online tourism websites

The best virtual tours to explore the world from home

Oct 8, 2020 • 5 min read

The Sistine Chapel is just one wonder offering a virtual museum tour ©Rajesh Gathwala/500px

We live in an age of unprecedented access to digital technology – and with it, brand new ways of exploring the world around us.

While it's not quite the same as seeing, say, the Mona Lisa or Christ the Redeemer in person, some of the world’s most popular and remote destinations have created libraries of online images and video, as well as 360 degree virtual tours that let you virtually explore museums, galleries, world wonders and even national parks.

Here a just a few of the best digital tours that let you wander the world from wherever you may be social distancing.

See the seven wonders of the world

If there’s anything capable of whetting your appetite for world travel, it is the new seven wonders of the world:  the Great Wall of China , the ancient city of Petra , the Taj Mahal , the Colosseum , Machu Picchu , Christ the Redeemer , and Chichen Itza . Thankfully there are impressive virtual tours of each from The New York Times , AirPano , Google , and Panoramas .

With modern technology, you can even see the last standing wonder of the ancient world— The Pyramids of Giza . There are a few other wonders that might not make it into to the top seven but are still worth a digital peek, like the Alhambra , Seville's La Giralda , and even Easter Island.

Best virtual museum tours

In recent years, Google has partnered with over 2,5000 art museums to upload high-resolution versions of millions of pieces of art. Highlights include New York’s MoMA , DC’s National Gallery of Art , Chicago’s Art Institute , the Casa Battl ó, and Amsterdam’s Van Gogh Museum to name a few.

In addition, The Louvre offers a virtual tour , as do The Vatican Museums , many of the Smithsonian Museums , the Russian Museum , the top-rated British Museum , the Minneapolis  Museum of Russian Art , and the Palace Museum in Beijing.

You may not be able to kiss the Blarney Stone right now, but you can tour the Blarney Castle from afar. You can also visit the Museum of Flight,  the Museum of Science, the Museum of Natural History,  the National Women's History Museum  and Boston's History of Science Museum .

While museums are often an inherently visual experience, there's a lot to be learned from archives of past lectures and tours like the ones preserved online by Nashville's Frist Museum , the Hunter Museum of American Art in Chattanooga, Tennessee, the Smithsonian American Art Museum,  the Frick , and others.

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Explore national parks

While travel to National Parks is best avoided for the time being, you don't need to miss out on the scenery. Virtual Yosemite is absolutely stunning and one of the best, replete with audio. Both Yellowstone National Park and Mount Rushmore offer virtual tours as well. 

Google has similar 360 degree audio-visual tours of five select national parks, including Kenai Fjords, Hawai'i Volcanos , Carlsbad Caverns, Bryce Canyon , and Dry Tortugas, as well as 31 more on Google Earth . You can also get an up-close look at almost 4,000 pieces of artwork, artifacts, and other treasures related to the history and culture of the national parks, and view online exhibits .

Digital safaris

Wildlife is a big draw for travelers, whether it's sighting some of the Big Five in Africa, glimpsing whales in North America, or introducing your children to new animals in person on a family safari . But if you're forays into the bush are grounded for now, many zoos and aquariums have created digital access to their habitats.

You can easily watch several live webcams of some of the nation’s greatest zoos and aquariums, including the  San Diego Zoo , Houston Zoo , Zoo Atlanta , the Tennessee Aquarium , and the Georgia Aquarium . Additionally you can see Canadian farm animals doing their thing , or you could watch Stella the Dog jump endlessly into huge piles of Maine leaves.

You may also like:  These nine wildlife web cams offer access to your favorite animals

Virtual hiking

Thanks to panoramic video, you can get a really good idea of what a hike looks like well before you arrive at the trailhead. For example, you can experience all of the following top-rated hikes right now from your computer or tablet:  Bryce Canyon , Grand Canyon , GR20 , Inca Trail , and the death-defying Angel's Landing . For even more great hikes, simply YouTube one of Lonely Planet’s top 10 treks or any other hike that suits your fancy. Bonus points if you follow along during a workout to enhance the realism.

Famous landmarks

You can visit many wonders of nature, including the Amazon Rainforest , Iguazu Falls , the Komodo Islands , or Table Mountain , using virtual tours. Or you can explore the Statue of Liberty , the Sahara Desert , Niagara Falls , or even a guided tour of the Eiffel Tower . For even more virtual tours, search your bucket list of adventures with  AirPano , Google Earth , or YouTube .

Travel to outer space

The moon hasn't made it to Lonely Planet's Best In Travel list (yet!), and even without self-isolation and shelter-in-place measures for COVID-19, many of us may never travel to space. But thanks to technology, now is as good of a time as any to do so virtually. Before blasting off, considering touring some of NASA’s offices first. Then relive the last lunar missions and moon walks in stunning HD. Or take a virtual tour of Mars with the help of Google. 

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The novel coronavirus (Covid-19) is now a global pandemic. Find out what this  means for travelers . 

This article was originally published March 2020 and was last updated October 2020.

This article was first published March 2020 and updated October 2020

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Best online travel sites 2022

Use the best online travel sites to plan your trip ahead of time so you can enjoy your time away.

• Buying advice
• Testing process

The best online travel sites are wonderful not only plan your next trip for peace of mind, they're also a fun way to get excited ahead of your next adventure. You can simply go to one site and plan most of your trip's main parts from flights and hotels to rental cars and excursions. If what you're after is just hotel bookings, check out our list of the best hotel booking sites .

While what many of these sites offer is similar, it's the way in which they do it which is important. The last thing you need is a stress-inducing website when planning to go away to relax and unwind. So we've reviewed the best sites based on their price, of course, but also on the way they work, with the ease of use and clarity as important features. We also checked to make sure you won't suffer any extra charges added on top at the last minute. Plus, we took rewards schemes into account, which could help you save money upfront or in the longer term if you use some sites more than once.

With all that in mind, these are the very best online travel sites out there right now.

The best online travel sites

1. expedia.com: best online travel site overall .

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Expedia is a big name in online travel sites and hotel booking services and owns many popular sites like Hotels.com and Hotwire.com. We're fans of the original, though, thanks to its clean and straightforward to use interface. Hit the packages section of the site, and you can add up to five connecting flights, choose to add accommodation for all of or only part of your trip, and tag on car rentals too. 

It's all suitably well laid out, and it only takes a few seconds to start putting together your itinerary. However, we do wish there were a few more options for filtering out accessibility issues. Still, for most people, Expedia.com has everything they'll need, and there's even the option of a cruise too if you fancy it. It's as aspirational to look at as it is useful to, well, use and there are extra discounts for booking multiple parts of your vacation with the site. A Things To Do section rounds off the site's bid to help you plan your entire trip in one place.

2. Booking.com: Best for ease of use

Booking.com

Booking.com is a giant in the world of holiday bookings and not only offers over half a million properties in more than 207 countries but also offers flights and car rental services too. As such you can do it all from this one spot which makes it a very easy-to-use option. That said, there is a lot going on, and the user interface can be a little overwhelming at times. 

But with a superb rewards program, it is a great option that encourages you to keep coming back, making it easier to use as you become accustomed. You can even sort your taxi hire from this site meaning there is very little to think about when you get traveling as it's all been planned ahead of time. You also don't have to pay a booking fee on lots of hotels, allowing you to remain flexible – ideal if you're traveling about a lot on your journey.

3. CheapTickets.com: Best for finding things to do 

CheapTickets.com

CheapTickets is another site acquired by Expedia, but it does things a little differently. You can easily add on flight, hotel, and car or any combination of the three for package deals, although multiple flights are under a different option. So far, so Expedia (if less intuitive), but you can also clearly purchase event tickets from the site, which is far more useful if you want a one-stop-shop place to buy your trip. It's something other sites provide, but CheapTickets is that bit keener to entice you into the process, even if the site itself is a little cheesier looking than others. 

There's also the site's Vacation Value Finder, which lets you tweak how much you're willing to spend and what you're looking for from a vacation before making some fun suggestions. It's perfect for finding a last-minute deal if you don't have your heart set on one place. Students will also appreciate a section dedicated to them with extra discounts once you verify you're a student. All in all, it's a great varied site for numerous different needs. 

4. Priceline.com: Best for user reviews 

Priceline.com

Priceline is a big deal in the online travel site world for a good reason. It's effortless to use with options available for flights, cars, hotels, or any combination of the three. It's mildly annoying that Priceline's super cheap Pricebreaker deals don't extend to bundles, so you won't get an incredible bargain like you would if you booked separately. However, combining the set is still a worthwhile deal with discounts offered for the more you bundle together. 

One thing we really appreciated is that every hotel we looked at had dozens of reviews, and they're all from verified customers. It takes seconds to gain a reasonably accurate picture of what to expect from wherever you're considering booking. That's the perfect peace of mind when you're booking online, and you can't be sure of what you're getting without user reviews backing hotel statements up. Clearly laid out, you can focus on enjoying rather than worrying. Finally, Priceline is keen to make its VIP scheme easily accessible with straightforward discounts offered to you over time -- something that not all sites so clearly highlight. 

5. Kayak.com: Best for aggregated results 

If you're short on time, Kayak is pretty useful. That's because you simply enter where you want to go, and it aggregates results from multiple different sources. While it means you never book directly with Kayak, it does mean you get results quickly and without having to search around yourself, even if you will feel a bit overwhelmed with adverts while you search. 

The site itself looks a little basic, but under the hood is a surprising number of different filters (although no accessibility ones to speak of) and all the critical information you could require, although obviously you'll be sent to another site for the full details. The site also has a deals section, which has some great bargains for things you can do once you reach your destination, along with cheap car rental deals. It might not be pretty, but if you simply don't want to do the groundwork yourself, Kayak has you covered. It can be a real time-saver, and we reckon it's particularly useful if you're mostly researching possible trips in the future and want rough price estimates. Just watch out for the fact you can’t bundle in car rental deals. 

6. Hotwire.com: Best for renting properties 

Hotwire keeps things straightforward. All you need to do is enter what you're looking for, and a somewhat dated interface tells you what's available. It's not as pretty as some sites, but we really liked the extensive property type filters available. Want to stay on a houseboat or in a chalet at your destination? Hit the relevant filter, and you can find out if that's an option in the locale. That might not matter if your heart is set on a hotel, but it's a nice bonus even amongst the awkward site layout. 

Elsewhere, it's mostly business as usual, but that's no bad thing. Well laid out discounts are available to compare reasonably quickly, and most locations have plenty of reviews. If you feel like tracking down specific deals, you can do that too, with the site keen to offer up discounts to central locations if you're not quite sure where you'd like to visit next. It feels like the site needs updating when you compare it to its rivals, but it works well and speedily enough.

7. Agoda: Best for private home rental in Asia 

Agoda is a great option if you want to look for accommodation that isn't a hotel as this specializes in offering apartments and private rentals. In fact, there are dedicated market managers that work on finding properties, especially in Asia. As such you can find unique destination rentals at decent rates and should you change your mind there is a helpful 24-hour free cancellation policy in place. 

Everything is very easy to use and if you want to make more than one booking you can make great savings. Customer support is also a plus, as there is a 24-hour multilingual customer support service available when booking. With millions of reviews, Agoda makes finding a property very easy with a feeling of trust that can offer great peace of mind.

What to look for in an online travel site

Booking Travel Packages Travel packages can let you combine flights, hotel reservations and car rentals together for a better deal than booking separately. Some companies, like Priceline, pick hotels and flights for you, to get you to your destination for the lowest price. Other companies let you mix and match flights, hotels and car rentals to fit your schedule.

Booking Airfare One of the biggest reasons for searching on a travel site is to find cheap airfare. While there are dozens of airfare-specific websites, travel sites also give you the option to add hotel stays and car rentals. The best travel sites combine flight information from over nine different airlines and let you sort flights by price, number of stops, duration and flight class.

Booking International Travel Finding airfare for international travel is the easiest part of booking an overseas trip. AirGorilla helps you find accommodations and rent GPS units with your rental car, so you can find your way around. Often, sites will recommend hotels that are far from your actual destination or event. Searching for reservations on a site that gives accommodation recommendations will help you schedule an international trip with less stress.

How we tested the best online travel sites

We looked at how easy each site is to use during our testing, such as how quickly the site loaded and how easy it was to find what we were looking for. We considered whether the site felt cluttered with adverts or seemed like a dated interface. We also looked at how easy it was to find Contact Us pages, price guarantee information, and any kind of special deals section. 

We also considered how easily bundle deals could be arranged and how extensive they were and any potential discounts tied to them. We checked filter options to see how flexible and easy it was to look up different needs along the way.

We looked at trips between Los Angeles and Miami, Paris to Lisbon, and New York City to Los Angeles during testing. We also looked at lesser-known routes to see if they were also catered for appropriately.

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Jennifer has been freelancing for over 10 years. In the past, she's written about all things tech and gaming wise for outlets as varied as The Independent, Playboy, Eurogamer, and TechRadar. In her spare time, she spends far too much time watching films, attempting to train her pet guinea pigs, and mastering making the perfect burrito.  She's a full time freelancer, but a regular tech news contributor to Top Ten Reviews.

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Best Online Travel Agencies

Booking.com is our top choice for making your trip arrangements

Ligaya Malones is an editor, blogger, and freelance writer specializing in food and travel. Ligaya's work has appeared in publications including Lonely Planet and BRIDES.

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Planning a trip can be easier through an online travel agency than if you handle each aspect of the planning separately. You can book hotels, air travel, rental cars, and more through a single site, and booking everything together sometimes results in discounts. By inputting a destination, a range of dates, and other preferences, you will see a list of options for each aspect of travel.

The best online travel agencies offer options from the largest number of airlines, hotels, car rental agencies, and more. Look for sites that offer discounts for combining reservations for different aspects of your trip. For example, the best sites will have lower rates if you book both plane tickets and a hotel through their services. The best sites also provide reviews from customers who actually have booked through the service. These are our top picks.

• Best Overall: Booking.com
• Best Budget: Skyscanner
• Best Price Predictor: Hopper
• Most Innovative: Kiwi.com
• Best for Eco-Conscious: Kind Traveler
• Best for Social Impact: I Like Local
• Best for Design-Forward Homestays: Plum Guide
• Our Top Picks
• Booking.com

Kind Traveler

I Like Local

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Final Verdict

Frequently asked questions, methodology, best overall : booking.com.

 Booking.com

This industry leader offers one of the most comprehensive trip planning platforms on the Internet.

Lots of options to choose from

Interface is easy to use

Numerous filters to customize your search

Tricky to tell whether changes/cancellations can be made with Booking.com or the vendor directly

Booking.com was founded in 1996 and has grown into an industry leader that stands out for being one of the most comprehensive trip planning platforms out there. From one website, you can compare and book accommodations, flights (including one-way and multi-city flights), sightseeing activities, and even airport taxis. The website lists more than 28 million accommodation options, from hotels, hostels, and B&Bs to vacation homes and luxury resorts—you can browse more choices per destination on Booking.com than other online travel agencies. The website also performs well on cost and typically returns lower-than-average prices for flights and hotels. 

Booking.com's interface is also easy to use. On the home page, search for a hotel by entering your chosen destination and dates. Then, use the extensive list of filters—such as price range and distance from the city center—to narrow the results down and find the best fit. You can also search for a specific hotel, or seek inspiration by clicking through options grouped by destination or property type or by topic such as the country’s best Michelin-starred hotel restaurants or the top cities for vegan travelers. The flights, car rental, and other tabs are just as intuitive. 

Best Budget : Skyscanner

 Skyscanner

You can compare prices across airlines, hotels, and car rentals.

Simple interface

Option to toggle searches between specific dates or by monthly calendars

Search Everywhere button is great for spontaneous planners

Extra clicks are required to make a final purchase

Must read fine print for changes/cancellations—may need to deal directly with the vendor

Ads on the sidebar can be distracting

Find deals on airfare, hotels, and car rentals with an aggregator site like Skyscanner , which uses a metasearch engine to compare prices from all online travel agencies and the airline, hotel, or car rental company in question. Run searches with fixed dates, opt to compare airfare prices month to month, or click “Cheapest Month.” Searches also include options for nearby airports or non-stop flights only. With hotel searches, you can choose to select only from properties with free cancellation, a cleanliness rating of 4.5/5 or higher, or 3- or 4-starred hotels only. Car rental searches include an option to select “return car to different location.”

Once you’ve found the best rate, click on the link to be redirected to the third-party site to make your booking. Feeling spontaneous? The Search Everywhere button on the homepage offers a list of the cheapest flight deals for destinations both locally and across the world—just plug in your departure airport first.

Best Price Predictor : Hopper

The company claims a 95 percent accuracy rate at predicting when flights and hotel rates will be cheapest.

Color-coded system makes it easy to determine cheapest days to buy

App is easy to use

Option to track flights and receive alerts when the best time to buy arises

Some have mentioned the app functions better as a research tool than a booking tool

Unclear whether Hopper will price match if you find a cheaper flight elsewhere

Hopper is a travel app available on iOS and Android that aims to help travelers save on airfare by usng historical data and their own algorithm to predict when flights will be cheapest. Just type in where and when you’d like to fly and Hopper will present you with a color-coded pricing calendar indicating how much tickets are likely to cost. (Green is the least expensive, then yellow, orange, and red for most expensive.) Hopper will also recommend you either buy now or wait, or you can choose to watch a trip and receive notifications on the best time to buy. In addition, the app has expanded to offer hotel and car rental price predictions, too.

Some newer features since the app’s inception in 2009 include an option to freeze a price for a limited time—for an extra fee—as well as exclusive app-only discounts. Hopper is free to download, and you can choose to book directly through the app, though some users mentioned they use Hopper as more of a research tool before booking directly with the airline or hotel. The company claims a 95 percent accuracy rate at predicting flight rates up to a year ahead.

Most Innovative : Kiwi.com

This metasearch engine scours the web to piece together the ideal itinerary using planes, trains, buses, and more.

Creative itineraries get you where you need to go, especially if you’ve got a multi-stop trip

Kiwi Guarantee offers rebooking or cancellation protections

Nomad option appeals to travelers with a lot of flexibility

Creative itineraries mean you may not fly out of the same airport you flew into

Kiwi Guarantee has an additional fee

Charges all-in-one fee for booking flights, trains, buses (though you can always purchase a la carte)

Travelers planning multi-city destinations and seeking a bargain, as well as those looking to take planes, trains, and automobiles to get there, might consider Kiwi . Kiwi is a metasearch engine that scours and pieces together itineraries from various airlines (even if they don’t have a codeshare agreement), considers multiple airports (even if your arrival airport is different from departure), and offers booking options, whether you’re looking at very specific dates or more general ones (up to 60 nights).

Some will find the ability to make multiple bookings for a particular trip more convenient than going at it manually several different times, though note that you must opt into the Kiwi Guarantee program to access rebooking and refund protections should your reservation change or be canceled. Kiwi’s Nomad option allows you to plug in a bunch of destinations you’d like to visit and the length of your intended stay, and the website will churn out the most affordable itineraries for review.

Best for Eco-Conscious : Kind Traveler

A give-and-get business model means booking accommodations with exclusive perks, a donation to environmental organizations, and more.

All participating hotels include a local give-back component

Exclusive savings and perks

Participating hotels are located in some of the most beautiful places in the world

Inventory is much smaller compared to other booking platforms

Some of the amenities mentioned are based on availability only

In 2022, Kind Traveler (an online trave agency focused on hotel bookings) announced an increase in environmentally and socially conscious hotels, charity donations, voluntourism opportunities, and additional perks like waived resort fees or a welcome amenity.

Unlock exclusive hotel rates and perks from participating Kind Traveler hotels with a minimum $10/night minimum donation to a local charity. For example, stay at the Six Senses Laamu in the Maldives and receive up to $33 off the nightly rate and perks such as a food and beverage credit and an Earth Lab or Alchemy Bar workshop when you make a donation to Manta Trust. The organization funds coastal research to protect the island nation’s large yet fragile population of reef mantas.

Select from more than 140 participating hotels from the Hawaiian Islands to Bozeman, Montana, and the Maldives. Charities include wildlife, human rights, arts, education, and environmental preservation organizations.

Best for Social Impact : I Like Local

Choose from a host of travel experiences with the peace of mind that 100 percent of the cost goes directly to local partners.

Social impact mission woven into organization’s business model

Immersive experiences led by local guides

Range of experiences offered

May not be best fit for those seeking upscale, luxury experiences and stays

Can’t sort experiences by a list of countries (though an interactive map is available)

No experiences outside of Africa and Asia

For an online travel agency with a booking platform designed to route dollars spent directly to the communities travelers intend to visit, consider I Like Local . Visit the website to browse a host of travel experiences in countries including Indonesia, Kenya, and Cambodia. Experiences include homestays and farmstays as well as wellness and culturally oriented experiences—from cooking and cycling tours to weaving classes.

To search for an experience, select from drop-down items like travel dates and experience categories, or view a global map and click on a country to view experiences that way.

The platform got its start in 2014 and has grown to 4,000 local hosts across nearly 20 countries. As a social impact organization, 100 percent of each booking fee goes to local hosts. To date, 16,000 travelers have booked with I Like Local.

Best for Design-Forward Homestays : Plum Guide

Browse and book seriously vetted, design-forward vacation homes.

Highly curated inventory of vacation rentals across the world

Design-forward

Thorough vetting process

Does not publish guest reviews

Other platforms have homes available across more destinations

When it comes to booking a vacation home, serviced apartment, or condo, travelers are spoiled for choice. Plum Guide is an online travel agency that specializes in accommodations—though not just any home makes its directory. The company claims that each potential home listed on its site must jump through 150 hoops to be included, from internet speed and mattress and pillow quality to the showers’ water pressure and the home’s proximity to dining, shopping, and attractions.

Search by a featured collection on the website such as “ pet-friendly homes ” or “one-of-a-kind homes in Palm Springs.” Scroll to the bottom of its homepage to view its top destinations, as well as a list of all destinations where Plum Guide homes are available, including Barbados, Mexico, Portugal, Switzerland, the U.S., and Turkey. Note: From the top right-hand corner of the site, use the dropdown menu to select currency of choice.

As long as you know what you value most out of your travel experience—such as affordability, social impact, or luxe accommodations—there’s an online travel agency to help plan your next trip. Be sure to read the fine print, as some agencies are third-party websites and not direct vendors. If you're not sure where to start, Booking.com is your best bet for a smooth user experience and hard-to-beat offers on flights, hotels, and other travel arrangements.

What Is the Biggest Travel Agency?

Our choice for best overall, Booking.com, is known as an industry leader with listings for all major hotels, airlines, car rental companies, and more. It boasts more choices for accommodations per destination than any other site, and we found its interface to be user-friendly.

Are Online Travel Agencies Worth It?

This depends on your needs and priorities. The best online travel agencies certainly can save time by booking everything all at once. However, if you're someone who is good at haggling and enjoys the details of planning a trip, you might be able to find better deals by reaching out to hotels or other destinations and speaking to someone personally.

Is It Cheaper to Book Online Than With a Travel Agent?

Not always. A travel agent you know and trust should have the experience and connections to find deals that can match or surpass what you'll find online. Additionally, if something goes wrong, travel agents provide you with an actual person you can use as an advocate to correct the problem . But if you don't have access to a good travel agent, online sites still provide plenty of ways to streamline planning and save money .

We considered dozens of online travel agencies and narrowed down the options based on user experience, volume and quality of inventory, unique offerings and specials, and customer reviews. We also assessed travel companies’ environmentally and socially conscious policies.

Catherine Falls Commercial / Getty Images

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60 Best travel websites for researching & planning a trip

Researching and planning a holiday is like decorating a room. It’s all about the preparation. (Yes, you can have a great spontaneous holiday, but there’s a lot of luck involved in that…).

In the good old days, before the internet, we relied on travel agents, but in today’s digital world, a wealth of online websites and apps are on-hand to help.

But too many. The choice is overwhelming and the quality and trustworthiness variable.

So which ones are the best? Which ones should you use and for what purpose?

Planning a holiday – even before you book it – involves several steps. We’ve broken down this process and recommended the best tools to use at each stage, to make your research and planning process as simple, painless, fast –and enjoyable – as possible.

Where to go & what to do

1.1 ideas & inspiration.

Discover new places you never thought of going to, wonderful things to see & do on your travels. Add them to your travel bucket list.

Bucket List Travels

Concept: This specialist travel inspiration site works with an impressive list of leading travel writers around the world to recommend the world’s greatest travel experiences. It also offers destination guides, simple itineraries that link the top attractions together, and recommends the best places to stay while you’re there. You can search and filter through the recommendations e.g. to find recommendations by price, or that are suitable for kids. You can also save your ‘finds’ to your travel bucket list.

Pros: the search and filtering is unique amongst travel inspiration sites, and it allows you to sort through the thousands of expert recommendations to find what you want quickly – a huge time saver. The destination guides have curated, not comprehensive recommendations, so they’re effectively handing you a list of great recommendations for when you visit a new destination, i.e. the ‘bucket list’ experiences not-to-be-missed. The adding to favourites is also unique – great for ‘saving for later’ those brilliant experiences or places to stay you come across.

Cons: coverage is limited to only 100 or so destinations, which mainly centres on the UK and western Europe. Non-Europe content is limited (but being added in the near future).

When to use: Use it before any other site to decide on where to go or what to do next, and to get an outline list/itinerary of what you want to do there. Then supplement that with tours & activities from other inspiration sites listed here, especially the ones with the local authentic experiences.

Website : https://www.bucketlisttravels.com/

Concept: Instagram is a social media platform that allows users to share photos and videos with their followers. It’s popular among individuals, influencers, and businesses for promoting their personal brands or products.

Pros: Insta is a great source of travel inspiration, as it allows you to discover new destinations, attractions, and experiences through visually appealing and engaging content. You can follow travel influencers and bloggers for tips and recommendations, discover lesser-known destinations and experiences, find out about local events and festivals, and see how others experience a particular destination, which can provide ideas for your own itinerary.

When to use it: Day-to-day inspiration and idea generation for your next trip. Bookmark your favourites, or save your ideas to your travel bucket list for the next time you do want to go somewhere special.

Website : https://www.instagram.com/

Concept: Pinterest is a social media platform that allows users to discover, collect and share images and videos on virtual pinboards. Users can create boards on any topic and save Pins from other users or external websites, as well as search for inspiration and ideas. The platform has over 400 million active users worldwide.

Pros: Like Instagram, it’s a great visual travel inspiration tool, for discovering what to do in the world and specific destinations.

When to use it: For visual searches of potential destinations, and saving ideas (pins) for future trips.

Website : https://www.pinterest.com

Travel & Leisure

This high-end, luxury travel magazine covers a range of topics including hotels and resorts, airlines, cruises, food and drink, and various travel destinations around the world. Being a magazine, it focuses on the new and topical, so it’s a showcase of the latest and greatest in travel if novelty is your thing.

Pros: It’s top-quality content and genuine expertise from leading journalists and travel writers, with selective, curated recommendations. They have tonnes of round-ups of the ‘world’s best’ too.

Cons: Recommendations can be a bit too curated, missing lots of smaller experiences, and are often outside of the budget of most travellers. It’s primarily a magazine with an online afterthought, so recommendations tend to get buried in long pages of text. The site search turns up articles/posts that you then have to read further, rather than specific recommendations, and you can’t filter anything which is the big time saver.

When to use it: Sign up for their social feeds and newsletters, which often feature great round-ups like: “Best place to…”. Great for day-to-day inspiration and idea generation for your next trip. Bookmark your favourites, or save your ideas to your travel bucket list for the next time you do want to go somewhere special.

Honourable mentions: other great magazines for this include Conde Nast Traveller (featured later) and Wanderlust .

Website : https://www.travelandleisure.com/

Travel blogs

Concept: Travel blogs (too many to mention, but pretty much all the same in format) feature personal experiences, advice, and recommendations, usually written by an individual traveller or group of travellers who share their travel stories, photos, and tips with their audience.

Pros: You can’t beat personal experience when it comes to travel recommendations, and often these experienced author-travellers offer good insights and tips. They’re also usually an interesting, engaging read.

Cons: for planning a trip, blogs are hit and miss. They are written from the perspective of the blogger i.e. where they have just been or what they have just done, so it’s pot luck if that coincides with where you want to go or do next. They are also flat, text articles – you can’t search or filter their recommendations.

When to use it: Follow the ones you like if you enjoy reading such things. Once you have your list itinerary roughly planned out, they’re worth a quick scan for additional tips and insights (if you can find something relevant).

1.2 Top attractions, activities, tours & events

If you’re ready to start planning your trip, and nothing on your travel bucket list fits the bill, take a look at one of these sites to decide:

Concept: See listing above.

When to use: Head to their search results that shows all 100+ destination they cover, then use the filters to select a destination based on cost (cheap v expensive), or theme  (e.g. Science & Nature, Art, History & Culture) etc. You can also handily filter the list according to the best month of the year to visit.

FlightsFrom

Concept: this handy website lists all of the destinations you can fly to from every airport, on what days and with what airline.

When to use it: great for identifying where you can fly to from your local airport, and planning multi-destination trips.

Website : https://www.flightsfrom.com/

Google Flights

Google’s flight aggregator and comparison service consolidates flight schedules from all of the world’s commercial airlines in one place. By entering your dates and departure/arrival airports, you can quickly see who flies there, on what dates and at what times, and the price of the fare. Prices and availability are updated in real-time, and you can sign up for price alerts.

How to use it: The ‘Explore’ function allows you to specify a departure airport and see the cheapest flights to any destination you can fly to from that airport, for certain dates and trip durations – so great if you don’t have a fixed destination in mind. You can also handily add more than one departure airport if you have more than one departure option. (NB FlightsFrom shows you all available flights; Google Flights shows you available flights and their prices). NB Skyscanner has a similar ‘Explore everywhere’ feature, however, it is only available on the app and you can only enter one departure destination).

Website : https://www.google.com/travel/flights

This travel inspiration website provides a wealth of travel content, including destination guides, hotel and restaurant recommendations.

Pros: there’s loads of decent quality content, and their network of experts worldwide have good credentials and specialise in the destinations they write about.

Cons: The recommendations feature in text-heavy pages, making it hard to use for planning. You can’t filter, or save your favourites, and if you site search, you then have to wade through lots and lots of article posts. The content can also be quite random – as if it’s what someone felt like writing at the time, rather than being structured.

When to use it: Once you have your main list drawn up from the other sites listed here, it’s worth a quick scan for additional tips and insights.

Website : https://www.tripsavvy.com/

This global deals site specialises in providing exclusive offers and one-of-a-kind experiences to its 30 million members worldwide (membership is free). They partner with over 5,000 travel suppliers to source cut-price inventory.

When to use it: Sign up for their newsletter, then sit back and let the deals roll in. If you’re price-conscious, or just love a deal, then use their offers to decide on where to go and what to do next. Works best if you’re flexible on dates – most deals will be for when demand is lower i.e. in winter and/or outside of school holidays.

Website : https://www.travelzoo.com

1.3 What to do when you get there: attractions

Now you’ve decided on a destination, what should you do there? What are the top attractions, the must-see-and-dos, and the ‘bucket list experiences not to be missed?

How to use it: Navigate to the destination guide webpage. Our expert writes not only curates the top travel experiences – attractions, activities, tours & events – for you, but also further splits them as either ‘bucket list’ i.e. the not-to-be-missed, or ‘other’ experiences – nice to know about, but only for if you have time/interest.

Also, be sure to scroll through the destination page photo gallery for a pictorial summary.

Google Travel

Concept: Google’s travel planning platform offers a range of tools to help users plan their trips. It includes Google Flights (see later), a hotel aggregator and holiday rentals

For deciding what to do when you go somewhere, type your destination into the search, then click on the ‘Things to do’ side icon for full listings. It tries to list in order of priority/popularity, which mostly works, though it is an auto-generated list. The written descriptions come from Wikipedia, so it lacks that human expertise and it all feels a bit soulless (to me anyway). The interface however is easy to use, and you can add favourites to a trip list.

How to use it: After you’ve been to Bucket List Travels for the curated, expert list, if you feel you need more in your itinerary, and/or you’re worried we may have missed something, then use Google Travel to check the full comprehensive listings and see if there is anything else you want to do.

Website : https://www.google.com/travel/

Lonely Planet

Concept: The original ‘guidebook’ company, they have destination guides for pretty much every place on the planet. Their expert writers, who must specialise in the destination, provide comprehensive listings and recommendations for sightseeing, accommodation and food & drink, plus very detailed logistical and practical information.

How to use it: They’re comprehensive, not curated. They include a lot of minor attractions that the majority of travellers would not want to bother with, and there’s not a lot of imagery, just text. I use them as a cross-check once I have outlined what you want to do. It’s too detailed/comprehensive for researching and planning – unless you’ve got days to spare. Handy to take the book with you, though, for the in-depth local tips when you’re there.

Honourable mentions: all of the guidebooks are broadly similar. Also try Rough Guides , Fodor’s , Frommers’ , Rick Steves (Europe only) and DK Eyewitness .

Website : https://www.lonelyplanet.com/

Tourism Associations

Concept: A local government body, tasked with promoting tourism to the destination, that will provide comprehensive information, advice and recommendations for visitors to both attract and facilitate their visit. Being the local specialist, they should know better than anyone what to see & do, and they often include many smaller, high quality attractions and tours that others will miss. However, the quality of websites is highly variable (best in the most developed, richer nations as you’d expect), and they have to be impartial so there is no curation and little opinion.

How to use it: A great resource when it’s done well. If you’re going to a developed nation, I would say they are a must-visit. Use them to start drafting up your list.

Concept: A video-sharing website where users can upload, share, and view videos on a variety of topics. It attracts billions of monthly active users. There’s a digital tonne of travel content on there, covering every aspect – from destination recommendations to videos on how to book flights.

When to use it: if you’re a visual person, YouTube is a great resource for travel inspiration. It’s jammed packed these days with ‘What to see in X’, with video and image slideshows showing you the top sights. It tends to be top sights only, but a good place to start drawing up your shortlist. It’s also great for travel advice and tips.

Website : https://youtube.com

1.4 What to do when you get there: local experiences

‘Authentic’ experiences enable you to experience the real destination, to experience its culture, to meet its people, and to live like a local. Indeed, many travellers prefer them to crowd-thronged, tourist-spoiled ‘big ticket’ attractions. Here are some resources I use to discover them in my chosen destination:

Air BnB experiences

Concept: This service allows individuals and small businesses to offer unique activities and tours to travellers in over 1,000 cities around the world. Experiences can range from food tours to pottery classes to wildlife safaris, and are designed and led by locals who have expertise in their field.

Pros: Coverage is extensive, and the experiences can be a more immersive and authentic way for travellers to connect with the local culture and community.

Cons: Some of the experiences listed I feel are more for locals than tourists, and it’s tours/classes, so not really attractions you visit like museums.

When to use it: If you’re a first-time visitor wanting to tick off the main attractions, use a site like Bucket List Travels first to find those out and make a preliminary list, then complement what they give you with these experiences to add some local flavour and insight to your itinerary.

Website : https://www.airbnb.com/experiences

Atlas Obscura

An online travel guide that features unique, offbeat and even bizarre travel experiences – be it unknown/obscure destinations or little-known experiences within well-known destinations. It also offers tours and experiences to some of the destinations featured on the website.

Pros: Once again, this is a site for those seeking off-the-beaten-track, authentic and unusual experiences.

Cons: It’s very niche, aimed at the truly intrepid traveller. If you’re a mainstream tourist, wanting to tick off the main sites, this is not the site for you.

When to use it: If you want to avoid the big tourist sites and experience something unique and different in a destination. If you’re a first-time visitor wanting to tick off the main attractions, use a site like Bucket List Travels first to find those out and make a preliminary list, then complement what they give you with the Atlas Obscura experiences to add some local flavour and insight to your itinerary.

Website : https://www.atlasobscura.com/

Spotted by Locals

Concept: A travel website/blog that provides insider city tips from locals. Each city ‘guide’ is curated by a team of handpicked city residents, featuring their favourite local spots for food, drinks, culture, and entertainment.

Pros: it’s a great source for finding those authentic local experiences, away from the tourist hoards.

Cons: Recommendations/articles are quite random in subject – and you have to scroll through pages and pages of blog posts. You can’t search or filter by interest for example. Coverage is also limited to only 80 cities.

When to use it: They also don’t cover the big-ticket attractions first-time visitors will want to see, so use this for filling gaps in your itinerary or for second visits once the big ones have been ticked off.

Website : https://www.spottedbylocals.com/

1.5 What to do when you get there: tickets & tours

Get Your Guide

Offers a very similar proposition to Viator (see below). GyG though is Europe-based, so it has much stronger tour options in Europe than the US-based Viator, which conversely has a better US inventory.

Website : https://www.getyourguide.com/

Concept: An online tour ‘aggregator’ combines and lists multi-day organised tours, both small and large group, from all the leading tour operator brands like Intrepid , G Adventures and Exodus. They are to guided tours what Booking.com is to hotels. Search is by destination, so you need to know where you want to go first.

Pros: Listings are comprehensive and up to date, giving you a window on all of the options available that you can search and filter to your specific need.

Cons: Always beware the pricing on aggregators. Operators have learned to use low pricing to get you to click through to them, then load that up with expensive extras and upgrades once you are on their site (or they lie about the price in the first place).

When to use: If you want to go on a guided tour, this is a great place to start. It will tell you who the best tour operators are, what are your tour options, and the prices.

Website : https://www.tourradar.com/

Concept: A ‘tour aggregator’ offers a wide range of tours and experiences in destinations worldwide, through local third-party tour operators. (Think of them as the Booking.com or Expedia of tours). Tours can be anything from 1-hour walking tours to 10-day organised tours. A US-based company (owned by TripAdvisor), it’s much more comprehensive in the US than in Europe.

Pros: They partner with the best local tour operators, so the tour quality is good, and you have someone to complain to if things go awry. The site search allows you to sort through the extensive catalogue quickly.

When to use it: Work out where you want to go, and get a feel for the top attractions, somewhere else, then come to Viator to book tickets and tours.

Website : https://www.viator.com/

1.6 Draft an outline itinerary

Now you know what you want to see & do in your destination, work out a rough day-by-day itinerary to ensure you get to do everything you want to do, with minimal travelling around.

Concept: see listing above.

How to use it: For most destination guides (where it makes sense to do so), our writers have set out simple itineraries of what to do and where to go on each day of a trip. For cities, they are usually 3- and 5-day itineraries (the 5-day version has the same first 3 days, then two additional days on top). They link all of the top attractions together in the most logistically convenient way, minimising travel, and including recommendations for lunch and dinner while you’re there.

Rick Steves Europe

Rick Steves is a travel guidebook author and television personality who specialises in European travel. His guidebooks offer practical advice and recommendations for budget travel, including tips on accommodations, dining, and sightseeing. His approach emphasises cultural immersion and connecting with locals, and his guides often include suggested walking tours and off-the-beaten-path destinations.

Pros: Rick’s guidebooks offer much more in-depth expertise than the others for Europe, with high-quality, well-researched recommendations based on experts with years of experience. The website has great travel forums for asking fellow travellers questions.

How to use it: It’s not a site for researching where to go and what to do. It’s better once you know where you want to go, and really want to drill into the fine detail. However, like Bucket List Travels , the site does have helpful itineraries that set out where to go and what to do day-to-day.

Website : https://www.ricksteves.com/

1.7 Specialist travel

Cruise Critic

The world’s leading online cruise review website and community provides comprehensive reviews, ratings and forums to help you assess cruise vacations. It’s the TripAdvisor of cruises (and not surprisingly, it’s owned by them), so just like with TripAdvisor, don’t believe everything you read.

When to use: We would personally recommend finding recommendations elsewhere e.g. from cruise travel journalists writing for newspapers, magazines or even Bucket List Travels. Then come to this site to check out the reviews of your shortlist.

Website : https://www.cruisecritic.co.uk/

Euan’s Guide

Set up by wheelchair user Euan MacDonald MBE, this disabled access review website is the go-to tool for many disabled people wanting to travel in the UK and beyond. It shares accessibility information for venues and the experiences/reviews of other disabled users.

Pros: Helps to solve some of the challenges disabled people face, and gives them the confidence to travel.

Cons: the coverage is mainly UK and Europe, but thankfully is widening to the rest of the world at a pace.

Website : https://www.euansguide.com

We Love 2 Ski

This excellent online resource provides skiers and snowboarders with up-to-date and comprehensive information on ski resorts, conditions, accommodation, equipment, and more. The website features detailed reviews, insider tips, and expert advice on everything related to skiing, as well as an active forum for the ski community to share their experiences and knowledge.

It’s managed by 3 ski experts, with a wealth of expertise between them and who really know their stuff and take pride in keeping the information up-to-date. It’s one of those more genuine sites that care about their advice and is not trying to constantly do the hard sell.

When to use: if you want to go skiing, start here. If you’ve already found somewhere to go or stay, be sure to check what they say about it here before you go.

Website : https://welove2ski.com/

Getting there & around

2.1 flights.

Concept: a flight deal finder service that sends you price and deal alerts on flights. You enter your preferred departure airport and they send you notifications of great deals, and price movements. Tickets are discounted 40-90%, for flights 2-6 months out in Economy, Business and First classes.

How to use it: If you’ve got flexible travel dates, or have a bucket list destination in mind. Sign up and wait for a deal.

Website : https://www.going.com/

Google’s Flights is a flight aggregator that allows you to find and compare flights. It enables you to find the airlines that fly between your destinations, and available flight times.

Prices and availability are updated in real-time, and you can sign up for price alerts. The pricing can sometimes be inaccurate, however, and when you click through, it’s usually for a basic fare without any luggage.

When to use it: Start your flight search here. You may have to add in the extras, then compare prices, or you may not get the cheapest option.

Honourable mentions: Skyscanner and Kayak offer similar services. In my experience, they pretty much have the same inventory. It really comes down to which interface you prefer.

Hopper is one of the US’s most successful travel apps, selling over $4.5B of travel each year. It helps you find the best deals on flights, hotels, home rentals, and car hire by analysing trillions of data points to predict when prices will rise or fall. When you set your dates, you see a helpful calendar showing when prices are highest and lowest, and you can sign up for price alerts.

Their second big USP is their ‘price freeze’ option, where you pay a small fee (5%-15% of the price) to freeze the price for a limited duration (options range up to 3 weeks). If the price goes up, you pay no more; if it goes down, you pay the lower price (like insurance). They also offer Flight Disruption and Cancel for Any Reason Guarantees.

Pros: Simple to use, the most accurate predictor of prices, really helps you get the best deal (if your dates are flexible). The insurance options have been a godsend to many in the recent years of travel disruption and inflating prices. Unlike other flight aggregators like Kayak or Skyscanner they show the different airline fare options within the app, so you don’t get caught by the artificially low basic fare enticing you to click through (see Skyscanner summary).

Cons: None that we can see! It really is an excellent service.

When to use it: Once you know where you want to go, come to the site to get the best deal on flights, car hire and accommodation. Simple as that.

It works best if you’re dates are flexible, so you can pick the cheapest travel dates, and/or if you have time before you book – take out the freeze option and you can be assured that the price will only come down, or sign up for the price alert.

Website : https://hopper.com/

Concept: This flight aggregator, owned by Chinese-backed Trip.com and based in Edinburgh, does the same thing as Google Flights. . It enables you to find the airlines that fly between your destinations, and available flight times.

Prices and availability are updated in real-time, and you can sign up for price alerts.

When to use it: I’ve not found much difference in pricing to Google Flights, though I much prefer Skyscanner’s user interface. It really comes down to personal choice.

Honourable mentions: US-based Kayak , originating in the US, offers a similar service to Skyscanner.

Website : https://www.skyscanner.net/

The Points Guy

If you’re someone that loves to save on travel using reward points, check out this advisory site by Brian Kelly. As he puts it, it’s ‘your go-to source for all things travel, points, miles, credit cards and more’. His advice covers both where best to earn points, and how best to spend them. There’s both a US and a UK website , with custom advice based on where you reside.

He gives up-to-date advice and tips in this ever-changing, evolving space that cuts through all of the confusion, and helps you find the best deals in the market, and explains how to take advantage of them.

How to use it: Visit here first if you’ve got points to burn, or will have and want to know the best scheme to sign up for.

Website : https://thepointsguy.com/

2.2 Car hire & taxis

Rentalcars.com

A global car rental booking platform that provides customers with access to over 60,000 rental locations in more than 160 countries worldwide. The site enables you to compare prices and features from a wide range of rental companies. Customers can also benefit from 24/7 support and free cancellation on most bookings.

I’ve regularly rented cars via them, and never found a cheaper deal. The customer service and support are also very good. There’s not really a reason to start looking anywhere else.

Website : https://www.rentalcars.com/

It doesn’t really need any introduction… but just for completeness. Founded in 2009, Uber is a ride-hailing service that connects riders with drivers in most major cities around the world. Through the app, you can request and pay for rides, track your driver’s location, and rate the experience.

Uber’s meteoric rise to a global brand can be attributed to solving several customer issues with then-taxi firms: they would find you a ride tell you how long it would take to arrive, how much the fare would be upfront, and sort payment automatically through your account, thus avoiding the need to have enough cash on you.

Other leading ride-sharing apps include Lyft (US and Canada) and Cabify (Spain & Latin America).

2.3 Rail, Bus & Ferry

Concept: Omio is a comprehensive travel search and booking platform that helps users find and book the best deals on trains, buses, and flights across Europe. The website offers a user-friendly interface, with real-time price comparisons and flexible search options to suit individual needs and preferences.

When to use: It’s a great tool for planning and booking multi-modal trips.

Website : https://www.omio.co.uk/

Rail Europe

Concept: Rail Europe is a one-stop-shop for planning and booking train travel in 33 European countries. The website offers a wide range of tickets, passes, and packages for different destinations and budgets, as well as information on train schedules, routes, and stations. Note, they don’t cover local trams and metros, it’s intercity trains only (that includes Eurostar). Enter the destinations you want to go to and they’ll recommend the best value ticket/pass.

For multiple trips, you’ll likely be recommended a Eurail pass. This brilliant invention allows you to travel on over 30 European railway operators and some ferries too. Kids under 11 travel free with an adult.

Website : https://www.raileurope.com/

2.4 Route planning

Google Maps

Who hasn’t used google Maps? And for good reason. Its coverage is comprehensive, it’s simple to use, and it’s is invaluable when you’re trying to figure out how to get from A to B in an unfamiliar place. It shows travel times and distances in multiple transport modes: on foot, bike, by available public transport and by car.

How to use it: use it to help plan upfront your transportation from point to point in your itinerary.

Website : https://www.google.com/maps

Hands down the best service for planning and booking journeys within and between countries. It combines and compares transport options from over 5,000 transportation providers across 160 countries, then recommends the cheapest, fastest, and most convenient routes for different modes of transportation including flights, trains, buses, and car rentals. The website also provides comprehensive travel information. It will quote prices, distances, times, mileage, route numbers, and which companies to book.

Their slogan is “Discover how to get anywhere by plane, train, bus, ferry & car – and it does exactly what is says on the tin.

Website : https://www.rome2rio.com/

Where to stay

3.1 'best' hotels - curated selections.

Whatever you go, there are always thousands of hotel options. These sites do the research work for you and use experts to curate a list of the best, based on location, quality and quality.

How to use it: For all the destinations we cover, we provide you with a curated list of the best hotels – for all budgets, from the mainstream to the unusual.

The selections are made by our writers, who must not only be leading travel journalists, but also specialise in that destination (either living there or visiting frequently). The writers have at least inspected and usually stayed in the properties they recommend.

Conde Nast Traveller

Similar to Travel & Leisure above, this high-end, luxury global travel magazine covers a range of topics including hotels and resorts, airlines, cruises, food and drink, and various travel destinations around the world.

When to use it: They do great round-ups of the ‘best’ hotels to stay in a destination – but obviously at the top end. If you’re not that price sensitive, start with their shortlist.

Honourable mention: Travel & Leisure, their great rival, also does destination hotel round-ups.

Website : https://www.cntraveller.com/

In my view, it’s the best ‘guidebook’ website for researching and planning a trip online – once you know where you want to go. They simply and helpfully list out a reasonably long short list of things to see & do and places to stay, and rate them each from 1-3, depending on how good they are.

However, like all the guidebooks online, coverage is comprehensive at times, requiring a lot of time and effort to research through it. The website is also swamped with banner ads that are off-putting and annoying.

How to use it: A good place to start your hotel search. They generally do select good options, though it’s more aimed at budget travellers.

Website : https://www.frommers.com/

The Telegraph (Travel)

This long-standing British newspaper does a fine job of curating and rating (out of 10) the best hotels in destinations around the world, for all budgets. The reviews tell you what you want to know – style, location, key amenities – without being overwhelming.

As for Bucket List Travels , selections and reviews are written by top travel writers who have inspected and usually stayed in the property. The number of hotels they recommend is a lot more than Bucket List Travels – and includes ones we certainly wouldn’t include – but it does give you a longer list to start with.

When to use it: if you care about where you stay, and really want one of the best places, this is a great place to start your start for somewhere to stay.

Website : https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/

TripAdvisor

The original hotel review site, it has since expanded to become the global platform for reviews (and information) on hotels, restaurants, attractions, and other travel-related businesses. It also offers a variety of travel-related content and resources, including travel guides and forums.

Over the years it has, sadly become increasingly corrupted with fake reviews, but they can’t fake all of them and as long as there are at least several hundred reviews, the score should be reasonably reflective.

When to use it: I personally like to start drawing up a shortlist of places to stay on other sites listed here, then do a quick check of the reviews of each on TripAdvisor. I also filter to see only the negative comments, then look at 1) how recent they are 2) if it is a one-off complaint i.e. someone had a refund request refused and 3) if it is something that can and probably has been fixed e.g. a rude receptionist. Small room sizes, traffic noise from road proximity, and so on – these issues are not easily fixed.

Website : https://www.tripadvisor.com

3.2 Boutique hotel collections

If it’s a boutique hotel you’re after, try one of these specialist sites. They only list high-quality properties that meet their individual criteria.

Design Hotels

As the name suggests, this website offers a curated selection of over 300 independently owned and operated hotels and resorts around the world, each chosen for its unique design and aesthetic. The site emphasizes design and architecture and offers a range of luxury and boutique properties.

Pros: It’s a brilliant resource for finding unique and interesting stays, especially with modern and/or minimalist interiors.

Cons: if you’re not that worried about hotel design, then it doesn’t offer a lot of value other than a list of interesting hotels.

When to use: if you’re interested in design, and prioritise that in your accommodation, then this is a great resource. If it’s not that important, you’re better off elsewhere with a greater selection and better prices.

Website : https://www.designhotels.com/

This boutique hotel booking website offers a carefully curated selection of stylish, unique and independently-run hotels and vacation rentals around the world. They offer in-depth reviews of each property, personalised recommendations, and a friendly, 24/7 booking service.

Pros: The curated selection of unique and stylish properties is exceptional and of a consistently high quality that you can rely on. Each property has been personally inspected by staff. The reviews, from both customers and staff, are honest and in-depth and tell you who it is and isn’t for, rather than pretend everyone’s going to love it.

Cons: There’s a limited number of properties in many destinations, and it is property, not destination, led – meaning is easier to find the place, then decide on the destination rather than the reverse (which may suit).

When to use: if their style of property i.e. unique, high quality, small and independent, is what you like/are looking for, there’s no better resource to use. If they don’t have something in your preferred destination, then look elsewhere, but check first.

Honourable mention: Sawdays offers a similar service, but they’re UK & Europe only.

Website : https://www.i-escape.com/

Mr & Mrs Smith

This first-rate, UK-based hotel booking website curates handpicked, boutique hotels around the world, each personally inspected to meet their high standards of facilities, service and location. The website has in-depth reviews of each property, with insider tips like what are the best rooms to book, without being overwhelming.

There are also exclusive benefits for members like gifts on arrival, or late checkouts, and a 24/7 booking service.

Pros: The standard of hotels is consistently high, so much so that the brand has become a trusted stamp of quality. The booking service and post-sales support is efficient yet very personable, and hotel staff genuinely care about ‘Smith’ customers so you feel very welcome when you arrive.

Cons: They have limited or no options in many destinations. They also can’t match the benefits of the OTA reward schemes like Booking.com .

When to use: The site is great if this is your style of hotel, and you want to be looked after at every step. Limited coverage is only an issue if you are dead set on a destination. If you’re not really that bothered where you go, or at least are open to suggestions, check this excellent site first.

Website : https://www.mrandmrssmith.com/

Secret Escapes

A members-only hotel booking website that offers exclusive deals and discounts on luxury hotels and vacations around the world. The site negotiates special rates with hotels and resorts, available to their members only.

Pros: There some great deals and genuine exclusive discounts to be had, though max discount tends to be 30% (and average of 15%-20%), but still not to be sniffed at. They also do a good job of curation, so you know you’re getting a decent hotel.

Cons: You still need to compare prices to other sites like Booking.com and the hotel’s own website, as there are lots of sneaky tricks and breaking of agreements that going on behind the scenes and you never really know where the best deal is until you check.

When to use: if you know where you want to go, it’s well worth checking in for a deal.

Website : https://www.secretescapes.com/

Small Luxury Hotels of the World

This website has personally visited, verified and vetted every single one of its 520 hotels in more than 90 countries. The criteria for inclusions I small (<50 rooms, non-chain and offering the highest standards of luxury and service.

Pros: it’s an exceptional collection of outstanding hotels, and the brand guarantees a high-quality, luxury stay. Members get 10% off and extra (tiered) benefits like upgrades and late checkouts. Hotels welcome their members with open arms, as they usually spend well, and SMH look after their customers.

Cons: things this good come with a price tag. Many hotels are out of reach of most travellers’ budgets.

When to use: if you’re a discerning, occasionally demanding, traveller, that specifically wants a smaller hotel, this is a great place to start your search. Check other websites though for better prices – even with the 10% off – but if you’re not that price sensitive, it’s nice to book with someone who cares, as opposed to a hotel production line like Booking.com.

Website : https://slh.com/

Tablet Hotels

This New York-based brand, founded in 2000 and well-known across the US, has curated over 3,500 boutique & luxury properties around the world. In 2018, it was purchased by and merged with Michelin.

Similar to Mr & Mrs Smith, they curate a selection based on criteria, offer a full booking service, and exclusive benefits for ‘Tablet Plus’ members like VIP upgrades and free valet parking.

Pros: the curated selection guarantees a measure of quality, and some of the VIP benefits are really nice ones to have and make you feel a bit special.

Cons: You inevitably will pay more than on other sites, and sometimes they overpromise and underdeliver on the VIP experience – much depends on the attitude of the hotel. The criteria for selection is much broader than a Mr & Mrs Smith, so you’re not getting that real consistency of accommodation, and the personal relationship that Smith has with its properties.

When to use: If you want to feel like a VIP and value those benefits over saving a few pennies or cents, then they are worth a look.

Website : https://www.tablethotels.com/

3.3 Home rentals & stays

Launched in 2008 and needing no introduction, this global accommodation powerhouse forever altered the holiday market. Now with more than 300,000 listings in over 190 countries, it has expanded from its original core offering of ‘spare rooms to rent’ to include apartments, treehouses, villas – whatever you can stay in, it’s likely to be on AirBnB.

Pros: the sheer number of options and global coverage means you’re highly likely to find something you want. The site is simple and easy to use, with lots of photographs, user reviews and star ratings.

Cons: The product and website is great, but they don’t really care about customers, and customer service if something goes wrong can be challenging to find.

When to use: whenever you’re looking for something other than a hotel, and/or something more authentic or with a local feel. It’s especially good for families and groups wanting to stay together in one place.

Website : https://www.airbnb.com

Couchsurfing

This global hospitality exchange enables you to stay with a host for free for a few nights – be it sofa or, if you’re lucky, a bed. You simply create a profile, search for hosts, and request to stay with them. Surprisingly, perhaps, it works, and over the years the site has built a loyal following and a strong community of ‘couchsurfers’ who help and support each other, and even organise events around the world.

When to use it: When budget is tight and you just really want somewhere to crash, and/or you’re looking to connect with other travellers and the local community.

Website : https://www.couchsurfing.com/

This upscale holiday home and apartment rental specialist has a large catalogue of privately-owned places to stay, which you can filter by key criteria like price, location, number of bedrooms etc. Each listing is vetted by their team to ensure it meet minimum standards. It’s owned by the Expedia Group.

The quality of homes for rent is exceptional and varied, from lake houses to treehouses, and the search and filtering makes it quick and simple to find something that suits. Customer service is good, much better than AirBnB for example.

Website : https://www.vrbo.com/

Villas of Distinction

Villas of Distinction is a luxury villa rental company that offers an extensive portfolio of properties in over 50 destinations worldwide. They provide personalized service to help clients select the perfect villa for their vacation, and offer a range of amenities such as private pools, chefs, and concierge services to enhance the guest experience.

When to use it: When you’re looking for an independent, self-catering stay in an uber-luxurious villa. It’s top-end, with a price tag to match.

Honourable mention: One Fine Stay offers a similar service.

Website : https://www.villasofdistinction.com/

3.4 Campsites & Hostels

HostelWorld

The hostel specialist is the go-to place for booking budget accommodation in over 170 countries – both dormitory beds and private rooms. The website and mobile app allow you to browse and book from a wide range of hostels, hotels, and guesthouses, with a focus on affordable and social options. There are also offers travel guides, reviews, and a loyalty program for frequent users.

Pros: The UX is really smooth, the inventory (number of options) is much is larger than on the major hotel search engines (OTAs), and it does a much better job of setting out dormitory bed pricing and deal options. There are a number of ‘community’ features that encourage you to connect with fellow travellers.

When to use it: If you’re on a budget or want to meet people when you’re travelling, start here with your accommodation search.

Website : https://www.hostelworld.com/

If you’re looking for something off-grid, preferably unique and unusual – but don’t want to compromise too much on luxury, this website is for you. It’s a directory of for luxury campsites and stays, with various accommodation options ranging from tents to tipis, log cabins to vintage caravans. Coverage is mainly Europe & UK, though they have plans to expand beyond.

Website : https://campaglam.com/

3.5 Price comparison

Concept: This Expedia-owned hotel search engine allows you to compare prices from various booking sites for over 1.8 million hotels in more than 190 countries. You can search & filter to discover hotels matching your criteria, then each hotel listing shows the price of a room on the various OTA sites. The site also offers user reviews, ratings, and filters to help you decide.

For all aggregators, the prices are often inaccurate, and not the cheapest option when you click through. The OTAs (like Expedia, Booking.com) have learned over the years how to manipulate them to ensure their listing comes up first with the cheapest price.

When to use it: It’s a good place to start your hotel search, especially when you have specific requirements such that you can use the on-site filters to narrow down the options quickly. If you discover a hotel you want somewhere else, always come and check the prices here before booking.

Note – it doesn’t always include the hotel direct price (so make sure you check separately), and sometimes the prices are inaccurate when you click through.

Honourable mentions: HotelsCombined , owned by Booking.com and the main rival to Trivago, is known for having better deals as they search lesser-known booking sites (though that can come with risks). Both I suspect of bias, however, in pushing Booking.com and Expedia products. Skyscanner also now offers accommodation price comparison, and they have the advantage of being independent and unbiased of the leading OTAs. Kayak also offers price comparison – but they are owned by Booking.com too. I prefer Trvago above the rest purely because they also helpfully show you show the lowest price depending on the ‘deal’ type i.e. cancellable or non, including breakfast etc. which obviously makes a big difference to the ‘cheapest’ price.

Website : https://www.trivago.com

3.6 Accommodation booking

Booking.com

The world’s largest accommodation online booking service that lists over 28 million hotels (and now rentals, B&Bs and hostels) from around the world. They offer a tiered loyalty program called ‘Genius’ The three levels offer 10%, 15%, and 20% discounts (respectively) on bookings at hundreds of thousands of participating locations. They also include priority customer service help, and free breakfast packages or room upgrades when possible.

Pros: The website is easy to use, with excellent filter options, and once you have created an account, you can book within a few clicks. Their inventory is phenomenal, with most hotels in the world signed up. The loyalty program is accessible and with great benefits.

Cons: The loyalty program only applies for a limited number of participating hotels, so you won’t always get the benefits. Hotel websites often still have a better deal, and some don’t release all of their room types to Booking.com so you can’t see these rooms.

Booking.com may also confusingly say ‘sold out’ when there are rooms available still on the hotel website. So always check the hotel website before booking.

When to use it: Start your accommodation search here, and then once you’ve narrowed down the options with the filters, check other sites and the hotel website for a better deal.

Honourable mention: Agoda is essentially a carbon copy of Booking.com – they are owned by the Bookings Holdings Group. Agoda has it’s roots in Asia, and is based in Singapore, so it has more comprehensive Asian content. If that’s where you’re going, it’s worth using.

Website : https://www.booking.com

Concept: same as for Booking.com, with a similar tiered loyalty program, though at time of writing, the tiered benefits are not lifetime like they are with Booking.com. You need to be a regular customer to benefit from the higher tiers – not the case with Booking.com.

Their famous loyalty program of stay 10 times, earn one free reward night – now the basic tier – requires you to book at least once every 12 months or your reward night expires.

Honourable mention: Expedia is essentially a carbon copy of Hotels.com. They’re owned by the same group, and effectively have the same hotel inventory and pricing. There are slight differences in the reward program – I think Hotels.com’s one is better, hence why they got the nudge.

Website : https://hotels.com

HotelTonight

Owned by AirBnB , this mobile app and website offers last-minute hotel rooms at discounted rates. Inventory ranges from budget to luxury, and you can use the filters to specify your location and preferences. There’s also a ‘Rate Drop’ feature that discounts same-day prices after 3pm.

When to use: if you need a last-minute room, it’s definitely worth checking for a deal. However, in my experience, their deals weren’t especially good compared to other standard booking sites – though the ‘Rate Drop’ does deliver discounts.

Website : https://www.hoteltonight.com/

Food, drink & entertainment

4.1 food & drink.

A food and dining news website that provides reviews, guides, and information on restaurants and food trends in various cities across the world. The site offers articles on topics such as dining culture, chefs, industry news, and more. They also feature videos and podcasts related to food and restaurants. The quality of content and recommendations is excellent, and they’ve regularly won awards to their food & wine journalism.

When to use it: Officially it only spans 23 US cities, and if that’s where you’re headed, it’s a good place to check. However, that’s for detailed coverage. For most cities, however, they have a round-up of ‘the best restaurants in X’, covering all price ranges. Just search for it on their site.

Website : https://eater.com

Foodie blogs

Local foodies blog about anything from food trucks to Michelin-starred restaurants. In any destination, especially cities, the food scene changes so fast that almost any corporate website will not keep up. Local foodies are out testing daily, and take pride in keeping their blogs up to date with the latest and greatest. They also cover the smaller, more niche places that only a local would know about.

There are too many to mention, but search for ‘food blogs in X’ by Googling (or Binging) and see who you can find.

When to use: When you want to discover some insider foodie experiences in a destination, and get some good restaurant tips that are not Michelin-starred.

Concept: Increasingly the go-to resource for vegan and vegetarian dining around the world, run by vegans, as the popularity of the movement continues to gather a welcome pace and momentum. The site is also becoming a thriving community hub, with active forums and listings of fellow vegans in local cities that you can message for tips.

When to use it: to discover the best vegan and vegetarian dining options in your destination, or to get tips/advice from the local community.

Website : https://www.happycow.net/

This stalwart former magazine is still the place to go in the digital era for local listings of ‘what’s on’. It provides comprehensive listings, information and reviews on cultural events, concerts, theatre performances, film screenings, and other entertainment in cities around the world.

When to use it: If you’re wanting to book in some entertainment on your trip, this is the best place to start looking.

Website : https://www.timeout.com/

Yelp is a platform that allows you to search for and review local businesses, including restaurants, bars, shops, and other services in 220 cities in 32 countries . It’s best known for restaurant reviews, however – some of the other business listings can be fairly light. As with all review sites, it suffers from fake reviews,  but the volume is sufficient to give you an overall sense of what’s worth a try.

How to use it: I use it to draft a short list of places to try, then cross-check that with other sources and/or my hotel if I’m staying in one. Concierges will give good restaurant tips, but in my experience, the options they give are limited.

Website : https://www.yelp.com

Before you go

Centre for Disease Control

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is a national public health institute in the United States. The website provides comprehensive information and resources on health and safety topics, including infectious diseases, vaccines, travel health, environmental health, emergency preparedness, and more.

When to use it: before you go to a new destination, stop here to check any disease risks and vaccination requirements (you can search by country from the home page). It also has helpful advice for people with special health conditions , and/or doing specialist activities.

Website : https://www.cdc.gov/

5.2 What to take

This global online store is a specialist in all things travel accessories, with over 200 products covering everything from adapters, to travel pillows and luggage security.

How to use it: have a skim before you go. I always end up seeing/buying things I never even knew I needed!

Website : https://go.travel

Packing List Checklist App

A handy app to create packing checklists – a godsend for people like me who always forget their sunglasses. A plethora of packing list apps, I like and use this one before it’s simple, quick – and free. No upgrades needed.

You manually create your own list(s) – you can create multiple different ones, for different holiday types for example – then select from a list of a fairly comprehensive list of suggested items to start you off. Most of the time that will do it, though you can add your own if needed. When it comes to packing, you can tick things off as and when they’re in the case.

How to use it: Next time you get a few free moments, create a packing list. Add to it as and when things pop into your head. Tick them off when you pack.

Website : https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/packing-list-checklist/id1235121075

5.3 Travel planning

TripIt is another travel organising app that allows you to store all of your travel plans in one place. Users can forward their confirmation emails for flights, hotels, and rental cars to the app, which will then create a master itinerary for their trip. The app also provides real-time flight alerts, directions, and travel recommendations.

Website : https://www.tripit.com/web

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BUSINESS STRATEGIES

14 best travel and tourism websites to inspire your own

• Kylie Goldstein

While the pandemic affected many industries, it irrevocably changed the travel and tourism sector. As the World Economic Forum reports , “In 2020 alone, the [tourism] sector lost $4.5 trillion and 62 million jobs, impacting the living standards and well-being of communities across the globe. Moreover, the halt in international travel gave both leisure and business travelers the chance to consider the impact of their choices on the climate and environment.”

That being said, airline ticket prices are starting to rise again and airports are struggling to keep up with demand. Furthermore, amid current economic and environmental shifts, more travelers are seeking sustainable tourism options—and the industry has begun to adapt.

Whether you’re new to tourism—curating local experiences or renting out your home—or a travel veteran who has weathered the storm of tourism woes, there’s no better time to create a website for your tourism and travel types of businesses - its the perfect service business idea . We’ve compiled a list of some of the best travel websites, plus a few tips on what to include on your own.

Read Also: How to start a business

What is a tourism and travel website?

The tourism and travel industry has become more accessible than ever. The internet has made it easier to research, plan and book trips, all with just a few clicks. You can find everything from flights, hotels, and restaurants to car rentals and local experiences online.

A tourism or travel website serves as an information hub for prospective travelers planning a getaway. Today, people travel for a range of experiences—babymoons, staycations, voluntourism or bleisure—you name it. So, provide as much relevant information as possible to help users plan their trips.

When creating a travel website, entice travelers with blogs or video content that offers insider tips and local secrets. You can discuss practical information like local currency, customs and expectations, or review or rating popular destinations. You can also supply average local prices for travel necessities, offer tips for transportation or even add a Google Map of your favorite spots.

Tip: You can understand how to plan your website , then make your hotel website with Wix, complete with ready-made travel and tourism templates .

Best travel website examples

Let’s explore a range of tourism website examples, all built with Wix:

Inward Travel

Tourism Richmond Hill

Echo Fitness

African Empire Tours

Champlain Tours

Bella Vista

Home Sweet Home

Immanuel Wilderness Lodge

Sea Breeze Panormos

Jon's Carmel Marketing Cooking Class and Food Tour

The Berlin Storyteller

All Inclusive Vacations

Twende Zetu Kilimanjaro

01. Inward Travel

Creator Noå runs Inward Travel to “take the opportunity of lifelong learning, to improve quality of life and performance by consciousness and exercise.” The company curates unique cold water experiences, sweat-dripping-exercises and leadership trails in destinations like The Netherlands.

Inward Travel’s minimal one-page website highlights the relevant information clearly and concisely. The enticing video strip in the first fold of the website instantly paints a picture of the experiences offered. The simple color palette aligns with the brand messaging and the site effectively uses his logo, including the favicon.

02. Tourism Richmond Hill

Canadian-based Tourism Richmond Hill’s informative website includes thorough details for both locals and visitors alike, paired with eye-catching visuals and clear language. A clear menu leads users to navigation options like ‘restaurants around town,’ ‘where to stay,’ ‘things to do, and ‘useful links’. Additionally, their ‘Shop Local, Support Your Community,’ section expands their potential visitor pool, encouraging residents to treat their hometown like a tourist destination.

03. Echo Fitness

Don’t let the name fool you, Echo offers much more than just a fitness website . The homepage gives a brief description of all of Echo Fitness’s services, including active holidays, fitness retreats, personal training and ski instruction—all based in Zermatt, Switzerland—with clear CTAs to learn more. Each section includes a thorough description, complete with sample itineraries of previous trips or retreats. The travel website also gives a clear breakdown of plans and pricing, with a clear Book Now button for easy requests. Echo Fitness’s social media bar also includes a link to TripAdvisor, using this external platform to establish trust from previous travelers’ reviews.

Learn more: Travel business names

04. African Empire Tours

African Empire Tours immerses travelers in the culture, architecture and natural splendor of Asante, Kongo, Songhair, Zulu and Ethiopia. The tourism website clearly outlines the five tour destinations and gives a clear itinerary example.

African Empire Tours also smartly includes a clear Subscribe form above their contact information to engage with prospective travelers in the research/deciding phase of trip planning. Adding a subscribe form can help you keep visitors up to date on your business offerings.

05. Champlain Tours

Champlain Tours puts their pre-arranged group and customizable private tour options front and center, so prospective visitors can easily find what they want. They also include links to their social media profiles, including their YouTube channel which showcases video content of what visitors can expect when on tour with the company. They also prominently display previous travelers’ customer reviews as social proof to establish trust.

06. Japan Time

Japan Time’s Tom and Stav share their first-hand experiences with a range of thoughtful blogs, guides and tips for other travelers looking to make the most out of their experience. They break down the essentials like travel budget, transportation, food as well as holidays and cultural traditions in the land of the rising sun. The travel site also includes experiential tours like a “Culinary evening in Osaka” or “Ikebana techniques” that visitors can directly book online.

07. Bella Vista

Ciao Bella—arriving at Bella Vista’s vacation website offers an instant escape into the Sicilian countryside. Parallax scrolling brings the hotel to life; from a close up shot of a mouth-watering cannoli to the gorgeous view their property boasts, visitors will want to book a vacation and sign up for Italian lessons, too. This is one of the best hotel websites we've come across, as the captivating photos take you on a beautiful Italian getaway.

08. Home Sweet Home

Sometimes when vacation planning, you want a home away from home rather than a big to-do. Well, at France’s Home Sweet Home, you can choose from three uniquely styled rooms fit for comfort, relaxation and fun. Take a closer look at the photo gallery for every room and start to feel that vacation vibe seep in. Our favorite part? Their on-site private spa services.

09. Immanuel Wilderness Lodge

For those seeking adventure, consider Immanuel Wilderness Lodge, located in the Namibian Savannah. This family-run lodge has earned a collection of rave reviews and well-deserved TripAdvisor awards. For those who prefer to know exactly what to expect before arriving, their amazing 360° virtual tours show off their accommodations, lobby, restaurant and surrounding property.

10. Sea Breeze Panormos

Is there anything more exotic than a Greek vacation? After browsing their travel website, you’ll know why the four properties comprising Sea Breeze of Mykonos offer a quintessential vacation spot. Look at the romantic views, pristine accommodations and learn about what this magical island offers.

Using a teal Book Now button pops out amid the muted gray background, helping users know exactly what to do upon entering the site.

11. Jon’s Carmel Market Cooking Class and Food Tour

Almost any traveler to Tel Aviv knows that a visit to the Carmel Market is a must. Jon’s Carmel Market Cooking Class and Food Tour’s clear and direct website makes it incredibly easy for travelers to navigate through the famously bustling market. Jon, the owner, includes a short, captivating video that lets visitors know what a typical day in the market looks like. He also provides a detailed itinerary and a strategically placed CTA for Book Now.

Jon also uses a Wix pro gallery to showcase the vibrant colors and flavors of the food market. His contact information is easy to find, and includes links to all his social channels, including his TripAdvisor rating.

12. The Berlin Storyteller

Dennis Behnke, a Berlin native offers his tour services and in his own words, “Be it on foot and public transportation, be it on bike or in a van, let me help you create your perfect Berlin private tour.” His thoughtful and well-organized tourism website includes a clear list of his unique tours with detailed descriptions and lengths. Behnke has native experience and insights into the diverse city.

He includes his TripAdvisor rating directly on his homepage alongside a personalized explanation of his experiences, effectively reinforcing his brand name as the Berlin Storyteller. Working as an independent tour guide is a great service business idea. It can be a great side hustle or full-time venture if you have detailed knowledge of a city or specific destination.

13. All Inclusive Vacations

This travel website asks users a simple yet profound question upon entry—where to? For those who connect with this spark of wanderlust, there’s a relevant questionnaire to fill out and to receive a range of all-inclusive vacation packages.

This travel website also offers visitors drone video content, providing a bird-eye’s view and immersive look into each exotic getaway. In addition, All Inclusive Vacations includes their team’s photos, letting prospective travelers know who they’re talking to while planning their trips. A chatbot provides instant responses and efficiently handles incoming questions as well.

14. Twende Zetu Kilimanjaro

For hikers looking to experience iconic Mount Kilimanjaro, this travel website offers practical information including medical details, experiential knowledge, trip schedules and trail guides. Users can easily navigate the clearly laid-out information, helping them to understand the most relevant information before such an exciting hike.

What to include in a tourism and travel website

Every tourism or travel website will vary depending on the destination and target visitor. However, most travel websites should include the following:

Easy-to-use scheduling software

High-quality photography and images

Relevant information about nearby attractions—including museums, arts, cultural events, restaurants and shopping

Packing advice

Maps and directions

Public transportation information (note if users need to download apps in advance)

Air travel and airport information

Language guidelines and local slang

Clear links to social media channels

Contact information

Reviews or testimonials

An online store to buy branded or local merchandise (use an online store builder  for this)

Ready to create a blog  for your travel website?  Make one today. Or read more about how to start a travel blog .

Travel and tourism website design tips

Whether you have created a hotel website  starting from scratch or you are updating your current travel website, keep these design tips in mind.

Include a logo.  A logo can help establish consistency for your brand’s online presence. A good logo should communicate the crux of your destination, tour company or rental and help visitors make a positive association with your business before they even arrive. You can use a free logo maker  to design a logo for your travel website, plus use it for business cards, brochures, branded merchandise and social media channels.

Ensure a cohesive design.  Select a representative color palette for your brand and stick to it throughout your travel website’s visual identity. For example, if you run a natural spa getaway, stick to tranquil and calming colors over rugged and earthy tones that better match an extreme sports tour guide. With Wix’s editor's site and theme design , you can customize your website colors, fonts and images and maintain a cohesive look with automatic theme updates across your site’s pages. Also check out some of these general website examples  for inspiration.

Use images.  For prospective travelers planning their future getaways, high-quality images can immediately transport them to your destination. We recommend ​​using  JPEG ,  PNG  and GIF files for images to appear their best on your site.

Don’t overload pages.  Travel is all about the escape. Make your site’s user experience just as relaxing as traveling should be—don’t overload it with superfluous content or features. Tip:  Build your travel website with Wix website performance  at its core. Sites offer better page load speed plus Wix’s site speed dashboard  to test, analyze and optimize your site’s performance for both desktop and mobile.

Think about site hierarchy.  As visitors explore your site, you want them to receive relevant information and experience your offering efficiently. Prioritize your main pages and create menus, headers and subheaders that clearly reflect this hierarchy. Not only will this create a better user experience (and hopefully convert visitors to customers), but it will also make it easier for Google’s search engine robots to scan and index your pages.

Make it mobile friendly.  Mobile accounts for approximately half  of web traffic worldwide, meaning potentially half (or more) of visitors will explore your website via their devices. Creating a mobile-friendly travel and tourism website will ensure a better experience, regardless of device. Tip:  The Wix Editor automatically creates a mobile version for every website  it designs.

Lean into templates : Templates are a great way to create a design-friendly travel and tourism website in an efficient way. Here's a selection of our favorite travel and tourism templates from Wix: Travel services templates , Travel agency template , Food and travel website templates , Travel blog template , Travel documentary templates , Hotel and BnB website templates.

Consider SEO.  If you optimize your travel website content to rank on search engines, you can increase your traffic. How? First, target specific keywords. For example, think of your prospective travelers: what questions or phrases might they search for that could lead them to your tourism website? Integrate these keywords into your website content. Tip:  Check out Wix SEO features  or the Wix SEO hub  for more detailed steps that’ll help your travel website perform better on search engines.

Maintain your travel website . Just as you care for your hotel or tours, you need to apply the same TLC to your website. Fresh and up-to-date content (like prices and current links) can help users get the most out of their experience.

Try out new technologies.  Following the latest travel technology trends , try integrating a chat bot for quick responses and user engagement or use 3D/AR viewer  to give users a virtual tour of your destination.

Travel and tourism websites FAQ

What are some famous examples of travel websites.

There are many: Skyscanner, AirBnb, Kayak amongst others.

What are the different types of travel websites to create

Related posts.

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Tour of Do Dham - Yamunotri & Gangotri for 7 days from 10.05.22 to 16.05.22 Overall arrangements were very good. Our Darshan of both Yamunotri & Gangotri was very nice. Hotels arranged were good. Mr. MANAVENDRA of Tour My India coordinated the entire tour very nicely & he was kind enough to meet us personally at Dehradun.

Jammu and Kashmir along with Leh Ladakh

We are Tour My India's repeat customers. We just love to deal with Manvendra and we find him and his suggestions really genuine and trust worthy. We recently toured the entire of J and K along with Leh Ladakh. It is tailor made for our requirements. Manvendra ensured that the vacation stayed with in our budget. There were absolutely no hiccups and we thoroughly enjoyed the trip all along. I will definitely start planning my next trip with Tour My India guided by Manvendra.

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About incredible india.

Interesting and Intriguing, India offers incredible holiday experiences through its cultural, topography, and wildlife diversity. With these amazing and unique experiences, this south Asian country conveniently finds its way into the world tourism map as one of the finest destinations for a holistic vacation. India establishes its identity as the country of architectural masterpieces, making it an ideal travel destination to plan a heritage tour in the world. While Taj Mahal makes for the major draw on an India tour, there are a plethora of monuments and edifices in every India travel guide displaying the fine architecture and grandiose of different eras in the country.

The diverse Indian topography adorned with the impressive Himalayas; long stretches of coastline; expansive hot, cold and white salt deserts; dense forests; alpine meadows and lakes; and scenic waterfalls pique the tourists’ interest. Along with the best nature sightseeing tours, India offers an opportunity to visitors to have a little adventure of their own. The numerous spell-binding and less-trodden trails give trekking tour opportunities in South Asia unlike any other.

India Tours offers a chance to explore its biodiversity in the country's many national parks and wildlife reserves. An enthralling experience entails in the India wildlife tour packages that take tourists to the habitats of Royal Bengal Tigers, one-horned rhinos, and snow leopards amongst many rare, endangered, and unique species of flora and fauna.

India Climate & Season

India experiences a diverse climate and weather conditions due to its vast size and geographical features. The country is characterized by five main seasons: Spring, Summer, Monsoon, Autumn, and Winter. The Summer season, from April to mid-June, brings scorching temperatures, especially in the northern plains. The Monsoon, from mid-June to September, brings heavy rainfall, crucial for agriculture. Winter, from November to February, varies from mild to severe cold, with snowfall in some regions. Autumn and Spring provide pleasant weather with moderate temperatures. India's climate is influenced by the Himalayas, oceans, and geographical variations, resulting in a rich and varied weather pattern.

India's Summer season spans from April to mid-June, bringing sweltering temperatures across the country, particularly in the northern plains. During this time, the scorching heat can be intense, and people often seek refuge in cooler places or use air conditioning to beat the heat. The temperature ranges between 40–45°C.

The Monsoon season in India is a vital climatic phenomenon that occurs from mid-June to September. It brings much-needed rainfall to the subcontinent, essential for agriculture and water resources. During this season, the country experiences heavy showers and occasional thunderstorms, cooling down the scorching summer heat. The temperature range varies, but generally, it becomes more pleasant compared to the summer season. The Monsoon season plays a crucial role in shaping India's landscape and economy.

The Winter season in India spans from November to February and varies in climate across regions. In the northern parts, it can be quite cold, with temperatures dropping significantly, especially in the Himalayas where snowfall occurs. This period is a popular tourist season in India, attracting visitors to enjoy the pleasant weather and explore the snowy landscapes. Winter offers a great opportunity for various winter sports and activities, making it a favorite destination for both domestic and international tourists.

Visa Information

Obtaining a visa for India is an essential step for foreign travelers planning to visit the country. India offers various visa categories, including tourist visas, business visas, and e-visas. The tourist visa allows visitors to explore India's rich cultural heritage, historical sites, and natural beauty. The e-visa is a convenient option that allows travelers to apply for their visa online, streamlining the process and reducing the wait time. To apply for an India visa, travelers need to submit necessary documents, such as a valid passport, travel itinerary, and recent photographs. Planning ahead and adhering to the application guidelines ensure a smooth visa process for a memorable trip to India. For the latest information about getting a visa for India, visit the official website at https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/.

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From fertile terrains to barren deserts, North India is a region known for its great diversity and popular tourist places. It includes Rajasthan with its scorching temperatures, reaching extremes, and Kashmir with its hill stations and frozen lakes in the majestic Himalayas. It narrates the story of our fight for freedom through its monuments and memorials, and takes us on a journey through time with its food and architecture. North India is an ideal destination for those who travel for leisure, adventure, or to explore historical sites of the past. There is so much to discover on a North India tour. Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Chandigarh, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, Haryana, Delhi, and Uttar Pradesh constitute the northern part of India. A blend of forts, havelis, and domed structures, North India speaks for itself with its rich heritage and cultural significance. It also houses a number of holy pilgrimages of Hindu, Sikh, and Buddhist origins, such as Kashi and Ayodhya in Uttar Pradesh, the Golden Temple in Amritsar, Punjab, and Sarnath in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. The allure of the Himalayas and the enchanting beauty of North India make it a must-visit destination for travelers from all around the world.

Some of the Most Popular Tourist Destinations in North India Region are:

Uttarakhand is very famously known as "Devbhumi" or the "Land of the Gods", owing to its status as a popular pilgrimage site for Hinduism and its followers. Uttarakhand Tourism is prominently centered around its religious significance. One of the most sought-after and holy pilgrimages that devotees embark on is the "Char Dham Yatra", which involves visiting the four sacred sites located in the state: Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. These destinations hold immense spiritual importance and attract a multitude of devotees and tourists from far and wide.

Jammu & Kashmir (UT)

Ladakh (ut).

Exploring South India is an enriching experience that allows you to delve into a melting pot of diverse cultures, ranging from colonial influences to the ancient heritage of India. This vibrant region not only aims to be a haven for popular tech hubs in the country but also captivates travelers with its plethora of top visiting places, including mesmerizing hill stations and picturesque beaches. The architecture in South India is a testimony to its rich history, boasting a beautiful blend of French, British, Islamic, and Dravidian styles that add to its unique charm. The Southern part of India comprises the states of Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and the Island territories of Andaman & Nicobar and Lakshadweep. Embarking on a South India tour allows you to explore the diverse landscapes, historical landmarks, and vibrant cultures of these states.

From tranquil backwaters in Kerala to the majestic temples of Tamil Nadu, and from the bustling tech cities of Bangalore and Hyderabad to the serene beaches of Puducherry, this region offers a perfect tropical vacation for all kinds of travelers. Additionally, the thrill of engaging in water sports amidst such scenic surroundings will surely entice you to return for more unforgettable experiences. Experience the wonders of South India and create memories that will last a lifetime on your journey through this captivating region.

Some of the popular tourist destinations in Southern India for hill stations, heritage, spiritual, and beach holidays are-

Kerala, also referred to as "God's Own Country," is considered paradise on Earth and is a prime destination for India Tourism. With its beautiful coconut and palm trees, tranquil beaches, and enchanting backwaters, Kerala is where you want to be. The state is blessed with its diverse wildlife, scrumptious cuisine, classical art performances, and the practice of Ayurveda. Explore the wonders of Kerala and immerse yourself in the beauty and cultural richness that this captivating state has to offer.

Home to one of the popular hill stations, Ooty, Tamil Nadu is a beauty. Located along the Bay of Bengal, the state is best known for its temples, beaches, classical dance forms, textiles, and food. Speaking of Ooty, it is a popular tourist attraction in the state. Once serving as one of the summer headquarters of the East India Company, the area comprises various tea estates, waterfalls, and lush greenery all around.

Andaman & Nicobar Islands

Andaman & Nicobar Islands are a group of islands in the Bay of Bengal. The islands are known for their pristine beaches, clear waters, and their significant role in India's fight for freedom. Access to the islands is available through either flights or ships.

Karnataka is the land of the esteemed Vijayanagaras, blessed with history and artifacts. The state has something for everyone. Whether you are looking for a hill station to cool off, a beach to take long walks on, or maybe you are just a history buff who is enamored by the saga of the once powerful Vijayanagar Empire, Karnataka has it all.

The East & Northeast part of India tells a captivating story of its past with its rich and intricate architecture, along with its ancient caves. It is a land of diverse experiences, offering nature tourism with its abundance of wildlife, wildlife sanctuaries, and national parks. This region also serves as a celebration of multiple religions, housing some of the prominent pilgrimage sites of Buddhism, Jainism, and Hinduism. Moreover, cultural tourism thrives in this area, as the handicraft and the tribal culture distinguish this region and make it stand out from the rest. The vibrant festivals celebrated by various tribes add to the cultural richness of the East & Northeast part of India. If you're an avid traveler seeking unique experiences, consider embarking on a North East India tour, where you can explore the fascinating architecture, delve into the spiritual aspects, immerse yourself in the natural beauty, and witness the captivating tribal culture and festivities.

Some of the Popular Tourist Destinations in the East & Northeast Region of India Are:

West Bengal is a land of promising hill stations, mountains, beaches, and rich wildlife. It is home to the Royal Bengal Tigers in the Sunderbans. The state attracts a number of tourists every year who want to indulge in the natural landscapes of the region, such as the popular hill station and tea estate Darjeeling. It is one of the prominent tourist destinations, known for its lush and misty mountains, as well as the world-famous Darjeeling tea.

The eastern state of Odisha, adorned with a beautiful coastline on the east, comes alive with its rich history. It is not only a site of various monuments and inscriptions from Ancient India that attract history buffs and tourists alike, such as the Ashokan Rock Edict in the capital city of Bhubaneshwar, a site of the Archaeological Survey of India, but also a significant pilgrimage trail. Odisha tourism offers a diverse range of experiences, from exploring historical sites to embarking on a spiritual journey along its pilgrimage trail.

Home to Mount Khangchendzonga, the third highest mountain in the world, Sikkim is a state with numerous mountain ranges, valleys, glaciers, high altitude lakes, and waterfalls, making it an ideal destination for Sikkim Tourism. The state is best known for its trekking activities, monasteries, wildlife, and adventure tourism. Exploring Sikkim in Northeast India promises a thrilling and memorable experience as you immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of its natural landscapes and indulge in various exciting activities.

Meghalaya, literally meaning "dwelling of clouds," is home to Mawsynram, the wettest place on Earth. This northeastern state has abundant hills, valleys, lakes, waterfalls, and dense and sacred forests, making it a nature lover's paradise. The state is a peaceful residence of tribals belonging to the Khasi, Pnar, and the Garo community, preserving their unique cultures and traditions.

The Western part of India, known as the West India Region, is home to prominent wildlife sanctuaries and national parks. It serves as a testimony to the past with its historical sites and caves. The West also adorns a number of religious sites, such as temples and various churches constructed during the colonial period. The states and union territories of Gujarat, Maharashtra, Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Daman & Diu, and Goa make up this vibrant region of Western India, as seen on the India tourism map. With its architectural style influenced by its colonizers, the place has its story to tell, making it an intriguing destination for those visiting West India. The peaceful and beautiful beaches of these coastal territories also offer a variety of water sports for those who are up for it. Whether you are exploring the wildlife sanctuaries, diving into the history of ancient caves, or enjoying the serene beaches, West India has something special in store for every traveler.

Some of the Popular Tourist Destinations in Western India Include -

Home to the prominent freedom fighter Mahatma Gandhi, Gujarat has its own marvels to enjoy. Gujarat prides itself on having the longest coastline in India, among many other things. The state has numerous national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, with the most popular being the Gir National Park, which houses the Asiatic Lion along with various other animals like crocodiles, Chital, and leopards.

The state of Maharashtra, renowned for Maharashtra tourism, is situated in the western part of India. It is a land with beautiful mountains, rivers, and charming coastlines, making it a favorite among tourists. According to the last census, Maharashtra is the second most populous state in the country. With a myriad of tourist places to explore, Maharashtra offers a diverse range of experiences, from its bustling cities to serene hill stations, historical landmarks, and picturesque beaches. Whether you're seeking adventure, culture, or relaxation, Maharashtra has something special to offer for every traveler.

Goa, known for its vibrant tourism, is the smallest state of India, famous for its pristine beaches, delectable seafood, and lively nightlife. Beyond the coastal allure, it also boasts various temples, churches, and wildlife sanctuaries, offering a rich blend of cultural and natural attractions. Having been a Portuguese colony for about 450 years, Goa's architecture carries a distinct charm and heritage, reflecting its colonial past. As one of the most popular tourist destinations in western India, Goa attracts travelers from all around the world seeking relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences. Its beautiful beaches, coupled with a lively atmosphere, make it an ideal getaway for all types of visitors. Whether you are strolling along the sandy shores, exploring the fascinating temples and churches, or indulging in the pulsating nightlife, Goa promises a memorable and diverse experience for every traveler.

The centralmost part of India consists of the states of Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, making it a significant hub for tourism in central India. Madhya Pradesh originally was a single state until the year 2000 when Chhattisgarh was carved out from it to form a separate state. Both states hold a treasure trove of amazing historical sites, temples, waterfalls, forests, and wildlife, making them ideal destinations for tourists looking for places to visit. Filled with various tribes, the folk art, and culture in this region are reminiscent of its rich heritage, offering visitors a glimpse into its diverse and vibrant traditions. Moreover, this region of the country holds some of the prominent wildlife sanctuaries of India, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and wildlife diversity. Additionally, it is noteworthy for its important mineral mining sites, adding to the economic significance of the region. Whether you're an art and culture enthusiast, a nature lover, or an adventure seeker, central India has something special to offer for every traveler.

Madhya Pradesh, lovingly known as the "Heart of India," is a state in Central India, and it offers a delightful experience for Madhya Pradesh Tourism. The name literally means "Central State or Central Region," and it lives up to its name by being a central hub of cultural and natural attractions. Adorned with numerous wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, the state provides ample opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers to explore its diverse flora and fauna.

In addition to its natural wonders, Madhya Pradesh boasts a rich historical heritage with its collection of historical monuments. From ancient temples and majestic forts to impressive palaces and intricately carved structures, these tourist attractions take visitors on a captivating journey through the state's glorious past. With its perfect blend of nature and history, Madhya Pradesh presents a compelling destination for travelers seeking a truly enriching and memorable experience. Whether you are exploring the dense forests and wildlife reserves or marveling at the architectural wonders, Madhya Pradesh offers an enchanting and diverse range of attractions for every traveler.

The state of Chhattisgarh is considered one of the newer states of India, having been carved out of Madhya Pradesh in 2000 to become a separate state. The state prides itself on being home to forty-two tribes, contributing to its rich cultural diversity. With its abundance of rivers, waterfalls, and dense forests, Chhattisgarh makes for a perfect travel destination, offering a serene and picturesque setting for travelers to explore and enjoy.

Trekking is the way of engaging with nature at its best, isn't it? India is at the top of the world tourism map when it comes to adventurous trekking and hiking activities. The country offers some of the best locations and adventurous treks for enthusiasts. With a long belt of the Mighty Himalayan range covering North and North-eastern India, plenty of treks will put you in awe with their panoramic views and heartwarming mountain peaks. The Himalayan states of India, like Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, and Sikkim, offer some of the best trekking trails for beginners as well as professional trekkers. In fact, you will never run out of options, as each one seems more amazing than the previous.

You can start your trekking journey from the low-lying treks such as the Triund Trek and Chopta-Chandrashila Trek, which are suitable for beginners. For those seeking more challenge, there are moderate treks such as the Great Lake Trek and Har Ki Dun Trek. Furthermore, the Himalayas behold some high-altitude treks like Pin Parvati and Chadar trek, which are perfect for experienced trekkers seeking a thrilling adventure. India's diverse landscapes and majestic Himalayan ranges offer an unparalleled trekking experience, making it a dream destination for trekkers and adventure enthusiasts from around the world. Whether you are looking for breathtaking vistas or a test of endurance, India's trekking trails have something to offer for everyone.

Trekking in Uttarakhand

Trekker's paradise, Uttarakhand, stands out among all the Himalayan states in India, offering the most trekking trails that become increasingly adventurous as you move on to the next. The state boasts some of the most beautiful and scenic treks, such as Har Ki Dun and Kedarkantha, as well as pilgrimage treks like Tungnath-Chandrashila and Kedarnath trek. For extreme trek lovers, Uttarakhand also offers high-altitude treks like Roop Kund, reaching an altitude of more than 5000m.

Trekking in Himachal

Ideal for backpackers and flashpackers, Himachal Pradesh is no less than a heaven for trekking. The state has already gained high popularity among the youth and Gen Z for trekking and other adventures, as the hill stations are easily accessible and well-equipped with all facilities. Adorable mountains, adventurous terrains, and economic options are the qualities that will make Himachal Pradesh your next adventure getaway.

Trekking in Kashmir

Kashmir is an unbelievably beautiful wonderland in India, offering some of the most breathtaking scenic treks that people from around the world come to enjoy. It tops the list of many adventure travelers and trekking enthusiasts for its unparalleled and distinctive treks. Gulmarg, Sonmarg, Pahalgam, and Yusmarg are the main bases that provide treks showcasing the Kashmir valley from within and from deep within its heart.

Trekking in Ladakh

Ladakh challenges trekkers in its own unique way but rewards them with the opportunity to witness the enormous beauty of its gigantic mountains, an experience not everyone can be a part of. Although the terrain is rough, dry, demanding, and gritty, trekking enthusiasts conquer it time and again. Unlike treks in other Himalayan states, treks in Ladakh are mostly at high altitudes. While there are several short treks, there are more long and intense ones. However, the best part of all is exploring this remote location while disconnecting yourself from the rest of the world.

Trekking in Sikkim

Nestled in the might of the enormous Kanchenjunga, Sikkim boasts some truly majestic trekking routes, offering unparalleled beauty amidst nature. The trails are enveloped by lush green wildlife, occasionally granting lucky trekkers sightings of beautiful creatures like musk deer and the exotic red panda. With nearly fifteen treks to choose from in Sikkim, each one promising a unique adventure, including the mighty Kanchenjunga, never fail to enthrall and captivate trekkers, making it an unforgettable experience.

Wildlife adventure exploration is one of the top activities to embark on during an Incredible India tour. Just the thought of venturing into the wild is enough to send shivers of excitement down your spine. India is blessed with a treasure trove of wildlife, scattered throughout the nooks and corners of the country. Exploring the wondrous beauty of the wild not only captivates photographers and wildlife enthusiasts but has also become a new favorite for honeymoon couples and family travelers. In the wildlife safaris, you will have the opportunity to encounter some of the most magnificent and endangered species thriving in India, such as the Indian one-horned rhinoceros, Barasingha, and Royal Bengal Tiger. Nature and wildlife lovers, as well as photographers from across the globe, find themselves drawn to India's exotic yet thrilling national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, where they can have their next extraordinary encounter with nature and the wild.

The Rajasthani royal dignity, Ranthambore National Park , is an excellent wildlife destination for safaris, wildlife experiences, and, of course, spotting the Bengal Tigers. The park boasts a good density of these big cats, but spotting one wandering around is still a matter of luck. Ranthambore is also home to many other species of flora and fauna

Kanha National Park , in case you didn't know, was the jungle that inspired the famous novel "The Jungle Book" by Rudyard Kipling. This renowned national park in Madhya Pradesh is well-known for its diverse wildlife, featuring many special attractions such as Barasingha, Panther, Blackbuck, Chital, Sambar, and Barking deer, yet your eyes won't stop seeking Bengal Tigers. Fortunately, there is a fair chance of spotting tigers here, as the park has a high density of almost 7 tigers per 100 sq. km.

"You are lucky if you spot tigers, but unlucky if not in Jim Corbett National Park." On the bucket list of many, Jim Corbett National Park is one of the oldest and well-known national parks in India. A perfect paradise for wildlife and nature lovers, the park is blessed by mother nature and offers great chances for tiger sightings. Along with the highest number of tigers, the park also boasts beautiful landscapes and is home to many other remarkable species, such as sloth bears, Asiatic black bears, jungle cats, elephants, wild boars, chitals (spotted deer), barking deer, and nilgai (Indian antelope).

Bandhavgarh National Park , with a gigantic area spanning 1500 sq. kilometers, is perpetually a remarkable forest in the heart of India, Madhya Pradesh. This vast forest is filled with small and large animals, each with its own captivating tales. The majestic sounds of nature and the wild speaking of its existence will amaze you while being in Bandhavgarh National Park. You will find plenty of wild animals in the vicinity, including Leopards, Sambar, Barking Deer, Wild Boar, Gaur, Chausingha, and Chinkara, as well as the Asiatic jackal, Bengal fox, striped hyena, jungle cat, leopard, and the Bengal tiger.

A feeling of thrill upon entering the gates, a sense of connection while driving through the forest and encountering wild creatures, and the captivating experience of spotting tigers are what make your trip to Tadoba National Park truly memorable. Located in central India, Tadoba National Park boasts thriving wildlife, offering abundant sightings of animals such as leopards, Jungle Cats, Sloth bears, Sambars, Spotted deer, and around 190 species of birds.

An exhilarating adventure for thrill-seekers and a daring challenge for their friends, river rafting is one of the top things to do in India's adventure tourism. It's an amazing way to connect with nature and experience its glorious ways. India, featured on the top of world adventure tourism map, is home to a plethora of rivers flowing down great mountain alleys, carving heart-pounding courses of ups and downs, rapids, and falls in their streams. Once aboard a raft, no one looks back or loosens their grip on the paddles, as the rafting adventure takes them through an adrenaline-pumping ride. White water rafting in India has gained popularity among tourists as a safe adventure sport, suitable for both newbies and expert rafters. While Rishikesh remains the most popular destination for rafting enthusiasts, there are countless other spots spread across the expansive Himalayan states, each offering its own unique and thrilling experience. So, for those seeking an adrenaline rush and a chance to embrace the raw power of nature, river rafting in India promises an unforgettable and exhilarating journey, making it a must-try adventure in the country's diverse tourism offerings.

River Rafting Uttarakhand

The city of sages, spirituality, and serenity, Rishikesh, known as "The Yoga capital of the world," is one of the most popular destinations for adventure lovers in Uttarakhand. River rafting along the rapid flow of the Ganga River makes it a thrilling and unforgettable experience. Other places to experience river rafting in Uttarakhand include Devprayag, Rudraprayag, Mori, Chakrata, and Chamoli. Each of these locations offers different levels of rapids, with Rishikesh having the most extreme level of rapids up to level V. On the other hand, the other locations mostly have rapids ranging from level I to III, making them highly enjoyable for beginners and families.

River Rafting in Himachal

Himachal is among the most suitable locations for river rafting after Uttarakhand. With many rivers originating from Himachal Pradesh, the state offers some popular rafting circuits that attract adventure tourists. The most sought-after rafting courses are found on the four rivers, including the mighty Beas River, Chenab, Ravi, and Satluj, located in Kullu & Manali, Lahaul, Chamba, and Shimla. Most of the rapids here are between levels I and III in difficulty, making them ideal for inexperienced rafters and families.

River Rafting in Sikkim

Sikkim offers rafting courses on two rivers, the Teesta and Rangit. While the river Rangit has some extreme rapids and drops in the course, it is highly pursued by highly enthusiastic adventurers who are experts in white water rafting. On the other hand, the River Teesta has rapids ranging from easy to intense, making it compatible with families and those with intermediate rafting experience. Moreover, the rafting circuits pass through scenic surroundings and lush green forests, making it a perfect spot for adventure enthusiasts who love nature.

River Rafting in Arunachal

Arunachal, along with being an excellent place for nature and sightseeing lovers, is also a great destination for adventure buffs due to its stunning rafting courses. One of the most thrilling experiences is river rafting in the mighty Brahmaputra River and its tributaries. Rafting in Arunachal Pradesh takes you through some isolated areas and offers wonderful views amidst forests, presenting a number of challenges such as drops, rapids, and riffles.

River Rafting in Ladakh

Ladakh, a landscape paradise nestled in the mountains of India, offers great river rafting experiences in the Indus and Zanskar rivers. Famous among adventure enthusiasts, Ladakh has intermediate to intense levels of rafting courses to cater to different experience levels. While enjoying the thrill of rafting, make sure not to get too distracted by the enormously beautiful scenes of the mountains surrounding you. Stay focused and enjoy the exhilarating ride!

Another top activity for Incredible India explorers is nature sightseeing. Escaping the course of regular life and immersing oneself in the enormous beauty of nature and its breathtaking sights is something no one would say no to. Nature sightseeing in the Indian hill stations has captured the hearts of tourists from around the globe. The majestic Great Himalayas never fail to catch the eye of every passer-by. From Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh to Kashmir, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, and other regions across North to South, East to West, there are some of the most preferable locations to experience the pleasing topography of nature. It's not just the mountains, but also the incredible natural diversity that makes the environment irresistible, enticing people to come back again and again.

Uttarakhand Hill Stations

In the meadow of the Great Himalayas, lies the enormous beauty of Uttarakhand, showcased by its captivating hill stations. Uttarakhand is loved by adventure and nature tourism enthusiasts for the thrilling experiences it offers amidst the tranquil environment - quite quirky, isn't it? The state is spread from the foothills of the Himalayas to the high summits of the mountains, offering a diverse range of landscapes. From Rishikesh, the low-lying adventure hub, to the stunning topography of Auli, Uttarakhand is home to many adorable hill stations that cater to various preferences and interests. Whether you seek thrilling adventures or seek solace in the lap of nature, Uttarakhand's hill stations have something special to offer.

Himachal Hill Stations

Himachal Pradesh has been playing the role of a summer healer for the people of the North Indian plains for a long time, spreading its charisma and calming their minds from their daily hustle. The state is home to plenty of beautiful hill stations, aboding quaint and scenic towns with pleasant landscapes. Peaking to the Himalayan peaks all the time, Himachal Pradesh, along with being the "easiest to access" of all Himalayan states, has more than many reasons to be next on your list of destinations to visit.

Kashmir Hill Stations

Nothing needs to be proven when it comes to Kashmir. It is one of the most praised locations for mountain lovers, often referred to as the "Switzerland of India," gathering travel buffs from around the globe. The beauty that is often seen in pictures can be witnessed firsthand in the adorable hill stations of Kashmir. Sonmarg, Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Srinagar, Yusmarg, and many more hill stations will leave you in awe with their stunning vistas and natural charm.

Sikkim Hill Stations

To the peaks of the Himalayas and the forests of the Western Ghats, Sikkim boasts an enormous collection of beautiful experiences within its picturesque boundaries. Sikkim's hill stations are captivating, offering a blend of stunning mountain ranges, murmuring water streams, lakes reflecting the sunshine, and cascading forests. Sikkim looks at its best throughout the year, and some of the popular hill stations here include Pelling, Gangtok, Aritar, Lachen, Namchi, Mangan, and more.

Arunachal Hill Stations

The untouched beauty of Arunachal Pradesh is a landscape that showcases great wildlife amid the enormous beauty of the mountains. It is the perfect place to experience mother nature at its best, as Arunachal Pradesh Hill Stations lie on the eastern edge of the country. The once-anticipated and challenging terrain now boasts accessibility to every nook and corner of the state. Hill stations in Arunachal Pradesh, providing the essence of the "Land of the Dawn," include Tawang, Bomdila, Itanagar, and Pasighat.

India comes as one of the most promising countries when it comes to heritage tours. Heritage tourism is an important element of Incredible India's top things to explore in its tourism campaign to attract both international and domestic travelers. From the majestic Taj Mahal to the intricate carvings of ancient temples, India's cultural and historical tourism sights serve as a feast for heritage and history buffs. The epics of great dynasties and rulers are evident through their architectural monuments, making everyone wonder and transporting them to the bygone era. India's long history carries the stories of each era, scattered throughout the country, memorizing the presence of old happenings on the land.

Recognized as the face of India globally, the Taj Mahal is a beautiful epitomical structure dedicated to one of the wives of the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan. This majestic art of beauty incepts the clinging feelings of every lover to reality. This incredibly redefined white beauty never runs out of tourists, as the Taj Mahal remains a main attraction for international tourists visiting India.

Ajanta & Ellora Caves

The earliest evidence of Buddhism in India, Ajanta and Ellora caves, showcases the beautiful work of the Buddha monks from around 2000 years ago. These caves are meticulously carved in the rock, displaying an amazing understanding of art and architecture that defines the culture and beliefs of ancient India on the walls of these caves.

Khajuraho Temples

The temple complex of Khajuraho is a testimony to the rich heritage of ancient India. Located in Madhya Pradesh, these 25 temples depict the culture and understanding of that time regarding prominent human life. During this heritage walk, you will witness beautifully carved sculptures throughout the temple walls, roofs, and even on the floors. All of these details in the buildings hold architectural significance and brilliance, making it an adorable heritage site.

Konark Sun Temple

At Konark Sun Temple, the language of stone surpasses the language of man. The temple is dedicated to the deity Sun and is one of the most amazing works of architectural depictions from the Kalinga Dynasty. The temple is designed in the shape of a chariot and features six horses carved on one side of the temple. It is considered one of the largest Brahmin sanctuaries and is a UNESCO world heritage site. A heritage walk to the Konark Sun Temple will amaze you and leave you in awe.

Hampi Ruins

Situated in the Vijayanagar district of Karnataka, this site is a UNESCO world heritage site. Once a part of a prosperous kingdom, it now lies in ruins; nevertheless, it remains an amazing site to witness. You can see a collection of Dravidian-style architecture temples and other structures, all displaying intricate architectural detailing and carvings that make us wonder about the artistic significance of the old days.

Renowned for its deep-rooted spirituality and diverse religious significance, India is a prime destination for spiritual souls. A plethora of sacred sites and revered temples scattered throughout the country offer profound and transformative experiences to the pilgrims. From the holy city of Varanasi, where the Ganga River is worshipped, to the yoga center of the world, Rishikesh, where people come in search of serenity and immerse themselves in devotion, India offers spiritual sanctuaries for believers of all religions. India has visiting the sacred city of Haridwar, the iconic temples of Ujjain and Puri, the Golden many religious sites to explore for Muslims, Christians, Buddhists, Jains, and Sikhs. Whether Temple of Amritsar, or the monasteries and Buddhist temples at Sarnath and Bodhgaya, India will be your place in your soul-stirring journey of devotion and spirituality.

The spiritual capital of India, Varanasi, is one of the fondest places to visit for spiritual and pilgrimage tourism. No place could compare to the inclusive beauty and serenity of this city. One of the oldest cities in India, Varanasi is also known by other popular names like Banaras and Kashi. The sounds of chanting, temples, people, and worship everywhere are what make the scene perfect in Banaras. Also, don't miss the evening Ganga Aarti on the Ganga Ghats.

The gateway to pilgrimages in India, Haridwar is one of the most visited pilgrimage sites in the country. Located on the foothills of the Himalayas, this sacred city is picture-perfect for spiritual journeys. The swiftly flowing Ganga, people making holy dips on the banks, and the markets full of religious artifacts create a natural and beautiful atmosphere in Haridwar. There are many temples to visit, but nothing should be prioritized over witnessing the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti.

The yoga capital of the world, Rishikesh, is no wonder one of the top pilgrimage destinations in India. Rishikesh used to be the place for meditation and daily yoga sessions of sages of India. The adorable Lakshman and Ram Jhula (Suspension bridges), Beatles Ashram, and Shivpuri are must-visit places here.

Situated on the banks of the holy Shipra river, Ujjain has plenty of pilgrimage sites to make up your tour. Also, being the home of one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, Mahakaleshwar, Ujjain welcomes many spiritual seekers to it. The serene and hospitable environment makes it a preferable place for some offbeat experiences in Madhya Pradesh. Similar to Varanasi, Ujjain too lets you dive into spirituality amidst the crowd of people.

Puri Odisha

One of the four holy shrines (Char Dham) of Hindus, the Shree Jagannath Temple is the main attraction of Puri. It attracts a lot of pilgrims due to its significance in the Hindu religion. Puri is also home to many other significant temples, making it a must-visit destination for a pilgrimage tour. You can explore the local culture and tradition by visiting markets and talking to the locals.

When it comes to adventure tourism, India offers a plethora of adventure activities, catering to both new and expert adventurers. India stands at the forefront of adventure tourism on the global tourism map. From the towering peaks of the Himalayas to the pristine beaches of Goa, the country provides endless opportunities for adrenaline enthusiasts. Whether it's trekking the low and high hills, exploring the mighty Himalayan peaks, experiencing breathtaking views of valleys, rafting through the streams of the Ganga, snorkeling in the Andaman Sea, or engaging in thrilling cycling tours, each activity offers captivating experiences. These activities have become increasingly popular among people in India. Whether you are a beginner in the adventure world or seeking more thrilling experiences, India has a wide array of options waiting for you to explore.

Paragliding

Why always keep looking up at the mountains when you can gaze down from the high skies while paragliding? One of the most adventurous sports out there, paragliding is a must-do activity if you want to experience something exceptional. And the best part is, it's totally safe as you'll be accompanied by an expert who ensures all safety measures are taken. Mussoorie, Manali, Bir Billing, and Sanasar are some of the best-known places to enjoy this thrilling activity.

Who glides swiftly over the ice? Definitely, you should enjoy this thrilling adventure sport while in the mountains. The snow-capped landscape and the chilly yet exhilarating winds make skiing an unforgettable experience. The best locations to try this activity are Pahalgam and Gulmarg in Kashmir, Solang, Kufri, and Rohtang Pass in Manali, and Auli in Uttarakhand.

Mountaineering

Mountaineering is becoming more and more popular and is undoubtedly one of the adrenaline-pumping sports you can enjoy in adventure tourism in India. It offers something out of the box, something worth remembering - a moment that could stay with you for a lifetime. Though the peaks are tough to conquer, enthusiasts won't give up. The best places to start your mountaineering experiences should be Manali and Sikkim as they have some low peaks suitable for beginners. For intermediate and experienced climbers, Ladakh, Nanda Devi, Garhwal, and Himachal (Kullu, Spiti & Kinnaur) are excellent choices.

How long has it been since you last rode a bicycle? Guess what, it won't be long before you start again. Cycling is a new trend in the adventure tourism world that is gaining popularity at a rapid pace. Riding with friends by your side and witnessing beautiful sights along the way is a truly memorable experience. The best part is, you are in charge and can go wherever you want. Not to mention, cycling is not only the safest but also the healthiest adventure activity. So, get ready to step on the pedal and say, "Let's Go!" Some of the tracks that you should consider for cycling through great landscapes are Chennai to Puducherry, Somnath to Diu, Coorg to Munnar, Shillong to Cherrapunji, and Manali to Leh.

Snorkelling

India is also one of the top destinations for snorkelling adventures. You got to see what is below the water's surface? Well, snorkelling is the thing you need. The amazing underwater world is just below our feet to explore. Snorkelling is swimming on the surface of the seawater at shallow depths, keeping half of the body submerged in the water. This allows us to see marine life right before our eyes. The top places to do snorkelling in India are Andaman, Lakshadweep, Goa, and Pondicherry.

Northern India, a marvellous wonderland region of India, holds some of the greatest places to explore. This region comprises the majestic Himalayas in the north, the Thar desert in the west, and the vast plains in the rest. Undoubtedly, the mountains offer rare landscapes to explore, as do the royal state of Rajasthan and the pilgrimage hub of Uttar Pradesh. A North India tour boasts a diverse culture, encompassing the most important Sikh pilgrimage site, The Golden Temple, significant Hindu pilgrimages like Char Dham, and Islamic mosques such as Jama Masjid. Northern India is adorned with the beauty of nature and culture, reflected in its vibrant array of colors.

Some of the must-visit tourist attractions on a North India tour are:

Taj Mahal - Agra, Uttar Pradesh

The more you see it, the more beautiful it looks. The Taj Mahal is undoubtedly a masterpiece dedicated to love, which continues to evoke the emotions felt by many who are in love. As a UNESCO World Heritage site and India's most famous monument, it remains a timeless place to spend time with your loved ones. It is a must-visit place in any North India travel guide.

Jaipur - The Pink City, Rajasthan

Renowned as the "Pink City" for its buildings painted in pink, Jaipur , the capital city, boasts a wealth of historic splendors. It showcases some of the finest architectural marvels from the royal era, including magnificent forts, palaces, and impeccably designed buildings that captivate the eyes. From the enchanting mornings to the golden sunsets, Jaipur turns everything into gold, resembling the mythical philosopher's stone. It is a highlight of India tourism.

Varanasi - Spiritual City on the Banks of the River Ganges, Uttar Pradesh

Varanasi , the oldest city that has preserved its ancient charm, takes you on a journey back in time. Situated along the banks of the revered Ganges River, Varanasi is known by various names such as Banaras and Kashi. It is renowned for its serenity and is home to the Jyotirlingas, a significant Hindu pilgrimage site including the Vishwanath Mandir. Witness the rituals performed on the ghats, including cremations, and experience the incredible spirituality of the place. Incredible India.

South India is a captivating region of India that offers a plethora of awe-inspiring sites for travelers. With its rich history, cultural heritage, and natural wonders, it presents an irresistible charm. The architectural marvels of South India , such as the grand temples of Tamil Nadu, the intricate carvings of Hampi in Karnataka, and the magnificent palaces of Kerala, leave visitors in awe. The region's diverse landscapes are equally mesmerizing, from the serene backwaters of Kerala to the lush tea plantations of Munnar, the breathtaking hill stations of Ooty and Kodaikanal, and the pristine beaches of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. South India spoils travelers with a variety of stunning vistas. Whether exploring ancient temples, indulging in rejuvenating Ayurvedic treatments, embarking on wildlife safaris, or simply immersing in the serenity of nature, a South India tour promises a truly remarkable travel experience that lingers in the hearts of travelers long after their journey ends.

Some of the Most Popular Tourist Places in the South India Travel Guide

Munnar - Kerala

Welcome to the picturesque hill station of munnar , nestled amidst the mist-shrouded mountains of Kerala, India. Beyond its breathtaking landscapes, Munnar offers a plethora of immersive experiences that will leave you spellbound. Embark on a tea plantation tour and delve into the fascinating world of tea production, from plucking the leaves to savoring a freshly brewed cup. Indulge in the serenity of a spice garden, where fragrant aromas infuse the air, and learn about the diverse spices that make Kerala cuisine so irresistible. Take a leisurely stroll through the vibrant local markets, engaging with friendly vendors and sampling delectable street food. Finally, surrender to the tranquility of Munnar's cascading waterfalls, where nature's symphony soothes your soul. Munnar is a sensory delight, offering unforgettable experiences at every turn. Plan your visit to Munnar in Kerala, South India for an incredible journey.

Meenakshi Temple - Madurai, Tamil Nadu

Visiting the Meenakshi Temple in Madurai , Tamil Nadu is an immersive journey into a world of divine splendor and architectural brilliance. The ornate gopurams beckon with their vibrant sculptures, leading you into a sacred realm. Inside, a labyrinth of halls and shrines adorned with intricate carvings awaits, evoking a sense of awe. The Hall of Thousand Pillars mesmerizes with its grandeur. Chants, incense, and devotional music fill the air, heightening the spiritual ambiance. This cultural hub is not only a place of worship but also a celebration of traditions and festivals. A pilgrimage to the Meenakshi Temple is an experience that nourishes the soul and leaves an indelible mark. Plan your India tour for a religious vacation and explore the rich heritage of temples in India.

Hampi - Karnataka

Welcome to Hampi , a UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled in the heart of Karnataka, India. Prepare to be transported to a bygone era as you wander through the remnants of a once-flourishing Vijayanagara Empire. Hampi's surreal landscape, dotted with majestic boulders, ancient temples, and crumbling ruins, creates a mesmerizing setting. The Virupaksha Temple, with its towering gopuram, stands as a testament to the architectural brilliance of the past. As you explore the scattered remnants of palaces, step wells, and monolithic structures, you'll feel a sense of wonder and reverence for the history and artistic marvels that unfolded here. Hampi is a captivating destination that immerses you in a captivating tapestry of heritage, spirituality, and breathtaking landscapes. Plan your Hampi South India Heritage Tour and explore the rich history and cultural treasures of India.

Tourism in Eastern India is a treasure trove of diverse and enchanting experiences that will leave any traveler spellbound. From the misty hills of Darjeeling to the vibrant culture of Kolkata, and from the pristine beauty of the Sundarbans to the spiritual aura of Puri's Jagannath Temple, this region offers something for every wanderer. The stunning landscapes of the Northeast, with its cascading waterfalls, emerald-green tea plantations, and mesmerizing valleys, beckon adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. In Meghalaya, one can explore the living root bridges and hidden caves of Cherrapunji, while in Arunachal Pradesh, the mystical town of Tawang showcases ancient monasteries and breathtaking vistas of the Eastern Himalayas. The serene beauty of Sikkim's Gangtok, with its monastic charm and panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, is a visual delight. A North East India tour allows travelers to explore the unexplored, embrace diverse cultures, and revel in the breathtaking beauty of nature. It is a journey that not only ignites the senses but also nurtures the soul, leaving a lasting impression of the region's captivating allure.

Some of the Best Places to Visit in East & Northeast India Travel Guide Itinerary-

Darjeeling - West Bengal

Darjeeling , nestled in the picturesque hills of West Bengal, offers a delightful array of sightseeing opportunities. The town is renowned for its breathtaking views of the snow-capped Kanchenjunga, the third-highest peak in the world. The iconic Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, takes visitors on a memorable journey through quaint tea gardens and charming hillside villages. The vibrant Mall Road is a bustling hub of shops, cafes, and restaurants, offering a taste of local culture and cuisine. The Japanese Peace Pagoda and the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, known for its red pandas, are popular attractions. Adventure enthusiasts can indulge in trekking, paragliding, and river rafting. Darjeeling's tea estates invite visitors to savor the world-famous Darjeeling tea, while the sunrise at Tiger Hill offers a mesmerizing spectacle. Darjeeling truly encapsulates the beauty of the Himalayas and provides an enchanting experience for all who visit. With its popularity as one of the popular tourist destinations in India, a Darjeeling West Bengal tour promises an unforgettable journey through captivating landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

Sundarbans National Park - West Bengal

The Sundarbans National Park , located in West Bengal, is one of the main wildlife attractions in East India. This exclusive and captivating destination draws visitors from around the world. As the largest mangrove forest in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the park's unique ecosystem offers a home to the majestic Royal Bengal Tiger, making it a prime tiger habitat. Exploring the dense mangrove forests on a boat safari allows visitors to witness the rich biodiversity, spot various species of birds, and even catch a glimpse of the elusive tigers. The interconnected network of waterways creates a surreal ambiance, with the serene beauty of the mangroves adding to the allure. Spending a holiday in Sundarbans National Park offers a rare opportunity to experience the mystical charm of a mangrove forest and encounter one of nature's most iconic predators. It truly is an exclusive and unforgettable place to visit.

Jagannath Temple, Odisha

The Jagannath Temple , located in Puri, Odisha, is the most visited religious attraction in Eastern India. This holy site is awe-inspiring and spiritually significant, making it truly worth a visit. Dedicated to Lord Jagannath, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, the temple holds immense religious importance for devotees. The architectural grandeur of the temple is breathtaking, with its towering spires and intricate carvings showcasing the rich heritage of Odisha's craftsmanship. The annual Rath Yatra, or Chariot Festival, attracts millions of devotees from all over the world, making it a vibrant and culturally significant event. The temple's sanctity, coupled with its vibrant festivities and religious rituals, creates an atmosphere of devotion and spirituality that leaves a lasting impact on visitors. It is not only a remarkable architectural masterpiece but also a place where one can experience the fervor of devotion and immerse themselves in the rich cultural traditions of Odisha. The Jagannath Temple in Odisha is undoubtedly one of the top 10 tourist points of interest in the state, reflecting its significance and appeal to both religious and cultural enthusiasts alike.

The western region of India holds immense significance for travelers, offering captivating tourist attractions, a blend of history, culture, and natural wonders. From the bustling streets of Mumbai to the architectural marvels of Gujarat and the serene beaches of Goa, the region offers a myriad of experiences. Mumbai, the financial and entertainment capital of India, serves as a melting pot of cultures, showcasing the vibrant spirit of the country. Gujarat, with its rich heritage, beckons travelers with magnificent palaces, stepwells, and ancient temples. Goa, known for its pristine beaches and lively nightlife, remains a favorite destination for both domestic and international travelers. The top things to do in a Western India tour include vibrant festivals like Navratri and Diwali, indulging in lip-smacking street food, and experiencing the warm hospitality of the locals. The western region of India offers an enchanting travel experience that leaves a lasting impression on visitors.

Some of the top places and attractions to visit on a West India tour are:

Mumbai, Maharashtra

Embark on a whirlwind adventure through the vibrant metropolis of Mumbai , Maharashtra, where the pulse of India beats in harmony with the rhythm of life. Feel the energy surge through your veins as you navigate the bustling streets, where a kaleidoscope of colors, sounds, and aromas engulfs your senses. Explore the historic landmarks like the iconic Gateway of India and the majestic Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, witnessing the amalgamation of colonial and contemporary architecture. Indulge your taste buds with mouthwatering street food, from spicy vada pav to delectable pav bhaji. Lose yourself in the vibrant markets of Colaba and Crawford, where treasures await at every turn. And as the sun sets, revel in the glitz and glamour of Bollywood, catching a glimpse of the stars on Marine Drive. Visiting Mumbai is an exhilarating experience that will leave an indelible imprint on your soul, a symphony of chaos and charm that defines the spirit of this extraordinary city. Mumbai, Maharashtra is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring India.

Ajanta and Ellora Caves - Maharashtra

Embarking on a journey to the ancient wonders of Ajanta and Ellora Caves in Aurangabad , Maharashtra, is akin to stepping into a mystical time capsule. As you approach these awe-inspiring rock-cut caves, a sense of anticipation and wonder will fill your heart. Inside, you will be transported to a bygone era, where masterful craftsmanship and artistic brilliance unfold before your eyes. The intricate carvings, vibrant murals, and grand sculptures will evoke a profound sense of awe and admiration. Wandering through the dimly lit chambers, you will feel a deep connection to the past, as if the stories of the gods and goddesses depicted on the walls

Goa - Beaches and Portuguese Architecture

Embark on a journey to the vibrant paradise of Goa , where sun-kissed beaches, pulsating nightlife, and a laid-back atmosphere merge to create an unforgettable experience. Feel the warm sand beneath your feet as you stroll along the pristine shores, with the rhythmic waves serenading your senses. Indulge in thrilling water sports, from surfing to parasailing, or simply bask in the glorious sunshine and soak up the tropical vibes. Explore the charming streets of Old Goa, where colonial architecture and ancient churches transport you to a bygone era. Admire the intricate details and grandeur of Portuguese-inspired buildings, a testament to Goa's rich historical heritage. Lose yourself in the narrow lanes and vibrant markets, where a blend of Indian and European influences creates a unique cultural fusion. As night falls, immerse yourself in the infectious energy of Goa's legendary parties, where music fills the air and carefree spirits come alive. Dance the night away under the starry sky, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Goa is a symphony of relaxation, adventure, and endless possibilities, leaving you with memories that will linger long after you've bid farewell to its enchanting shores. As you plan your West India travel, make sure to include beach tours in India and refer to the comprehensive West India Travel Guide for an unforgettable Goa experience.

Touring Central India, specifically Madhya Pradesh, means stepping into a distinctive world ruled by wilderness and history. This vast land, predominantly dedicated to wildlife, makes it a favorite and almost a paradise for nature, wildlife, and adventure enthusiasts, especially those who adore tigers. Moreover, the "Heart of India" holds great historical significance. It is adorned with remarkable historical structures and captivating tales that leave you wanting more. Additionally, the spiritual significance of Central India cannot be overlooked, with sacred ghats in Ujjain, the Kumbh Mela on the Shipra River, and ancient Buddhist stupas in Sanchi. Visiting Central India promises an unforgettable tourism holiday experience.

Here are some of the most recommended places to visit in the Central India travel guide:

Khajuraho Temples - Madhya Pradesh

The architecture of these 1000-year-old temples still withstands the force of nature to the fullest. This great site, spread over 20 square kilometers, will surely amaze you. Known for their temples built with marvelous architectural sense and geometrical references, they showcase intricate sculpture designs all over, including walls, pillars, and the ground. The artwork is so precise that people are unable to notice the little details made in the carvings. These temples are dedicated to the deities Shiva and Shakti, and they depict the essence of human life through their architecture. In terms of India Tourism, Khajuraho temple could be referred to as an underappreciated marvel of the ancient civilizations.

Kanha National Park - Madhya Pradesh

Kanha National Park , located in central India, is one of the most admired places for wildlife and adventure lovers. It is truly a grand paradise. The park is rich with diverse flora and fauna, and it serves as a habitat for many endangered and rarely seen animals. Additionally, it is a tiger reserve, boasting a population of over 100 Bengal Tigers within its expansive area spanning more than 2000 sq. km. Other major species that can be found here include Barasingha, Leopards, Wild boars, Bears, and Indian pythons, among others. Kanha National Park is a popular destination for wildlife tourism, attracting visitors from all over the world.

Gwalior Fort - Madhya Pradesh

The Gwalior Fort , a gigantic fortress in Gwalior, is said to have been dedicated to a sage named "Gwalipa" by King Suraj Singh, after the sage cured them of leprosy. However, beyond the legends, the fort dates back to the 6th century and has witnessed numerous attacks and wars, yet it still stands strong. Perched on an elevated hill, high above the city, Gwalior Fort provides a commanding view of all the other attractions in the vicinity. Gwalior Fort is a significant heritage tourism site, attracting visitors who are eager to explore its historical and cultural importance.

Through various dance forms, music, paintings, and literature, we are better able to learn more about the practices and beliefs of a culture. Art is just one aspect of the culture of a community. Art and culture are essential for the survival of a civilization, but they also function as a means to understand history. Talking about the country of India, it is one of the largest countries in the world, both in terms of area and population. It also has one of the most diverse mixes of cultures, which makes every region of the country stand out. The region of North India has been at the forefront of India's fight for freedom. The various states in the area, with their different topographies, bring in different variations in culture even though they are in close proximity to each other. For example, if we look at the mountainous region of Uttarakhand, Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir, and Himachal Pradesh, they create and wear traditionally woven beautiful Pankhi and Pashmina Shawls, which keep them warm during the harsh winters. Himachal is also known for its Angora wool Shawls, made from the soft coats of Angora rabbits. On the other hand, the Kota Doria fabric of Rajasthan is more suitable for the state's weather, being a light and airy material perfect for summers.

Rajasthan is also known for its puppetry art or "Kathputli," originally used for entertainment, which later became a medium to depict various socio-cultural issues as well. Rajasthan is also home to another famous fort called the Bandhavgarh Fort, infamous for being one of the haunted places in the country! Known for its display of sound and emotion, the Ragamala Paintings of the state are also highly cherished.

The philosophical practice of Yoga is said to have originated in the Himalayas, with Rishikesh in Uttarakhand widely known as the "Yoga Capital of the World." One of the prominent classical dances of India, Kathak, originated from the traveling storytellers of North India during the era of the Bhakti Movement, and includes epics and stories of Indian mythology.The earliest form of modern chess was also created during the reign of the Gupta Dynasty to help the young princes better understand military strategy. The double-edged sword of Khanda, primarily used by the Rajputs, also seemed to have been in use since the Gupta period. Along with the Khanda, the Chakram is also a weapon native to North India, made by Sikh warriors who also developed the martial art of Gatka. The practice aims to coordinate the mind and body to defend oneself and others.

This mix of arts, cultures & history in this region of the country is also visible in its monuments like the Taj Mahal, Red Fort, Qutub Minar, Agra Fort, Jantar Mantar, Golden Temple, Hawa Mahal, and memorial places such as the India Gate and the Jallianawala Bagh.

The Southern region of India is enriched from an arts, culture, and history perspective. It is home to a number of classical dances such as Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, Kathakali, and Mohiniyattam, each showcasing its own unique style and narrative. The region is also famously known for its exquisite Kancheepuram, Ikat, and the white and gold Kasavu Silk sarees, which are admired for their craftsmanship and elegance. The renowned painter Raja Ravi Varma also hails from Southern India, specifically from Kerala. His paintings are still cherished today for their display of Indian storytelling through European art and aesthetics, capturing the essence of mythological tales and cultural scenes. Originating in the 16th century in India, the Deccani style of miniature paintings grew in popularity during the Islamic reign and showcased the Persian style of art in its initial stages before Indian artists took over, resulting in a fascinating fusion of influences.

South India is also known for its various handicrafts, such as the Aranmula Metal Mirror, Coir work, Palm leaf work, Seashell carving, and the fragrant Sandalwood carving. The region is also famous for creating the Urumi Whip Sword, a unique bladed weapon designed like a whip, known for its complexity and challenge in maneuvering. It originated in the states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu and is presently used in the native martial arts of Kalaripayattu. Tamil Nadu and Kerala also celebrate prominent harvest festivals of the region, Pongal and Onam, respectively, which showcase the cultural richness and traditions of the southern states.

Being the land of Dravidian architecture, South India boasts numerous historical temples and monuments, such as the iconic Hampi of the Vijayanagar Empire in present-day Karnataka, the revered Tirupati Balaji Temple, the magnificent Ramanathaswamy Rameshwaram Temple, Vithala Temple, Suchindram Temple, and the awe-inspiring Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple. The influence of being a colonial land is also visible in the regions of Puducherry and Andaman and Nicobar Islands, which display their own French and British architectural styles of buildings. Puducherry, having been a French colony for around 158 years, still retains French as one of the spoken languages in the union territory.

Though being part of the same country, the scripts of North and South India vary immensely. Their origins in the Brahmi language caused variations along the way, as the script travelled upward from the South. Different mediums used to write the script are attributed to this difference. For example, the rounded lettering of Southern languages is due to them being written on leaves, whereas the use of cloth and birch bark as mediums allowed for the angular lettering of the North to be written more effectively.

The states of Odisha, Jharkhand, and West Bengal in the eastern part of India are among the top five states with the highest coal reserves in the country. Home to the buildings of Nalanda Mahavira, East India is a marvel with elaborate and beautiful structures such as the Mahabodhi Temple Complex in Bihar, which is a prominent site of Buddhism, built during the reign of Emperor Ashoka of the Mauryan Empire. The Konark Sun Temple of Odisha is considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Dedicated to the Sun God Surya, the temple is built as a Chariot with twenty-four wheels led by horses. East India is also known for its popular classical dance known as Odissi, along with its folk dances of Jat-Jatin and Santhali. Jat-Jatin is performed by women in the Mithila region of Bihar during the monsoon season, whereas Santhali is performed by the Santhal tribes of Jharkhand. Also famous is the Chhau dance of West Bengal. It is an open-air dance/performance with its origin in martial arts and tribal traditions. It depicts instances from epics like the Mahabharata and the Ramayana. Talking about martial arts, Odisha has its own martial art known as Paika. Chhau uses movements from this art.

Paika is a very old form of martial arts and can be compared to the Kalaripayattu of Kerala and foreign martial arts like Wushu and Judo. Bihar in East India is known for its Madhubani wall paintings as well. Originated in Mithila, it dates back to the age of the Ramayana. The themes of the paintings vary but revolve around love and fertility and include deities, sun, moon, flora, and fauna, etc. Although it is a style of wall painting, these are now painted on various mediums. Another art form of this region of the country is the Patachitra art form, known for its bold lines and strokes, and painted on a scroll to present a story. The Batik art style of West Bengal is a unique one with its usage of dyes and wax to paint a picture.

North East is home to one of the most beautiful landscapes in the country, with its mighty mountains and quaint valleys sure to charm you. Manipuri of Manipur and Sattriya of Assam are the famous classical dances belonging to the region. Assam also has the folk dance of Bihu, performed during the harvest festival under the same name, by men and women while wearing the traditional clothing of the state. Bardo Chham of Arunachal Pradesh is a dance performance where dancers wear colorful masks and represent the result of performing good deeds over evil. Cheraw, more commonly known as the Bamboo Dance of Meghalaya, is a dance where the dancers dance in a rhythmic beat played by the bamboo placed in a criss-cross formation. The state of Manipur is the originator of the Thang Ta martial art form. It is a kind of martial art based on the usage of external weapons along with the internal practice of physical control. It is more than just fighting; it includes physical control and breathing methods. Some forms of Thang Ta are ritualistic in nature and are performed at special rites such as funerals.

The North eastern region is also well-known for its crafts made of bamboo, cane, and reeds. It is also known for weaving some of the finest silks, such as the Eri, Muga, and Pat silk types. Eri silk, made in Assam, is often called "Peace silk" because of the way it is produced. It is extracted from the cocoons of moths who have already emerged, unlike other methods where the cocoons containing the pupae are boiled. In this method, no insects are killed, hence the name "Peace silk." The North East also has some wonderful and historically prominent sites, such as the Urgelling Gompa in Arunachal Pradesh. This monastery is considered important for the followers of Buddhism since it is said to be the birthplace of the 6th Dalai Lama. Manipur's Kangla Fort is also of immense significance to the people of Manipur. Kangla used to be the state's capital, a major political and religious center, and is highly regarded by the Manipuris as a major landmark in their history. Next is the Water Palace or the Neer Mahal. It is a royal palace built by the Manikya Empire from Tripura.

It is situated in the middle of the Rudrasagar Lake and is a beautiful display of Hindu and Islamic architecture. Apart from these, truly marvelous to behold are the living root bridges of Meghalaya. These bridges are made by the indigenous people of the Khasi and Jaintia tribes over centuries, using the roots of trees. They make it possible for them to travel and are helpful during the monsoon season when most rivers overflow. Prominent living root bridges in Meghalaya are the Nongriat and the Cherrapunji root bridges. These bridges are a display of the harmony between nature and people. Another fascinating concept from the Northeast is the Nghah Lou Dawr. At a distance of 65 kilometers from Aizawl, the capital city of Mizoram, there are shops called Nghah Lou Dawr. These shops sell vegetables, fruits, and regional eatables. What makes these shops special is the absence of a shopkeeper! These shops do not have a shopkeeper but have prices listed and expect the customers to pay for whatever they buy honestly. These shops are need-based, as many of the owners are farmers who do not have help to run both the farm and the shop. Despite there being no surveillance, these shops work well due to the trust the farmers have in people.

This region of the country boasts about having the longest coastline in the country, which is in Gujarat. The state of Maharashtra is famous for its celebration of Ganesh Chaturthi, a weeklong festival during which the idols of Lord Ganesha are welcomed and worshipped in homes for four to five days, after which they are immersed in a water body during the time of Visarjan. Maharashtra is also known for its high-quality Paithani Silk sarees, which give off a kaleidoscopic appearance due to their intricate weaving. The Kolhapuri chappals, a kind of footwear made out of leather, are also famous handicrafts of the State, originating from the Maharashtrian town of Kolhapur. Gujarat in western India is recognized for its Bandhani printed Fabric made using the Tie & Dye technique. Along with these, the coastal town of Diu is known for its jewelry made out of tortoise shells, which are sustainable in nature since these shells are found in abundance on the town’s shores.

Popular folk dances of the region include the Garba and Dandiya of Gujarat and Lavni of Maharashtra. Garba is a traditional folk dance performed during the festival of Navratri in honor of Goddess Durga. Garba is performed prior to the worship, and Dandiya, played with a pair of sticks, is performed after. The Maharashtrian dance of Lavni was originally considered an erotic dance and was considered derogatory. But over time, it has evolved into a performance art from what it originally was.

Western India is home to a number of monuments and historical sites with a large tourist footfall as well, such as the Gateway of India, and the Ajanta and Ellora caves. The Ajanta sculptures are a UNESCO World Heritage Site contained in caves that depict Lord Buddha’s life and Buddhist deities. The Ellora caves are famous for the intricately built Kailasa Mandir, which is a tall temple carved out of a single rock, making it a truly magnificent structure. West India also contains one of the temples of the Char Dham, The Dwarkadhish Temple dedicated to Lord Krishna. It is a multi-storied temple and is considered to be thousands of years old. Apart from temples and caves, Daman and Diu have some of the most beautiful churches built by the Portuguese during their occupation of these towns. These include the St. Paul’s Church and The Bom Jesus Basilica.

The central part of India, containing Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh, is home to the largest number of tribals in the country. The region hosts a five-day Lokrang Festival every year to honor and celebrate the rich tribal and folk traditions of the country. Although the region does not have its own classical dances, folk dances like Panthi, Maanch, Jawara, and the Matki Dance are quite popular. The state of Madhya Pradesh is famous for its fabric of Chanderi Silk, a light yet strong material made by weaving together a blend of Silk, Chanderi cotton, and Silk cotton. The region is also of importance to followers of Buddhism, due to the presence of the Sanchi Stupa and the Ashoka pillar.

The natural limestone caves of Kutumsar and the caves of Bhimbetka are also popular. The Bhimbetka caves are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and contain paintings dating back to the prehistoric age, which are considered the earliest evidence of art in South Asia. Madhya Pradesh also houses another UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is the Khajuraho Group of Monuments. Erected by the Chandella Dynasty, they carry sculptures representing the manifestation of Shiva and Shakti, the Yin and the Yang.

The states of North India are hugely varied in their topography, consisting of snow-clad mountains and blazing deserts, fertile valleys, and metropolitan cities. This variation allows for different temperatures and the existence of a variety of flora and fauna. Given such differences, the region is home to a number of cultures with their own languages, traditions, and ways of living life. They have their own rites and rituals, along with distinct ways of celebrating them. There are a number of fairs and festivals that take place in North India each year. Here are some of the must-see festivals in North India.

Bikaner Camel Festival, Rajasthan

An important part of life for the people of the Thar Desert in Rajasthan, camels are held in high regard. They are referred to as the "Ship of the Desert," making commuting through rough terrains easier. Organized by the Department of Tourism, Rajasthan, this two-day festival is held in January every year in Bikaner, Rajasthan, honoring the beauty and resilience of camels. The festival, a must-attend festival in Rajasthan , commences from the Junagarh fort with parading camels adorned with fancy necklaces, anklets, and bridles. A camel pageant is held, consisting of various games and competitions for the camels. Not just for the camels, various games are also held for the visitors, like tug-of-war and kabaddi, among others. The festival concludes with a beautiful display of fireworks lighting up the night sky, until next year.

Hemis Festival, Ladakh

The Hemis Festival is a must-visit festival in the Leh district of Ladakh during your Leh Ladakh tour. Held on the tenth day of the fifth month according to the Lunar Tibetan calendar, it honors Guru Padmasambhava, revered for popularizing Tantric Buddhism in the Himalayan region. The two-day festival, celebrated since 1730, features the vibrant Chaam dance or Mask Dance, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. Accompanied by the mesmerizing sounds of drums, cymbals, and bells, the festival holds great significance for the Buddhist and Tibetan communities of the area.

Kumbh Mela in Haridwar & Prayagraj

The Kumbh Mela is a prominent religious festival for the devotees of Hinduism. It happens every three years, rotating between four pilgrim cities situated on four sacred rivers: Haridwar on the River Ganga, Ujjain on the River Shipra, Nashik on the River Godavari, and Prayagraj on the Triveni Sangam, which is the confluence of Rivers Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati. The attendees, which include ascetic saints, sadhus, and visitors, take a dip in these holy rivers, which is believed to wash away their sins. These sites are prominent due to the legend revolving around Lord Vishnu, in which he was said to be carrying a pot of holy nectar, and four drops were spilled during a scuffle. The places where the drops spilled are these pilgrim sites and are therefore considered sacred places to attain salvation.

Jaipur Literature Festival, Rajasthan

If you are a bibliophile or a literature fanatic, the Jaipur Literature Festival is something that you must experience at least once. Started in the year 2006, the festival is a five-day affair that takes place in the beginning of the year and features talks, discussions, and interactions between authors and readers. The gathering had only around 18 speakers and about a hundred attendees when it first began, but now the Jaipur Literature Festival is considered to be one of the most important literature festivals globally, attracting people to fly to the pink city just to be a part of it. The festival includes a number of Indian as well as foreign authors. It also features musical artists and dance performances, creating a soothing ambiance and paying homage to the classical arts of India.

The south of India is as vibrant as the north when it comes to its traditions and values. Known for its beaches and backwaters, the states in this region are also known for their blend of cultures. Even after centuries, the remnants of the past still remain. A celebration of history, religion, and culture is what makes the festivals of South India memorable. Let's take a look at some of the most popular fairs & festivals celebrated in Southern India.

Nehru Trophy Boat Race, Kerala

Named after the former Prime Minister of the country, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, the Nehru Trophy Boat Race is an annual event held in the Punnamada Lake of Kuttanad, Kerala. It is a must-see festival in Kerala, held on the second Saturday in the month of August. Long snake boats rushing on the waters are the main attraction of the event. The race transforms the otherwise tranquil lake into a lively place with the fervor of the oarsmen and the cheering crowd. It was in 1952 when the former Prime Minister visited the state. He was so mesmerized by the long snake boats that he leaped onto one, disregarding his security. Later, he gifted a silver trophy shaped like one of the boats as a token of his appreciation, hence the name.

Hampi Festival, Karnataka

Organized by the government of Karnataka, the Hampi Festival or the Hampi Utsav is held annually for three days. It is a must-attend festival on South India Festival & Cultural Tour, celebrated on the ruins of the city of Hampi, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Since 1336, the start of the Vijayanagara Empire, the festival has been cherished with fervor and enthusiasm to recreate the charm of the once-mighty empire. It focuses on the prominent monuments of the city, which are lit up during this time. Various song and dance performances called the Janapada Kalavahini also take place. Another highlight is the Jumbo Savari, a procession of beautifully decorated elephants resembling the mighty military of the Vijayanagara Empire. Along with these, various competitions such as photography and rangoli making are also organized. Visitors can indulge in delicacies from the food court and enjoy puppet shows and other street performances.

The harvest festival of Pongal is an important festival in the South Indian states of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana. It is a must-attend event on the South India Festival tour. The festival is celebrated to give thanks to Lord Suryanarayan, the Hindu God of Sun and Mother Nature. It marks the beginning of the Tamil month of Thai and is a four-day-long celebration. The four days of Pongal include Bhogi Pongal, Surya Pongal, Mattu Pongal, and Kaanum Pongal. The second day, Surya Pongal, is considered to be the main day of Pongal celebrations, dedicated to the Sun God. Women wake up early to create beautiful Kolams in front of their doorsteps using rice flour and prepare the sweet dish made out of rice, milk, and jaggery, also called Pongal, as an offering to the Sun God. Another important event of Pongal is Mattu Pongal, a day dedicated to cattle such as cows, bulls, and oxen. They are washed, their horns painted and decorated, and offered Pongal. Traditional bullfights known as Jallikattu are also a special feature of this day.

Eastern India is a prominent region for the devotees of religions such as Buddhism, Jainism, and Hinduism. From Nalanda Mahavira in Bihar to the Jagannath Temple in Odisha, East India is truly a marvel to behold. It celebrates its festivals with crazy enthusiasm and passion, making it a delightful event for the attendees. The region has historic and religious significance, with its dark, interesting caves, and tranquil beaches. The northeastern part of India truly feels magical with its mist-covered mountains, lush green valleys, and raging waterfalls. Abundant with wildlife and diverse flora and fauna, this region of India is an example of sustainable living. The states here are composed of numerous tribes who proudly flaunt their culture. These tribes are what make the northeast so special, with festivities as unique and special as their own cultural practices.

The celebrations of these states are well-known among the people. Here are some of the popular festivals celebrated in the east and northeastern regions of India:

Durga Puja Festival

The festival of Durga Puja is celebrated on a large scale in the city of Kolkata, West Bengal, every year during the period of Navratri. It is a ten-day-long festival that illuminates the whole city. The idols of Goddess Durga are brought home or placed in public Pandals, which are open for visitors to seek blessings. Goddess Durga is highly revered in the state as the Mother Goddess, created by the energies of various Gods to defeat the demon Mahishasura. The festival of Navratri is celebrated in commemoration of the fight between the Goddess and the demon. The Pandals housing the idol of the Goddess are decorated based on certain themes, ranging from mythological epics to social issues. These Pandals are also known for serving delicious food to the visitors, a true testament to the city's love for their culinary delights. The ten-day festival culminates with the ritual called Visarjan, where the idol of the Goddess is immersed in the river bodies.

The Poush Mela takes place every year on the 7th day of the Bengali month of Poush. It is held in the town of Shantiniketan in the Birbhum district of West Bengal. This rural carnival celebrates the state and its culture. The fair is inaugurated with folk songs and music to kickstart the event. Various artists from Bengal perform folk and tribal dances such as Baul, Santhali, and Mundari. The fair also features numerous stalls selling fabrics and handicrafts made from jute, conch shells, etc. Moreover, it offers amazing Bengali food, including Alur Dom and Sondesh.

Hornbill Festival

Organized by the Government of Nagaland, the Hornbill Festival is an annual event. It is named after the Hornbill bird, which is featured in the tribal folklore of the state. The festival takes place at the Kisama Village in Nagaland. The major tribes of the state participate in this event and showcase their own songs, dances, and other performances. The festival beautifully depicts the tribal culture preserved by these tribes despite modernization. Besides the captivating performances, visitors can also indulge in various traditional Naga cuisines available during the festival.

Assam Tea Festival

Home to one of the major tea-producing regions of the world, Assam loves its tea. The tea festival is celebrated in Jorhat, Assam, and is promoted by the state's tourism department. During the festival, visitors can explore the nearby tea gardens and estates to learn about tea farming and even purchase some quality tea to take back home. There are various types of tea offered, including white, green, oolong, and the famous black tea of the state. Apart from these, visitors can also indulge in activities like golfing, rafting, and trying out local Assamese food. Additionally, guests are encouraged to visit the Guwahati Tea Auction Centre. So, enjoy your visit to this beautiful state in the northeast while sipping on your cup of garam chai.

The western region of India houses temples and churches of religious and historic importance. With the remnants of the past, West India has a number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as the Ajanta and Ellora caves of Maharashtra, the Dholavira caves and Rani ki Vav of Gujarat, and the St. Augustine Tower and the Basilica of Bom Jesus in Goa. Festival tourism in West India is also thriving, with the region hosting popular events, fairs, and festivals. Apart from these monuments and their history, these states also host some amazing festivals as well. The vibrant and diverse culture of West India comes alive during these festive celebrations, offering a unique opportunity for travelers to immerse themselves in the rich traditions and customs of the region. From colorful and lively processions to mesmerizing folk dances and music performances, these festivals showcase the true spirit of West India. Visitors can experience the joy and fervor of festivals like the Ganesh Chaturthi in Maharashtra, Navratri in Gujarat, and Carnival in Goa. Each festival is steeped in local beliefs and customs, making it a fascinating cultural experience. Tourists from all over the world flock to West India during these festive occasions to witness the splendor and excitement that these events bring. In addition to the religious and historical attractions, festival tourism in West India has become a major draw for travelers seeking a unique and unforgettable experience. The fusion of heritage, architecture, and vibrant festivities makes West India a must-visit destination for those looking to explore the diverse cultural tapestry of this incredible region.

Ganesh Chathurthi

The festival of Ganesh Chathurthi is a prominent celebration in the state of Maharashtra. It takes place during the Hindu month of Bhadrapada every year. The ten-day festival honors the homecoming of the Hindu God Ganesha, who is revered as an epitome of wisdom and prosperity and is often referred to as Vighnaharta, the one who clears obstacles. The festivities commence with bringing the idol of the God to homes or Pandals for public viewing and worship, which are organized in most areas. Throughout the duration of the festival, the idol is worshipped and offered food offerings or prasad. On the tenth day, the idol is carried with songs and praise and then immersed in a water body, such as the sea, river, or a well, in a ritual called the Visarjan. Pandal hopping is a common activity during this time due to the numerous Pandals set up across the state. Additionally, a special sweet known as Modak holds significance during the festival and is a popular delicacy enjoyed by many. The Ganesh Chathurthi festival brings communities together, fostering a sense of joy, devotion, and cultural unity as people come together to celebrate and seek blessings from Lord Ganesha. It is a cherished time for people in Maharashtra and is marked by colorful decorations, lively processions, and heartfelt celebrations.

The Rann Utsav is a cultural festival held every year in Kutch, Gujarat, to celebrate the natural beauty of the white desert of Rann. The Rann of Kutch is a vast salt marshy land located in the Thar desert in the western state of Gujarat. The festival showcases the cultural and folk beauty of the people of Kutch through a display of art forms, including dance and song performances, traditional handicrafts, and more, all while hosting visitors with their warm hospitality. Especially enchanting are the cultural performances held against the backdrop of the white desert under the moonlight. Paramotoring, horse and camel rides, meditation, and yoga are among some of the activities visitors can indulge in during the festival. The Rann Utsav offers a unique opportunity for travelers to experience the vibrant culture, traditional art, and rich heritage of the region. It attracts people from all over the world, providing a memorable and immersive experience in the mesmerizing landscape of the Rann of Kutch.

Sunburn Festival Goa

If you are someone who loves dancing to loud music while enjoying the view of the setting sun at a fascinating beach, then the Sunburn festival is for you. The Sunburn Festival is a three-day event held at Vagator Beach in Goa every year. It is considered to be one of the largest music festivals in Asia. This EDM (Electronic Dance Festival) fest attracts a crowd of thousands each year and features numerous Indian as well as international music artists. Sunburn creates an extravagant ambiance with its enthusiastic crowd, amazing music, and unforgettable performances, which will leave you with a plethora of memorable experiences.

This part of India not only contains historic monuments and temples but is also abundant with wildlife. Central India is culturally blessed to house the most number of tribes in the country. The state governments encourage the traditions and beliefs of the tribals and work hard to preserve their culture in this fast-moving economy. The diversity and fervor of these tribes can be observed in the way they celebrate their festivities. Some of the most popular festivals of the central region of India are:

Lokrang Festival

Home to the largest amount of tribal population in the country, Madhya Pradesh is also known for its Lokrang Festival. The festival is celebrated to honor the various tribes and their folk culture that make the state what it is. The five-day festival, held annually, is an important event in the state. It features classical and folk dances of the tribes, art and craft exhibitions, theatrical performances, and even book exhibitions showcasing books related to culture and literature. The aim of the festival is to preserve the various folk and tribal traditions of India and prevent them from going extinct.

Khajuraho Dance Festival

Held at the site of the Khajuraho group of monuments, the festival takes place annually in the state of Madhya Pradesh. This seven-day event, organized by the state's department of culture, encourages the classical arts of India by providing them with a stage amidst the glorious Khajuraho. It aims to keep alive the age-old heritage of Indian classical dance forms like Kathak, Bharatnatyam, Kuchipudi, etc. The mesmerizing performances are held on an open-air stage in front of the Chitragupta and Vishwanatha Temples of Khajuraho.

The Khajuraho Dance Festival is a captivating celebration of the rich cultural heritage of Madhya Pradesh and a testament to the artistic brilliance of Indian classical dance forms. This cultural extravaganza is a highlight of Madhya Pradesh Tourism and a must-attend event for anyone looking to experience the diverse and enchanting facets of Incredible India. Visitors from around the world gather at Khajuraho to witness the spellbinding performances and immerse themselves in the timeless beauty of these ancient dance forms in the historic backdrop of Khajuraho's magnificent temples.

North India, a region steeped in history and culture, houses numerous exceptional museums that offer deep insights into its diverse heritage. These museums in North India serve as a treasure trove for art enthusiasts, history buffs, and curious explorers, featuring collections from various periods and genres. From the iconic National Museum in Delhi, the Government Museum and Art Gallery in Chandigarh, to the Allahabad Museum in Uttar Pradesh, each repository tells its own unique story. These popular museums to see provide an engaging and enlightening experience, showcasing the rich tapestry of Indian history, art, culture, and civilization.

The National Museum, Delhi

India is known for its diverse culture and history, but it's rare to find it all encapsulated in one place. However, you can do just that at The National Museum, Delhi. Situated in the heart of the city, this museum is undeniably a destination for anyone wanting to explore the history and culture of ancient India. The museum is divided into different sections, each displaying specific types of artifacts from various eras. These artifacts are thoughtfully arranged in chronological order to illustrate the transition from early Indian civilizations such as the Harappan and Mauryan periods, through to modern India.

Visiting Hours - 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Closed on Mondays and National Holidays.

Ticket Prices - 20 Rs for Adults. 650 Rs for Foreign Nationals, which includes an audio guide.

*Please note that ticket prices are subject to change.

Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II The City Palace Museum (MSMS II Museum), Jaipur

Transformed from a palace to a museum, the Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II The City Palace Museum (MSMS II Museum) in Jaipur continues to exude its grandeur through its marvelous architecture and the inseparable remnants of the former rulers. As the descendants of the royal family still inhabit the City Palace, only the first floor has been converted into a museum for tourists. This museum now showcases the opulent relics from the royal era. Alongside the preserved architecture and Indian art, visitors can view wartime weapons including pistols with ivory handles, cannons, chain mail, and swords

Timings : 9 AM to 5 PM

Entry Fee : Rs.75 for Indians & Rs.300 for Foreigners

Himachal State Museum, Shimla

Timings : 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM

Entry Fee : Rs 20 per head for Indian citizens & Rs 50 per head for foreign citizens.

South India's rich historical and cultural tapestry finds an elegant display in its diverse museums. Home to an array of historical artifacts, cultural relics, art, and natural history, the museums in South India offer an immersive experience into the region's past and present. Must-visit destinations include the Government Museum in Chennai, known for its Bronze Gallery, and the Salar Jung Museum in Hyderabad, housing one of the largest personal collections in the world. Other popular museums to see include the Napier Museum in Thiruvananthapuram and the Visakha Museum in Visakhapatnam. Each provides unique insights into South India's heritage, making them a must for history enthusiasts and curious travelers.

Salar Jung Museum in Hyderabad

The Salar Jung Museum in Hyderabad, one of the largest museums in India, was once the personal collection of the Salar Jung family, former rulers of Hyderabad. Opened to the public in 1951, the museum houses some of the most antique artifacts from India and around the globe. The expansive area of the museum is divided into three blocks, each showcasing artifacts from different regions. The eastern block contains rare items from East and Middle Eastern countries, the western block displays antiques from Western countries, and the Indian block exhibits Indian antiquities.

Timings: Monday - Saturday (10:00 AM to 5:00 PM). Closed on Fridays.

Entry Fee: ₹20 for Children, ₹50 for adults, and ₹500 for foreign travelers. (₹50 per Camera/Smartphone)

The Government Museum(Madras Museum), Chennai

Preserving the history of Tamil Nadu, the Madras Museum, officially known as The Government Museum, is notably the second oldest museum in India, after Kolkata's Indian Museum. This museum is a treasure trove, boasting a unique collection of artifacts from the southern states. It not only houses a wealth of ancient sculptures and relics but also highlights the region's zoology and natural history.

Entry Fee: For Indian nationals - ₹10 for children and ₹15 for adults. For foreign nationals - ₹125 for children and ₹250 for adults.

The KDHP Tea Museum, Kerala

Think you know how to make tea? Test your knowledge at the KDHP Tea Museum in Kerala, nestled amidst picturesque tea gardens. The museum offers a glimpse into the bygone era of tea production and transportation, displaying wooden bathtubs, vintage furniture, and tea rollers. Visitors can also explore old technology used in tea production and see the rail engines and wheels once used for transportation. Don't forget to purchase some tea, available in various flavors, as a souvenir from the museum.

Timings: Open every day except Mondays and Good Fridays from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Entry Fee: ₹75 per person for adults and ₹35 per person for children.

Steeped in history and culture, East India offers a plethora of museums that provide a peek into the region's vibrant past and diverse heritage. These museums in East India range from the Indian Museum in Kolkata, the oldest in the country boasting vast collections of artifacts, to the unique tribal museums of Odisha showcasing indigenous art and culture. The region's museums, such as the Don Bosco Museum in Shillong or the Patna Museum, hold collections spanning natural history, archaeology, art, and ethnography. Visiting these popular museums is an enriching experience, allowing one to delve deeper into East India's multifaceted cultural tapestry.

Indian Museum, Kolkata

Strolling through the endless galleries of the Indian Museum in Kolkata, one is reminded that it is indeed the largest museum in India. It showcases a myriad of artifacts, many thousands of years old. This three-story building is distinctly divided into six sections: Art, Archaeology, Anthropology, Geology, Zoology, and Botany. Visitors can find sculptures from various historical periods and regions of India, including South India, Bengal, Bihar, and more. Understandably, many visitors may not have time to explore all the artifacts in detail, but multiple visits can help enrich the experience.

Timings: Open Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Entry Fee: For Indian adults and children - INR 75 and INR 20 respectively. For foreign travelers - INR 500.

Odisha State Museum

For those interested in delving into the culture and history of diverse regions, the Odisha State Museum is a must-visit. Boasting a vast array of artifacts, coins, sculptures, plates, stone inscriptions, tools, armor, and other historical items, this museum paints a rich tapestry of Odisha's past. Among its eleven sections, the Sculpture Gallery and the old currency and coin collection, featuring over 10,000 coins from different periods, are particularly popular with tourists. The museum also hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, offering an enriching opportunity to learn about the state's history.

Timings: Tuesday to Sunday (10 AM to 5 PM), Closed on Mondays.

Entry Fee: For Indian adults and children - INR 10 and INR 2 respectively. INR 100 for foreign travelers.

Victoria Memorial, Kolkata

Before you even enter the Victoria Memorial in Kolkata, you're captivated by the sight of the stunning white marble edifice, nestled in a 64-acre garden. The Memorial houses an extensive collection of paintings, sculptures, and artifacts from the colonial era, effectively chronicling India's historical narrative. It showcases Indian textiles, manuscripts, and royal memorabilia, which were once integral to the British Empire's courts. Each item within this grand structure tells a unique story of India's history, heritage, and art.

Timings: Tuesday-Friday (10:00 AM to 6:30 PM), Saturday and Sunday (10:00 AM to 8:00 PM). Closed on Mondays.

Entry Fee: INR 50 for Indian adults, INR 20 for Indian children, and INR 500 for foreign tourists.

West India offers an intriguing array of museums that celebrate its diverse history, rich culture, and unique artistic traditions. The museums in West India range from iconic institutions like the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya in Mumbai, known for its vast collection of artworks and artifacts, to specialized museums such as the Auto World Vintage Car Museum in Ahmedabad. Other popular museums include the Goa State Museum with its eclectic mix of cultural and historical artifacts and the Prince of Wales Museum in Mumbai. These destinations offer an immersive journey into West India's past, making them a must-visit for travelers interested in the region's heritage.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya

Admiring the beautiful Indo-Saracenic style of the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, formerly known as the Prince of Wales Museum, sets the tone for an enriching day ahead. This museum, one of the most frequented in the country, hosts approximately 50,000 exhibits spanning Art, Archaeology, and Natural History. These are spread across three sections within the museum's three-story space. Given the volume and variety of its collection, visitors often find that a couple of hours are barely enough to appreciate all that it offers.

Timings: Open every day from 10:15 AM to 6:00 PM, except on mandatory holidays in Maharashtra.

Entry Fee: ₹85 for Indian adults and ₹20 for Indian children. ₹650 for foreign adults.

The Calico Museum of Textiles, Ahmedabad

India's rich textile history finds expression in the Calico Museum in Ahmedabad. Founded by industrialist Gautam Sarabhai in 1948-49 to showcase exquisite Indian textiles, the museum features a collection of Shaminas, carpets, wall hangings, and Kashmiri shawls that took three years to make, along with a South Indian collection. Visitors can explore fabrics used by followers and rulers during the Mughal and Jain eras. The museum also displays regional arts and paintings, miniatures, religious textiles, 19th-century textiles, sculptures, temple relics, and furniture.

Timings: 10:15 AM to 12:30 PM and 2:30 PM to 4:30 PM. Closed on Mondays and public holidays.

Entry Fee: Free Entry (Pre-registration for tours is available at www.calicomuseum.org)

Museum of Goa

The Museum of Goa (MOG), a hub for artists and art lovers, excels in bringing together diverse people and art forms under one roof. This museum showcases the rich history of Goan art and culture to visitors. Furthermore, it hosts a variety of programs and events such as music concerts, plays, puppet shows, and art workshops. These interactive experiences offer participants a deeper understanding of Goan art.

Timings: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Closed on Mondays.

Entry Fee: ₹200 for Indian adults and ₹100 for Indian children. ₹300 for foreign adults and ₹150 for foreign children.

Central India, rich in historical significance and diverse cultures, boasts a variety of fascinating museums. These museums offer glimpses into the region's vibrant past, from prehistoric times to the modern era. The State Museum in Bhopal, for instance, houses a fine collection of sculptures, paintings, and artifacts reflecting the state's heritage. The Tribal Museum in the same city offers insight into the life and traditions of the indigenous tribes. In Indore, the Central Museum displays artifacts from the prehistoric period to the late medieval era. These museums in Central India form a crucial part of any cultural exploration of the region.

Central Museum, Indore

Timings: 10 AM-5 PM every day, except on Mondays and other public holidays

Entry Fee: INR 10 for Indian citizens and INR 100 for foreign travelers.

State Museum, Bhopal

Situated on Shyamla Hills, the State Museum of Bhopal is an architectural beauty in its own right. Divided into several galleries, each segment highlights a distinct aspect of Madhya Pradesh's history and culture. One of the most visited galleries is the Tribal Gallery, exhibiting the art and culture of the various tribal groups inhabiting Madhya Pradesh. The displays offer an enlightening glimpse into the richness and diversity of these cultures. Another crowd favorite is the Archaeology Gallery, home to artifacts from ancient cultures including sculptures, pottery, and jewelry, offering insights into the historical lifestyles and interactions of these societies.

Timings: Open all days except Mondays and public holidays, from 10.00 AM to 5.00 PM.

Entry Fee: INR 20 for Indian adults and INR 400 for foreign travelers. Entry is free for minors, soldiers, and people with disabilities.

State Archaeological Museum, Gwalior

Nestled within the imposing Gwalior Fort, the Gujari Mahal Archaeological Museum, also known as the State Archaeological Museum or "Gwalior Fort Museum," houses a fascinating array of sculptures, inscriptions, and artifacts dating back to ancient and medieval times. The Gwalior Fort, a historical spectacle in itself, is further enriched by the museum's presence. The museum's collection spans various periods in Gwalior's history and includes sculptures, pottery, jewelry, weapons, and armor, as well as an array of paintings and manuscripts. Among the highlights are the 9th and 10th-century Jain sculptures and the 16th and 17th-century Mughal paintings.

Timings: 10.00 AM to 5.00 PM.

Travel Information

Best Time To Visit In India

The best time to visit India for holidays depends on the type of experience you seek. The tourism season in India varies across regions due to its diverse climate. The peak tourism season in India starts from September to June. For wildlife enthusiasts, winter is ideal as national parks are open, and wildlife sightings are abundant. Hill stations are most enjoyable during summer to escape the scorching heat of the plains. For trekking and hiking adventures, winter, monsoon, autumn, and spring offer pleasant weather. Plan your trip according to your preferences, and you'll discover India's incredible beauty and cultural richness, making it an unforgettable holiday destination. September to April can be considered an ideal time to explore India for tourism holidays.

How to get around in India?

Traveling to India is a seamless experience, thanks to its well-developed transportation network. The country is easily accessible through various modes of transport, ensuring a smooth entry for tourists from around the world. India boasts an extensive road connectivity, making it convenient for travelers to explore different regions. The rail network, with an extensive network of trains, offers a scenic and comfortable journey to various destinations.

India is well-connected by domestic and international airports, offering direct flights from major cities like the UK, USA, Australia, Canada, Dubai, Singapore, and others. Each region of India, whether North, South, East, or West, has good international airports, easing travel for international visitors. Within India, traveling from one city to another is convenient and cost-effective. Most major cities have efficient metro systems, providing hassle-free transportation within urban areas. Buses and cab services are readily available, offering options for intercity and intra-city travel.

For shorter distances, auto-rickshaws are a popular mode of transport, providing a unique experience while navigating through busy city streets. Additionally, India's transportation options cater to various budgets, making it accessible to all kinds of travelers. Whether you wish to explore the historical sites of Delhi, the serene backwaters of Kerala, the majestic palaces of Rajasthan, or the scenic landscapes of Himachal Pradesh, getting around in India is easy and efficient. With its diverse transportation options, India welcomes tourists to embark on unforgettable journeys, immersing themselves in its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and warm hospitality.

Must-Follow Travel Tips for Exploring India

When visiting India, it's essential to check out important travel tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. Follow recommended guidelines for packing, cultural respect, local transportation, and staying safe. These tips will help you make the most of your India tour and have a memorable experience.

• Research and Plan Ahead: Familiarize yourself with India's culture, climate, and popular destinations. Plan your itinerary well in advance to make the most of your trip.
• Obtain Necessary Visas: Apply for the appropriate visa type and ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates.
• Pack Wisely: Pack lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for the weather. Don't forget essentials like sunscreen, a hat, comfortable footwear, and insect repellent.
• Respect Local Customs: India is culturally diverse, so be respectful of local customs, traditions, and dress codes, especially when visiting religious places.
• Stay Hydrated: Carry a water bottle and stay hydrated, especially during hot weather. Use bottled or boiled water for drinking and brushing your teeth.
• Eat Wisely: Enjoy the delicious Indian cuisine but be cautious with street food. Choose restaurants with good hygiene practices to avoid foodborne illnesses.
• Negotiate Prices: Bargaining is common in markets, so negotiate prices for souvenirs and services to get the best deal.
• Stay Safe: Be vigilant in crowded places and watch out for pickpockets. Use reputable transportation services and avoid traveling alone at night.
• Use Local Transport: Experience India's culture up close by using local transport like trains, rickshaws, and buses.
• Respect Wildlife: If visiting wildlife sanctuaries, maintain a safe distance from animals and follow park rules for a responsible and enjoyable experience.
• Stay Connected: Get a local SIM card or international roaming plan to stay connected with family and access maps and travel apps.
• Carry Cash: While credit cards are widely accepted in cities, have some cash on hand for smaller establishments and remote areas.
• Mind the Monsoon: Be prepared for heavy rainfall during the monsoon season, and plan outdoor activities accordingly.
• Respect Photography Rules: Always seek permission before taking photos of people or religious sites, as some may be sensitive to photography.
• Embrace the Chaos: India can be bustling and chaotic, but embrace the vibrant atmosphere, and you'll be rewarded with a truly unforgettable travel experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Some frequently asked questions about india tourism & holiday packages., what is the best time to travel to india.

The diverse topography of India comprises mountains, beaches, and deserts. The large size of the country also blesses it with different climatic conditions, which means that, while some places in India may have the mercury rising in the summers, there are some, where the weather is cool and pleasant. Therefore, the best time to travel to India depends on the places a tourist would like to visit in the country. However, it is also safe to say that the winter season (October - March) is mostly preferred by the tourists while visiting India.

For wildlife sightings, both summer (March-mid June) and winter seasons are favourable. While the winter season is best for sighting animals basking in the sun during the day time, summer is the time when they can be seen frequently paying a visit to the water holes.

What kind of clothes do I need to carry while traveling to India ?

Two things to keep in mind while packing for India are:

1. Season : Since India experiences hot summers (in most of the parts) and chilly winters, travellers should pack according to the month they are planning a visit in. If the trip is planned in the months between March and September, carrying light woolens (in the hills) and cotton clothes (in other areas) will be enough. On the other hand, if the trip is scheduled between October and February, carrying heavy woollens for North India and light woollens for South India is advisable.

2. Special Interest Tour : If you have booked your tour for trekking in India or wildlife safari or any other specific activity, then the clothing has to be carried accordingly. For wildlife safari, camouflage clothing, or clothes of green and brown shades are recommended. For trekking, clothing varies according to the place, altitude, season and difficulty grade. Though carrying clothes for layering; a down jacket; a good pair or trekking shoes; a sun hat; a woollen cap, muffler; socks; and a pair of gloves are required.

Is India a safe place to travel with kids?

Yes, it is safe to travel to India with kids. While you can travel with kids almost anywhere in the country, there are some places that make for better family travel destinations, with their good hotels, plenty of activities for kids, clean air and safer environs.

Is payment through credit card accepted in India widely?

Yes, in all major cities and towns in India, credit card payments are accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. Visa and Master Cards are widely accepted around the country, while some places also accept American Express, besides other types of cards.

What currency should I carry while traveling in India?

India's currency is Indian Rupees; it is advisable to exchange your currency at the airport or any foreign currency exchange before travelling to India.

I don't know English, how to deal with it while traveling to India?

While English is spoken and understood by a large number of people in India, it isn’t an absolute necessity. Instead, focus on learning some Hindi words that come in use in daily lives. You can also book a tour with Tour My India that offers tour guides who are proficient in different languages and can be mediators between you and other people you encounter in the country.

Is the Internet easily available in India?

Yes, the internet is easily available in India. All the major cities and towns, hotels, restaurants, and cafes in the popular destinations in India offer free Wi-Fi to their guests.

Do I need to take any medical precautions before going on a tour to India?

The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for India: Hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, cholera, yellow fever, Japanese encephalitis, rabies, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia and influenza.

While most of the vaccines mentioned are optional and depend upon the country you are visiting from and your personal health status, it is recommended to get Hepatitis A and typhoid vaccinations along with Cholera, Hepatitis B, Japanese Encephalitis, Rabies, and Yellow Fever as precaution.

Do I need a Visa to go to India?

All nationals, except nationals from Bhutan, Nepal and Maldives need a valid visa to enter in India. Maldives National need an Indian visa only when stay in India is longer than 90 days and Nepali nationals only require it, if they are entering India from china.

Can I get an Indian Visa on arrival?

The Visa on Arrival facility is only for the nationals of Japan, South Korea and UAE (only for such UAE nationals who had earlier obtained e-Visa or regular/paper visa for India).

How can get Indian Visa?

You can either apply for E-visa or you need to apply for it through the nearest Indian consulate/embassy in your country.

Who is eligible for E-Visa?

The following are the eligibility conditions for availing e-Visa services:

I. Nationals of countries listed on the e-Visa website https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/ are eligible to apply for e-Visa Services.

II. Foreigners whose sole objective for visiting India is:

• Recreation and sightseeing
• Casual visit to meet friends and relatives
• Attending short term yoga programme or short term courses on local languages, music, dance, arts & crafts, cooking, medicine etc. which should not be a formal or structured course/programme (courses not exceeding 6 months duration and not issuing a qualifying certificate/diploma etc. to the participants)
• Voluntary work of short duration (for a maximum period of one month, which do not involve any monetary payment or consideration of any kind in return)
• Medical treatment, including treatment under Indian systems of medicine
• As attendant to e-Medical visa holder
• Business purpose
• Attending a conference/ seminar/ workshop.

III. Passport should have at least six months validity at the time of making application for grant of e-Visa and a re-entry permit, if that is required under the law of the country of nationality of the applicant.

The passport should have at least two blank pages for stamping by the Immigration Officer.

IV. The foreigner should have return ticket or onward journey ticket, with sufficient money to spend during his/her stay in India.

V. Foreigners of Pakistani origin or having Pakistani Passport are not eligible for e-Visa. Foreigners who are not Pakistani nationals, but whose parents or grandparents (either paternal or maternal) was born in, or was permanently resident in Pakistan, are also not eligible for e-Visa. They may apply for regular Visa at Indian Mission.

VI. Not available to Diplomatic/Official Passport Holders or Laissez-passer/ international travel document holders.

VII. Not available to individuals endorsed on Parent's/Spouse's Passport i.e. each individual should have a separate passport.

How can I apply for Indian E-visa?

For details regarding procedure for applying, please visit our website: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/

When should I apply for E-visa?

I. For e-Tourist Visa (01 year / 05 years), e-Business Visa, e-Medical, e-Medical Attendant and e-Conference visa, applicants of the eligible countries/territories may apply online minimum 4 days in advance of the date of arrival. Such application can be made 120 days in advance from proposed date of travel.

II. For e-Tourist Visa (30 days), applicants of the eligible countries/territories may apply online minimum 4 days in advance of the date of arrival. Such application can be made 30 days in advance from proposed date of travel.

For updated information please visit https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/

Do Infants need E-visa?

Yes, all the children need E-visa and a separate application must be filled for each passport. Please ensure that your child?s passport is valid at-least for next 06 (six) months from the date of arrival in India.

If I have valid Indian E-visa, Can I enter India from any of the entry point?

No, you can enter in India through below airports and sea ports:

28 designated Airports i.e. Ahmedabad, Amritsar, Bagdogra, Bengaluru, Bhubaneshwar, Calicut, Chennai, Chandigarh, Cochin, Coimbatore, Delhi, Gaya, Goa, Guwahati, Hyderabad, Jaipur,Kolkata, Lucknow, Madurai, Mangalore, Mumbai, Nagpur, Port Blair, Pune, Tiruchirapalli, Trivandrum, Varanasi & Visakhapatnam, 05 designated seaports (i.e. Cochin, Goa, Mangalore, Chennai and Mumbai seaports). You may depart from any of the Indian Immigration Check Posts (ICPs).

For updated list please visit https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/

What is the validity of Indian E-visa?

The validity of e-Visa would be according to the e-Visa service you have requested in the application form as -

For e-Tourist Visa (01 year / 05 years), the validity would be 365 days / 05 years from the date of grant of ETA with Multiple entries and continuous stay during each visit which shall not exceed 90 days except nationals of USA, UK, Canada and Japan. In case of nationals of USA, UK, Canada and Japan, continuous stay during each visit shall not exceed 180 days.

For e-Tourist Visa (30 days), the validity would be 30 days from the date of your first arrival in India. Double entries will be granted within the e-Visa validity period stamped on your Passport. Your first arrival must be between the date of issue and expiry of ETA.

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India Overview

India, officially known as the Republic of India, is a vast and diverse country located in South Asia. It is bordered by Pakistan to the northwest, China, Nepal, and Bhutan to the north, and Bangladesh and Myanmar to the east. To the south, India is surrounded by the Indian Ocean, making it a peninsula. With its unique geographical location, India is often referred to as the "subcontinent". India is a federal union comprising 28 states and 8 union territories. Each state has its own distinct culture, traditions, and languages, contributing to the rich tapestry of India's diversity. The country's population is one of the world's largest, with over 1.3 billion people, making it a vibrant and dynamic nation.

The climate and weather in India vary greatly due to its vast size and diverse topography. From the snowy peaks of the Himalayas in the north to the tropical beaches in the south, India experiences a wide range of climatic conditions, including tropical, subtropical, desert, and alpine climates. India's history is steeped in ancient civilizations and has witnessed the rise and fall of various empires and dynasties. The country is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, reflecting its rich historical and cultural heritage. The Himalayas, the world's highest mountain range, are a prominent feature of India's geography. These majestic peaks not only add to the country's scenic beauty but also hold significant cultural and spiritual importance for various religions. Religion plays a vital role in India, with Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, Buddhism, and Jainism being some of the major religions practiced here. The country celebrates a multitude of festivals and cultural events, making it a year-round carnival of colors and traditions.

Essential Information about India: Quick Facts and Highlights

Discovering india: states and their capitals, union territories & their capitals.

For travelers, India is a treasure trove of exploration and experiences. From the bustling cities to serene rural landscapes, India offers a diverse range of attractions, such as historical monuments, palaces, temples, wildlife sanctuaries, and beautiful beaches. The country's tourism industry attracts millions of visitors every year who come to witness its diverse culture, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality. Visiting India is a journey that promises unforgettable memories, providing a blend of ancient traditions and modern advancements. Whether exploring the bustling streets of Delhi, marveling at the beauty of the Taj Mahal, or meditating in the peaceful foothills of the Himalayas, India offers a truly magical experience that leaves a lasting impression on every traveler.

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Top Websites Ranking

Most Visited Travel and Tourism Websites

Last updated : April 1, 2024

* Some websites ranked in the list above may contain adult content, please use caution when visiting unknown sites.

Most Visited Travel and Tourism Websites Ranking Analysis for March 2024

booking.com is ranked number 1 as the most popular website in the Travel and Tourism category in March 2024. The average amount of time that users spend on the website is 00:08:30 minutes, and they see, on average, 8.55 pages per visit. Pages per visit is a popular engagement metric that is calculated by dividing the total number of website views by the total number of visitors. The bounce rate for booking.com is 35.7%, meaning that 35.7% of visitors leave the website after viewing just one page.

tripadvisor.com and airbnb.com are 2nd and 3rd on the list. In terms of user engagement, tripadvisor.com has an average visit duration of 00:02:53 minutes, an average pages per visit of 3.96, and a bounce rate of 59.33%. Similarly, airbnb.com’s average visit duration is 00:07:58 minutes, its average pages per visit is 18.99, and its bounce rate is 32.86%.

expedia.com is a top Travel and Tourism website that ranks in 4th place. On average, visitors remain on-site for 00:06:09 minutes and 36.1% of those visits bounce after viewing just one page. In addition, the average website pages viewed per visit is 7.84.

Number five on our list is agoda.com, a top Travel and Tourism website. Visitors see 6.15 pages per visit and spend 00:06:14 minutes on the website. The bounce rate for agoda.com is 33.35%.

Come again next month for the updated website ranking & traffic analysis of the most visited Travel and Tourism websites!

FAQs About The Top Travel and Tourism Websites

Question: Which is the most visited Travel and Tourism website? Answer: booking.com is the most visited Travel and Tourism website in March 2024.

Question: Which is the 2nd most visited Travel and Tourism website? Answer: tripadvisor.com is the 2nd most visited Travel and Tourism website in March 2024.

Question: What are the top 5 most popular Travel and Tourism websites in the world? Answer: The top 5 most popular Travel and Tourism websites in the world in March 2024 are: 1. booking.com 2. tripadvisor.com 3. airbnb.com 4. expedia.com 5. agoda.com.

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New York Flights

• Flight Chicago - New York (ORD - LGA) $55+
• Flight Miami - Newark (MIA - EWR) $56+
• Flight Atlanta - New York (ATL - LGA) $58+
• Flight Fort Lauderdale - Newark (FLL - EWR) $61+
• Flight Dallas - New York (DFW - LGA) $70+
• Flight Fort Lauderdale - New York (FLL - LGA) $75+
• Flight Orlando - Newark (MCO - EWR) $75+
• Flight Orlando - New York (MCO - LGA) $78+
• Flight Miami - New York (MIA - LGA) $84+
• Flight Denver - New York (DEN - LGA) $94+
• Flight Chicago - Newark (ORD - EWR) $102+
• Flight Dallas - Newark (DFW - EWR) $109+
• Flight Chicago - New York (ORD - JFK) $117+
• Flight Los Angeles - New York (LAX - LGA) $125+
• Flight Los Angeles - Newark (LAX - EWR) $147+
• Flight Burbank - Newark (BUR - EWR) $159+
• Flight San Francisco - New York (SFO - LGA) $162+
• Flight Miami - New York (MIA - JFK) $167+
• Flight Dallas - New York (DFW - JFK) $173+
• Flight Seattle - Newark (SEA - EWR) $227+
• Flight Los Angeles - New York (LAX - JFK) $241+
• Flight San Francisco - Newark (SFO - EWR) $253+
• Flight Ontario - New York (ONT - JFK) $267+
• Flight San Francisco - New York (SFO - JFK) $296+

Orlando Flights

• Flight Atlanta - Orlando (ATL - MCO) $31+
• Flight Houston - Orlando (HOU - MCO) $35+
• Flight Houston - Orlando (IAH - MCO) $35+
• Flight Chicago - Orlando (ORD - MCO) $51+
• Flight Cleveland - Orlando (CLE - MCO) $53+
• Flight Philadelphia - Orlando (PHL - MCO) $53+
• Flight Dallas - Orlando (DFW - MCO) $60+

London Flights

• Flight New York - London (JFK - LGW) $273+
• Flight Los Angeles - London (LAX - LGW) $344+
• Flight New Windsor - London (SWF - STN) $370+
• Flight Boston - London (BOS - LGW) $412+
• Flight New York - London (JFK - LHR) $452+
• Flight Boston - London (BOS - LHR) $458+
• Flight Newark - London (EWR - LGW) $461+
• Flight Washington, D.C. - London (IAD - LHR) $473+
• Flight Miami - London (MIA - LHR) $474+

Fort Lauderdale Flights

• Flight Raleigh - Fort Lauderdale (RDU - FLL) $37+
• Flight Atlanta - Fort Lauderdale (ATL - FLL) $40+
• Flight Philadelphia - Fort Lauderdale (PHL - FLL) $47+
• Flight Chicago - Fort Lauderdale (ORD - FLL) $53+
• Flight Newark - Fort Lauderdale (EWR - FLL) $56+
• Flight Baltimore - Fort Lauderdale (BWI - FLL) $58+
• Flight Detroit - Fort Lauderdale (DTW - FLL) $61+

Boston Flights

• Flight Baltimore - Boston (BWI - BOS) $61+
• Flight Orlando - Boston (MCO - BOS) $61+
• Flight Newark - Boston (EWR - BOS) $69+
• Flight Chicago - Boston (ORD - BOS) $73+
• Flight Philadelphia - Boston (PHL - BOS) $76+
• Flight Atlanta - Boston (ATL - BOS) $79+
• Flight Charlotte - Boston (CLT - BOS) $79+

India Flights

• Flight Chicago - Hyderabad (ORD - HYD) $448+
• Flight New York - Mumbai (JFK - BOM) $486+
• Flight New York - Ahmedabad (JFK - AMD) $567+
• Flight New York - New Delhi (JFK - DEL) $650+
• Flight New York - Hyderabad (JFK - HYD) $671+
• Flight San Francisco - Hyderabad (SFO - HYD) $678+
• Flight San Francisco - New Delhi (SFO - DEL) $691+

Japan Flights

• Flight Los Angeles - Tokyo (LAX - NRT) $631+
• Flight San Francisco - Tokyo (SFO - NRT) $641+
• Flight Seattle - Tokyo (SEA - HND) $718+
• Flight Los Angeles - Tokyo (LAX - HND) $739+
• Flight Seattle - Tokyo (SEA - NRT) $750+
• Flight San Francisco - Tokyo (SFO - HND) $785+
• Flight Houston - Tokyo (HOU - NRT) $787+

Phoenix Flights

• Flight Dallas - Phoenix (DFW - PHX) $46+
• Flight Ontario - Phoenix (ONT - PHX) $58+
• Flight Santa Ana - Phoenix (SNA - PHX) $58+
• Flight Los Angeles - Phoenix (LAX - PHX) $64+
• Flight San Francisco - Phoenix (SFO - PHX) $68+
• Flight Portland - Phoenix (PDX - PHX) $73+
• Flight Seattle - Phoenix (SEA - PHX) $73+

Honolulu Flights

• Flight Los Angeles - Honolulu (LAX - HNL) $249+
• Flight San Francisco - Honolulu (SFO - HNL) $257+
• Flight San Jose - Honolulu (SJC - HNL) $277+
• Flight Oakland - Honolulu (OAK - HNL) $282+
• Flight Ontario - Honolulu (ONT - HNL) $321+
• Flight Seattle - Honolulu (SEA - HNL) $328+
• Flight San Diego - Honolulu (SAN - HNL) $336+

Los Angeles Flights

• Flight San Francisco - Los Angeles (SFO - LAX) $48+
• Flight Oakland - Los Angeles (OAK - LAX) $59+
• Flight Dallas - Los Angeles (DFW - LAX) $74+
• Flight Denver - Los Angeles (DEN - LAX) $77+
• Flight Atlanta - Los Angeles (ATL - LAX) $94+
• Flight Houston - Los Angeles (HOU - LAX) $95+
• Flight Houston - Los Angeles (IAH - LAX) $95+
• Flight Chicago - Los Angeles (ORD - LAX) $100+
• Flight Seattle - Los Angeles (SEA - LAX) $107+

Chicago Flights

• Flight Atlanta - Chicago (ATL - MDW) $48+
• Flight New York - Chicago (LGA - ORD) $55+
• Flight Dallas - Chicago (DFW - MDW) $58+
• Flight Orlando - Chicago (MCO - ORD) $60+
• Flight Dallas - Chicago (DFW - ORD) $66+
• Flight Houston - Chicago (HOU - ORD) $69+
• Flight Houston - Chicago (IAH - ORD) $69+

Denver Flights

• Flight Minneapolis - Denver (MSP - DEN) $38+
• Flight Chicago - Denver (ORD - DEN) $67+
• Flight Houston - Denver (HOU - DEN) $68+
• Flight Ontario - Denver (ONT - DEN) $73+
• Flight San Francisco - Denver (SFO - DEN) $73+
• Flight Santa Ana - Denver (SNA - DEN) $74+
• Flight Los Angeles - Denver (LAX - DEN) $77+

Washington, D.C. Flights

• Flight Atlanta - Baltimore (ATL - BWI) $45+
• Flight Boston - Baltimore (BOS - BWI) $55+
• Flight Dallas - Baltimore (DFW - BWI) $83+
• Flight Houston - Baltimore (IAH - BWI) $92+
• Flight Houston - Baltimore (HOU - BWI) $94+
• Flight Chicago - Baltimore (ORD - BWI) $96+
• Flight Boston - Washington, D.C. (BOS - DCA) $123+
• Flight Los Angeles - Baltimore (LAX - BWI) $124+
• Flight Minneapolis - Washington, D.C. (MSP - DCA) $131+
• Flight Dallas - Washington, D.C. (DFW - DCA) $133+
• Flight Houston - Washington, D.C. (HOU - DCA) $137+
• Flight Boston - Washington, D.C. (BOS - IAD) $149+
• Flight San Francisco - Washington, D.C. (SFO - DCA) $150+
• Flight San Francisco - Baltimore (SFO - BWI) $151+
• Flight Chicago - Washington, D.C. (ORD - DCA) $159+
• Flight Atlanta - Washington, D.C. (ATL - IAD) $184+
• Flight Atlanta - Washington, D.C. (ATL - DCA) $189+
• Flight Seattle - Washington, D.C. (SEA - DCA) $201+
• Flight Los Angeles - Washington, D.C. (LAX - DCA) $206+
• Flight Dallas - Washington, D.C. (DFW - IAD) $218+
• Flight Los Angeles - Washington, D.C. (LAX - IAD) $235+
• Flight Houston - Washington, D.C. (HOU - IAD) $266+
• Flight Seattle - Washington, D.C. (SEA - IAD) $274+
• Flight San Francisco - Washington, D.C. (SFO - IAD) $285+

Atlanta Flights

• Flight Fort Lauderdale - Atlanta (FLL - ATL) $35+
• Flight Baltimore - Atlanta (BWI - ATL) $37+
• Flight Miami - Atlanta (MIA - ATL) $37+
• Flight Detroit - Atlanta (DTW - ATL) $41+
• Flight Houston - Atlanta (HOU - ATL) $43+
• Flight Houston - Atlanta (IAH - ATL) $43+
• Flight Chicago - Atlanta (MDW - ATL) $44+

United States Flights

• Flight Newark - Miami (EWR - MIA) $56+
• Flight Dallas - Las Vegas (DFW - LAS) $60+
• Flight New York - Dallas (LGA - DFW) $72+
• Flight New York - Fort Lauderdale (LGA - FLL) $75+

Hawaii Flights

• Flight Los Angeles - Hawaii (LAX - USHI) $213+
• Flight San Francisco - Hawaii (SFO - USHI) $262+
• Flight San Jose - Hawaii (SJC - USHI) $275+
• Flight Ontario - Hawaii (ONT - USHI) $277+
• Flight Seattle - Hawaii (SEA - USHI) $317+
• Flight San Diego - Hawaii (SAN - USHI) $337+
• Flight Las Vegas - Hawaii (LAS - USHI) $354+

Tampa Flights

• Flight Atlanta - Tampa (ATL - TPA) $38+
• Flight Chicago - Tampa (MDW - TPA) $63+
• Flight Richmond - Tampa (RIC - TPA) $63+
• Flight Detroit - Tampa (DTW - TPA) $68+
• Flight Baltimore - Tampa (BWI - TPA) $69+
• Flight Philadelphia - Tampa (PHL - TPA) $72+
• Flight Cincinnati - Tampa (CVG - TPA) $74+

Houston Flights

• Flight Atlanta - Houston (ATL - IAH) $41+
• Flight Orlando - Houston (MCO - IAH) $49+
• Flight Dallas - Houston (DFW - IAH) $62+
• Flight Philadelphia - Houston (PHL - IAH) $68+
• Flight Los Angeles - Houston (LAX - IAH) $69+
• Flight Chicago - Houston (ORD - IAH) $73+
• Flight Miami - Houston (MIA - IAH) $75+

Las Vegas Flights

• Flight Los Angeles - Las Vegas (LAX - LAS) $23+
• Flight Burbank - Las Vegas (BUR - LAS) $25+
• Flight Oakland - Las Vegas (OAK - LAS) $47+
• Flight Dallas - Las Vegas (DFW - LAS) $53+
• Flight San Francisco - Las Vegas (SFO - LAS) $59+
• Flight Portland - Las Vegas (PDX - LAS) $63+
• Flight Santa Ana - Las Vegas (SNA - LAS) $65+
• Flight Denver - Las Vegas (DEN - LAS) $77+
• Flight Houston - Las Vegas (HOU - LAS) $79+
• Flight Houston - Las Vegas (IAH - LAS) $79+
• Flight Seattle - Las Vegas (SEA - LAS) $83+
• Flight Atlanta - Las Vegas (ATL - LAS) $85+
• Flight Baltimore - Las Vegas (BWI - LAS) $85+
• Flight Chicago - Las Vegas (ORD - LAS) $85+

Miami Flights

• Flight Atlanta - Miami (ATL - MIA) $45+
• Flight Philadelphia - Miami (PHL - MIA) $47+
• Flight Chicago - Miami (ORD - MIA) $51+
• Flight Newark - Miami (EWR - MIA) $55+
• Flight Baltimore - Miami (BWI - MIA) $58+
• Flight Raleigh - Miami (RDU - MIA) $63+
• Flight Chicago - Miami (MDW - MIA) $64+
• Flight Dallas - Miami (DFW - MIA) $73+
• Flight Charlotte - Miami (CLT - MIA) $75+
• Flight Houston - Miami (HOU - MIA) $75+
• Flight Houston - Miami (IAH - MIA) $75+
• Flight New York - Miami (LGA - MIA) $88+
• Flight Boston - Miami (BOS - MIA) $92+
• Flight Detroit - Miami (DTW - MIA) $92+
• Flight Denver - Miami (DEN - MIA) $97+
• Flight Cleveland - Miami (CLE - MIA) $98+
• Flight Minneapolis - Miami (MSP - MIA) $122+
• Flight Washington, D.C. - Miami (DCA - MIA) $137+
• Flight Los Angeles - Miami (LAX - MIA) $149+
• Flight Washington, D.C. - Miami (IAD - MIA) $149+
• Flight Ontario - Miami (ONT - MIA) $160+
• Flight New York - Miami (JFK - MIA) $167+

San Francisco Flights

• Flight Ontario - San Francisco (ONT - SFO) $48+
• Flight Portland - San Francisco (PDX - SFO) $58+
• Flight Los Angeles - San Francisco (LAX - SFO) $59+
• Flight Phoenix - San Francisco (PHX - SFO) $68+
• Flight Denver - San Francisco (DEN - SFO) $78+
• Flight San Diego - San Francisco (SAN - SFO) $82+
• Flight Dallas - San Francisco (DFW - SFO) $98+
• Flight Chicago - San Francisco (MDW - SFO) $105+
• Flight Santa Ana - San Francisco (SNA - SFO) $108+
• Flight Minneapolis - San Francisco (MSP - SFO) $111+
• Flight Atlanta - San Francisco (ATL - SFO) $124+
• Flight Seattle - San Francisco (SEA - SFO) $126+
• Flight Washington, D.C. - San Francisco (DCA - SFO) $147+
• Flight Austin - San Francisco (AUS - SFO) $152+

Seattle Flights

• Flight Denver - Seattle (DEN - SEA) $78+
• Flight Ontario - Seattle (ONT - SEA) $80+
• Flight Phoenix - Seattle (PHX - SEA) $96+
• Flight San Diego - Seattle (SAN - SEA) $105+
• Flight Los Angeles - Seattle (LAX - SEA) $118+
• Flight Santa Ana - Seattle (SNA - SEA) $122+
• Flight Burbank - Seattle (BUR - SEA) $135+

Paris Flights

• Flight Boston - Paris (BOS - CDG) $307+
• Flight Washington, D.C. - Paris (IAD - CDG) $316+
• Flight New Windsor - Paris (SWF - CDG) $319+
• Flight Baltimore - Paris (BWI - CDG) $320+
• Flight New York - Paris (JFK - CDG) $331+
• Flight New York - Paris (JFK - ORY) $348+
• Flight Los Angeles - Paris (LAX - CDG) $370+

Europe Flights

• Flight New York - London (JFK - LGW) $311+
• Flight Newark - Barcelona (EWR - BCN) $349+
• Flight New York - Paris (JFK - ORY) $352+
• Flight New Windsor - London (SWF - STN) $354+
• Flight New York - Paris (JFK - CDG) $360+
• Flight New York - Madrid (JFK - MAD) $391+
• Flight New York - Rome (JFK - FCO) $411+

Florida Flights

• Flight Philadelphia - Florida (PHL - USFL) $47+
• Flight Chicago - Florida (ORD - USFL) $51+
• Flight Newark - Florida (EWR - USFL) $55+
• Flight Baltimore - Florida (BWI - USFL) $56+
• Flight Boston - Florida (BOS - USFL) $58+
• Flight Dallas - Florida (DFW - USFL) $61+
• Flight New York - Florida (LGA - USFL) $76+

Dallas Flights

• Flight Chicago - Dallas (MDW - DFW) $46+
• Flight Atlanta - Dallas (ATL - DFW) $51+
• Flight Minneapolis - Dallas (MSP - DFW) $56+
• Flight Chicago - Dallas (ORD - DFW) $61+
• Flight Miami - Dallas (MIA - DFW) $67+
• Flight Los Angeles - Dallas (LAX - DFW) $69+

San Diego Flights

• Flight Phoenix - San Diego (PHX - SAN) $50+
• Flight San Jose - San Diego (SJC - SAN) $57+
• Flight Oakland - San Diego (OAK - SAN) $63+
• Flight San Francisco - San Diego (SFO - SAN) $65+
• Flight Dallas - San Diego (DFW - SAN) $66+
• Flight Sacramento - San Diego (SMF - SAN) $68+
• Flight Newark - San Diego (EWR - SAN) $79+

Frequently asked questions

What do i need to know before booking a flight.

There are various factors to consider when booking a flight including cost, fare classes, baggage policies, the complications of flying long haul, and complying with airport regulations. To make your booking journey smoother KAYAK has developed a comprehensive flight guide including insights on finding affordable flights, packing efficiently, and utilizing the best travel tools.

What is the cheapest day of the week to book a flight?

The best day to book your flight depends on a number of factors, but there are general trends that you can follow to increase your chances of cheaper plane tickets. Based on an analysis of KAYAK data for all flights departing from inside United States over the last 12 months, the cheapest day to fly for domestic flights is Wednesday. For international flights, Tuesday had the cheapest tickets on average.

Which month of the year are flight prices lowest?

It’s well established that flights in the low season are generally cheaper than ticket prices during the high season. That means that knowing which month to find the lowest priced plane tickets will depend heavily on seasonality and your destination. While avoiding peak travel times can help you keep costs down, our data shows that the month with the lowest priced plane tickets for domestic flights based on all searches made on KAYAK in the last 12 months was January, while the most expensive was March. If you’re booking an international flight, then January is the cheapest month to fly and June the most expensive.

When is the best time to buy plane tickets - Last minute or in advance?

Last minute flight deals are definitely up for grabs but when exactly to purchase your plane tickets will depend on where you’re traveling to and from. Based on all data for flight searches made on KAYAK over the last 12 months, prices for domestic flights remained below the average price up to 1 weeks before departure. For international flights, deals could still be had up to 1 weeks prior to the departure date, with prices remaining below average. If you’re flexible, KAYAK brings you both advance and last minute one-way and round-trip flight deals.

Can flying international flights with a layover save money on airfare?

For many long-haul international flights, flying non-stop is not possible and you will have to fly with a layover. Some routes will offer both and you could consider flying with a layover for a number of reasons. Firstly, breaking up what would otherwise be a long-haul flight, taking a rest and then completing the journey might make the flight more manageable. Secondly, prices can also be lower than non-stop flights, so while it might take longer for you to reach your destination, you could save money. We’ve looked at prices over the last 12 months for the 100 most popular international destinations for KAYAK users and on average, prices for non-stop flights were cheaper than flights with a layover.

How does KAYAK find such low flight prices?

KAYAK processes over 2 billion flight queries annually and displays results from hundreds of airlines and third party sites, allowing it to find a variety of flight prices and options. It also displays results from 2M+ properties along with rental cars, vacation packages, activities and millions of verified reviews so users can see as many available travel options as possible.

How do I find the best flight deals on KAYAK?

A simple flight search at https://www.kayak.com/flights scans for prices on hundreds of travel sites in seconds. We gather flight deals from across the web and put them in one place. Then on the search results page you can use various filters to compare options for the same flight and easily choose the best flight deal from all of the deals coming straight from the travel sites to your screen, with no extra fee from KAYAK.

How can Hacker Fares save me money?

Hacker Fares allow you to combine one-way tickets on different airlines when it can save you money over a traditional round-trip ticket.

Does KAYAK query more flight providers than competitors?

Yes, KAYAK has access to more data and information than online travel agencies and consistently outperforms the competition in accuracy, globally.

How does KAYAK's flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy?

KAYAK's flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a given destination and date is likely to change within 7 days, so travelers know whether to wait or book now.

What is KAYAK's "flexible dates" feature and why should I care?

Sometimes travel dates aren't set in stone. If your preferred travel dates have some wiggle room, flexible dates will show you flights up to 3 days before/after your preferred dates. That way, you can see if leaving a day or two earlier will find you a better deal. You can also select the flexible "weekend" or "month" search options to widen your search range and find the cheapest price that works for you.

Surge in Adventure Tourism: Four Big Trends in 2024

Jesse Chase-Lubitz , Skift

April 17th, 2024 at 12:00 PM EDT

New data shows that experiences are the leading factor when choosing a destination.

Jesse Chase-Lubitz

The latest consumer spending data from GetYourGuide reveals a surge in demand for unique travel experiences and activities that align with personal passions.

The report analyzes booking data from millions of travelers and highlights a significant shift in travel priorities. Here are the key takeaways:

Experiences Rule

Travelers are prioritizing experiences over traditional sightseeing. Nearly all travelers (90%) plan to spend the same or more on activities in 2024, and experiences are now the leading factor when choosing a destination (reported by 98% of travelers). 

Passion Drives Destinations

The hottest travel destinations are no longer just about iconic landmarks. Cities like Fajardo, Puerto Rico (up 419% in bookings by American travelers) and Hoi An, Vietnam (up 284% globally) are experiencing a boom, likely due to their unique cultural offerings and adventure opportunities.

Globally Inspired

Travelers are venturing beyond the usual suspects. This year’s top trending tours include the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, kayaking through El Yunque Rainforest in Puerto Rico, and even a hot air balloon ride over Interlaken, Switzerland.

The Rise of the Explorer  

GetYourGuide identifies a new breed of traveler – the “Explorer” – who spends more on experiences, takes longer trips, and travels more frequently. These high-value vacationers are fueling the experience economy.

Get Skift Research

Skift Research products provide deep analysis, data, and expert research on the companies and trends that are shaping the future of travel.

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Tags: getyourguide , tourism , Travel Experiences , Travel Trends

Photo credit: GetYourGuide Walking Tour in London. Source: GetYourGuide

Top 10 most visited websites in the world in March 2024

Ready to uncover the internet favourites from google to whatsapp, let's explore the most visited websites worldwide.

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Top 10 most visited websites.

• Established: 1998
• Country: United States

youtube.com

• Established: 2005

facebook.com

• Established: 2004

instagram.com

• Established: 2010

twitter.com (X)

• Established: 2006
• Established: 2000
• Country: China

wikipedia.org

• Established: 2001
• Established: 1994
• Established: 1997
• Country: Russia

whatsapp.com

• Established: 2009
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What's the best fast food in the US? This travel guide picks a Wisconsin brand.

The best fast food restaurant in the United States , according to Fodor's Travel , has a Wisconsin flavor.

Of course, it's Culver's .

Fodor's Geena Truman wrote that she spent a year "driving around the U.S. on a quest to eat (and experience) the true culture of America."

She ranked 12 fast-food chains, leaving out large corporations like McDonald's, Wendy's and Burger King.

And in the top spot as "the most delicious fast food pit stop in America" is Culver's, the restaurant founded in Sauk City in 1984 by George, Ruth, Craig and Lea Culver.

The article said Culver's "gives the outer appearance of fast-food but outperforms all others in taste."

The rest of the list? In order, it's Shake Shack, In-N-Out, Whataburger, Raising Cane's, Five Guys, Chick-fil-A, Dave's Hot Chicken, Kelly's Roast Beef, White Castle, Dick's and Zips (tied) and Jollibee.

More: Yelp reviewers chose their best cheeseburger in Wisconsin. Here's your choice.

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‘conan o’brien must go’: where to watch the new travel series online.

The former late night host is on a mission to meet his fans from all around the world.

By Rudie Obias

Rudie Obias

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After his appearance on the Hot Ones web series and his return to NBC’s Tonight Show as Jimmy Fallon’s guest, Conan O’Brien is back on TV with his new travel series, Conan O’Brien Must Go .

All four episodes of Conan O’Brien Must Go are available to stream online starting today. You can watch the travel series with a subscription to Max .

At a glance:  How to watch   Conan O’Brien Must Go online

• Release date:  April 18
• Stream online :  Max
• No. of episodes : 4

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'conan o'brien must go' review: conan's max travel series is smartly stupid fun, jean smart to receive the hollywood reporter's trailblazer award at the seattle international film festival.

The new travel series is receiving mostly positive reviews. “ Conan O’Brien Must Go  is a smartly dumb show — or a stupidly smart show — focused (loosely) on what is essential about travel,” Hollywood Reporter chief TV critic Daniel Fienberg writes in his review . “It’s a series about arriving in a new place open to meeting new people, learning new languages, tasting new foods and experiencing uncomfortable new circumstances … and then making fun of them, when all the while you’re mostly mocking yourself and the fears people have about stepping outside of their comfort zones.”

Learn more about Max and the best deals for the streamer here .

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