India Awaits – India is a country with a wide variety of landscapes that offers experiences to people of all ages. A city full of natural beauty and natural history extends a warm welcome to all visitors. India is stunning in several ways, from the majestic Taj Mahal to the regal palaces, from the verdant, scenic beauty of Kerala to the snow-capped mountains of Kashmir. Among the top 12 places to visit in India are Kashmir, Rajasthan, Sikkim, Kerala, Manali, Leh Ladakh, Varanasi, Goa, Rishikesh, Himachal Pradesh, Nainital, Andaman and Nicobar Islands. This country has such a strong sense of tradition and culture that it would entice people to learn more about its rich past and lively culture. India Awaits have curated this list of the best places to visit in India on your next holiday vacation here.
1. Kashmir (Paradise on Earth): Kashmir, located in the northernmost part of the nation and endowed with incredible natural beauty and a multitude of adventures, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. Kashmir provides two distinct experiences: one in the summer when the valley appears captivating with its verdant surroundings and snow-capped mountains in the distance, and another in the winter when it is completely blanketed in white snow. This place will constantly offer you with a pleasant experience, regardless of when you plan to visit.
- Best Time to Visit: Snowfall occurs in February and December, but a green environment is seen from March to October.
- How to Reach: Kashmir has excellent air connectivity, making it relatively simple to travel from various regions of India and other locations.
- By Air: The primary airport serving Srinagar, the capital of Kashmir, is Srinagar Airport. Several different domestic and international flights link to the airport. You can hire a taxi to go to your destination from outside the airport.
- By Train: The nearest train station to Kashmir is Jammu Tawi Railway Station, which is around 290 kilometers away. One can travel from various states of India via train to Kashmir.
- By Road: You can go by road from Jammu or another neighboring location to Kashmir.
- Nearest Airport: Srinagar Airport.
- Places to Visit: Srinagar, Gulmarg, Jammu City, Sonamarg, Leh, Pahalgam, Pulwama, Shankaracharya Hill, Indira Gandhi Tulip Garden, Betaab Valley, Nigeen Lake.
- Things to Do: Shikara ride in Dal Lake, Gondola ride, pony rides in Pahalgam, stay in a houseboat, Golfing in Kashmir, rafting in Kashmir, camping in Kashmir, shopping in Kashmir
- Adventures to Try: River rafting at Lidder River, Trekking in Ladakh, Golfing, Skiing and snowboarding in Gulmarg, hot air balloon ride, Golfing, camping.
- Famous Food: Mutton Rogan Josh, Rista, Paneer Chaman, Yakhni Lamb Curry, Kahva, Kaladi Kulcha, Phirni, Goshtaba, Modur Pulao.
- Best Places to Stay: The Heritage by Heevan, Lalit Grand Palace in Srinagar, Rah Villas Hotel, The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa in Gulmarg, The Orchard Retreat & Spa, Lemon Tree Hotel Srinagar.
- Best Shopping Markets: Residency Road, Lal Chowk, Tibetan Market, Badshah Chowk, Polo View Market.
2. Rajasthan (Lands of Kings): Rajasthan is one of the most culturally rich places to go in India, which is famous for its magnificent palaces, insightful history and rich heritage. Rajasthan’s colorful and eccentric marketplaces, imposing forts, hospitable locals, and dynamic culture will entice you to stay longer. Due to the abundance of romantic activities available, it is also a perfect location for a honeymoon. Rajasthan presents tourists with an abundance of attractions, ranging from expansive deserts to alluring hills and lakes.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March.
- How to Reach: Different Cities in India are well connected via air, road, and train.
- By Air: Most international flights into Rajasthan land at Jaipur International Airport, which is the state’s primary airport. From there, people can travel around the state via bus or cab. Other important airports are Maharana Pratap Airport and Jodhpur Airport.
- By Train: Daily Trains available from Mumbai, Delhi, Srinagar and other cities of India that will take you to Rajasthan.
- By Road: Rajasthan is easily accessible by road from nearby cities like Delhi and Agra. additionally, the state has excellent road connectivity. Regular buses both government and private buses are also available.
- Main Airports: Jaipur International Airport, Maharana Pratap Airport Udaipur, Jodhpur Airport.
- Places to Visit in Rajasthan: Jaipur, Udaipur, Pushkar, Jaisalmer, Mount Abu, Jodhpur, Bikaner, Ajmer, Chittorgarh, Bharatpur
- Things to Do: Shop for traditional Products, Dessert camping, Safari rides, Attend the Pushkar Fair, Take a heritage tour, visit different temples, Zip Lining, Camel Safari, Elephants at Dera Amer, Dune Bashing
- Best Place to Stay: The Oberoi Udaivillas, Amanbagh, Umaid Bhawan Palace, Tree House Resort, The Leela Palace Udaipur
- Famous Foods: Dal Bati Churma, Lal Maas, Kachoris, Rabri Ghevar
- Best Shopping Markets: Bapu Bazaar & Johri Bazaar in Jaipur, Bada Bazaar & Hathi pol Bazaar in Udaipur, Nai Sadak & clock Tower market in Jodhpur.
3. Sikkim (Land of Peace): When it comes to peace and natural beauty, the northeastern region of India is nothing short of a paradise. Blessed with a beautiful landscape, Sikkim is one place that can provide a soul-satisfying experience to someone seeking rest and rejuvenation. Sikkim, one of the most popular vacation spots in India, is frequented by travelers seeking a peaceful getaway, an exciting adventure, or a peaceful honeymoon. It is also for endless adventure activities and exotic wildlife.
- Best Time to Visit: May to September.
- How to Reach: Aviation is the most convenient way to go to Sikkim from various Indian cities.
- By Air: The primary airport in this region is Bagdogra Airport in West Bengal, which offers excellent international connections.
- By Train: The primary railhead in the state, New Jalpaiguri Railway Station in Siliguri, is well-connected to other important Indian cities.
- By Road: Nearby cities like Darjeeling in West Bengal and others can be accessible by road to Sikkim.
- Nearest Airport: Bagdogra Airport in West Bengal.
- Popular Attractions: Baba Hanuman Mandir, Tsomgo Lake, Nathu La Pass, Yumthang Valley, Teesta River, Gangtok, Pelling.
- Adventures to Try: Trekking, river rafting, Bungee jumping at Singshore Bridge, carving, mountain biking, Yak riding, paragliding in Gangtok, Goecha La Trek, Sandakphu Trek, Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek, rafting in Teesta, cycling on Silk Route, Hang gliding in Skkim, Singalila Trek.
- Best Places to Stay: Udaan Oilive Hotel & Spa, welcome Heritage Denzong Regency, Mayfair Resort Spa & Casino, Lemon Tree Hotel, Gangtok, The Fern Denzong Hotel & Spa Gangtok.
- Famous Food: Famous food of Sikkim is Thukpa, Phagshapa, Momos, Kodo ko Roti, Dal Bhaat, Sel Rioti.
- Best Shopping Markets: Lal Bazaar, New Market, MG Road, old Bazaar, Directorate of Handicrafts.
4. Kerala (God’s Own Country): If you’re the type of person who prefers to spend time in nature or in the peace of an abundantly green setting that experiences year-round beautiful weather, then we recommend you to visit Kerala, a gem in South India and also Gods own country. One of the best place to visit in India, Kerala offers a warm welcome to all visitors and a wide range of exciting activities for them to partake in. This location is worth visiting in India because of the alluring scenery, gorgeous lakes, crisp skies, fragrant air from just harvested Indian spices, and magnificent backwaters.
- Best Time to Visit: Kerala is visited at any time of the year, however, the ideal time for travel in Kerala is December to February.
- How to Reach: Four main airlines in Kerala serve both domestic as well as international flights.
- By Air: Kerala boasts four major international airports, making this the fastest route to get there. Every day, several flights are offered from various Indian or international cities.
- By Train: The state of Kerala may be reached at a reasonable cost because of its extensive rail network, although getting there takes some time, particularly if you’re coming from northern India.
- By Road: Kerala has an excellent network of highways, including NH 66, NH 85, NH 184, NH 544, and others, making it accessible by car as well.
- Main Airport: Trivandrum International Airport, Cochin International Airport, Kannur International Airport, Kozhikode International Airport
- Popular Places to Visit: Thrissur, Munnar, Alleppey, Kumarakom, Wayanad, Kozhikode, Kovalam, Kannur, Varkala, Thekkady, Trivandrum, Lighthouse Beach in Kovalam, Periyar National Park, Venbanad Beach, Chinese Fishing Net, Mattancherry Palace, Guruvayur Temple and Athirapally Waterfalls are some of the best places to visit in India.
- Things to Do: Witness a snake Boat race, Enjoy a Houseboat stay, enjoy a spice plantation tour, visit coffee and tea plantations, enjoy a relaxing spa, Beaches, Ayurvedic Treatment, and Eco-Tourism.
- Adventures to Try: Snorkeling, Kayaking, Cycling, Mountain Climbing, Bamboo Rafting, Trekking, Canoeing, Water Adventure Sports.
- Best Places to Stay: Oberoi Vrinda, The Leela, Somatheeram Ayurveda Resort, Rainforest Boutique Resort, Brunton Boatyard, Chandys Windy Woods, Blanket Hotel & Spa, Gokulam Grand.
- Famous Food: Puttu and Kadala curry, Karimeen Pollichathu (fish), Appam with stew, Palada Payasam (dessert), Erissery or Pumpkin and Lentil curry, Malabar Parotta with Kerala Beef curry, Kerala prawn curry, Thalassery biryani.
- Best Shopping Markets: Chalai Bazaar in Trivandrum, Broadway Street Market in Kochi, Kochi, Ernakulam market, Mattanchery spice market.
5. Manali (Valley of the Gods): Located in the himalayan foothills, in the northern Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, Manali is replete with lush forests, snowy mountains, numerous water bodies, and hilly terrains. Manali is one of the most popular summer holiday destinations tourist place in India because of its lush green panorama, pleasant climate, and scenic beauty. Tourists from all over the world travel to these locations to see the museums and temples, the charming tiny hippie villages and the busy posh districts, the river excursions and the trekking routes. It is said to be one of the most beautiful place in India. People might enjoy going to the little restaurants, cafes, and local markets. Manali residents frequently travel to the Solang Valley to escape the bustle of the city.
- Best Time to Visit: July to September.
- How to Reach: The distance between the Bhuntar airport and Manali, which has good bus and taxi service, is about 50 km. overnight buses are also operating on the route between Delhi to Manali.
- By Air: The closest airport is Kullu Manali Airport. Even the busy, which are available in most of North India’s locations, can be taken by people. Manali is easily accessible and trouble-free.
- By Rail: The closest train station from Manali is located in Joginder Nagar. By rail, one can travel without difficulty and with ease.
- Nearest Airport: Kullu Manali Airport
- Popular Places to Visit: Old Manali, Solang Valley, Jogini Waterfall, Museum of Himachal Culture and Folk Art, Hidimba Devi Temple, Manu Temple.
- Things to Do: Paragliding at SolangValley, White water rafting, Skiing at Himalayan Ski village, Trekking, and exciting activities at the Rohtang pass.
- Adventures to Try: Paragliding and Skiing, river rafting.
- Best Places to Stay: The Holiday Villa Resort & Spa, Span Resort and Spa, Om Cottage, Shivadya- A Boutique Hotel, Larisa Resort Manali, Hotel Greenfield, Village House Manali.
- Famous Foods: Babru (Kachori), Tudkiya Bhat, Chha Ghost, Khatta, Chana Madra, Mittha, Bhey, Siddu.
- Best Shopping Markets: Manali Mall Market, Mall Road, Old Manali Market, Himachal Emporium, Tibetan Market, Manu Market.
6. Leh Ladakh: Ladakh is renowned for its breathtaking murals, prayer flags, whitewashed stupas, red-robed monks, and Gompas—Tibetan Buddhist monasteries. One of the coldest deserts on Earth, it is stated that only a man sitting in the sun with his feet in the heat can have both frostbite and sunstroke at the same time. It is one of the famous tourist place in India as it is known for its culture that is similar to Tibet. It is often called the adventure playground as people can enjoy jeep tours, high-altitude trekking, jeep tours, and rafting.
- Best Time to Visit: October
- How to Reach:
- By Air: Leh Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport is the primary and nearest airport in Leh. Air travel is a simple and trouble-free option for people. Since there are excellent road connections, one can even travel by bus.
- By Rail: The nearest train station to Leh is Jammu Tawi, which has excellent connections to Chandigarh and Pathankot.
- Nearest Airport: Leh Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport.
- Place to Visit: Spituk Gompa, Palace, Shanti Stupa, Pangong Lake, Tso Moriri, Magnetic Hill, Nubra Valley, Zanskar Valley, Spituk Gompa, Kargil, Khardung-la pass, Diskit Monastery.
- Things to Do: Fluttering prayer flags, Explore the stunning Gompas (Tibetan Buddhist monasteries), Murals, Whitewashed stupas, red-robed monks, camping at Pangong Tso Lake, river rafting at Zanskar River.
- Adventure to Try: Jeep tours, climbing, high-altitude trekking, and rafting.
- Best Place to Stay: Ladakh Villa, Hotel Jan palace, Grand Dragon Ladakh, Gomang-Boutique hotel, Yarab Tso, and Shaolin Ladakh.
- Famous Foods: Momos, Thukpa, Chutagi, Tingmo, Sky, Chhurpi, Chang, Butter tea.
- Best Shopping Markets: Tibetan market, Leh main bazaar, Dalai Lama Charitable Trust handicraft emporium, Himalayan pashmina shawls.
7. Varanasi: Adorned by a spiritual vibe, and beautiful ghat, Varanasi is one of the most charismatic and vibrant place to visit in India. A beautiful sight to behold is the serene and peaceful ghats that are lit up by thousands of Diya during the morning and evening Arti. One of the best destinations to go in October in India is Varanasi, where you can see the incredible beauty of both God and the natural world.
- Best Time to Visit: October to February.
- How to Reach: The closest airport to Varanasi is Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport which is connected to major international airports in Mumbai and Delhi. Buses and trains are also operating from other places in India to Varanasi.
- Nearest Airport: Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport.
- Places to Visit: Dasaswamedh Ghat, Ganges River, Manikarnika Ghat, Assi Ghat, Dhamek Stups.
- Things to Do: Witness the evening and morning arti and boat rides.
- Best Places to Stay: Costa Riviera Hotel, Radisson Hotel Varanasi, Ramada by Windham.
- Famous Foods: Chena dahi vada, Kachori Sabji, dahi chutney Golgappe, chooda matar, Baati Chokha or Litti Chokha, Banarasi Thandai and lassi, Banarasi paan.
8. Goa (Beaches and places of worship): Goa, with its majestic waterfalls, scheduled beaches, and happening nightlife, is one of the best holiday destinations to visit in India. Goa is on the list of every traveler who enjoys beaches, from being the center of backpackers to being the world’s greatest location for bachelor celebrations. Few people are aware that Goa can also be the most tranquil location, despite being a popular tourist destination with planned beach parties and clubs.
- Best Time to Visit: November to February.
- How to Reach: Through flights to Dabolim International Airport, Goa is connected to important locations across the globe. Traveling from India, there are buses, trains, and ferries available for commuting.
- By Air: Dabolim Airport serves as the primary airport for both domestic and international travel. Road travel is also an option because buses and railroads connect it well.
- By Train: There are two stations in Goa which are Vasco-da-gama, and Madgaon. From Mumbai, one can board the Konkan Kanya Express and from Delhi, the Nizamuddin Goa Express. Goa is well connected by rail.
- Nearest Airport: Dabolim International Airport.
- Places To Visit: Fort Aguada, Calangute Beach, Anjuna Beach, Dudhsagar falls, Baga Beach, Chapora fort.
- Things to Do: Scuba Diving, Snorkeling, Ocean Trek, Sailing, hot air ballooning, rafting and canoeing.
- Best Places to Stay: The Zuri white sands, Goa Resort & Casino, the 0 Hotel Beach Resort and Spa, Hyatt Centric Candolim, Bay15.
- Famous Foods: Fish curry rice, Vindaloo, feni, bebinca, Sorpotel, Xacuti, and Rava fried fish.
- Best Shopping Markets: Aston supermarket, Goa horticulture store.
9. Rishikesh (Place of Sagas): When it comes to thrill and adventure, Rishikesh is one of the most visited place in India. The city which is surrounded by the lush greenery of Uttarakhand, is well known for outdoor activities including river rafting. The Ghats by the sacred Ganga River are a site of great spiritual beauty, drawing many devotees to Rishikesh. In addition to attracting visitors from throughout India, Rishikesh’s reviving atmosphere and blissful yoga attract people from nearly every continent.
- Best Time to Visit: February to May September to November.
- How to Reach: The closest airport to Rishikesh is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun. As soon as you land at Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, you can even catch a bus. Rishikesh is well connected to many other hill stations and tourist attractions in India.
- Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport.
- Places to Visit: Lakshman Jhoola, Triveni ghat, Tryambakeshvar temple, beatless ashram, Tapovan, Har ki Pauri.
- Things to Do: River rafting, cliff jumping, attending the morning and evening arti, and visiting the temples.
- Best Places to Stay: Swiss cottage Rishikesh, Ganges river in Rishikesh, Vedas Tapovan, Treebo trend Andaman resort.
- Best Shopping Markets: Gole market, Lakshman Jhula market, Shyampur Haat bazaar, Rishikesh main market.
10. Shimla, Himachal Pradesh (Fruit Bowl of India): Also known as the capital of Himachal Pradesh, is a popular Indian hill station. The city is well-known for the Mall Road and its classic colonial architecture.
- Best Time to Visit: May to June and December to January.
- How to Reach:
- By Plane: Chandigarh Airport
- By Train: Kalka railway station
- By Road: The cities of North India are well connected to Shimla. You can take a bus from Himachal Pradesh, Manali, and Delhi to reach Shimla.
- Best Places to Visit: Jakhoo hill and temple, The Ridge, Kalka Shimla Railwa, Mall Road, Kufri, Christ Church, etc.
- Things to Do: Go for a shopping spree at Lakkar Bazaar, Pass through the green hills by enjoying the toy ride, witness the beauty of Chadwick waterfalls, Raft at Tattapani, and go camping in the woods.
- Best Places to Stay: The whitestone resorts, fortune park Dalhousie, Best western plus Revanta, Larisa Shimla, The Orchard greens resort, Snow valley heights.
- Famous Foods: Siddu, Madra, Babru, Bhey or spicy lotus stems, Tudkiya Bhath, Dham, Aktori, Chha gosht.
- Best Shopping Markets: Tibetan market, Kotwali Bazar road, Lakkar bazaar, Akhara bazaar, Jogibara road bazar.
11. Nanital, Uttarakhand (Lake District): Nanital, often referred to as the “Lake District of India”, is known for its shimmering Naini Lake, which forms the heart of the town. The mall road is lined with restaurants, shops, and hotels offering a delightful experience to visitors. On the northern edge of Naini Lake lies the sacred spiritual site known as the Naina Devi Temple, which is devoted to the goddess Naina Devi. Due to its religious significance and breathtaking lake vistas, it draws both visitors and devotion.
- Best Time to Visit: March to June and September to October.
- How to Reach: The nearest airport to Nainital is Pantnagar Airport, and the nearest railway station is Kathgodam railway station.
- Best Places to Visit: Naina Devi temple, Jim Corbett National Park, Naini Lake, Mall Road, Naina Peak, Eco Cave Gardens, Nainital Zoo, Raj Bhawan, Kilbury, Kainchi Dham, Naina Devi bird reserve.
- Things to Do: Cable car riding, boating, exploring the eco cave gardens and cave garden, shopping for Souvenirs and local handicrafts.
- Places to Stay: Hotels near Mallital, Hotels in Mall Road, Shervani Hilltop Nainital.
- Famous Foods: Ras, Bhatt ki Churkani, Baadi, Gulgula, Kafuli, Aloo Ke Gutke, Bal Mithai, Chainsoo.
- Best Shopping Markets: Bara Bazaar, Tibetan market.
12. Andaman and Nicobar Islands: Andaman and Nicobar Islands are among the best islands in Asia where you can easily spend a romantic vacation. Tourists are drawn to one of the most stunning locations in India by the deep blue ocean waters that are home to hundreds of aquatic life forms and an extensive colony of coral reefs. There are luxury beach resorts and golden beaches where you can enjoy leisure. Every vacationer seeking a peaceful haven flocks to the islands because of its tranquility.
- Best Time to Visit: October to May.
- How to Reach: You can board a flight to Port Blair or Vir Savarkar Airport. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are connected to popular tourist destinations in India, such as Chennai, by ferry and cruises.
- Nearest Airport: Vir Savarkar Airport.
- Best Places to Visit: Wandoor Beach, Radhanagar beach, Merk Bay beach, Corbyn’s cove, Radhanagar beach, Ross Island.
- Things to Do: Madhban Trek, Witness the Bioluminescence, Scuba diving, Mangrove Kayaking, Snorkeling.
- Best Places to Stay: Coral Reef resort, Tango beach resort, Munjoh Ocean resort, J hotel, Fortune resort Bay islands.
- Famous Foods: Machher Jhol, Coconut prawn curry, Grilled lobster, Chilli curry, Amritsari Kulcha.
