India is a country known for its incredible diversity, both culturally and geographically. Each city and state has its own unique charm, offering a wide range of amazing holiday destinations for all types of travelers. While there are numerous places to explore, some destinations have become popular among tourists, attracting visitors time and again. In this article, we will highlight the top 15 tourist places in India that are truly worth the hype.
1. Goa:
Goa, known for its pristine beaches, laidback lifestyle, and vibrant parties, is considered one of the best holiday destinations in India. Whether you visit during the winter season when the climate is pleasant or during the offseason for a peaceful and economical getaway, Goa promises a memorable experience.
Best Time to Visit: November to February Ideal Duration: 4-5 days Places to Visit: Palolem Beach, Dudhsagar Falls, Basilica of Bom Jesus, Aguada Fort, Baga Beach, Anjuna Beach, Calangute Beach, Shree Mangesha Temple, Immaculate Conception Church Things to Do: Beach hopping, water sports, shopping at flea markets, visiting Portuguese-style churches, enjoying the nightlife, tasting authentic Goan cuisine How to Reach: Nearest Airport – Dabolim International Airport, Nearest Train Station – Vasco-Da-Gama Railway Station (North Goa); Madgaon Junction (South Goa)
2. Agra:
Agra, situated in Uttar Pradesh on the banks of the Yamuna River, is renowned for the magnificent Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. This historically rich city captivates architecture enthusiasts and history buffs with its splendid Mughal monuments. Agra is also a paradise for shoppers and food lovers.
Best Time to Visit: October to March Ideal Duration: 2 days Places to Visit: Agra Fort, Jama Masjid, Abkar’s Tomb, Itimad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb, Mehtab Bagh, Gurudwara Guru Ka Taal, Dolphin Water Park, Wildlife Conservation and Care Centre Things to Do: Boat ride on the Yamuna River, exploring famous monuments, watching the Light and Sound Show at Agra Fort, visiting Fatehpur Sikri, shopping at Kinari Bazaar, Subhash Bazaar, and TDI Mall, relishing authentic Mughlai dishes and street food How to Reach: Nearest Airport – Agra Airport; Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi, Nearest Train Station – Agra Cantonment Railway Station
3. Rajasthan:
The land of kings, is a vibrant state in northwestern India that appeals to history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, wildlife aficionados, and food connoisseurs. With its beautiful lakes, expansive deserts, rich wildlife, magnificent palaces, forts, and temples, Rajasthan offers a captivating vacation experience. Exploring the small villages along the way allows you to immerse yourself in the rich Rajasthani culture and traditions. Rajasthan is undoubtedly one of the best tourist places in India that can be visited time and again.
Best Time to Visit: November to February Ideal Duration: 6-7 days Places to Visit: Jaipur, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Bikaner, Mount Abu, Chittorgarh, Ranthambore National Park, Sariska Tiger Reserve, Keoladeo National Park Things to Do: Exploring forts and palaces, visiting temples, enjoying folk dance and music festivals like the Bikaner Camel Festival, Pushkar Fair, Gangaur Festival, Elephant Festival, and Teej, exploring wildlife parks, savoring delect
4. Delhi:
Delhi | #4 of 15 Popular Tourist Destinations in India
New Delhi, the national capital of India, is a well-known and highly visited tourist destination in the country. With its rich cultural heritage and diverse attractions, Delhi offers something for everyone. The city is adorned with iconic Mughal monuments, temples, heritage sites, performing arts venues, vibrant bazaars, modern shopping malls, planetariums, museums, and a wide range of restaurants. Chandni Chowk, the oldest and busiest market in the country, is located in Delhi. Additionally, Delhi houses significant political landmarks such as Rashtrapati Bhawan, the Parliament of India, and India Gate.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
- Ideal Duration: 3-4 days
- Top Places to Visit in Delhi: Red Fort, Humayun’s Tomb, Qutub Minar, Lotus Temple, Akshardham Temple, Purana Qila, Jantar Mantar, Gurudwara Bangla Sahib Ji, Nehru Park, Janpath Market
- Things to Do in Delhi: Explore Connaught Place, Sarojini Nagar Market, and Hauz Khas Village; savor delicacies at Parathe Wali Gali; shop for handicrafts, souvenirs, and antiques at Dilli Haat; experience Delhi’s vibrant nightlife; take a HoHo bus tour
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Indira Gandhi International Airport
- Nearest Train Station: New Delhi Railway Station
Explore budget hotels in Delhi
5. Varanasi:
Varanasi | #11 of 15 Popular Tourist Destinations in India
Varanasi, also known as Banaras, is a revered city located on the banks of the holy River Ganga in Uttar Pradesh, India. It holds immense significance as one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world and is considered one of the holiest places for Hindus. Varanasi attracts devotees and tourists from all over the globe who seek spiritual solace and a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of India. The city is renowned for its numerous temples, picturesque ghats, and vibrant rituals. Taking a dip in the sacred Ganges is believed to cleanse one’s sins, offering a chance at salvation.
- Best Time to Visit: November to February
- Ideal Duration: 2-3 days
- Top Places to Visit in Varanasi: Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Dashashwamedh Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, Ramnagar Fort, Shri Durga Temple, Kaal Bhairav Temple, Sarnath Museum, Sankatmochan Temple
- Things to Do in Varanasi: Seek blessings at temples, indulge in delectable Banarasi cuisine and sweets, shop for Banarasi silk sarees at Thateri Bazaar, Vishwanath Gali, and Temple Bazaar
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Varanasi’s Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport
- Nearest Train Station: Varanasi Junction
Discover the spiritual and cultural heritage of Varanasi with our travel packages!
6. Manali:
Manali | #7 of 15 Popular Tourist Destinations in India
Situated in the Kullu Valley of Himachal Pradesh, Manali is a renowned tourist destination known for its natural beauty and tranquility. The hill station attracts visitors from all over the country, especially during the summer season when people seek respite from the scorching heat of the cities. Manali offers breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, dense forests, river valleys, and sparkling streams, making it a popular destination for nature lovers. It also showcases a unique blend of rich cultural heritage and modernization. Apart from enjoying the serenity and natural beauty, visitors can engage in thrilling adventure activities for a memorable vacation.
- Best Time to Visit: October to June
- Ideal Duration: 3-4 days
- Top Places to Visit in Manali: Manu Temple, Hidimba Devi Temple, Museum of Himachal Culture and Folk Art, Jogini Falls, Himalayan Nyinmapa Tibetan Buddhist Temple, Nehru Kund, Mall Road
- Things to Do in Manali: Paragliding, parachuting, and horse riding at Solang Valley, mountain biking, skiing, and sledge riding at Rohtang Pass, trekking, river rafting, ziplining, and zorbing
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Bhuntar Airport
- Nearest Train Station: Joginder Nagar Railway Station
Looking for couple-friendly accommodation in Manali? Check out our list!
7. Ooty:
Ooty | #8 of 15 Popular Tourist Destinations in India
Ooty is a highly visited holiday destination for tourists from Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka. This picturesque and serene hill station provides a much-needed escape from the summer heat of southern India. Ooty offers stunning views of the Nilgiri Hills, lush green landscapes adorned with alpine woods, crystal-clear lakes, emerald green tea estates, and colorful blossoms. The town is also famous for the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, which is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Best Time to Visit: October to June
- Ideal Duration: 2-3 days
8: Kolkata:
Kolkata, also known as the City of Joy, attracts tourists from all corners of the country. This captivating city is a perfect blend of art, culture, fashion, and literature, making it an ideal destination for diverse travelers. It offers a delightful experience for food lovers, shopaholics, and nightlife enthusiasts alike. Kolkata seamlessly combines old-world charm with modernization, featuring historical monuments, temples, trams, science museums, colossal shopping malls, and fine dining restaurants. Whether you seek a glimpse of the past or an immersion in contemporary life, Kolkata promises a memorable vacation.
- Best Time to Visit: October to February
- Ideal Duration: 4-5 days
- Top Places to Visit in Kolkata: Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge, Science City, Kalighat, Dakshineshwar Kali Temple, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Belur Math, Eden Gardens, Indian Museum
- Things to Do in Kolkata: Enjoy water rides and roller coasters at Nicco Park, spend peaceful time at Eco Park, savor lip-smacking street food, explore Park Street
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport
- Nearest Train Station: Howrah Railway Station; Sealdah Railway Station
Embark on a captivating journey to Kolkata, where joy awaits you at every turn!
9. Amritsar:
Imbued with history and spirituality, Amritsar stands as one of the most visited cities in Punjab, India. It is home to the renowned Golden Temple or Sri Harmandir Sahib, drawing devoted Sikhs and tourists from around the world. The city kindles patriotic sentiments with attractions like Jallianwala Bagh and Wagah Border. Amritsar’s charm beckons visitors to pay their respects at the Golden Temple and witness the mesmerizing Wagah-Attari Border ceremony, a daily event at the India-Pakistan border.
- Best Time to Visit: November to March
- Ideal Duration: 3-4 days
- Top Places to Visit in Amritsar: Akal Takht, Durgiana Temple, Attari Wagah Border, Partition Museum, Gobindgarh Fort, Central Sikh Museum, War Memorial and Museum, Gurudwara Shaheed Ganj Sahib
- Things to Do in Amritsar: Indulge in Punjabi cuisine and street food, participate in ‘Langar Seva’ (communal kitchen service) at the Golden Temple, shop for colorful souvenirs
Shimla
Shimla | #15 of 15 Popular Tourist Destinations in India
Nestled in the enchanting hills of Himachal Pradesh at an altitude of 2276 meters above sea level, Shimla has been a beloved destination for honeymooners and families for generations. This hill station served as the summer capital of British India, and its captivating colonial architecture and old-world charm continue to leave visitors spellbound. Shimla captivates nature enthusiasts with its snow-capped mountains, picturesque valleys, and serene lakes. Notably, it boasts the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Kalka-Shimla train route, offering breathtaking views of the hills and villages. Adventure activities, delectable local cuisine, and cozy cafes and hotels add to the allure of
10. Shimla:
- Best Time to Visit: March to June
- Ideal Duration: 3-4 days
- Top Places to Visit in Shimla: Mall Road, Kufri, Green Valley, Jakhu Temple, Chail, The Ridge, Shimla Christ Church, Narkanda, Himalayan Bird Park, Annandale, Himachal State Museum, Theog, Kali Bari Temple
- Things to Do in Shimla: Indulge in mouth-watering food and cocktails at Café Shimla Point, experience a toy train ride, go skiing, trekking, or horse riding
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Shimla’s Jubbarhatti Airport; Chandigarh International Airport
- Nearest Train Station: Kalka Railway Station; Chandigarh Railway Station
Discover the allure of Shimla as you immerse yourself in its timeless beauty and embrace the tranquility of the hills.
So, these are a few of the highly sought-after tourist destinations in India that draw in numerous visitors year after year, captivated by their natural beauty and remarkable attractions. As these locations tend to be popular during peak seasons, it is advisable to book your flights and hotels well in advance, whether you’re heading to Goa, Delhi, or any other destination. By doing so, you can secure great deals and ensure availability. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tranquil vacation, consider planning your trip during the off-season when these places are less crowded, and hotel rates are more budget-friendly. No matter when you choose to explore these destinations, you are bound to create cherished memories that will stay with you for a lifetime.
