From the picturesque hill stations to snow clad mountains to some of the cleanest and most beautiful beaches in the World, India has it all. Many tourist places in India have been declared as World Heritage Sites, and people from all over the world come to visit those places in India. Check out this list of tourist places in India that will want you to travel to India before traveling abroad.
List of Famous Tourist Places in India:
1. Munnar, Kerala:
This hill station in Kerala is famous for its tea gardens and jagged peaks. It is the commercial center for some of the largest tea producers of the country. It is home to the endangered wildlife such as the Nilgiri Thar and the Neelakurinji. It is situated on the banks of 3 rivers namely – Madupetti, Periavaru and Nallathanni and is one of the famous tourist places in India.
Highlights of the Tour:
- Day 1: Arrive at the Kochi airport and enjoy the scenic beauty as you drive through the hills to Munnar.
- Day 2: Visit the nearby places such as the tea gardens, Echo point, Tea museum.
- Day 3: Visit the Eravikulam National Park in the morning. In the evening catch up some local performances of Kathakali and kalarippayattu
- Day 4: Visit the top station which has a mesmerizing view and several waterfalls in the outskirts of Munnar.
Places to Visit:
- Attukad waterfalls
- Echo Point
- Eravikulam National Park
- Pothamedu view point
Best Time to Visit:
- September to May
Peak Season:
- October to March
Nearest City:
- Aluva
How to Reach:
By Train
- The nearest railway station is Aluva (110 km)
- Ernakulam Railway Station (130km)
- Madurai Railway Station (135km)
By Air
- Nearest Airport is Cochin International Airport which is 110 km away
- The Madurai International Airport is 140km
Language Spoken:
- Malayalam, Tamil, English, and Hindi
Ideal Trip Duration:
- 3-4 days
2. Goa:
Known for its brilliant beaches, delicious food, and the Portuguese heritage, Goa is one of the smallest States in India. Panjim, the capital city of Goa, is centrally located and well connected to the other cities of the country through its International Airport. With its coastline stretching over 100 km, there are numerous beaches in Goa that attract tourists from all over the world making it one of the top tourist destination in India.
Highlights of the Tour:
- Day 1: Hire a bike or scooter and visit the Calangute beach and Baga Beach, the 2 most famous beaches for family crowds. Indulge in some water sports. Party at Titos in the night
- Day 2: Get up early and visit the Fort Aguada and Fort Chapora. Later in the day visit the churches and end the day with a party at club Cabana.
- Day 3: Visit north Goa and some of its famous beaches such as Candolim Beach or Arambol Beach. Spend the evening at Casino Cruise at Panjim Jetty.
Places to Visit:
- Calangute Beach
- Baga Beach
- Basilica of Bom Jesus
- Anjuna Beach
- Flea Markets
Best Time to Visit:
- October to May
Peak Season:
- October to January
Nearest City:
- Major cities of Goa are Vasco-da-Gama, Madgaon, Mapusa, Panaji, and Ponda
How to Reach:
- The main railway stations of Goa are Madgaon and Vasco-da-Gama which are well connected to Mumbai as well as other cities of India.
- By air, the nearest and the only airport is Dabolim International Airport.
- There are several buses which ply from different cities of Maharashtra to Goa.
Language Spoken:
- Konkani is the official language of Goa. Other languages spoken here are Hindi, English, Portuguese and Marathi.
Ideal Trip Duration:
- 3-4 days
3. Agra, Uttar Pradesh:
Famous for its architectural history and home to one of the 7 wonders of the World, Agra is a must visit for the historical lover. The Taj Mahal features in the 50 most popular tourist destinations in the world and is one of the top tourist attractions in India.
Highlights of the Tour:
- Day 1: Visit Fatehpur Sikri, Tomb of Itimad
- Day 2: Reach early to Taj Mahal. Enjoy some shopping in the evening.
- Day 3: Visit Agra Fort and Tomb of Akbar
Places to Visit:
- Taj Mahal
- Fatehpur Sikri
- Agra Fort
- Itimad-Ud-daulah’s Tomb
- Tomb of Akbar
Best Time to Visit:
- October to March
Peak Season:
- October to March
Nearest City:
- Agra
How to Reach:
- By air nearest airport is Agra Airport
- By train, the nearest railway station is Agra Fort and Agra Cantt.
- By Road, Agra is a part of the Golden Triangle and is connected to Delhi via NH2
Language Spoken:
- Hindi
Ideal Trip Duration:
- 2-3 days
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4. Andaman & Nicobar Islands:
Virgin Islands, Blue Sea, and colonial past – This is what describes the Andaman & Nicobar Islands in a nutshell. It is a union territory which comprises of 572 islands of which only 37 have a habitation, and even fewer are open for tourists. Port Blair is the capital city Andaman & Nicobar Islands that connect the various islands via daily ferries.
Highlights of the Tour:
- Day 1: Arrive at Port Blair and take a city tour
- Day 2: Take a ferry to Havelock Islands. Spend some time at the Radhanagar Beach and trek to the Elephanta Beach
- Day 3: Go for some adventures such as scuba diving or snorkeling or spend the day at any of the beaches
Places to Visit:
- Scuba diving in Andaman
- Havelock Island
- Snorkeling in Andaman
- Cellular Jail (Kala Paani)
- Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex
- Ross Island
- Neil Island
Best Time to Visit:
- October to June
Peak Season:
- December to March
Nearest City:
- Port Blair
How to Reach:
- By Air: There is a daily flight to Port Blair from Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru
- By Ship: From Chennai, Kolkata, and Vizag
Language Spoken:
- Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Bengali
Ideal Trip Duration:
- 4-6 days
5. Leh-Ladakh, Jammu, and Kashmir:
With a superabundance of attractions, this land is to be visited for its fabulous landscapes, incredible culture and beautiful people. It is truly heaven on earth. Bounded by the world’s two mightiest mountain ranges – Himalayas and Karakoram, Ladakh is mystical in all spheres and best tourist spot in India.
Highlights of the Tour:
- Day 1: Arrive Leh by flight. Spend your day to acclimatize yourself to the weather as you are at the height of 14000m
- Day 2: Head for sightseeing – Visit Sindhu Ghat, Shanti Stupa, Drak Padma Karpo (Rancho’s School)
- Day 3: Head to Nubra valley which is a 5-hour journey and visits Samstaling Monastery
- Day 4: On the way back from Nubra Valley visit the Diskit Monastery and Hunder Sand Dunes
- Day 5: Head for Pangong Lake
Places to Visit:
- Pangong Lake
- Magnetic Hill
- Leh Palace
- Chadar Trek
- Tso Moriri
- Zanskar Valley
Best Time to Visit:
- June to September
Peak Season:
- June to August
Nearest City:
- Leh
How to Reach:
- The easiest way to travel is by air, the nearest airport being the Leh Airport.
- The nearest railway station is Tawi which is 700km from Ladakh
Language Spoken:
- Tibetan or Bodhi
Ideal Trip Duration:
- 5-7 days
6. Darjeeling, West Bengal:
With mesmerizing sunrises and untouched beauty of the hills, Darjeeling is truly the queen of the Himalayas, nestled in the lush green tea plantations over the steep mountain ridge, this scenic beauty is a perfect getaway for honeymoon couples. Darjeeling is a popular respite from the hot and humid summer in India making it one of the best tourist destinations in India.
Highlights of the Tour:
- Day 1: Arrive at the hotel. Head to Chowrasta mall and take a stroll on the scenic mall road.
- Day 2: Begin your day early and witness mesmerizing sunrise at the Tiger Hill. Visit old Ghoom Monastery and Batasia Loop. Return to the hotel. Later go for a 7 point city tour covering all the major sights of the city.
- Day 3: Take a Toy Train joy ride which lasts for 2 hours. In the second half visit the Rock garden and Maya Park.
Places to Visit:
- Darjeeling Himalayan Railway
- Tiger Hill
- Batasia Loop
- Darjeeling Ropeway
- Nightingale Park
Best Time to Visit:
- September to December, February, and March
Peak Season:
- October, November, March to May
Nearest City:
- Darjeeling
How to Reach:
- By air, the nearest airport is Bagdogra airport which is 95 km away
- The nearest railway station is Jalpaiguri Railway Station which is 65 km from the main city.
Language Spoken:
- Nepali
Ideal Trip Duration:
- 2-3 days
7. Manali, Himachal Pradesh:
Manali is fondly called as the Lover’s Capital of India. Nestled in the snow-capped mountains of the Dhauladhar and PirPanjal ranges, Manali is one of the most beautiful tourist places in India. Solang Valley is the most visited valley in Manali, and the road to Solang is equally picturesque as the valley itself.
Highlights of the Tour:
- Day 1: Reach Manali. Begin the tour with a visit to the Hadimba Devi Temple and the flea market
- Day 2: Head off to the Rohtang Pass. On the way back visit the Solang Valley
- Day 3: Soak yourself in the Vashisht hot springs
- Day 4: On your return, stop at Bhuntar to enjoy river rafting or experience the Kullu’s temples and markets.
Places to Visit:
- Solang Valley
- Rohtang Pass
- Vashisht Hot Springs
- Adventurous activities in Manali
- Beas Kund Trek
- Paragliding in Manali
- Hadimba Devi Temple
Best Time to Visit:
- October to June
Peak Season:
- March to June
Nearest City:
- Chandigarh
How to Reach:
- By air, the nearest airport is Bhuntar airport which is 50km from Manali
- By bus, Manali is well connected to the various tourist destinations such as Shimla, Kullu, Leh, Dharamshala, etc.
Language Spoken:
- Hindi
Ideal Trip Duration:
- 2-4 days
8. Ooty, Tamil Nadu:
For all the mountain lovers, visiting the city which is known as the Queen of Hills is a real bliss. Ooty, which was once a summer headquarters of the East India Company, is a picturesque location to relax and unwind. The inspiring Nilgiri Hills, the serene waterfalls and the awestruck tea gardens – Ooty is full of magnificent sights making it one of the most visited tourist places in India.
Highlights of the Tour:
- Day 1: Reach Coimbatore and take a taxi or bus to Ooty. Head straight to the Avalanche Lake, a fun destination for trekking and Kayaking. On the way back enjoy the sunset at the Doddabetta Peak
- Day 2: Take a 2-hour safari to reach the Upper Bhavani Lake, 20km from Ooty. Later visit the wax museum and Tea Museum.
- Day 3: Visit Elk Hill and enjoy the Toy Train ride to Mettupalayam.
Places to Visit:
- Nilgiri Mountain Railway
- Ooty Lake
- Ooty Rose Garden
- Ooty Botanical Gardens
- Thread Garden
- Emerald Lake
Best Time to Visit:
- Throughout the year
Peak Season:
- March to June
Nearest City:
- Coimbatore
How to Reach:
- By air, Coimbatore is the nearest airport some 88km away
- By train, the nearest railway station is Mettupalayam which is 40km from Ooty
Language Spoken:
- Tamil, English, and Kannada
Ideal Trip Duration:
- 2-3 days
9. Shimla, Himachal Pradesh:
Shimla is the capital city of Himachal Pradesh. The mystical woods and beautiful hills make Shimla one of the famous tourist destinations in India. The weather here is enjoyable, and tourists flock in during summers to beat the heat of other parts of the nation.
Highlights of the Tour:
- Day 1: Reach Shimla. Take a stroll on the mall road absorbing the aura of nature.
- Day 2: Visit the Jakhoo Temple. Later enjoy the snow at Kufri
- Day 3: Hike to the nearest hilltop early in the morning and enjoy the sunrise. Go to some local shopping.
Places to Visit:
- Mall road
- Toy train to Kalka
- Ridge
- Kufri
- Jakhoo Temple
- Chail
Best Time to Visit:
- October to June
Peak Season:
- March to June
Nearest City:
- Chandigarh
How to Reach:
- By air, the Jubarhati is the nearest airport which is 23km away. However, it is not that well connected. The well-connected airport is Chandigarh airport. The Chandigarh-Shimla highway is well developed and takes only 3.5 hours to reach Shimla from Chandigarh
- By rail, Kalka is the nearest railhead which is 89km away.
Language Spoken:
- Hindi
Ideal Trip Duration:
- 2-4 days
10. Gangtok, Sikkim:
Wreathed in the clouds, an extraordinarily alluring and pleasantly boisterous location is Gangtok, the Capital of Sikkim. This place can give you a distant view of the majestic Kanchenjunga Mountain. A bird’s eye view of this place from the cable car will leave you awestruck. It can be safely considered as one of the most famous tourist places in India.
Highlights of the Tour:
- Day 1: Reach by afternoon and evening and enjoy the scenic beauty. Take a stroll on the MG Road in the night and enjoy some local cuisines.
- Day 2: Take a half day city tour and head to experience the ropeway in the second half of the day.
- Day 3: Visit the Baba Harbhajan Singh Memorial Trust on your way to Nathula Pass. Enjoy the yak rides and take a stopover at the Tsongmo Lake.
Places to Visit:
- Nathu La Pass
- MG Road, Gangtok
- Rumtek Monastery
- Tsomgo Lake
- Ganesh Tok
Best Time to Visit:
- All around the year
Peak Season:
- September to June
Nearest City:
- Gangtok
How to Reach:
- The nearest airport to Gangtok is Bagdogra in West Bengal which is 124kmaway
- The nearest railhead is New Jalpaiguri in Siliguri some 148kmaway
Language Spoken:
- Nepali, English, Hindi, Sikkimese, Tibetan, Lepcha
Ideal Trip Duration:
- 2-4 days
11. Udaipur, Rajasthan:
Also known as the city of lakes, Udaipur is the crown jewel of Rajasthan. The breathtaking architecture, beautiful Aravalli Hills from all the 4 sides, mesmerizing temples all add to the beauty of this place. A boat ride in the Lake of Pichola will prove why this city is the pride of Rajasthan.
Highlights of the Tour:
- Day 1: Reach Udaipur. Begin the tour with a ride in the Lake Pichola. Also, visit the Bagore Haveli and Udaipur Palace as they lie in the same vicinity.
- Day 2: Get some souvenirs and handicrafts from the Shilpgram. Visit Udai Vilas, a popular site for movie shooting and reach Doodh Talai to enjoy its sunset.
- Day 3: Visit the Eklingji temple or the Haldighati. Alternatively, spend the day at leisure shopping in the nearby market.
Places to Visit:
- Lake Pichola
- City Palace
- Fateh Sagar Lake
- Vintage Car Museum
- Eklingji Temple
Best Time to Visit:
- October to March
Peak Season:
- October to March
Nearest City:
- Udaipur
How to Reach:
- By air, the Udaipur airport is well connected to the rest of the country and is 22km from the center of the city.
- By train, the Udaipur railway station is located within the city limits.
Language Spoken:
- Hindi, Marwari, Urdu, Wagdi, Gujarati.
Ideal Trip Duration:
- 2-3 days
12. Dalhousie, Himachal Pradesh:
This place has been given the acronym of being the Switzerland of India. Located in the lap of Himachal Pradesh, this place is a paradise for honeymoon couples. The pine-clad valleys, fast flowing rivers, the flower-decked meadows and the magnificent view of the mountains all sum up to being one of the most breathtaking views in the world. It is one of the best places to visit in India during the summer.
Highlights of the Tour:
- Day 1: Arrive at Pathankot Railway Station or the Gaggal Airport and take a cab to Dalhousie.
- Day 2: Visit Panchpula and trek to a beautiful waterfall. Also, visit Satdhara falls on the way.
- Day 3: Leave for Khajjar Lake. Also, visit the Kalatop wildlife sanctuary and the ancient Khajji Nag temple.
Places to Visit:
- Khajjar
- Stdhara Falls
- Panchkula
- Kalatop Khajjar Sanctuary
- Drikung Peak
- River Rafting
Best Time to Visit:
- All Around the year
Peak Season:
- March to May
Nearest City:
- Pathankot
How to Reach:
- The nearest airport, as well as rail connects various cities to Dalhousie, is Pathankot which is 90km from the city.
Language Spoken:
- Hindi
Ideal Trip Duration:
- 2-3 days
13. Coorg, Karnataka:
If you are a nature lover and if the perpetually misty landscape is what you are looking for then Coorg is a place for you to be. It is a favorite hill station known for its coffee production and lush green hills here all contain coffee plantations. Also known as Kodagu, Coorg is the most affluent hill station in the State of Karnataka and one of the best places to visit in India.
Highlights of the Tour:
- Day 1: Arrive in Coorg. Visit Raja’s Seat and Abbey Falls.
- Day 2: Pay a visit to Omkareshwar, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas. Also visit the Golden Temple, the largest Buddhist monastery in India.
- Day 3: Visit Tala Cauvery, the beautiful island formed at the banks of river Cauvery. You need to trek through the rope bridges to reach here.
- Day 4: Plan a trip to coffee plantations and experience some coffee plucking. You can also add some adventure to your journey before you end it.
Places to Visit:
- Abbey Falls
- Tala Cauvery
- Golden Temple
- Raja’s Seat
- White water river rafting in Barapole River, Coorg
- Nagarhole National Park
Best Time to Visit:
- October to March
Peak Season:
- October to March
Nearest City:
- Mysore
How to Reach:
- By air Mysore, Mangalore and Bengaluru are the nearest airports with a distance of 112km, 139km, and 255km respectively. You need to hire a van to reach Coorg
- By rail, the Mysore Railway Station is the nearest.
Language Spoken:
- Kodava Tukk
Ideal Trip Duration:
- 3-4 days
14. Kochi, Kerala:
Kochi is a bustling commercial port city with a trading history that lies back 600 years. Kochi is the commercial, industrial and financial capital of Kerala and is also known as the Queen of the Arabian Sea. A land of islands all interconnected by ferries, this town features some of the most exceptional heritage accommodations. It is one of the most beautiful tourist places in India.
Highlights of the Tour:
- Day 1: Reach Kochi and check-into the hotel. Explore the market in the evening.
- Day 2: The Chhotanikkara Bhagavathy Temple in Kochi, is a very famous Hindu temple and a popular tourist spot – a must visit for all. Then proceed to the Kashi Art Gallery or the Kerala Folklore Museum.
- Day 3: Visit the Vypin Islands, especially the Cherai beach one of the cleanest beaches in the world.
- Day 4: Reserve this day for some backwater tourism by ferries and cruisers. Besides you can also visit sites such as Paradesi, Synagogue, and Church of Santa Cruz Basilica.
Places to Visit:
- Mattancherry Palace
- Fort Kochi
- Jewish Synagogue
- Chinese Fishing Nets
- Willingdon Island
- Veeranpuzha lake and backwaters
Best Time to Visit:
- July to April
Peak Season:
- October to April
Nearest City:
- Kochi
How to Reach:
- The Kochi International Airport is the nearest airport to the city well connected to the different cities of the world.
- The Kochi railhead is the nearest railway station
Language Spoken:
- Malayalam and English
Ideal Trip Duration:
- 3-4 days
15. Kodaikanal, Tamilnadu:
Kodaikanal is one of the most famous tourist spots in India. As soon as you think of Kodaikanal a picture of the beautiful climate, cloud-capped mountains, cliffs covered with mist, gorgeous lakes and valleys come to your mind. Situated amongst the rolling slopes of Palani Hills in Tamil Nadu, the Kodaikanal is one of the famous tourist places in India that has a climate pleasant throughout the year.
Highlights of the Tour:
- Day 1: Arrive at Kodaikanal, check-into the hotel and leave for sightseeing. Visit the Coaker’s Walk, Kurinji Andavar Temple, and enjoy the sunset at Green Valley Point.
- Day 2: Trek to the Dolphin’s nose and visit the Shola Falls and Pillar Rocks. End your day by visiting the Devil’s Kitchen.
- Day 3: Visit Kodai Lake and Silver Cascades waterfall. Later visit the Bryant Park and Berijam Lake.
- Day 4: End your trip by collecting souvenirs from the local market.
Places to Visit:
- Green valley view
- Kodai Lake
- Bear Shola Falls
- Pillar Rocks
- Devil’s Kitchen
- Coakers Walk
Best Time to Visit:
- September to May
Peak Season:
- April to June
Nearest City:
- Madurai
How to Reach:
- The Madurai Airport is located at 110km from Kodaikanal is the nearest airport
- By train, The Kodai station located between Dindigul and Madurai is the closest.
Language Spoken:
- Malayalam, Hindi, Tamil, Kannada and Dravidian
Ideal Trip Duration:
- 1-2 days
16. Mussoorie, Uttarakhand:
If your dream holiday involved tranquil hills, wandering in the untouched natural beauty that is unadulterated and in its truest form, then Mussoorie is the ideal place for you. Situated 7000ft above the sea level and known as the Queen of the Hills, the natural beauty of Mussoorie makes it’s a popular choice for many honeymoon goers as well as adventure lovers. It is one of the most visited tourist places in India.
Highlights of the Tour:
- Day 1: Reach Mussoorie, check-in freshen up and go out to enjoy the famous cheese omelet. Spend the day exploring the local market.
- Day 2: Take the cable car to reach the Gun Hill. Walk to the Company Garden and get clicked wearing the local traditional outfit. Post lunch visit the Kempty Falls.
- Day 3: Visit the highest point of Mussoorie, Lal Tibba. Later go for the Mussoorie Lake and indulge in some adventurous sports.
Places to Visit:
- Lal Tibba
- Lake Mist
- Kempty Falls
- Cloud’s end
- Gun Hill
Best Time to Visit:
- September to June
Peak Season:
- April to June
Nearest City:
- Dehradun
How to Reach:
- By air, Dehradun is the nearest airport which is 36 km away from the city.
- Dehradun Railway Station is also the nearest railway station that is well connected to other cities of the country.
Language Spoken:
- Garhwali, Hindi, Punjabi, English and Kumaoni
Ideal Trip Duration:
- 2-3 days
17. Pondicherry:
Officially changed to Puducherry and fondly called as Pondy, this place is one of the seven Union territories of India. A former French Colony, this place is a perfect combination of traditional Indian sensibilities and French Architecture. Come and explore the boulevards and rues of Puducherry that will take you to the beautiful seaside Promenade where the Bay of Bengal is splashing the shores of the famous Rock Beach. Unwind at one of the most attractive tourist places in India.
Highlights of the Tour:
- Day 1: Arrive at Pondicherry and take a boat to the Paradise Beach from Chunnambar. Enjoy the water sports here and explore some of the finest restaurants in Puducherry.
- Day 2: Rent a cycle and explore the French Quarters of Pondicherry. Spend the night at the famous nightclub Asta to get a flavor of Pondi’s nightlife.
- Day 3: Visit the Aurobindo Ashram and spend the day in the serenity of the ashram exploring the Ashram’s exhibition and participating in the evening Samadhi and meditation.
- Day 4: Enjoy the sunrise at the Ousteri Lake as you watch the birds migrating here. Later experience the underwater marine life and corals by participating in the adventures organized by Temple Adventures.
Places to Visit:
- Paradise Beach
- Auroville Ashram
- Seaside Promenade
- Serenity Beach
- Auroville Beach
Best Time to Visit:
- October to March
Peak Season:
- October to February
Nearest City:
- Chennai
How to Reach:
- The nearest airport is Chennai International airport located 135kmaway.
- By train, the Villupuram railhead which is 35kmfrom Pondicherry is ideal.
Language Spoken:
- French, Tamil, Malayalam, and Telugu
Ideal Trip Duration:
- 3-4 days
18. Vaishno Devi, Jammu & Kashmir:
Located in Trikuta hills and at the height of 1560m above the sea level is situated the holy temple of Mata Vaishno Devi. Such is the pride of this temple that it allures millions of pilgrims throughout the world. It is believed that during the Aarti, goddess Durga arrives and pays respect to Mata Rani.
Highlights of the Tour:
- Day 1: Arrive at the Katra and check into the hotel. Explore the local market that has umpteen choices of goods and crafts.
- Day 2: Start your trip early in the morning, and you will be able to reach the Holy Bhawan by evening.
- Day 3: Seek the blessings of Mata and also pay a visit to the Bhairavnath Temple. Once down you can trek or take a helicopter ride from the Sanjhhi Ghat.
Places to Visit:
- Vaishno Devi temple
- ArdhKuwari Cave
- Bhairavnath temple
- Dera Baba Banda
- Katra
Best Time to Visit:
- Throughout the year
Peak Season:
- March to October
Nearest City:
- Jammu
How to Reach:
- By Air, the Jammu Tawi Airport located at a distance of 46kmis the nearest
- By train, the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra railway station is at a distance of 20km
Language Spoken:
- Dogri and Hindi
Ideal Trip Duration:
- 1 day
19. Alleppey, Kerala:
Now known as Alappuzha, Alleppey is a beautiful city in Kerala. This city is known for its backwaters and rejuvenating Ayurvedic Resorts. The Houseboat cruises that pass through the serene backwaters will give you a glimpse of green paddy fields, beautiful avifauna, coir making activities and the lives of the locals in Kerala. The Alleppey Beach in the Arabian Sea, gives a beautiful example of the gems that one can find along the Malabar Coast. It is one of the best holiday destinations in India.
Highlights of the Tour:
- Day 1: Reach Alleppey by afternoon. In the evening take a stroll in the local market
- Day 2: Head to the glorious Krishnapuram Palace from where you can take a houseboat to the backwaters of Alleppey.
- Day 3: Begin the day with a visit to Alleppey Beach. Take an hour’s journey to reach the Kumarakoram Bird Sanctuary to witness some exquisite range of birds.
Places to Visit:
- Houseboats
- Alappuzha Beach
- Backwaters
- Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
- Vembanad Lake
- Nehru Trophy Snake Boat Race
Best Time to Visit:
- June to March
Peak Season:
- June to September
Nearest City:
- Alleppey
How to Reach:
- By air, the Cochin International Airport is the nearest airport that is 75km away from Alleppey.
- By rail, the Alleppey Railway Station is well connected to Coimbatore and Trivandrum.
Language Spoken:
- Malayalam, Konkani
Ideal Trip Duration:
- 2-3 days
20. Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh:
The very name of Tirupati gives you a visual of the temple of Lord Venkateshwara. Located in the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh and fondly known as God’s Abode, Tirupati is one of the most famous pilgrimage spots of India. Spread over an area of 26km, the temple is very well known as the temple of 7 hills.
Highlights of the Tour:
- Begin your day with the darshan of the Lord Balaji early in the morning. Its best that you do e-booking of darshan before reaching Tirupati otherwise the queue of the pilgrims is maddening and might take the whole day to complete the darshan of Lord Venkateshwara.
Places to Visit:
- Sri Venkateshwara Temple
- Swami Pushkarini Lake
- Akasaganga Teertham
- Silathoranam
- Sri Venkateswara Dhyana Vignan Mandiram
Best Time to Visit:
- September to March
Peak Season:
- November to February
Nearest City:
- Tirupati
How to Reach:
- By flight, the Chennai Airport is the nearest which is at a distance of 98km
- By rail, the Tirupati Railway Station is well within the city and 15kmfrom the temple.
Language Spoken:
- Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, Hindi
Ideal Trip Duration:
- 1-2 days
21. Nainital, Uttarakhand:
Sitting on the foothills of Kumaon ranges of the Himalayas, Nainital is a charming hill station and a gem of Uttarakhand. Founded by the British and brimming with its elegant colonial structure, Nainital is a perfect weekend getaway from the capital city of Delhi.
Highlights of the Tour:
- Day 1: Reach Nainital and take some rest. In the evening explore the local market
- Day 2: Begin your day with the blessings of Goddess Naina Devi, a very powerful Shakti Peeth just 1.8kmfrom the main town. Later visit the Naini Zoo
- Day 3: Head off to explore some of the famous and picturesque locations in Nainital such as the Tiffin Top, Snow View Point, Eco Garden Caves. The best time to visit Naini Lake is after 4 p.m. where you can indulge in some boating excursions.
Places to Visit:
- Eco Cave Gardens
- Naini Lake
- Naina Devi temple
- The mall road
- Snow View Point
- Tiffin Top
Best Time to Visit:
- Throughout the year
Peak Season:
- March to June
Nearest City:
- Dehradun
How to Reach:
- By air, the Pantnagar airport is the nearest airport which is just an hour’s drive from the city
- By train, the nearest railway station is the Kathgodham station which is 34km from Nainital.
Language Spoken:
- Garhwali and Kumaoni
Ideal Trip Duration:
- 2-3 days
See More: Famous Festivals of India
22. Mount Abu, Rajasthan:
Mount Abu is a beautiful hill station in Rajasthan. With its cool atmosphere and lush green surroundings, Mount Abu is one of the major tourist attractions in the State of Rajasthan.
Highlights of the Tour:
- Day 1: Arrive at Mount Abu and begin your day by enjoying some scrumptious breakfast in the city. After checking in the hotel, head for the Dilwara Temple and Trevor’s tank. Post lunch visit the Mount Abu museum and later on to head to the Nakki Lake.
- Day 2: Begin the day by visiting the Peace Park. Post lunch visit the Lucky’s Wax Museum. Later on, head to guru Shikhar to experience peace and tranquillity.
Places to Visit:
- Dilwara Temples
- Nakki Lake
- Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary
- Guru Shikhar
- Arbuda Devi Temple
- Achalgarh Village
Best time to Visit:
- October to March
Peak Season:
- November to June
Nearest City:
- Abu
How to Reach:
- The nearest airport is Udaipur Airport which is 210kmfrom the city.
- By Rail, the nearest railway station is Abu road which is well within the city.
Language Spoken:
- Rajasthani, Hindi, and English
Ideal Trip Duration:
- 2-3 days
23. Hyderabad, Telangana:
A city of Nizams and a combination of the old and new means Hyderabad, the Capital city of Telangana. This city showcases a perfect harmony between the old world charm that coexists with the rapidly growing commercialization. You can witness the ancient mosques and bazaars that are parallelized with the new offices and swanky new buildings. It gives you a glimpse of the city’s rich past while promising to stand strong for a better future.
Highlights of the Tour:
- Day 1: Reach Hyderabad by afternoon. Enjoy the famous Hyderabadi Biryani for Lunch. Visit Charminar and visit the local market. In the evening enjoy some lip-smacking chaat.
- Day 2: Head for the Birla Science Museum. Visit the Hussain Sagar lake. Don’t miss out on the Irani Chai in the evening and end the day with a visit to the Chowmahalla Palace.
- Day 3: Keep this day for a visit to the Ramoji Film city. There are numerous theme parks and adventure rides here. Don’t miss out on the NTR Garden and Lotus Pond.
Places to Visit:
- Ramoji Film City
- Chowmahalla Palace
- Hussain Sagar Lake
- Charminar
- Golconda Fort
- Salar Jung Museum
Best Time to Visit:
- September to March
Peak Season:
- November to February
Nearest City:
- Hyderabad
How to Reach:
- The Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Shamshabad is located 45km from the main city.
- If traveling by train, you may select Secundrabad Railway Station or Hyderabad Deccan railway Station as your point of drop down.
Language Spoken:
- Telugu
Ideal Trip Duration:
- 2-4 days
24. Jaipur, Rajasthan:
Known as the Pink City of India, Jaipur is the Capital city of Rajasthan. It is a part of the Golden Triangle, one of the most famous tourist circuits of India. Home to many UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Jantar Mantar, Amer Fort, Jaipur is home to many palaces and Forts. It is also known for mouth-watering delicacies such as Pyaaz Ki Kachori, DaalBati and Ghewar. With so much to do in Jaipur, it is important that you make the most out of your stay here at one of the best places to visit in India.
Highlights of the Tour:
- Day 1: Begin your tour with the sightseeing of all the famous places in the proximity such as Amer Fort, Jaigarh Fort, Sheesh Mahal, Nahargarh Fort. Enjoy the evening at Jal Mahal, an 1135 A.D. restaurant located in the Amer Fort.
- Day 2: Start your day with an authentic Rajasthani breakfast and then head to see the City palace followed by Hawa Mahal and Jantar Mantar which are very close by. Go for shopping at Baapu Bazaar and Johri Bazaar.
- Day 3: Go for a stroll at the Sisodia Rani KaBagh. Later in the day visit the Birla Temple which is famous for its grand architecture. Spend the evening at Chokhi Dhani.
Places to Visit:
- Hawa Mahal
- Amer Fort
- Jantar Mantar
- Nahargarh Fort
- Albert Hall Museum
- Jaigarh Fort
- Sisodia Rani KaBagh
Best Time to Visit:
- October to March
Peak Season:
- November to February
Nearest City:
- Jaipur
How to Reach:
- Jaipur is very well connected by air, rail, and road. You can choose any mode of transport to reach here.
Language Spoken:
- Rajasthani, Marwari, English, and Hindi
Ideal Trip Duration:
- 3-4 days
25. Lakshadweep:
The literal meaning of Lakshadweep is ‘Hundred thousand Islands.’ It is a city that hosts some of the most beautiful and mesmerizing beaches in India. Located some 400kmfrom the West coast of India in the Arabian Sea, Lakshadweep is the smallest Union territory of India. The real charm of the Lakshadweep Islands lies in its remoteness and is one of the most beautiful tourist places in India.
Highlights of the Tour:
- Day 1: Arrive at Agatti Airport. Travel to Bangaram Island by boat and check in the hotel.
- Day 2: Spend some mystical time on the island and indulge in some ayurvedic massage
- Day 3: Hike on the beaches, spend some time at the beach picking shells and making sand castles. Leave for Minicoy Island in the latter half of the day.
- Day 4: Explore the Minicoy Beach and enjoy some adventurous sports.
- Day 5: Stroll through the beach and island. Visit some local food joints and leave for the Agatti Airport in the night.
Places to Visit:
- Minicoy island
- Agatti Island
- Bangaram Island
- Kavaratti Island
- Kalpeni Island
Best Time to Visit:
- September to May
Peak Season:
- December to February
Nearest City:
- Agatti Island
How to Reach:
- Kochi is the gateway to Lakshadweep from where flight and boat to Lakshadweep Island can be taken.
- Agatti Island can be reached directly through the flight.
Language Spoken:
- Malayalam
Ideal Trip Duration:
- 5-6 days
26. Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra:
Famous for its strawberries, Mahabaleshwar is a hill station in the Western Ghats in Maharashtra. The city comprises of some ancient temples, lush green forest, hills, valleys, waterfalls and more. The enticing valleys with lovely views, serene lakes and scrumptious food to satisfy your taste buds is the best way to describe this city.
Highlights of the Tour:
- Day 1: Begin the day by visiting the various points such as Arthur’s seat, Elphinstone Point, etc. Post lunch visit Venna Lake and enjoy some boating and horse riding here.
- Day 2: Begin the day with a visit to the Wilson Point and Connaught Peak. Spend some time in the Mahabaleshwar market. On your way back take a stop at the Mapro Gardens.
Places to Visit:
- Elephant’s Head Point
- Chinaman’s falls
- Dhobi Waterfall
- Arthur’s seat
- Venna Lake
- Wilson Point
- Monkey Point
- Mapro Garden
Best Time to Visit:
- October to June
Peak Season:
- March to June
Nearest City:
- Pune
How to Reach:
- Pune International airport is the nearest airport which is around 100km from here.
- While the Warthar station is the nearest Railway Station, Pune station might be considered as the most convenient one from a connectivity point of view.
Language Spoken:
- Marathi, Hindi, English
Ideal Trip Duration:
- 2-3 days
27. Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh:
A city of Nawabs and Kebabs, Lucknow is the capital city of the largest state in India, Uttar Pradesh. Located on the banks of River Gomati, the tagline of the town reads ‘Muskuraiyankyukiaap Lucknow meinhai.’Rich in cultural heritage, Lucknow has a charm that is hard to resist.
Highlights of the Tour:
- Day 1: Begin your tour with exploring the Bara Imambara, ChotaImambara, and Rumi Darwaza. Explore the local market of Lucknow in the second half of the day
- Day 2: Plan a visit to the Clock Tower Dilkusha garden, Moti Mahal and Shah Najaf Imambara
- Day 3: Visit the Lucknow Zoo and the Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary. Explore the colorful markets in the evening before you say goodbye to this city
Places to Visit:
- Bara Imambara
- Hazratganj market
- Lucknow Zoo
- Chowk
- ChotaImambara
- Rumi Darwaza
Best Time to Visit:
- October to March
Peak Season:
- March and April
Nearest City:
- Lucknow
How to Reach:
- Lucknow is well connected to the other cities of the nation through air, rail, and road. So choose any mode of transport best suited to you.
Language Spoken:
- Hindi
Ideal Trip Duration:
- 2-3 days
28. Mumbai, Maharashtra:
Mumbai is known as the financial capital of India. It is the City of Dreams with a spectacular paradox of chaos and hopes, modernity and tradition, glamor and squalor, old and new. It is known for its cultural diversity and different lifestyles. Mumbai is a dynamic city which is running for years only on the indomitable spirit of its inmates the Mumbaikars.
Highlights of the Tour:
- Day 1: Begin your day from the first focal point of tourism that is the Regal Cinema Circle which will take you to Colaba Causeway and the Gateway of India.
- Day 2: Catch the lifeline of Mumbai, the local train to go to the Koli Fishing village at Cuffe Parade. From the town go to the Fort District. Later in the day visit the Mahalaxmi Temple and Haji Ali Dargah.
- Day 3: Visit some of the attractive destinations of Mumbai and the various Bollywood Studios.
Places to Visit:
- Marine Drive
- Gateway of India
- Colaba Causeway
- Juhu Beach
- Siddhivinayak Temple
- Haji Ali Dargah
Best Time to Visit:
- October to February
Peak Season:
- October to February
Nearest City:
- Mumbai
How to Reach:
- Mumbai is well connected to all the cities of the country and the world through air and rail.
Language Spoken:
- Marathi, Hindi, English, Gujarati
Ideal Trip Duration:
- 3-5 days
29. Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir:
Lying on the banks of River Jhelum and the capital city of Jammu and Kashmir, Srinagar is truly a paradise on earth. The cool and pleasant climate here all around the year contributes to the perpetual influx of tourists to this city. The first thing that you should do as soon as you reach Srinagar is to close your eyes and breathe in the fresh and rejuvenating mountain air.
Highlights of the Tour:
- Day 1: Arrive at Srinagar and check into the hotel. Take a trip to the floating gardens and Char Chinar in the evening through Shikara.
- Day 2: Visit the Shankaracharya Temple and Pari Mahal
- Day 3: Visit the Mughal Garden, Nishat Garden, and Shalimar Garden
Places to Visit:
- Dal Lake
- Mughal Gardens
- Nishat Bagh
- Shalimar Bagh
- Shikara Ride
- Hazratbal Shrine
Best Time to Visit:
- April to October
Peak Season:
- April to October
Nearest City:
- Srinagar
How to Reach:
- To reach Srinagar by train, the nearest station is Jammu Tawi Railway Station.
- The Srinagar Airport is the nearest Airport to reach Srinagar. It is 15kmfrom the center of the city
Language Spoken:
- Kashmiri, Ladakhi, Dogri, Hindi
Ideal Trip Duration:
- 3-5 days
30. Jaisalmer, Rajasthan:
Located in the Thar Desert and close to the Pakistan Border, Jaisalmer is one of the major tourist spots in Rajasthan. It is also called as the Golden city because of the boundless Golden Sand Dunes. Jaisalmer is a city adorned with lakes, castles, havelis, and Jain temples. Go for sky gazing in the night in this golden land to get an experience of a lifetime.
Highlights of the Tour:
- Day 1: Visit the Jaisalmer Fort Palace museum which has been built out of golden stones. With the help of the self-guided audio tour, it takes a couple of hours to properly cover the entire museum.
- Day 2: Book a full day Desert Safari.
- Day 3: Have a nice relaxed day and visit the Jaisalmer local market.
- Day 4: Visit the Jain Temples in the first half and Anar Sagar Lake in the second half.
Places to Visit:
- Desert Safari in Jaisalmer
- Jaisalmer Fort
- Gadisar Lake
- Jain Temples
- Tazia Tower and Badal Palace
- Kuldhara Village
Best Time to Visit:
- October to March
Peak Season:
- November to March
Nearest City:
- Jodhpur
How to Reach:
- The Best way to reach Jaisalmer is by train
- The airport at Jaisalmer is a military airport and only accepts Chartered flights. The nearest airport open for public is Jodhpur airport which is 300 km away, and one needs to take a cab from there to reach Jaisalmer.
Language Spoken:
- Rajasthani
Ideal Trip Duration:
- 3-5 days
India is a beautiful country with a vast demographic and topographic diversity. From hill stations to beaches, to jungles to deserts you can all experience them all right here in India. It is not required to travel abroad to experience the beauty of nature, and it can be very well experienced right here in our own country. So next time when you are planning to travel, do not forget to consider these top 30 Important tourist places in India and get mesmerized by this beautiful country of our own.
