tourist attraction list of india

16 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in India

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Mar 19, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

India is a vibrant land of startling contrasts where both the traditional and modern worlds meet. The world's seventh largest nation by area and the second largest in terms of population, India boasts a rich heritage that's the result of centuries of different cultures and religions leaving their mark.

Things to do in India include the opportunity to experience an array of sacred sites and spiritual encounters, while nature lovers will enjoy its sun-washed beaches, lush national parks, and exciting wildlife sanctuaries.

From the magnificent Taj Mahal in Agra to the holy sites of Harmandir Sahib (formerly the Golden Temple) in Amritsar and the Mecca Masjid mosque in Hyderabad, visitors to this exotic country will discover a trove of spiritual, cultural, and historical treasures.

To help you make the most of your time in this amazing country, refer often to our list of the top tourist attractions in India.

1. The Taj Mahal, Agra

2. the holy city of varanasi, 3. harmandir sahib: the golden temple of amritsar, 4. the golden city: jaisalmer, 5. the red fort, new delhi, 6. mumbai: the gateway of india, 7. mecca masjid, hyderabad, 8. amer fort, jaipur, 9. the beaches of goa, 10. periyar national park and wildlife sanctuary, madurai, 11. agra fort, 12. the ellora caves, aurangabad, 13. mehrangarh fort, jodhpur, 14. the ganges river, 15. mysore palace, 16. mahabodhi temple, bodhgaya, best time of year to visit india.

Perhaps India's most recognizable building, the Taj Mahal is also the world's most famous testimony to the power of love. Named after Mumtaz Mahal, the favorite wife of Emperor Shah Jahan, this most beautiful of mausoleums was begun upon her death in 1631 and took 20,000 workmen until 1648 to complete.

Incorporating many elements of Islamic design including arches, minarets, an onion-shaped dome, and black calligraphy inlaid around the entrance, the Taj Mahal is largely constructed of white marble. Adding to its splendor are delicate inlaid floral patterns and precious and semi-precious stones such as jade, lapis lazuli, diamonds, and mother of pearl.

The best time to visit is either at dawn or dusk when the atmosphere is brilliantly altered by the change in lighting. If possible, try to catch a view of the Taj Mahal's reflection from the far bank of the Yamuna River-it makes for a memorable (and safe) selfie.

Address: 64 Taj Road, Agra-282001

• Read More: Attractions & Places to Visit in Agra

Dating back to the 8th century BC, Varanasi is one of the oldest still inhabited cities in the world. A major pilgrimage center for Hindus, this holy city has long been associated with the mighty Ganges River, one of the faith's most important religious symbols.

Varanasi offers many reasons to visit , not least of them the chance to explore the Old Quarter adjacent to the Ganges where you'll find the Kashi Vishwanath Temple , built in 1780. The New Vishwanath Temple with its seven separate temples is also of interest.

Bathing in the Ganges is of great importance to Hindus, and numerous locations known as "ghats" feature stairways leading to the water where the faithful bathe before prayers. The largest are Dasashvamedh Ghat and Assi Ghat . The latter, at the confluence of the Ganges and Asi rivers, is considered particularly holy.

Also worth seeing is Banaras Hindu University , established in 1917 and noted for its massive library with more than a million books, and the superb Bharat Kala Bhavan museum featuring fine collections of miniature paintings, sculptures, palm-leaf manuscripts, and local history exhibits.

Founded in 1577 by Ram Das, Amritsar is an important hub of Sikh history and culture. The main attraction here is Harmandir Sahib, opened in 1604 and still often referred to as the Golden Temple for its beautiful gold decoration.

The holiest of India's many Sikh shrines (it also attracts many Hindus and people of other faiths), the temple was built in a blend of Hindu and Islamic styles. Its lower marble section features such flourishes as ornate inlaid floral and animal motifs, while the large golden dome represents a lotus flower, a symbol of purity to Sikhs.

In addition to its splendid design, visitors are equally impressed with the temple's spiritual atmosphere, an effect enhanced by the prayers continuously chanted from the Sikh holy book and broadcast throughout the complex.

Part of the overall experience – and visitors are welcome to participate – is the chance to enjoy one of the 50,000 free meals the attraction serves up to visitors each and every day.

Address: Golden Temple Road, Amritsar, Punjab 143006

• Read More: Attractions & Places to Visit in Amritsar

So named for the yellow sandstone used in most of its buildings, the Golden City of Jaisalmer is an oasis of splendid old architecture that rises from the sand dunes of the Thar Desert . Once a strategic outpost, today the city is filled with splendid old mansions; magnificent gateways; and the massive Jaisalmer Fort , also known as the Golden Fort, a daunting 12th-century structure that rises high above the town.

In addition to its palaces, temples, and fine old homes, the fortress boasts 99 bastions along with massive gates leading to its main courtyard where you'll find the seven-story-tall Maharaja's Palace . Started in the early 1500s and added to by successive rulers right up until the 19th century, the palace offers sections open to the public, including areas beautifully decorated with tiles from Italy and China, and intricately carved stone doors.

There are also a number of Jain temples dating from the 12th to 16th centuries, each decorated with fine marble and sandstone images, palm-leaf manuscripts, and brightly painted ceilings. Be sure to also check out the well-preserved 1,000-year-old library, Gyan Bhandar, with its many 16th-century manuscripts and antiquities.

Built by Shah Jahan in 1648 as the seat of Mughal power – a role it maintained until 1857 – the magnificent crescent-shaped Red Fort in New Delhi, named after the stunning red sandstone used in its construction, covers a vast area of more than two square kilometers, all of it surrounded by a large moat.

Highlights include its two largest gates: the impressive Lahore Gate (the fort's main entrance) and the elaborately decorated Delhi Gate , once used by the emperor for ceremonial processions.

A fun part of a visit is exploring Chatta Chowk , a 17th-century covered bazaar selling everything from jewelry to silk garments, as well as souvenirs and food items. While you can explore the fort yourself, guided tours are offered and provide a fascinating insight into the life and times of the Shah, including a peek into the stunning white marble Hall of Public Audiences (Diwan-i-Am) where he received his subjects.

Hot Tip: Try to stick around for the sound and light show held each evening featuring important events in the fort's history.

Address: Netaji Subhash Marg, Chandni Chowk, New Delhi, Delhi 110006

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Delhi and New Delhi

Standing an impressive 26 meters tall and overlooking the Arabian Sea, the iconic Gateway of India is a must-see when in Mumbai. Built to commemorate the arrival of King George V and his wife Queen Mary in 1911, this stunning piece of architecture was opened with much pomp and ceremony in 1924 and was, for a while, the tallest structure in the city.

Constructed entirely of yellow basalt and concrete and notable for its Indo-Saracenic design, the Gateway of India was also the scene of a rather less jubilant procession of British soldiers in 1948 when India gained its independence. These days, the huge archway provides a stunning backdrop that is as popular among locals as it is tourists.

Hot Tip: After visiting the Gateway of India, pop over to the adjacent Taj Mahal Palace and Tower for a delectable High Tea, a fun thing to do in Mumbai since this lovely luxury hotel opened in 1903.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Mumbai

Construction of Hyderabad's Mecca Masjid, one of the world's largest mosques – and one of the oldest in India – began in 1614 during Mohammed Quli Qutub Shah's reign and took almost 80 years to complete.

Large enough to accommodate 10,000 worshipers, this beautiful mosque's 15 enormous arches and pillars were each wrought from single slabs of black granite dragged to the site by huge cattle trains reputedly consisting of up to 1,400 bulls.

Taking its name from the bricks above the central gate that were brought here from Mecca, this impressive complex features highlights such as its main gateway, a huge plaza, and a large manmade pond. There's also a room that houses the hair of Prophet Mohammed.

Other notable features include inscriptions from the Quran above many of the arches and doors, the exquisite roof of the main hall, and the cornices around the entire mosque structure. Look out for the exquisite floral motifs and friezes over the arches.

Address: Hyderabad, Telangana 500002

Amer Fort (often also spelt "Amber") was built as a fortified palace in 1592 by Maharaja Man Singh I and has long served as the capital of Jaipur. Carved high up into the hillside, the fort is accessible on foot via a steep climb or by shuttle rides from the town below (better still, let an elephant do the work).

Highlights include Jaleb Chowk, the first courtyard, with its many decorated elephants, and the Shila Devi Temple, dedicated to the goddess of war. Also of note is the adjoining Hall of Public Audience (Diwan-i-Am) with its finely decorated walls and terraces frequented by monkeys.

Other highlights include Sukh Niwas (the Hall of Pleasure) with its many flowerbeds and a channel once used to carry cooling water, and the Temple of Victory (Jai Mandir), notable for its many decorative panels, colorful ceilings, and excellent views over the palace and the lake below.

Just above Amer Fort is Jaigarh Fort , built in 1726 by Jai Singh and featuring tall lookout towers, formidable walls, and the world's largest wheeled cannon. Be sure to also spend time wandering the walled Old City of Jaipur with its three fully restored gates and splendid bazaars, as well as the delightful City Palace , a massive complex of courtyards, gardens, and buildings.

• Read More: Attractions & Places to Visit in Jaipur

Long known within India as the "go-to" destination for those seeking a great beach holiday, Goa's beautiful western coastline, overlooking the Arabian Sea, has only recently been discovered by tourists from overseas. Goa's more than 60 miles of coastline is home to some of the world's loveliest beaches, each with their own particular appeal.

For those looking for peace and quiet, isolated Agonda Beach is a good choice, while Calangute Beach is by far the most commercial and crowded. For those in search of posh resorts, yoga getaways, and spa vacations, the beaches of Mandrem , Morjim , and Ashwem are fashionable among wealthy Indians and Westerners alike. Palolem is another one of Goa's popular beaches in a beautiful setting.

While in Goa, be sure to visit the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary . This superb attraction is home to thick forests and plenty of fauna, including deer, monkeys, elephants, leopards, tigers, and black panthers, as well as India's famous king cobras, and some 200 species of birds.

Also worth a visit is Divar Island , accessed by ferry from Old Goa. Highlights include Piedade , a typical Goan village and home to the Church of Our Lady of Compassion with its interesting stucco work, Baroque plaster decorations, and altars, as well as stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

One of South India's most popular tourist attractions, Periyar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary is centered around a lake built by British engineers in 1895 for irrigation and to provide water to the city of Madurai.

Established in 1934, this beautiful park is home to numerous species of mammals, including a large free-roaming Indian elephant population, wild boar, otters, the lion-tailed macaque, and more than 20 Bengal tigers. Bird-watching is a popular activity with frequent sightings of species such as darters, storks, kingfishers, hornbills, and racket-tailed drongos, along with many interesting varieties of butterflies.

The best ways to enjoy the park's splendid mountain scenery are to take a lake cruise or guided jungle walk, the latter allowing visitors a chance to come face to face with elephant herds and observe other wildlife from watchtowers and viewing platforms.

Hot Tip: Be sure to stop at one of the many nearby spice, tea, or coffee plantations for a tour.

Built as a military structure in 1565 by Emperor Akbar with later additions by Shah Jahan, the stunning Agra Fort (also known as Agra's Red Fort) is an interesting mix of both Hindu and Muslim influences.

Located a little more than two kilometers from the Taj Mahal , the fort is entered through Amar Singh Gate with its low outer wall and dogleg design built to confuse attackers. Once inside, you'll see two large interlinked sandstone buildings, Akbari Mahal and Jahangiri Mahal, the largest private residence in the complex.

Other highlights include the Khas Mahal (Private Palace), with its splendid copper roof, and the Anguri Bagh (Grape Garden), a jigsaw-patterned Mughal garden with numerous wonderful fountains and water channels as well as screens that once offered a private area for the emperor and his entourage. Also of note is the octagonal Musamman Burj tower, which later served as Shah Jahan's prison until his death.

Address: Rakabganj, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282003

The famous monumental Ellora Caves were built between the 5th and 10th centuries by Buddhist, Jain, and Hindu monks, and make for an excellent excursion from Mumbai, some 300 kilometers to the west.

Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this remarkable collection of 34 carved monasteries, chapels, and temples – 12 of them Buddhist, 17 Hindu, and five belonging to the Jain faith – were built in close proximity to each other, a reflection of the religious tolerance that existed during this period of Indian history.

Of the Buddhist monastery caves, highlights include a number of shrines featuring carvings of Buddha and saints dating from the 5th to 7th centuries, as well as the stunning Carpenter's Cave, considered one of the finest in India.

The Hindu caves are much more complex and were carved from the top down, so scaffolding was not necessary. Of these, the best is the Kailasa Temple, an enormous rock-cut temple representing Mount Kailasa and requiring the removal of 200,000 tons of rock.

Dominating the old city of Jodhpur, the massive Mehrangarh Fort, one of the largest fortifications in India, was built in the 15th century to safeguard the people of the famous "Blue City." Jodhpur is still known by this name, which is derived from its indigo-colored houses, painted blue to deflect the heat.

Built on top of a towering outcrop, Mehrangarh is an amazing feat of construction, its massive walls all but impenetrable. Access is via one of seven splendid gates, including Jaya Pol and Fateh Pol (the latter still bears scars from cannon attacks).

Highlights of a visit include exploring the fort's fascinating network of courtyards and palaces, as well as a museum housing a splendid collection of artifacts related to the Maharajas. Be sure to spend time in the historic center of Jodhpur itself, famous for its eight city gates, a lovely old clock tower, and numerous bazaars selling everything from vegetables to sweets, spices, and handicrafts.

Address: Fort Road, Jodhpur, Rajasthan 342006

Official site: www.mehrangarh.org

The Ganges River, or "Ganga" after the Hindu goddess, has long been one of India's most revered natural wonders. It's also one of the country's leading attractions , drawing crowds of Indian nationals to partake in its religious ceremonies, as well as tourists to enjoy the splendor of this mighty river.

While there are a number of cities dotted along the river, it's to the city of Varanasi that most tourists will travel to experience the Ganges and the cultural attractions that have sprung up along its banks. Although relatively small by Indian standards – its population is around 1.2 million people – the city is chock-full of temples and other important religious sites, many of them focused on worship of (or on) the Ganges.

Numerous "ghats" are set along the river banks, making it easy for worshippers and tourists alike to get up close. Made up of sometimes steep steps leading directly into the water, there are in fact 88 of these entry points to the Ganges. While most are many centuries old, they were extensively reconstructed and improved in the 1700s, and with their often vibrant, colorful ceremonies and celebrations are some of the most beautiful places to photograph in India .

If you've time, opt for one of the Ganges river tours available in the city from any one of the ghats. The most memorable are the early morning sunrise cruises. Top the experience by purchasing one of the small, floating offerings available from a vendor and set it off down the river (camera at the ready, of course).

The sprawling city of Mysore is a delight to explore thanks to its eclectic mix of fine old colonial architecture; regal Indian palaces; and lush, well-manicured gardens. While those inclined towards shopping will enjoy spending time in the city's famous silk and sandalwood bazaars, the main attraction is magnificent Mysore Palace.

Completely rebuilt in 1897 after a devastating fire, this beautiful three-storied palace features highlights such as its elegant square towers and domes; the many ornate ceilings and pillars in Durbar Hall; and the splendid Marriage Pavilion, with its glazed floor tiles, stunning stained glass, artworks, and displays of jewelry. It's also where, on special occasions, the exquisite Golden Throne is exhibited.

For a real treat, be sure to catch one of the splendid light displays held each Sunday and during holidays, when the palace is illuminated by more than 90,000 lights. A fun way to explore the palace's massive grounds and gardens is as part of a cycle tour, available free once inside.

Address: Sayyaji Rao Road, Mysuru, Karnataka 570001

Bodhgaya, considered the world's holiest Buddhist site, attracts thousands of visitors each year, all drawn to participate with the resident monks in meditation and prayer.

The focal point of this place of pilgrimage is stunning Mahabodhi Temple, built next to the very spot where Buddha came to Enlightenment and formulated his philosophy on life. Constructed in the 6th century and restored numerous times since, the temple is topped with a beautiful pyramidal spire and houses a large gilded statue of Buddha.

Also of interest is the site's pipal tree, a descendant of the original bodhi tree where Buddha meditated for seven days after the Enlightenment, said to be among the oldest and most venerated trees in the world (you'll know you've found it when you spot the red sandstone slab marking the spot).

Address: Bodhgaya, Bihar 824231

The best time to visit India is between November and March . That's when much of the country experiences cooler temperatures and significantly less rain. Most tourists visit in November and December.

In New Delhi, you can expect temperatures to range from as cool as seven degrees Celsius in the evenings to as high as 30 degrees Celsius during the peak of the day late in the season. The temperatures in the mountains of North India can get quite chilly during this time , so pack clothing that will keep you warm and allow you to traverse snow if you plan to go trekking in the Himalayas.

South India is a bit hotter during this time , but not unbearable for sightseeing. In Mumbai in December, tourists can expect daytime temperatures of 32 degrees Celsius and nighttime temperatures of 18 degrees Celsius on average. Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Goa are all excellent destinations to include in your itinerary if you're going to India between November and March.

The nice weather makes November through March the busiest time of year to visit India. If you're trying to stay away from the crowds, avoid going to India in the later months of the year. The country typically sees well over a million foreign tourists each month during November and December.

Tourism dips slightly from January through March, making these months a better time to visit popular tourist attractions in India (like the Taj Mahal ) and avoid peak rates on accommodations. Plus, the weather is not yet sweltering in North India.

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27 Top Tourist Attractions in India

India is the world’s seventh-largest country stretching from the high mountains of the Himalayas to the tropical greenery of Kerala, and from the sacred Ganges to the sands of the Thar desert. Its more than one billion inhabitants are divided into two thousand ethnic groups and speak over 200 different languages.

Conform its size and population, India has an almost endless variety of cultures, landscapes, monuments and places to explore. From the ancient ruins, fascinating religious structures, exotic cities and diverse landscape there is an endless collection of tourist attractions in India that will never cease to awe and fascinate the visitor.

27. Hawa Mahal

A stunning pick and red sandstone five-story structure stands in the heart of Jaipur. One of the city’s most popular tourist attractions, the Hawa Mahal has a unique purpose. Also known as the Palace of the Wind, it was a place where royal women could view street activities outside while hidden from view. To this end, the pyramid-shaped palace has 953 windows, each with an intricate design. Constructed in 1799, Hawa Mahal is considered an excellent example of Rajputana architecture.

26. Havelock Island

Ecotourism is encouraged at Havelock Island, the largest island in Ritchie’s Archipelago in the Andaman Islands. Though not as crowded as other islands in Asia, the number of visitors to Havelock Island is on the rise due to its great beaches, casual atmosphere, snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities. The best time to visit is mid-January to mid-May, when the weather is sunny with calmer seas. Redhanagar Beach is considered one of the best beaches in Asia.

25. Bandhavgarh National Park

Seeing wildlife in its habitat is a goal for many travelers. A visit to Bandhavgarh National Park will not disappoint them. One of India’s most popular national parks, Bandhavgarh provides an opportunity to see leopards, barking deer, sloth bears, hyenas, and Indian bison and wolves, but Bengal tigers are definitely the star attraction, even though only 10 percent of visitors may see one. The best time to see wildlife here is early morning or late afternoon.

24. Dharamsala

Dharamsala is the home away from home for the Dalai Lama who came here in 1959 after escaping from Tibet. The city also is the home to the Tibetan government in exile. Dharamsala means a spiritual dwelling or place for pilgrims to rest, which is appropriate since so many Tibetans live here. With advance planning, it may be possible to attend one of the Dalai Lamas public teaching sessions. Dharamsala is popular with hiking enthusiasts and travelers interested in yoga and Indian cooking lessons.

23. Pushkar Camel Fair

Visitors who want to take a camel home with them as a souvenir of their trip to India may want to attend the Pushkar Camel Fair. This two-week fall fair also is a good opportunity to buy other livestock, as more than 1,000 animals are bought, sold or traded, though camels are the main draw. Over the years, the fair has become more than just a place where farmers buy and sell livestock. It’s evolved into a full-scale festival that includes camel races, sports events, carnival rides and even moustache competitions.

22. Ranakpur Temple

Ranakpur Temple is an imposing and highly decorative Jain temple that is famous for its art and architecture, considered some of the world’s best. Built in the 15th century, it took more than 50 years to construct the temple. One of the largest temples in India, Ranakpur Temple has 29 halls and 80 domes, but is really famous for its 1,444 pillars, of which each one is unique. Statues of deities top each dome. Extremely intricate carvings highlight the interior.

21. Varkala Beach

Varkala Beach is popular with travelers who just want to take a break from sightseeing for a while. Its sandy beaches along impressive cliffs are perfect for beachcombing, sunbathing and swimming, just some of the reasons Discovery channel named it one of the top 10 seasonal beaches in the world. It’s also known for its mineral springs; swimming in them is believed to heal ailments and purify one’s sins. Travelers who want to sneak in some sightseeing may enjoy a visit to Janardhana Swami Temple, a 2,000-year-old temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu.

20. Darjeeling

Darjeeling is a town in northeast India that is famous for tea, trains and scenic beauty. Darjeeling tea is thin, light colored, aromatic and soothing to drink. The leaves are grown in the hills around the town. Farther up in the skyline, travelers can see the snow-covered peaks of the Himalayan foothills. Access is by a three-hour car ride from the nearest airport or a seven-hour journey on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railroad, a narrow gauge railway known as the “toy train.”

19. Qutb Minar

Qutb Minar is the second highest brick minaret in the world. The minaret, towering 80 meters (270 feet) into the sky, is made of marble and red sandstone bricks that are carved with sayings from the Koran. Construction took four years, starting in 1193. A circular staircase with 379 steps leads to the top; it is closed to visitors. Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosqueaa, the first mosque built in India, lies at the minaret’s foot. Nearby is the Iron Pillar, so named because it’s made from metals that don’t rust.

18. Thikse Monastery

Travelers who’ve been to Tibet may think they’re seeing things when they look at Thikse Monastery. That’s because the 12-story building resembles the Potala Palace in Lhasa, only this Buddhist monastery is located in Ladakh, India. Like its Tibetan inspiration, it’s located at a high elevation: 3,600 meters (11,800 feet). Ladakh’s largest monastery also contains the tallest statue, a 14-meter (45-foot) high depiction of Maitreya, housed in a temple commemorating the visit of the Dalai Lama in 1970. Important Buddhist art, such as stupas and wall paintings, can be found here.

17. Mysore Palace

Visitors to Mysore Palace are in for an awesome experience at sthe second most popular tourist attraction in India. The seven palaces that make up the Mysore Palace complex are nothing short of spectacular. The Wodeyars ruled Mysore from 1399 to 1950. Their original palace was built in 1399, and the current palace was completed in 1912. The new palace is an amalgamation of Muslim, Hindu, Gothic and Raiput styles. Three stories high, it has deep pink marble domes and an ivory tower. The palace hosts an annual arts and culture festival, Dashara annually.

16. Mehrangarh Fort

Mehrangarh Fort is a most imposing, a stern-looking fort, one of the largest in India, that sits atop a hill overlooking Jodhpur. Built in the mid-15th century as a defense mechanism, visitors can still see cannonball imprints on one of the seven entrance gates. Once inside the walls, visitors will find beautiful, highly decorated palaces. The fort’s museum has an excellent collection of palanquins, musical instruments, royal cradles and costumes. The ramparts, where an old cannon is located, provide splendid views of Jodhpur.

15. Jim Corbett National Park

Everyone loves to see animals in the wild. Jim Corbett National Park, India’s oldest national park, is a good place to see the endangered Bengal tiger. Established in 1936, the park was renamed in 1954 to honor Jim Corbett, author and wildlife conservationist, who helped create this nature reserve. Thick vegetation, including jungles and forest, make it difficult to see the tiger – April to June is best for that, but visitors may see other wildlife, including elephants, leopards, rhinoceros and Himalayan black bears.

14. Amber Fort

Amber Fort, the main tourist attraction around Jaipur, is known for its outstanding architecture. Sitting atop a hill, the complex is a blend of Hindu and Rajput styles. Built in the late 16th century, pink and red sandstone and marble structure has been featured in Bollywood films. It is most famous for the Mirror Palace, a fabulous room with a pure glass ceiling so the queen could view the stars before she fell asleep. Access is by foot, 4WD vehicle or elephant.

13. Meenakshi Amman Temple

Meenakshi Amman Temple is an impressive Hindu temple that dates back to the sixth century, though most of the present structure was built a thousand years later. Located on the Vaigai River , it is perhaps the most important temple in Madurai, itself a 2,500-year-old city. Intricate carvings about inside and out; the temple has a total of 14 towers, each dedicated to a god or person. Some 33,000 sculptures as well as rich paintings can be found in the temple complex.

12. Khajuraho

The Khajuraho group of temples combines art with eroticism, with the end result being some of the finest medieval temple art, not only in India, but the world. Built around the 10th century, only about 25 of the original 85 temples remain today. The largest group of Hindu and Jain temples in the world, the carvings and sculptures represent women’s traditional lifestyles in medieval times. The sculptures were created at a time, when erotic art was auspicious; some of the carvings are sexually explicit.

11. Ajanta Caves

The Ajanta Caves are rock-cut cave monuments dating from the 2th century BC. The magnificent Ajanta caves were abandoned around 650 AD and forgotten until 1819, when a British hunting party stumbled upon them. Their isolation contributed to the fine state of preservation in which some of their paintings remain to this day. The well preserved murals depict everything from battlefields to sailing ships, city streets and teeming animal-filled forests to snow-capped mountains. The city of Aurangabad is the gateway to the Ajanta Caves as well as the equally spectacular Ellora Caves.

10. Kerala backwaters

The Kerala backwaters are a chain of lagoons and lakes lying parallel to the Arabian Sea coast in the Kerala state. The Kerala backwaters are home to many unique species of aquatic life including crabs, frogs and mudskippers, water birds and animals such as otters and turtles. Today, houseboat tourism is the most popular tourist activity in the backwaters, with several large Kettuvallams (traditional rice boats, now converted into floating hotels)ply the waterways.

9. Lake Palace

The Lake Palace in Lake Pichola in the city of Udaipur was built as a royal summer palace in the 18th century. Today it is a luxury 5 Star hotel, operating under the “Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces”. The Lake Palace hotel operates a boat which transports guests to the hotel from a jetty at the City Palace on the east bank of Lake Pichola. The palace became famous in 1983 when it was featured in the James Bond film Octopussy, as the home of titular character.

8. Virupaksha Temple

The Virupaksha Temple in the city of Hampi started out as a small shrine and grew into a large complex under the Vijayanagara rulers. It is believed that this temple has been functioning uninterruptedly ever since the small shrine was built in the 7th century AD which makes it one of the oldest functioning Hindu temples in India.

Palolem is the most southerly of Goa’s developed beaches and also one of the most beautiful. It is a natural bay surrounded by lofty headlands on either sides, resulting in a calm, idyllic sea with a gently sloping bed. For those who believe a beach cannot be paradise without a decent selection of cheap restaurants and good hotels, a dose of nightlife and plenty of like-minded people Palolem is the place to be.

6. Kanha National Park

Kanha National Park is among the most beautiful wildlife reserves in Asia and one of best places to catch a glimpse of a tiger in India. The lush sal and bamboo forests, grassy meadows and ravines of Kanha provided inspiration to Rudyard Kipling for his famous novel “Jungle Book” and make this one of the top attractions in India.

5. Harmandir Sahib

The Harmandir Sahib, better known as the Golden Temple is the main tourist attraction in Amritsar, and the most important religious place to the Sikhs. Construction of the temple was begun by Guru Ramdas ji. in the 16th century. In the 19th century, Maharaja Ranjit Singh the upper floors of the temple were covered with gold. It’s a stunning temple, and always full of thousands of pilgrims from all over India, excited to be at a place that they usually only see on television.

4. Jaisalmer

Located in Rajasthan’s remote westernmost corner close to the border with Pakistan, Jaisalmer is the quintessential desert town. The yellow sandstone walls of the “Golden City” rise from the Thar desert like a scene from the Arabian Nights while the Jaisalmer Fort crowns the city. Uncontrolled commercialism has dampened the romantic vision of Jaisalmer, but even with all the touts and tour buses, it remains one of the most popular tourist attractions in India.

3. Ellora Caves

Cave art is taken to new heights at Ellora Caves , one of the largest monastery-temple cave complexes in the world cut from rock. Ellora has 100 caves, though only 34 are open to the public. The largest single monolithic rock excavation is found at the Kailasa Temple, which covers an area double the size of Parthenon in Athens Constructed between the seventh and ninth centuries, the caves are devoted to Hindu, Budhist and Jainism deities.

2. Varanasi

Situated on the banks of the River Ganges, Varanasi is sacred to Hindus, Buddhists and Jains and also one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. In many ways Varanasi epitomizes the very best and worst aspects of India, and it can be a little overwhelming. The scene of pilgrims doing their devotions in the River Ganges at sunrise set against the backdrop of the centuries old temples is probably one of the most impressive sights in the world.

1. Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal in Agra is an immense mausoleum of white marble, built between 1632 and 1653 by order of the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his favorite wife. Called “a teardrop on the cheek of eternity” it is one of the masterpieces of Mughal architecture, and one of the great tourist attractions in India. Besides the white domed marble mausoleum the Taj Mahal includes several other beautiful buildings, reflecting pools, and extensive ornamental gardens with flowering trees and bushes.

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Reader interactions.

June 3, 2019 at 11:46 pm

Wonderful post. This blog has an amazing information about the destination places of India beautiful visiting spot……and captures very impressive photos.

May 27, 2019 at 7:23 am

Apart from the above still there are so many places. For example in Karnataka, you have got the following places worth seeing; 1.Shravanabealgola,where you find 58 feet tall Gomateswara Statue carved in monolithic stone on top of a hill,near Hassan. I think one of the wonder of the world. 2.Again,Halebeedu and Belur places near Hassan,you have got beautiful temples with rich sculptures, more than 1000 years old. I think it is more beautiful than Khajarajo temples.

August 15, 2018 at 6:57 am

India is a beautiful country with a different culture. But most travellers Visit Varanasi and comment saying india is dirty and stuff like that. If you really want to experience india make sure to visit all the states . !!

February 28, 2018 at 10:23 pm

Surprise why the Kashmir is not in the list that is the most beautiful place in India

August 13, 2017 at 9:36 pm

These are all amazing places, but I would argue that the Akshardham Delhi Temple should be in this list. I visited both Akshardham and Taj Mahal during one visit, both have amazing architecture yet I was more touched by Akshardham in Delhi.

December 1, 2016 at 4:45 pm

The Taj Mahal is beautiful!

November 5, 2016 at 10:50 pm

Plz visit Ranthambore tiger safari in Rajasthan . This is one of India ‘s best tiger reserve park. YOU can see tiger in open environment .this is one of Indai’s best tiger conservation project.

February 3, 2016 at 11:43 am

I am a Kealite. Probably my views may be biased. Recently I had been to Kumarokam and the house boat journey was a good experience. However those who are from outside Kerala may find it more attractive than me. Unlike other tourist destinations in India, the whole area is peaceful and not crowded and that is the main attraction. It is least expensive as well. Can give a try especially if you are in a Honeymoon Trip. You will get fantastic cottages adjacent to the Vembanad Lake. I also like Oooty (Tamilnadu), Kodai, Thekkadi, Vazhachal waterfalls (Kerala). I never had been to other tourist destinations in India. There can be better places as well.

January 30, 2016 at 10:03 am

Kashmir valleys are heaven on earth. This must appear in this list

January 26, 2016 at 2:24 am

I think backwaters of kerala is a wonderful place, should visit there once

September 30, 2015 at 2:22 pm

While this list is great, here are other honourable mentions that I honestly recommend any traveller to pay a visit.

1. Khajuraho Temple – Inscriptions inspired from Kamasutra 2. Konark Sun Temple – Impressive views and coastline 3. Tanjore Brihadeeshwara Temple – Grand architecture built by Chola Kings 4. Darjeeling – Beautiful hill station, great tea and plantations, mountain railway and views 5. Gir National Park – Only home of the Lions outside of Africa

The places mentioned above are declared as UNESCO world heritage sites that deserve a travellers’ attention.

July 23, 2015 at 7:10 am

Palolem all the way…Have been going there every time i go to Goa and will continue. The tiny island to the north of the beach is simply amazing!!! Another attraction close to Palolem would be Cabo De Rama for arguably for the most panoramic view in Goa. Viva la Goa…Boom!!!

April 29, 2015 at 4:50 pm

i thought the Taj Mahal was #awsome! i think it was really exciting to be in there and witness all the wonders of it.

December 20, 2014 at 8:12 pm

Kerala backwaters is the most beautiful place in India.

October 25, 2014 at 2:13 pm

The above are beautiful places I agree that but among this list Odisha Jagannatha tempul,Udaya giri ,Lalit giri,Konark is missing. The most beautiful beach in India

October 4, 2014 at 10:57 am

These are all amazing places, but I would argue that the Akshardham Delhi Temple should be in this list. I visited both Akshardham and Taj Mahal during one visit, both are Amazing architectures yet I found more touched by Akshardham in Delhi.

September 20, 2014 at 8:13 am

I would like to visit lake palace its intrstng place & jesalmer too

September 9, 2014 at 12:56 am

I have visited Hampi and Taj in 2014

September 5, 2014 at 4:16 am

Seeing Taj Mahal,I notice the beauty of the world!!!

August 22, 2014 at 4:18 am

among all these i like goa beach very much. i would like to go there with my family and friends.

July 11, 2014 at 4:02 am

The above are beautiful places I agree that but among this list Kanyakumari is missing. The most beautiful beach in India.

April 24, 2014 at 12:28 am

Anyone would really miss a lot if one visits NE and left out the only lake palace in whole Eastern India situated at Tripura – a magnificent one indeed! You can also get to see UNAKOTI Hills where as many as 9999999 (1 less than 1 crore) idols are sculpted on the hills- plz pay a visit there

March 4, 2014 at 2:48 am

i really like to go to India and see all the beautiful things

January 30, 2014 at 10:15 pm

Taj mahal is the most beautiful place i ever seen.

December 24, 2013 at 10:51 am

Kerala Backwaters – Nice place to enjoy with family, get together with friends and especially for honeymoon. whole day in boat between waters thrilling with embrassment. Dont miss it. Really it means – “Gods Own Country”- Naturals gift

December 15, 2013 at 4:58 am

Jaisalmer 🙂 i love this places

December 7, 2013 at 1:34 am

The best place was kerala.

November 25, 2013 at 11:57 pm

“Construction of the temple was begun by Guru Ram Dast in the 16th century”. It’s not Guru Ram Dast, but it should be Guru Ram Das…….. He was the fourth of the ten Gurus of Sikhism.

May 1, 2013 at 8:12 pm

The best place was Amritsar

December 23, 2011 at 11:56 am

I completely agree with Kiran, kerala backwater is really amazing, i would also like to share that if you really want to feel the hinduism, you must go to Varanasi.

November 4, 2011 at 12:03 am

The most beautiful is , I a sure that Kerala backwaters. This is the most beautiful and inexpensive one

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TripSavvy / Faye Strassle

Ah, it's so hard to choose! What are the best tourist places in India? A lot of the time, it comes down to personal preference. However, some places to visit in India remain perennially more popular than others. These are among the best destinations in India.

Want to know more about India's top destinations? Take a look at this India travel planner and this guide to the top India tourist places by region. If you'd like to explore beyond India's popular tourist attractions, here are 12 of the best places to visit in India off the beaten track to inspire you!

Also read: Safety issues at top tourist places in India to be prepared for problems you may encounter.

Best for Monuments: Delhi

Most first time travelers to India usually land in Delhi, India's capital city. It can be quite a culture shock . The city is primed to take advantage of unsuspecting tourists. However, bear with it! Delhi's top attractions feature spellbinding mosques, forts, and monuments left over from the Mughal rulers that once occupied the city. Many of these are set in beautiful landscaped gardens that are perfect for relaxing. And the crumbling old city of Old Delhi is a fascinating, albeit chaotic, place to explore. Plan your trip there with this Delhi city guide.

Best Iconic: Taj Mahal

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A part of India's popular Golden Triangle tourist circuit , Agra is best known for the Taj Mahal. Enough said really. It's India's most iconic monument and one of the top historical attractions.   For that reason, it's impossible to leave it off the list. (While you're there, why not get off the beaten track and visit some attractions around Agra as well?). Make sure you read this comprehensive guide to Agra and the Taj Mahal before you go.

Best Temple: Golden Temple

Amritsar is home to one of India's most notable landmarks -- the Golden Temple. It was founded in 1577 by Guru Ram Das, the fourth Sikh guru. It’s the spiritual capital of the Sikhs and gained its name, meaning "Holy Pool of Nectar", from the body of water around the Golden Temple. The exquisite Golden Temple attracts pilgrims from all over the world and the number of visitors it gets rivals that of the Taj Mahal! It looks particularly arresting at night when it’s beautifully lit up, with its imposing gold dome illuminated. This guide to Amritsar and Golden Temple has more details.

Best Regal Splendor: Udaipur

Ah, Udaipur! Famed city of lakes and palaces, and the most romantic city in India. A must-visit for the ability to immerse yourself in regal splendor. The royal family has converted much of the sprawling City Palace into a museum , housing priceless memorabilia. It provides an extraordinary opportunity to take a look into their lives. Another attractive thing about Udaipur is that it offers great value! There are so many inexpensive yet atmospheric hotels overlooking the lake to stay in. Or, stay in the City Palace Complex itself, at the Shiv Niwas Palace Hotel or Fateh Prakash Palace Hotel.

Best Ruins: Hampi

Hampi is, not surprisingly, one of the most popular places to visit in Karnataka. There you'll find the captivating ruins of Vijayanagar, the last capital of one of the greatest Hindu kingdoms in not only the state but in India’s history. The ruins are intriguingly intermingled with large boulders that rear up all over the landscape. An incredible energy can be found at Hampi. Its laid-back vibe attracts plenty of travelers who like to stay a while and chill out. The New York Times included Hampi on its list of 52 Places to Go in 2019 , so get there fast before everyone else! Have a read of this handy Hampi travel guide for more information.

Best for History and Architecture: Ajanta and Ellora Caves

TripSavvy / Anna Haines

Among the top caves in India , the ancient and awe-inspiring Ajanta and Ellora caves have been hand-carved into hillside rock quite in the middle of nowhere near Aurangabad in northern Maharashtra. These caves are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are 34 of them at Ellora, dating from between the 6th and 11th centuries AD. They're a mixture of Buddhist, Hindu and Jain caves. The caves at Ajanta are all Buddhist caves. There are 29 of them, dating from the 2nd century BC to 6th century AD. Words can't describe how magnificent they all are.

Best for Spirituality: Varanasi

Varanasi, one of the top spiritual places in India, is a city quite unlike any other. This mystical holy city openly reveals its rituals along the many riverside ghats, which are used for everything from bathing to burning the bodies of the dead. Indeed, Varanasi is a confronting and rather dirty city (although it has been cleaned up a lot in recent years). However, it provides invaluable insight into ancient traditions in India. Two highlights are wandering along the riverside ghats and attending the evening Ganga Aarti ceremony. Here's a Varanasi travel guide to help you plan your trip.

Best for Culture: Kolkata

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Kolkata , the capital of West Bengal, is a fascinating but underrated city that unfortunately all too often gets overlooked by tourists. Those who are most keen on history, experiential travel, and day-to-day life will appreciate what it has to offer though. Look past its crumbling buildings and you'll discover delicious distinctive Bengali cuisine , interesting places to shop , diverse neighborhoods , and engaging heritage . The city's biggest festival, Durga Puja , is worth experiencing as well! Take a look at these evocative photos of Kolkata for inspiration.

Best for South Indian Culture: Madurai

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Madurai, in Tamil Nadu , has the most impressive temple in South India -- the Meenakshi Temple . If you only see one of South India's temples , the Meenakshi Temple should be it. The city of Madurai is more than 4,000 years old, and has remained a major center for Tamil culture and learning. The 12 day Chithirai Festival , featuring a re-enacted celestial wedding of God and Goddess, is held in Madurai during April each year. Here's what else to see and do in Madurai.

Best for Tribal Culture: Northeast India

Tourists are often surprised to discover that there are many different tribes in India . In fact, along with Africa, India has the largest tribal population in the world. Many of them inhabit India's remote Northeast region and they generally welcome visitors. One of the best ways to experience their culture is to attend one of their tribal festivals , such as the renowned Hornbill Festival. Otherwise, reputable local companies such as Greener Pastures and Holiday Scout conduct responsible tribal tours.

Best for Relaxation: Kerala Backwaters

One of the must-do things in Kerala , a trip in a houseboat along the palm-fringed Kerala backwaters is so tranquil and relaxing. The lush green landscape, and houses and villages that line the backwaters make a journey along these waterways seem like a journey through another world. Freshly cooked Indian food and chilled beer on board the boat make the experience even more enjoyable. Don't miss it! Here's how to best visit the Kerala Backwaters.

Best for Beaches: Goa

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India's top beach destination, Goa lures visitors with the promise of parties and lazy days by the sea. However, there's more to Goa than just hedonism. The state also offers an eclectic blend of history, nature, culture , and adventure activities . It's divided into north and south Goa, with the north being more developed and action-packed. If you're looking for quiet beaches, head south! However, each beach has its own character. This  Goa beach guide will help you choose the beach that's right for you. Check out these gorgeous Goa beach huts as well.

Best for Wildlife: Kanha National Park

India has so many national parks, it's hard to choose the best wildlife destination. However, the jungles of Madhya Pradesh do stand out, Kanha National Park in particular. It's one of the largest national parks in India and it provided the setting for Rudyard Kipling’s classic novel, The Jungle Book . The park is highly regarded for its research and conservation programs. Numerous activities, such as nature walks, are possible in the buffer zone as well as safaris into the core area twice a day. Tiger sightings are regular there too! Want to visit more than one national park in Madhya Pradesh ? Bandhavgarh is also popular.

Best for Adventure: Spiti

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The high-altitude alpine desert landscape of remote Spiti, in Himachal Pradesh, provides ample options for adventure enthusiasts. These include mountain biking, hiking and trekking, tracking wildlife, and yak safaris. Spiti's remarkable landscape is scattered with small villages and monasteries, and enclosed by soaring peaks crowned with snow. Take a look at these spectacular photos of the Spiti Valley . Spiti can be reached by road from Manali or Shimla. This ultimate Spiti travel planner will help you organize your trip.

Best Offbeat: Kutch Region of Gujarat

Referred to as India's "Wild West", the Kutch region of Gujarat is an immense stretch of largely barren and harsh desert landscape bordering Pakistan. Much of Kutch consists of seasonal wetlands known as the Great Rann of Kutch (famous for its salt desert) and smaller Little Rann of Kutch (famous for its Wild Ass Sanctuary ). The region is also celebrated for the vibrant handicrafts made by its talented artisan villagers, and the seaside port town of Mandvi where there's a remarkable 400 year-old ship building yard.

Best Up and Coming: Odisha

Odisha has tremendous potential as a tourist destination and will undoubtedly attract more visitors when adequate infrastructure is developed. Until then, you can enjoy the serenity in this lesser-known state on the east coast of India. Attractions include the unusual Konark Sun Temple , massive annual Ratha Jatra festival in Puri , the Diamond Triangle of sacred Buddhist sites , the wetlands at Mangalajodi where migratory birds can be seen close-up, handicraft villages , classical music and dance festivals , and a multitude of ancient temples . Still not sure if you want to go there? Here are even more places to visit in Odisha and the capital city Bhubaneswar .

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Best Tourist Attractions in India

Tourist attractions in india, here is the list of 56 best tourist attractions in india, 1. taj mahal, agra.

The Taj Mahal is one of the seven wonders of the world and is considered to be the most popular tourist attraction in India. A symbol of love, the Taj was built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan for his queen Mumtaz. Tagore described the Taj as a "teardrop on the cheek of eternity". The monument attracts a lot of tourists all around the year.

2. Golden Temple, Amritsar

Tangibly the most spiritual place in India, Golden Temple, also known as Sri Harmindar Sahib, is the holiest shrine in Sikhism which is alive with religious fervour and sacredness. Although the Golden Temple itself is of great historical and architectural interest, it is the view of the resplendent shrine, glistening in the centre of the tank, bringing an infinite calmness that is most memorable to a visitor.

3. Red Fort, Delhi

The Red Fort is a historical tourist attraction in India in the national capital of New Delhi. Located in the center of the city, it was the main residence of the emperors of the Mughal dynasty. It was constructed by Shah Jahan in the year 1939 as a result of a capital shift from Agra to Delhi.

4. Mysore Palace, Mysore

An incredibly breathtaking example of Indo - Saracenic style of architecture, the Mysore Palace is a magnificent edifice located in Mysore in the state of Karnataka. Also known as the Amba Vilas Palace, it is the former palace of the royal family of Mysore and is still their official residence.

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Cradled on the top of the Aravali Hill and forming a beautiful reflection across the Maotha Lake, lies the Amber Fort. An architectural masterpiece and with significant reference in the Indian history, it is visited by over five thousand tourists daily. Only eleven kilometres away from the capital city of Jaipur, Amber Fort is clad in pink and yellow sandstone and is a part of an extensive complex.

6. Chola Temples - UNESCO World Heritage Site

History is alluring. It teaches us about the culture, people, traditions of an era gone by. In the history of the southern parts of the country, the Chola Empire ruled for centuries. The three temples built by the Chola kingdom are a part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and are labelled as, "Great Living Chola Temples".

7. Meenakshi Amman Temple, Madurai

The historic Meenakshi Amman temple is located on the southern bank of the Vaigai River, Madurai, Tamil Nadu. Built sometime between the year 1623 and 1655, the wonderful architecture of the place is renowned globally. Meenakshi Temple is primarily dedicated to Parvati, known as Meenakshi, and her spouse, Shiva.

8. Ajanta and Ellora Caves, Maharashtra - World Heritage Ancient Rock-Cut Caves

Known For : Ajanta Caves Grishneshwar Temple, Ellora The Buddhist Caves, Ellora

Ajanta and Ellora caves, considered to be one of the finest examples of ancient rock-cut caves, are located near Aurangabad in Maharashtra, India. Ajanta and Ellora caves complex is adorned with beautiful sculptures, paintings, and frescoes and include Buddhist monasteries, Hindu and Jain temples. 

Best Time: June to March

12 Ajanta Caves Attractions

9. Mahabodhi Temple, Bodh Gaya

The Mahabodhi temple also called the "Great Awakening Temple", is among one of the World Heritage Sites. It is a Buddhist temple in Bodh Gaya, which marks the location where the Buddha, is said to have attained enlightenment. It is hence, one of the only four sites related to the life of Lord Buddha.

10. Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand - Home to the Royal Bengal Tiger

Known For : Jungle Safari in Corbett National Park Corbett Waterfall River Rafting in Corbett National Park

Jim Corbett National Park, during this month, sees a surge in wildlife activity, increasing the chances of spotting the majestic Bengal tiger. The deciduous forests turn a golden hue, creating a picturesque backdrop for safaris. Bird-watchers are in for a treat as migratory birds visit the region. January in Jim Corbett is synonymous with thrilling wildlife encounters.

Best Time: Mid October to Mid June

19 Jim Corbett Attractions

11. Victoria Memorial, Kolkata

Another symbol of the British Raj in India, the Victoria Memorial is located in the heart of Kolkata , which was formerly known as Calcutta, in West Bengal , India. This white marbled beauty, which can rightly be called the epitome of grace and elegance, was built in memory of Queen Victoria to celebrate her 25 years of rule over India.

12. Hampi, Karnataka - The abode of bygone ruins, rusty colors and fascinating landscape

Known For : Virupaksha Temple, Hampi Vithala Temple Lotus Palace

Hampi, the city of ruins, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Situated in the shadowed depth of hills and valleys in the state of Karnataka, this tourist attraction in India is a historical delight for travellers. Hampi is an open museum with 100+ locations to explore and a favourite way to see the city from the perspective of its history.

Best Time: October to March

31 Hampi Attractions

13. Pangong Lake, Ladakh - One of the most serene tourist attractions in India

The famous and sparkling blue Pangong lake is situated near Leh-Ladakh in the Himalayas, approximately at the height of 4350 meters. This endorheic lake is 12 kilometres long and extends from India to Tibet, with two-thirds of it lying in the latter. Owing to its altitude, the temperature here ranges from -5°C to 10°C as a result of which the lake freezes completely during winters.

14. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh - The Spiritual Capital of India

Known For : Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple Dashashwamedh Ghat Ganga Aarti, Varanasi

Varanasi, the city that is more than just the spiritual capital of India. The city which can be aptly described as a melting pot where both life and death come together. The city that you only need to visit once for it to stay with you forever. Popular among both domestic and international tourists for its magnanimous ghats and Ganga Aarti, the city is among the top tourist attractions in India.

42 Varanasi Attractions

15. Jaisalmer, Rajasthan - The Golden City

Known For : Jaisalmer Fort Desert Safari in Jaisalmer Gadisar Lake

Situated close to the Pakistan Border, Jaisalmer is a major tourist attraction in India located in the northwestern state of Rajasthan. It is called the 'golden city' due to its bounteous golden dunes flowing in the Thar Desert. Jaisalmer is adorned with lakes, ornate Jain temples, havelis and castles clad in golden yellowish sandstone.

39 Jaisalmer Attractions

16. Gateway of India, Mumbai

The Gateway of India is, without doubt, one of the most popular tourist attractions in India. It is located at Apollo Bunder Waterfront and overlooks the Arabian Sea in the most beautiful way. One of the most distinguished monuments in Mumbai, it was built in the year 1924 by famous architect George Wittet as a commemoration of the visit of King George V and Queen Mary to Mumbai.

17. Mecca Masjid, Hyderabad

One of the oldest mosques in the city, the Mecca Masjid in Hyderabad is one of the largest masjids in India. This revered shrine was commissioned by Muhammad Quli Qutub Shah, the fifth ruler of the Qutub Shahi Dynasty in the year 1614, while the construction saw completion in the year 1694.

18. Hawa Mahal, Jaipur

The massive edifice of Hawa Mahal stands at the intersection of the main road in Jaipur , Badi Chaupad. It is regarded as the signature building of the city and was built by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh in the year 1799. The main reason behind the palace's construction was to allow the women of the royal house to observe the festivities on the streets whilst being unseen from the outside.

19. Best Beaches In Goa

Goa, a tiny state on the western coast of India along the Arabian Sea, is famous for its laidback beaches, night long parties, beach shacks, water sports and many other adventure activities. One of the most visited tourist attractions in India, Goa has many beaches along its beautiful coastline, catering to millions of visitors every year.

20. Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh - The Tiger's Den

Formerly a hunting ground for the Maharajas of Rewa, the Bandhavgarh National Park is world-renowned as a tiger reserve and it is known to have the highest density of Bengal tigers in the world. The frequent sightings of royal tigers make this national park a must-visit for all wildlife enthusiasts. In 2012, around 44-49 tigers were living in the park.

Best Time: October to June

21. Agra Fort, Agra - An Epitome of the Mughal Dynasty

An architectural masterpiece, The Red Fort of Agra or Agra Fort was built by Emperor Akbar in 1573. It is located on the right bank of the River Yamuna and is made entirely of red sandstone. The historical fort was once the ersthwhile residence of the Mughals until 1638. One of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, it lies 2.5 kilometres from Taj Mahal .

22. Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur

The Mehrangarh Fort, built by Rao Jodha in 1459 in Jodhpur, is one of the largest forts in the country. It is situated at the top of a 410 feet elevated hill and guarded by massive walls. Located in the centre of the city, the fort covers an area of approximately 5 Kms of a hill. Its walls have a height of 36 metres and width of 21 metres.

23. Jama Masjid, Delhi

Amidst the rush and chaos of Central Delhi, lies the peace and tranquillity of the largest mosque in the country. The 'Masjid-I Jahan-Numa' or Jama Masjid as it is more commonly known, means "World Reflecting Mosque." It was the last of Shah Jahan's impressive collection of architectural undertakings, after the Taj Mahal and the Red Fort.

24. Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh - The Architectural Masterpiece

Known For : Light and Sound Show, Khajuraho Dulhadev Temple Kandariya Mahadev Temple

Khajuraho is known around the world for its stunning temples adorned by erotic and sensuous carvings. Khajuraho is a brilliant example of Indian architecture and its culture back in the medieval period. The architecture of these Hindu and Jain temples depict the innocent form of love, the carvings on the walls display passion in the most erotic yet aesthetic ways.

Best Time: July to March

25 Khajuraho Attractions

25. Jallianwala Bagh, Amritsar

Located near the famous Golden Temple of Amritsar, the Jallianwala Bagh is a public garden which houses a memorial to commemorate the massacre of peaceful celebrators by the British forces. The tragic incident had left a deep scar on the country, and a memorial was constructed post the independence for the innocents who lost their lives in this devastating incident.

26. Great Rann of Kutch, Kutch

The Great Rann of Kutch, a large area of salt marshland, is located in the District of Kutch, in the western state of India, Gujarat. The vast expanse is situated in the Thar Desert and is formed of salt marshes which create a mesmerising view that attracts travellers from all over the world. Sunsets at the Great Rann of Kutch are a treat to the eyes after exploring the region.

27. Cellular Jail, Andaman Nicobar-islands

The Cellular Jail, also known as 'Kala Pani' is an old colonial prison situated in Port Blair, the capital of Andaman and Nicobar islands. Constructed by the Britishers during their colonial rule in India, Cellular Jail was used particularly to exile political prisoners where they were subjected to many atrocities at the hands of the British.

28. Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu

Known For : Shore Temple Mahabalipuram Beach Five Rathas

Famous for its intricately carved temples and rock-cut caves, Mamallapuram or Mahabalipuram as it is famously known, is a historically important and well-loved tourist location situated on the Coromandel Coast along the Bay of Bengal, in the state of Tamil Nadu. Once the abode of the famous demon king Mahabali, Mahabalipuram was later renamed Mamallapuram. 

Best Time: November to February

23 Mahabalipuram Attractions

29. Nalanda, Bihar - The Ancient Seat of Knowledge

Known For : Nalanda University Hiuen Tsang Memorial Hall The Great Stupa

The most popular Mahavihara of the ancient times, a significant Buddhist seat of academic excellence and a modest pilgrim center, all wrapped in a wisp of spirituality, Nalanda continues to be an equally enriching location in the present. It offers vibrant substance of spirituality, history, culture, architecture, and tourism.

8 Nalanda Attractions

30. Elephanta caves, Mumbai

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Elephanta Caves is a specimen of rock-cut art and architecture from the times of medieval India. The caves are located on the Elephanta island which is situated at a distance of 11 km from the city of Mumbai . Natively known as Gharapurichi Leni, the Elephanta Caves that exist today are ruins of what were once elaborately painted artworks.

31. Bara Imambara, Lucknow

The Bara Imambara of Lucknow is one of the most famous monuments of the city. Also known as Asfi Imambara, after the name of the Nawab of Lucknow who got it constructed, it is an important place of worship for the Muslims who come here every year to celebrate the religious festival of Muharram.

32. Fort Aguada, Goa - A Fortress of Tranquility

Fort Aguada is a 17th-century Portuguese fort looking out at the confluence of Mandovi River and the Arabian Sea. The crumbling ramparts of the fort stand on the Sinquerim Beach, approximately 18 km from Panjim. The highlight of the fort is a lone four-storey lighthouse (which is one-of-its-kind in Asia )and a stunning view of the sunset.

33. Fatehpur Sikri, Agra

A city, predominantly made of red sandstone, Fatehpur Sikri was founded in 16th century by Mughal Emperor Akbar. Back then it was the capital of his Empire for fifteen years. Now a UNESCO world heritage site and a famous tourist attraction, it is a fine example of Akbar's architectural finesse. Fatehpur Sikri is a home to Jodha Bai's palace , Jama Mosque, Buland Darwaza , and a Tomb of Salim Chisti.

34. Jantar Mantar, Delhi, Delhi

Located in the Parliament Street, south Connaught Circle of New Delhi, Jantar Mantar is a vast observatory built to help and improve upon the studies of time and space as was known. It was built by Maharaja Jai Singh in the year 1724 and forms a part of a collection of five such observatories located in Jaipur , Ujjain , Varanasi and Mathura .

35. Hanging Gardens, Mumbai

Hanging Garden is a terrace garden situated on top of the Malabar Hill, right next to the Kamla Nehru Park. It overlooks the stunning Arabian Sea and was built in 1880 by Mr. Ulhas Ghapokar. The stunning gardens are dedicated to Barrister Pherozeshah Mehta and are also known as Pherozeshah Mehta Gardens. 

36. Lotus Temple, Delhi

Located in the national capital of New Delhi, the Lotus Temple is an edifice dedicated to the Baha'i faith. The magnificent structure of this building unfolds in the form of a stupendous white petal lotus and is one of the most visited establishments in the world. The design of this shrine was conceptualized by Canadian architect Fariborz Sahba and was completed in the year 1986. 

37. Ashoka Pillar, Sarnath

The national emblem of India and a mark of Emperor Ashoka's visit to Sarnath, the Ashoka Pillar crafted out of stone is an impressive structure with four lions at the top. This 50 m long pillar along with the Dhamek Stupa, are Ashoka's gift to Buddhism and the entire complex has a calm aura to it. A number of monks are spotted meditating around the compound. 

38. Sanchi Stupa, Sanchi

Located in Madhya Pradesh, the Buddhist monuments of Sanchi are one of the oldest stone structures in India. Designated a World Heritage site by UNESCO, the Great Stupa was installed in the 3rd century BC by Emperor Ashoka of the Mauryan dynasty. The sculptures and monuments present at the site are a fine example of the development of Buddhist art and architecture in Madhya Pradesh. 

39. Cave Temples, Badami

The Cave Temples of Badami consist of four separate temples, each holding intricate carvings and depictions. These carvings depict Shiva and Vishnu in various avatars in the first 3 temples, representing the Brahmanical style. The fourth temple is dedicated to Jain Tirthankaras.

40. Statue of Unity, Gujarat

Statue of Unity is a memorial to The Iron Man of India, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. The statue has been erected to propagate Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's vision of India and to inspire the Citizens of India through his patriotism and freedom struggle. The statue of Unity is Located in Gujrat, by the banks of River Narmada on the River Island of Sadhu Bet overlooking the Narmada Dam (Sardar Sarovar Dam) from 3.2 km away.

41. Junagarh Fort, Bikaner

The Junagarh Fort of Bikaner is a magnificent structure around which the city of Bikaner grew up. The fort was initially called Chintamani and was then renamed as the Junagarh or Old fort in the 20th century. The foundations of the Junagarh fort was built in 1478 by Rao Bika. However, it existed just as a stone fort then. 

42. Kumbhalgarh Fort, Kumbhalgarh

Kumbhalgarh Fort is one of the five hill forts of Rajasthan that were declared the UNESCO world heritage site in 2013. It is situated in Rajsamand district of Rajasthan and lies 82 kilometres northwest of the city of Udaipur. Constructed on the foothills of Aravalli ranges, it is surrounded by thirteen hill peaks of the ranges and is perched at an elevation of 1,914 m. 

43. Qutub Minar, Delhi

The soaring and brave tower that allures tourists despite being destroyed by ravages of natural apocalypses several times, Qutub Minar is the tallest individual tower in the world and second tallest monument of Delhi. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is located in Mehrauli and its construction was started in 1192 by Qutb Ud-Din-Aibak, founder of Delhi Sultanate. 

44. Humayun's Tomb, Delhi

As the name suggests, Humayun's tomb is the final resting place of the Mughal Emperor Humayun. Located in the Nizamuddin East area of Delhi, it is the first garden-tomb in the Indian subcontinent.  The design of Humayun's tomb is a typical Mughal architecture with Persian influences and was conceptualised by Persian architect Mirak Mirza Ghiyath. 

45. India Gate, Delhi

The All India War Memorial, popularly known as the India Gate, is located along the  Rajpath in  New Delhi . The imposing structure of India Gate is an awe-inspiring sight and is often compared to the Arch de Triomphe in France, the Gateway of India in Mumbai and the Arch of Constantine in Rome.

46. Kamakhya Temple, Guwahati

Located on the Nilanchal Hill in the western part of Guwahati in Assam,  Kamakhya Temple is one of the most revered shrines of Goddess Shakti in India. According to the Hindu scriptures, there are four important Shakti Peethas (Temples with highest powers of divinity) in the country and Kamakhya Temple is one of them. 

47. Akshardham Temple Delhi, Delhi

An epitome of Indian culture, spirituality, and architecture, Akshardham Temple is a famous Hindu temple and a spiritual-cultural complex. Also known as Swaminarayan Akshardham, it is dedicated to Lord Swaminarayan. Akshardham has made its way to the Guinness Book of World Records as the World's Largest Comprehensive Hindu Temple.

48. Hidimba Temple, Manali

Located amidst the snow-covered hills of Manali, the Hadimba Temple is a unique shrine dedicated to Hidimba Devi, who was the wife of Bhima and mother of Ghatothkach. Surrounded by gorgeous cedar forests, this beautiful shrine is built on a rock which is believed to be in the image of goddess Hidimba herself.

49. Best Beaches in Kerala

The beaches of Kerala need no introduction, interlinking with the beautiful backwaters to form an elaborate network of heavenly water bodies. The Allapuzha beach is most well-known, connected to the beautiful backwaters of Alleppey earning the city the title of Venice of the East. Check out Varkala beach to recapture the hippie vibe of Goa. 

50. Auroville, Pondicherry - The City of Dawn

Known For : Matrimandir Marc's Cafe Arka

Located around 15 km from the city of Pondicherry, Auroville is located in Tamil Nadu and was founded in 1968 by Mirra Alfassa, a disciple of Aurobindo and fondly known as the 'Mother' of Sri Aurobindo Society. This place is the epitome of tranquillity and proves as the perfect escape for the ones in search of peace. 

Best Time: November to March

21 Auroville Attractions

51. Shaniwar Wada, Pune

Shaniwarwada, once the seat of the Peshwa governance in Pune is a 286-year-old mansion and is one of the finest examples of architecture in the city. It is now one of the most popular tourist destinations in Maharashtra . This grand mansion was built by the Peshwa Bajirao I himself as the residence of the Peshwas. 

52. Charminar, Hyderabad

An identifying feature of the city, Charminar is the most prominent landmark located right in the heart of Hyderabad . The monument was erected by Quli Qutub Shah to signify the founding of Hyderabad. As is evident from the structure, it was so named as it consists of four minarets. 

53. Vaishno Devi, Jammu & Kashmir - The Holy Caves

Known For : Vaishno Devi Mandir Ardhkuwari

Vaishno Devi is a temple town that's home to the famous Vaishno Devi Mandir. Located in Trikuta hills, 13 kms from Katra (in the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir); this renowned shrine allures millions of devotees from all over the world.  Popularly known as Mata Rani, Vaishnavi and Trikuta, Vaishno Devi is a manifestation of the Hindu Goddess Durga.

Best Time: Throughout the year

8 Vaishno Devi Attractions

54. Dal Lake, Srinagar

The Jewel of Srinagar, the Dal Lake is synonymous to a visit to Srinagar and is almost a visual definition of the town. Spread over 15 kms, it is the second-largest lake in Jammu & Kashmir. The mirror-like Dal Lake reflects the snow-dusted peaks of the Pir Panjal mountains while the colourful shikaras (gondolas) float around. The houseboats and shikaras are its main attractions.

55. Bhangarh Fort, Alwar

Famous for the historical ruins and the ghost stories, Bhangarh has been regarded as the most haunted place in the country. It is located on the way between Jaipur and Delhi. The Bhangarh Fort is a 17th Century fort in the Alwar district of Rajasthan. It was built by Bhagwant Das for his son Madho Singh I. It was named by Madho Singh after his grandfather Man Singh or Bhan Singh.

56. Mudumalai National Park, Tamil Nadu - An exotic side of India's Fauna

Known For : Madumalai National Park The Jungle Safari Theppakadu Elephant Camp

Mudumalai National Park is a part of the Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary, located at a distance of 150 kilometres from Coimbatore, in the Nilgiri District of Tamilnadu. It connects the Western Ghats to the Eastern Ghats and owes its popularity to the fact that it’s home to many vulnerable and endangered animal and bird species.

Best Time: December to June

3 Mudumalai Attractions

We hope you have enjoyed the list of the most popular tourist attractions in India given above. Let us know which of these attractions are on your favourites list in the comments below!

This post was published by Aqsa Aleem

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Widely recognized as a symbol of eternal love, the Taj Mahal stands on the southern banks of the Yamuna River in Agra. Built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, its impeccable white marble architecture is the epitome of Mughal artistry. As sunlight kisses its domes and minarets, the monument shimmers, offering visitors a sight to cherish. Not just a monument, it’s a testimony to love’s timeless appeal.

2. Jaipur’s Amer Fort , India

Jaipur, popularly known as the ‘Pink City’, houses the majestic Amer Fort . Perched on a hill, this fort combines Rajput and Mughal architectural elements. As you tread its sprawling courtyards, you’ll be taken back to an era of royal splendor. Don’t miss the Sheesh Mahal, a palace adorned with thousands of mirror tiles, making it a shimmering spectacle.

3. Backwaters of Kerala

Known as “God’s Own Country”, Kerala offers an intricate network of lagoons, lakes, and rivers known as backwaters. Cruising on traditional houseboats, locally known as “Kettuvallams”, you’ll be surrounded by lush greenery, paddy fields, and tranquil waters. The experience is complemented by local cuisine, served on board, and the gentle rhythm of life around these waterways.

4. Goa’s Pristine Beaches

Goa, the smallest state in India, is synonymous with sun, sand, and the sea. Its coastline boasts some of the finest beaches in Asia. While beaches like Baga and Calangute pulsate with energy, others like Palolem offer serenity. The state’s Portuguese colonial history, vibrant nightlife, and delectable seafood further elevate the Goan experience.

5. Varanasi Ghats and the Ganges

Varanasi, perhaps the oldest city in the world , thrives on the banks of the sacred Ganges. The Ghats, or steps leading to the river, are where life and death coalesce. As dawn breaks, devotees take a holy dip, while evenings witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti. The spiritual aura, rhythmic chants, and the tapestry of rituals make it a profound experience.

6. Temples of Khajuraho

The UNESCO World Heritage site, Khajuraho , is a marvel of Indian art and architecture. The temple complex, built between the 9th and 11th centuries, exhibits intricate sculptures, depicting life, love, and divinity. While some carvings might raise eyebrows for their explicitness, they celebrate human passion in its purest form.

7. Rajasthan’s Desert – Jaisalmer and The Camel Fair

The golden sands of Rajasthan tell tales of valor, romance, and mysteries. Jaisalmer, the ‘Golden City’, rises from the heart of the Thar Desert. Its fort, a living monument, houses shops, hotels , and ancient havelis. Come November, the nearby town of Pushkar bustles with the vibrant Camel Fair, a spectacle of culture, color, and commerce.

8. Majuli Island, Assam

Majuli, the world’s largest river island on the Brahmaputra, is a haven of serenity and simplicity. This UNESCO World Heritage site is known for its unique Vaishnavite culture and traditional mask-making art. The island offers a vivid palette of festivals, rituals, and art forms that echo the rhythms of nature.

9. Palaces of Udaipur

Udaipur, the ‘City of Lakes’, is often dubbed as India’s most romantic city. Dominating its skyline is the Grand City Palace , overlooking Lake Pichola. The palace complex, with its courtyards, terraces, and corridors, offers a journey through Rajasthan’s royal legacy. A boat ride during sunset adds a magical hue to the experience.

10. Himalayan Range: Leh-Ladakh

Leh-Ladakh, nestled amidst the Himalayas, is a paradise for adventure enthusiasts. The barren landscapes, azure lakes, and mystic monasteries offer solace to those seeking offbeat experiences. Whether you bike on the world’s highest motorable road or attend the Hemis festival, Ladakh promises memories for a lifetime.

11. Sundarbans Mangrove Forest, West Bengal

The deltaic Sundarbans is the world’s largest mangrove forest, home to the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger. This UNESCO site is an intricate network of tidal waterways, swamps, and islands. Beyond tigers, the region hosts a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it a haven for nature lovers.

12. Golden Temple, Amritsar

The Golden Temple in Amritsar is the holiest shrine for Sikhs worldwide. Its gilded structure reflects beautifully on the Amrit Sarovar, from which the city derives its name. The serenity of hymns, the community kitchen serving thousands daily, and the temple’s history make it a pilgrimage of peace and spirituality.

13. Ajanta and Ellora Caves, Maharashtra

These rock-cut caves are masterpieces of Buddhist religious art. With murals and sculptures narrating tales of yore, they offer insights into ancient Indian aesthetics. While Ajanta is known for its paintings, Ellora is renowned for its intricate sculptures, including the monolithic Kailasha Temple .

14. Ooty’s Nilgiri Mountain Railway

The heritage mountain railway in Ooty takes you on a nostalgic journey through the Nilgiri hills. As the steam engine chugs through tunnels, over bridges, and around bends, travelers are treated to panoramic vistas of tea gardens, dense forests, and misty peaks.

15. Mysore Palace, Karnataka

Mysore Palace , an architectural marvel, stands as a symbol of the city’s royal past. Its Indo-Saracenic style, illuminated façade during Dasara festival, and treasure trove of artifacts narrate tales of a bygone era, making it a must-visit.

India, with its diverse tapestry of attractions, offers an unmatched travel experience. From architectural wonders to natural beauty, from vibrant festivals to spiritual journeys, it’s a land that embraces all. We invite you to explore these wonders and create memories that will linger for a lifetime.

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Tourist Attractions

Top 50 tourist attractions in india.

Explore the list of best tourist destinations in India include Taj Mahal, Red Fort, India Gate & many more on MakeMyTrip.

1 Taj Mahal, Agra

An Immortal Symbol of Love

Majestically located on the banks of Yamuna River, this wonder of the world was built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as a memorial for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal.

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2 Red Fort, Delhi

Symbol of Mughal Dynasty

Located in Chandni Chowk Old Delhi, this red sandstone structure was constructed under the reign of Mughal emperor Shah Jahan for protection against invaders. It is known for its intricate Mughal architecture and floral designs.

3 Golden Temple, Amritsar

Holiest Sikh Shrine

Also known as Sri Harmandir Sahib, Golden Temple is considered to be the most important pilgrimage site amongst Sikhs and will leave you in awe with its jaw-dropping gold and marble edifice.

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4 Amer Fort, Jaipur

A Majestic Hilltop Fort

Perched atop a hill and overlooking the Maota Lake, the red sandstone fort is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and showcases a beautiful fusion of Mughal and Rajput architecture.

5 Hawa Mahal, Jaipur

A Five-Storeyed Historic Landmark

Also called as 'The Palace of Winds', the honeycomb-shaped palace features 953 jharokha-style windows and was built by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh to allow the court ladies to enjoy the city processions.

6 Humayun's Tomb, Delhi

Domed Monument Surrounded by Symmetrical Gardens

The royal mausoleum of Mughal Emperor Humayun, this structure was sanctioned by his widow Hamida Baga Begum and designed by Persian architect Mirak Mirza Ghiyas. It was completed between 1565 and 1572.

7 Qutab Minar, Delhi

Soaring above Delhi's Skyline

Towering 73 metres high above the greens in Mehrauli, construction for this five-storey minaret was started by Qutb ud Din Aibak, founder of Delhi Sultanate. It is renowned for the artistic brick-work on its pillars and arches.

8 Mysore Palace, Mysore

Historical Royal Palace

The official residence of the erstwhile royal family of Mysore, Mysore Palace is an architectural masterpiece showcasing a blend of Hindu, Muslim, Rajput and Gothic styles.

9 India Gate, Delhi

War Memorial and Vast Public Park

Located on Rajpath in the heart of Delhi, this arch monument is a 42 meter high war memorial. It is also surrounded by vast well-manicured lawns and many government buildings.

10 Aguada Fort, Goa

Beautiful Portuguese architecture

The fort overlooks the confluence of Mandovi River and the Arabian Sea. This beautiful red-brown fort houses the Central Jail and a 19th century lighthouse.

11 Gateway of India, Mumbai

Iconic Landmark

Located on the waterfront in Colaba, South Mumbai, this arch monument is Mumbais prime landmark. It was built by the British to welcome King George V and Queen Mary during a royal visit in 1911.

12 Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur

One of Indias Largest Forts

Built by the Rathore clan of Jodhpur in 1460, the well-preserved Mehrangarh Fort towers above 400 feet, overlooking the city.

13 Meenakshi Temple, Madurai

Ancient Hindu Temple

Set on the banks of the Vaigai River, Meenakshi Temple is dedicated to Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva. It is widely recognised for its architecture and 14-coloured multi-tiered gopuram.

14 Statue of Unity, Vadodara

World's Tallest Statue

Located about two hours from Vadodara, the Statue of Unity is dedicated to the Iron Man of India, Sardar Vallabh Bhai Patel. It stands proud at the Sandhu Bet island, overlooking the Sardar Sarovar Dam.

15 Kamakhya Devi Temple, Parwanoo

Pray to the Great Goddess of Illusion

Located atop a hill in Parwanoo, this temple is dedicated to Kamakhya Devi, a Hindu tantric goddess belonging to the Shakti traditions. It is one of the 51 Shakti peeths in India.

16 Trimbakeshwar Temple, Igatpuri

An Ancient Pilgrimage Site

Nestled on the foothills of Brahmagiri Mountain Range, this 18th century temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and features one of the twelve Jyotirlingas.

17 Shree Mahakaleshwar Temple, Ujjain

One Of The 12 Jyotirlingas

A revered holy site for Hindus, the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is architected in Chalukya & Maratha styles and houses a Shiva Lingam which is believed to be Swayambhu (self-manifested).

18 Baga Beach, Goa

Hippie beach shacks

One of the most popular beaches in Goa, Baga Beach offers quirky beach-side shacks and a number of thrilling water sports.

19 Shaniwar Wada, Pune

A Historical Fortification

Built by Bajirao Peshwa, this architectural masterpiece was the erstwhile residence of the Peshwas and will leave you in awe with its massive gates, wooden pillars and a sprawling garden complex.

20 Promenade Beach, Puducherry

Stunning Rocky Beach

Also called Rock Beach, it stretches for approximately 1.5 kms. The statue of Mahatma Gandhi, the old lighthouse, and the remains of the old pier can be spotted from here.

21 Mudumalai National Park, Ooty

A Tiger reserve in the northwestern Nilgiri Mountains

Located amid the Nilgiri Hills, this national park is segmented into 5 ranges - Masinagudi, Thepakadu, Mudumalai, Kargudi and Nellakota.

22 Ellora Caves, Aurangabad

UNESCO World Heritage Site

Featuring Buddhist, Hindu and Jain monuments, Ellora Caves are a stunning rock-cut temple complex with 34 monasteries and temples. It takes about an hour by road to reach Ellora from Aurangabad.

23 Charminar, Hyderabad

Architectural Icon of Hyderabad

Among the most recognizable monuments in India, Charminar is an ancient mosque built over 400 years ago by the Qutb Shahi dynasty after a plague forced them to shift their empire from Golconda to the new city of Hyderabad.

24 Prem Mandir, Mathura

Temple of Gods Love

Built on a 54-acre land, and about 125 feet high, this temple is one of the most popular attractions of the town dedicated to Radha-Krishna and Ram-Sita.

25 Dal Lake, Srinagar

Jewel in Kashmirs Crown

An urban lake fed by River Jhelum, it covers an area of 18 22 square kilometres and is the iconic site for shikara rides, houseboat stays and floating markets.

26 Bhangarh Fort, Sariska

A Famous Haunted Fort

Located on the outskirts of the Sariska Tiger Reserve, this 17th Century fort nestled on the Jaipur-Delhi Highway is regarded as one of the most haunted forts in the country.

27 Hidimba Devi Temple, Manali

A spiritual haven amidst snow-clad hills.

Cocooned amidst the towering deodars of Dhungiri forest, this ancient cave temple dedicated to Goddess Hidimba dates back to 16th century, and is a sight to behold.

28 Paradise Beach, Gokarna

Also Called Full Moon Beach

The rocky beach is ideal for a relaxing swim, and is also popular for camping activities, due to the availability of fresh water here.

29 Tarapith Temple, Tarapith

Prominent Shakti-Peetha Site

Also known as Maa Tara Temple, Tarapith Temple is a key attraction in the city, soaked in mythological stories. It is one of the 51 Shakti-Peethas in India.

30 Akshardham Temple, Delhi

Heritage Hindu Temple

The Akshardham Temple is dedicated to Swaminarayan and reflects Indias ancient culture, traditions and contributions over a span of 10,000 years. Its been featured in Guinness for being the worlds largest culturally-rich temple.

31 Nageshwar Jyotirlinga, Dwarka

Abode of Lord Shiva

Also known as Darukavana in the Shiv Purana, Nageshwar Jyotirlinga is about 20 minutes from the Dwarka city centre. The name Darukuvana originates from the Sanskrit word for deodar forests.

32 Dudhsagar Waterfalls, Goa

A Bike Ride Adventure

Located inside the Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary and Mollem National Park, this multi-tiered milky white waterfall gushes down from a height of 310 metres, making it Indias fifth-highest waterfall.

33 City Palace, Udaipur

Largest Palace in Rajasthan

Built by Maharana Udai Singh and his successors, the City Palace in Udaipur is an architectural marvel nestled on the banks of Lake Pichola.

34 Nubra Valley, Leh

High-Altitude Sand Dunes

Located about five hours from Leh, Nubra Valley is a high-altitude cold desert formed by the union of Shyok and Siachen rivers. It wins you over with its magnificent sand dunes.

35 Lotus Temple, Delhi

Serene Bahai Temple

The Lotus Temple is an edifice of Bahai faith, resembling a lotus flower. Its constructed purely with white marble and designed by Furiburz Sabha. The temple is open to people of all faiths.

36 Victoria Memorial, Kolkata

British-era Palatial Marble Museum

A sprawling marble palatial monument dedicated to the memory of Britans Queen Victoria, this is one of Kolkatas most famous landmarks and was built using the same Makrana Marble as Taj Mahal.

37 Great Rann Of Kutch, Rann of Kutch

Indias Largest Salt Desert

Sprawled over about 10,000 square kilometres, the Great Rann of Kutch is one of the largest salt deserts in the world. It will enchant you with its endless stretch of shimmering land.

38 Hanging Gardens, Mumbai

Fresh air and lush greenery

Perched atop Malabar Hill, lies a sprawling terraced urban park, built to add to the citys green cover. It has prettily manicured green hedges cut in animal shapes and well-maintained walking tracks.

39 Fatehpur Sikri, Agra

Mughal-Era Imperial City

A small fort city near Agra, this place was founded as the Mughal capital by Akbar. This ghost-town now houses unique buildings depicting a blend of Islamic, Hindu and Christian architecture.

40 Nahargarh Fort, Jaipur

The Abode of Tigers

Built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II in 1734, Nahargarh translates to 'abode of tigers'. Nestled amidsts the majestic Aravallis, this iconic fort also houses the famous Jaipur Wax Museum and Glass Palace.

41 Kumbhalgarh Fort, Udaipur

A World Heritage Site

A huge fifteenth century fort built by Rana Kumbha of Mewar which is a great place to visit with family. It lies 3,600 ft above sea level.

42 Calangute Beach, Goa

Bustling flea markets

The largest beach in Goa, also known as the Queen of Beaches, Calangute is ideal for a laid-back experience as well as for some very exciting water adventures.

43 Juhu Chowpatty Beach, Mumbai

Popular Hangout Spot Near the Sea

A vast sandy beach that you might have seen in Bollywood movies, Juhu Chowpatty attracts a large number of visitors due to its prime location. From giant wheels to street food, it has something for everyone.

44 Jallianwala Bagh, Amritsar

Site of the Infamous Jallianwala Massacre

Built in the honour of those who were wounded and martyred in the Jallianwala Massacre, this public garden houses a memorial structure, a museum, and a gallery to commemorate the tragic incident.

45 Moti Doongri Temple, Jaipur

A Hilltop Temple

Situated in the heart of the city, the temple is home to a 500-year-old Ganesha deity and overlooks the famous Birla Mandir.

46 Jantar Mantar Near Delhi, Delhi

Ancient Astronomical Observatory

Jantar Mantar is an astronomical observatory used to map the time of the day in the past. It was built by Maharaja Jai Singh of Jaipur in the year 1724.

47 Raja's Seat, Coorg

Idyllic Sunset Spot

A seasonal garden with flowers and fountains, Raja's Seat is believed to be the spot where the kings of Kodagu spent their evenings enjoying panoramic views.

48 Jag Mandir Palace, Udaipur

Lake Picholas Romantic Jewel

Also known as 'Lake Garden Palace', this floating marvel will take your breath away with its magnificent architecture and gorgeous setting in the middle of the Lake Pichola.

49 Jyotirlinga Temple, Aurangabad

Temple for Lord Shiva

Less than an hour from Aurangabad, the Grishneswar Temple is a legendary temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is the smallest Jyotirlinga temple in India.

50 Vaishno Devi Temple, Katra

A Spiritual Trekking Destination

Seated in the Trikuta Hills, the cave shrine of Vaishno Devi is believed to be a manifestation of Goddess Durga and is visited by thousands of devotees each year.

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List of Tourist Attractions in 2023

A land known for its vibrant culture, heritage, temples and historical significance; India has a lot to offer to its visitors. With an opportunity to experience and choose from an array of destinations, here is a list of top attractions of India that are a must visit!

Taj Mahal, Agra

Located in the ‘city of love’, Taj Mahal is an attraction that sits on the banks of river Yamuna. From magnificent Mughal architecture and Persian interiors to a history dating back to an era bygone, Taj Mahal is a tourist favourite.

Golden Temple, Amritsar

One of the most spiritual places of India, Golden Temple in Amritsar is the holiest shrine, popular for its sacredness and spiritual significance.

The temple is a perfect place to visit and spend time in a serene ambience. Seek blessings at the Golden Temple along with savouring a delicious ‘langar and kada prasad’.

Hawa Mahal, Jaipur

Built by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, Hawa Mahal is a significant attraction in the pink city. The palace is famous for its unique exteriors and small windows.

Qutub Minar, Delhi

A tall minaret located in the heart of the capital of India, Qutub Minar is a soaring tower that has withstood the ravages of time and attracts tourists from across the globe. The tower is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is a popular monument that talks about the history of bygone era.

Statue of Unity, Vadodara

One of the tallest statues of the world, and taller than the Statue of Liberty, Statue of Unity is an ode to the ‘Iron Man of India’ – Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. The bronze statue stands at the Sandhu Bet Island and overlooks the Narmada Dam.

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25 Best Places to Visit in India for an Incredible Holiday Experience

Home / Blog / 25 Best Places to Visit in India for an Incredible Holiday Experience

India’s cultural heritage, culinary arts, mesmerizing landscapes, and architectural wonders always attract tourists from all across the globe. India is a beautiful fusion of old and new traditions, cultures, and festivals, which fill the air with a sense of perpetual discovery. From the snowy landscapes of the Himalayas to the serene beaches, delightful bustling cities, ancient temples, and emerald forests, it leaves travelers awe-inspired and captivated all the time. With vibrant festivals and amazing cuisines, the wonders of India at every step lead you to a new India you have never seen before.

India has amazing travel destinations to showcase to the world. A country steeped in history, culture, and fantastic natural splendors, every moment here is an unforgettable memory. In India, each region, each city, and each village has its own story to tell, inviting you to be a part of its culture and create your own unforgettable tale. This is also the reason why India can’t be confined to definitions. Whoever comes to India takes a new version of India with them.

Here is the list of the top 25 tourist places in India that every traveler must visit at least once in their life, whether they are national or international travelers.

• Agra, Uttar Pradesh
• Jaipur, Rajasthan
• Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
• Alleppey, Kerala
• Amritsar, Punjab
• Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
• Kaziranga National Park, Assam
• Khajjiar, Himachal
• Jodhpur, Rajasthan
• Pondicherry
• Shimla, Himachal
• Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh
• Gangtok, Sikkim
• Mysore, Karnataka
• Darjeeling, West Bengal
• Hampi, Karnataka
• Munnar, Kerala
• Ranthambore, Rajasthan
• Udaipur, Rajasthan
• Jaisalmer, Rajasthan
• Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

Top Recommended Tour Packages

• All Inclusive Popular Rajasthan Tour Packages
• All Inclusive Popular Ladakh Tour Packages
• All Inclusive Popular Himachal Tour Packages
• All Inclusive Popular Uttarakhand Tour Packages
• All Inclusive Popular Kerala Tour Packages

Agra – The Love Paradise

Agra, this beautiful city, unfolds timeless marvels and India’s rich cultural heritage. It stands as one of the most visited heritage tourist destinations in India and is, in fact, the top choice among international travelers exploring the country.

Steeped in history, the ancient city of Agra reveals captivating tales of the Mughal empire. The city also finds mention in the Mahabharata as Agraban, an important place in Brijbhumi (the land of Lord Krishna). At the heart of Agra lies its crowning jewel, the magnificent Taj Mahal, the most iconic tourist attraction in India and one of the Seven Wonders of the World. The Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site , stands as a formidable symbol of power and resilience, boasting majestic palaces and intricate marble inlays. The bustling bazaars, aroma of spices, colorful handicrafts, marble and stone inlay work products, and authentic Mughal cuisine will become cherished memories to carry with you forever.

Highlights of Agra Tourism:

• Taj Mahal – The world’s most iconic symbol of love.
• Agra Fort – Where the walls whisper tales of Mughal Emperors.
• Mehtab Bagh: A Photographer’s Paradise at Sunset!
• Kinari Bazaar – Shop, Stroll, and Feel the heartbeat of Agra.
• Local Cuisine – Delectable Mughlai cuisine and Indian street food.
• Fatehpur Sikri – Once the capital of the Mughal Empire, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Chini Ka Rauza – A beautiful fusion of Indian and Persian architecture.
• Sikandra – Tomb of Mughal Emperor Akbar.

Jaipur – Realm of Royalty

The land of magnificent palaces and forts, the Pink City of Jaipur beckons you into a world of bliss. It stands as one of the most popular tourist destinations in India for a family vacation. You will be amazed by the immense beauty of the royal gardens built by the Rajput kings, palaces and forts showcasing majestic Rajput and Mughal styles, fun-filled parks perfect for family picnics, delightful eateries, and movie theaters as you delve deeper into the heart of Jaipur. Jaipur’s heritage sites, art and crafts, culinary traditions, bazaars, and folk performances will leave you enchanted forever.

Highlights of Jaipur Tourism

• Hawa Mahal – The Palace of Winds.
• Amer Fort – Timeless fortresses of Rajput royalty and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• City Palace – A legacy of Rajput Kings and Queens.
• Jantar Mantar – The world’s largest stone observatory.
• Chokhi Dhani – Embrace the cultural heritage of Rajasthan.
• Gaitore – Tomb of Jaipur Kings.
• Elephant Safari at Amer Fort – Ride on an elegant elephant up to the majestic Amer Fort.
• Puppet Shows – Enjoy colorful puppets depicting Rajasthan’s rich cultural heritage.
• Hot Air Balloon Ride – Soar high and embrace Jaipur’s aerial charm.

Also Read: Top Tourist Places in Rajasthan

Varanasi – Spiritual Soul of India

The soul of India, Varanasi , situated on the holy banks of the Ganges, suspends time for tourists. It ranks among the top religious travel destinations in North India, offering solace amidst the divine confluence of life and death. The Ganges River serves as the lifeline of this ancient city, bestowing upon it a unique sanctity that is said to be the abode of Lord Shiva. In Varanasi, Lord Shiva channeled the holy waters of the Ganges to the Earth. The mystical charm and ethereal beauty of Varanasi are evident through its ghats, the wholesome Ganga Aarti, melodious chants, and fervent prayers.

Drifting along the tranquil waters in a boat, you will be delighted to witness pilgrims offering prayers and taking a holy dip in the Ganges. The Ganges River draws nourishing energy from the sun, evident in its blissful rapids that respond to the sun’s first rays on the river surface. The river comes alive, shimmering like a thousand diamonds, and blesses the devotees with its essence. Varanasi is a place to discover your soul, regain your peace, and become one with God.

Highlights of Varanasi Tourism

• Ganga Aarti at the Ghats of Varanasi – A soul-stirring experience, a divine spectacle.
• Boat Ride at Sunrise – Sail into Serenity: Embrace the Mystical Dawn.
• Sarnath – A place where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon.
• Ghat-side Yoga and Meditation – Embrace tranquility and rejuvenation with riverside yoga and meditation sessions.
• Ramnagar Fort – Treasures of Varanasi’s past.
• Vishwanath Temple – The Holy Abode of Lord Shiva.
• Varanasi Street Food – A culinary journey celebrating the heritage of Varanasi.
• Shopping at Varanasi Markets – Exquisite Silk Sarees, textiles, and handicrafts.

Also Read: Best Religious Places to Visit in India

Alleppey – Magical Backwaters

Alleppey is one of the most enchanting travel destinations to explore in South India. It’s a beautiful paradise of tranquil backwaters, awe-inspiring beaches, and lip-smacking seafood. Whether you’re seeking a place to relax your soul on the beaches or looking forward to spending peaceful moments on amazing houseboats, Alleppey is undoubtedly the best choice for a family vacation in India. Nestled along the emerald waters of Vembanad Lake, it opens its arms to showcase the timeless charm of Kerala’s backwaters.

A houseboat tour would be the best way to explore lush green landscapes, quaint villages, paddy fields, and narrow canals lined with beautiful palm trees. Also, behold the beautiful beaches kissing the shores with tender affection. The simplicity and beauty of life define Alleppey Tourism in the best way.

Highlights of Alleppey Tourism

• Backwater Cruise – Alleppey’s backwater magic.
• Alleppey Beach – Sun, Sand, and Solace.
• Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary – Nature’s Winged Treasures.
• Vembanad Lake – Enchant your Soul.
• Ayurvedic Spa – Ayurveda’s nourishment.
• Kuttanad Paddy Fields – Magical Lush Greenery.
• Alleppey Cuisine – Coastal Delights.

Also Read: Best Hill Stations to Explore in Kerala

Goa – Soul’s Refreshing Haven

The sun-kissed shores of Goa are among the most beautiful and top-rated travel destinations to visit in India. It is the smallest state of India in terms of area, but this pocket-sized paradise holds magic in its soul. As you set foot on this coastal haven, the soothing waves, beautiful sunrise and sunset views, vibrant nightlife, seafood, and balmy weather wash away all your worries.

Perfect for a laid-back family vacation, Goa is absolutely worth visiting when it comes to relaxation and the rejuvenation of mind, body, and soul. You will also behold UNESCO-listed majestic old sites like churches and cathedrals, serving as symbols of its colonial past. Vibrant local markets offer a place to buy traditional handicrafts, jewelry, beachwear, and home decor. Goa is a fun place to experience exciting water adventure activities, such as jet skiing, parasailing, and swimming, adding delight to your adventure trip.

Highlights of Goa Tourism

• Goa’s Spa and Wellness Retreats – Reconnect with your mind, body, and soul.
• Goa Beaches – Endless Fun and Water Adventures.
• Dudhsagar Falls – Beautiful Milky Cascades.
• Old Goa – Goa’s Rich Historical Heritage.
• Anjuna Flea Market – Goa’s Bohemian Bazaar.
• Nightlife of Goa – Party All Night.
• Cruise on Mandovi River – Sail through Goa’s serenity.
• Spice Plantations – Embrace Goa’s aromatic spice plantations.

Also Read: Baga Beach Travel Guide Goa

Amritsar – Divine Nourishment

Amritsar, a city that resonates with the soul of India, stands as a testament to the nation’s rich cultural heritage, spiritual significance, and timeless love. It is one of the best travel destinations to visit in North India. There is a profound sense of spirituality that lies in the ambiance of this beautiful town.

Amritsar, with its blend of spirituality, heritage, and love, casts an enchanting spell on all who venture into its embrace. It’s a city of eternal bliss that leaves an indelible mark on the hearts of wanderers. As the sun sets over the horizon, Amritsar’s divine aura lingers, weaving a melody of memories that will be cherished for a lifetime.

Highlights of Amritsar Tourism

• Golden Temple: Divine Serenity at India’s Holiest Shrine!
• Jallianwala Bagh: Remembering Sacrifice on Hallowed Grounds!
• Wagah Border Ceremony: Patriotic Bliss.
• Amritsari Kulcha: Spicy Delights of Punjab!
• Guru ka Langar: Nourishment of Equality and Love!
• Durgiana Temple: An Awe-Inspiring Spiritual Haven!
• Hall Bazaar Shopping: Shopper’s Delight, Treasures Unfold!
• Partition Museum : Tales of Tragedy and Resilience!
• Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum : Punjab’s Royal Legacy!
• Harike Wetland: Birdwatcher’s Paradise.

Tawang – Himalayan Gem

Tawang brings forth the bliss of the remote reaches of Arunachal Pradesh. Renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, beautiful historical attractions, and deep-rooted spiritual heritage, Tawang has been captivating the souls of travelers for ages. It ranks among the most beautiful tourist destinations to visit in India for Himalayan holidays. Surrounded by stunning snow-capped peaks, frozen lakes, picturesque Buddhist monasteries, serene landscapes, delightful markets, and winding mountain passes, Tawang’s natural treasures offer beautiful retreats for solace seekers, solo backpackers, honeymoon couples, and families.

It is a perfect travel destination for a soothing mountain holiday. The ambiance of Tawang exudes a sense of serenity. Everything here is pleasing to the senses. Moreover, it also offers rewarding trails for adventure seekers. The Tawang Chu River and its surrounding valleys provide picturesque routes for trekking and camping, allowing you to immerse yourself in the unspoiled beauty of the Himalayas. Indeed, Tawang’s natural wonders never cease to impress wanderers. One must visit Tawang for the best Himalayan holidays in India.

Highlights of Tawang Tourism

• Tawang Monastery: Spiritual Serenity in the Himalayas!
• Sela Pass: A Majestic Mountain Passage!
• Madhuri Lake: A Bollywood Star’s Reflection!
• Tawang War Memorial: Saluting the Bravehearts!
• Nuranang Waterfall: Nature’s Cascading Beauty!
• Gorichen Peak Trek: Conquer the Himalayan Heights!
• Tawang Craft Centre: Traditional Artisan’s Haven!
• Pankang Teng Tso Lake: A Tranquil Alpine Gem!

Also Read: Best Places to Visit in Northeast India Tour

Kaziranga National Park – Thrilling Wilderness

Kaziranga offers a window to discover the soul of India’s wild realm. It is among the best travel destinations to visit in India for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. The landscapes of Kaziranga will captivate your heart. The Brahmaputra River flows majestically through the outskirts of Kaziranga, adding a touch of serenity and beauty to the landscape. A peaceful boat cruise on the river will showcase the finest spectacle of nature’s beauty. You will also spot various aquatic species, including river dolphins and migratory birds. Sunset views from the riverbanks enchant and fine-tune the spirit of a traveler.

Kaziranga National Park is a landmark destination you must visit at least once in your lifetime. It’s a wonderful UNESCO World Heritage site and a true wildlife wonderland in the heart of Assam. It serves as a beautiful shelter for the world’s largest population of the endangered one-horned rhinoceros. The thrilling jeep safaris or elephant rides will reveal the park’s lovely wilderness, where you may encounter not only rhinos but also majestic Asian elephants, swamp deer, water buffaloes, and the elusive Royal Bengal tiger. Kaziranga’s extraordinary biodiversity and mesmerizing natural vistas make it an amazing wildlife destination to explore in India.

Highlights of Kaziranga Tourism

• Kaziranga National Park: Where the Wild Roams Free!
• One-Horned Rhinos: Home of the Majestic Rhinoceros!
• Jeep Safari Adventure: Into the Heart of the Jungle!
• Elephant Safari: A Regal Ride through Wildlife’s Kingdom!
• Birdwatcher’s Paradise: Feathers, Flights, and Fascination!
• Breathtaking Landscapes: Nature’s Canvas Unfolds!
• Orchid Park: A Symphony of Rare Blooms!
• Biodiversity Hotspot: Unveiling Mother Nature’s Treasures!
• River Cruises on Brahmaputra: Serenade Along India’s Mighty River!
• Kaziranga’s Tribal Culture: Traditions Preserved in Time!

Also Read: Top Places to Visit Near Kaziranga National Park

Khajjiar – Nature’s Blessings

With the incredible charm of the Dhauladhar Mountain range, Khajjiar stands as a beautiful nature paradise to visit in India. Situated at an altitude of 6500 ft, Khajjiar’s lush green meadows, dense pine and deodar forests, serene Khajjiar Lake, and Chamera Lake welcome you with a sense of tranquility and enchantment. In Khajjiar, you will also discover a beautiful wildflower known as Vacha.

The crisp mountain air and beautiful meadows create a postcard-perfect setting. If you are seeking wonderful romantic places, then Khajjiar is one of the best destinations for honeymoon couples in India. Beyond its scenic beauty, Khajjiar is also revered as a place of spiritual significance. The Khajji Nag Temple, dedicated to the serpent god Khajji Nag, is an ancient wooden temple located amidst the forest, adding an aura of mystique to the landscape. Surrounding the temple, the dense forest’s ethereal charm rejuvenates the soul. Khajjiar offers amazing adventure activities. A thrilling paragliding session, horse riding, and zorbing make a Khajjiar trip an unforgettable experience amidst the scenic beauty of the Himalayas.

Highlights of Khajjiar Tourism

• Khajjiar Lake: The Mini Switzerland of India!
• Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary: Wild Encounters in Nature’s Sanctuary!
• Khajji Nag Temple: Divinity amidst Tranquil Meadows!
• Adventure Sports Hub: Adrenaline in the Hills!
• Panch Pandav Tree: Legend of the Five Brothers!
• Khajjiar Ground: Picnic Paradise in the Lap of Hills!
• Dainkund Peak: Touch the Sky at Khajjiar’s Highest Point!
• Photography Delight: Frames of Beauty Everywhere!
• Khajjiar Meadows: A Green Carpet Unfolds Before You!
• Chamera Lake: Boating Bliss Surrounded by Scenic Beauty!

Also Read: Top Tourist Places in Himachal Pradesh

Jodhpur – The Lovely Blue City

The city of Jodhpur in Rajasthan is one of the most visited travel destinations in India. It’s one of the most beautiful places with its azure blue buildings, mesmerizing forts, bustling markets, and amazing culinary experiences.

Jodhpur offers a gateway to the Thar Desert, where an adventure into the heart of the desert awaits. Thrilling camel safaris through the sand dunes and a night’s stay under the stars at the desert camp, where traditional music and dance performances bring alive the rich cultural heritage of Rajasthan, offer a unique escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. It provides a chance to connect with nature and the mystique of the desert. The royal grandeur of the Marwar dynasty is seen in the beauty of majestic forts. The bustling bazaars showcase the city’s rich culture and heritage. Jodhpur is a wonderful travel destination in India where the lively spirit and warm hospitality of the people, along with enduring traditions, offer a great opportunity to dive deep into Rajasthan’s joyful ambiance and vibrancy.

Highlights of Jodhpur Tourism

• Mehrangarh Fort: Rising Majesty Amidst Blue Hues!
• Umaid Bhawan Palace: Regal Grandeur Preserved in Time!
• Blue City Charm: Lost in the Enchanting Blue Labyrinth!
• Jaswant Thada: Whispers of Marble Elegance!
• Bazaars and Bazaars: Shop, Bargain, and Savor Jodhpur’s Essence!
• Desert Safari: Magical Dunes and Tales of the Thar!
• Clock Tower Market: A Beautiful Fusion of Colors and Cultures!
• Mandore Gardens: History’s Blossoming Retreat!
• Zip Lining at Mehrangarh: A Royal Adventure!
• Osian Temples: Divine Vibes in the Desert Sands!

Andaman Islands – A Wealth of Water Adventures

Andaman is a wonderful tropical paradise in the heart of the Bay of Bengal. If you love beaches and are seeking a laid-back vacation with family and friends, then the Andaman Islands are the best place to explore in India.

Turquoise waters, palm-fringed beaches, and lush greenery delight the senses. Here, stunning sunsets paint the sky with beautiful hues of orange and pink, providing treasure-worthy views for photographers. The island boasts some of the best adventure opportunities in India.

It offers some of the finest scuba diving sites and snorkeling opportunities, making it a dream destination for water enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The Andaman Islands also provide travelers with an amazing opportunity to embrace the rich tribal culture and history of the region. The Anthropological Museum showcases the culture and lifestyle of the indigenous tribes, such as the Jarawas and Sentinelese, preserving the island’s unique heritage. The picture-perfect setting of the Andaman Islands offers a blissful escape that promises cherished memories for soulful wanderers. If you are a beach lover, then it must undoubtedly be included in your India travel bucket list.

Highlights of Andaman Tourism

• Radhanagar Beach: Asia’s Best Beach: A Tropical Paradise!
• Cellular Jail: Witness the Saga of India’s Freedom Struggle!
• Scuba Diving in Havelock: Discover the Hidden Underwater Wonderland!
• Ross Island: A Hauntingly Beautiful Abandoned Settlement!
• Elephant Beach: Snorkel with Colorful Marine Life!
• Barren Island Volcano: India’s Only Active Volcano!
• Neil Island: Tranquil Retreat with Delightful Sunsets!
• Mangrove Kayaking: Paddle through Nature’s Mystique!
• Limestone Caves in Baratang: A Journey into Earth’s Depths!
• Chidiya Tapu: Birdwatcher’s Delight at Andaman’s Sunset Point!

Also Read: Best Places to Visit in South India

Pondicherry – A Relaxing Getaway

Pondicherry stands as a top travel destination in India that leaves a lasting impression on every wanderer with its laid-back charm, colonial architecture, and culinary offerings. It is home to many serene beaches that provide an escape from the chaos of the world. The sea breeze caresses your skin, and the waves gently kiss the shore, while picturesque streets, quaint cafes, and boutique stores offer delightful experiences in Pondicherry. The colonial-era architecture, tree-lined boulevards, and pastel-colored buildings give Pondicherry an old-world European feel.

The serene ambiance of Auroville would captivate your senses. It is an experimental community devoted to unity, peace, and spiritual harmony. Auroville is also a meditation center that represents the town’s spiritual core. Pondicherry’s tranquil atmosphere and cultural fusion make it a captivating destination for travelers of all kinds. In Pondicherry, every meal is a celebration of cultural diversity and culinary artistry. Indeed, Pondicherry’s unique blend of cultures and serene atmosphere makes it one of the top travel destinations to explore in South India.

Highlights of Pondicherry Tourism

• Auroville: Spiritual Nourishment
• Promenade Beach: Serene Bliss
• French Quarter Walk: France in India’s Heart
• Paradise Beach: Solace-Seeking Paradise
• Scuba Diving: Underwater Wonders
• Matrimandir: Peaceful Delight
• Arikamedu: Revel in the Charms of Ancient History
• Pondicherry Botanical Garden: Nature’s Colorful Treasures
• French Cuisine Delights: Savor Culinary Magic from Across the Globe

Ladakh – A Lovely Dreamscape

Ladakh , known as the “Land of High Passes,” tops the list of India’s top tourist destinations with its breathtaking landscapes and rugged terrains. It’s a dream destination for every wanderer. Nestled in the Himalayas, the snow-capped mountains, crystal-clear lakes such as Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri, ancient monasteries, rocky cliffs, and beautiful cold deserts soothe one’s soul. At night, Ladakh transforms into an enchanting spectacle, as the clear skies allow for stargazing like nowhere else. Ladakh’s spiritual heritage beckons wanderers who seek divine grace and inner tranquility. The monasteries, adorned with colorful prayer flags and ancient murals, exude a sense of reverence. For adventure seekers, Ladakh presents a thrilling playground for activities like trekking, river rafting, and mountain biking. The warm hospitality of the locals and Ladakh’s stunning landscapes captivate the hearts of travelers from all over the world.

Highlights of Ladakh Tourism

• Pangong Lake: Reflecting Heaven’s Blue in Earth’s Highest Realm!
• Nubra Valley: A Beautiful Desert Oasis
• Magnetic Hill: Gravity’s Mystique!
• Hemis Monastery: Buddhist Spirituality in a Tranquil Abode!
• Khardung La Pass: Gateway to Nubra and Shyok!
• Tso Moriri Lake: A Gem Hidden in the Himalayas!
• Spituk Gompa: A Glimpse into Ladakh’s Ancient Culture!”
• River Rafting on Zanskar River: Thrills Amidst Gorgeous Landscapes!
• Shanti Stupa: A Symbol of Peace and Harmony!
• Chadar Trek: Walking on Frozen Dreams!

Also Read: Best Trekking Destinations in Ladakh

Shimla – Hilly Bliss

The ‘Queen of Hill Stations,’ Shimla, stands as one of the most iconic hill station destinations to explore in North India. Shimla’s picturesque beauty and its nostalgic connection to the past make it a delightful destination for tourists. You will be spellbound by the charming buildings, such as the iconic Viceregal Lodge, once the summer residence of British viceroys, the stunning Mall Road lined with quaint shops and cafes, and the cool mountain breeze that rejuvenates your senses. Shimla’s mesmerizing ambiance makes it one of the best choices for mountain holidays in India.

For nature lovers and adventure seekers, Shimla offers wonderful and thrilling experiences. Adventure activities like paragliding, river rafting, and zip-lining will definitely make your day. Trekking is also one of the best adventure activities to enjoy in Shimla, offering beautiful trails to rejuvenate the senses. The Toy Train ride provides an amazing chance to witness the pristine beauty of Shimla’s surroundings and experience the romance of old-world train travel. The city’s beautiful combination of history, nature, and thrilling experiences make it a sought-after destination for travelers seeking a peaceful and memorable family vacation in India.

Highlights of Shimla Tourism

• Mall Road: Shimla’s Lifeline!
• Kufri: Winter Wonderland!
• The Ridge: Festive Vibes!
• Jakhu Temple: Seek Divine Blessings!
• Toy Train Ride: Shimla’s Heritage Track!
• Annandale: Sports and Picnics Amidst Nature’s Beauty!
• Chadwick Falls: Nature’s Cascade!
• Viceregal Lodge: Stepping into Colonial Elegance!
• Scandal Point: Where Shimla’s Tales Whisper in the Air!
• Ice Skating at Circular Road: Frozen Delights!

Also Read: Best Places to Visit in Spiti Valley Himachal

Khajuraho – Tales of Passion and Art

Khajuraho is a beautiful realm of enchantment that allows you to witness the mesmerizing fusion of ancient temples and exquisite sculptures. The Khajuraho group of temples intrigues and captivates visitors from around the world. It is one of the top heritage travel destinations to visit in India. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it astounds travelers with captivating carvings depicting tales of love, devotion, and spirituality. Out of the original 85 temples, only 22 have survived the test of time. The skillfully crafted sculptures transport you to a bygone era. Apart from its architectural wonders, Khajuraho is also famous for its annual dance festival, which celebrates India’s classical dance forms. Khajuraho’s dance festival is a treat for art lovers and cultural enthusiasts, making it an ideal time to experience the city’s vibrancy and artistic flair. Travelers from across the globe come to Khajuraho to understand India’s diverse cultural heritage.

Highlights of Khajuraho Tourism

• Khajuraho Temples: Spectacular Architectural Marvels Carved in Stone!
• Light and Sound Show: History through Illumination!
• Kandariya Mahadev Temple: Where Sculptures Dance in Stone!
• Panna National Park: Exciting Wildlife Encounters!
• Western Group of Temples: A Journey into Intricate Artistry!
• Raneh Falls: Cascading Beauty of Nature’s Masterpiece!
• Eastern Group of Temples: Spiritual Oasis in Khajuraho’s Heart!
• Panna Diamond Mines: Exploring India’s Glittering Legacy!
• Ajaigarh Fort: Unraveling Tales of Ancient Grandeur!
• Beni Sagar Dam: Tranquility and Serenity by the Water!

Also Read: Madhya Pradesh Tourism & Travel Information

Gangtok – Enchanting Himalayan Shangri-La

Gangtok is not only a beautiful hill station; it’s also an amazing cultural center that celebrates the essence of Buddhism. Its tranquil beauty and charming ambiance make Gangtok a rejuvenating escape for wanderers of all kinds. Gangtok has a lovely vibe, making it one of the best hill station destinations to visit in India for a refreshing mountain vacation. The fresh mountain air and warm smiles of the locals instantly make you feel at home.

Immerse yourself in the breathtaking vistas of lush valleys and verdant landscapes that stretch as far as the eye can see. Gangtok offers a unique journey into the heart of Buddhism. Monasteries such as The Enchey Monastery and Do Drul Chorten provide an opportunity to witness the rich Buddhist traditions of the region.

Gangtok’s spiritual heritage offers unique opportunities to experience different cultural traditions. Beyond the serene and spiritual charm, Gangtok is a wonderful playground for adventure enthusiasts. It has something for every type of adventurer. From novices to seasoned adventurers, the thrill of river rafting in the icy waters of the Teesta River and paragliding over the mountains and valleys would definitely be an exhilarating experience. The pristine lakes, rugged terrains, and delightful weather make holidays in Gangtok refreshing to the core.

Highlights of Gangtok Tourism

• Tsomgo Lake: A Serene Jewel of Sikkim’s Beauty!
• Nathu La Pass: A Gateway to Himalayan Beauty!
• MG Marg: Embrace Gangtok’s Charm!
• Hanuman Tok: Spiritual Serenity!
• Tashi Viewpoint: A Himalayan Panorama!
• Ganesh Tok: Seek Blessings with a Mesmerizing View!
• Enchey Monastery: Divinity Meets Majestic Peaks!
• White Water Rafting in Teesta River: Adventure in Nature’s Rapids!
• Banjhakri Falls: Nature’s Rhythm

Also Read: Top Tourist Places in Sikkim

Mysore – Realm of Colors and Traditions

Mysore is steeped in history and grandeur. It’s a beautiful city of vibrant culture and amazing hospitality in tourism. It is one of the best family-friendly travel destinations in India.

Surrounded by the picturesque Chamundi hills, Mysore is a wholesome destination that has been captivating tourists with its magnificent palaces, shopping malls, churches, mosques, and lovely nature parks. If you are a city traveler, Mysore must be on your India travel bucket list. Not only will you see the city’s rich heritage, but you’ll also experience the lively festivals that add an amazing dimension to Mysore’s tourism.

Mysore hosts a 10-day-long Dussehra festival. The city adorns itself with decorative lights, and processions showcasing the city’s rich heritage captivate spectators. You will also get to experience the amazing cultural legacy of Karnataka at the Folklore Museum, which showcases an array of folk art, musical instruments, and traditional attire of Karnataka.

Apart from the cultural scene, Mysore is also renowned for its intricate silk weaving, producing exquisite Mysore silk sarees and textiles that reflect the city’s artistic finesse. Mysore’s artistic and cultural heritage leaves a lasting impression in the minds of travelers.

Highlights of Mysore Tourism

• Mysore Palace: Timeless Royal Charm!
• Chamundi Hill: Breathtaking Views!
• Brindavan Gardens: Dancing Fountains!
• Philomena’s Church: Gothic Marvel in the Heart of Mysore!
• Mysore Zoo: Mesmerizing Encounter with Wildlife!
• Karanji Lake: Avian Haven!
• Devaraja Market: Shopping Time!
• Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace: Mysore’s Historical Tales
• Jayalakshmi Vilas Mansion: Timeless Elegance!
• Mysore Rail Museum: World of Trains!

Also Read: Popular Waterfalls in Karnataka

Darjeeling – Where Mountains Gaze with a Smile

Nestled in the lap of the beautiful eastern Himalayas, Darjeeling is a breathtaking hill station to visit in India for a wholesome vacation with family and friends. If you are fond of traveling to mountain destinations, then in Darjeeling, you will witness the most awesome sunrise and sunset views over the snow-capped peaks of Kanchenjunga.

Darjeeling is also a pilgrimage to the world’s finest tea plantations. The aroma of freshly plucked tea leaves delights the soul. Darjeeling’s culinary scene offers a variety of delectable Tibetan, Nepali, and Bengali dishes that showcase the celebration of nature’s abundance.

The diverse cultural experience makes the Darjeeling tour a wholesome experience. The monasteries offer a sense of solace and spiritual connection. Don’t forget to ride the iconic Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage site, that chugs its way through emerald tea gardens and quaint villages, offering picturesque views at every turn. The welcoming locals make the ambiance of Darjeeling very delightful.

Highlights of Darjeeling Tourism:

• Darjeeling Himalayan Railway: Chugging Through the Misty Mountains!
• Tiger Hill: Beauty of Sunrise over the Himalayas!
• Tea Garden Tours: Sip Serenity!
• Peace Pagoda: For Panoramic Views!
• Batasia Loop: Engineering Marvel with Scenic Beauty!
• Darjeeling Ropeway: Aerial Adventure with Stunning Vistas!
• Rock Garden: Nature’s Artistry Carved in Stone!
• Observatory Hill: Ancient Legends and City Views Unite!
• Singalila National Park: Wilderness Adventure on the Edge of the World!

Also Read: Top Summer Destinations in Northeast India

Hampi – Ancient Ruins of Glory

A city of beautiful architectural marvels, Hampi will take your breath away if you are fond of historical travel destinations in India. Hampi is a treasure trove of ancient ruins, temples, and palaces that once stood as a testimony to the opulence of the Vijayanagara Empire. It’s a mind-boggling UNESCO World Heritage Site. Situated on the banks of the Tungabhadra River, Hampi’s temples transport you to a bygone era. As you explore Hampi’s rocky landscapes, you’ll discover hidden caves, tranquil ponds, and ancient carvings etched into the rocks, showcasing the harmonious blend of art and nature that defines this extraordinary place. Indeed, one must visit Hampi to explore and embrace the rich heritage and culture of India.

Highlights of Hampi Tourism

• Virupaksha Temple: Where History’s Spirituality Soars!
• Hampi Bazaar: Step into the Bustling Heart of the Past!
• Vittala Temple Complex: Divine Spectacle!
• Matanga Hill: Sunrise Bliss with a Panoramic View!
• Elephant Stables: Regal Remnants of Royal Times!
• Coracle Ride on the Tungabhadra River: A Tranquil Float in Time!
• Hampi’s Rock Climbing: Beautiful Boulders Amidst Ruins!
• Queen’s Bath: Luxury’s Echoes in Timeless Architecture!
• Lotus Mahal: Hampi’s Floral Gem!
• Sunset at Hemakuta Hill: Delightful Glow!

Munnar – Misty Hills

Nestled in the bliss of the gorgeous Western Ghats, Munnar is a breathtaking escape into nature’s serene embrace. It is one of the top travel destinations for nature lovers in India. Emerald tea plantations adorn the landscape, creating a mesmerizing canvas of greenery as far as the eye can see. Stroll through the aromatic tea gardens and indulge in the tranquil ambiance that envelops you. Serene waterfalls, pristine rivers, and the most beautiful Neelakurinji flower, which blooms every 12 years, delight the soul. Also, discover the enchanting beauty of Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, and let the rhythmic flow of the cascading waterfalls, such as Attukal and Lakkam, rejuvenate your senses. Munnar is a place of rejuvenation and serenity, where nature’s wonders weave an unforgettable scene of tranquility. No matter the season, Munnar is always blissful to behold. You must plan a long family vacation to enjoy the breathtaking beauty of Munnar.

Highlights of Munnar Tourism

• Eravikulam National Park: Rich Biodiversity of Munnar
• Tea Plantation Tours: Mesmerizing Tea Gardens
• Mattupetty Dam: Enjoy Boating Amidst Scenic Beauty
• Top Station: Enjoy Panoramic Vistas of the Western Ghats
• Echo Point: Shout Your Heart Out and Hear Your Voice Reverberate Amidst the Natural World
• Anamudi Peak: Trek to South India’s Highest Peak
• Kundala Lake: Relax by the Serene Lake with Your Loved Ones
• Attukal Waterfalls: Embrace the Stunning Cascades
• Blossom Park: Unwind in the Beautifully Landscaped Garden, Perfect for Picnics and Nature Walks
• Photo Point: Capture Picture-Perfect Memories

Also Read: Top Things to Do in Kerala

Ranthambore – Paradise for Amazing Wildlife Adventures

Nestled in the heart of Rajasthan lies Ranthambore , a top travel destination for wildlife enthusiasts in India. This national park is a paradise for elusive Bengal tigers, where they roam freely in their natural habitat, adding an aura of mystery and excitement to every safari. The thrilling jeep safaris through the dense forests and open grasslands will show you the most beautiful scenes from nature and glimpses of majestic creatures in their regal splendor. Beyond the tigers, Ranthambore teems with a diverse array of wildlife, including leopards, sloth bears, and a plethora of avian species.

For nature lovers, the ambiance of Ranthambore National Park is a source of rejuvenation. The sight of the setting sun casting a golden glow on the ancient Ranthambore Fort, set amidst the verdant landscape, is an awe-inspiring sight that will leave you spellbound.

For photographers, Ranthambore is a living canvas of raw beauty and untamed wilderness, presenting endless opportunities to capture breathtaking moments. Capture the raw emotions of wildlife as they go about their daily routines – from the graceful movements of deer grazing in the meadows to the intense gaze of a tiger protecting its territory and the cheerful sights and sounds of beautiful bird species. Visiting Ranthambore National Park would definitely be the best choice if you love nature and wildlife. Indeed, it will give you the most thrilling experiences of wildlife tourism in India.

Highlights of Ranthambore Tourism

• Ranthambore National Park: A Land Where Tigers Roam Free in the Wild!
• Safari Adventure: Thrilling Memories!
• Ranthambore Fort: Beauty with Wilderness!
• Padam Talab: Scenic Beauty to Seek Solace
• Kachida Valley: A Photographic Paradise!
• Surwal Lake: Birdwatcher’s Haven in Ranthambore!
• Raj Bagh Ruins: Ancient Relics Amidst Greenery!
• Jogi Mahal: Lakeside Serenity with Elephant Encounters!
• Malik Talao: Tranquil Vibes
• Bakaula: Spectacular Sunsets of the Jungle

Also Read: Ranthambore Jungle Safari Trip- Travel Guide

Udaipur – The Venice of the East

The delightful and vibrant cultural canvas of Udaipur lures travelers from all across the globe to India. Udaipur has been ranked second by Travel and Leisure readers among the top 25 favorite cities in the world in the 2023 list. It has something for everyone: couples, families, backpackers, women travelers – everyone takes something special with them when they leave Udaipur’s lovely shores. Udaipur celebrates art and crafts in all their glory. The bustling market is a playground to showcase local artisans and their colorful creations. From intricately designed handicrafts to exquisite textiles and miniature paintings, the artistic heritage of Udaipur will captivate your heart. Renowned as the ‘City of Lakes’, Udaipur shines brightly in the eyes of honeymoon couples. Nearly every rooftop in Udaipur will offer you beautiful views of majestic palaces, lakes, havelis, and colorful bazaars. Mouth-watering Rajasthani cuisines will definitely satisfy your taste buds and nourish your soul. The mesmerizing performances of traditional Rajasthani folk dancers and musicians at cultural events and festivals bring alive the rich heritage of the region. Udaipur’s artistic soul will culturally enrich your senses.

Highlights of Udaipur Tourism

• City Palace: Royal Beauty amidst Udaipur’s Lakeside!
• Lake Pichola Boat Ride : Sail into the Realm of Romantic Sunsets!
• Jag Mandir: Azure Waters!
• Jagdish Temple: Delightful Intricate Carvings!
• Fateh Sagar Lake: Tranquil Escape with a Loved One
• Saheliyon Ki Bari: Garden of Maidens: A Royal Retreat!
• Vintage Car Museum: History’s Classic Wheels!
• Monsoon Palace: Sunset Views Above Udaipur’s Hills!
• Bagore Ki Haveli: Cultural Heritage!
• Shilpgram Crafts Fair: Craftsmanship and Diversity in Artisans’ Haven!

Jaisalmer – Timeless Beauty of the Sand

Jaisalmer is a wonderful heritage travel attraction to visit in India. Here, you will discover the beauty of honey-hued sand dunes, majestic havelis, palaces, and beautiful temples. One of the most iconic landmarks of the town is Jaisalmer Fort. It is the heartbeat of Jaisalmer. The beautiful fort of yellow sandstone still stands in pride atop Trikuta Hill and is also one of the UNESCO World Heritage sites. Tourists from all over the world come to see the captivating castle of Jaisalmer and the rugged beauty of Thar. It’s also a wonderful place to see fossils belonging to the early Jurassic period.

Jaisalmer offers a thrilling gateway to the vast and mystical Thar Desert. An amazing camel safari will make your day awesome. It takes you into the heart of the golden dunes, where the silence of the desert is only interrupted by the rhythmic footsteps of your trusted camel companion. Jaisalmer’s desert adventures promise a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with nature’s wonders, leaving you with unforgettable memories etched in the sands of time.

Highlights of Jaisalmer Tourism

• Jaisalmer Fort: Gold Rising from the Sands!
• Camel Safari in the Thar Desert: Adventure in the Dunes!
• Patwon Ki Haveli: Intricate Marvels of Sandstone Architecture!
• Sam Sand Dunes: Delights in the Desert!
• Jain Temples: Spiritual Serenity!
• Gadisar Lake: Tranquility Redefined!
• Desert Cultural Centre: Rajasthan’s Rich Heritage!
• Kuldhara Ghost Village: Legends of the Abandoned!
• Bada Bagh: Royal Resting Grounds!
• Jaisalmer Folklore Museum: Rajasthan’s Heritage

Rishikesh – Ganges Bliss

Nestled in the foothills of the majestic Himalayas, Rishikesh is a spiritual haven for solace seekers. The tranquil aura and profound spirituality of Rishikesh never fail to amaze the senses. Known as the Yoga Capital of the World, this enchanting town offers a serene escape from the chaos of modern life. As you practice yoga and meditation on the banks of the holy Ganges River, the melodious chants of mantras refresh your soul. Numerous ashrams and temples dot the landscape, each exuding a sense of ancient wisdom and peace.

Rishikesh is also an adventurer’s paradise, filled with heart-pumping activities that cater to every thrill-seeker. Try white-water rafting through the roaring rapids of the Ganges, zip-line over lush forests, and gain a bird’s-eye view of this picturesque town. For the daring souls, bungee jumping would be an unforgettable experience that leaves you breathless in more ways than one.

Indeed, Rishikesh’s magnetic vibe lies in its ability to help you connect with your inner self, leaving you rejuvenated and spiritually enriched. Adventurers in Rishikesh know no bounds. You will definitely enjoy every moment.

Highlights of Rishikesh Tourism

• Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat: Divine Holy Ganges!
• River Rafting: Embrace the Rapids of Ganga!
• Laxman Jhula: Suspension Bridge Connecting Serenity!
• Beatles Ashram (Chaurasi Kutia): Peaceful Remnants of Musical History!
• Neelkanth Mahadev Temple: Pilgrimage to Lord Shiva’s Abode!
• Yoga and Meditation Retreats: Nourishing Mind, Body, and Soul!
• Rajaji National Park: Wildlife Exploration in Nature’s Lap!
• Jumping Heights: Bungee Jumping Thrills in Rishikesh!
• Parmarth Niketan: For Solace Seekers!
• Neer Garh Waterfall: Best Views of Nature

Delhi – Timeless Heritage, Cuisine, and Urban Delights

The enchanting city of Delhi is a beautiful world where ancient history seamlessly blends with modern marvels. It is a must-visit travel destination to explore in India. The capital of India, Delhi, captivates its visitors with its magnificent architectural marvels, bustling markets, street food, and vibrant neighborhoods.

Delhi is a culinary melting pot that seduces the taste buds with an explosion of flavors that will leave you craving for more. The narrow alleys of Chandni Chowk are a wholesome place for spicy kebabs, Parathas, and savory chaats. The memory of the buttery goodness of traditional Mughlai cuisine and the delectable sweets from the famous sweet shops of Old Delhi will never leave your mind. Witness the grandeur of the Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site, as it stands proudly against the test of time. The mesmerizing Qutub Minar narrates tales of bygone eras, the serene Lotus Temple offers a tranquil escape from the crowd, and the historic Jama Masjid beckons with its spiritual serenity. If you are a city traveler, Delhi’s delightful chaos will always delight your mind.

Highlights of Delhi Tourism

• India Gate: Iconic Arch of Patriotism!
• Qutub Minar: Ancient Marvel Touching the Skies!
• Red Fort: Mughal Majesty Preserved in History!
• Jama Masjid: Spiritual Serenity!
• Akshardham Temple: Artistic Splendor!
• Humayun’s Tomb: Architectural Inspiration for the Taj Mahal!
• Lotus Temple: Universal Harmony and Symbol of Solace!
• Chandni Chowk: Delightfully Chaotic: Delhi’s Bustling Bazaar!
• National Museum: Treasures of India’s Past!
• Lodhi Gardens: Historical Relics!

Also Read: Famous Temples in India

Certainly, India’s richness lies not only in its natural splendors but also in the warmth and hospitality of its people. Every place in India welcomes travelers with open arms and promises a journey of a lifetime. So, you should not wait for the right time. India is beautiful in all seasons. Choose amazing places from the list and enjoy a wonderful vacation in Incredible India.

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Top 20 Tourist Attractions in India (Attractions List 2024)

India , a cultural kaleidoscope, attracts over 1 million foreign tourists every year, according to statistics from the Indian Tourism. Who wouldn't want to witness the cultural attractions and rich heritage of India ?

Embark on a 4,000-year odyssey - from ancient Ajanta Caves to Mughal marvels like the Taj Mahal . Explore a vibrant mosaic of religions and traditions, an unparalleled rich heritage!

There are cultural attractions in India that are so famous that even a 3-year-old would shout out their names. But can you match the Indian Attraction to the stories behind it? Have you ever explored the rich culture and heritage behind the TOP 20 tourist attractions in India ? Let's check the India tourist attractions list and dive right in!

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India culture and history are beautifully intertwined, a vibrant mix of influences and eras that defy easy categorization. This Indian Cultural Attraction guide aspires to be comprehensive, but keep in mind that this Indian Cultural Attraction Guide is not an essay, but a road map that's practical and easy to read. The true magic lies in getting lost in the enchanting complexity of India's heritage itself! So, read on and discover the endless Indian attractions that await!

Cultural Heritage Attractions of Medieval India

In Medieval India, the Islamic Sultanates & Mughal Empire prospered, amalgamating Indian, Persian, and Islamic influences to create a rich cultural heritage . Among the top attractions of India are the famous Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri, Red Fort, Humayun's Tomb, and Qutub Minar. These famous attractions, designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, splendidly exhibit the architectural brilliance and enduring cultural heritage of the Mughal Empire in India.

1 Taj Mahal, Agra: Love Carved in Marble, Most Iconic Attraction in India

Taj Mahal (1632-1654 CE): Mughal dynasty, Islamic, Persian and Mughal styles with Timurid influences.

The Taj Mahal, the Most Famous Attraction in India , is an ivory-white marble mausoleum that stands as a timeless symbol of love. Taj Mahal was commissioned by the Indian Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his third wife Mumtaz Mahal. More than 20,000 Indian artisans dedicated 22 years of their lives to construct this remarkable and renowned monument.

The Taj Mahal's fame goes beyond its historical significance. This Indian attraction's white marble radiates a captivating glow , beautifully reflecting in the calm waters of its surrounding pools. Elaborate floral designs grace its walls, while the four meticulously arranged gardens create a tranquil and harmonious ambiance. Tourists are left in awe of the Taj Mahal's magnificence, its intricate craftsmanship, and the serene atmosphere the most famous Indian attraction exudes.

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• Location: Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India
• Opening Hours: Daily except Fridays (sunrise to sunset)
• Ticket Prices: Foreign Tourists: ₹1100/$15 (entry only) + ₹200/$3 (optional mausoleum access)
• Tip 1: Visit Taj Mahal before sunrise, sunset or full moon night for best views!
• Tip 2: Tour Group enjoys a separate entry(skipping the long queue) and better chance to get limited tickets for full moon view
• Tip 3: Security check at the most famous Indian attractions can be more strict. Be prepared

2 The Red Fort: Power & Glory, Famous Heritage of India's Mughal Dynasty

Red Fort Complex (1638-1648 CE): Mughal dynasty, Indo-Islamic architecture.

The Red Fort Complex, a top Indian attraction and a significant cultural heritage site in Delhi , India, stands as a majestic symbol of Mughal power and architectural splendor . Constructed by Emperor Shah Jahan in the mid-17th century, this opulent fortress served as the lavish residence of Mughal emperors for nearly two centuries. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Red Fort not only represents a monumental structure but also embodies the harmonious fusion of Persian and Indian architectural styles that flourished under Mughal rule.

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Enclosed within the fort's expansive red sandstone walls is a captivating city waiting to be explored. tourists can marvel at the breathtaking Pearl Mosque, an exquisite testament to Mughal artistry. They can envision the grandeur of royal life in the vast Diwan-i-Am (Hall of Public Audience). The Hall of Private Audience, adorned with intricate carvings, offers a glimpse into the emperor's private quarters. The fort's lush gardens, tranquil water channels, and ornately decorated pavilions transport tourists back in time to its glorious past, allowing them to experience the grandeur and heritage of the Mughal era.

• Location: Netaji Subhash Marg, Chandni Chowk, Old Delhi
• Opening Hours: Daily except Mondays (9:30 AM to 4:30 PM)
• Ticket Prices: Foreign Tourists: ₹350 (approx. USD 4.30)

3 Agra Fort: Red Sandstone Wonder, Attraction Right Next to Taj Mahal

Agra Fort (1565-1573 CE): Mughal dynasty, Indo-Islamic architecture.

Situated on the banks of the Yamuna River in India, Agra Fort is a top cultural attraction and a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its rich historical significance. Built by the Indian Mughal emperor Akbar in the 16th century, Agra Fort served as a formidable military stronghold and the seat of Mughal power for nearly a century. Enclosed within its sturdy red sandstone walls is a splendid fusion of architectural styles that beautifully showcases the grandeur of the heritage of Indian Mughal era .

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At this famous attraction in India tourists can wander through the majestic Jahangir Mahal palace, admire the intricate carvings embellishing the Diwan-i-Am (Hall of Public Audience), and be enchanted by the mesmerizing allure of the Sheesh Mahal (Palace of Mirrors). Each of these architectural marvels provides a captivating glimpse into the lives of the Indian Mughal emperors and the exceptional craftsmanship of that era's heritage.

• Location: Agra , Uttar Pradesh, India
• Ticket Prices:Foreign Tourists: ₹500 approx. $ 6 (entry only)
• Tip: Check out the daily Light & Sound Show at Agra Fort

4 Qutub Minar: Echoes of Centuries, Sultan's Heritage in India

Qutub Minar (1193-1366 CE): Islamic monument, Delhi Sultanate (Mamluk and Khalji dynasties).

The Qutub Minar, a top Indian attraction and a symbol of India's cultural heritage, stands proudly in the heart of Delhi . Constructed in the 12th century by Qutub-ud-din Aibak, the first Sultan of Delhi, this architectural marvel served as both a victory tower and a minaret for a mosque. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Qutub Minar embodies the harmonious blend of Islamic and Hindu architectural styles, reflecting the diverse influences that have shaped the history of Delhi.

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The magnificence of the Qutub Minar lies in its intricate craftsmanship and imposing stature. tourists are captivated by the five distinct storeys, adorned with mesmerizing calligraphy and geometric patterns. Climbing the 379 steps rewards them with awe-inspiring panoramic vistas of the city. Exploring the surrounding Qutub Minar complex, which encompasses mosques and tombs, provides a deeperinsight into Delhi's past and offers a glimpse into the artistic legacy that spans across different eras.

• Location: Mehrauli, South Delhi, India
• Opening Hours: Daily (except Mondays) from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM
• Indian Citizens & SAARC/BIMSTEC Countries: ₹30 (approx. USD 0.35)
• Foreign Tourists: ₹500 (approx. USD 6.10)

5 Jama Masjid, Old Delhi: Find Serenity at Top Indian Attraction Amidst the Bustle

Jama Masjid (1644-1656 CE): Mughal dynasty, Islamic architecture.

Located in the heart of Old Delhi, Jama Masjid (Friday Mosque) is a famous Indian attraction and one of the top cultural and heritage landmarks in India. This magnificent mosque, completed in 1656 by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, showcases the grandeur and artistic mastery of the Mughal era. It stands as a significant place of worship, representing the rich Muslim heritage of the city.

Jama Masjid is renowned for its stunning red sandstone architecture adorned with intricate carvings, calligraphy, and towering minarets. tourists to this iconic attraction can marvel at the spacious prayer hall, the exquisite courtyard, and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city from the rooftop. The serene atmosphere of the mosque, coupled with the melodious echoes of the call to prayer (azaan), offers a unique and spiritually enriching experience for tourists of all backgrounds, contributing to the allure of India's cultural and tourism landscape.

• Location: Delhi, India
• Opening Hours: Daily (sunrise to sunset)
• Entry Fee: Free

6 Humayun's Tomb: Mughal gardens with Persian grace, Fusion Heritage Site of India

Humayun's Tomb (1556-1572 CE): Mughal dynasty, Islamic and Timurid influences.

Humayun's Tomb, a top Indian attraction and an integral part of India's cultural heritage , stands proudly in the bustling city of Delhi . As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it holds immense historical significance in Mughal history. Constructed in the mid-16th century by Emperor Humayun's wife, this architectural masterpiece serves as a precursor to the iconic Taj Mahal, showcasing the early stages of Mughal tomb architecture. The tomb's facade, crafted from red sandstone, seamlessly blends Persian and Indian architectural influences, representing a departure from the traditional octagonal style to a square base crowned by a central dome.

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Be enchanted by the intricate geometric patterns and the subtle beauty of white marble embellishments adorning the red sandstone exterior. The expansive charbagh, a four-quartered garden, designed in the Mughal style, serves as a symbol of paradise and provides a serene escape within the vibrant city. Descending into the tomb chamber, tourists gain a glimpse into the historical significance of this architectural marvel. Humayun's Tomb stands as a testament to the exquisite artistry of the Mughals and invites exploration and contemplation within the dynamic cityscape of Delhi.

• Location: Nizamuddin East, Delhi, India
• Ticket Prices: Foreign Tourists: ₹500 (approx. USD 6.10)

7 Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah: The "Baby Taj" Started the White Marble Trend in India

Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah (1622-1628 CE): Mughal dynasty, Islamic, Hindu and Timurid influences.

The Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah, an Indian attraction and a significant cultural heritage site in Agra , India, is often referred to as the " Baby Taj ." Constructed by Mughal Empress Nur Jahan in the early 17th century, this captivating tomb stands as a beautiful testament to her affection for her father. As part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it holds immense historical and architectural importance, serving as a precursor to the iconic Taj Mahal and showcasing the early stages of Mughal tomb architecture's transition from red sandstone to white marble.

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The allure of the Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah lies in its intricate craftsmanship and the juxtaposition of different materials. tourists are mesmerized by the exquisite white marble facade adorned with intricate floral designs, embellished with precious and semi-precious stone inlay work, creating a stunning visual spectacle. The contrasting red sandstone base and the tranquil ambiance of the surrounding gardens further enhance the experience, making it a top attraction for those exploring the rich heritage of Agra , India.

• Location: Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India (near the Taj Mahal)
• Ticket Prices: Foreign Tourists: ₹200 (approx. USD 2.45)

8 Golden Temple: Open Doors, Open Hearts of Sikh's Everlasting Heritage

Golden Temple (1577 CE onwards): Sikhism, a representation of religious tolerance and harmony, ongoing construction and modifications.

The Golden Temple, renowned as Harmandir Sahib, stands as a most exuberant Indian attraction and a significant cultural heritage site. Located in the city of Amritsar, Punjab, India, this UNESCO World Heritage Site holds immense importance for Sikhs, serving as their holiest gurdwara, or place of worship.

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Constructed in the 16th century by Guru Ram Das, the fourth Sikh Guru, the Golden Temple holds a special place as a spiritual and cultural hub for the Sikh faith . Its architectural brilliance showcases the unique style of Sikh architecture, featuring a white marble structure adorned with a dome covered in gold leaf . Embraced by the temple is the Amrit Sarovar, a sacred pool of water, which is held in high reverence by Sikhs. Accessible via a causeway, symbolizing the equality of all individuals in the eyes of God, tourists can immerse themselves in the tranquil atmosphere of the temple and gain insights into Sikhism and its rich history.

• Location: Amritsar, Punjab, India
• Opening Hours: 24 hours a day
• Free Entry: This attraction is free of charge, only a shoe deposit fee
• Langar: The Golden Temple complex also houses a langar, a community kitchen that serves free vegetarian meals to everyone, regardless of their faith or background.

Attractions of Enigmatic Ancient India: Timeless Vedic Heritage

Ancient India was a cradle of civilization, culture, religion, and a treasure trove of cultural attractions. From the captivating cave temples of Ajanta and Ellora to the majestic Dravidian structures exemplified by the Meenakshi Temple, India's top cultural attractions boast architectural brilliance. These remarkable sites showcase the country's rich heritage and serve as a testament to its artistic legacy. India's ancient attractions offer a glimpse into its captivating heritage , making it a famous destination for cultural tourism .

9 Ajanta Caves: Masterpieces Whisper Stories in Stone, Must-see Ancient Attractions

Ajanta Caves (2nd century BCE - 1st century CE): Buddhist cultural heritage, Satavahana dynasty and Gupta Empire period.

The Ajanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, date back to the 2nd century BCE. These rock-cut Buddhist cave temples hold immense cultural value. Initially, Hinayana/Theravadin followers of Buddhism carved six simple and austere caves, where Buddha was worshipped in an aniconic/symbolic form. Later, during the Mahayana phase, exquisite mural paintings adorned the walls, and new caves were excavated.

Tourists can marvel at the towering sculptures, the breathtaking frescoes depicting Buddhist legends, and the serene atmosphere. These caves exemplify one of the greatest achievements in ancient Buddhist rock-cut architecture and offer insights into India's socio-cultural, religious, and political history. The intricate details and vibrant colors offer a glimpse into the artistic mastery and spiritual beliefs of the era, making the Ajanta Caves a unique window into India's rich heritage.

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10 Elephanta Caves: Hindu Deities Come Alive, Caves Housing Enchanting Heritage

Elephanta Caves (5th - 8th centuries CE): Hinduism (Trimurti - Shiva, Vishnu, Brahma).

The Elephanta Caves, a top Indian attraction and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, comprise a collection of cave temples primarily dedicated to the Hindu deity Shiva. These extraordinary caves are located on Elephanta Island, also known as Gharapuri, situated in Mumbai Harbour, around 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) east of Mumbai, in the Indian state of Maharashtra.

Carved meticulously from solid basalt rock, the Elephanta Caves showcase rock-cut stone sculptures, many of which are intricately crafted in high relief. These sculptures embody a harmonious blend of Hindu and Buddhist concepts and iconography, reflecting a syncretism of ideas. With immense historical and artistic significance, the caves serve as a visual narrative of Hindu mythologies, with elaborate carvings that depict captivating tales.

11 Sarnath: Follow the Buddha's footsteps in Iconic Attraction in India

Sarnath (3rd century BCE - 12th century CE): Buddhist pilgrimage site, Mauryan Empire and Gupta Empire period.

Sarnath (also known as Sāranganātha and 鹿野苑), situated near Varanasi, is a top Indian cultural attraction and one of the four most holy sites in Buddhism. The other three sacred sites include Lumbini, Nepal , Bodh Gaya, India , and Kushinagar, India. It holds immense significance for Buddhists worldwide, as it is the place where Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment . This pilgrimage site is a treasure trove of ancient history, art, and spiritual heritage.

Tourists to Sarnath have the opportunity to explore the Dhamek Stupa , a revered structure believed to mark the very spot where Buddha delivered his first sermon . (The stupa is not the original one built by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE, but a later enlargement and reconstruction dating from the 5th to 6th centuries CE). They can marvel at the captivating ruins of ancient monasteries which offer a similar yet distinct vibe from temples in Kathmandu and Monasteries in Lhasa . You can admire the Ashoka Pillar, a towering column adorned with inscriptions that chronicle the early history of Buddhism. The original fragments of Ashoka Pillar's lion capital, along with other archaeological finds, are housed and preserved within the Sarnath Museum . Sarnath offers a deeply spiritual and enriching experience, providing a profound connection to the rich heritage of Buddhism and its teachings.

• Location: Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh, India (near Varanasi)
• Ticket Prices: Foreign Tourists: ₹150 (approx. USD 1.80)

12 Dasaswamedh Ghat: Hindu Heritage Reflected in the sacred waters of the Ganges

Dasaswamedh Ghat (Unknown - Ongoing): Hindu religious site, associated with various Hindu dynasties and kingdoms.

Dasaswamedh Ghat (pronounced as "got" or "gaht", is a broad flight of steps leading down to a body of water), situated on the banks of the Ganges River in Varanasi, India, stands as a top cultural attraction and a vibrant center of Indian heritage and tourism . Its name, "the ghat of ten horse sacrifices," carries a historical legend connecting it with Lord Brahma's ritualistic sacrifice of ten horses. This ghat holds immense significance for Hindus, drawing thousands of devotees daily who come to partake in prayers, rituals, and to immerse themselves in the city's rich cultural traditions.

Tourists have the opportunity to witness the unique atmosphere of Dasaswamedh Ghat by observing the awe-inspiring daily aarti ceremony, a captivating spectacle that involves the offering of lamps, mesmerizing chants, and the sight of floating lamps on the sacred river. The ghat's charm is further enhanced by a fusion of architectural styles, with ancient temples and buildings adding to its allure.

• Location: Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India
• Opening Hours: Daily
• Note: Offerings and boat rides might have separate charges

Attraction of India's Rajput Era: Attraction Showcasing Legacy of Honor & Valor

The Rajput Era in India has left behind a vibrant legacy. The top cultural attractions of this era, such as the majestic forts of Mehrangarh and Amber, stand as testaments to the military prowess and architectural brilliance of the Rajput rulers. Elaborate palaces found in Udaipur and Jodhpur offer a glimpse into their opulent royal lifestyle. There are also Temples and stepwells scattered throughout the region.

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13 Amber Fort: Rajput's Glorious Heritage Through Time

Amer Fort (16th century): Rajput clan (Kachwaha dynasty), Hindu cultural heritage.

Standing tall on a hilltop overlooking Jaipur , Amber Palace, also known as Amer Fort, is a majestic example of Rajput architecture and heritage with influences of Mughal and European architectural styles. Built in the 16th century, it served as the royal residence of the Rajput rulers of Jaipur until the 17th century. The intricate carvings, vibrant murals, and sprawling courtyards showcase the artistic mastery and cultural grandeur of the Rajput era.

Tourists to Amber Palace can embark on a captivating journey through history. Explore the Diwan-e- عام (Hall of Public Audience) and Diwan-e- Khas (Hall of Private Audience), marvel at the Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace) adorned with thousands of tiny mirrors, and climb to the top for breathtaking views of the surrounding Aravalli Hills.

• Location: Amer, Jaipur, India
• Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM (closed on Mondays)
• Ticket Price: ₹500 (approx. US$6.20) for foreign tourists

14 The City Palace: Udaipur's Cultural Heritage of the Mewar Dynasty

City Palace of Udaipur (16th - 19th centuries): Mewar dynasty, Rajput cultural heritage.

The City Palace of Udaipur, a top Indian attraction and a famous cultural heritage site in India, provides a captivating glimpse into the grandeur and cultural legacy of the Mewar dynasty. Standing proudly on the banks of Lake Pichola, this magnificent palace complex has a history spanning nearly 400 years, starting in the 16th century. It served as the royal residence for the Sisodia Rajputs, bearing witness to a rich and eventful past. The City Palace encompasses a plethora of palaces, courtyards, and museums that offer a fascinating insight into the lives, traditions, and artistic expressions of the Mewar rulers.

Embark on a captivating journey through Mewar's legacy as you explore the intricate courtyards adorned with vibrant murals and delicate mosaics. Marvel at the architectural brilliance displayed in the various palaces, each showcasing a unique fusion of Rajput and Mughal styles. Immerse yourself in the courtly life of Mewar through exhibits featuring royal artifacts, weaponry, costumes, and paintings. The City Palace presents tourists with an enchanting opportunity to travel through time, appreciating the artistic legacy and captivating history of the Mewar dynasty, further enhancing India's rich cultural heritage and tourism offerings.

• Location: Located on the eastern banks of Lake Pichola, Udaipur, India
• Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (all days)
• Entry Fee: ₹300 (approx. US$3.70) for adults

15 Mehrangarh Fort: Fort of the Sun Rising from Desert Sands

Mehrangarh Fort (15th century onwards): Rajput clan (Rathore dynasty), Hindu cultural heritage.

Mehrangarh Fort, a top Indian attraction and a famous cultural heritage site in India, known as the "Fort of the Sun," commands a majestic presence atop a hill in Jodhpur. Constructed in the 15th century, this fort served as the formidable stronghold of the Rathore clan, epitomizing the resilience and architectural brilliance of the Rajput dynasty. The City Palace of Udaipur also houses the Crystal Gallery, which displays a rare collection of crystal objects, furniture, and chandeliers.

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Tourists to Mehrangarh Fort can embark on a captivating exploration of its sprawling complex, marveling at its intricate carvings, expansivecourtyards, and immersive museums. From the ramparts, take in panoramic views of the enchanting Blue City, offering a picturesque vista of Jodhpur's unique charm. Witnessing a cannon demonstration provides a fascinating and exclusive glimpse into the fort's historic legacy, further enhancing the allure of Mehrangarh Fort as a must-visit destination for cultural heritage enthusiasts and tourists in India.

16 Hawa Mahal: Palace of Winds, One of The Most Beautiful Attractions of India

Hawa Mahal (1799 CE): Rajput clan (Kachwaha dynasty), Late Mughal and Rajput influences.

Hawa Mahal, a top Indian attraction and a famous cultural heritage site in Jaipur, is also known as the "Palace of Winds." It stands as a remarkable testament to the ingenuity and cultural richness of India. Constructed in the 18th century by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, this architectural marvel served as an extension of the City Palace, providing royal women with a vantage point to observe street life while maintaining their privacy. The stunning latticework facade, boasting 953 windows, is a true embodiment of the distinctive Rajput architectural style, perfectly reflecting Jaipur's renowned nickname, the " Pink City ."

A visit to Hawa Mahal offers a captivating glimpse into the lives of the Rajput royalty. Ascend the narrow steps and peer through the intricately designed jharokhas (windows) to envision the vibrant and bustling life below, just as the women of the royal court once did. The delicate pink sandstone facade, along with the natural cooling effect created by the multitude of windows, provides a unique and enthralling experience, allowing tourists to immerse themselves in the architectural splendor and rich history of India.

• Location: Hawa Mahal Road, Jaipur, India
• Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM (all days)
• Entry Fee: ₹50 (approx. US$0.60)

Attractions of Colonial Era: A Complex Legacy in Stone and Steel

For attractions from India's Colonial, tourists can explore top cultural attractions that showcase architectural marvels famous for reflecting European styles. The Victoria Memorial and the Gateway of India, in particular, stand as iconic examples of these attractions. Additionally, hill stations like Darjeeling provide a unique opportunity to witness the leisurely lifestyle of the British Raj. Alongside, railway stations and administrative buildings offer a glimpse into the colonial planning that shaped the infrastructure of the time.

17 The Gateway of India: Indo-Saracenic Architectural Heritage, A Must-see Attraction

The Gateway of India (1911 CE): British Raj (Indo-Saracenic Revival architecture).

The Gateway of India, an iconic Indian attraction in Mumbai, serves as a significant symbol of the country's colonial heritage and its journey towards nationhood . Built in the early 20th century, it's an Indo-Saracenic blend , combining European triumphal arch form with touches of Mughal details and jali screens.

tourists can admire the Gateway's grandeur - the 26-meter arch, intricate carvings, and stunning harbor views. It's a bustling spot for people-watching, capturing the city's vibrant life and colonial past.

18 Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (Victoria Terminus): Attraction as Living Testament

Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (1887 CE): British Raj (Victorian Gothic Revival architecture).

Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST), formerly known as Victoria Terminus , stands as a famous Indian attraction, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and an iconic symbol of Mumbai, India. Constructed in the late 19th century, it seamlessly blends Victorian Gothic Revival architecture with Indian influences , representing the city's colonial past and cultural heritage . Beyond being a bustling station, the terminus serves as a living testament to Mumbai's historical journey and its rich architectural legacy.

tourists are greeted by the mesmerizing facade adorned with intricate statues and carvings, the majestic high vaulted roof, and the grand central hall. The terminal's grandeur instills a profound sense of wonder, transporting tourists to a bygone era of travel and showcasing the architectural splendor of that time.

19 The Jantar Mantar: Old Science Deciphering the Heavens, One Sundial at a Time

The Jantar Mantar (1720s CE): Mughal Empire (Sawai Jai Singh II), Scientific and astronomical purposes.

The Jantar Mantar, situated in Jaipur , India, is a top cultural attraction and a significant heritage site that goes far beyond being a collection of astronomical instruments. It stands as a captivating testament to scientific curiosity and cultural exchange of Rajasthan . Constructed in the early 18th century by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, a renowned astronomer-king , the Jantar Mantar represents the zenith of pre-modern astronomical observation through the use of monumental instruments. These structures embody the harmonious blend of Mughal and European scientific knowledge , showcasing the intellectual exchange that characterized the era.

Stepping into the Jantar Mantar is akin to stepping into a bygone era of scientific exploration. Tourists are awe-struck by the towering Samrat Yantra, a colossal sundial, and are intrigued by the intricate workings of the Jai Prakash Yantra, a cylindrical structure used to predict the positions of celestial bodies. The grand scale and ingenious design of these instruments evoke a profound sense of wonder and inspire contemplation about humanity's relentless pursuit of understanding the universe.

• Location: Jaipur, Rajasthan, India

20 Basilica of Bom Jesus: The Soul of Goa's Catholic Heritage

Basilica of Bom Jesus (1594-1605 CE): Christianity (Portuguese colonial period).

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Basilica of Bom Jesus is Goa's most revered church. Enshrining the remains of St. Francis Xavier, it's a pilgrimage site for Christians and a symbol of Goa's Portuguese colonial heritage.

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Marvel at the Baroque architecture, with its ornate facade, gilded altars, and exquisite tomb of St. Francis Xavier. Explore the chapels and sacristy, experiencing the rich history and artistic legacy of Goa.

Tips for Visiting Cultural Heritage Attractions in India

• Respectful Attire: Shoulders & knees covered at religious sites. Remove shoes in temples & mosques.
• Etiquette: Ask before photographing people. Respectful volume in prayer areas. Carry small change for vendors.
• Respectful Behavior: Don't disrupt religious practices. Support charities, not beggars. Dispose of waste responsibly.
• Be prepared for crowds: Waiting time could go up to half or a full hour before entry. A tour group might get you exclusive faster entry access at certain cultural heritage attractions in India.
• Enhance Your Experience: Hire a licensed guide. Learn basic Hindi phrases. Bargain respectfully, tip appropriately.

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Top 10 Tourist Attractions In India You Have To See

With more than 30,000 years of history, and the birthplace of numerous cultures and religions, India is an incredible destination with more than a thousand tourist attractions including several World Heritage Sites.

From the magnificent Taj Mahal in Agra to the Golden Temple in Amritsar, India is home to a trove of spiritual, cultural, and historical treasures too numerous to see in one visit. So to help you discover this vibrant land of startling contrasts and spectacular sights, our experts have created a shortlist for you.

If you’re wondering what to see in India, here is a top 10 list of tourist attractions in India not to be missed on your vacation.

The Taj Mahal, one of the new Seven Wonders of the World, is a must-see on any India itinerary.

1. The Taj Mahal, Agra

There are few sights in the world as iconic as the Taj Mahal , which is a must-see on most India itineraries , particularly for travelers on the famous Golden Triangle circuit, linking Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur. A testament to the power of an emperor’s love, this astonishingly beautiful mausoleum was named after Mumtaz Mahal, who was the favorite wife of Shah Jahan.

Construction began upon her death in 1631, and it took 20,000 of the most skilled craftsmen in the Mughal empire 17 years to complete. The queen consort was interred inside in a private chamber at the heart of the monument and Shah Jahan was later buried alongside his wife when he died in 1666. Incorporating many elements of Islamic design including an onion-shaped dome, arches, towering minarets and filigree marble screens, the Taj shows perfect bilateral symmetry along an axis running through the center of the main dome and the surrounding gardens.

While it shines brilliant white from a distance, up close the Taj is adorned with an elegant tracery of scrollwork, leaves, flowers and Islamic motifs, executed in marble. This is enhanced by black calligraphy inlaid around the entrance, and delicate inlaid floral patterns using precious and semi-precious stones such as jasper, lapis lazuli, carnelian, malachite, jade and mother of pearl.

The best time to visit is either at dawn or dusk when the atmosphere is brilliantly altered by the change in lighting. You can view the Taj Mahal by moonlight on five nights of every month, the night of the full moon and the two nights on either side of the full moon.

The foundations of Delhi’s Red Fort is rumoured to have had the decapitated bodies of prisoners built into them for good luck.

2. The Red Fort, New Delhi

New Delhi ’s colossal, crescent-shaped Red Fort, named after the stunning red sandstone that was used in its construction, was built by Shah Jahan in 1648. Also called Lal Qalʿah, it was home to emperors of the formidable Mughal dynasty for almost 200 years, until 1857 when the British took over. It covers a vast area of 254.67 acres ringed by one and a half miles of defensive walls, enclosing a complex of palaces and entertainment halls, projecting balconies, baths and indoor canals, and geometrical gardens, as well as an ornate mosque.

The two most famous structures of the fort complex are the Hall of Public Audience and the Hall of Private Audience. The former boasting 60 red sandstone pillars supporting a flat roof, and the latter, which is smaller, notable for its pavilion of white marble. Turrets and bastions vary in height from 59 ft on the river side to 108 feet on the city side.

It took ten years to construct and is rumoured to have had the decapitated bodies of prisoners built into the foundations for good luck. Be sure not to miss its two largest gates: the impressive Lahore Gate, the fort’s main entrance, and the elaborately decorated Delhi Gate, which was once used by the emperor for ceremonial processions. A sound and light show is held in the evenings, featuring important events in the fort’s history.

The iconic Gateway of India – often called the ‘Taj Mahal of Mumbai’ – impressively welcomes those visitors arriving to Mumbai by sea.

3. The Gateway of India, Mumbai

Standing an impressive 85 feet tall and located on the waterfront at Mumbai Harbour on the tip of Apollo Bunder, overlooking the Arabian Sea, the iconic Gateway of India is a bold yellow basalt arch of colonial triumph and a must-see when in Mumbai . Incorporating Islamic styles of 16th-century Gujarat, it was built to commemorate the arrival of King George V and his wife Queen Mary in 1911 and was opened with much pomp and ceremony in 1924. It was, for a while, the tallest structure in the city.

The Gateway of India was also the setting of a far less triumphant procession of British soldiers in 1948 when India obtained its independence. Notable for its stunning Indo-Saracenic design, a style of architecture that was introduced by the British during their rule in India, it combines diverse elements of the Hindu and Muslim architecture with Gothic cusped arches, domes, spires, tracery, minarets and stained glass, in a uniquely playful style.

This huge archway provides a spectacular backdrop that is as popular among locals as it is tourists. The first structure to welcome visitors entering the city by sea, it is popularly called the ‘Taj Mahal of Mumbai’ and is one of the top tourist attractions in India.

Amer was once the capital of Jaipur state, and its fort was the royal residence of its Rajput rulers.

4. Amber Palace, Jaipur

Amber Palace or Amber Fort, also spelt Amer, was built as a fortified palace in 1592 by Maharaja Man Singh I and has long served as the capital of Jaipur . Carved high up into the hillside, the fort is accessible on foot via a steep climb from the town below. You will enter Amber Fort through the Sun Gate (Suraj Pol), which leads to the Jaleb Chowk, the first courtyard, with its many decorated elephants, and the Shila Devi Temple, dedicated to the goddess of war.

The adjoining Hall of Public Audience (Diwan-i-Am) features finely decorated walls and terraces frequented by monkeys, while the Hall of Pleasure (Sukh Niwas) is notable for its ivory-inlaid sandalwood door, its many flowerbeds, and a channel once used to transport cooling water.

The Temple of Victory (Jai Mandir) is characterized by many decorative panels and a multi-mirrored ceiling. From here, you can enjoy fine views from the palace ramparts over the picturesque Maota Lake below. The zenana (secluded women’s quarters) surrounds the fourth courtyard. The rooms were designed so that the maharaja could embark on his nocturnal visits to his wives’ and concubines’ respective chambers without the others knowing, as the chambers are independent but open onto a common corridor.

Don’t forget that Agra isn’t just home to the Taj Mahal – the Red Fort is also well worth a visit.

5. Agra Fort

With the Taj Mahal located so close by, it is easy to forget that Agra has one of the finest Mughal forts in India. Built as a military structure in 1565 by Emperor Akbar with later additions by Shah Jahan, Agra’s Red Fort is an interesting mix of both Hindu and Muslim influences. The fort is entered through Amar Singh Gate with its low outer wall and dogleg design built to confuse attackers, and you can expect to be truly amazed as you walk through courtyard after courtyard of this palatial red-sandstone and marble fortress.

Once inside, you’ll see two large, interlinked sandstone buildings, Akbari Mahal and Jahangiri Mahal, the largest private residence in the complex. Other highlights include the Khas Mahal (Private Palace), with its splendid copper roof, and the Anguri Bagh (Grape Garden), a jigsaw-patterned Mughal garden with numerous wonderful fountains and water channels as well as screens that once offered a private area for the emperor and his entourage. Also of note is the octagonal Musamman Burj tower, which later served as Shah Jahan’s prison until his death.

An eyesore it isn’t, the Mysore Palace is nothing short of spectacular and is in fact a complex of seven palaces.

6. Mysore Palace

The seven palaces that make up the Mysore Palace complex are nothing short of spectacular. The Wodeyars ruled Mysore from 1399 to 1950. The original palace was built of wood in 1399, and was burnt down in 1897, during the wedding of Jayalakshammanni, the eldest daughter of Chamaraja Wodeyar, and was rebuilt in 1912 in Indo-Saracenic style, blending together Hindu, Muslim, Rajput, and Gothic styles of architecture.

It is a three-storied stone structure, with deep pink marble domes and a 145 ft five-storied ivory tower. An imposing sculpture of Gajalakshmi with her elephants sits above the central arch, she is the goddess of wealth, prosperity, good luck, and abundance. The palace is surrounded by a large garden and hosts an annual arts and culture festival.

The Ajanta Caves contain some of the world’s foremost masterpieces of Buddhist religious art – paintings and sculptures some 2000 years old, remarkably preserved.

7. Ajanta Caves

The magnificent Ajanta Caves are rock-cut cave monuments excavated out of a vertical cliff above the left bank of the River Waghora in the hills of Ajanta in the Aurangabad district of India’s Maharashtra state. They are thirty in number, including the unfinished ones, connected with the river by rock-cut staircases. Dating from the 2nd century BCE to about 480 CE, they were abandoned around 650 AD and forgotten until 1819, when a British hunting party stumbled upon them.

Their isolation contributed to the fine state of preservation in which some of their paintings remain to this day. The well-preserved murals depict everything from battlefields to sailing ships, city streets and teeming animal-filled forests to snow-capped mountains. The gateway to the Ajanta Caves and the equally spectacular Ellora Caves, is the city of Aurangabad.

The Golden Temple ‘hovers’ in the middle of the healing waters of the Amrit Sarovar (Holy Pool of Immortal Nectar) of the Harmandir Sahib complex in Amritsar.

8. Harmandir Sahib, Amritsar

The legendary Golden Temple is just a small part of the huge gurdwara complex, known to Sikhs as Harmandir Sahib, the main tourist attraction in Amritsar, and the most important religious place to the Sikhs. Spiritually, the focus of attention is the tank that surrounds the gleaming central shrine – the Amrit Sarovar, from which Amritsar takes its name, excavated by the fourth Sikh guru, Ram Das, in 1577. Bounded by a walkway of marble, the tank is believed to have healing powers, and pilgrims come from all over the globe to bathe in its sacred waters.

Floating at the end of a long causeway, the Golden Temple itself is a mesmerising blend of Hindu and Islamic architectural styles, with an elegant marble lower level adorned with flower and animal motifs. Above this rises a shimmering second level, encased in intricately engraved gold panels, and topped by a dome gilded with more than 1650 pounds of gold. It is without doubt, one of the top 10 sights in India.

The remarkable rock-hewn Kailasa Temple depicts Mt Kailasa,  the Himalayan home of Shiva, the Supreme Being in Shaivism (one of the major traditions within Hinduism).

9. Kailasa Temple

One of India’s greatest monuments, this astonishing temple, carved from solid rock, was built by King Krishna I in AD 760 to represent Mt Kailasa, Shiva’s Himalayan abode. This daring project required the removal of 200,000 tonnes of rock by hammer and chisel before the temple could begin to take shape. Three huge trenches were cut out of the sheer cliff face, and only then could the extraordinary sculptural decoration be added.

Covering an area double the size of the Parthenon in Athens and being half as high again, Kailasa is an engineering marvel that was executed with zero margin for error.

Varanasi’s Manikarnika Ghat on the banks of the Ganges is the principal and most auspicious place for Hindus to be cremated.

10. Manikarnika Ghat, Varanasi

Manikarnika, the main and oldest riverfront burning ghat in Varanasi , is the most auspicious place for a Hindu to be cremated. Mentioned in many ancient scriptures and religious texts, it is said to be the place where Devi Sati set herself on fire and also the birthplace of the fearless queen of Jhansi, Rani Lakshmibai. Temples of many Hindu deities surround the ghat’s periphery while the holy waters of the Ganges flow peacefully alongside.

A holy well, believed to have been dug by Lord Shiva to recover the fallen earring of Goddess Sati, is present at the top of the stairs. Dead bodies are handled by outcasts known as doms and are carried through the alleyways of the old town to the holy Ganges on bamboo stretchers, swathed in cloth. The corpse is doused in the Ganges prior to cremation.

Huge piles of firewood are stacked along the top of the ghat; every log is carefully weighed on giant scales so that the price of cremation can be calculated. Each type of wood has its own price, sandalwood being the most expensive. There is an art to using just enough wood to completely incinerate a corpse.

While Rainforest Cruises aim to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we make no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information herein or found by following any link on this site. Rainforest Cruises cannot and will not accept responsibility for any omissions or inaccuracies, or for any consequences arising therefrom, including any losses, injuries, or damages resulting from the display or use of this information.

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Indian Landmarks: 25 Most Famous Landmarks in India to Visit

Are you looking for places to visit on your next big trip to India? Then here are the most famous landmarks in India that you should tailor your itinerary around .

Being one of the cheapest countries in Asia , India is an ideal country for any traveler.

Known for its diverse culture, rich history, beautiful temples, palaces, ruins of ancient cities, monuments, and architectural gems, there are a number of Indian landmarks that you should not miss on your next visit.

Since you may not have time to explore all the monuments of India, I am sharing with you this comprehensive list of the 25 most famous landmarks in India that you shouldn’t miss visiting.

Psst… Traveling only to the Northern part of the country? Then check out these beautiful places to visit in Northern India and before you go, make sure that you check out these useful India travel tips for a perfect trip. You may also want to know all the things India is famous for .

Famous Landmarks in India

Here are the must-visit landmarks in India.

1. Taj Mahal, Agra

Taj Mahal has to top the list of India landmarks as it is a bucket list destination for millions of travelers.

Located in Agra city, the Taj Mahal is the most famous landmark in India and your trip will be incomplete without visiting it.

Constructed by Emperor Shah Jahan between 1631 and1648 to commemorate and house the tomb of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj Mahal is not only a symbol of India’s rich history but also the unofficial icon of the country attracting millions of tourists from all corners of the world.

The Taj Mahal is not only one of the 7 wonders of the world but has also been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1983.

This Mausoleum built with white marble is a jewel of Muslim art whose striking beauty will leave you in awe.

Besides the architectural beauty, the Taj Mahal also offers some of the best sunrise views.

Looking for more fun things to do in India? You can check out my recommended tours and activities in the widget below all offered by my favorite tour provider, GetYourGuide.

Related post: Top landmarks to visit in Asia

2. Swaminarayan Akshardham, New Delhi

Located near the banks of the Yamuna River in New Delhi is Swaminarayan Akshardham , the world’s largest Hindu temple.

It is a one-stop place to learn about Indian culture and spirituality and admire its magnificent architecture.

Sitting on 12 hectares of land, the temple complex has a museum, a large cultural center, a water canal, and parks, and it’s flooded with shrines and sculptures.

At the temple’s centerpiece, you will find a massive idol of the Lord of Swaminarayan and over 20,000 deities, sages, and displays of traditional and modern Hindu culture.

The outside of the temple is also a beautiful wonder decorated with over 148 statues of elephants and a step-well-styled courtyard.

Though the divine abode of God is a stunning piece of architecture built from intricately carved sandstone and marble and the primal attraction at Swaminarayan Akshardham, there are so many things to do and see at this Indian landmark.

Related post: 25 Best things India is famous for

3. Qutab Minar, New Delhi

Being the second tallest Minar in India after Fateh Burj, Qutab Minar is also the tallest minaret made of bricks in the world and one of the historical monuments of India.

Rising 238ft (73m) tall, this UNESCO World Heritage site was built in 1200AD by Qutb-al-Din-Aibak, the first Muslim ruler after the defeat of the last Hindu kingdom to indicate a power shift.

The Minar features 5 storeys with a base diameter of 15m (43ft) and an apex of 2.5 m (9ft) with each story having a separate projecting balcony. It is one of the ancient surviving Indo-Islamic architecture and attracts more than 3 million visitors a year.

The Minar is surrounded by several historically significant Indian monuments including; ruins, tombs, medieval structures, and madrassa. And at the foot of the Minar is the Quwwat-Ul-Islam which was the first mosque to be built in India.

The highlight of this tower of victory is a 7m (23ft) pure iron pillar that is more than 6 tons and has resisted corrosion for centuries.

There is a popular belief that if you can encircle the iron with your hands while standing with your back to it, your wish will be fulfilled.

Related post: Famous landmarks in China

4. Agra Fort, Agra

Sitting on 380,000 square meters is the beautiful Agra Fort which is one of the famous Indian monuments and a popular tourist spot receiving around 2 million visitors a year.

The construction of this historical fort started in 1565 and was the primary residence of the emperors of the Mughal Dynasty until 1638 when the capital of India shifted from Agra to Delhi.

The fort is more of a walled city with a hidden paradise and exquisite buildings encompassed in 2.5km long and 70ft (21m) high walls.

The crescent-shaped fort has 2 mosques, multiple palaces, and audience halls illustrating the Mughal architecture.

So if you love ancient history, you will love Agra Fort which has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1983 and is now one of the must-visit landmarks of India.

5. Hawa Mahal, Jaipur

Located 300km from India’s capital Delhi, Hawa Mahal is a beautiful palace located in the city of Jaipur. Also known as the Palace of Winds, it is one of the famous Indian landmarks to visit in the city.

It was built from red and pink sandstones with pyramidal shapes resembling Lord Krishna’s crown giving it a unique and beautiful look.

Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh constructed the 5 storey building in 1799 as an extension of the Royal City Palace.

Though its main purpose was to provide an observation place for the royal women to witness the everyday city life and the street festivals without being seen by the public, today, it’s an India landmark that welcomes millions of visitors who want to admire its impeccable beauty and walk into the footsteps of the royals.

Besides the architecture and history, getting to the top of the palace will give you amazing views of the bustling streets of Jaipur, the City Palace, and Jantar Mantar.

6. Red Fort, Delhi (Old Delhi)

Red Fort is one of the most celebrated Indian historical monuments. Located at the heart of old Delhi, it was built by Emperor Shah Jahan from 1639-1648 when India changed its capital from Agra to Delhi.

This magnificent fort was the primary residence of many Mughal emperors, and its beauty and rich heritage make it one of the famous landmarks of India that attracts thousands of travelers to the city.

It was built using red sandstones hence the name Red Fort. Today, it houses museums and serves as a ceremonial ground where India hoists its national flag on Independence Day every year.

It is also surrounded by several big gates and was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007.

7. The Golden Temple, Amritsar

The Golden Temple is an Indian landmark known for its beautiful golden walls.

This beautiful temple in Amritsar is the holiest pilgrimage site for people who follow the Sikh faith.

The temple features 16th-century Hindu and Islamic architecture styles with intricate designs and stunning sparkling golden walls that will leave you in awe.

It is centered on a holy pond known as Amrit Sarovar which makes it appear like it’s floating on water.

The pond has holy water on all sides where devotees take a dip to wash away their sins. This temple is the epitome of harmony, equality, and glory.

So if you are looking for a place to seek spiritual solace and blessings, then visit the Golden Temple to join millions of other devotees from all over the world who come to seek spiritual nourishment and peace.

8. Ajanta & Ellora Caves, Maharashtra

A trip to the Aurangabad region in Maharashtra will leave you impressed by the hand-crafted caves, sculptures, and frescoes representing the ancient rock-cut architecture in the world.

The two caves of Ajanta and Ellora are famous landmarks of India and UNESCO World Heritage sites that attract thousands of curious travelers and historians.

While the Ajanta caves dedicated to the Buddhists have 29 caves and date back to the 2nd century BC and 6th century AD, the Ellora caves date back to the 6th century AD and 11th century AD and are dedicated to Hindus, Buddhists, and Jain.

The most renowned attraction here is Cave 16 at Ellora which houses the Kailasa temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is also the largest monolithic rock-cut temple in the world and also a historical Indian landmark not to miss.

Other notable attractions not to miss here include the life-size elephant sculptures, together with other fine Indian paintings that will make you appreciate India’s historical art even more.

9. Gateway of India, Mumbai

Gateway of India is an Indian historical monument located at the Apex of Apollo Bunder overlooking the Arabian Sea in Mumbai. 

The 26m (85ft) monument was built in 1911 and completed in 1924 to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary to India.

The gateway of India also served as an entry point for British Viceroys when they arrived in India.

Though it was constructed in the 20th century, it has a 16th-century Gujarat architecture with touches of Islamic designs and a resemblance of a triumphal arch that attracts a number of architecture and history buffs.

The place is also a popular spot for locals, travelers, photographers, street vendors, and street food stalls.

Related post: Most beautiful places to visit in India

10. Konark Sun Temple, Konark

On the coastline of Odisha, 35km northeast of Puri, on the bank of River Chandrabhaga is Konark Sun Temple which is one of the famous monuments of India.

Built in the 13th century and dedicated to the Hindu Sun God Surya, this stunning piece of architecture is mind-blowing.

It is designed to resemble a gigantic chariot with 24 wheels led by a team of 6 horses all carved from stone. The temple is also decorated with intricate artwork, symbolic designs, and iconography that illustrates the Kalinga architecture.

Since the temple is dedicated to the sun God, it was perfectly designed such that the first rays of the sun strike at the temple’s entrance every day.

With years of history and impressive architecture, the Konark Sun Temple is a famous landmark in India that should not be missed.

11. Amer Fort, Jaipur

Cradled on top of Aravalli hill, Amer Fort or Amber Fort is one of the most majestic palaces in India.

Located 11km (6.8 mi) from the pink city of Jaipur, it is arguably one of the grandest forts and one of the most famous buildings in India attracting millions of visitors every year.

Built in 1592 by emperor Sing, the fort served as the primary residence of the Rajput rulers. But today, this magnificent palace that was constructed with yellow and pink sandstone offers a visual treat to all its visitors.

It is one of the Indian famous landmarks and an architectural masterpiece that illustrates Rajputana architecture.

Its colorful architectural design with maze-like passages and many meandering staircases makes it a major tourist spot in Jaipur.

The charming complex with exquisite Hindu elements at the peaks is also a must-see sight while exploring the palace.

12. Charminar, Hyderabad

Charminar is one of the most famous monuments in India located in the heart of Hyderabad.

This iconic monument was constructed in 1591 by the fifth ruler of the Qutb Shahi Dynasty, Muhammad Quli Sha.

It is one of the most recognizable and famous structures in India. It has 4 minarets on the 4 corners rising 48.7m (160ft) which symbolize the first 4 khalifas of Islam.

On the top floor of this monument is a mosque that has been in existence for more than 400 years.

This religious and historical Indian landmark is popular for the busy local markets surrounding it, and it’s a site for numerous festival celebrations like Eid-al-Fitr.

It’s that one place you have to visit while in Hyderabad as it’s not only an Indian landmark but also the city’s international symbol.

13. Safdarjung Tomb, New Delhi

Do you love photography and architecture? Then don’t miss visiting Safdarjung Tomb , one of the few Indian monuments built during the Mughal era’s last span highlighting the stunning Mughal architecture.

Built in 1754 for a powerful Mughal emperor who ruled from 1719 -1748, Safdarjung Tomb is a gorgeous marble and sandstone mausoleum with 213 LED lights illuminating the tomb every night from 7.30 pm to 11 pm.

The underground chamber hosts two graves of Safdarjung and his wife, and the compound garden houses 3-dome mosques, fountains, and water canals flowing through the compound.

This beautiful tomb complex is not super crowded making it an ideal spot for people who hate congested tourist areas.

14. Pangong Tso, Ladakh

At an elevation of 4,225m (13,862ft), Pangong Tso is the highest saltwater lake in the world and also one of the most famous natural landmarks in India.

It stretches 134km (83 mi) long and is divided into 5 sub lakes. 40% of the lake is in Ladakh, India, while the other 50% is in Tibet, China , and the 10 % is disputed between the 2 countries.

One of the unusual and impressive things about Pangong Tso is that it keeps changing colors from blue to green or red depending on the time of the day.  

The beauty of this lake is unspeakable and you have to see it for yourself to understand and take in its splendor. You can literally spend hours here and not get enough of the lake.

15. Masrur Temples, Laharpur

 Also known as Himalayan pyramids, the Masrur Temples are a cluster of 15 rock-cut temples built in the 8th and 9th centuries.

The temples have three entrances; the northwest, southeast, and northwest, where two entrances are incomplete.

The temples feature reliefs, and idols of Lord Rama, Lord Lakhsnana, and Goddess Sita. The temples are also spiritually significant and a key archeological site that attracts millions of visitors from all corners of the world.

However, the temples were ruined by earthquakes, and the temple ruins complex left remains an extraordinary marvel that proves human creativity.

16. Dzuko Valley, Manipur

If you’re a nature lover, then Dzuko Valley should top your list of landmarks in India to visit.

Located along the border of Manipur and Nagaland, there is no other place like this in India. It is one of the most beautiful places in the country, and it’s known for its lush rolling hills covered with dwarf bamboo.

Also known as the Valley of Flowers, it is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Northeast India. It has a wide range of flowers, including the Dzuko lily with a deep shade of pink only found in this valley.

The best time to visit the valley is in full bloom season between June and September when you’ll enjoy the sight of the bright white and pink lilies adorning the valley.

The area is great for trekking, hiking , or just exploring and appreciating nature in its pristine condition.

17. India Gate, New Delhi

Built from 1921 to 1931, India Gate in New Delhi is one of the historical monuments in India.

It is a memorial archway made of sandstone built to pay tribute to the brave soldiers who fought for the country.

A well-maintained lawn surrounds the 42m (138ft) structure and it’s a popular picnic spot among travelers and locals.

The structure has inscriptions of the names of over 70,000 soldiers killed in World War I and the soldiers martyred during the Afghan war of 1919.

On top of that, the base of the structure houses 4 eternal flames to pay tribute to the fallen soldiers.

18. Meenakshi Amman Temple, Madurai

Meenakshi Amman Temple is a historic Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Lord Shiva. It is a major tourist spot and the epitome of classic architecture that will take your breath away.

Located on the southern bank of the Vaigai River, this iconic temple has mesmerizing murals all around making it a must-visit attraction to witness its splendor.

The temple is home to a hall that has a thousand pillars, 33,000 sculptures, and a sacred pool where you can do a ritual bath. Other attractions at Meenakshi Amman Temple include; shrines, elephant sheds, gardens, and a wedding hall.

Different types of festivals are also held here throughout the year with the main festival, Chithirai Thiruvizha happening in April and attracting millions of visitors.

So if you want to experience the festivity and culture while learning about the history of Meenakshi Amman Temple, then April is the best time to visit this famous Indian landmark.

19. City Palace, Jaipur

City Palace is a famous tourist attraction in Jaipur and there is no way you can avoid it when in the city as it’s located right in the heart of the pink city.

Built from 1739-1732 by Sawai Jai Singh II, the palace illustrates a striking blend of Rajput, Mughal, and European styles.

The palace not only features a Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II museum that exhibits clothes worn by the royals, gardens, holy shrines, pavilions, halls, palaces, and gateways but also continues to be the home of the Jaipur royal family.

There is so much to see and explore here which portrays the richness and royalty of Indian history.

20. Mysore Palace, Mysore

Also known as Mysuru Palace, Mysore Palace is the most famous landmark in India after the Taj Mahal.

Initially, the palace was made of wood which was later destroyed by fire in 1897. It was later rebuilt in 1912 to the 3 storey structure we see today.

It is a combination of Hindu, Gothic, Muslim, and Rajput architectural styles giving it a unique look.

The palace was the official residence of the royal family of Mysore, who ruled from 1399 to 1950.

It was later made into a museum and houses royal souvenirs, jewelry, paintings, and costumes.

The best time to visit the place is at night to watch the illuminated lights covering the structure giving it a stunning look.

21. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, Mumbai

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus , commonly known as CSMT, is an iconic railway station situated in the bustling city of Mumbai.

Built in 1878 during the British Colonial era, it was originally named Victoria Terminus in honor of Queen Victoria. It was later renamed to honor the Maratha warrior king, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

Designed by British architect Frederick William Stevens, the structure is an exceptional blend of Gothic and Indian architectural styles.

Its intricate designs and the grand façade make it one of the standout landmarks not just in Mumbai, but in India as a whole.

Functioning as both a long-distance and local train station, it serves as a crucial hub connecting various parts of India.

The terminus is so significant that it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004, so it’s no surprise that it also made it to this list of India’s famous landmarks.

The station is a hive of activity, with thousands of commuters passing through daily. In fact, it holds the distinction of being one of the busiest railway stations in the country.

22. Jaisalmer Fort, Jaisalmer

Located in the Thar Desert of Rajasthan, Jaisalmer Fort is one of the largest fully preserved fortified cities in the world.

Constructed in 1156 AD by the Rajput ruler Rawal Jaisal, from whom the city derives its name, the fort stands majestically on a hill overlooking the entire city below.

Built primarily from yellow sandstone, the fort is often referred to as the Golden Fort because its walls take on a honey-gold color at sunset making it blend seamlessly with the desert sands.

Its unique appearance and historical significance earn it a spot as one of the important landmarks of India.

The fort is also considered a living monument with about a quarter of Jaisalmer’s population still residing within its walls.

It’s a bustling center full of shops, hotels, and ancient havelis (grand mansions) that boast intricate architecture and designs. These havelis showcase the artistic skills of the local craftsmen, featuring elaborate façades and ornamental latticework.

Moreover, the fort houses Jain temples dating back to the 12th century, known for their stunning sculptures and detailed carvings.

It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013 and is a must-visit on any trip to India.

23. Mahabodhi Temple, Bodh Gaya

The Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya holds an unparalleled significance in the history and spirituality of India.

Located in the state of Bihar, this temple complex is the very site where Siddhartha Gautama, who later became Buddha is believed to have attained enlightenment.

The temple was originally built by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE and later renovated in the 5th and 6th centuries CE.

The central structure of the Mahabodhi Temple stands 55 meters ((180 feet) tall and is made of brick, a rarity among surviving ancient Buddhist monuments.

Intricately carved and adorned, the temple is an architectural marvel that pays tribute to India’s traditional artistry.

One of the most famous landmarks of India, the temple complex is anchored by the Bodhi Tree, a direct descendant of the original tree under which Buddha meditated.

Devotees and visitors from around the world come to sit under this tree seeking the same spiritual peace that Buddha found here! And, the temple also holds various meditation events throughout the year.

In 2002, the Mahabodhi Temple was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, further affirming its importance as a religious and historical landmark in India.

24. Humayun’s Tomb, Delhi

Nest on our list of important landmarks in India is Humayun’s Tomb .

Built between 1565 and 1572, the tomb was commissioned by Humayun’s first wife, Empress Bega Begum, as an eternal resting place for the second Mughal Emperor.

Architecturally, the tomb served as a prototype for future Mughal structures, most notably the Taj Mahal.

Constructed mainly out of red sandstone and marble, the tomb is an architectural marvel with intricate carvings and a well-planned garden layout, known as a Charbagh which is divided into four main squares by pathways and water channels.

Each square is then subdivided into smaller ones creating a stunning geometric pattern when viewed from above.

Humayun’s Tomb holds the distinction of being the first Indian building to use the Persian double dome, an architectural element that later became significant in the Mughal style.

The complex is also home to several smaller monuments and tombs, including the tomb of Humayun’s wife.

In 1993, the tomb was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it has since attracted visitors from all corners of the world, making it one of India’s landmarks worth seeing.

25. Lotus Temple, Delhi

The Lotus Temple in Delhi is a marvel of modern architecture and a testament to India’s religious diversity.

Designed by Iranian architect Fariborz Sahba and completed in 1986, this Bahá’í House of Worship draws inspiration from the shape of a lotus flower, symbolizing purity and peace.

Comprising 27 free-standing marble “petals,” the temple is an architectural feat that has won numerous awards.

Although relatively new compared to other landmarks, the Lotus Temple has rapidly gained recognition as one of the famous India landmarks.

The temple is surrounded by nine ponds and lush gardens, enhancing its aesthetic appeal and making it a favorite spot for both tourists and locals alike.

Over the years, the Lotus Temple has not only become a significant spiritual center but also a symbol of unity in diversity, something that resonates well with India’s multicultural fabric.

In fact, in 2001, the temple was acknowledged with the GlobArt Academy award in Vienna for its promotion of unity and harmony.

Final Thoughts on the Famous Landmarks in India

India is a country blessed with history, culture, impressive architecture, and a number of monuments that it can be hard to visit all of them in one visit.

So I hope that this post has helped you narrow down the Indian landmarks you shouldn’t miss while in the country.

Have you been to any of these famous landmarks of India? Which one of them was your favorite?

And if reading this post has inspired you to visit India, which one of these Indian monuments are you most excited to see? Let me know in the comments below!

Need more inspiration? Check out these landmarks below

• Famous landmarks in Europe
• Must-visit landmarks in Africa
• Famous landmarks in China
• Landmarks in Egypt you must visit
• Famous landmarks to visit in France
• The most important landmarks in Asia

Was this post on India’s famous landmarks helpful? Then please consider sharing it with others

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Tourist Attractions in India

Encircled by a spiritual aura, soaked in the colours of festivities and culture, and adorned with a diverse landscape, India is no ordinary land. By and large, a tourist destination that is festooned by the paradisiacal Jammu & Kashmir in the North, culturally rich Tamil Nadu in the South, sacred Gujarat in the West, and the breathtaking Arunachal Pradesh in the East, the country is rightly called incredible India. A travel experience in India is unlike any as this world's seventh largest country has a lot in store for the traveller of every kind. The list of top tourist attractions in India is expansive. Needless to say that each cardinal direction has numerous well-known tourist destinations, and thus no matter where you plan your holiday in the country, your experience is guaranteed to be an impeccable one.

In North India, architecturally rich, Rajasthan; vivacious Punjab; diverse Uttar Pradesh; picturesque J&K, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand with their attractions like City Palace, Golden Temple, Taj Mahal, GHNP, and Badrinath along with plenty others welcome tourists from across the world. The royal state of Rajasthan is adorned with numerous palaces, forts, and cenotaphs in its top tourist destinations like Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Kumbhalgarh and more. On the other hand, region's second largest state, Uttar Pradesh is a reflection of varied cultures and is home to a number of religious sites like Varanasi, Ayodhya, Allahabad, Sarnath and many others. However Uttar Pradesh isn't the only destination in North India with pilgrimage sites, the neighbouring Uttarakhand (earlier the part of the state), is replete with Hindu holy sites like Badrinath, Kedarnath, Haridwar, and Rishikesh. The state also boasts spectacular natural beauty with the sight of Greater Himalayas and peak likes Nanda Devi. The adjacent Himachal Pradesh gives Uttarakhand a good run for the money when it comes to scenic places. Himachal is blessed with a gorgeous landscape that of Lahaul & Spiti and tourist destinations like Dharamshala, Dalhousie, Manali, Palampur, Shimla and many more. Haryana and Punjab too have some interesting places to visit including Chandigarh, Kurukshetra, and Amritsar, where the famous Sikh pilgrimage Golden Temple is situated. The northernmost Jammu & Kashmir is indeed the crown of the country with jewels like Srinagar, Pahalgam, Leh, Pangong Tso, Gulmarg, Vaishno Devi and several other surreal destinations to visit.

• Alchi, Ladakh
• Almora, Uttarakhand
• Amarnath, J & K
• Amritsar, Punjab
• Auli, Uttarakhand
• Badrinath, Uttarakhand
• Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary
• Bhimtal, Uttarakhand
• Bundi, Rajasthan
• Bikaner, Rajasthan
• Bodhgaya, Bihar
• Chittorgarh, Rajasthan
• Damdama Lake
• Deeg Fort, Rajasthan
• Dungarpur, Rajasthan
• Gangotri, Uttarakhand
• Garhwal, Uttarakhand
• Gaya, Bihar
• Haridwar, Uttarakhand
• Hazaribagh National Park
• Hemkund, Uttarakhand
• Jaisalmer, Rajasthan
• Kurukshetra, Haryana
• Khimsar, Rajasthan
• Kota, Rajasthan
• Kumbhalgarh, Rajasthan
• Nalanda, Bihar
• Nawalgarh, Rajathan
• Patna, Bihar
• Pushkar Fair, Rajasthan
• Rajgir, Bihar
• Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
• Ranakpur, Rajasthan
• Samode Palace, Rajasthan
• Sariska National Park
• Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh
• Sravasti, Uttar Pradesh
• Srinagar, J & K
• Udaipur, Rajasthan
• Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand
• Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh
• Vaishali, Bihar
• Vaishno Devi, J & K
• Valley of Flowers, Uttarakhand
• Yamunotri, Uttarakhand
• Zanskar, J & K
• Gulmarg, Kashmir
• Kargil, Jammu & Kashmir
• Mandawa, Rajasthan
• Pahalgam, Kashmir
• (Culture & Heritage) Rajasthan
• Dudhwa Tiger Reserve
• Nanda Devi Park
• Palampur, Himachal Pradesh
• Shivpuri National Park
• Surajkund, Haryana
• Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
• Sultanpur National Park
• Dachigam National Park
• Palamau National Park
• Ranthambore Tiger Reserve

In South India, a travel experience of cultural heritage is promised. States like Tamil Nadu, which is also the topmost destination of India tourism; Kerala; Andhra Pradesh; Karnataka, Pondicherry, Andaman & Nicobar Island, Lakshadweep, and Telangana offer an unparalleled experience of exploring some imposing temples like Tirupati Balaji; beautiful beaches such Radhanagar; surreal backwaters in Alappuzha; and the southernmost tip of India, Kanyakumari. South India boasts being the ally of the ocean and the sea and has some incredible beaches like Kovalam in Kerala, Gokarna in Karnataka, Paradise Beach in Tamil Nadu, and Kavaratti in Lakshadweep. The southern states are architecturally rich and have a flavoursome blend on display ranging from Dravidian to Portuguese and Dutch architecture. Mysore, Bidar, Mahabalipuram, Hampi are some of the must-visit places in South India. Home to Western and Eastern Ghats, South India is a safe shelter for rich wildlife and some rare species. Periyar National Park, Bandipur, Nagarhole and their likes make for some important tourist attractions in South India. It is needless to say there is no dearth of temples and pilgrimage places in this part of the country. Rameswaram, one of the four prime pilgrimage destinations in India is in south Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Also, Velankanni, an important Christian religious site in Tamil Nadu as well. Country's richest temple Tirupati Balaji also blesses South India with its presence so does the Sabarimala Temple and the Gommateshwara Statue.

• Alappuzha, Backwaters
• Bandipur National Park
• Bangalore, Karnataka
• Bidar, Karnataka
• Bijapur, Karnataka
• Kerala Backwaters
• Marina Beach, Chennai
• Gulbarga, Karnataka
• Hampi, Karnataka
• Hassan, Karnataka
• Hospet, Karnataka
• Kanchi, Kerala
• Kanchipuram, Tamilnadu
• Kanyakumari
• Karera Bird Sanctuary
• Kayamkulam, Kerala
• Ketti, Kerala
• Kottayam, Kerala
• Kovalam, Kerala
• Kumarakom, Kerala
• Mahabalipuram, Tamilnadu
• Madurai, Tamilnadu
• Mysore, Karnataka
• Nagarhole National Park
• Nagarjuna Sagar, Andhra Pradesh
• Pattadakal, Karnataka
• Puttaparthi, Andhra Pradesh
• Kollam, Kerala
• Rameshwaram, Tamil nadu
• Srirangapatnam, Karnataka
• Thanjavur, Tamilnadu
• Trivandrum, Kerala
• Tiruchirappalli, Tamilnadu
• Tirupati, Tamilnadu
• Badami, Karnataka
• Belgaum, Karnataka
• Madikeri, Coorg
• Ayurvedic Health, Kairali
• Simlipal National Park
• Silent Valley National Park
• Wandur National Park
• Natraja Temple, Chidambaram
• Periyar National Park
• Eravikulam National Park

The East and Northeast India is a repository of unsurpassed places. The eastern state of Bihar is an important Buddhist pilgrimage site while Odisha is home to Lord Jagannath. This part of the country also flaunts opulent culture and history. A large contribution in this realm is made by West Bengal, the connoisseur of literature and art. Kolkata, Bishnupur, Malda make some of the important places for cultural and history aficionados in West Bengal. Northeast India, on the other hand, overwhelms tourists with varied cultures, traditions, and beautiful places to see. Where Sikkim is home to one of the world's highest mountains, Kanchenjunga, Assam is the land of One-horned Rhinos (Kaziranga and Manas National Park) and the biggest river island in the world. This part of India has a rich tribal culture which can be best witnessed in Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, and Meghalaya. The states like Manipur, Mizoram, Tripura too have plenty of tribes, gorgeous landscape, and a number of places to see.

• Bhubaneshwar, Odisha
• Bomdila, Arunachal Pradesh
• Kaziranga National Park
• Manas Tiger Reserve
• Mirik, West Bengal
• Puri, Odisha
• Sunderbans National Park
• Konark Sun Temple, Odisha
• Diamond Harbour, Hooghly River
• Gopalpur Beach, Odisha
• Kolkata (Calcutta)
• Gangtok, Sikkim
• Guwahati, Assam
• Bhitarkanika Park

The Arabian Sea is your companion in West India with Sahyadri being the other gorgeous sight to behold. This part of the country offers cultural diversity, religious fervour, and surreal beachscape to plan a holiday. Where in Gujarat, destinations like Somnath and Dwarka offer best religious tours, in Maharashtra, one has the opportunity to worship Lord Ganesha and Sai Baba in Mumbai and Shirdi. Goa and the union territory Daman & Diu invite you for the best beach holiday. The other union territory, Dadra & Nagar Haveli offers a glimpse of architecturally rich India with stunning sites in its capital Silvassa. West India is also home to two types of big cats - Royal Bengal Tiger and Asiatic Lions. While the Tigers can be seen in many of the sanctuaries and reserves like Tadoba National Park, Asiatic Lions in large numbers can only be seen in Gir National Park.

• Ahmedpur Mandvi, Beach
• Anjuna Beach
• Alangute Beach
• Candolim Beach
• Covelong Beach
• Daman & Diu
• Dona Paula Beach
• Dwarka, Gujarat
• Gondal, Gujarat
• Junagarh, Gujarat
• Kutch, Gujarat
• Lothal, Gujarat
• Modhera, Gujarat
• Palitana, Gujarat
• Patan, Gujarat
• Sanjay Gandhi National Park
• Sasangir Lion Sanctuary
• Shirdi, Maharashtra
• Somnath, Gujarat
• Varkala Beach
• Wild Ass Sanctuary

Central India too adds a commendable charm to the landscape, historical, and wildlife heritage of the country. From being home to the national parks like Bandhavgarh and Pench to rich culture and history of both the states of Madhya Pradesh and Chhatisgarh, central India is an unmissable tourist destination. There's almost no one who would enjoy their time in this part of India as it is blessed with such diverse attractions that can please a traveller of any kind. The fort of Gwalior, the temple groups of Khajuraho, the quaint and imposing Orchha, the majestic Chitrakoot Waterfall, and the opulent tribal culture, all make Central India the apt reflection of diverse and impressive India.

• Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh
• Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh
• Panna National Park
• Chitrakoot, Madhya Pradesh
• Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh
• Maheshwar, Madhya Pradesh
• Omkareshwar, Madhya Pradesh
• Pachmarhi, Madhya Pradesh
• Amarkantak, Madhya Pradesh
• Bhedaghat, Madhya Pradesh
• Shivpuri, Madhya Pradesh
• Chanderi, Madhya Pradesh
• Mandu, Madhya Pradesh
• Indore, Madhya Pradesh
• Dhar, Madhya Pradesh
• Vidisha, Madhya Pradesh
• Orchha, Madhya Pradesh
• Sanchi, Madhya Pradesh
• Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh

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8 Famous Tourist Attractions in India You Have to Experience

Looking for the top tourist attractions in India? Whether you’re currently planning your trip or considering if India is a destination for you, you’ve come to the right place! This list covers the top tourist attractions in India, what makes them special, and the best time to visit each one, so you can choose an experience that is perfect for you!

India is a vast and diverse country with so much to offer! It’s no question why millions of travelers are drawn in each year, and there are many tourist attractions in India to choose from when planning a trip.

India is full of architecture wonders like the Taj Mahal, majestic palaces, and ancient temples. You can find stunning clearwater beaches or embrace the tranquility of the Himalaya mountains. The country is truly huge and it’s so culturally diverse that even traveling between one state to the next will make you feel like you’re in a new place.

These top tourist attractions in India also highlight the rich history and diversity of the country. I have lived in India for over 6 years and it’s where my husband is from. While we have traveled all over the country (and it’s very difficult to limit this list to just 8), these are the top places for travelers to experience India.

This post is all about the top tourist attractions in India.

8 Famous Tourist Attractions in India

#1 red fort, delhi.

The Red Fort is an iconic landmark in Delhi and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s a massive fort built in the 1600’s by the Mughals and was made out of red sandstone, hence the name. The architecture is also beautiful and shows the style of that time. It’s a huge space for tourists to explore and soak in the history!

The Red Fort is surrounded by massive walls and inside there are palaces, museums and halls to look through. There are often major events and festivals held there which is significant because it’s located in Delhi, the capital of India.

Aside from the Red Fort, many other famous tourist attractions in India are also located in Delhi. After visiting the Red Fort, be sure to see other sites like the India Gate, Humayun’s Tomb and the Lotus Temple.

Where: New Delhi, Capital of India (North India)

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit the Red Fort and Delhi is between October and March. The winter months are cooler and pleasant for travelers. However, air pollution is a serious problem in Delhi and is the worst between November – February. At times, it can be extreme and limit visibility so it’s important to consider especially if you have asthma or other health issues.

Try to avoid traveling between April and June because it is extremely hot and makes outdoor sight-seeing less enjoyable. Monsoon is between July and September which helps cool down temperatures, but just be prepared to experience rain if you travel then.

#2 Taj Mahal, Agra

The Taj Mahal is probably the most famous of all tourist attractions in India! One of the Seven Wonders of the World, it is a breathtaking structure made of white marble and surrounded by beautiful gardens. The Taj Mahal was built in the 1600’s and is filled with intricate carvings and beautiful domes that highlight the style of the Mughal empire.

You can walk around the gardens, check out a small museum, and most importantly, explore inside the Taj Mahal! It’s the perfect place to watch the sunrise or sunset and gives tourists a sense of the history, culture and romance of the time.

Where: Agra, Uttar Pradesh (North India)

Best Time to Visit: October through March is the best time to visit the Taj Mahal because the weather is relatively cooler in the winter so it’s pleasant to be outside. 

You should avoid seeing the Taj Mahal between April through June if possible because it will be extremely hot. Monsoon season is July through September, so it’s a bit cooler but you’ll just have to be prepared for rain if you go during this time.

#3 Jantar Mantar, Jaipur

Jaipur is home to many of the famous tourist attractions in India! It’s also known as the “Pink City” and is full of stunning palaces, forts, bazaars, and historical monuments. Other popular things to do in Jaipur include visiting Amer Fort and Palace and Hawa Mahal.

The Jantar Mantar is an astronomical observatory built in the 1700s and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It houses 19 different instruments including giant sundials and complex geometric devices that were used to measure time, predict eclipses, track stars, and more. This extraordinary area showcases the science at the time and is an architectural marvel!

Where: Jaipur, Rajasthan (North India)

Best Time to Visit: October to March is the most popular time to travel when the weather is cool. July to September is monsoon season so it’s not super hot, but be prepared for rain.

Avoid traveling between April and June if possible because it is summer and extremely hot.

“The Golden Triangle” – A famous route to see the major tourist attractions in India

The Golden Triangle is a very popular path travelers take that includes stops in Agra, Delhi and Jaipur. I’d recommend taking at least 2 weeks to do this. The very minimum would be 1.5 weeks otherwise it’s just way too rushed.

#4 Ganges River, Varanasi

The Ganges River is considered one of the holiest rivers in India and many Hindus believe that taking a dip in the water will cleanse your sins and purify your soul. Varanasi is a famous city along the river which is rich in spirituality and ancient traditions. The city is full of bustling narrow alleyways, temples, and ghats along the river.

Travelers can experience a Ganga Aarati, daily ceremonies and prayers offered to the Ganga. You can also take a boat ride along the river to see the city from a new perspective. Of course, you can also go into the water and experience it for yourself. 

For foreigners, the city is also famous because there are outdoor cremations where bodies are burnt and their ashes are given to the Ganga, which is a very revered practice for religious believers.

Where: Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh (North India)

Best Time to Visit: October – March is the best time to visit Varanasi because the weather is relatively cool.

Monsoon season is July – September, so expect rain when you travel. Avoid going in the summer months between April – June because it’s very hot.

#5 Golden Temple, Amritsar

The Golden Temple is in Amritsar, Punjab and is one of the most famous religious sites in India. The temple also runs the world’s largest free kitchen which serves thousands of people from all backgrounds.

The Golden Temple is a Sikh temple but welcomes people of all faiths and backgrounds. As the name suggests, it’s golden and a truly beautiful place to see. The temple is built on a pool of water and is a great area to sit and soak in the scenes.

Amritsar is a city located on the border of Pakistan, so there is fascinating history to learn about this area. Travelers also watch the daily border ceremonies at the Wagah border which divides the countries and visit the Partition Museum.

Where: Amritsar, Punjab (North India)

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Amritsar is between September to March. The weather is cool which is great for sight-seeing. It can get chilly in the winter months like December and January (for example, between 40s-60s Fahrenheit).

August and July are the heaviest monsoon months, so expect rain. April to June is the summer so temperatures can be quite warm for travelers (80s-90 F).

#6 Backwaters of Kerala, Kochi

For travelers looking for tourist attractions in India that are more in touch with nature, the backwaters of Kerala are a famous destination. There are many places to experience the backwaters, but many choose to go to the small city of Kochi. 

The backwaters are 900 km of waterways, lakes and lagoons along the southern coast of India. It’s a serene and lush atmosphere with amazing scenes of biodiversity. You can explore the waterways on traditional wooden houseboats and also see glimpses of the picturesque rural life while going through the waters. 

You can take small day trips or go for several nights around the backwaters. It’s really beautiful and Kerala is famous for its breathtaking nature!

Where: Kochi, Kerala (Southeast coast)

Best Time to Visit: Winter is the best time to explore the backwaters of Kerala because the weather is ideal. The temperature ranges between 70s-90s Fahrenheit between October to March.

July to September is monsoon season which makes the greenery even more lush. But, the area gets a lot of rainfall which sometimes makes it not possible to travel through the backwaters.

Summer is between April and June and is super hot (think 90s-100) so it makes outdoor activities less enjoyable.

#7 McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala

McLeod Ganj is home to some unique tourist attractions in India. It is an area on the outskirts of Dharamshala, which is a small city in the Himalayas and popular tourist destination for travelers looking to enjoy the mountains.

McLeod Ganj is famous because of its Tibetan population. It’s where the Dalai Lama lives and is a major center for Tibetan Buddhism and culture. Travelers can visit the Namgyal Monastery and Tsuglagkhang Complex which houses the Dalai Lama’s temple and the Tibet Museum.

Along with shopping for Tibetan handicrafts or enjoying the food, many travelers also participate in meditation and yoga sessions. Dharamshala is also perfect for hiking enthusiasts and is full of amazing trails and scenic spots, like Bhagsu Waterfall.

Where: Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh (North India, on the edge of the Himalayas)

Best Time to Visit: Dharamshala is pleasant many months of the year and will depend on what kind of weather you prefer. March – June is peak season because it is spring/summer and the weather is perfect for outdoor activities.

Monsoon is from July to August/mid-Spetember, so travelers should expect rain. October – November is also pleasant weather but it begins to get colder. The winter months from December – February are quite cold for outdoor activities, with average temperatures ranging in the 40s-low 50s Fahrenheit.

#8 Beaches: Goa and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands

India is full of stunning beaches that draw in thousands of travelers each year! Two popular tourist destinations to enjoy the beach includes Goa and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands

Goa offers a laid-back, chilled-out type of beach vibe along the coast of the Arabian Sea. It is quite cheap and offers a wide range of activities for travelers. While they’re not clear-water beaches, this area is the most popular beach destination for people on the mainland of India and you will find many other foreigners here.

Goa is a state filled with many beaches. You can read more about some of the best beaches in Goa to plan for your trip. Many travelers would choose Goa if they are combining a trip to other areas in India, such as Mumbai or Kerala.

Andaman and Nicobar Islands

These islands make up a union territory and they are famous for their stunning clear-water beaches. You could think of it as a more affordable version of the Maldives! This is the perfect place to see coral reefs by snorkeling or scuba diving. 

Havelock Island and Neil Island are two of the top areas for travelers to stay. Aside from a relaxing vacation on the beach, there are also some beautiful places for hiking and enjoying the outdoors. 

Traveling to these islands requires more time than Goa because you will have to fly into the capital city, Port Plair, and take boats from there to the other islands. It’s also relatively more expensive than Goa, but the beaches are spectacular!

Where: Goa is on the western coast of India. Andaman and Nicobar Islands are a group of small islands between the Andaman Sea and Bay of Bengal. It’s quite a distance from the coast of India, towards Thailand.

Best Time to Visit: Similar to many other places in the country, Goa and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands have peak seasons in the winter months from November – February where the weather is warm but pleasant for beach activities.

The weather starts to get much warmer from March, and expect a lot of heat if you travel between April and May.

It’s not advised to travel during Monsoon season which is June – September. Since these are beach destinations, many attractions won’t be open. Expect rain every day and sun will be limited!

And so many more tourist attractions in India!

It’s impossible to make a limited list of tourist attractions in India, but the ones mentioned above are the most popular for travelers. The country is very diverse and huge, so it will depend on the type of vacation you are looking for and what kind of experience you want.Some other top attractions and places to mention include Kashmir, Le Ledakh, Mumbai, Darjeeling, Manali, Mumbai, and Hampi. You can get more ideas for the best places to travel in India by checking out this state-by-state guide!

This post was all about tourist attractions in India.

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India's most instagrammed tourist attractions - in pictures

1. The Gateway of India in Mumbai is the country's most Instagrammable destination. EPA

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India and beyond

India's Most 'Instagrammable' Tourist Spots

Image: Unsplash

15 April 2024

Instagram has seen a phenomenal growth in its user base in recent years. in india too, the platform has become creators' favourite.

Image:  Unsplash

Out of its 2 billion accounts globally, about 500 million are in India, as per Forbes. This is also given a boost to tourism

Now, mumbai-based travel firm india someday has released a list of top 'instagrammable' tourist destinations in india, the list is based on hashtags per acre, which has been calculated by dividing the total hashtags by the area in acres of each attraction, gateway of india is on top with 700,000 hashtags per acre on social media platform, followed by delhi's jama masjid with 359,000 hashtags per acre, hawa mahal in pink city jaipur is at number 3, receiving 261,326 hashtags per acre. another of city's attraction, patrika gate, patrika got 186,667 hashtags per acre, golden temple is at number 5 with 75,000 hashtags per acre. the site is famous for its gold-plated exterior and the surrounding amrit sarovar lake, taj mahal, situated in agra, is ranked sixth with 61,905 hashtags per acre. crafted in white marble, it attracts millions of visitors each year, city palace in udaipur has amassed 50,600 hashtags per acre, settling in at number 7, followed by nahargarh fort, qutab minar is at number 9 with 27,151 hashtags per acre. this towering minaret is a unesco world heritage site, sanchi stupa completes the top 10 amassing 23,857 hashtags per acre. located in madhya pradesh, the ancient buddhist complex is famous for its great stupa, check more stories.

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To accommodate this influx, the temple complex is set to feature one of the largest parking facilities, multi-level parking capable of accommodating up to 3,000 cars concurrently.

To accommodate this influx, the temple complex is set to feature one of the largest parking facilities, multi-level parking capable of accommodating up to 3,000 cars concurrently. Read less

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Agoda to Promote Tourism in Goa Under New Deal – India Report

Bulbul Dhawan , Skift

April 8th, 2024 at 11:00 PM EDT

Goa is seeking to reinvent itself as a year-round destination. Its partnership first with MakeMyTrip and now Agoda is a step towards being known for more than just its beaches.

Bulbul Dhawan

The Skift India Newsletter is your go-to platform for all news related to travel, tourism, airlines, and hospitality in India.

Online travel platform Agoda has signed an agreement with Goa Tourism to promote the coastal state. The collaboration aims to highlight various experiences that the state can offer to different travelers. 

As part of the partnership, Agoda will be creating custom pages and travel guides that would highlight Goa and its hidden gems. It will also be using its social media platforms for the promotion of the destination. 

Goa beyond beaches: In February this year, the government of Goa partnered with online travel agency MakeMyTrip . As part of the agreement, MakeMyTrip will focus on the inland offerings of the state, promoting it as a year-round destination. 

Goa has been focusing on promoting itself beyond its beaches as part of its regenerative tourism initiative and ‘Goa Beyond Beaches’ vision. 

Ooty Most-Searched Leisure Destination for Domestic Summer Travel

Travel insights by online booking platform Booking.com has revealed that Ooty is the most-searched domestic leisure destination this year among Indian travelers. Booking.com Travel Predictions 2024 have revealed that 57% of the Indian travelers are looking to undertake long domestic trips between April 15 and July 15 this year. 

Dubai continues to be the most-favored international destination for summer, followed by Singapore, London, Paris, and Bangkok. 

Santosh Kumar, country manager for India, Sri Lanka, Maldives and Indonesia at Booking.com said that there has been a significant change in the way Indians are approaching summer travel in recent years. “While Indians are exploring both domestic and overseas destinations, we are seeing travelers gravitating towards culturally significant or leisure-oriented destinations with a growing desire for immersive experiences,” he added. 

IndiGo Announces Three Routes in Kerala, Lakshadweep

Budget airline IndiGo has announced three new routes that are set to be operational from May this year. The new routes will connect Kozhikode with Kochi in Kerala; Kochi in Kerala with Agatti in the Lakshadweep archipelago; and Kozhikode with Agatti via Kochi, the airline has said. 

Agatti is the latest destination to be added in IndiGo’s network, after the carrier began operating daily flights there from Bengaluru on March 31 . Vinay Malhotra, head of global sales, IndiGo, said that these new flights would contribute to travel, tourism, and trade in the region. 

The airline’s move is in line with the government of India’s push to tourism in Lakshadweep recently.

Jayaraj Shanmugam Appointed Head of Global Airport Operations at Air India

Air India has appointed Jayaraj Shanmugam as its head of global airport operations, and the appointment is set to come into effect on April 15. Shanmugam is set to join the carrier from Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL), where he is the Chief Operating Officer. 

He has previously worked with airlines such as Singapore Airlines, Qatar Airways, and Jet Airways. At Air India, he will oversee the airline’s airport operations worldwide and ensure coordination and efficiency to make the passenger journey smooth. 

RCI Launches First-Ever Cruise Exchange Program in India

Timeshare exchange company RCI has launched its first-ever cruise exchange program in India on the occasion of its 50th anniversary. The program will allow members to use their timeshare ownerships in order to access discounted rates on cruise bookings worldwide. 

As part of the program, active members of RCI would be able to book from a range of cruise options, including different destinations, cruise lengths, and cabin categories, RCI said in a statement. 

Air India Express Launches Bag Track and Protect Services

Air India Express has launched ‘Bag Track and Protect’ services that would let passengers track their baggage. The services have been launched in partnership with Blue Ribbon Bag and would need to be pre-booked by passengers as add-ons. 

This service would also facilitate expedited return of delayed baggage and allow passengers to get compensation in case of delayed baggage not being delivered within 96 hours of landing at the destination. 

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Photo credit: Goa has been a popular Indian destination for a long time, known mostly for its beaches. Incredible India website

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