via Cochin, apart from the spectacular scenic drive, you could even enjoy a visit to the Elephant training Centre on the way. The tea gardens of Munnar are its hallmark, but one can even try the Eravikulam National Park or even some early morning treks to Rajmala hills. Ideal Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days Best Time To Visit: September To March Average Cost

• Buses from Ernakulam or Cochin and back: INR 180 – INR300
• Stay: Cottages start at INR 600
• Food: INR 100 per meal

Places To Visit In Munnar:

• Atukkad Waterfalls
• Top Station

Things To Do In Munnar:

• Treehouse stay
• Tea Estate tours
• Camping and trekking at Echo point

Nearest Airport/Railway Station: Cochin International Airport (75 Km), Ernakulam Railway Station Famous Dishes: Appam with stew, Kerala Prawn Curry, Beef Fry, and Malabar Parotta What To Buy: Tea, Cashews, homemade chocolates, and Spices

Suggested Read: 43 Famous Historical Places In India

14. Udaipur – The White City

Image Source City of Lakes or the White City, call it what you may, Udaipur is without a doubt one of the most exotic cities in India. If you are planning a short trip, Udaipur is the best place for 3-5 days trip in India. Once you are done gazing at the magnificent palaces and lakes, take a peek at some rare automobiles at the Vintage car museum. Do sample the delicious Dal Baati Choorma and Jalebi along the way. Ideal Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days Best Time To Visit: September To March Average Cost: 

• Delhi to Udaipur (State transport bus) : INR 650
• Stay: Starts at INR 400/night for shared dormitories
• Food: Street food is a must-try: INR 50 /person

Places To Visit In Udaipur:

• Lake Pichola
• City Palace
• Sajjangarh Palace

Things To Do In Udaipur:

• Sunset boat cruise
• Do some nature photography
• Enjoy a ropeway ride

Nearest Airport/Railway Station: Maharana Pratap Airport/ Udaipur Railway Station Famous Dishes: Dal Baati Choorma, Pyaaz Kachori, Mirchi Bada What To Buy: Ethnic sarees, Paintings, and sculptures, Authentic jewelry, Wall Hangings

15. Varanasi – The Oldest City

Image Source Looking forward to plan budget friendly trips in India ? Varanasi can prove to be a great pick to culture vultures and all travelers alike. A cultural hotspot, Banaras or Varanasi, is situated on the banks of River Ganges. It is one of the cheap places to visit in India . The Ganga ghats are sites to experience the cultural flavor of India. So get on that boat ride and take in the most incredible sights from laundry to religious rituals. Don’t miss out on the Banarasi thandai and Banarasi paan! Ideal Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days Best Time To Visit: November To February Average Cost: 

• Delhi to Varanasi and back (train): INR 652
• Stay: INR 200/night
• Food: Street food starts at INR 30 for two, Local food at INR 150 for two
• Boat ride on the Ganges: INR 250/hour

Places To Visit In Varanasi:

• Kashi Vishwanath temple
• Sankat Mocha Hanuman temple

Things To Do In Varanasi:

• Witness evening Aarti ceremony
• Sightseeing tour of Sarnath
• Shopping in local market

Nearest Airport/Railway Station: Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport/Varanasi Railway Station Famous Dishes: Chena Dahi Vada, Malaiyyo, Chura Matar, Baati Chokha What To Buy: Banarasi Silk Sarees, Gulabi Minakari, Wooden Toys

Suggested Read: 12 Best Things To Do In Varanasi

16. Meghalaya – The Abode Of Clouds

Image Source This “Abode of the Clouds” is one of the most unusual states in the country. You will see “natural” living bridges made from roots of ancient trees, get pleasantly drenched in world’s wettest place, Cherrapunjee, or even get up at 4 in the morning for some sumptuous local breakfast. Ideal Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days Best Time To Visit: October To June Average Cost: 

• Bus travel from Guwahati to Shillong and back: INR 60 – INR 200
• Stay: INR 600 per night
• Food: Starts at INR 60 per meal

Places To Visit In Meghalaya :

• Cherrapunji

Things To Do In Meghalaya :

• Trek at Umden village
• Kayaking in Umiam lake

Nearest Airport/Railway Station: Shillong Airport/Guwahati Railway Station Famous Dishes: Jodoh, Nakham Bitchi, Pumaloi, Bamboo Shoots What To Buy: Artefacts made of Bamboo and Cane, Cotton and Silk Products

17. Ooty – The Queen Of Hills (South)

Image Source The Queen of Nilgiris, Ooty happens to be one of the best hill stations in South India for those planning for budget friendly trips in India . Ooty is one of the perfect destinations for budget trips in South India . A trip to Ooty, one of the best hill stations in South India, is amongst the best budget trips in India that you could ask for. It is also one of the cheap places to visit in India . The senses exult here in the midst of the exotic botanical gardens, Rose garden, verdant hills, historical buildings, tea plantations and of course, homemade chocolates. Ideal Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days Best Time To Visit: October To June Average Cost: 

• Chennai to Ooty and back (bus) – INR 1400
• Stay: Starts at INR 300
• Food: Starts at as low as INR 50 for two

Places To Visit In Ooty :

• Nilgiri Mountain Railway
• Emerald lake

Things To Do In Ooty:

• Jungle camping
• Kotagiri trek

Nearest Airport/Railway Station: Coimbatore International Airport/Mettupalyam Railway Station Famous Dishes: Kebabs, Chinese food, Chocolates and Momos What To Buy: Authentic Spices, Leather Products, Ornaments, Tea

Suggested Read: 19 Places To Visit Near Shillong

18. Shimla – The Iconic Hillstation

Shimla is one of the best hillstations for budget tours in India . The capital of Himachal Pradesh, Shimla is a lovely spot if you are looking for cheap holiday destinations in India. The hill station not only has many sightseeing attractions, but also mesmerizes with its scenic charm. Even if you will walk into a decent restaurant the price range would be inexpensive. There also are various budget hotels and resorts in Shimla that will make your budget escape unforgettable. If you are looking for low budget tourist places in India , then you can consider Shimla. If you’re thinking of a snow-laden escape, meandering past valleys sprinkled in white, then Shimla makes for dreamy winter road trips in India ! Ideal Duration Of Stay: 2 Nights/3 Days Best Time To Visit: November To February Average Cost: 

• Stay: INR 700 – INR 1500 per night
• Food: INR 150 per meal.

Places To Visit In Shimla:

Things To Do In Shimla :

• Nature camping
• Treehouse Stay

Nearest Airport/Railway Station: Jabbarhatti Airport/Shimla Railway Station Famous Dishes: Meethe Chawal, Khoru, Patore, Chaa Gosht What To Buy: Himachali Hats, Local Handicrafts, Traditional Jewelry, Wooden Items

19. Khajuraho – The Temple Town

Image Source Known across the world for its erotic art sculpture outside the historic temples, Khajuraho happens to be an ideal choice if you want to tour top low budget tourist places in India. This destination is made budget-friendly primarily through hostels like Zostel and many budget stays. It is one of the cheap holiday destinations in India that you can explore. Ideal Duration Of Stay: 1 Night/2 Days Best Time To Visit: October To February Average Cost: 

• Stay: INR 500– INR 1500 per night

Places To Visit In Khajuraho:

• Kandariya Mahadev temple
• Chaturbhuj temple
• Devi Jagdambi temple

Things To Do In Khajuraho :

• Attend the light and sound show

Nearest Airport/Railway Station: Khajuraho Airport/ Mahoba railway station Famous Dishes: Rogan Josh, Mutton Kebabs, Chicken Biryani, Sabudana Khichdi What To Buy: Handloom items, Miniature stone replicas, jewelry, silverware, and brassware Suggested Read: 10 Ultimate Destinations For Boat And Cruise Vacations In India

20. Jaipur – The Pink City

Jaipur, the Pink City is the capital of Rajasthan . The City is part of the famous Golden Triangle Tour of India (Including Delhi and Agra). Jaipur is a perfect place for a 2-3 days trip in India . This tour is loved majorly by foreign travelers visiting India to catch a glimpse of its incredible heritage. Hence, with a booming tourism scenario comes a myriad of choices for the budget travelers as well. Right from the street food to quirky hostel stays, this has to be in your list of short trips in India on budget. Ideal Duration Of Stay: 2 Night/3 Days Best Time To Visit: October To March Average Cost

Places To Visit In Jaipur

• Amber Palace

Things To Do In Jaipur

• Nahargarh fort cycling
• Village jeep safari
• Shopping Nearest Airport/Railway Station: Sanganer Airport/ Jaipur Railway Station Famous Dishes: Laal Mans, Daal Baluchi, Pyaz Kachori, Dal Batti What To Buy: Leheriya Saree, Bandhani Dupatta, Jewelry, Blue Pottery

21. Kasol – The Heaven’s Gateway

Kasol is a village town in the district of Kullu in Himachal Pradesh. Situated on the banks of the Parvati River, this hamlet has a couple of cheap stay options in the form of camps. The town has local eating points and amazing cafes which serve delicious food. There is a German bakery too in the center of this little hamlet which serves some of the best bakery items you would have ever tasted. The scenic views and delectable food options make it one of the best places in India for a 3 days trip. Ideal Duration Of Stay: 2 Night/3 Days Best Time To Visit: April, May, October and November Average Cost

• Food: INR 300 per meal
• Stay: INR 350 for a triple sharing tent

Places To Visit In Kasol :

• Kheerganga trek
• Parvati river

Things To Do In Kasol :

Nearest Airport/Railway Station: Bhuntar Airport/ Joginder Nagar Railway Station Famous Dishes: Falafel and Tabbouleh, Momos, Egg Parantha What To Buy: Himachali Caps, Dreamcatchers, Handicrafts. Chilham

Suggested Read: 12 Resorts In Kasol

22. Dehradun – The City Of Love

Dehradun, the capital city of Uttarakhand is a beautiful valley with scenic mountain views. The city often gets overlooked due to the famous cities close by but it is one amazing place that can be explored on a 3-4 days trip in India with shoestring budget. The city has cafes with splendid vistas where one can enjoy meals with a view and a number of tourist attractions like the FRI, IMA, and many more. Ideal Duration Of Stay: 2 Night/3 Days Best Time To Visit: March To June Average cost

• Food: INR 400 per meal

Places To Visit In Dehradun :

• Robber’s cave
• Sahastradhara
• Tapkeshwar Temple

Things To Do In Dehradun :

• Paragliding
• Shopping in the Tibetan market

Nearest Airport/Railway Station: Jolly Grant Airport/ Dehradun Railway Station Famous Dishes: Kandalee ka Saag, Gahat ki Daal, Aloo ke Gutke, Kaafli and Gulgula What To Buy: Brassware, Pashmina, Spices, and Local produce

23. Itanagar – A Peaceful Capital City

Image Source Itanagar in the Northeast of India is the capital of Arunachal Pradesh. Situated in the foothills of the mighty Himalayas, the city proudly homes the medieval Ita Fort. Another major attraction in Itanagar is the Jawaharlal Nehru State Museum, which features textiles and handicrafts. There is also a unique yellow-roofed Buddhist temple, which was consecrated by Dalai Lama. The lush green hills, the gushing streams and a very peaceful environment, is what Itanagar is all about. Relax by spending some time at the Geker Sinying also known as the Ganga Lake, which is forest and orchids. This enchanting destination is one of the budget-friendly places to visit in India that offers a satisfying getaway with its unique highlights. Ideal Duration Of Stay: 2 Night/3 Days Best Time To Visit: October To April Average Cost

• Food: INR 150 per meal
• Stay: INR 1500

Places To Visit In Itanagar:

• Namdapha National Park

Things To Do In Itanagar:

• Witness wildlife at Itanagar wildlife sanctuary
• Angling in Itanagar

Nearest Airport/Railway Station: Lilabari Airport/ Harmuti Railway Station Famous Dishes: Momos, Thukpa, Brown Bread What To Buy: Handicraft Items, Thangkas, Wood Carvings, Shawls

Suggested Read: 16 Most Beautiful Villages In India That You Must Visit

24. Pushkar – The Land Of Camels

Image Source Pushkar is among the famous places to visit for 3 days in India, a revered town in Rajasthan on the border of the Thar Desert. Set at the Pushkar Lake, a Hindu pilgrimage site having 52 ghats meant for sacred bathing. The town is studded with numerous temples one of which is Jagatpita Brahma Mandir, dedicated to Lord Brahma, the god of creation. The temple’s origin dates back to the 14th century. Pushkar is also famous for camel rides and different kinds of shakes. The accommodation facility is available for every budget and the food is cheap. Also, there are various adventure activities that you can enjoy at Pushkar. All these things make Pushkar one of the best places for a 3 days trip in India. Ideal Duration Of Stay: 2 Night/3 Days Best Time To Visit: November To March Average cost

• Stay: INR 500 – 1500

Places To Visit In Pushkar :

• Pushkar lake
• Varaha temple
• Gayatri Mata Mandir

Things To Do In Pushkar :

• Food walk tour

Nearest Airport/Railway Station: Sanganer Airport/Ajmer Junction Famous Dishes: Poha, Kachori, Samosa, Dal Batti Churma, Falafel What To Buy: Handicraft Items, Silver articles, Rose products

25. Digha – The City Of Underwater World

Image Source This is a town in the state of West Bengal, which is known for its marine life and is best for budget solo trip in India. Digha is renowned as the resort beach town in West Bengal and is a must-visit place in the state if you are looking for a budget trip. Those looking for a peaceful travel experience, this beach town is unexplored and is therefore an ideal place to visit for 3 days in India. Ideal Duration Of Stay: 2 Nights/3 days Best Time To Visit: October To February Average cost

• Train from Howrah to Digha: INR 150/-

Places To Visit In Digha:

• Digha beach
• Amaravati park
• Marine Station

Things To Do In Digha:

• Take a stroll in the park
• Sunbathing on the beach
• Witness the fishes in the aquarium

Nearest Airport/Railway Station: Kolkata Airport/ Howrah Railway Station Famous Dishes: Pomfret, Rohu, Bhetki, Fried Fish, Tiger Prawns What To Buy: Jute Products, Handicraft showpieces

Suggested Read: Jaipur In March

26. Kodaikanal – Princess Of Hill Stations

One of the most famous honeymoon destinations in India, Kodaikanal is also the cheapest and the loveliest. The beautiful hill town has a wonderful climate, gorgeous lakes and valleys, snow-covered mountains, and more. Tourists are attracted to this place as it offers an ideal getaway for a 3 days trip in India from busy city life. You get a chance to connect with nature and stroll through the forests. Ideal Duration Of Stay: 1 Night/2 Days Best Time To Visit: October To March Average Cost

• Stay: INR 500 – INR 700
• Food: INR 150 to INR 200 per meal

Places To Visit In Kodaikanal:

• Dolphin’s nose rock
• Kodaikanal lake
• Silver Cascade falls

Things To Do In Kodaikanal :

• Walk at Coaker’s walk
• Trek to topmost point
• Boating in Kodaikanal lake

Nearest Airport/Railway Station: Madurai Airport/Kodai Railway Station Famous Dishes: Thukpa, Momos, Soupy Noodles What To Buy: Eucalyptus Oil, Chocolate Factory, Spices, Natural Oils, Kodai Cheese

27. Amritsar – Gateway To Punjab

Image Source Amritsar is one of the cheap places to visit in India . You must have heard about the famous Golden Temple, believe us, it is even more beautiful and peaceful in real life. For a budget visit, you can eat at the langar provided by the temple which is delicious as well. It also offers cheap accommodation options. For a tranquil trip, you should visit Amritsar. This prominent city is the best place for 4 days trip in India that will make your vacation an unforgettable one. Ideal Duration: 2 nights/3days Best Time To Visit: November To March Average cost: Stay: INR 830 onwards Food: INR 500 for two Places To Visit In Amritsar:

• Golden Temple
• Jallianwala Bagh
• Durgiana Temple

Things To Do In Amritsar:

• Eating street food
• Bird-watching

Nearest Airport/Railway Station: Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport/ Amritsar Railway Station Famous Dishes: Amritsari Kulchas, Chole Puri Pinni, Amritsari Fish Tikka What To Buy: Shawls, Pakistani Jutti, Phulkari Embroidered work textiles

Suggested Read: 10 Richest Cities In India

28. Jaisalmer – Land Of Rich Culture

Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons Disclaimer: The image is for representation purposes only. One of the pleasant places to visit for 4 days in India is Jaisalmer which you must surely add to your itinerary while planning for your next vacation. Jaisalmer is one of the popular places in Rajasthan where you will get to witness marvelous forts and temples. Jaisalmer has a low cost of accommodation, affordable price for food, and low train fares. Ideal Duration Of Stay: 2 days/ 3 nights Best Time To Visit: November to March Average Cost: Stay: INR 500/- to INR 1000/- per day Food: INR 200/- to INR 600/- per day Train: INR 440/- Places To Visit In Jaisalmer: Jaisalmer fort, Jaisalmer government museum, Mandir palace, Jain temples of Jaisalmer. Things To Do In Alleppey: Visit forts and temples Nearest Airport/Railway Station: 7 min via Gadisar road Famous Dishes: Mutton saag, Gatte ki sabzi What To Buy: Mirror work embroidery products, camel leather products

29. Savarkut, Maharashtra – Explore The Clean City

Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons Disclaimer: The image is for representation purposes only. Planning for some low budget trips in India ? Savarkut in Maharashtra is one of the cheap places to visit and is one of the peaceful places. Savarkut is one of the cleanest places where you can opt for adventurous activities like water rafting, rappelling, kayaking and others. Ideal Duration Of Stay: 2 days/3 nights Best Time To Visit: December to February Average Cost: Stay: 2000 INR to 3000 INR Food: 1000 INR to 2000 INR Places To Visit In Savarkut: Savarkut village, Kolad, Igatpuri Things To Do In Savarkut: Kayaking, rafting Nearest Airport/Railway Station: Kankavali Railway Station Famous Dishes: Popti What To Buy: Essentials made from organic cotton

Suggested Read: 25 Paradisaical Honeymoon Places In India In March!

30. Maval, Maharashtra- Experience The Perfect Getaway

Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons Looking out for cheap tour packages in India? Maval in Maharashtra is one of the places where you can spend your weekend and the best thing about the place is the budget-friendly price. It is a perfect getaway from Mumbai as the place is just 87 km from Mumbai. Ideal Duration Of Stay: 2 days/3 nights Best Time To Visit: Anytime of the year Average Cost: Stay: 1000 INR to 3000 INR Food: 500 INR to 1000 INR Places To Visit In Savarkut: Bhaja falls, Takve lakes Things To Do In Savarkut: Camping and water sports Nearest Airport/Railway Station: At a distance of 3.98 km Famous Dishes: Eastern Indian cuisine, street food What To Buy: Paithani and himroo sarees.

Further Read: 31 Best Places to Visit in August in India

So whether you’re looking for 2 days trip in India or a month-long vacation, this list of budget trips in India will come in handy. So, pull those lazy buddies out, pack your bags and go for some amazing budget holidays in India . For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer please click here .

Frequently Asked Questions About Budget Trips in India

Which are some of the offbeat destinations to plan budget trips in India?

Amidst an array of awe-inspiring destinations in India, there are some offbeat destinations which can easily be planned for an ultimate budget trip. Some of these destinations are: 1. Digha - West Bengal 2. Savarkut - Maharashtra 3. Maval - Maharashtra 4. Hampi

What are some of the best tips to keep in mind while planning budget trips in India?

If you are planning a budget trip in India, make sure to go through the following tips. These tips would certainly come in handy while planning your budget trip and will allow you to have a seamless vacation. Check them out: 1. Research thoroughly - Make sure you research in depth about your destination. Research about the best budget hotels, pocket-friendly restaurants, and transportation options. 2. Travel during off-season - If you intend to have a vacation that is easy on your pockets, it is vital to travel during off-season, when the demand is less and prices are not inflated. 3. Travel in a group to share costs related to accommodation and transportation. 4. Travel to offbeat places in the country. Places that are already very popular amongst tourists would naturally cost you more. It is wise to travel to unexplored places and save some bucks! 5. Find accommodation in homestays. Homestays are relatively cheaper than hotels. You can also look for accommodation in budget-friendly hostels. 6. Travel via public transport instead of taxi/cab. Keeping these tips in mind would surely aid you while planning your ideal budget trip in India.

Which destinations in India can be explored at a very low budget?

There are some incredible places in India that can be explored at a very low budget. Some of them are: 1. Pushkar 2. Ooty 3. Lonavala 4. Nainital 5. Rishikesh 6. Hampi

Which place is best to travel for 2-3 days in India?

The best place for a 2-3 days trip in India would depend on your location. If you are located in North Delhi, then Shimla and Jaipur would be a good choice. For people living in South India, Mysore and Coorg must be on the list. For West India, head to Alibaug or Mahabaleshwar. Northeast Indians can head to Pelling or Darjeeling. And East Indians would love to visit Sunderbans or Puri.

What is the best place to visit in South India with a low budget for a 3 to 4 days tour?

Hampi, Coorg, and Ooty are some of the best places to visit in South India if you are a budget traveler.

Which is the cheapest city in India?

Kolkata, Chennai and Bangalore are arguably the cheapest cities in India. It is affordable for a majority of Indian citizens to rent out a place in these metro cities. Also, the dining options here are pretty cheap compared to other metro cities.

Which Indian city is costly?

Mumbai is the most expensive city in India. The city is better known as the home of Bollywood, the city of dreams, and the economic capital of India. If you’re staying in Mumbai, your daily budget will exceed INR 500-1,000.

How can I travel cheaply in India?

If you plan to travel cheaply in India, you can live for free at an ashram in Pondicherry, drink at shacks in Goa that serve vodka shots for INR 60 per glass, travel by state-owned buses in Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh, and prefer staying at homestays.

How much does a meal cost in India?

A meal in India costs INR 100 at street joints, INR 250-500 at medium-level restaurants, and over INR 1,000 at upscale restaurants. Make sure you taste the local street food while you’re in India. The flavor and the aroma of Indian cuisine are distinct and usually hits all your senses.

Which is the cheapest country to visit from India?

There are various countries that you can consider visiting from India on a low budget. Some of them have been listed below: 1. Malaysia 2. Sri Lanka 3. Bhutan 4. Nepal 5. Thailand 6. Laos 7. Singapore

Trip to Sri Lanka at Rs 13,500/-

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Short Trips in India – 1 to 3 Days Budget Tours You should not Miss

1 day tours of india – the most popular 6 plans, 1. delhi day tour, 2. varanasi day tour with ganges river cruise, 3. short trip to taj mahal in agra, 4. day trip to pink city jaipur, 5. mumbai day tour.

Mumbai has not only Hindu temples, but also many mosques and Christian and Catholic churches, which makes the city full of strong religious flavor. During the India short tour package to Mumbai, you should not miss Mumbai's landmark building, the Gateway of India . Its appearance resembles the Triumphal Arch in France. It is currently used to receive important guests and has become one of the important tourist attractions in India. In addition, Ajanta Caves , Beach Avenue, Elephanta Caves , Mani Bhavan , National Gallery of Modern Art and Jehangir Art Gallery are also worth visiting.

6. Jodhpur Day Tour with Camel Safari

Jodhpur is located on the edge of the Thar Desert, so tourists could experience camel riding in Jodhpur. The city is famous for its small blue houses. It is the blue city of India. The most important building in the city is the magnificent Meherangarh Fort , which stands at the top of a steep mountain in the center of the city. You can clearly see the intersection of the old city and the new city here. The rock in front of Meherangarh Fort is an excellent place to watch the sunrise of Jodhpur.

See more about Sam Sand Dunes & Camel Safari in Jaisalmer

2 Days Short Trips in India – Best 2 Plans

Plan a: 2 days old delhi & new delhi city tour, plan b: 2 days short trip from delhi to agra & jaipur, 3 days short trips in india – travel the golden triangle, day 1: delhi - agra, day 2: agra - jaipur, day 3: jaipur – delhi.

3 Days Kolkata Tour and Volunteering at the Mother House

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Top 30 places that should be in your india travel itinerary.

The landscape of India provides for an infinite number of holiday destinations in India- from scenic locations to sites soaked in history, from cities bustling with chaos and confusion to laid-back and relaxed stays, India is truly diverse. Amidst this huge list of vacation spots, choosing the perfect location for your next trip can be daunting. Well! We are here to relieve you of this dilemma as we present to you the list of top 30 destinations in India for all kinds of travelers, whether you like quiet and serene mountains or small towns with their hustle and bustle. Read along to find the perfect travel destination for your next vacation.

List of 30 Best Places to Visit in India

• Rann of Kutch
• Spiti Valley
• Ranthambore
• Jim Corbett National Park

Check out: Get the Best Deals on India Tour Packages

Kashmir:  For its Captivating Natural Beauty

One of the most incredible places in India, Kashmir is known for its natural beauty and is thus, rightly called Heaven on Earth. With its picturesque lakes , lush fruit orchards, verdant meadows, pines and deodars forests, all enclosed with mountains of Himalayan and Pir-Panjal ranges – Kashmir seems to have directly made its way right out from a postcard.

The beautiful Kashmir Valley is home to many destinations ideal for nature lovers, family vacationers, honeymooners, and even a group of friends. Along with great sightseeing opportunities, it offers adventure activities like trekking , skiing, and river rafting, recreational activities like fishing & angling, and even spa & wellness. Shopaholics and food lovers can also have their share of enjoyment as Kashmir spoils them with many options.

Top Places to Visit in Kashmir

• Aru & Betaab Valley
• Gurez Valley

Top Things to Do in Kashmir

• Boating in Dal Lake, Srinagar
• Skiing in Gulmarg
• Angling & Fishing in Pahalgam
• White Water River Rafting in Pahalgam and Sonmarg
• Shopping for Leather Items, Pashmina Shawls, and Traditional Kashmiri Handicraft
• Trying Wazwan (traditional dishes)

Check out: Best of Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Packages

Ladakh: For its Unmatched Adventure Options

The land of high mountain passes , barren mountains, alpine lakes & meadows, enchanting valleys and ancient colourful Buddhist monasteries , Ladakh is one of the must-visit destinations in India. It is ideal for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Ladakh is unlike any place to visit in India. It is here that you can witness some of the world’s highest mountain passes as well as exotic wildlife species in India’s largest national park. This must-visit destination in India is perfect for motorbiking and mountain biking, camping, river rafting, trekking and peak climbing adventures.

Top Places to Visit in Ladakh

• Pangong Lake
• Nubra Valley
• Zanskar Valley

Top Things to Do in Ladakh

• Trekking & Hiking
• Peak Climbing
• Motor Biking
• Mountain Biking
• White Water River Rafting
• Wildlife Sighting especially snow leopards
• Attend Festivals in the Monasteries

Check out: Best of Ladakh Tourism Packages

Delhi: For its Incredible History and Past

The capital city makes for one of the perfect travel destinations in India. A city of heritage , monuments, teeming with bazaars and mouth-watering street food, high-end malls, and luxury hotels & restaurants; Delhi has something for everyone. So whether you are looking for a heritage walk or a shopping experience or for kids-friendly activities or places for photography or even seek the blessings of god, Delhi will not disappoint.

Top Places to Visit in Delhi

• Humayun’s Tomb
• Jama Masjid
• Qutub Minar
• Nizamuddin Dargah
• Chandni Chowk
• Lotus Temple
• Akshardham Temple
• Rashtrapati Bhawan

Things to Do in Delhi

• Try delectable street food
• Listen to qawwalis at Nizamuddin
• Take a tour on Hop On Ho Off (HOHO) Bus
• Go shopping in Chandni Chowk, Sarojini Nagar, Dilli Haat
• Architecture photography
• Heritage walk

Check out: Popular Delhi Sightseeing Tour Packages

Sikkim: For its Breathtaking Natural Vistas and Enthralling Adventures

One of the most beautiful places in India, Sikkim is a glittering gem of the North-East Himalayas. This northeast Indian destination is popular for being home to the world’s third highest mountain, Kanchenjunga (8586 m). Sikkim is one of the best destinations in India to spend a peaceful and laid back holiday as well as enjoy enthralling adventure activities.

Teeming with some of the world’s scenic trekking trails and rivers, this little northeastern state makes for a perfect adventure destination in India for trekkers, rafting enthusiasts, mountaineers and rock climbers. It is also famous for offering an experience of Yak Safari.

Sikkim is also a perfect place to go for some meditation sessions at numerous old Buddhist monasteries. Don’t miss out on delicious Sikkimese delicacies and shop to your heart’s content and buy Sikkimese handicrafts, thangka paintings and mural items.

Top Attractions in Sikkim

• Yumthang Valley
• Tsomgo Lake
• Rumtek Monastery
• Do-Drul Chorten
• Jawaharlal Nehru Botanical Garden

Things to Do in Sikkim

• River Rafting in Teesta River
• Paragliding
• Cable Car Ride in Gangtok
• Motorbiking
• Bungee Jumping at Singshore Bridge
• Helicopter Ride
• Caving/Spelunking at North Lha-Ri-Nying Phu

Check out:   Best of Sikkim Tourism Packages

Meghalaya: For its Spellbinding Natural Beauty 

Also known as the abode of clouds, Meghalaya is a hidden gem nestled in the lap of pine-covered Khasi and Garo Hills in the Northeastern part of India. One of the most picturesque states of North East India with its innumerable waterfalls, mystic caves, dense forests and sparkling lakes and rivers; Meghalaya is an ideal destination in India for trekkers, cavers/spelunkers and nature lovers.

It is only in Meghalaya where you will come across unique man-made living root bridges that are grown and not built. The ‘double decker living root bridge’ in Cherrapunjee is one such artistic splendour that has been standing strong for over 200 years. Meghalaya also offers a sneak peek of its tribal life along with delicious local food. The state offers a travel experience in India unlike any other.

Top Attractions in Meghalaya

• Cherapunjee
• Elephant Falls
• Nohkalikai Waterfalls
• Mawsmai Cave
• Double Decker Living Root Bridge
• Balpakram National Park
• Nohsngithiang Falls

Things to Do in Meghalaya

• Caving/Spelunking
• Ziplining in Cherapunjee
• Cliff jumping & Boating in Dawki

Check out: Meghalaya North East Sightseeing Tour Packages

Kerala: For its Backwaters, Beaches & Culture

Pristine backwaters, coconut-palm fringed beaches, rejuvenating Ayurvedic massages and colourful festivals; Yes! You guessed it right. I am talking about God’s own country, Kerala . One of the most picturesque places in India with a footfall of thousands of tourists every year, Kerala is tucked between Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats and is blessed with immense natural beauty.

Besides serene backwaters and pristine beaches, Kerala is also home to scenic hill stations and numerous wildlife sanctuaries. Offering an umpteen number of tourist activities, Kerala is a must-visit destination for every traveller. From memorable houseboat stays to nature walks through the sprawling tea gardens to wildlife safari to mesmerizing Kathakali performance to savouring traditional dishes, Kerala has a lot to offer.

Top Attractions in Kerala

• Periyar National Park
• Thiruvananthapuram

Things to Do in Kerala

• Wildlife Safari
• Houseboat stay and Sail on the Backwaters
• Ayurveda Massage
• Scuba Diving
• Cycling & Biking
• Windsurfing in Payyoli Beach, Somatheeram Beach, Alappuzha Beach and Varkala Beach
• Bamboo Rafting in Periyar National Park
• Paragliding in Vagamon and Varkala
• Snorkelling in Bond Safari in Kovalam, coast of Vizhinjam and at Varkala beach
• Spice or Coffee Plantation Tour
• Birdwatching
• Watch Folk Dance Performance
• Witness Snake Boat Race
• Try the Delicious Food of Kerala

Check out: Best of Kerala South India Tour Packages

Andaman: For its Pristine Beauty and Array of Water Sports

Known for their picturesque landscape comprising pristine beaches, azure waters and verdant forests, Andaman & Nicobar are a group of more than 500 islands situated in an infinite expanse of the Bay of Bengal. Packed with an array of interesting activities, Andaman & Nicobar is indeed one of the best beach destinations in India.

The islands are home to one of the best beaches in Asia, Radhanagar Beach, which is a paradise for honeymoon couples. For adventure lovers, the azure waters teeming with a diverse marine life and coral reefs, offer a perfect ambience to indulge in some world-class scuba diving and sea walking experiences. The islands are perfect for sighting exotic colourful birds, camping under the open sky and even trying your hands at a bar-be-que, cooking your own fresh catch of a fish or crab.

Top Attractions in Andaman & Nicobar

• Havelock Island
• Radhanagar Beach
• Cellular Jail
• Ross Island
• Viper Island
• Neil Island
• Baratang Island
• Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex
• Little Andaman
• Barren Island
• Long Island
• Corbyn’s Beach

Things to Do in Andaman & Nicobar

• Snorkelling
• Mangrove Kayaking
• Underwater Sea Walking

Check out: Best of Holiday Packages for Andaman

Goa: For its Beaches, World-heritage Churches, Food & Nightlife

Known for its gorgeous beaches, stellar nightlife, delish seafood, world-heritage listed monuments, Goa is where all the fun is in India. Although the beaches of Goa are the primary tourism attractions, there are many surprises waiting to be unravelled.

Goa has one of the best nightlife in India with trendy bars, beach shacks, elegant cafes and many clubs and discotheques. For those looking for a luxury stay, South Goa has many options.

For the history buffs, Old Goa is replete with many whitewashed churches, crumbling forts and spectacular mansions. The adventure junkies are also spoilt for choice in Goa with a number of watersports including snorkelling and jet skiing. The beautiful and quiet settings of Goa also make it a great destination for yoga and Ayurveda.

Top Attractions in Goa

• Calangute Beach
• Basilica of Bom Jesus
• Fort Aguada
• Anjuna Beach
• Dudhsagar Waterfalls
• Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception
• Chapora Fort
• Arambol Beach
• Palolem Beach
• Vagator Beach

Things to Do in Goa

• Watersports
• Shopping in Anjuna Flea Market and Night Market
• Yoga & Ayurveda
• Visit Spice Plantation
• Bungee Jumping at Mayem Lake
• Go-Karting in Arpora
• Try Seafood
• Take an Electric Bike Tour
• Heritage Walk in Fontainhas
• Climb up to Charpora For

Check out:   Goa Tourism Packages

Agra, Uttar Pradesh: For its Unprecedented Mughal Grandeur

Home to the symbol of love, Taj Mahal , Agra in Uttar Pradesh finds its spot on the world heritage map.  With its three gems, the impressive Taj Mahal, magnificent Agra Fort and splendid Fatehpur Sikri; the city charms thousands of tourists including historians and art lovers from all across India and the world.

Agra also gives a chance to savour authentic and traditional Mughlai flavours, shopping in the lively markets teeming with marble handicrafts & fine leather items, and even soaking your spirits in the enthralling fiesta of the Taj Mahotsav. For a more closer look at this heritage city, get on an off the beaten path journey and explore the narrow alleyways of the old city, ancient temples or visit the renowned poet, Mirza Ghalib’s birthplace.

Top Attractions in Agra

• Fatehpur Sikri
• Itimad-ud-Daulah Tomb
• Mehtab Bagh
• Akbar’s Tomb/Sikandra
• Chini Ka Rauza
• Wildlife SOS

Things to Do

• Savour delicacies of Agra
• Shop at Kinari Bazar
• Watch Kalakriti Dance Drama Show
• Watch Light & Sound Show at Agra Fort
• Boat Ride on Yamuna River

Check out: Delhi Agra Jaipur Golden Triangle Tour Packages

Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh: For its Spiritual Essence

Exploration of India remains incomplete without a trip to the holy city of Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh . Also known as the city of Moksha (salvation), the place holds a great religious significance for the Hindus.

Situated on the banks of sacred river Ganga , the city is believed to be more than 5000 years old. Bustling with enchanting ancient temples and holy Ghats crowded with people performing various rituals and prayers, Varanasi makes for an ultimate spiritual travel destination India.

Varanasi offers a number of experiences such as paying homage to Lord Shiva in the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple or taking a dip in the holy waters of river Ganga absolving your sins or witnessing the famed Ganga Aarti. When in the city, a must-try is Benaras ki Chaat. Shopping in Varanasi for musical instruments and world-renowned Benarasi Silk Sarees is also a must.

Top Attractions in Varanasi

• Kashi Vishwanath Temple
• Dasaswamedh Ghat
• Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple
• New Vishwanath Temple
• Tulsi Manasa Temple
• Durga Temple
• Tibetan Temple
• Manikarnika Ghat
• Bharat Mata Mandir
• Vishwanath Gali

Things to Do in Varanasi

• Boat Ride on Ganga River
• Watch Ganga Aarti on Dasaswamedh Ghat
• Try Street Food
• Try Food at Different Cafes

Check out: 2 Nights 3 Days Varanasi Sightseeing Tour Package

Jaisalmer, Rajasthan: For its Rajputana Magnificence and Plethora of Desert Activities

Also known as the Land of the Golden Sand, Jaisalmer in Rajasthan is a beautiful city known for its rich cultural heritage and tales of brave Rajput rulers. This popular tourist destination is flanked by the expansive Thar Desert. Jaisalmer offers an authentic experience of Rajasthani culture, traditions, and heritage with its magnificent Sonar Quila or the Jaisalmer Fort, havelis, delectable food, and camel safari opportunity in the desert.

The annual Jaisalmer Desert Festival is a major attraction in the city and a visual treat. Folk dances, cultural and musical performances, campfires under open starlit sky, enthralling camel shows, local haats (shops) selling exquisite jewellery and handicrafts, can also be witnessed and experienced in this must-see festival in Jaisalmer.

Top Attractions in Jaisalmer

• Jaisalmer Fort
• Sam Sand Dunes
• Patwon ki Haveli
• Nathmal ki Haveli
• Salim Singh ki Haveli
• Kuldhara Village
• Jain Temples
• Desert National Park
• Gadisar Lake
• Tazia Tower and Badal Palace
• Tanot Mata Temple
• Windmill Park

Things to Do in Jaisalmer

• Camel Safari & Dune Bashing in Sam Dunes
• Shopping in Sadar Bazaar, Bhatia Bazaar, Manak Chowk, Pansari Bazaar
• Parasailing in Kanoi
• Paramotoring
• Quad Biking
• Desert Camping
• Wildlife safari in Desert National Park
• Watch Puppet Show
• Try delectable food of Rajasthan

Check out: Jaisalmer Sightseeing Tourism Packages

Rann of Kutch, Gujarat: For its Salt Desert and Village Life Experience

An enormous stretch of white salt desert, the Great Rann of Kutch in Gujarat is amongst the best places to visit in India. Sprawling in an area of 7500 sq km, Rann of Kutch is one of the largest salt deserts in the world and only one of its kind in India. This must-see place in Gujarat comes to life during the annual Rann Utsav when the white canvas gets painted with different hues and shades of lively folk performances and art.

Along with live folk music and dance performances, one can enjoy camel safaris and delicious Kutch cuisine. Visitors can also watch colourful migratory birds in the Chhari Dhand Bird Sanctuary, breath-taking views of the infinite expanse of the Rann from Kala Dungar and artisans creating magic with their hands by making exquisite embroidery pieces.

What adds to the charm of this memorable trip is a stay in traditional Bhungas or cylindrical shaped huts with conical roofs in the enchanting Hodka and Dhordo Villages nearby. Providing you a feel of a rustic village life.

Top Attractions in Rann of Kutch

• Kala Dungar
• Chhari Dhand Bird Sanctuary
• Dhordo Village
• Hodka Village

Things to Do in Rann of Kutch

• Attend Rann Utsav
• Stay in Hodka and Dhordo Villages

Check out: Popular Tourism Packages for Gujarat

Aurangabad, Maharashtra: For its mesmerizing architecture

Dotted with plenty of ancient monuments, Aurangabad is a historical city located in Maharashtra. A city ruled by several dynasties in the past, today boasts of its rich heritage with its architectural marvels reminding the tales of once reigning dynasties. Mostly famed for its stunning Buddhist cave paintings of Ajanta and Ellora, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Aurangabad is the best destination to visit for history buffs.

Annually, Aurangabad organizes a cultural fiesta of Ellora Ajanta Festival which showcases the talent of a number of dancers and musicians across the country with the backdrop of illuminated 1400 years old caves. This festival adds to the charm of this historic city and provides one more reason for the art lovers to visit Aurangabad.

When in Aurangabad, do not give a miss to the lifetime opportunity of adding to your wardrobe, a traditional and exquisite collection of fine hand-woven Himroo and Paithani silk, a speciality of the city.

Top Attractions in Aurangabad

• Grishneshwar Temple
• Bibi Ka Maqbara
• Ajanta Caves
• Ellora Caves
• Daulatabad Fort
• Aurangabad Caves
• Siddharth Garden
• Bani Begum Garden

Things to Do in Aurangabad

• Eat at Yalla Yalla and Bhoj
• Photography

Check out: Best of Maharashtra Tour Packages

Sunderbans, West Bengal: For its rich wildlife and rustic charm

Home to the world’s largest mangrove forests and a large population of Royal Bengal Tigers, Sunderbans in West Bengal is one of the most famous wildlife destinations in India. Situated in the delta formed by Brahmaputra, Ganges, and Meghna Rivers, Sunderbans is also home to a large number of wild animals, reptiles and birds. It is also recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.

Things to Do in West Bengal

• Sight Royal Bengal Tigers
• Watch playful Gangetic Dolphins
• Wildlife Photography
• Village Tour
• Witness Phytoplanktons in Night Safari
• Witness the Freshwater Crocs at Bhagabatpur Crocodile Project

Check out: West Bengal Tour Packages

Hampi, Karnataka: For its brilliantly carved monuments

A city immersed in the glorious past of the Vijayanagara Empire dating back to the period between 14th and 16th century, Hampi in Karnataka is another great place to visit for history buffs . Ruins of this ancient city with its number of strikingly beautiful monuments, temples and palaces still tell you the tales of grandeur and magnificence of the Vijayanagara rulers.

A trip to this historic place in Karnataka is incomplete without being part of its annually held musical extravaganza of Hampi Utsav. During the festival, one can enjoy live cultural dance performances with the backdrop of the splendid ruins lit up with lights which makes it an exceptional sight to behold.

Top Attractions in Hampi

• Virupaksha Temple
• Vithala Temple
• Lotus Palace
• Yantrodharaka Hanuman Temple
• Hampi Bazar
• Hippie Island
• Queen’s Bath
• Matanga Hills
• Elephant Stable
• Monolith Bull

Things to Do in Hampi

• Watch the sunset from Hanuman Temple
• Coracle Ride in Tungbhadra River
• Cliff Jumping in Hampi’s Lake

Check out:  Karnataka Holiday Packages

Mysore, Karnataka: For its rich culture and abundance of attractions

Considered to be the cultural capital of Karnataka in South India, Mysore is a historic city known for its beautiful palaces and gardens. Every attraction of Mysore tells a story related to the city’s glorious past. Whether it is the magnificent Mysore City Palace dazzling with thousands of bulbs or Brindavan Gardens lined up with musical fountains, Mysore does not miss an opportunity to woo its visitors. A major attraction in Mysore is the royal procession of colourfully decked up elephants during the world famous Mysore Dasara Festival.  The city is also famous for its beautiful silk saree and delicious sweet, Mysore Pak.

Top Attractions in Mysore

• Mysore Palace
• Brindavan Gardens
• Somanathpura Temple
• Chamundeshwari Temple
• Bonsai Garden
• Karanji Lake
• GRS Fantasy Park
• St. Philomena’s Church

Things to Do in Mysore

• Yoga Training
• Buy Mysore Silk Saree
• Try Local Dishes
• Buy Mysore Pak

Recommended Tour Packages

• 4 Nights 5 Days Bangalore Mysore Ooty Tour Package
• 5 Nights 6 Days Bangalore Mysore Nagarhole Tour Package

Kaziranga National Park, Assam: For sighting one-horned rhinos and royal Bengal tigers

Home to the largest population of the vulnerable species of one-horned rhinoceros, Kaziranga National Park in Assam is one of the best wildlife destinations in India. Kaziranga has also been recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site and is also famous for its elephant grass. Apart from the one-horned rhinos, Kaziranga is home to Hoolock Gibbon, Tiger, Leopard, Indian Elephant, Sloth Bear, Wild water buffalo, and swamp deer among many other species of wildlife.

Top Things to Do in Kaziranga National Park

• Jeep Safari
• One-horned Rhino Sighting
• Tiger Sighting

Check out:  Kaziranga Wildlife Safari Tour Packages

Rishikesh, Uttarakhand: For learning yoga and enjoying adventure activities

Seated on the bank of holy River Ganga, Rishikesh in Uttarakhand is an unmissable destination in India. Also dubbed the Yoga Capital of the country, Rishikesh is primarily visited by either yoga aspirants or those seeking a spiritual experience. Learning yoga in the ashrams of Rishikesh and in the evening watching the Ganga Aarti are two of the best experiences in the city. But that’s not all that Rishikesh offers, there are many adventure activities inviting you for an experience of a lifetime. Adventure lovers can indulge in activities like camping, white water rafting, bungee jumping from India’s highest platform, and flying fox (Asia’s longest ride).

Top Attractions in Rishikesh

• Lakshman Jhula
• Triveni Ghat
• The Beatles Ashram
• Neelkantha Mahadeva Temple
• Triambakeshwar Temple

Things to Do in Rishikesh

• White Water Rafting
• Bungee Jumping
• Giant Swing
• Cliff Jumping
• Witness Ganga Aarti
• 3 Nights 4 Days Mussoorie Tour with Rishikesh
• 7 Nights 8 Days Best of Garhwal Himalayas Tour

Jaipur, Rajasthan: For rich architecture, food, and shopping

The Pink City, Jaipur is a destination you cannot miss when visiting India. Jaipur is a perfect reflection of what the royal state of Rajasthan is about – it is elegant, replete with fine monuments, and is rich in culture. Due to preserving and conserving its rich heritage, the city has been recognized by UNESCO a World Heritage Site.

The capital city is dotted with numerous palaces and forts, an open-air observatory, state museum and other museums, and many traditional places to eat. The city also has another side where it offers high-end malls, fancy restaurants, gardens, and much more for its visitors.

Top Attractions in Jaipur

• City Palace
• Jantar Mantar
• Nahargarh Fort
• Jaigarh Fort
• Albert Hall Museum
• Galta Ji Temple
• Birla Temple
• Moti Dungri Temple
• Masala Chowk

Things to Do in Jaipur

• Old City Heritage Walk
• Watch Sunset from Nahargarh Fort
• Hot Air Ballooning
• Watch Cultural Performances
• Sample Rajasthani Cuisine
• Learn About Block Printing
• Witness Elephant Festival
• Attend Jaipur Literature Festival

Check out: Best of Jaipur Sightseeing Tour Packages

Amritsar, Punjab: For Golden Temple, Food, and Cheering Indian Army

Home to the gorgeous Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib), Amritsar in Punjab is a destination that should be included in your India travel itinerary. Even though the Sikh sacred shrine (Golden Temple) makes for the top attraction in Amritsar, there are still plenty of other places that are worth seeing in the city. Amritsar is a reflection of India’s independence struggle and is also in close proximity to the Indo-Pak Border (Wagah/Attari Border).

The city allows a unique experience of witnessing the lowering of the flags ceremony at the Attari-Wagah border by the military of both India and Pakistan. Other than this, the city is a food lover’s paradise. From Amritsari Kulcha to Amritsari Fish to Lassi, the city has so much to offer to you.

Top Attractions in Amritsar

• Golden Temple
• Wagah Border
• Jallianwala Bagh
• Hall Bazaar
• Gobindgarh Fort
• Shopping for Phulkari and Jutis
• Try speciality of Amritsar food
• Eat at Guru ka Langar
• Cheer For Indian Soldiers at Wagah Border Flag Ceremony
• Watch Light & Sound Show at Gobindgarh Fort
• 3 Nights 4 Days Amritsar Tour Package
• 4 Nights 5 Days Punjab Gurudwara Tour

Lambasingi, Kashmir of Andhra Pradesh

Little enchanting village of Lambasingi lies in the city of Visakhapatnam. It is one of the best places to visit in India. The most interesting fact about Lambasingi is that it is the only place in South India to receive snowfall in winter. It is also known as ‘Kashmir of Andhra Pradesh’. Blessed with gorgeous beauty of nature, it is a place where you can escape and disappear in the folds of time, away from the chaos of the world. Lofty hills, greenery all around, dense forests, gorgeous valleys, green plantations and thrilling adventure activities like trekking, hiking, mountain biking and camping will make your sightseeing and day exciting at Lambasingi.

Top Places to Visit in Lambasingi

• Thajangi Reservoir
• Kothapalli Waterfalls
• Susan Garden
• Bojjannakonda
• Kondakarla Bird Sanctuary
• Annavaram Temple
• Yerravaram Waterfalls

Top Things to Do in Lambasingi

• Visit Kothapalli waterfalls
• Experience Snowfall
• Camping in Lambasingi would be fun
• Bird watching at Kondakarla Bird Sanctuary
• Nature Walk at Ghat Road
• Strolling at the stunning Gardens, Apple Orchards and Emerald plantations

Other Interesting Blog to Read

• Best Places to Visit in Andhra Pradesh

Shimla, Mesmerizing Queen of hills

Decked with green hills at an altitude of 2,205 meters, the erstwhile summer capital of British India is one of the most popular hill stations and favorite destination in India. You will witness the beauty of Pine and Oak forests, steep hillsides, colonial buildings, colorful markets and stunning Lamp Posts makes this place quite gorgeous to capture in your lens. honeymooners, nature lovers and families throughout the year visit Shimla at least once. From mid-July to September, Shimla is covered with snow which is a bliss for snow lovers. Which opens the gates for thrilling adventure sports like Skiing, trekking, ice skating and paragliding etc.  The town’s nightlife, games of Golf, elite clubs will blow your heart away.

Top Places to Visit in Shimla

• Jakhoo Hill
• Visceral Lodge
• Green Valley
• Christ Church
• Tara Devi Temple
• The Mall Road
• Kalka Shimla Toy Train
• Himachal State Museum
• Lakkar Bazaar

Top Things to Do in Shimla

• Toy Train Ride
• Ice Skating
• Rafting at Tattapani
• Nature Walks in Pine Forests
• Gorgeous views of Summer Hill
• Divine blessings at Tara Devi Temple

Other Interesting Blogs to Read

• Best Places to Visit in Shimla Himachal
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Shillong- Rejoice Your Soul with Mesmerising Nature Vistas

Shillong , Meghalaya’s capital, is surrounded by thick pine trees. Shillong, one of Northeast India’s most popular hill stations, is recognized for its scenic beauty, waterfalls, and fresh breeze. The city is also known as East Scotland. Shillong is home to many hill tribes on the one hand, but it also has a young, modern culture. The city is well-known as India’s music capital.

Top Places to Visit in Shillong

• Shillong Peak and Viewpoint
• Laitlum Canyons
• Police Bazar
• Mary helps for Christian Cathedral
• Ward’s Lake
• Sweet Falls
• Spread Eagle Falls

Top Things to Do in Shillong

• Horse Riding
• Cup of Coffee at Cafes
• Nature Walks
• Rock Climbing
• Sightseeing
• Top Snowfall Destinations in North East India Which Will Blow Your Heart Away
• Best Places to Visit in Sikkim, North East India

Imphal, Manipur

Imphal , set amidst forested hills, is a revitalising respite for those who live in congested cities. Imphal provides them with beautiful hills and valleys. In Northeast India, it is well-known as a honeymoon destination. There are several historical sites in the area that highlight the state’s cultural variety. Imphal’s culinary delicacies must be sampled to get a full picture of the city.

Top Places to Visit in Imphal

• Kangla Palace
• Matai Garden
• Tharon Cave
• Ema Keithel
• Manipur State Museum
• Sirohi National Park
• Imphal War Cemetery

Top Things to Do in Imphal

• Sightseeing of Heritage destinations
• 2 Nights 3 Days Imphal Manipur Tour Package
• 4 Nights 5 Days Imphal Sightseeing Tour Package

Dimapur, Nagaland

Dimapur, Nagaland’s main city and economic centre, is proud of its indigenous culture and traditions. Dimapur has something for everyone, from the Kachari ruins to the Triple Falls and forests with various flora and animals. It is the gateway to other Himalayan locations and is one of the most well-known tourist attractions in Northeast India. The Hornbill Festival brings Dimapur to life.

Top Places to See in Dimapur

• The Triple Falls
• Shiva Temple
• Zoological Park
• Nagaland Science Centre
• Hong Kong Market
• Kachari Ruins
• Sumi Town Baptist Church
• Chumukedima Village

Top Things to Do in Dimapur

• Traditional Homestays
• Waterfall Tours
• Nature Sightseeing and photography
• Wildlife Sighting
• Village Walks
• Try different Cuisines
• Popular Tourist Places in Nagaland
• Popular Wildlife Sanctuaries & National Parks in Nagaland
• What to Expect While Traveling to Nagaland in December?

Udaipur, Rajasthan: The City of Lakes

The city of Udaipur  is also known as ‘Venice of the East’, due to its many beautiful lakes. Founded in 1556, Udaipur is named after Maharaja Udai Singh II and is situated at the base of the Aravalli hills in southern Rajasthan. A popular tourist destination with its palaces, temples, and havelis, Udaipur has now emerged as a popular location for pre-wedding shoots and destination weddings. The city has remained the capital of the Mewar kingdom for decades and has managed to keep the culture alive with its folk songs and dances. A city of the royals, you will definitely enjoy your stay here.

Top Places to Visit in Udaipur

• City Palace Udaipur
• Lake Pichola
• Lake Palace
• Monsoon Palace
• Swaroop Sagar Lake
• Fateh Sagar Lake
• Nehru Garden
• Bagore ki Haveli
• Saheliyon ki Bari
• Karni Mata Temple

Top Things to Do in Udaipur

• Boating at Lake Pichola
• Ride the ropeway to Karni Mata Temple
• Shop at Hathi Pol Bazaar
• Enjoy a royal stay at Lake Palace
• Enjoy sunsets at the lakes
• Watch the light and sound show at City Palace
• Go trekking among the Aravalli hills

Also Read: Historical Places to Visit in Udaipur

Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh:  Beauty of the Cold Desert

Situated at a height of more than 13,000 ft above sea level, Himachal Pradesh’s Spiti Valley  is a beautiful landscape with tranquil monasteries and the mighty Himalayas. The Valley is bordered by Tibet on the north, and as a result tends to share a lot of the traits in its culture. The silent valley of Spiti has acquired a number of monasteries over the years since it provides the perfect atmosphere for spiritual development like the Tabo Monastery at Spiti, which was built in 996 CE and is the oldest monastery in India. The Valley, though provides serene monasteries but it also offers some amazing adventure and water sports for those who love to feel the adrenaline.

Top Places to Visit in Spiti Valley

• Tabo Monastery
• Key Monastery
• Losar village
• Kibber village
• Trilokinath Temple
• Chandratal Lake
• Suraj Tal Lake
• Pin Valley National Park
• Kunzum Pass

Top Things to Do in Spiti Valley

• Go river rafting at the Spiti River
• Admire endangered species at Pin Valley National Park
• Visit the monasteries for a peaceful experience
• Trek to the Dhankar Lake
• Take a mountain bike trip at Spiti
• Enjoy stargazing at Kibber

Also Read: Snow Tourist Places in Himachal

Ranthambore, Rajasthan: Land of the Royal Bengal Tigers

The Tiger Reserve at Ranthambore is one of the prominent tiger reserves in the world and houses the big cat species of the Bengal Tiger. Ranthambore Tiger Reserve  or the Ranthambore National Park is situated in Sawai Madhopur, in the north Indian state of Rajasthan. It is one of the larger habitats of tigers in the country and was established as a wildlife sanctuary in 1955 that later worked its way to form one of the major tiger reserves of India. It is mainly known for its tigers that stay awake during the day unlike most tigers who are active at night. Due to the number of tigers in the park who roam around freely, you are sure to see some on your visit.

Top Places to Visit in Ranthambore

• Ranthambore Fort
• Surwal Lake
• Malik Talao
• Trinetra Ganesha Temple
• Padam Talao
• Raj Bagh Ruins
• Rajiv Gandhi Regional Museum of Natural History

Top Things to Do in Ranthambore

• Take a jeep or canter safari to spot the tigers at the reserve
• Indulge in bird watching at Surwal Lake
• Hike to the Ranthambore Fort
• Visit the Trinetra Ganesha Temple

Also Read:   Interesting Facts About Ranthambore

Junagadh, Gujarat:  A Scenic Fort City

Located in Gujarat, Junagadh is a historical city and a place you must visit on your trip to the state. Steeped in history, the city has seen several rulers during its existence from the Mauryas to the Mughals. As important as it is historically, Junagadh is also a popular pilgrimage destination for followers of several religions, such as Hinduism, Jainism, Islam, and Buddhism. Located in the foothills of Mount Girnar, the city is also close to one of the prominent national parks of India, the Gir National Park.

Top Places to Visit in Junagadh

• Mahabat Khan Maqbara
• Uparkot Fort
• Darbar Hall Museum
• Ashoka Edicts
• Khapra Kodia Caves
• Jain Temples at Girnar
• Dattatreya Temple at Girnar
• Shree Swaminarayan Mandir
• Sakkarbaug Zoological Garden
• Gir National Park
• Tulsi Shyam Springs

Top Things to Do in Junagadh

• Take a wildlife safari at Gir National Park to sight Asiatic lions
• Explore the Uparkot Fort and the buddhist caves
• Observe the rock edicts by Ashoka
• Ride a ropeway to the top of Mount Girnar
• Go for a morning stroll at Moti Baug
• Indulge in the delicious Kathiawadi cuisine

Also Read:   Top Weekend Getaways in Gujarat

Jim Corbett, Uttarakhand: For the Bengal Tigers and Tuskers

The Jim Corbett National Park in Uttarakhand  is located in the foothills of the Himalayas, near Nainital and is a popular tourist destination. It is the first national park established in India in 1936 and has the highest number of Royal Bengal Tigers among the country’s tiger reserves. The national park offers jeep and canter  for its visitors.  Jim Corbett National Park stands out with its varied landscapes of dense forests, rivers, grasslands, hills, valleys, lakes, rocky terrains, and waterfalls.

Top Places to Visit in Jim Corbett

• Garjiya Temple
• Corbett Falls
• Corbett Museum
• Sitabani Forest Reserve
• Kalagarh Dam
• Sonanadi Range

Top Things to Do in Jim Corbett

• Take a jeep safari at the park
• Go for a nature walk with a guide
• Enjoy a night stay at the park
• Try river rafting in the Kosi River
• Enjoy a hot air balloon ride

Also Read: Best Hotels & Resorts to Stay in Corbett National Park

Let Us Find Out What to Expect in Different Seasons in India         

What to Expect in Summer Season in India?

The summer season in India commences in the month of March and ends in May. India’s vast geographic scale and varied topography make generalizations a little difficult. However, summers in India are quite hot with an exception to the Himalayan states and hill stations in other parts of the country.

In the month of March, India celebrates its one of the biggest and most colourful festivals of Holi. In different parts of the country, Holi is celebrated in different ways and each one is a must-see. In Vrindavan (Uttar Pradesh), Holi is played with flowers, whereas a few kilometers away in Barsana, the festival is celebrated in a distinctive way where women playfully beat the men with sticks.

In Rajasthan’s capital, Jaipur, an Elephant Festival is celebrated, in which the animal is decorated with paints and ornaments and taken to a procession. In West Bengal’s Santiniketan, Holi is celebrated as the Basanta Utsav or the Dol Utsav. The festival celebrates the arrival of spring season with music, dance, food, and colours.

The months of March and April, the Himalayan states (Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Sikkim) see blooming of many flowers including rhododendron. The summer months in the Himalayan states are also considered best for trekking tours and other adventures. Wildlife tours in summers in India are also quite popular amongst the tourists who come to sight tigers and the rich flora & fauna of the country.

What to Expect in Monsoon Season in India?

The monsoon season in India arrives by mid-June and ends in September. Monsoons first reach the southern India state of Kerala where the weather becomes ideal for enjoying Ayurveda massages. In this season, Kerala also organizes its traditional Snake Boat Races. In north India, Ladakh becomes fully accessible with opportunities of sightseeing and several adventures like trekking, motorbiking, river rafting. In Kashmir Valley, the sacred Amarnath Yatra along with opportunities of trekking opens in the monsoon season.

The rains are on the heavier side in the Himalayan state of Uttarakhand and Himachal. While in Uttarakhand, many spiritual treks along with a trek to Valley of Flowers open in the rainy season, in Himachal, the district of Lahaul & Spiti along with a number of treks invite the travellers.

Monsoon is also the best time to visit the northeastern state of Meghalaya. The state is known for its waterfalls that come alive in the rainy season. In western India (Maharashtra & Goa), monsoon season is the time of festivity with grand celebrations of Janmashtami and monsoon festival. The rainy reason is also a good time to explore the Western Ghats that are rich in flora & fauna.

What to Expect in Winter Season in India?

The winter season in India begins in October and continues till February. This season is considered the best time to visit India. The months of October and November celebrate some of the biggest festivals in India, Dussehra and Diwali. The festivity is something worth visiting in the country. In December, Goa comes to life with tourists thronging to celebrate Christmas and New Year.

In the Himalayan states, winter months of December to February are the time for the snowfall. In Kashmir’s Gulmarg, Uttarakhand’s Auli, and Himachal’s Solang Valley, these winter months are the best time for skiing adventures. Ladakh, on the other side, opens one of the best winter treks in India, Chadar/Frozen Lake Trek. Winter trekking is open in all the Himalayan states and is an experience to remember.

With the arrival of winter, Gujarat’s famous Great Rann of Kutch organizes its annual festival, Rann Utsav, which is definitely a must-see. Another worth seeing festival in winters is the Taj Mahotsav in Agra. The winter season is also an ideal time to explore states that are difficult to visit in summer due to extreme temperature such as Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q. what are the best places for nature lovers in india.

When exploring different places in India, one can visit a number of tourist destinations that are perfect for nature lovers. Some of them are mentioned in the list below:

• Andaman & Nicobar

Q. What are the best places for adventure in India?

The following are the best destinations for adventure in India:

Q. What are the most visited places in India?

The most visited places in India include the following:

Q. What is the best time to visit India for holidays?

India can be visited round the year due to its varied topography. There are destinations that can be visited in different seasons. However, the best time to visit India is considered to be between October and April.

Q. Which are the best yoga, meditation, and Ayurveda destinations in India?

The best yoga, meditation, and Ayurveda destinations in India are:

• Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
• Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh

Q. Is it safe to visit India in the monsoon season?

Yes, it is safe to visit India in the monsoon season. However, it is advised to check the weather forecast and keep an eye on the news of the destination you want to visit in India.

Q. Is travelling to India in the summer season convenient?

India has a varied topography and one should make the most of this opportunity. In the summer season, the temperature across India can go up to 40 degree Celsius, but in the Himalayan states and other hill stations in India, the weather remains pleasant and under 30 degree Celsius. Therefore, it is recommended to plan a visit to places with cooler weather conditions in the summer season.

Published: 07 Nov, 2020 | Last Updated:  09 Feb, 2024

About the author

Nidhi Singh

From the Lake District, Nainital, Nidhi Singh is a travel writer whose love for mountains can be seen in her write ups. Talk about solo travelling, indulging in adventure activities, binging on good food, planning budget trips or the Aurora Borealis and you will get all her attention. It is the wanderlust that keeps her going and if at all she could get one wish granted she would love to live a life less ordinary. Follow her on Twitter , Facebook & Instagram .

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15 of the Best Offbeat Places to Visit in India

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Whether you've seen enough of India's most popular destinations  or are simply keen to discover some less-touristy spots , there are some remarkable places to visit in India that are off the beaten track. Read on to find out lesser-known alternatives to well-trodden places.

Instead of Rajasthan: Kutch Region of Gujarat

Sharell Cook

The vast Kutch region of Gujarat is sometimes described as India's "Wild West." 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's handicraft villages are also a highlight.

Plan your trip with this comprehensive Kutch travel guide .

Instead of Leh and Ladakh: Spiti in Himachal Pradesh

Spiti/Getty Images

When it comes to high altitude desert in India, you've most likely head of Leh and Ladakh. But what about lesser-known Spiti? Bordered by Ladakh in the north, Tibet to the east, Kinnaur to the southeast, and the Kullu Valley to the south, Spiti has an average height of around 12,500 feet above sea level. This stark alpine desert land is scattered with small villages and monasteries, and enclosed by soaring peaks crowned with snow.

Find out the details in this ultimate Spiti travel planner.

Instead of the Kerala Backwaters: Majuli in Assam

Amar Grover/Getty Images

Majuli, the world’s largest inhabited river island, sits amidst the imposing Brahmaputra River in Assam. A world within a world, ride bicycles through the fertile green landscape, go bird watching, and visit Hindu Neo-Vaishnavite monasteries.  La Maison de Anand is a quaint bamboo stilt house homestay there, designed by a French architect who fell in love with Majuli. The Majuli Ras Mahotsav festival, held in mid-November each year, celebrates the life of Lord Krishna with plays, folk dances, puppets, masks, songs and dance.

This Majuli Island travel guide has more information.

Instead of Darjeeling: Kalimpong in West Bengal

PRABHASROY/Getty Images

Kalimpong is the perfect solution for escaping the crowds at Darjeeling . This peaceful town is perched on a remote ridge in the Himalayan foothills, about two-and-a-half-hour hours away from Darjeeling, near the Sikkim border. It offers a diverse mix of attractions—Buddhist monasteries, historic churches, local markets, villages, nature trails, tea gardens, and a superb view of Mount Kangchenjunga (the third highest peak in the world).

Plan your trip with this complete guide to visiting Kalimpong.

Instead of Varanasi: Maheshwar in Madhya Pradesh

Often referred to as the " Varanasi of Central India", the small holy town of Maheshwar is set along the banks of the Narmada River and is also dedicated to Lord Shiva. Stroll along the ghats (steps leading to the water), watch local life, and take a sunset boat ride along the river and out to Baneshwar temple. If you want to splurge you can be a guest of the royal Holkar family at their Ahilya Fort hotel , which they've established in part of their palace. Maheshwar is also renowned for its weaving industry.

Read more in this essential guide to Maheshwar

Instead of Hampi: Mandu in Madhya Pradesh

Mandu can be visited in conjunction with Maheshwar, as it's only a couple of hours away. This abandoned city from the Mughal era is commonly labeled the Hampi of Central India because of its treasure trove of ruins. They're spread over a 2,000 foot-high hilltop and enclosed by a 28-mile (45-kilometer) stretch of wall. In recognition of its importance, in 2018, the Indian government jointly named Mandu as Best Heritage City in India (along with Ahmedabad in Gujarat ) at the National Tourism Awards.

Read more in this essential guide to Mandu .

Instead of Fatehpur Sikri: Champaner-Pavagadh in Gujarat

These days, the abandoned 16th century Mughal capital of Fatehpur Sikri near Agra is overrun by touts. A lesser-known, short-lived, capital that's also a UNESCO World Heritage site is Champaner-Pavagadh , situated about 90 miles (145 kilometers) southeast of Ahmedabad. Notably, it's the only unaltered and complete Islamic pre-Mughal city in India. Its historical treasures, dating back to between the 8th and 14th centuries, include a hill fortress, palaces, places of worship (Jama Masjid is one of the most spectacular mosques in Gujarat), residential areas, reservoirs, and step wells.

Instead of Jaisalmer: Osian in Rajasthan

 iannomadav/Getty Images

Osian is perfect for those who want to avoid the commercial desert tourism in Jaisalmer and have a peaceful camel safari experience. This small town is situated about an hour and a half north of Jodhpur , on the way to Bikaner. Its surrounded by several sand dunes. Intricately carved stone temples, dating from the 8th to 11th centuries when Osian was an important trading center, are an added attraction. The main one is a Sun Temple dedicated to Surya the Sun god. Stay at Osian Sand Dunes Resort and Camp or Reggie's Camel Camp .

Instead of the Sundarbans: Pichavaram Mangroves in Tamil Nadu

You can be forgiven if you didn't know about Pichavaram mangrove forest, despite it being one of the world's largest mangrove jungles (the Sundarbans National Park in West Bengal is the largest). After all, it's not on the tourist trail. However, this remarkable and fascinating place is definitely worth visiting. Spread over nearly 3,000 acres, it has 4,400 big and small canals that can be explored by boat. In addition, Chidambaram Nataraj Temple (dedicated to Lord Shiva in his dancing form) is not far away.

This guide to visiting Pichavaram mangrove forest will help you plan your trip.

Instead of Varkala Beach: Kannur in Kerala

The small town of Kannur, in northern Kerala, is known for its secluded beaches, mysterious masked spirit-possession theyyam rituals , and hand loom weaving. The theyyam season runs from October until May and Kerala Tourism has a comprehensive calendar of theyyam events . There are some delightful, laid back (and inexpensive) beach houses in the Thottada beach area, such as Kannur Beach House , Waves Beach Resort, Chera Rock Beach House , and KK Heritage Homestay . Kannur district is also home to Muzhappilangad Drive-In Beach. You can drive all the way along its vast stretch of sand.

Instead of Kanha National Park: Kawardha in Chhattisgarh

Courtesy of Bhoramdeo Jungle Retreat

Thinking of visiting famous Kanha National Park but want to avoid the crowds and prefer nature over tiger spotting? Bhoramdeo Jungle Retreat is a few hours drive away and has three atmospheric cottages nestled in the Maikal Hills, close to the ancient Bhoramdeo temple complex. The owner is a native of the area and has an excellent rapport with the indigenous villagers, who belong to the Baiga and Gond tribes. Guests can visit their tolas (villages) and colorful weekly haats (tribal markets). Treks into the jungle are offered, and the butterflies, birds and wildlife are exceptional. It's also possible to go on longer treks into the Maikal Hills, staying in villagers' homes. 

Instead of Manali: Kalap in Uttarakhand

Anand Sankar

Manali in Himachal Pradesh attracts plenty of adventure seekers, who come to enjoy its surrounding village trekking trails. However, to go where very few tourists have gone before, head to Kalap, 7,500 feet above sea level in the upper Garhwal region of northern Uttarakhand. This tiny village is not accessible by road or rail (you'll need to trek, and porters and mules are provided). A responsible tourism project was started there in 2013 to help the villagers generate an income. You can stay with them and experience their way of life, as well as spend time in the pristine surroundings. 

Instead of Nagarhole in Karnataka: Pollachi in Tamil Nadu

Vinod Kumar M/Getty Images

Nagarhole National Park is one of the top national parks in India . It gets its name from the snake-like river that winds its way through it. However, the government-run minibus safaris through the park tend to be rather disappointing and noisy and private safaris are costly. Alternatively, Pollachi in the Coimbatore district of Tamil Nadu is an unexplored place teaming with wildlife, plus Anamalai Tiger Reserve is in the area. The annual Kongu Nadu Cattle Festival, held in January, is also a highlight. Thadam Experiences offers customized trips including bird watching, nature walks, boat rides, village and farm visits, and tea tours. Grass Hills Tours and Travels is also a reputable company that specializes in local nature and wildlife tourism. Stay at Coco Lagoon Resort , or the cheaper Coconut County Farm Stay.

Instead of Hyderabad and Golconda: Gandikota, Andhra Pradesh

Aleksey Gavrikov/Getty Images

Golconda Fort near Hyderabad is one of the top forts in India . However, about seven hours south of the city are the ruins of another fort that hardly anyone is familiar with, despite the fact that it was possessed by many powerful rulers including the Chalukyas, Pemmasani Nayaks, Golconda Sultanate, Mughals (under Aurangzeb), and the British. Gandikota is a fort on a gorge in the Kadapa district of Andhra Pradesh. The gorge is often referred to as the Grand Canyon of India. It's possible to kayak along the Penna River, hike along the gorge, and enjoy spectacular star-lit nights and sunrises over the canyon. Accommodations are limited in the area. If you don't want to stay at the Haritha hotel run by Andhra Pradesh Tourism or camp by the canyon, Royal County is the best option although it's an hour from Gandikota.

Instead of Goa: Maharashtra's Konkan Coast

North of Goa, across the border in Maharashtra, the Konkan Coast offers a bounty of beautiful beaches that are among the most pristine in the country. Delightfully off the tourist trail, they are devoid of much development and many are practically deserted. Inexpensive beachfront homestays are popping up in many places, and you'll get mouthwatering home-cooked coastal cuisine. If you'd prefer somewhere with more facilities yet still noncommercial, Gokarna in Karnataka is ideal.

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How Indians Are Traveling Now: Takeaways From MakeMyTrip’s First Trend Report

Bulbul Dhawan , Skift

April 22nd, 2024 at 10:09 AM EDT

MakeMyTrip shares insights into changing preferences of Indian travelers as the Indian tourism industry is poised for significant growth in 2024.

Bulbul Dhawan

Indian travelers have an increased interest in weekend getaways and spiritual tourism, according to online travel agency MakeMyTrip’s first-ever travel trends report . Searches for destinations with or around religious spots increased by 97% in the last two years, the platform stated in the report, which was released on Monday.

Spiritual tourism is also leading the growth of tourism in tier-2 and tier-3 cities. MakeMyTrip recorded a 585% increase in searches for Ayodhya in 2023. Gains were 343% for Badrinath, and 359% for Ujjain. 

In the domestic hotels category, weekend getaways have seen the highest growth. Popular travel destination Jim Corbett has seen an year-on-year increase of 131% in terms of search volumes, followed by Ooty and Munnar. “A large number of travelers are driving to these destinations from nearby metros,” MakeMyTrip stated in the report. 

Skift’s earlier report had mentioned how the Indian tourism industry is poised for significant growth, with estimates projecting a revenue of $24 billion in 2024 .

Increased Discretionary Spend on Travel

The number of travelers taking more than three trips a year in 2023 has grown by 25% as compared to 2019. Indians are also spending more discretionary income on travel, MakeMyTrip said. There has also been an increased interest in domestic travel and travel to unexplored destinations in the country, especially because of the country’s improved infrastructure. 

Staycations and experience travel increased in 2023. Family travel bookings witnessed a 64% year-on-year increase, while solo travel bookings increased by 23%. Two people traveling together accounted for 50% of all bookings, MakeMyTrip shared. It also recorded December and May as the most preferred months for travel. 

Spontaneous Domestic Trips, But Planned International Travels

According to the report, Indians are spontaneous travelers when it comes to domestic bookings. As much as 46% of domestic flight bookings were done in less than a week before the date of travel, it stated. 

International bookings, however, witnessed a longer planning period, with 51% of the international flight bookings having been done at least 15 days before departure. One-third of all international bookings were made more than a month in advance. 

MakeMyTrip observed the same pattern in hotel bookings. More than 50% of the domestic hotel bookings for leisure were made less than a week before travel. One-third of international hotel bookings were made at least 30 days in advance. 

Preferences of Indian Travelers

As much as 30% of all international travel searches from India were for Dubai, Bangkok, and Singapore. “London, Toronto, and New York were the most searched long-haul destinations,” MakeMyTrip stated in the report. There has also been an interest in international travel during long weekends, as the platform recorded a surge in searches for Bali, Bangkok, Phuket, and Singapore. 

When it comes to domestic travel, two-thirds of the travelers prefer to pre-select their flight seats. During international travel, this figure drops to 40%, the platform shared. Additionally, indigenously developed unified payments interface (UPI) is the most preferred mode of payment for Indian travelers and accounts for 36% of all transactions. 

India is also witnessing an increase in the popularity of travel gift cards. Half of the travel gift cards are gifted on the occasion of weddings, while the other 50% are gifted on occasions such as birthdays and festivals.

Hotels continue to be the most popular type of accommodation, with searches for hotels increasing by 39% year-on-year in 2023. Couples and family travelers formed the majority of the guests booking for hotels. 

Alternate accommodations witnessed a 24% increase in searches. Friends and larger groups preferred to book homestays, apartments, and villas, while more solo travelers favored hostels. 

Skift India Report

The Skift India Report is your go-to newsletter for all news related to travel, tourism, airlines, and hospitality in India.

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Tags: flight bookings , flight search , hotels , india , india outbound , india travel , international travel , makemytrip , middle class , online travel agencies , online travel companies , religious travel , skift india report , tourism , travel spending , Travel Trends

Photo credit: Weekend getaways have seen the highest growth in the domestic hotels category. Uriel Mont / Pexels

European Union adopts more favourable Schengen visa rules for Indians

Indian Nationals can now apply for a multiple entry Schengen visa with longer validity

On 18 April 2024, the European Commission adopted specific rules on the issuing of multiple entry visas to Indian nationals, which are more favourable than the standard rules of the Visa Code that applied to date. This new visa ‘cascade’ regime for Indian nationals residing in India who apply for Schengen (short-stay) visas in India will provide easier access to visas with multi-year validity for travellers with an established travel history, if the passport validity allows. 

According to the newly adopted visa “cascade” regime for India, Indian nationals can now be issued long-term, multi-entry Schengen visas valid for two years after having obtained and lawfully used two visas within the previous three years. The two-year visa will normally be followed by a five-year visa, if the passport has sufficient validity remaining. During the validity period of these visas, holders enjoy travel rights equivalent to visa-free nationals.

This decision comes in the context of strengthened relations under the EU-India Common Agenda on Migration and Mobility, which seeks comprehensive cooperation on migration policy between the EU and India, with facilitation of people-to-people contacts being of key aspect due to the importance of India as a partner for the EU. 

Schengen visas allow the holder to travel freely in the Schengen area for short stays of a maximum of 90 days in any 180-day period. The visas are not purpose-bound, but they do not grant the right to work. The Schengen area consists of 29 European countries (of which 25 are EU states): Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Germany, Estonia, Greece, Spain, France, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Hungary, Malta, Netherlands, Austria, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, Slovakia, Finland and Sweden, along with Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland.

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Hot Oceans Worsened Dubai’s Dramatic Flooding, Scientists Say

An international team of researchers found that heavy rains had intensified in the region, though they couldn’t say for sure how much climate change was responsible.

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By Raymond Zhong

Scenes of flood-ravaged neighborhoods in one of the planet’s driest regions stunned the world this month. Heavy rains in the United Arab Emirates and Oman submerged cars, clogged highways and killed at least 21 people. Flights out of Dubai’s airport, a major global hub, were severely disrupted.

The downpours weren’t a total surprise — forecasters had anticipated the storms several days earlier and issued warnings. But they were certainly unusual.

Here’s what to know.

Heavy rain there is rare, but not unheard-of.

On average, the Arabian Peninsula receives a scant few inches of rain a year, although scientists have found that a sizable chunk of that precipitation falls in infrequent but severe bursts, not as periodic showers. These rains often come during El Niño conditions like the ones the world is experiencing now.

U.A.E. officials said the 24-hour rain total on April 16 was the country’s largest since records there began in 1949 . And parts of the nation had already experienced an earlier round of thunderstorms in March.

Oman, with its coastline on the Arabian Sea, is also vulnerable to tropical cyclones. Past storms there have brought torrential rain, powerful winds and mudslides, causing extensive damage.

Global warming is projected to intensify downpours.

Stronger storms are a key consequence of human-caused global warming. As the atmosphere gets hotter, it can hold more moisture, which can eventually make its way down to the earth as rain or snow.

But that doesn’t mean rainfall patterns are changing in precisely the same way across every part of the globe.

In their latest assessment of climate research , scientists convened by the United Nations found there wasn’t enough data to have firm conclusions about rainfall trends in the Arabian Peninsula and how climate change was affecting them. The researchers said, however, that if global warming were to be allowed to continue worsening in the coming decades, extreme downpours in the region would quite likely become more intense and more frequent.

Hot oceans are a big factor.

An international team of scientists has made a first attempt at estimating the extent to which climate change may have contributed to April’s storms. The researchers didn’t manage to pin down the connection precisely, though in their analysis, they did highlight one known driver of heavy rain in the region: above-normal ocean temperatures.

Large parts of the Indian, Pacific and Atlantic Oceans have been hotter than usual recently, in part because of El Niño and other natural weather cycles, and in part because of human-induced warming .

When looking only at El Niño years, the scientists estimated that storm events as infrequent as this month’s delivered 10 percent to 40 percent more rain to the region than they would in a world that hadn’t been warmed by human activities. They cautioned, however, that these estimates were highly uncertain.

“Rainfall, in general, is getting more extreme,” said Mansour Almazroui, a climate scientist at King Abdulaziz University in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, and one of the researchers who contributed to the analysis.

The analysis was conducted by scientists affiliated with World Weather Attribution, a research collaboration that studies extreme weather events shortly after they occur. Their findings about this month’s rains haven’t yet been peer reviewed, but are based on standardized methods .

The role of cloud seeding isn’t clear.

The U.A.E. has for decades worked to increase rainfall and boost water supplies by seeding clouds. Essentially, this involves shooting particles into clouds to encourage the moisture to gather into larger, heavier droplets, ones that are more likely to fall as rain or snow.

Cloud seeding and other rain-enhancement methods have been tried around the world, including in Australia, China, India, Israel, South Africa and the United States. Studies have found that these operations can, at best, affect precipitation modestly — enough to turn a downpour into a bigger downpour, but probably not a drizzle into a deluge.

Still, experts said pinning down how much seeding might have contributed to this month’s storms would require detailed study.

“In general, it is quite a challenge to assess the impact of seeding,” said Luca Delle Monache, a climate scientist at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography in La Jolla, Calif. Dr. Delle Monache has been leading efforts to use artificial intelligence to improve the U.A.E.’s rain-enhancement program.

An official with the U.A.E.’s National Center of Meteorology, Omar Al Yazeedi, told news outlets that the agency didn’t conduct any seeding during the latest storms. His statements didn’t make clear, however, whether that was also true in the hours or days before.

Mr. Al Yazeedi didn’t respond to emailed questions from The New York Times, and Adel Kamal, a spokesman for the center, didn’t have further comment.

Cities in dry places just aren’t designed for floods.

Wherever it happens, flooding isn’t just a matter of how much rain comes down. It’s also about what happens to all that water once it’s on the ground — most critically, in the places people live.

Cities in arid regions often aren’t designed to drain very effectively. In these areas, paved surfaces block rain from seeping into the earth below, forcing it into drainage systems that can easily become overwhelmed.

One recent study of Sharjah , the capital of the third-largest emirate in the U.A.E., found that the city’s rapid growth over the past half-century had made it vulnerable to flooding at far lower levels of rain than before.

Omnia Al Desoukie contributed reporting.

Raymond Zhong reports on climate and environmental issues for The Times. More about Raymond Zhong

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