Best Places to Visit in India

India is already known as a land of mysticism and mystery, in no small part due to the portrayal of the country in movies or TV shows. However, India is also a country with a rich cultural and geographical tapestry. Whether you prefer the snow-capped mountains of the Himalayas or the serene beaches of Pondicherry, India offers a vast diversity for travelers to explore. In this post, we’ll be going through some of the best places to visit in India.

Join us on this journey from the bustling cities of Mumbai to the colonial hangover of Kolkata, from the castles of Jaipur to the party beaches of Goa. We’ll also be mentioning the best times to travel, how you can reach the place, and their key attractions.

How We Chose These Places As The Best In India

As mentioned earlier, India’s cultural heritage and geographical richness often pose travelers with a challenge. Due to this, we’ve come up with 9 factors to determine which place to put on this list. Let’s take a look at them below.

1. Budget: For any traveler, the budget is a crucial factor. Your budget will determine whether you’re planning a backpacker’s journey, a luxurious retreat, or a short family vacation. This is why you’ll find places on this list that cater to every budget segment.
2. Personal Interest: Of course, your personal interest in visiting a particular city or town will play a big part in where you travel. Whether you prioritize aspects like adventure, cuisine, festivals, or history, there are hundreds of places in India which offer you excellent experiences.
3. Infrastructure: Not every place in India is easily accessible. For example, travelers have to trek for hours to reach Spiti Valley, which is renowned for its natural beauty and hilly terrains. Then again, there are major cities like Kolkata and Hyderabad, which are easily accessible by both air and road. Moreover, the remote places tend to be underdeveloped, which means that travelers have to plan accordingly.
4. Season/Weather: India is a massive country (it’s called a sub-continent for a reason). This is why different parts of India experience varying kinds of weather conditions. It’s important to research when is the best time to visit a place in India. Find out the geographical and weather conditions of the place you want to visit, before booking your trip.
5. Safety: Whether you’re traveling alone, with your parents, partner, friends, or in a group, it’s imperative to find out how safe a particular place can be. Political situations, health infrastructure, and crime rates are crucial factors in deciding where you should visit.
6. Cultural Significance: If you’re a history buff or have an interest in architecture, you’ll be pleased to know that India offers multiple places with UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Apart from that, each place also comes with various cultural influences that also have an effect on the cuisine.
7. Festivals: India’s cultural and religious diversity also gives rise to a myriad of events and festivals all throughout the year. Visit India during the tail end of the year and you’ll be greeted to the bright lights of Diwali. Kolkata also celebrates Durga Puja during September-October every year.
8. Reviews: It’s best to research online about a place from travelers who have already experienced what the place has to offer. You’ll be even more prepared if you personally know people who have visited the destination you’re planning on. Always take advice or information from travelers to make more informed decisions.
9. Natural Attractions: India offers snowclad peaks, dry deserts, lush greenery, and pristine beach attractions. If you’re a nature lover and plan on exploring natural attractions or wildlife, India has plenty to keep your attention.

Now that the factors have been stated, let’s check out the best places in India that you should visit on your next trip:

1. Kerala

Key attractions: Varkala Beach, Trivandrum, Bekal, Cochin, Munnar, Kovalam, Thrissur

Best times to visit: September to March

How to Reach: Flight, Train, Sea, Bus

Number of Visitors Per Year: 15.9 million

Kerala’s famous tagline is “God’s Own Country”, and for good reason. India’s southernmost state is nestled on the Malabar Coast, and offers some breathtaking sceneries. Walk on sandy beaches like Varkala, trek to the beautiful Chembra Peak, and explore the delectable cuisine that the state has to offer.

Kerala’s backwaters are made up of lagoons and lakes, and offers an unforgettable experience for people who want a laid-back experience on their trip. Apart from that, the state also offers hill stations like Munnar on the Western Ghats, which provide scenic views of tea gardens. Finally, the beaches of Kerala are pristine, and the restaurants offer some of the best seafood on this side of the country.

Overall, Kerala offers something for everyone, regardless of whether you’re a domestic or international traveler.

2. Kolkata

Key attractions: Victoria Memorial Hall, Howrah Bridge, Park Street, Eco Tourism Park, Dakshineshwar Kali Temple

Best times to visit: October to February

How to Reach: Flight, Train, Sea, Bus

Number of Visitors Per Year: 42 million

The erstwhile capital of the British Raj, Kolkata is a city steeped in history, heritage, and culture. In fact, you can still see effects of the colonial hangover in the city. Regardless, the city boasts of a perfect amalgamation between the old and the new, the classic and the modern.

For foodies, Kolkata is a veritable paradise. In 2023, it was the only Indian city to feature in Eater magazine’s list of the best food destinations in the world. And, if you’re a history and architecture nerd, you’ll love to visit the Indian Museum, National Library, and even the 200-year old Presidency University, which is the oldest academic institution in all of Asia.

The city has also given birth to plenty of notable personnel. This includes the likes of Indian freedom fighter Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose, filmmaker extraordinaire Satyajit Ray, and Nobel Laureates like Amartya Sen and Abhijit Banerjee.

Moreover, Kolkata’s premier festival, Durga Puja, has now become a part of the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. The city is an ode to creativity in its truest sense.

3. Cherrapunjee

Key attractions: Nohkalikai Waterfalls, Double Decker Living Root Bridges, Dainthlen Waterfall, Dawki, Khasi Monoliths, Mawlynnong

Best times to visit: October to February

How to Reach: Bus, Car

Number of Visitors Per Year: 1.5 million

Nestled in the Northeastern Indian state of Meghalaya, Cherrapunjee is a nature lover’s paradise. Its constant rainfall during the monsoon season gives rise to lush greenery and overwhelming waterfalls. Of course, the views of the beautiful mountains is nothing to scoff at either!

Cherrapunjee also has some of the world’s oldest living root bridges. Some of these bridges are even said to be over 500 years old, and can be quite a trek for the eager adventurer. White water rafting and spelunking are other activities you can partake in, and bungee jumping is soon going to be added to the list of available adventure sports.

Whether you love nature, quiet hill stations, or treks, Cherrapunjee is worth a visit, especially during the early and late monsoon seasons.

4. Goa

Key attractions: Palolem Beach, Agonda Beach, Calangute, Panjim, Basilica of Bom Jesus

Best times to visit: November to February

How to Reach: Flight, Train, Sea, Bus

Number of Visitors Per Year: 38 million

The state of Goa is the perennial party destination for Indian youth. Goan culture is still noticeably influenced by its Portuguese colonization during the 19th century, although the state has modernized aplenty today.

If you love partying or tranquil walks along the beach, Goa is the place to be. Its bustling nightlife is complemented by the serenity of Palolem and Baga beaches, which are a couple of many. It’s also known for the ease of transportation, its cultural festivities like Sao Joao, and water sports.

All-in-all, Goa offers an experience like no other, and should be visited at least once, if you’re a regular traveler to India.

5. Mumbai

Key attractions: Sanjay Gandhi Park, Gateway of India, Marine Drive, Film City, Bandstand Promenade

Best times to visit: October to February

How to Reach: Flight, Train, Sea, Bus

Number of Visitors Per Year: 212 million

The commercial capital of India, Mumbai is one of the biggest metropolitan cities in the world. Called the City of Dreams, Mumbai has been part of multiple stories in books and Bollywood films. Its railway network is also one of the largest in the world, carrying over 7.5 million people on the daily.

Of course, like any other metropolitan city, Mumbai has a bustling nightlife, with some of the most exclusive bars, clubs, and restaurants that you can find in India.

For nature lovers, the city also offers the Sanjay Gandhi National Park right within the city limits. It also has its own beachfronts, with the most famous being Marine Drive, which offers a stunning view of the city and provides the locals a reprieve from Mumbai’s hustle culture.

Mumbai is also well-connected to hill stations, making it easier for travelers to go on treks, like the Kulsabai Peak trek. Don’t miss out on Mumbai if you’re going for a short trip to India — you won’t regret it!

6. Manali

Key attractions: Hidimba Devi Temple, Solang Valley, Gulaba, Beas Kund, Bhrigu Lake,

Best times to visit: October to February

How to Reach: Flight, Train, Bus

Number of Visitors Per Year: 17.2 million

If you love hill stations, Manali will be one of the best places in India for you. This picturesque township is situated in the Beas River valley, and offers some breathtaking views of the Himalayas. It’s a popular tourist destination in India for those who want to escape the scorching heat during the summer months.

Since the Beas River passes near the town, you’ll be able to engage in water sports, such as river rafting. And if you’ve always wanted to soar like a bird in the sky, Manali offers some of the best paragliding experiences in the country. It’s also close to multiple other villages in Himachal Pradesh, ensuring some scenic trekking trails.

Finally, there’s a little bit of a culture trip in Manali too. The town has a decent amount of Hindu and Buddhist heritage, so you’ll find plenty of old structures and temples built in a Pagoda shape. For the ultimate summer retreat, Manali should definitely be on your list!

7. Pondicherry

Key attractions: Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Paradise Beach, Promenade Beach, Auroville, Serenity Beach

Best times to visit: October to March

How to Reach: Flight, Train, Bus

Number of Visitors Per Year: 1.76 million

From the foothills of the Himalayas, we move towards the southern part of India. Pondicherry is one of the most visited places in India, and for good reason. The town was once a hub for the French colony, and you can sense over two centuries’ worth of this colonization in the town’s cobbled streets and overall architecture.

In fact, even the cuisine is heavily influenced by the French way of life. Of course, you’ll also get a taste of South Indian cooking, and the two blend beautifully to create a unique experience for your palate.

One of the biggest reasons to visit Pondicherry is its beaches. This small town offers some of the cleanest beaches in the entire country, with clear blue waters during the summer and white sands to tuck your toes into. There’s also the famous Aurobindo Ashram which can turn your stay into a meditative experience.

For one of the most relaxing trips of all time, Pondicherry is the place to be!

8. Kutch

Key attractions: Kutch Museum, Aina Mahal, Kalo Dungar, Great Rann of Kutch, Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary

Best times to visit: October to February

How to Reach: Flight, Train, Bus

Number of Visitors Per Year: 350,000

Gujarat’s Rann of Kutch is one of the most beautiful places to visit in India. In the Gujarati language “Rann” means desert, and the desert of Kutch features some of the most breathtaking sites in India. You’ll find sprawling land of white sand, as far as the eye can see.

The place is perfect for photography, videography, and to enjoy mesmerizing sunset views. It’s also far away from any major town or city, ensuring that the low light pollution provides a clear view of the starry skies at night.

Apart from this Gujarat’s culture and cuisine are a must-try. The Rann Utsav in Kutch is a festival that runs from November to January. Tourists can take in the folk performances and the music carnival, along with camel rides, to enjoy the beauty that Gujarat offers.

9. Ladakh

Key attractions: Pangong Tso, Nubra Valley, Khardung La, Thiksey Monastery, Dras War Memorial

Best times to visit: April to July

How to Reach: Flight, Train, Bus

Number of Visitors Per Year: 700,000

Ladakh is one of the most beautiful travel destinations in India. While it’s slightly more difficult to get to than the other places on this list, it’s a must-visit. Nestled between snow-capped mountains, the town offers some of the most picturesque views of lakes and hills that you’ll ever get to see.

It also has a rich cultural heritage, which is highly influenced by Buddhism and the cultures of Tibet. For adventure junkies, you’ll be able to go on treks, safaris, and even white water rafting.

Even in terms of cuisine, you’ll find a mix of Indian, Nepali, and Tibetan dishes to tickle your tastebuds. And for people who love chai (tea), they can get their fix thanks to multiple tea stalls at every corner. These turn out to be a boon if you’re going on a road trip to Ladakh or Leh with your friends!

10. Jaisalmer

Key attractions: Jaisalmer Fort, Desert National Park, Gadsisar Sagar Lake, Kuldhara Abandoned Village, Kothari’s Pathwaon-Ki-Haveli

Best times to visit: October to March

How to Reach: Flight, Train, Bus

Number of Visitors Per Year: 277,000

Rajasthan’s Jaisalmer is known as the Golden City, thanks to the characteristic yellow sandstone which is used in almost every part of the city’s architecture. This makes the city look like something carved out of a dream, especially when you’re looking at it during sunrises or sunsets.

Jaisalmer is also a city steeped in Rajasthani culture, history, and heritage. The Jaisalmer Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Sight, and houses multiple communities, who have set up markets and houses inside the fort’s structure.

Since Jaisalmer is inside the Thar Desert, it only makes sense that you end up going on a desert safari. You’ll be able to go on the back of camels or a 4X4 vehicle for your safari as well. Make sure to plan your visit to Jaisalmer in the month of March, when the Desert Festival is on at full swing, allowing you to experience Rajasthani culture and cuisine at its best!

Conclusion

India is a land of chaos and charm, and offers something for everyone here. Whether you want to explore wildlife, check out cities with centuries of history, relax on a beach, or go on a mountain trek, India’s locations offer a little bit of everything.

Moreover, with so many different cultures, you’ll be able to experience multiple festivals and cuisines to feast your senses. So, pack your bags, plan your trip to India, and let India’s geographical and cultural richness take you on an unforgettable journey!