The Best Places to Visit in India

Best Places To Stay

Agra • Bengaluru • Chennai • Delhi • Goa • Jaipur • Jodhpur • Kolkata • Mumbai

Where to Go in India

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The statistics of India`s demographics, infrastructure, and urban landscape signify exceptionally massive scales and remarkably diverse aspects that are astonishing to consider: approximately one hundred thirty five crore individuals (roughly one in every six globally); twenty two languages acknowledged in the constitution (and hundreds more spoken); six major faiths, like the second largest Muslim population worldwide; an extensive railway network employing near fifteen lakh personnel; and some of the most densely crowded metropolises on earth.

The variety of spots to tour across India is likewise amazing, but when planning:
• Choose the optimal time to travel to India with consideration for weather conditions: crowds, heat, rain and monsoon season, snow and passable roads, and even fog
• An abundant Mediterranean lunch accompanied by unlimited wine, beer, and drinks is offered • Book quality hotels to escape the crowds, traffic, pollution, and poverty that can sometimes overwhelm even the most experienced travelers.

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Situated among the towering Himalayas furthest to the northeast is the colonial `summer capital` of Darjeeling, else renowned for its tea plantations. Along the western edge of these mighty mountains though remarkably dissimilar is Ladakh, packed with Buddhist temples and Tibetan monasteries tiered along cliffs and mountaintops. More accessible (like via the incredible `toy train`), the charming hill station of Shimla is dotted with colonial-era buildings.

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The Best Places to Stay in India

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Where to Travel in India for…

  • Where to Stay in India for Beaches: Goa
    Goa, the smallest state in India, holds long beaches with beautiful coves containing white sand and bamboo cafes providing affordable beer and spectacular sunsets. The lifestyle is as relaxing as other parts of Southeast Asia, contrasting heavily with India`s overbuilt and overcrowded cities. Vast stretches of empty sand can still be found, though less so in the busiest times of December and January, as many visitors also come to enjoy watersports, outdoor activities like paragliding, beach raves, and yoga retreats.
  • Where to Stay in India for Outdoor Activities: Kerala
    The slender beaches in this southwestern state offer numerous water activities, including parasailing and surfing for varying skill levels, as well as scuba diving especially around the islands located 300km offshore. The famous interconnected waterways and canals can be explored through traditional houseboats, while those with high levels of fitness may prefer canoes and others may opt for cheaper public ferries. National parks housing diverse wildlife such as elephants, tigers, crocodiles as well as peaceful deer and monkeys allow exploration via jeep safaris, lake cruises, or guided walking tours.
  • Where to Stay in India for Scenic Views: Ladakh
    Being surrounded by the majestic Himalayan mountain range, the landscape around this remote region in India`s far northwest is highly distinctive compared to other parts of the country. Imagine whitewashed religious buildings and centuries-old temples precariously positioned atop mountain peaks where shaved-headed novice Buddhist monks dressed in orange robes and school-aged children layered with multiple jumpers use ropes and pulleys to traverse extraordinarily deep valleys. With little rainfall, the landscape is also remarkably arid, though occasional fields prosper with unusual flowers and trees. And the isolation will ensure that little ever changes; because of the extreme weather, the road connections between Ladkah and the rest of India are usually impassable for approximately 6 months each year, and even the airport sometimes closes.
  • Where to stay in India for national parks: Kerala.

    • India houses an admirable variety of national parks though many are difficult to access and frequently frustrating to explore. Renowned for its shorelines and inland waterways, this southwestern state also consists of several wildlife refuges which can be reached reasonably. Roving within the frequently overlooked hills, which may be surveyed by jeep safaris or guided hikes, are wild elephants, tigers, monkeys, and deer. Additional reserves amid wetlands protecting birds, otters, and turtles can be appreciated by boat.

  • Where to Stay in India for Spirituality: Varanasi
    Varanasi, one of the most mystical cities worldwide, extends along the holy banks of the Ganges River. It attracts countless devout pilgrims and more ordinary Hindus who go to temples, pray, meditate, make offerings, and bathe in the river to cleanse themselves of sins. Many foreigners – devout or not, Hindu or Christian – are drawn to this city of 2 million to witness the incredible spectacles; join the various yoga, meditation, and religious classes and retreats; and to attend numerous spiritual festivals.
  • Where to Stay in India for Yoga & Meditation: Goa
    While the profoundly religious may journey to the sacred city of Varanasi in Hinduism (see above) or the Buddhist monasteries in Ladakh`s Himalayan region, others are likely to enhance their spiritual awareness and better their mental and physical condition while in Goa, likely because the state has such a relaxed and accessible environment. All sorts of improvised and organized yoga and meditation classes alongside Ayurvedic massages and different therapies are provided along the scenic coast. An increasing number of specialized retreats are being built annually, with some offering resort-like amenities and others supplying more eco-friendly guest houses.
  • Where to Stay in India for Pre-Colonial History: Agra
    So many remnants of Indian history before the British arrived in the early 17th century were destroyed during the Raj era or completely neglected beyond repair since. In Agra, many majestic pre-colonial buildings not only remain but have been beautifully restored and are lovingly maintained. Home to the Taj Mahal, built by a heartbroken Mughal emperor, visitors should also visit Agra Fort and the ancient city of Fatehpur Sikri nearby, as well as various other tombs, mausoleums, mosques, and gardens that pre-date the arrival of British colonialists. What’s more, all sites are easily accessible – often within walking distance of numerous hotels.
  • Where to Stay in India for Colonial History: Delhi
    Although the British initially came to India in the early seventeenth century, Delhi was not constructed as the imperial capital until 1911, and was then abandoned less than 40 years later. During this brief period, an entire city called New Delhi was planned by the still-esteemed architect, Edwin Lutyens. Cool, expansive roadways radiating from the round financial/business hub still have imperial-style hotels and bungalows lining them. Must-sees around the city include the India Gate war memorial, Rashtrapati Bhavan presidential residence, Connaught Place and its trendy boutiques and fashionable bistros, and many well-kept gardens and museums. With infinitely more traffic and pollution than anyone could possibly envision 100 years ago, these colonial-era sights are easily accessible, often using the sleek new subway system.
  • Where to Stay in India for Shopping: Jaipur
    Every village and town possesses a lively marketplace predominantly offering vegetables, and all cities house at minimum one shopping center providing Western products. However, for a truly authentic experience, visit Jaipur, nicknamed the ‘Pink City’ due to the hue of structures throughout the vast 18th century heart of the Rajasthan capital. Visitors can immerse in genuine slices of conventional commerce: spice bazaars that have scarcely altered in 200 years, camels transporting dates and figs across the desert, and winding lanes overflowing with stalls specializing in regional goods across India. Popular souvenirs comprise handwoven rugs, leather items, tie-dyed fabrics, unique Rajasthani shoes known as jutti, and chiefly gemstones
  • Where Families Can Remain in India: Goa
    With such abundance of sand, sea, and sunshine, India`s smallest state is understandably a hugely popular destination for families – including Indians who travel there from across the country, especially nearby Mumbai. While resorts and larger hotels may not offer kids’ programs (often modest) or sizable children’s pools (usually enclosed) as appealingly as locations in Bali and Thailand, some do provide bicycle rentals and day trips. For younger visitors, the primary attractions could simply involve swimming and enjoying watersports along the wide, clean, and (mostly) unfilled beaches. Parents may also value the lack of air pollution, crowds, and traffic that plagues Indian cities, as well as the inexpensive beer and mouthwatering Goan cuisine including meats and seafood.
  • Best Places in India for Food & Restaurants: Mumbai
    With an extended population nearly equal to that of Australia, the variety and number of places to eat in Mumbai is simply staggering. Thankfully, a wonderful selection of restaurants can be found in compact and tourist-focused areas such as the historic hub of Colaba and the affluent esplanade of Marine Drive. Along with French-style delicatessens, Italian-influenced bistros, and US-style pizza joints, Mumbai is an ideal place to try street food. This is often distinct from, and more authentic and less expensive than, westernized versions of curries and biryanis offered at hotel restaurants.
  • (615) 327-8000 – online portal for the hotel

    • For a similar rationale behind why India`s most populous city offers a superior variety of cuisines and dining establishments, the nightlife in Mumbai is also particularly vibrant – and progressively more so as the number of more affluent occupants increases. Well-heeled locals familiar with the unfriendly public transportation system may flock to trendy nightclubs in the suburbs, but visitors can enjoy a more convenient range of evening activities – from sipping cocktails at a glamorous hotel along the inner-city waterfront to chatting over coffee in downtown Colaba. Others may check out a Bollywood movie (probably made in or near the city) or attend a cultural event during one of the numerous festivals often held in downtown.

  • Top Location in India for Atmosphere & Culture: Varanasi
    The vast majority of India`s immense population adheres (often strictly) to the Hindu faith, which plays an integral role in much of the country`s cultural traditions and daily life. Nowhere is this more evident than in the sacred city of Varanasi located along the revered Ganges River. Travelers from overseas flock there to witness devotees partaking in Hindu rituals, such as bathing in the river, cremating the deceased, and offering gifts to the river and the multitude of temples. Winding alleyways overflow with market stalls selling an eclectic mix of authentic and imitation items not typically found elsewhere. Regardless of religion or beliefs, many visitors remain longer than intended, attracted by the history, atmosphere, and intense spirituality of the city, and perhaps to take part in classes on meditation, yoga, or philosophy.
  • Where to Stay in India for Festivals: Jodhpur
    The bigger cities may host more festivals but they are often aimed specifically at locals which could pose linguistic and cultural barriers, plus some suburbs they take place in may be hard to access. In contrast, the spectacularly `Blue City` of Jodphur proposes a selection of fascinating festivals, generally intended for visitor enjoyment. These incorporate celebrations focused around Rajasthan music, dance, and games, like a polo meet featuring camels. Moreover, numerous are held in the majestic 16th century Mehrangarh Fort situated on a rocky hilltop overlooking the blue-washed historical city
  • Most Romantic Locale in India: Udaipur
    Nicknamed the `Land of the Kings`, the desert state of Rajasthan in India is home to camel markets, magnificent forts, and the most romantic city in the country – Udaipur. Built in the 16th century, the setting is superb with a scenic lake (ideal for boating exploration) and forests providing a backdrop admired from horseback. The city contains extraordinary historic architectural examples including royal palaces, hilltop temples and busy marketplaces. Unlike other cities, it maintains a compact size permitting exploration on foot. Additionally, the winding alleys and shoreline of the lake hold charming guest lodgings with a notable sense of history, intimacy and elegance not found elsewhere in India.
  • Best Place in India for First Timers: Goa
    Popular since the 1960s with people from other countries, the laidback state of Goa has much less crowds, traffic, poverty, and pollution compared to the rest of India. Adding to the appeal for first timers are beaches that are wide, clean, often uncrowded, and usually safe for swimming, and a variety of Indian and Western cuisine dominated by meat and fish. The more developed areas provide plenty of tourist amenities within walking distance of hotels and most are connected by public bus – the sole bus service in India recommended for any visitor, whether first time or not. Goa is also the only location in the country where it’s entirely feasible to rent a car or motorbike.
  • Safest Area in India: Goa
    Pollution, traffic congestion, and petty criminal offenses, which are prevalent in India`s more densely populated cities, are less problematic in Goa. While some tourists do find themselves in trouble, e.g. swimming in rough surf or taking drugs at rave parties, India`s smallest state is far less crowded because, in reality, the main danger anywhere in India may simply stem from walking along sidewalks (which are mostly nonexistent) and crossing roads. It is always important to remember: unlike in western nations, pedestrians do not have the right of way here.

The 15 Best Destinations in India for Tourists

a sandy beach with palm trees and a body of water

1. Goa

India’s prime beach region offers a relaxing lifestyle distinct from the overdeveloped and crowded areas found elsewhere in India. Many visit for the endless sunshine (except during the wet season of June-September) and the wide, clean, and often empty beaches, peppered with bamboo cafes supplying cheap beer and stunning sunsets. Other guests (including families) lengthen their stays more than intended after participating in a yoga retreat, enjoying watersports or becoming enchanted by the all-night beachfront parties. The unique Portuguese colonial history, which resulted in Christianity becoming dominant in the state, is most evident around the old section of the capital city Panaji. The slender alleys overflow with charming family-run lodgings, whitewashed churches and other beautifully renovated buildings painted in the bright hues synonymous with Goa.

2. Kerala

Along Kerala`s southwest coast, beaches invite relaxation as pleasantly as those in Goa yet with significantly fewer crowds. An impressive array of outdoor activities ranges from surfing to scuba diving. However, this state is more renowned for its extensive network of over 900km of canals and backwaters best explored via houseboat, though kayaking or public ferries also afford scenic views. Additionally, visitors enjoy the spicy yet tasty cuisine, relaxed towns, and wildlife reserves/tea plantations accommodating jeep safaris, lake cruises, and guided hikes.

3. Agra

This lesser highlighted city is home to the Taj Mahal – a Mughal ruler`s heartbroken memorial to his departed wife – and India`s most recognizable structure rarely fails to impress. While numerous day-trippers come from Delhi, staying in Agra allows time to truly capture the Taj`s grandeur and history from rooftop cafes providing perspectives (albeit distant and blocked) after dark and additional visits at the unique (and less busy) times of sunrise or sunset. Often overlooked, yet just 2km from the Taj, Agra Fort would be a primary attraction in any other city, while nearby is the extraordinary ancient city of Fatehpur Sikri. Thankfully, these attractions and the various pre-colonial tombs, mausoleums, mosques, and gardens around Agra are easily accessible, regularly on foot or even rented bicycle.

4. Jodhpur

This 15th-century desert city in the historic state of Rajasthan is known by the nickname the ‘Blue City’ because of the many homes, hotels, and shops painted in shades of the namesake hue. Perched on a rocky hilltop towering above the winding alleys of the medieval-looking Old City is the extraordinary 16th-century Mehrangarh Fort which offers remarkable perspectives, numerous festivals, and a fascinating museum. Allow ample time to explore the maze-like lanes, admire the breathtaking fort from a rooftop café/bar, and stay at one of the attractively-renovated and centuries-old havelis (guesthouses).

5. Udaipur

Particularly inviting and famously romantic is the 16th-century city of Udaipur in southern Rajasthan, the ‘Land of the Kings’. Visitors frequently remark about the sublime setting: alongside a sparkling lake that can be explored by boat and surrounded by pristine forested hills that invite horseback rides. More manageable than most Indian cities, especially on foot, Udaipur is packed with gorgeous palaces, hilltop temples, and captivating museums. A highlight would be staying in a historic and elegant guesthouse alongside the lake, while the vibrant markets, rich artistic culture, and proximity to the desert greatly enhance the appeal.

6. Jaipur

Part of the revered ‘Golden Triangle’ that interests travelers, including Agra noted for the Taj Mahal and Delhi the Indian capital, Jaipur is nicknamed the ‘Pink City’ after the colors widely painted on structures and barriers within the 18th-century inner city. The numerous points of interest of the Rajasthan capital involve imposing palaces, imperial forts, and authentic markets where spices unfamiliar in the West are bundled high, buckets of figs are carried by camels, and merchants offer an extraordinary assortment of other goods from across the nation. This chaotic yet charismatic city surrounded by hills in the scorching desert is also a hotbed of Rajasthan culture, cuisine, and music, and an ideal place to coordinate tours of the camel markets for which the state called the ‘Land of the Kings’ is legendary.

a city street filled with lots of tall buildings

7. Delhi

For numerous people, the nation`s capital is just a stopping point for the Taj Mahal in Agra or palaces around Rajasthan, but Delhi deserves exploration. It boasts a wealth of mesmerizing remnants of a city overcome, looted, and destroyed by a dozen empires over various centuries – from Muslim shrines to British hotels and a majestic Mughal fortress recognized by UNESCO. In reality, Delhi is truly two cities: Old Delhi, home to impossibly overcrowded railway stations and markets as well as pre-colonial temples, tombs, and mosques, and, in contrast, New Delhi, the purpose-built capital with broad avenues and expansive parks. The city is a melting pot of India’s many cultures, cuisines, faiths, and languages, and the facilities, particularly the subway system and museums, are arguably the country’s finest.

8. Darjeeling

Squeezed between Nepal and Bhutan, this surprisingly petite town covers numerous mountain ridges rising 2,000m along the Himalayan rim. With a mild and dry summer that coincides with the heat, humidity, and monsoon affecting the plains of Delhi and Kolkata, Darjeeling developed as a hill station and ‘summer capital’ during the colonial era and remains a welcome respite for many. As well as an inconceivable number of guesthouses, Darjeeling offers vast panoramas of the permanently snow-capped mountains and vibrant-green tea plantations for which the area is also famous. Still accessible by road and air during the harsh winter, and especially romantic over Christmas, its added attractions are the colorful Buddhist monasteries, valley-stretching cable car, and outdoor activities such as rafting, hiking, and horse-riding.

9. Ladakh

Located in the far northwest of India, Ladakh lies along the Himalayas and surprisingly near to China and Pakistan yet remains perfectly safe. The region and its capital Leh contain many Buddhist shrines and Tibetan monasteries situated magnificently along mountainsides and atop peaks. Reliably only accessible via road from June to September, and sometimes not by air during the intense winter from November to February, the landscape resembles that of the moon and lends itself well to adventurous activities such as river rafting and mountain ascending.

10. Varanasi

India’s most sacred city also asserts being one of the oldest sites on the planet. Strikingly positioned along the revered Ganges River, it teems with pilgrims and others who embrace Hinduism, and oozes a culture and spiritual vibe rarely so evident elsewhere. From the expansive steps (ghats) alongside the venerated river, thousands pray, make offerings, bathe in the consecrated water, and even cremate the deceased. Local and foreign visitors soak in this irresistible spirituality by touring temples; joining classes in yoga, meditation, or philosophy; and attending numerous festivals. The old section overflows with market stalls selling items different to the rest of India, and the hordes include thousands of devout ascetics, recognizable by their dreadlocks, painted faces, and saffron-colored robes.

11. Mumbai

While many travelers avoid major Indian cities, solely using them as gateways for locations with less air pollution, crowds, and traffic jams, these bustling metropolises do offer much history and numerous sights, amenities, and festivals. India’s finest city, Mumbai, is also the country’s largest. With a population of 22 million (and continuing to grow), this significant colonial-era outpost boasts wonderful historic places, majestic hotels, and a suburban beach nearly as good as some in Goa. Although home to discouraging shantytowns, the city does provide a range of upscale eateries, boutique shops, and bars comparable to anywhere in Asia, but local public transportation is limited for visitors. The multiple metro lines under construction across the city should begin operations by 2022.
Note: Mumbai was impacted by a series of terrorist attacks in 2008, but the targeted buildings have since been rebuilt and the city recovered rapidly. As expected, security measures in major hotels and transport hubs in Mumbai, as well as other major cities, are stringent.

12. Shimla

The region of Himachal Pradesh spans from the often sweltering lowlands to the snowy foothills of the Himalayan mountain range. More accessible than the mountainous areas of Darjeeling and Ladakh (see #7), the capital city, Shimla, remains over 2,200 meters high. This former ‘summertime capital’ of British India and current hill station offers stately mansions, crumbling lodges, and other remnants of the Raj era such as quaint tea rooms and vibrant green cricket fields. For many, the attractions are the mountain panoramas and the remarkable Toy Train, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, that starts about halfway to Shimla from Delhi. Others come for the cleaner air and milder climate, although Shimla doesn’t escape the monsoon (July-September) or snow (January-March).

13. Kolkata

This bustling city is the capital of West Bengal, a fiercely independent state that considers itself as India`s literary and academic hub. As the capital of British India for approximately 140 years, Kolkata boasts an impressive cathedral, the nation`s oldest museum, and one of the largest urban parks worldwide, however there are no temples or mosques predating British occupation. Dubbed the `City of Joy`, it is incredibly contrasting: unimaginable slums are adjacent to swanky boutiques; gleaming skyscrapers tower over crumbling colonial buildings; and implausibly crowded markets swarm with relaxed, friendly individuals. Whether stopping on the way to charming mountain areas like Darjeeling, or shopping for saris and terracotta goods for which Kolkata is renowned, allow enough time to endure (and recover from) the persistent assault on your senses.

    West of the Römerberg stands St. Leonhardskirche, a medieval church that survived World War II and therefore feels much more authentic than others in the Old Town. Nearby is the Frankfurt Archaeological Museum, located within the beautiful Carmelite Church and Monastery though exploring it can be tedious. Finally, on the boundary between the Altstadt and the modern city center (Innenstadt) is Goethe-Haus, the birthplace and childhood home of Germany’s most renowned writer, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. The museum complex includes the relatively new Deutsche Romantik-Museum, which delivers an excellent and interactive overview of the European Romantic Movement of the late 18th century.

  • High-quality Small Hotels and Moderate Priced Accommodations: Ivy House • Kenilworth • Sonnet • Senator • Astor • Calcutta Bungalow
  • Recommended Affordable Accommodations: Elgin Fairlawn • Red Arrow Residency • Palm Aryan • Moira • Elite

14. Bengaluru

Although not as renowned as the coastal metropolis of Mumbai or as attractive a beach destination as Goa, Bengaluru is still regarded as one of India’s most dynamically growing cities. Locals and visitors value the extensive green spaces like parks and lakes that contribute to the moniker ‘Garden City’, as well as its culture influenced more by Western values and generally pleasant climate with less intense humidity and torrential monsoon downpours experienced in other parts of southern India. Reflecting its position as state capital and status as a center for information technology in the country, amenities abound, while the lavish English-inspired palace and variety of activities outdoors offer additional motivations to stay. Furthermore, Bengaluru functions quite effectively as a transportation hub for the array of national parks found across the region.

15. Chennai

Nested along the steamy southeast coast, Chennai is the capital city of Tamil Nadu, a state with a proud history, unique language, and flourishing film industry. The city also takes pride in maintaining the sorts of traditional art forms and culture as well as pre-colonial heritage that seem to have been abandoned elsewhere. While attractions are limited – though they do include a beautifully restored British fort, India`s oldest church, and a surprisingly undeveloped beach – Chennai is pleasingly easy to explore: the airports and train stations are convenient, the people are welcoming, and the metro system is well designed. Additionally, with a lack of tourists (Indian and foreign) compared to Mumbai, Goa, or Kerala, Chennai is certainly a worthwhile stopover, if only as an entry point to the state’s delightful hill stations and majestic national parks.

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Welcome to my travel website! I’m Mary Howard, an American who has been exploring the world full-time for 8 years.

Together with my husband, Intan, we often find ourselves in our second home, Bali, but our adventures take us to exciting destinations all over the globe.

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