If You’re Exploring India, Start With These 36 Places
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India is one of the most diverse lands in the world. It has 28 states and 8 union territories, each offering its own unique culture, history, and sights. From the Himalayan peaks in the north to the serene beaches of the south, every corner of this country greets you with stunning views, rich histories, thrilling adventures, and breathtaking architecture. If you are planning a trip, here are the best places to visit in India — from the mountains to the coastlines.
Places to Visit in India: The North
Dal Lake, Kashmir
Almost every destination in Kashmir feels like paradise. However, the view of snow-clad mountains during a shikara ride on the serene Dal Lake is truly unmatchable. In July and August, fully bloomed lotus flowers fill the lake. During peak winter, the lake freezes over into a stunning white expanse.
Kalpa, Kinnaur
Kinnaur in Himachal Pradesh carries the name “land of fairy tales,” and Kalpa lives up to it entirely. This small town sits at 2,758 meters above sea level, flanked by the Kinnarkalash Range. Snow caps the mountains throughout the year, and by November, white covers the entire town in a breathtaking sight.
Golden Temple, Amritsar
The Golden Temple stands as the most important pilgrimage site for Sikhs worldwide and one of the most peaceful spots across India. Every night at the temple looks gorgeous, but a visit during Guru Purab is especially special. Diyas, lights, and firecrackers transform the site into a truly picturesque setting.
Tugnath Trek, Rudraprayag
Home to the highest Shiva temple in the world, the Tugnath trek rewards you with views from a height of 11,385 feet. From the trail, you can enjoy close-up views of peaks like Chaukhamba, Chandrashila, and Nandadevi.
Morni Hills, Panchkula
Morni is the only hill station in Haryana, nestled in the lower reaches of the Shivalik range. Its cool climb, beautiful natural vistas, and opportunities for trekking and rock climbing make it an ideal destination for nature and adventure lovers.
Jama Masjid, Old Delhi
Old Delhi’s charm comes alive at Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India. Emperor Shah Jahan built it between 1650 and 1656. The masjid towers against the backdrop of Old Delhi and is a must-visit during sunrise and sunset.
Kumbhalgarh Fort, Rajasthan
Kumbhalgarh Fort marks the birthplace of Mewar’s legendary king, Maharana Pratap. Rana Kumbh built this fort in the 15th century within the Aravalli ranges. Its massive wall stretches 36 km — wide enough for eight horses to ride abreast — earning it the title of the Great Wall of India.
Taj Mahal, Agra
Builders constructed the Taj Mahal in Agra between 1631 and 1648, and it remains one of the most admired architectural masterpieces in the world. For a better view, take a boat ride over the Yamuna River. A visit on a full moon night offers an absolutely breathtaking experience.
Places to Visit in India: The East
Mandar Hill, Bihar
Mandar Parbat is a 700-feet high hill that offers majestic views and holds deep significance in Indian mythology, with mentions in the Skanda Purana. Rare 12th-century sculptures of Lord Shiva, Kamdhenu, and Vara are scattered throughout the hill.
Darjeeling, West Bengal
Darjeeling sits at a height of 2,134 meters among rolling mountains, with the glistening Mount Kanchenjunga towering above. Known as the Queen of the Hills, this planned hill resort is one of the top places to visit in India. The famous toy train ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is a must-do.
Gurudongmar Lake, North Sikkim
Gurudongmar Lake lies at a height of 17,800 feet, making it the second-highest lake in India. A gorgeous sapphire blue for most of the year, the lake freezes completely during winter months.
Umgot River, Dawki, Meghalaya
Probably the cleanest river in the country, the Umgot River offers one of the most stunning boat ride experiences in Meghalaya. The water is so clear that you can see all the way to the riverbed.
Majuli River Island, Assam
India’s first river island district sits in the Brahmaputra and takes you to a paradise wrapped in nature’s warmth. A boat ride on the river and a colourful sunset make Majuli a truly unforgettable stop.
Netarhath, Jharkhand
Netarhath, the Queen of Chota Nagpur Plateau, is most popular for its stunning sunrises and sunsets during summer. This jungle-covered hill station is the coolest destination in Jharkhand.
Places to Visit in India: The Northeast
Champhai, Mizoram
A heart-shaped Reedil Lake sits at its centre, and the majestic Myanmar Hills form its backdrop — Champhai truly looks like a little piece of heaven. Colourful tribal traditions, romantic ruins, and ancient monuments make it even more serene.
Loktak Lake, Manipur
Loktak Lake is the largest natural freshwater lake in India, famous for the phumdis — floating masses of vegetation — that drift across it. On one of these phumdis sits Keibul Lamjao National Park, the only floating national park in the world.
Neer Mahal, Tripura
The largest lake palace in the country, Neer Mahal rises from the middle of the pristine Rudra Sagar Lake. It is the only palace of its kind in all of Northeast India.
Zuko Valley, Nagaland
Located on the Nagaland-Manipur border, Zuko Valley is a fairly unexplored and mesmerising destination. Stunning sunset views, verdant hills, and unique plant species make it well worth the journey.
Sela Pass, Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
This high-altitude mountain pass stays open even during winter, despite receiving heavy snowfall — a rare feat in India. A beautiful lake within the pass looks enchanting against misty mountains.
Places to Visit in India: The West
Rann of Kutch, Gujarat
The largest salt desert in the world, the Rann of Kutch is a photographer’s dream. The white ground looks resplendent against the blue sky, with the two almost meeting at the horizon. While in Kutch, make sure to visit the Indian Wild Ass Sanctuary — one of the last places on earth where these animals survive.
Sunrise Point, Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra
Mahabaleshwar is a plateau near Mumbai, surrounded by hills. The Sunrise Point within the area offers a panoramic view of the stunning landscape. Hiking enthusiasts will love the walk to the top.
Palelim Beach, Goa
Located in South Goa, Palelim Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in the state. This semicircular beach draws tourists with its picturesque natural beauty and vibrant energy. It suits both adventure seekers and leisure travellers equally well.
Diu Fort, Daman and Diu
Diu Fort is an outstanding example of Portuguese architectural style. The Portuguese built it in 1535 following a defence alliance with Bahadur Shah, the Sultan of Gujarat. The fort offers a magnificent view of the sea.
Places to Visit in India: The South
Gandikonda, Andhra Pradesh
Gandikonda, also known as the Grand Canyon of India, earns that name with good reason. Eramala Ranges form the gorge, and the crystal-clear Penna River meanders right through the middle.
Kanha National Park, Madhya Pradesh
Kanha National Park nestles in the Maikal Range of Satpuras. Its vast landscapes and surrounding meadows offer magnificent sightseeing for nature lovers. Rudyard Kipling largely based The Jungle Book on the woodlands of Kanha.
Kothumsar Cave, Chhattisgarh
Millions of years ago, this underground cave formed naturally in Kanger Valley National Park. Stalactite and stalagmite formations line the walls, and the cave still draws curious visitors from across the country.
Mukteshwar Temple, Bhubaneswar, Odisha
This 10th-century Shiva temple is a gem of Odishan architecture and the earliest known work from the Somavamsi period. A visit to Mukteshwar Temple offers an authentic architectural and cultural experience.
Golconda Fort, Hyderabad, Telangana
Golconda Fort is a round-shaped citadel that once served as the capital of a medieval sultanate. The region produced some of the world’s most famous diamonds, including the Koh-i-Noor and the Hope Diamond. Climb to the top for a sweeping view of the city.
Hampi, Karnataka
UNESCO classifies the group of monuments at Hampi as a World Heritage Site. This historic town covers 29 sq km and holds the title of the world’s largest open-air museum. Do not miss Karnataka’s megalithic site, Hire Benakal, while you are there.
Pamban Bridge, Tamil Nadu
This iconic bridge connects the town of Mandapam in mainland India with Rameswaram and Pamban Island. A section of the railway bridge opens like a gate to let ships pass through — a fascinating sight. Drive across it for a gorgeous view of the endless blue sea.
Alleppey, Kerala
Alleppey, the Venice of the East, is a backwaters district on the Laccadive Sea. A houseboat journey through its canals and lagoons, surrounded by thousands of palm trees, offers a one-of-a-kind experience in India.
Places to Visit in India: Islands and Union Territories
Agathi Island, Lakshadweep
One of India’s most scintillating landing strips, Agathi greets you with a dramatic approach over the Indian Ocean. Landing on a tiny strip surrounded by open water makes for an exciting start to a Lakshadweep vacation.
Neel Island, Andaman and Nicobar Islands
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are famous for pristine beaches and paradise-like views. Neel Island stands out even among these stunning spots. Dramatic hill formations along the beach add character and beauty to the island.
Auroville, Puducherry
Auroville is an experimental township that a group of visionaries founded in 1968. People of any nationality can live here together in pursuit of harmony and human unity. The Matri Mandir at its centre symbolises the collective aspiration for perfection.
Sukhna Lake, Chandigarh
Stretching 3 kilometres long, Sukhna Lake sparkles with water and hosts several migratory birds, including the Siberian duck and the crane. A stroll along the waterfront and a beautiful sunset make this a delightful experience.
Somoriri, Ladakh
Somoriri sits at an altitude of 14,836 feet, making it one of the most beautiful and secret high-altitude lakes in India. Migratory birds, marmots, and occasionally Tibetan wolves gather around its shores.
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