India is a land of incredible diversity, with a rich history and culture that is reflected in its many popular tourist destinations. Some of the best things to do in India include exploring the ancient forts and palaces of Rajasthan, experiencing the spirituality of Varanasi, taking a houseboat ride on the backwaters of Kerala, admiring the stunning beauty of the Taj Mahal, trekking in the Himalayas, and indulging in the delicious local cuisine. With so much to offer, India is sure to provide a memorable experience for every type of traveler.
India is a country that is known for its diverse landscapes, rich culture, and history. The country has something for everyone, from stunning natural landscapes to ancient temples, from bustling cities to serene beaches. Here are some of the best places to visit in India:
1. Agra
Agra is a city located in the state of Uttar Pradesh and is home to one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Taj Mahal. The Taj Mahal is a mausoleum built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal. The intricate carvings and beautiful gardens surrounding the Taj Mahal make it a must-visit destination.
Apart from the Taj Mahal, Agra has several other popular attractions such as the Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri. The Agra Fort was built in the 16th century and served as the main residence of the Mughal emperors until the capital was shifted to Delhi. The fort is known for its beautiful architecture and intricate carvings. Fatehpur Sikri is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located 40 km away from Agra. It was built in the 16th century by Emperor Akbar and served as the capital of the Mughal Empire for a brief period.
Agra is easily accessible by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, which is located around 200 km away from Agra.
2. Jaipur
Jaipur, also known as the Pink City, is the capital city of the state of Rajasthan. The city is known for its beautiful palaces, forts, and colorful bazaars. The City Palace, Hawa Mahal, and Amber Fort are some of the popular tourist attractions in Jaipur.
The City Palace is a complex of several buildings, courtyards, and gardens. It was built in the 18th century by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II and is a fine example of Rajasthani architecture. The Hawa Mahal is a palace located in the heart of the city and is known for its unique architecture. It has 953 small windows, also known as jharokhas, which were built to allow the women of the royal household to observe the street festivals without being seen. The Amber Fort is located around 11 km away from Jaipur and is known for its beautiful architecture and intricate carvings.
Apart from the palaces and forts, Jaipur is also known for its vibrant culture and delicious cuisine. The city is easily accessible by road, rail, and air. The Jaipur International Airport is located around 13 km away from the city center.
3. Kerala
Kerala is a state located in the southern part of India and is known for its palm-lined beaches, serene backwaters, and lush green landscapes. It is also known as the “God’s Own Country.” The backwaters of Kerala offer a unique experience to travelers where they can cruise through the calm waters and witness the beauty of the state.
3.1 Munnar
Munnar is a hill station in Kerala known for its tea plantations and scenic views. The cool climate and beautiful landscape make it a perfect destination for nature lovers. The town is located at an altitude of 1600 meters above sea level and is surrounded by the Western Ghats. The tea plantations in Munnar are spread across several hills and offer a picturesque view. Travelers can also visit the Eravikulam National Park, which is home to several endangered species such as the Nilgiri Tahr.
3.2 Alleppey
Alleppey, also known as Alappuzha, is a coastal town in Kerala that is famous for its backwaters. Travelers can take a houseboat cruise through the backwaters and witness the beauty of the state. The houseboats are equipped with all the necessary amenities and provide a comfortable stay. Apart from the backwaters, Alleppey is also known for its beaches and temples.
3.3 Kochi
Kochi, also known as Cochin, is a city located in Kerala that is known for its rich history and culture. The city has several popular attractions such as the Fort Kochi, Mattancherry Palace, and the Jewish Synagogue. Fort Kochi is a historic town that has several colonial-era buildings and is known for its Chinese fishing nets. Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, is a palace that was built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and later renovated by the Dutch. The palace is known for its beautiful architecture and houses several murals and artifacts. The Jewish Synagogue is one of the oldest synagogues in the world and is known for its beautiful architecture and history.
Kerala is easily accessible by road, rail, and air. The Cochin International Airport is located around 25 km away from the city center.
4. Goa
Goa is a state located in the western part of India and is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and colonial architecture. The state has a unique blend of Indian and Portuguese culture and is a popular destination for travelers.
Some of the popular beaches in Goa include Anjuna Beach, Baga Beach, and Calangute Beach. These beaches offer a perfect setting for travelers to relax, sunbathe, and enjoy water sports such as surfing and parasailing. The state also has several churches and temples that are worth visiting. The Basilica of Bom Jesus, located in Old Goa, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its beautiful architecture and history.
Goa is easily accessible by road, rail, and air. The Goa International Airport is located around 30 km away from the city center.
5. Ladakh
Ladakh is a region located in the northernmost part of India and is known for its stunning landscapes and unique culture. The region is surrounded by the Himalayas and is home to several high-altitude lakes, monasteries, and trekking trails.
Some of the popular tourist attractions in Ladakh include Pangong Tso Lake, Nubra Valley, and Hemis Monastery. Pangong Tso Lake is a high-altitude lake that is located at an altitude of around 4,350 meters above sea level. The lake is known for its crystal clear waters and scenic surroundings. Nubra Valley is a high-altitude desert that is located around 150 km away from Leh, the capital of Ladakh. The valley is known for its sand dunes and unique landscape. Hemis Monastery is one of the oldest and largest monasteries in Ladakh and is known for its beautiful architecture and history.
Ladakh is easily accessible by road and air. The Leh Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport is located around 3 km away from Leh.
6. Varanasi
Varanasi, also known as Banaras, is a city located in the state of Uttar Pradesh and is known for its rich history and culture. The city is located on the banks of the River Ganges and is considered one of the holiest cities in India.
The city has several popular attractions such as the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Dashashwamedh Ghat, and Sarnath. Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the most famous and sacred temples in India and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is known for its beautiful architecture and religious significance. Dashashwamedh Ghat is one of the most popular ghats in Varanasi and is known for its evening aarti ceremony, where devotees gather to offer prayers to the River Ganges. Sarnath is an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists and is located around 10 km away from Varanasi. The site is known for its ancient Buddhist ruins and temples.
Apart from the popular attractions, Varanasi is also known for its vibrant street life, where travelers can explore the local markets and taste the local cuisine. The city is famous for its paan, a preparation of betel leaf that is filled with various spices and sweeteners.
Varanasi is easily accessible by road, rail, and air. The Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport is located around 18 km away from the city center. The city is well-connected by rail and road to other parts of India.
India is a land of diversity and beauty, with a rich history and culture that is reflected in its many magnificent destinations. From the majestic Himalayas to the serene backwaters of Kerala, India has something to offer every kind of traveler.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, spirituality, or just a chance to soak in the vibrant energy of a new place, India is sure to leave a lasting impression on your soul. We hope this guide has given you a glimpse into the best places to visit in India, and that it inspires you to embark on your own unforgettable journey through this incredible country.
Remember to always respect the local culture and traditions, and to travel responsibly. Happy travels!
