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

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

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

Best for Monuments: Delhi

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

Best Iconic: Taj Mahal

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

Best Temple: Golden Temple

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

Best Regal Splendor: Udaipur

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

Best Ruins: Hampi

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

Best for History and Architecture: Ajanta and Ellora Caves

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

Best for Spirituality: Varanasi

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

Best for Culture: Kolkata

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

Best for South Indian Culture: Madurai

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

Best for Tribal Culture: Northeast India

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

Best for Relaxation: Kerala Backwaters

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

Best for Beaches: Goa

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

Best for Wildlife: Kanha National Park

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

Best for Adventure: Spiti

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

Best Offbeat: Kutch Region of Gujarat

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

Best Up and Coming: Odisha

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

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15 Best Places to Visit in India, According to Travel Experts

From the alpine meadows of Kashmir to the palm-fringed beaches of Goa, these are some of the subcontinent’s most enchanting destinations.

Margot Bigg is a freelance travel writer and editor who has spent most of her adult life traveling and living overseas. Her favorite topics include India travel, experiential travel, wellness, hotels, and the arts. When not on the road, Margot enjoys studying languages, discovering new music, taking pictures of random cats, and planning her next adventures.

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As a former longtime Delhiite and frequent traveler to India, people often ask me what the country is like. I never know how to respond, for trying to sum up a nation as vast and diverse as India feels impossible. So, instead, I asked a few experts for their insights.

“If you visit India, you feel you have visited several countries, as every part is different,” says Mohd Shafi Billo, an inbound tour operator who specializes in helping international travelers plan their trips to the country. “It’s an exceptional destination, thanks to its culture, history, and inclusiveness of different people from different faiths, and it has everything to offer, from forts to mausoleums, wildlife tours to mountain adventures.”  

Shoba Rudra, founder and partner at hospitality consultancy Rare India , agrees. “The country is living a dynamic moment in history, ever-changing,” she says. “What's constant, however, is the vibrant culture lived through its festivals, cuisine, heritage, crafts, and performing arts.”

While it would take years to see it all, India is an approachable destination — if you can narrow things down. With that in mind, here are 15 of the best places to get you started on your sojourn to the subcontinent.

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Stretching along the southernmost part of India’s Malabar Coast, the tropical state of Kerala entices visitors with its marshy backwaters, which most people visit on overnight houseboat adventures. These popular cruises “showcase lush landscapes and peaceful villages, and [give visitors] a glimpse into local life amid tranquil waters and picturesque surroundings,” says Billo. While the backwaters are a star attraction, the state offers much more to explore, from the tea plantations of Munnar, known for its cool climate and seemingly endless rolling hills, to the historic city of Kochi, celebrated in equal measure for its rich coastal history and contemporary art scene . The beaches aren’t too shabby, either. “North Kerala is also famous, as the Malabar Coast is where the spice trade flourished,” says Rudra. “The coastal area is picturesque and this region is still unexplored.”

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On the opposite end of the country from Kerala, Kashmir offers entirely different — but equally captivating — landscapes. With its alpine climate, evergreen trees, and snowy winters, Kashmir is often likened to a mini Switzerland . Famed 13th-century Sufi poet Amir Khusrau once proclaimed in Farsi, “If there is a paradise on earth, it is this,” and he may have been onto something. At the heart of it all is Srinagar, Kashmir’s capital city, which is known for its elegant gardens and watery centerpiece, Dal Lake. “Highlights include staying on a houseboat or taking a shikara [traditional Kashmiri boat] ride,” says Billo, who hails from the area. Don't leave without indulging in wazwan , an opulent, meat-heavy feast that can feature up to three dozen dishes in one sitting. 

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Occupying a high-altitude plateau in the northernmost reaches of India, Ladakh is characterized by otherworldly landscapes and big skies, punctuated by palatial stupas and monasteries. Many visitors come to Ladakh’s capital, Leh, during the short summer tourist season, but this surreal region offers plenty more to experience beyond the city. Billo suggests visiting the Nubra Valley, an isolated part of the old Silk Road that’s only accessible by crossing Khardung La, one of the world’s highest motorable passes. “The valley offers a glimpse into Ladakh's unique geography and cultural diversity with monasteries, quaint villages, and apricot orchards,” says Billo. The region is also rich with unusual wildlife, from elusive snow leopards to the scaled-down Bactrian camels that originated in the steppes of Central Asia.

Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

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On the banks of the sacred Ganges River, the holy city of Rishikesh has held a place in the hearts of spiritually minded travelers — both from India and abroad — for generations. It’s the self-proclaimed “yoga capital of the world,” with a mix of traditional ashrams (spiritual rest houses) that cater largely to Hindu pilgrims and yoga centers that attract international visitors with teacher-training courses and meditation retreats. If you’re not into yoga, you’ll still find plenty to do here. Popular activities include visiting the ruins of the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi’s ashram (dubbed the Beatles Ashram in honor of its most famous former residents) to whitewater rafting adventures on the mighty Ganges. It’s also a great place for a wellness getaway, and nearby Ananda in the Himalayas was voted one of Travel + Leisure readers' favorite international spas in 2023.

Auroville, Tamil Nadu

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If you’re looking for a place that’s unlike anywhere else in India — or, frankly, the world — head to the intentional community of Auroville in South India. This UNESCO-recognized global township was founded in the 1960s with the goal of "realizing human unity," beyond the illusory divisions of creed or nationality, and it's home to generations of residents from around the world. Many visitors come for an hour or two, just long enough to view Auroville’s spiritual center — the golden, dome-shaped Matrimandir . However, it’s worth sticking around a bit longer to get a feel for what the community is about. As Akash Kapur, who grew up in Auroville and authored " Better to Have Gone " and " India Becoming ," puts it: "Come to Auroville if you're interested in alternative societies, sustainable living, or spirituality, but try not to just drop in for a few hours (as many do), and instead spend some time here, really getting to know the people and their work. The community rewards sustained immersion."

Andaman Islands

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Although most people associate the crystalline waters of the Andaman Sea with Thai island getaways, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in this tropical region are under Indian control. This little stretch of paradise is full of gorgeous shorelines, but most visitors devote their vacations to the island of Swaraj Dweep (formerly known as Havelock). The most popular beach on the island is Radhanagar Beach , which offers just over a mile of white sand sandwiched between tropical jungle and warm, transparent waters. Getting to this remote island requires a bit of gumption: You'll need to fly from the Indian mainland to Port Blair on South Andaman Island, then catch a ferry or charter a seaplane for the final stretch. While visitors are welcome on many islands in the chain, a few — including secluded North Sentinel Island — are off-limits. 

While many travelers see India’s capital as a jumping-off point for visiting further-afield destinations, it’s worth sticking around for a while to truly appreciate what Delhi has to offer. There’s certainly never a dull moment in this busy metropolis, whether you’re shopping for handicrafts at one of its numerous markets or learning about medieval and Mughal history at one of its three UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Humayun's Tomb, Qutb Minar, and Red Fort. Although Delhi is undeniably rambunctious, it also has a quieter, more peaceful side that you can find amidst the trees and 15th-century tombs of Central Delhi’s Lodi Gardens or in the quiet interiors of the Baháʼí Lotus Temple.

Taj Mahal, Agra, Uttar Pradesh

Many travelers to India put the 17th-century Taj Mahal at the top of their list. This white marble mausoleum is easily India’s most recognizable structure — and it’s one of the New Seven Wonders of the World . This popular attraction also has a romantic backstory. “This iconic symbol of love is renowned for its architectural beauty, intricate marble work, and the captivating story behind its creation by emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal,” notes Billo. The bodies of the emperor and his wife remain interred in the Taj to this day. 

Jaipur. Rajasthan

The capital of Rajasthan and one-third of North India’s popular Golden Triangle tourist route (which also includes Agra and Delhi), Jaipur is a must-visit for those who love architecture and shopping. “The Pink City, as it's nicknamed, offers a rich cultural heritage, stunning [landmarks] like Amber Fort, vibrant bazaars, and intricate handicrafts,” says Billo. Many of Jaipur's key attractions are found in the historic walled part of the city, which became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2019. Highlights include Jantar Mantar (a collection of oversized — and fully functional — astronomical instruments dating to the 17th century) and Hawa Mahal, or Palace of the Winds, a honeycomb-shaped palace designed with tiny windows that allowed air to flow freely through its interior.

Jodhpur, Rajasthan

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Dubbed the Blue City because of the cerulean-colored buildings that extend for miles through the oldest part of town, Jodhpur has long attracted travelers eager to explore the ramparts of the larger-than-life Mehrangarh Fort. It’s also home to the grandiose Umaid Bhawan Palace , which made headlines in 2018 when Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas tied the knot there. While Jodhpur’s beautiful, regal architecture is reason enough to visit, there’s more to the city than massive forts and grand palaces. “The area around the Toorji ka Jhalra stepwell in the old city is fun to explore,” says hotelier Sapna Bhatia, owner of Kaner Retreat and Jodhpur-area native. “For nature enthusiasts, there’s the Rao Jodha desert park near Mehrangarh Fort.”

Udaipur, Rajasthan

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T+L readers' favorite city in Asia and second favorite city in the world , Udaipur very much fits the bill of a fairy tale destination. Nicknamed the City of Lakes, thanks to its seven lakes, this gorgeous destination is home to some of India's finest luxury hotels plus historic whitewashed palaces, including the magnificent City Palace, an 11-palace complex that houses hotels, a huge museum with an impressive collection of European crystal, and a royal residence. A short boat ride from the palace lies the 18th-century Taj Lake Palace, an opulent palace-turned-hotel in the middle of Lake Pichola. It’s a quick drive from The Oberoi, Udaivilas , a purpose-built palatial hotel with onion-domed cupolas and a moat-like swimming pool that directly connects to some of the rooms.  

If you’re looking for a less-frequented, but no less amazing, alternative to more touristed states such as Rajasthan, consider Gujarat. “Under-explored but culturally rich, this state in India is a tapestry of festivals, textiles, architectural heritage, communities, and landscape,” says Rudra. Gujarat was also the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi, who led the Salt March, one of his most famous acts of peaceful protest, through the state in 1930. Rudra suggests visiting the National Salt Satyagraha Memorial , which “honors the activists through murals, installations, sculptures, art, and related film.” It's also worth checking out the Kutch district, known for its distinct metal bells , which were originally used for keeping track of livestock and are now popular as decorative wind chimes.

Kaziranga National Park, Assam

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The northeast Indian state of Assam is home to a treasure for wildlife enthusiasts: Kaziranga National Park . This expansive, UNESCO-listed wildlife refuge near the borders of Bangladesh and Bhutan has the largest population of Indian one-horned rhinoceroses on the planet, providing a home to roughly 2,000 of these massive beasts. Although rhinos are the star attraction on park safaris, all sorts of animals live here, including tigers, elephants, gibbons, sloth bears, and a small number of endangered Ganges River dolphins. 

Historic, glitzy, and positively gargantuan, Mumbai (formerly known as Bombay) is easily one of India’s most cosmopolitan destinations. This city by the sea is the nation's financial and entertainment capital, and while you’re unlikely to rub shoulders with Bollywood stars here, you're sure to see a lot of impressive attractions in very little time. Take a boat out to Elephanta Island to explore fifth– and sixth–century rock-hewn cave temples, marvel at the grand Indo-Saracenic architecture at Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus , or see thousands of clothes hanging out to dry at Dhobi Ghat, the world's largest open-air laundry. Then, head to the sleek neighborhood of Bandra West, where many of Mumbai’s best restaurants and hotels are located, including Taj Lands End, voted T+L readers' favorite city hotel in India in 2023.

India’s smallest state, Goa, is arguably its top beach destination, where long days of swimming and sunbathing turn into longer nights of partying on the sand. While Goa has been known as a hippie haven since the 1960s, it's started to shed its reputation in recent decades. It’s still very much a party state, though it also draws in families and couples in search of sea and sun, sans nightlife. It’s a great place for history buffs as well, with numerous seaside forts and UNESCO-recognized churches that were built when Goa was under Portuguese rule. And while the destination has always been loved for its fiery dishes that combine traditional Konkani ingredients with Portuguese influences, it has also emerged as a culinary hot spot , where a new generation of chefs is showcasing everything from Japanese yakitori to jackfruit tamales.

India Tours & Vacations

There’s probably no other country on the planet that blazes its way into your memory like India.

Years later, you can still hear the morning calls of the chai wallahs; see smoke curling over the Ganges during a golden Varanasi sunrise , and smell the rich aromas of simmering curry. A lot of India tours rush from highlight to highlight, ticking them off in a blur of temples and tikka. But not us. Our India holidays are more about spotting Bengal tigers in Ranthambhore or Panna National Park, hanging with nomads in Jaisalmer, meeting the holy men of Pushkar, or hunting down the best street eats. This isn’t just the India you see on postcards. This is India as it is. Raw, bizarre and totally addictive.

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Best time to visit india.

Due to India's size and topography, the climate varies from place to place but the best time to visit, generally speaking, is in the winter from December until early March. During the coolest months (December-January), temperatures can get quite cold in Delhi and in the north, especially at night. The whole country tends to get very hot from April onwards and most regions experience the summer from late May to around October. The summer offers hot and humid conditions, although this is considered one of the best times to visit Ladakh and the hills.

Learn more about the best time to visit India

Culture and customs

India is one of the world’s oldest civilizations with a culture steeped in ancient beliefs and traditions. Religion also plays a massive role in everyday life with 80% of the population practicing Hinduism while the remaining 20% is divided into Muslim (India has the world’s second-largest Muslim population), Christian, Sikhism and Buddhist populations.

At its core, India remains a deeply conservative nation; however, it has been touched by rapid modernization and Western influences in recent years. Some families still adhere to a traditional structure (especially in more rural areas) with generations living under the same roof, the eldest male at the head of the family and arranged marriages. But this is becoming less and less popular, particularly in larger cities, where Western ideas and societal shifts heavily influence the culture due to things like Bollywood films.

While some behavioral standards remain the same (public displays of affection are still taboo), it’s important to keep in mind that with more than one billion people speaking over 122 languages across 28 states and seven territories, it’s impossible to describe one unified culture for the entire nations and the character of India’s people can vary greatly from city to city.

Witness India's multi-faceted culture firsthand on a Delhi to Goa adventure - 15 days

Top places to visit in India

Surely there isn't a more iconic image of India than the Taj Mahal. It's spectacular and soul-stirring, but words simply aren't enough to describe the beauty of this immense mausoleum (even when it's packed with tourists). Best known as a monument to love and loss, the 17th-century building was built by Emperor Shah Jahan as a tomb for his second wife – a bold declaration of love, indeed! Wander around Agra on our 3 day Taj Mahal Extension or on our 15 day Real Kathmandu to Delhi tour.

2. Udaipur, Rajasthan

Welcome to Udaipur, India's most romantic city that could easily give Venice a run for its money. You'll undoubtedly fall in love as you explore its grand marble palaces, shimmering lakes, and winding alleys filled with cozy chai bars and dizzying bazaars. It's also a popular hub for Indian artists, dancers, and musicians whose talents will pull you deeper under Udaipur's spell. Get lost in the beauty of Udaipur on our 15 day Rajasthan Experience or on our 15 day Classic Rajasthan tour.

3. Ranthambhore National Park

Ranthambhore National Park was once a famous hunting ground for the Maharajas of Jaipur, but these days it's a haven for wildlife. Jump into a 4WD and search for Bengal tigers, hyenas, jackals, deer, langurs, marsh crocodiles and more. You can also hike up to the stunning ruins of the 10th-century fort or experience the peace and tranquillity of the ancient Ganesh temple (one of the oldest temples in India). Go wildlife spotting on our 14 day Premium India in Depth tour or on our 10 day Northern India Family Holiday.

4. Kerala Backwaters

Surrounded by tea and coffee plantations and connected by a series of blissful, palm-shaded backwaters, Kerala is a peaceful oasis deep within India's colorful chaos. Float along the dreamy waters of rural Kerala on a houseboat, paddle over to an island village on a pole boat for an overnight homestay with a local family, and enjoy traditional Keralan food served on a banana leaf. Explore the Kerala Backwaters on our 13 day Premium South India tour or on our 13 day Classic South India tour.

5. Varanasi

Varanasi is a place that will be etched in your memory long after your time in India is over. Uncover the stories and secrets of this holy city with your local guide, get lost in the laneways, cruise along the golden Ganges at dawn, or witness ancient religious traditions and groups of pilgrims praying in the river. Even if all you do in Varanasi is sit along the ghats and watch life go by, you'll walk away with countless stories to tell. Experience Varanasi's holiness on our 4 day Varanasi Homestay Extension , on our 11 day India Getaway or on our 11 day Real North India adventure.

This holy desert city is one of the main pilgrimage destinations for Hindus. Explore the bustling ghats and temples around Pushkar Lake, watch devout rituals and worship at the Brahma Temple, share a meal with a local family while learning about their life and culture, or hike up the hill to the beautiful Savitri Temple for unbeatable sunrise views over the town. Embark on a pilgrimage on our 22 day North India Revealed tour or on our 15 day Cycle Rajasthan tour.

Get ready for delicious bites and lots of Bollywood. Some say Mumbai is the food capital of India, and you'll see, smell and taste huge culinary diversity here that celebrates regional cuisines from across the country. You might also like to watch life go by at Dhobi Ghat (the world’s largest outdoor laundry), check out the Bollywood Walk of Fame, or explore the sprawling Crawford Market selling everything from fruit to jewelry. Snack your way through Mumbai on our 15 day India Real Food Adventure .

8. Dharamsala

The mountainous Himalayan town of Dharamsala, also known as McLeod Ganj, is home to the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan government in exile. Tibetan culture is central to life here and it won't take long for the town's calming, grounding energy to wash over you. Sip chai and watch robed monks strolling between the monasteries, listen to the prayer flags fluttering in the breeze, and visit the Dalai Lama’s temple. Soak up the Tibetan culture on our 13 day Mountains & Mystics of India tour.

9. Rishikesh

Not only is Rishikesh the yoga capital of the world, but it's also one of the best places to experience the sacred soul of the Ganges. Join a yoga or meditation class along the riverbanks, enjoy delicious vegetarian food in one of the many rooftop cafes, go white-water rafting down the Ganges for a different perspective of this holy river, or experience the nightly fire ritual known as Ganga Aarti at one of the city's dazzling temples. Meditate in Rishikesh on our 19 day Best of India tour.

Tinged with Portuguese influence (and flavors!), the state of Goa boasts lovely beaches, rich traditions, World Heritage-listed buildings and mouth-watering food. Kick back with a coconut (or cocktail), join a yoga class on the beach, visit a local spice farm to learn about some of the essential ingredients in Indian cuisine, or pick up fresh ingredients at the market and cook up a storm with a local Goan cook. Experience Goa on our 37 day Iconic India tour or on our 16 day South India Revealed tour.

The gorgeous pink stone buildings in Jaipur’s old town have earned the city its 'Pink City' nickname. Discover buzzing bazaars filled with handcrafted textiles and jewelry, dodge camel carts and rickshaws as you stroll through the streets, explore the oh-so-impressive Amber Fort, or visit the home of a local Brahmin family to learn about their culture and way of life over a delicious homemade meal. Marvel at Jaipur's pink-hued streets on our 8 day India's Golden Triangle tour or on our 12 day India Women's Expedition.

Home to the magnificent Mysore Palace and the birthplace of Ashtanga yoga, there's no denying Mysore is one of South India's most captivating cities. Lose yourself in the grandeur of the palace's ornately decorated rooms, marvel at the intricate Hoysala architecture of Keshava Temple, go on a hunt for the tastiest idli, or share a tasty biryani lunch with a local family. Explore Mysore on our 15 day Southern India tour.

Delhi is a place where ancient temples stand beside Bollywood billboard ads, people commute to work alongside sacred cows and monkeys, and pockets of peace exist within the chaos. The electric energy of India's capital city is palpable, and while it can take some getting used to, there's no denying the excitement of discovering new sights, sounds, tastes and smells at every turn – especially when you have a local leader by your side. Experience the chaos of Delhi on our 15 day Delhi to Kathmandu tour or on our 9 day North India Highlights tour.

14. Thar Desert, Rajasthan

Check another item off your bucket list as you travel across the pristine dunes of the Thar Desert on camelback, stopping at a few dhanis (small villages) along the way. When you reach your camp, enjoy dinner in the relaxing desert ambiance before sleeping in a comfy permanent tent under the stars. This desert safari is bound to be one of the main highlights of your adventure. Soak into the sand on our 16 day Real Rajasthan tour or on our 11 day Rajasthan Adventure .

Food and drink

Intrepid believes that one of the best ways to experience a country is by eating. Whether you're sampling street food, savoring a cheap eat or indulging in a banquet, there are endless options to choose from wherever you are in the world. Indian food is one of the world's most favored cuisines, and travelers will be in for a real treat when visiting India. Relying heavily on spices and vegetables, vegetarians will be delighted with the multitude of meat-free dishes available and visitors will be able to notice marked differences in the cuisines of each region.

Read more about Indian food

Read more about Indian drinks

Geography and environment

India shares land borders with   Bangladesh ,   China , Pakistan,   Nepal ,   Myanmar   and   Bhutan , and also has wide stretches of coastline along the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal and Indian Ocean. As the seventh largest country in the world, India is home to a variety of terrains - the Himalayas of the north, the deserts and plains of the west, the fertile waterways of the south and the hills and forests of the east. Development is occurring at a rapid pace, with India's large, sprawling cities consisting of everything from five star hotels to shanty towns, and with modern malls and cinemas sitting comfortably alongside bazaars and street food vendors. A trip through India will reveal a diverse range of landscapes, villages, cities and environments.

History and government

Early history.

Humans have inhabited India for as long as 75,000 years, with early civilizations flourishing as early as 3300 BC. Over the centuries, India both influenced and was influenced by other nations and kingdoms, with far-reaching trade, conquest and migration spreading the subcontinent's culture far and wide. Empires rose and fell over the centuries, with the wealthy Mughal Dynasty ruling most of India by 1600. At the same time, different European nations started showing an interest in India after being brought to the area for trade. The Portuguese, Dutch, British and French all had vested interests in India, with the British East India Company being given the rights to trade in India in 1617. The 1857 rebellion and War of Independence culminated in the decline of Mughal rule and were considered the first movements against the British Raj's heavy-handed rule of the country.

Recent history

By the 1920s, India's independence movement had grown considerably with Mohandas Gandhi leading mass movements based on passive resistance and non-cooperation against the British Raj. Although it took decades, India finally gained independence in 1947. More recently, India has seen dramatic societal changes mainly due to modernization and globalization. A new wave of prosperity has seen the rise of the middle class, with men and women entering into new work roles in telecommunications, manufacturing and business. India's large cities are dealing with the mass migration of rural citizens, who are moving to the city to seek better employment, education and opportunities for their children.

Top 10 sensory experiences of India

1. potent pleasures.

Breathe in the intoxicating aroma of fresh spices while wandering through the bustling markets of India. Cardamom, coriander, cinnamon and nutmeg are classic spices of the subcontinent and aren't hard to find - the fresh scent envelopes markets across the country.

2. Fiery flavours

Treat your tastebuds to the spicy flavors of India with a traditional aromatic curry. Indulge in the heady mix of coconut milk, chili, ginger, ghee and spices, then cool down by sipping on a refreshing Lassi - the perfect antidote to the unrelenting heat of an Indian curry.

3. Colourful chaos

Experience the urban cacophony of Delhi - a unique collision of cultures, cattle and people. Hear the rumble of cars, trucks and buses, the frantic calls of street vendors and hawkers, the sizzle of food and the rustic ring of a cow's bell in this unforgettable and irrepressible city.

4. In the pink

Admire the dazzling pink hues of Jaipur. Watch the historic palaces, forts, temples and monuments of the 'Pink City' be bathed in a dusky pink glow as the golden sun sets over the dramatic Aravalli Range.

5. Rat race

Walk barefoot through the Karni Mata Temple as thousands of rats scamper across the marble floor. Just felt a furry rodent scurry over your feet? Fear not - it's a sign of good luck in this unique rat-worshipping temple.

6. Instant karma

Experience the multi-sensory wonder of an Aarti ceremony on the banks of the Ganges. Hear the clanging of bells, watch the luminous glow of fire, smell wafts of pungent incense and hear rousing devotional songs and mantras. Be immersed in the fire and prayer of this Hindu ritual and be changed forever.

7. Gorgeous Goa

Sit beachside in Goa and gaze into the sublime beauty of the ocean. Take a moment to kick back and soak up the clear skies and deep blue sea of this exotic island. Watch the sun's rays shimmer on the horizon and bask in the golden glow of this balmy retreat.

8. Silky sophistication

For a slice of extravagance, feel the soft, luxurious touch of traditional Indian silk. Made in a variety of vibrant colors and perfect for making everything from saris to prayer mats and decorative hangings to upholstery, the inimitable feel of finely crafted silk is a simple pleasure in life.

9. Answered prayers

Hear the flutter of prayer flags as they flap in the wind near the isolated monasteries of Dharamsala. In a stark environment of rugged, mountainous landscapes, quietness permeates the air, except for the unique sound of prayer flags collecting prayers and sending them to the heavens above.

10. Big screen brilliance

Be treated to a feast for the senses at a bombastic Bollywood movie screening. Covet the glamorous costumes, marvel at the energetic choreography and delight in the lively music. Revel in the razzle-dazzle of the whole spectacle and be swept away by the irresistible charm of India's triumphant cinematic phenomenon.

India's fragrant bazaars, modern boutiques and village markets are brimming with wares harnessing centuries of artistic traditions. With talented artisans and top quality items at low prices, India is a shopper's paradise. It's a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country. Australia and New Zealand generally have strict quarantine laws.

Things to buy in India

From big, chunky ornate silver earrings to vibrant bangles and bold statement rings, India's silversmiths and jewelry makers ensure there are lots of pieces to choose from in the bazaars and shops.

2. Wraps, scarves and shawls

Whether you're looking for pricey pashmina, luxurious silk or colorful cotton, India has a huge variety of materials to wrap yourself in.

If you're lucky enough to be able to bring tea into your home country, then pick up some of the world's finest tea from the Darjeeling, Assam or Nilgiri regions.

Indian cotton sheets, embroidered bedspreads and colorful cushion covers can be picked up in bazaars at a fraction of the price paid elsewhere.

Many shops are open between 9 am and 7 pm, Monday through Saturday, though hours can vary at bazaars. Most shops are closed on Sunday.

Festivals and events in India

Many of India’s biggest festivals are religious and follow either the Indian lunar calendar or the Islamic calendar. The dates may change each year, but the fervor of celebration never does. Some of the best and biggest festivals to keep an eye out for in India are:

Holi (Festival of Colour)

Take a whole lot of colored powder and water, add thousands of happy people not afraid to get a little (or a lot) dirty and you have Holi – a technicolor Hindu celebration that marks the beginning of spring and the triumph of good over evil. Celebrations take place across India in either February or March.

Diwali (Festival of Lights)

India’s biggest festival – meaning ‘rows of lighted lamps’, people decorate their homes with colorful lights, candles are lit and firework displays take place across the country. The celebrations are particularly spectacular in Varanasi, where illuminated candles and earthen lamps are floated down the Ganges River as fireworks light up the sky. This five-day festival takes place every October or November.

Gujarat Kite Festival

Large, colorful and unusual kites flood the skies of Gujarat each January to commemorate the start of summer and the beginning of harvest. Purchase your own at Patang Bazaar, a famous kite market, or just watch the others dance through the sky.

Mumbai Ganesh Festival

The birth of the elephant-headed god, Ganesh, is celebrated for 10-days each August or September in cities across India, but Mumbai takes it to another level. An incredible energy can be felt throughout the city as people pack the streets for a massive party and an elaborate statue of Ganesh is paraded around.

Pushkar Camel Fair

Thousands of camels (and their owners dressed in their finest garb) descend upon Rajasthan's Pushkar for the annual camel fair. Camels are traded and raced, acrobats and performers entertain crowds at a nearby fair, while finely dressed males and bejeweled females take the chance to let their hair down.

Learn more about festivals in India

Further reading

Similar destinations.

We have a variety of similar destinations, trips and routes that you could consider! Tie another trip into your holiday, or, see how we can help you get from A to B. We have tours departing from a variety of locations around India. The options below may be of interest:

Kathmandu to Delhi Tours From Delhi Tours to Delhi

India travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

Is it safe to travel to India?

India can be overwhelming sometimes, but it's generally a safe country for travelers and many people enjoy their time without any problems.

Is it safe for women to travel in India?

India can be overwhelming sometimes but most travellers enjoy their time in India without any problems. That said, some regions experience ongoing issues, and there are several things a traveler should keep in mind when traveling through India to minimize their chances of running into any trouble.

Do I need a visa to travel to India?

Yes, all foreigners entering India will need a visa. Whether you can apply for an e-visa is dependent on your nationality, the duration of your India tour and how you plan on entering the country.

This page is for general information only and may be subject to change. It is your responsibility to obtain relevant visa and travel information required for entry, departure and travel to each country or region you visit on your trip. You should confirm these with the relevant embassies and/or consulates. 

Last updated: 22/06/2023

Is tipping customary in India?

While traveling through India, on a tour or otherwise, it’s expected one would tip porters, drivers, restaurant staff and other service workers given the low wages they earn.

What is the internet access like in India?

Internet access is generally very good in India, with most cafes, restaurants and accommodations offering free wi-fi, even in the more rural areas. There is also good phone coverage for data use if you choose to purchase a local SIM card to stay connected for the duration of your India tour.

If you do wish to purchase a local SIM in India, make sure your phone has been unlocked before your tour begins. There are quite a number of carriers that are all very competitive, but Airtel is probably the best option for travelers. You’ll need to a copy of your passport and visa to pick up a SIM, and the process can sometimes be a hassle, but rates in India are very affordable given the competition.

Can I use my cell phone while in India?

Yes, you’ll be able to use your cell phone while on an India tour, but only if you have activated global roaming or purchased a local SIM card.

What are the toilets like in India?

Squat toilets are the most common toilets in India. Always carry your own toilet paper and soap or hand sanitizer, as they are usually not provided. Flushable, Western-style toilets can be found in up-market restaurants, some higher-end hotels and in some tourist areas.

What will it cost for a...?

India’s unit of currency is the rupee:

• Cup of tea = INR 7-10
• Small bottle of beer = INR 150-350
• Meal at a local restaurant (thali, masala dosa or similar) = INR 100-200
• Meal in a tourist restaurant = INR 350-600

Can I drink the tap water in India?

India is notorious among travelers for sickness – we’ve all heard horror stories about Delhi belly. We do not recommend ever drinking tap water in India, and travelers should avoid drinks with ice and foods that haven’t been cooked or peeled. Salad is off the menu for now ­– let your inner child rejoice!

Are credit cards widely accepted in India?

Credit cards are being accepted in an increasing number of cafes, shops, restaurants and hotels in India, with Mastercard and Visa being the most common. That said, cash is still king, especially outside of cities like Kolkata, Delhi and Mumbai.

What is ATM access like in India?

ATMs are widespread across India in both cities and smaller towns. Visa, Mastercard, Cirrus and Maestro are the most commonly accepted cards, but of those Visa and Mastercard are more likely to have success. The daily withdrawal limit differs from bank to bank.

What is the weather like in India?

The weather in India varies from region to region, but it’s generally safe to say that December–February sees dry, cooler weather before the heat intensifies from March–May. June, July and August are the monsoon months, though the amount of rain differs across the country, while October, September and November see rainfall ease once more.

What public holidays are celebrated in India?

India has different classifications of holidays because of the multitude of faiths in the country. There are compulsory holidays and then various others chosen by government offices within each state. The following are the compulsory ‘gazetted holidays’ taken by government offices across India:

• 26 Jan: Republic Day
• Feb/Mar: Maha Shivaratri*
• Mar/Apr: Rama Navami*
• Apr: Mahavir Jayanti*
• Mar/Apr: Good Friday*
• May: Buddha’s Birthday*
• May: Eid ul-Fitr (end of Ramadan)*
• Jul/Aug: Eid ul-Adha*
• 15 Aug: Independence Day
• Aug/Sep: Janmashtami*
• Aug/Sep: Islamic New Year*
• Sep/Oct: Dussehra*
• Oct: Birth of the Prophet Mohammed*
• 2 Oct: Mahatma Gandhi’s birthday
• Oct/Nov: Diwali*
• Nov: Guru Nanak Jayanti*
• 25 Dec: Christmas Day

* Please note, India public holidays may vary.

Is India safe for LGBTQIA+ travelers?

The majority of Indian society is still conservative, and while most travelers will have a welcoming and hospitable experience, discretion is still advised for LGBTQIA+ travelers, particularly in more remote towns and villages which may be more conservative. The same advice is also given to heterosexual couples (and couples of all other sexual orientations) as public displays of affection other than hugging and holding hands are generally frowned upon.

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting  Equaldex  or  ILGA  before you travel.

Is India accessible for travelers with disabilities?

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them towards the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

As a general rule, knowing some common words in the local language, carrying a written itinerary with you and taking to the streets in a group, rather than solo, can help make your travel experience the best it can be.

What to wear in India

What you decide to pack and wear in India will depend on where you are and what time of year it is. The weather across India usually follows the monsoon cycle, so it’s quite easy to plan what to pack when it comes to rain, but temperatures will vary quite a bit from the north to the south.

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

How will I be traveling around India?

Intrepid believes half the fun of experiencing a new country is getting there, and getting around once there! Where possible, Intrepid uses local transport options and traditional modes of transport - which usually carry less of an environmental impact, support small local operators and are heaps more fun.

Depending on which trip you're on while in India, you may find yourself traveling by Jeep.

Safari through jungles and national parks aboard a jeep, which is ideal for conquering the difficult terrain and offers supreme wildlife viewing opportunities.

Cruising the waterways of India is a revealing, inspiring experience. Whether it’s the iconic Ganges or peaceful Kerala backwaters, seeing India from the water is a must.

Traveling by train is one of the great experiences of India. It's a system which looks like chaos, but it works - and well.

Use the efficient metro to get around the sights and suburbs of Delhi.

Zip around the big cities of India by auto rickshaw.

What kind of accommodation will I be staying in?

Traveling with Intrepid is a little bit different. We endeavor to provide travelers with an authentic experience to remember, so we try to keep accommodation as unique and traditional as possible.

When traveling with us in India you may find yourself staying in a homestay.

Make new friends, feast on authentic home cooking and receive kind hospitality while staying with friendly families in India.

With walks, wildlife spotting and adventure sports nearby, staying in a jungle resort is the perfect way to see another side of India.

From ex-royal palaces to historic hill stations and converted forts, India is full of heritage properties that have been turned into comfortable accommodation with an old-world touch.

What is it like traveling on a small group tour?

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or you’re about to embark on your first trip, traveling can be as intimidating as it is exciting. That's the beauty of a small group tour. From handling the logistics and organizing amazing cultural activities to local leaders who know each destination like the back of their hand (like which street has the best markets and where to get the most authentic food), traveling on a small group tour with Intrepid will give you unforgettable travel experiences without the hassle that comes with exploring a new place. Plus, you'll have ready-made friends to share the journey with. All you have to do is turn up with a healthy sense of adventure and we’ll take care of the rest.

Does my trip to India support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. In fact, we make a donation on behalf of every traveler. Trips to India directly support our foundation partner, Positive Change for Marine Life. 

Positive Change for Marine Life

Positive Change for Marine Life nurtures ocean health with community-led conservation initiatives. Donations help them expand and implement vital programs in India that empower local communities, support sustainable fishing practices, restore marine habitats and drive policy change. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

20 Best Places to Visit in India

Written by Joni Sweet Updated Mar 30, 2022

Deeply traditional yet endlessly surprising, India is one of those destinations that ends up on every traveler's bucket list at some point. They might dream of going to Agra to see the Taj Mahal in all its glory, or exploring the royal palaces scattered throughout Rajasthan. Others find themselves attracted to the jaw-dropping landscapes in Darjeeling and Rishikesh , or the postcard-perfect beaches in Goa.

There's also India's big cities– New Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata –each of which has its own distinctive personality. It's impossible to get bored exploring the temples, markets, and colorful streets of India's biggest urban centers. The hardest part of traveling to India is figuring out exactly what to see on your journey.

Whether you're going on an epic backpacking trip or a luxe vacation, plan your adventure with this list of the best places to visit in India.

2. New Delhi

4. rajasthan, 5. rishikesh, 6. varanasi, 7. amritsar, 10. ajanta and ellora caves, 11. darjeeling, 12. kolkata, 13. ahmedabad, 19. andaman islands, 20. mcleod ganj, map of places to visit in india.

If there was just one symbol to represent all of India, it would be the Taj Mahal . The monument inspires millions of tourists to make the trip to Agra every year, waking up before dawn to see magnificent structure radiate at sunrise. But Agra tops the list of the best places to visit in India for reasons that go beyond India's most famous attraction.

The city in Uttar Pradesh is chock-full of marvelous Mughal monuments , like Itimad-ud-Daulah's Tomb and Akbar's Mausoleum , decked out in hypnotic inlaid marble designs from top to bottom. Plus, tourists can also see another UNESCO World Heritage Site: the Agra Fort. With so many wonders in just one place, Agra is a must-visit city for tourists in India.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Agra

Despite its crowds and chaos, New Delhi offers tourists a lot to love. The colorful capital of India is the perfect marriage of heritage and modernity. Old Delhi contains some of the country's most treasured attractions, including the Jama Masjid, Red Fort, and Chandni Chowk shopping thoroughfare. But throughout the sprawling city, tourists can explore countless other sites of spiritual and cultural importance.

Top tourist attractions in New Delhi include the Lotus Temple; India Gate; Humayun's Tomb; and India's tallest minaret, Qutub Minar. Fill your days exploring these mesmerizing sites, and refueling at street-side chai stalls and high-end restaurants.

Want to see a more cosmopolitan side of India? Head to the energetic, coastal city of Mumbai–home to ultra-wealthy entrepreneurs and the hottest Bollywood actors. Tourists are never far from five-star hotels or gourmet restaurants in this luxe city. And even if those activities are out of budget, a cruise down the beloved Marine Drive will make you feel like royalty as you catch a glimpse of the scenic coast and glamorous Art Deco buildings.

You can also see a more authentic, local side of Mumbai in the bustling "Thieves Market" or at the Churchgate railway station , where hundreds of thousands of homemade lunches are packed up for delivery to the city's office workers every day.

Make sure you devote a day to checking out Sanjay Gandhi National Park and exploring the 2,000-year-old Kanheri Cave carvings.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Mumbai

Translated to "Land of Kings," Rajasthan brims with remnants of the kings and queens of past centuries. Between its glittering palaces , stately forts, and lively festivals, this western state deserves a starring role in your trip to India.

Jaipur , part of the Golden Triangle Tourist Circuit, which also includes Agra and New Delhi, is one of the top places to visit in Rajasthan. Dubbed "The Paris of India," it's known for its characteristic pink buildings, lavish City Palace, and jewelry stores galore.

The "Blue City," Jodhpur , offers tourists an equally unforgettable experience in its hilltop Mehrangarh Fort .

Udaipur oozes romance with its flower-lined streets and fantastic City Palace Complex , where the royal family still lives today.

And Jaisalmer looks like an Arabian Nights fairy tale brought to life, with its yellow sandstone structures and historic havelis (mansions). No matter where you end up in this desert state, you'll be captivated by the magic of Rajasthan.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Jaipur

Rishikesh has been on the radar for spiritually minded travelers since the late 1960s, when the Beatles spent time in Maharishi Mahesh Yogi's ashram –now an abandoned site that has become an off-the-beaten-path tourist attraction for fans.

The town is nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas on the banks of the holy Ganges River, and serves as a center for yoga and pilgrimages . Take part in the action, or just enjoy the sounds of the temple bells and sightseeing from Rishikesh's two suspension bridges , often guarded by assertive families of monkeys. Keep your distance.

One of the oldest continually inhabited cities in the world, Varanasi is arguably the holiest place in India. The spiritual activities take place along the sacred Ganges River, where pilgrims bathe and mourners cremate recently deceased relatives in plain view of passersby.

Tourists, on the other hand, find their own flavor of spiritualism taking sunrise boat rides, releasing floral blessings that float on the river, and watching the fire-filled Hindu chanting ceremonies from the steep ghats.

Away from the water, the streets of the old town twist and turn like an endless maze. Legend has it that there's still no accurate map of Varanasi, and once you experience the labyrinthine city for yourself, you'll be inclined to believe it.

Amritsar, the "Jewel of Punjab," has made its claim to fame with its remarkable Golden Temple . One of the holiest places in the world for Sikhs, the gilded structure is a sight to behold, glistening in the sun and reflecting into the large pool that surrounds it.

The attraction also boasts the world's largest community kitchen , which serves 100,000 diners (including curious tourists!) lentils and curries every day.

While in Amritsar, plan to spend an afternoon at the border of Pakistan to see the Beating Retreat Ceremony. Goose-stepping guards from long-term rivals India and Pakistan open and close the border gates at dusk in an over-the-top ceremony you'll never forget. Get there early to dance to blaring Bollywood music with locals in the streets.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Amritsar

India's not just full of big cities and holy sites–it also has incredible beaches down south in Goa. Its stretches of golden sand along the Arabian Sea offer something for every type of tourist, whether you're interested in hanging out with the backpacker crowd in laid-back beach huts or having a ritzy tropical getaway at a five-star resort.

One unique part of Goa is its blend of Indian and Portuguese cultures. You'll experience the fusion throughout the destination, from its Baroque architecture and cathedrals to its spicy vindaloo curries and seafood dishes.

Head south of Goa, and you'll trade beaches for tranquil backwaters in Kerala. Nothing beats the experience of hopping aboard a traditional thatched-top houseboat in Alleppey (also known as Alappuzha ) and slowly floating through palm-fringed lagoons and rivers, either as a day trip or overnight adventure. You'll enjoy freshly cooked Indian cuisine on the water and breathtakingly beautiful natural sights and wildlife.

Easygoing Kerala is like a breath of fresh air from the intensity of cities like New Delhi and Jaipur up north. Schedule some time here when you're in need of a break from the chaos.

Time travel isn't a reality for travelers quite yet, but you can get pretty close at the Ajanta and Ellora Caves in Maharashtra. Both UNESCO World Heritage Sites , the caves feature intricate carvings from at least 1,500 years ago.

The Ajanta Caves are the oldest of the two attractions, featuring around 30 Buddhist cave monuments cut into the rock as far back as the 2nd century BC.

Around 100 kilometers southwest, the Ellora Caves contain nearly three dozen Buddhist, Jain, and Hindu carvings, the most famous of which is the Kailasa Temple (Cave 16), a massive structure devoted to Lord Shiva that features life-size elephant sculptures . The magnificent carvings at both sites will leave you filled with wonder.

Sightseeing in India doesn't get much better than what you'll discover in Darjeeling. The hill station in West Bengal is beloved for its lush green tea plantations , awe-inspiring snow-capped peaks (including Khangchendzonga , the world's third-highest mountain), and serene Buddhist monasteries. This is the perfect place to arrange a mountain trek or mountain biking adventure.

One of the most popular things to do in Darjeeling is taking a ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. Powered by an antique steam locomotive, the 140-year-old " Toy Train " takes tourists on two-hour fun rides from Darjeeling to Ghum– a journey that's regularly counted as one of the most scenic train rides in the world.

India's third-largest city, Kolkata, is a decaying masterpiece of former British India, brimming with colonial-era architecture . The top things to do in Kolkata include seeing the Victoria Memorial, a white marble monument that features a museum with dozens of galleries, and Park Street, a famous thoroughfare with shops and restaurants that bustle 24/7, especially during the holidays.

But Kolkata is as much about the sites as it is about the emotions. This is a city that will somehow induce every one of your emotions with the highs and lows of life taking place in plain view on every street. Brace yourself, and be open to the experience.

The largest city in Gujarat , Ahmedabad is a noisy, overwhelming metropolis that somehow wins over the tourists who make their way here. The historic city of Ahmedabad earned the coveted title of India's first UNESCO World Heritage City in 2017 for its rich architecture, walls and gates, and significant Hindu and Jain temples.

On the western bank of the Sabarmati River , tourists can wander around Sabarmati Ashram , Gandhi's headquarters from 1917 to 1930. Its museum talks about the life of the Indian hero, and displays his iconic spectacles and spinning wheel. While you're in the city, sample the street food –some say it's the best in all of India.

When the temperatures skyrocket in New Delhi and other cities in North India, tourists and locals alike make their way to cooler climates in the hill stations, the most popular of which is Shimla. The cloudy weather and forested hillsides make for a satisfying escape from the heat, as well as a placid place to spend a weekend or more. The atmosphere in the hilly central part of town, where traffic is banned, is just as pleasant as the scenic outskirts.

While you're in the area, make a reservation on the Kalka-Shimla Railway , a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The 96.6-kilometer-long railroad, which has been running for over a century, is renowned for its stunning views and authentic vintage experience.

While culturally different, South India is as enchanting as the north–just visit Mysore to see for yourself. The third-largest city in Karnataka is considered to be the cultural capital of the state, celebrated for its high-quality silk , Mysore painting tradition, and hypnotic Hindu temples with deity carvings that nearly touch the clouds.

Most tourists visit Mysore to see its World Heritage-listed palace. This attraction takes Indian grandeur to the next level, with endless mirrored decor, stained-glass windows, carved wooden doors, and intricate mosaic floors that look like the inside of a kaleidoscope. The palace is considered to be one of the country's finest examples of Indo-Saracenic design. Be sure to swing by to see the palace at night, when it's lit up with thousands of twinkle lights.

Situated amid the jagged crags of the Karakoram and Zanskar mountain ranges , Ladakh offers tourists the chance to immerse themselves in an awe-inspiring alpine desert. Driving around the region's winding roads comes with one incredible natural view after the next: plunging valleys, gushing rivers, snowcapped peaks, and more. Ladakh's enchanting capital, Leh , stands at 3,500 meters above sea level, so you'll want to spend at least a few days acclimating to the altitude before embarking on any strenuous activities.

Ladakh didn't open to tourists until 1974. Given its difficult-to-reach location and its long-time isolation, the Buddhist-majority region has retained a unique cultural identity and a somewhat "untouched" feel. You'll see Buddhist monasteries and temples all around Leh's Old Town, and countless colorful prayer flags fluttering in the breeze.

Don't miss the nine-story Leh Palace , which dates back to the 17th century, as well as the Shanti Stupa –a monument to world peace. You can also see a superbly sustainable way of life in this traditional community, which receives very little imported goods and remains largely self-sufficient.

In a country as sweltering as India, it's a relief to find cool weather in hill stations all over the country. Manali happens to be one of the most popular among local and foreign tourists alike. Located in Himachal Pradesh , the high-altitude resort town in the Himalayas makes an easy getaway from Jaipur, New Delhi , or Punjab. The tourist-friendly Old Manali neighborhood brims with chilled-out cafés; great restaurants; and home-stay accommodations, where visitors can experience a local way of life.

Manali is also a convenient base if you want to experience the great outdoors in this beautiful region of North India. From here, you can go trekking in the Parvati Valley, paragliding and mountaineering in the Pir Panjal mountains, and white-water rafting down the Beas River. Outfitters around the town can assist with all the arrangements and gear rentals.

Take one look at Kodagu's hilly emerald landscape perpetually blanketed by a cloud of mist, and you'll instantly see why this hill station is nicknamed "the Scotland of India." Previously called Coorg, the affluent area's biggest draws are its coffee and spice plantations . Tours of historic agricultural sites give tourists up-close views of how these foods are grown and produced. The lush scenery also makes for great bird-watching and trekking , especially in the Western Ghats.

Other popular things to do in Kodagu include seeing the 21-meter Abbey Falls gushing after the rainy season, hearing the chants of young monks at the Namdroling Monastery's famous Golden Temple, visiting the 17th-century Madikeri Fort , and watching elephants take a bath at Dubare Elephant Camp.

Andaman Islands are the go-to place in India if you're looking for a classic beach vacation. They'll treat you to powder-white sand beaches flanked by coconut palms, pastel-streaked sunsets, the turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea, and dense jungle landscapes. No postcard could possibly capture the majesty of this gorgeous destination.

Its ultra remote location, closer to Indonesia than mainland India, presents challenges for those who want to step foot on one of the few dozen islands open to tourists. You'll need to take a domestic flight from a major Indian city, such as Chennai, New Delhi, or Mumbai . Or, you can brave one of the long-distance ferry rides across the Bay of Bengal .

The effort can be well worth the reward, though. You'll have some of India's best beaches almost all to yourself, and the chance to see rare birds and thriving coral reefs. Culture hounds and history buffs will also relish exploring the Victorian British ruins on Ross Island , which are slowly being engulfed by the jungle.

Did you know you can visit the home of the Dalai Lama on a trip to India? The Tibetan spiritual leader's base can be found at the Tsuglagkhang complex , a monastic village in the hill station of McLeod Ganj.

Most afternoons, you can see monks passionately debate one another in the central courtyard. Make your way around the complex to see pilgrims (many of whom are in exile from Tibet) spinning prayer wheels and prostrating in prayer, along with the temple and throne on which the Dalai Lama delivers his teachings. There's also a small Tibet Museum on-site, which gives tourists a deeper understanding of the struggle Tibetans face amid Chinese occupation through moving photo exhibits and a video.

The Tsuglagkhang complex alone makes it well worth a visit to McLeod Ganj, but you can also check out a range of other attractions throughout Dharamsala. Watch artisans teach and practice traditional Tibetan art, like woodcarving and thangka painting at the Norbulingka Institute . Make the nine-kilometer trek up Triund Hill to catch views of the mighty Dhauladhar mountain range. And on your way to the Bhagsu Waterfalls , make a stop at the Bhagsunag Temple to see the ancient sacred pools, believed to be filled with healing waters.

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India Tours and Trips 2024/2025

Prepare your senses, for an India tour is a true sensory feast. The nation’s sights, sounds and smells can be overpowering at times, but with due time you will fall in love with it. Visit Delhi & Golden Triangle for incredible art and architecture (including the Taj Mahal ), Kerala & Tamil Nadu for beaches and adventure tours, or the Indian Himalayas for trekking and climbing.

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+300 Trips in India with 869 Reviews

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Classic Rajasthan

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Golden Triangle With Udaipur City Of Lakes, Supersaver

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• Age Range 6-99 yrs
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Taj Mahal & Wildlife with Royal Stay at Castles Tour

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• Age Range 1-79 yrs

Golden Triangle Tour of India

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• Age Range 5-79 yrs
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Golden Triangle India Tour with Wildlife

• Activities City sightseeing & Cultural, religious and historic sites City sightseeing , Cultural, religious and historic sites & Wildlife safaris and game drives 'data-more-tripid='16823'>+1 more
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• Age Range 1-90 yrs

North India Revealed

• Activities 4x4, quad and ATV trips & Cultural, religious and historic sites 4x4, quad and ATV trips , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Shopping and Markets , Rickshaw, cycle or local transport tours & Art and architecture 'data-more-tripid='3344'>+3 more
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India's Golden Triangle

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & Art and architecture Cultural, religious and historic sites , Art and architecture & Shopping and Markets 'data-more-tripid='3352'>+1 more
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Southern India Coast to Coast Ride

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Taj Mahal & Rajasthan with Royal Stay at Fort Sardargarh

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• Age Range 5-80 yrs
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Indian Golden Triangle Tour

• Age Range 9-79 yrs

• Ends Udaipur, India

Royal Rajasthan Tour

• Activities Local culture & Cultural, religious and historic sites Local culture , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Local boat rides & Walking tours 'data-more-tripid='1390'>+2 more
• Transport Jeep, Boat & Private Vehicle
• Operated in English, French, German, Spanish

• Starts Darjeeling, India
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Darjeeling Singalila Ridge Trek

• Activities Trekking and Hiking & Climbing
• Accommodation Hotel, Hut, Camping, Home-stay, Eco Lodge, Guest House & Sleeping Hut
• Transport Jeep & Train
• Age Range 10-60 yrs
• Operated in English, Hindi, Nepalese

Highlights of Northern India

• Activities Local culture & Cultural, religious and historic sites Local culture , Cultural, religious and historic sites & Festivals and events 'data-more-tripid='7488'>+1 more
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• Brochure Price: US$ 1,648
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Luxury Golden Triangle Tour

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• Operated in English, French, German, Italian, Spanish

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India — Tour Highlights and Travel Tips

A trip to India is a bombardment on your senses. The country introduces you to all kinds of sights, sounds and smells and it can be a bit difficult to take in everything the very first day. The only way to explore India is to be patient and give it some time. You feel the glaring lack of privacy, but you also come to fall in love with the fascinating beauty all around you. From a rich culture that dates back centuries to ancient archeological ruins that still stand in all their glory, from glittering temples to elaborate forts and palaces, India is a dream you never wish to wake up from.

The country has a long and colorful religious history and is famous for its celebrations and festivals. Irrespective of which time you choose to visit, you always have a festival to become a part of. And it is not just about exploring temples and worshiping deities. You can also rediscover yourself at one of those yoga ashrams scattered all over the country. People have been visiting India for decades and still find themselves falling in love with its culture, architectural riches and arts that easily rival the best of Italian renaissance.

Tour Highlights

• Stare in awe at the majestic Taj Mahal
• Explore the intricate artwork and ancient culture hidden in the Ajanta Caves
• Take part in the colourful Holi festival in Vrindavan
• Discover the famous pink walls and 953 windows of the Hawa Mahal in Jaipur
• Ride across Dai Lake in Srinagar on an old wooden boat called Shikara
• Stroll through the tea fields of Darjeeling

Travel Tips

• Even if you’re a seasoned traveller, get ready for a culture shock. Heavily populated India is incredibly busy in terms of crowds, sights and sounds. Take it slow and be open minded on your India tour.
• Learn about common scams before setting off on your India holiday. A quick internet search will tell you the most frequent scams and how best to avoid them on your travels.
• Perhaps surprisingly for one of the world’s tech capitals, fast internet can be hard to find in India, particularly outside the country's largest cities. Consider buying a local sim card so you’re always connected.
• Have no worries about learning Hindi, English is widely spoken in India. You’ll also see it on most road signs, so navigation is relatively easy.
• Women, in particular, should opt for loose-fitting clothing. Tight or revealing outfits may generate unwanted male attention. However, no matter what you wear, Western travellers should be prepared for unwanted attention.
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Luxury Tours & Trips to India

Searching for a luxury touring experience? Look no further, as our luxury adventures of India will allow you to discover exceptional destinations such as New Delhi and Jaipur. Explore and discover new cultures while enjoying top tier services and facilities. Experience the best  luxury tours  in the world with TourRadar!

250+ Luxury India tour packages with 1,752 reviews

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Premium India

Sensational in every aspect. Firstly our tour leader Chandra was exceptional in his knowledge, approachability and care for all 12 of us. The tour was enlightening culturally, stimulating from the history perspective and enjoyable as the group melded really well. Thanks to all involved in putting g Premiun India together.

India's Luxury Golden Triangle with Leopard Safari & Sunrise Taj Mahal

It was a wonderful tour with an amazing driver and knowledgeable guides. Hotels were all excellent. Leopard safari was amazing.

Premium India in Depth

Intrepid Premium India in Depth (November 13 - 25) Mumbai - Delhi Excellent tour leader along with very good local informative guides. 3 changes in accommodation; Mumbai - Gordon House Hotel is excellent, well priced and only 1 street back from Gateway to India but the company changed to Fariyas Hotel, Mumbai which was been renovated as well as painted so very noisy, couldn't use the pool and scaffolding all around. Definitely not ideal. Our second night in Delhi was also cancelled at Jaypee Siddharth Hotel though privately booked and paid for months before the tour so had to find alternative accommodation while on the tour and they told the travel agents they were "closed for renovations" however the tour was booked and stayed there and no renovations were occuring. Hadoti Palace Hotel in Bundi looked nice and rooms were big but not clean especially the toilet and shower. Otherwise all hotels were very nice and rated accurately; cleaning the showers/washrooms would have helped with the mouldy smell but that is somewhat consistent in most countries. November is the start of wedding season in India which are very loud and noisy and have no time restrictions so be prepared for that if going at this time of year. Tour involves quite a number of days travelling in a bus/coach for 4 - 6 hours with a stop every 2 - 3 hours. Rest stops are OK at best with only snack food to purchase. Adjusting the departure time would have helped with timeframes as quite a few days we were getting lunch around 2 - 3 pm when hotel kitchens were closed. Definitely not enough free time for shopping on your own with organized evenings most nights or in a venue on the outside of towns. Toured the markets but they were only a walk through with the group and no time to stop and shop. Restaurants and food was amazing and no one was unwell on the trip. 2 days in Ranthambhore Park was too long and could have done in 1.5 days with more time in Agra. Overall a very good trip for myself and my father (aged 79).

Luxury India Tour (Delhi, Agra and Jaipur- 7 days Golden Triangle)-5 star Hotel

Great way to see India in seven days

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

Golden Triangle & Ranthambhore Tour with 4-Star Accommodation

Must do trip to Rajasthan

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Exciting Wildlife Safari Tour in India

We had been to Africa before this for a safari trip and thought it couldn't get better than that, but wow were we surprised. The experience between the two continents is so vast while Africa has abundant wildlife India has so much more of an exciting wildlife experience. This is the REAL THING. Highly recommended. especially this company as they provided us with a seamless expedience from pickup to our drop with excellent guides and drivers in the middle. We shall be back to cover the other part of India .

Passage to India - 10 days

Superb way to see India

Golden traingle 5 nights 6 days

I had a fantastic day in Agra thanks to Anaisha Journey; from the outset the driver was very prompt and attentive in picking me up from Hotels. The tour guide was really informative when taking me through both the Taj Mahal and Agra fort, and was very helpful guiding me through each part of the attractions. Mr Lucky was also really nice and big thanks to him for organising everything. Anaisha Journey arranged a schedule and accommodation for Agra, Jaipur, Jodhpur and Delhi.

Delhi, Palaces, Ganges - 10 days

This was my first tour. It was totally wonderful because of Satish. I have knee and hip issues - Satish helped me up and down all the steps at the temples, monuments and ghats - he made sure I was able to enjoy every part of the tour. He also ordered my food in restaurants so I would get the "spicy" version - not the tourist version. He was very knowledgeable about everything we saw. He shared a lot of information with us and I was able to get a deeper insight into Indian life and religion. I loved everything about the tour.

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Heritage luxury hotel Rajasthan tour

We've just come back from this extremely exciting tour and must admit it was a lifetime adventure and a completely different experience for us. India is so lively and diverse that's it is hard to understand all the small cultural niuances. Our driver Mr. Mithun and all the wonderful team went out of their way to understand indian culture, show us all those beautiful places in the itinerary and as well as off beaten track. We tried delicious food, met lovely people everywhere including Paylesstoursindia personal driver and guides. The hotels which were very important part for us to stay were very pleasant and well located. We didn't expect such hospitality and service at the price we paid. We've going to recommend Paylesstoursindia to our mates. Many thanks.

Adventures Ranthambore Wildlife Safari Tour with Golden Triangle 7Days

This trip was incredible, from day one our tour guide was amazing .. caring and very knowledgeable.. the actual your was also incredible.. thanks everyone who made possible this unforgettable experience!

Luxury 3 Day Golden Triangle With 5 star Hotel

Essence of India with Varanasi, 4 star accommodation

Good value for the money. It’s tiring with so much deriving and walking but it’s all worth it. Our guide is very accommodating to our needs.

Heart of India Luxury

wanted explore Luxury India Golden Triangle Tour with great guides and driver who can explain history to us tour guides was amazing we got best services that we expected

Luxury Golden Triangle Tour of India

Fantastic and very worthwhile.all staff from organisers to guides to drivers were very good

What people love about Luxury Tours in India

We had an amazing time with Swastik India. We saw many beautiful places. Leopard safari was a wonderful experience.

Intrepid Premium India in Depth (November 13 - 25) Mumbai - Delhi Excellent tour leader along with very good local informative guides. 3 changes in accommodation; Mumbai - Gordon House Hotel is excellent, well priced and only 1 street back from Gateway to India but the company changed to Fariyas Hotel, Mumbai which was been renovated as well as painted so very noisy, couldn't use the pool and scaffolding all around. Definitely not ideal. Our second night in Delhi was also cancelled at Jaypee Siddharth Hotel though privately booked and paid for months before the tour so had to find alternative accommodation while on the tour and they told the travel agents they were "closed for renovations" however the tour was booked and stayed there and no renovations were occuring. Hadoti Palace Hotel in Bundi looked nice and rooms were big but not clean especially the toilet and shower. Otherwise all hotels were very nice and rated accurately; cleaning the showers/washrooms would have helped with the mouldy smell but that is somewhat consistent in most countries. November is the start of wedding season in India which are very loud and noisy and have no time restrictions so be prepared for that if going at this time of year. Tour involves quite a number of days travelling in a bus/coach for 4 - 6 hours with a stop every 2 - 3 hours. Rest stops are OK at best with only snack food to purchase. Adjusting the departure time would have helped with timeframes as quite a few days we were getting lunch around 2 - 3 pm when hotel kitchens were closed. Definitely not enough free time for shopping on your own with organized evenings most nights or in a venue on the outside of towns. Toured the markets but they were only a walk through with the group and no time to stop and shop. Restaurants and food was amazing and no one was unwell on the trip. 2 days in Ranthambhore Park was too long and could have done in 1.5 days with more time in Agra. Overall a very good trip for myself and my father (aged 79).

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"I'll show you how to navigate the buzzing cities of India, and go beyond to find soul-stirring temples, beautiful mountains and irresistible food."

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Navigate the busy streets of Old Delhi on a rickshaw ride

The nation's capital rings to the sounds of car horns, chai stalls and the chatter of its 29 million inhabitants. Shuffle into an open-air rickshaw and ride through the streets of the Old Delhi, admiring traditional Havelis and stopping for a famous mango or pomegranate frozen kulfi to cool off in the summer.

Gaze at the sun-kissed Taj Mahal in Agra

Take a journey to Agra and be stirred by the ultimate symbol of fairy-tale architecture. Inlaid with precious gemstones, this ivory marble palace was originally commissioned by an emperor as a tomb for his wife, standing as a symbol of love and opulence since 1653.

Spot tigers in Ranthambore National Park

Clamber into the back of an open-top safari car and spot leopards, marsh crocodiles, hyenas and Bengal tigers wandering their natural habitat. Sprawling over almost 300km 2 , the Ranthambore National Park is also home to a 10th-century fort, giant banyan trees and many lakes.

Experience royal Rajasthan

Enthralling cities interrupt the inhospitable desert in Rajasthan, India's largest state. Home to around 30 royal palaces including the floating lake palace of Udaipur and the iconic peach palace of Hawa Mahal, you will be swept up by the regal heritage found in this part of India.

Visit one of the Bollywood studios in Mumbai

Take a journey into the metropolis of Mumbai to uncover the prestigious culture of the Indian film industry. Without knowing a word of Hindi or a single Bollywood film, you will be captivated by this passionate industry. Be guided past the homes of megastars and catch a glimpse behind the scenes as the cameras roll.

Our top 5 things to do in India

Let Trafalgar guide your India vacation through a majestic tapestry of landmarks and experience. From the Taj Mahal to the tiger parks of Rajasthan, these are just some of the soul-stirring moments waiting when you travel with us.

National Museum

India vacation tours get under the skin of the country's culture with a trip to the National Museum of New Delhi. Roam the halls and take in elaborate jewellery, ancient manuscripts and traditional miniature paintings on cloth. From the prehistoric to the modern, this expansive Indian museum is a must-visit.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya

The King Shivaji museum, or CSMVS, is a pride of Mumbai showcasing around 50,000 exhibitions within an impressive Indo-gothic building. After taking in archaeology, art and natural history, spend time in the tranquil, flower-filled gardens that contrast the bustle of Mumbai.

City Palace

Taking almost 400 years to be built, the City Palace of Udaipur is an architectural masterpiece beside Lake Pichola. Enter the museum section of the palace complex via the royal courtyard, allowing plenty of time to immerse in the artefacts of India's distant past.

Best museums in India

Step off the streets and find a moment of quiet in a spellbinding museum. Here are just a few of the places we will visit in India to peel back the many layers of culture.

A thin fried bread mentioned in 12th-century Sanskrit scriptures, paratha is part of India's cultural heritage. Try it stuffed with spinach, fenugreek and the cheese of paneer, or take it on its own for lapping up the leftover gravy from a delectable curry.

Varan Bhaat Diva

Popular along the sunny coastline of Goa, Varan Bhaat Diva is Indian comfort food of peas, beans, rice and many spices. Often given to those who are exhausted or sick, you will feel soothed by the warmth and turmeric in this family favorite.

Chicken cafreal

Inspired by the dishes brought from Portugal during colonial times, the herb coated chicken legs of cafreal will cement your infatuation with Indian cuisine. Shallow fried and often served with potato and wedges of citrus fruit, India tour packages aren't complete until cafreal is served.

Best food in India

Despite the many famous dishes that have journeyed far from the lands of India, this country still has culinary delights that will rouse your tastebuds. From warm bread to fragrant curries, we'll guide you through the secrets of this spicy land.

What to pack for India

A few good books

The Indian rail network chuffs for 65,000 kilometres around India. A geographically large company with relatively slow transport systems, a few books can keep you entertained between admiring scenery.

Light and modest clothing

Though India does get cooler than most expect, many parts of the year are intensely hot. Pack sheer, light clothing that covers you right to the ankles, wrists and neck so that you can respectfully visit religious sites without sweltering.

Medication for stomach upsets

Though our India group tours will see you largely protected from unsanitary food or water, it is still handy to keep a supply of medication on hand. Charcoal tablets can be taken daily as a preventive measure to ensure any nasties are quickly expelled from your system.

Water purification devices

The purification of water has come a long way in recent years. Make your way to a specialist travel shop to discuss bottles, gadgets and tablets that will ensure you stay hydrated without falling ill.

Wet wipes and hand sanitiser

True to its reputation, India can be a hot and messy place. Pack wet wipes and hand sanitiser to ensure you feel fresh when you're on the go.

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Top 30 places that should be in your india travel itinerary.

The landscape of India provides for an infinite number of holiday destinations in India- from scenic locations to sites soaked in history, from cities bustling with chaos and confusion to laid-back and relaxed stays, India is truly diverse. Amidst this huge list of vacation spots, choosing the perfect location for your next trip can be daunting. Well! We are here to relieve you of this dilemma as we present to you the list of top 30 destinations in India for all kinds of travelers, whether you like quiet and serene mountains or small towns with their hustle and bustle. Read along to find the perfect travel destination for your next vacation.

List of 30 Best Places to Visit in India

• Rann of Kutch
• Spiti Valley
• Ranthambore
• Jim Corbett National Park

Check out: Get the Best Deals on India Tour Packages

Kashmir:  For its Captivating Natural Beauty

One of the most incredible places in India, Kashmir is known for its natural beauty and is thus, rightly called Heaven on Earth. With its picturesque lakes , lush fruit orchards, verdant meadows, pines and deodars forests, all enclosed with mountains of Himalayan and Pir-Panjal ranges – Kashmir seems to have directly made its way right out from a postcard.

The beautiful Kashmir Valley is home to many destinations ideal for nature lovers, family vacationers, honeymooners, and even a group of friends. Along with great sightseeing opportunities, it offers adventure activities like trekking , skiing, and river rafting, recreational activities like fishing & angling, and even spa & wellness. Shopaholics and food lovers can also have their share of enjoyment as Kashmir spoils them with many options.

Top Places to Visit in Kashmir

• Aru & Betaab Valley
• Gurez Valley

Top Things to Do in Kashmir

• Boating in Dal Lake, Srinagar
• Skiing in Gulmarg
• Angling & Fishing in Pahalgam
• White Water River Rafting in Pahalgam and Sonmarg
• Shopping for Leather Items, Pashmina Shawls, and Traditional Kashmiri Handicraft
• Trying Wazwan (traditional dishes)

Check out: Best of Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Packages

Ladakh: For its Unmatched Adventure Options

The land of high mountain passes , barren mountains, alpine lakes & meadows, enchanting valleys and ancient colourful Buddhist monasteries , Ladakh is one of the must-visit destinations in India. It is ideal for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Ladakh is unlike any place to visit in India. It is here that you can witness some of the world’s highest mountain passes as well as exotic wildlife species in India’s largest national park. This must-visit destination in India is perfect for motorbiking and mountain biking, camping, river rafting, trekking and peak climbing adventures.

Top Places to Visit in Ladakh

• Pangong Lake
• Nubra Valley
• Zanskar Valley

Top Things to Do in Ladakh

• Trekking & Hiking
• Peak Climbing
• Motor Biking
• Mountain Biking
• White Water River Rafting
• Wildlife Sighting especially snow leopards
• Attend Festivals in the Monasteries

Check out: Best of Ladakh Tourism Packages

Delhi: For its Incredible History and Past

The capital city makes for one of the perfect travel destinations in India. A city of heritage , monuments, teeming with bazaars and mouth-watering street food, high-end malls, and luxury hotels & restaurants; Delhi has something for everyone. So whether you are looking for a heritage walk or a shopping experience or for kids-friendly activities or places for photography or even seek the blessings of god, Delhi will not disappoint.

Top Places to Visit in Delhi

• Humayun’s Tomb
• Jama Masjid
• Qutub Minar
• Nizamuddin Dargah
• Chandni Chowk
• Lotus Temple
• Akshardham Temple
• Rashtrapati Bhawan

Things to Do in Delhi

• Try delectable street food
• Listen to qawwalis at Nizamuddin
• Take a tour on Hop On Ho Off (HOHO) Bus
• Go shopping in Chandni Chowk, Sarojini Nagar, Dilli Haat
• Architecture photography
• Heritage walk

Check out: Popular Delhi Sightseeing Tour Packages

Sikkim: For its Breathtaking Natural Vistas and Enthralling Adventures

One of the most beautiful places in India, Sikkim is a glittering gem of the North-East Himalayas. This northeast Indian destination is popular for being home to the world’s third highest mountain, Kanchenjunga (8586 m). Sikkim is one of the best destinations in India to spend a peaceful and laid back holiday as well as enjoy enthralling adventure activities.

Teeming with some of the world’s scenic trekking trails and rivers, this little northeastern state makes for a perfect adventure destination in India for trekkers, rafting enthusiasts, mountaineers and rock climbers. It is also famous for offering an experience of Yak Safari.

Sikkim is also a perfect place to go for some meditation sessions at numerous old Buddhist monasteries. Don’t miss out on delicious Sikkimese delicacies and shop to your heart’s content and buy Sikkimese handicrafts, thangka paintings and mural items.

Top Attractions in Sikkim

• Yumthang Valley
• Tsomgo Lake
• Rumtek Monastery
• Do-Drul Chorten
• Jawaharlal Nehru Botanical Garden

Things to Do in Sikkim

• River Rafting in Teesta River
• Paragliding
• Cable Car Ride in Gangtok
• Motorbiking
• Bungee Jumping at Singshore Bridge
• Helicopter Ride
• Caving/Spelunking at North Lha-Ri-Nying Phu

Check out:   Best of Sikkim Tourism Packages

Meghalaya: For its Spellbinding Natural Beauty 

Also known as the abode of clouds, Meghalaya is a hidden gem nestled in the lap of pine-covered Khasi and Garo Hills in the Northeastern part of India. One of the most picturesque states of North East India with its innumerable waterfalls, mystic caves, dense forests and sparkling lakes and rivers; Meghalaya is an ideal destination in India for trekkers, cavers/spelunkers and nature lovers.

It is only in Meghalaya where you will come across unique man-made living root bridges that are grown and not built. The ‘double decker living root bridge’ in Cherrapunjee is one such artistic splendour that has been standing strong for over 200 years. Meghalaya also offers a sneak peek of its tribal life along with delicious local food. The state offers a travel experience in India unlike any other.

Top Attractions in Meghalaya

• Cherapunjee
• Elephant Falls
• Nohkalikai Waterfalls
• Mawsmai Cave
• Double Decker Living Root Bridge
• Balpakram National Park
• Nohsngithiang Falls

Things to Do in Meghalaya

• Caving/Spelunking
• Ziplining in Cherapunjee
• Cliff jumping & Boating in Dawki

Check out: Meghalaya North East Sightseeing Tour Packages

Kerala: For its Backwaters, Beaches & Culture

Pristine backwaters, coconut-palm fringed beaches, rejuvenating Ayurvedic massages and colourful festivals; Yes! You guessed it right. I am talking about God’s own country, Kerala . One of the most picturesque places in India with a footfall of thousands of tourists every year, Kerala is tucked between Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats and is blessed with immense natural beauty.

Besides serene backwaters and pristine beaches, Kerala is also home to scenic hill stations and numerous wildlife sanctuaries. Offering an umpteen number of tourist activities, Kerala is a must-visit destination for every traveller. From memorable houseboat stays to nature walks through the sprawling tea gardens to wildlife safari to mesmerizing Kathakali performance to savouring traditional dishes, Kerala has a lot to offer.

Top Attractions in Kerala

• Periyar National Park
• Thiruvananthapuram

Things to Do in Kerala

• Wildlife Safari
• Houseboat stay and Sail on the Backwaters
• Ayurveda Massage
• Scuba Diving
• Cycling & Biking
• Windsurfing in Payyoli Beach, Somatheeram Beach, Alappuzha Beach and Varkala Beach
• Bamboo Rafting in Periyar National Park
• Paragliding in Vagamon and Varkala
• Snorkelling in Bond Safari in Kovalam, coast of Vizhinjam and at Varkala beach
• Spice or Coffee Plantation Tour
• Birdwatching
• Watch Folk Dance Performance
• Witness Snake Boat Race
• Try the Delicious Food of Kerala

Check out: Best of Kerala South India Tour Packages

Andaman: For its Pristine Beauty and Array of Water Sports

Known for their picturesque landscape comprising pristine beaches, azure waters and verdant forests, Andaman & Nicobar are a group of more than 500 islands situated in an infinite expanse of the Bay of Bengal. Packed with an array of interesting activities, Andaman & Nicobar is indeed one of the best beach destinations in India.

The islands are home to one of the best beaches in Asia, Radhanagar Beach, which is a paradise for honeymoon couples. For adventure lovers, the azure waters teeming with a diverse marine life and coral reefs, offer a perfect ambience to indulge in some world-class scuba diving and sea walking experiences. The islands are perfect for sighting exotic colourful birds, camping under the open sky and even trying your hands at a bar-be-que, cooking your own fresh catch of a fish or crab.

Top Attractions in Andaman & Nicobar

• Havelock Island
• Radhanagar Beach
• Cellular Jail
• Ross Island
• Viper Island
• Neil Island
• Baratang Island
• Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex
• Little Andaman
• Barren Island
• Long Island
• Corbyn’s Beach

Things to Do in Andaman & Nicobar

• Snorkelling
• Mangrove Kayaking
• Underwater Sea Walking

Check out: Best of Holiday Packages for Andaman

Goa: For its Beaches, World-heritage Churches, Food & Nightlife

Known for its gorgeous beaches, stellar nightlife, delish seafood, world-heritage listed monuments, Goa is where all the fun is in India. Although the beaches of Goa are the primary tourism attractions, there are many surprises waiting to be unravelled.

Goa has one of the best nightlife in India with trendy bars, beach shacks, elegant cafes and many clubs and discotheques. For those looking for a luxury stay, South Goa has many options.

For the history buffs, Old Goa is replete with many whitewashed churches, crumbling forts and spectacular mansions. The adventure junkies are also spoilt for choice in Goa with a number of watersports including snorkelling and jet skiing. The beautiful and quiet settings of Goa also make it a great destination for yoga and Ayurveda.

Top Attractions in Goa

• Calangute Beach
• Basilica of Bom Jesus
• Fort Aguada
• Anjuna Beach
• Dudhsagar Waterfalls
• Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception
• Chapora Fort
• Arambol Beach
• Palolem Beach
• Vagator Beach

Things to Do in Goa

• Watersports
• Shopping in Anjuna Flea Market and Night Market
• Yoga & Ayurveda
• Visit Spice Plantation
• Bungee Jumping at Mayem Lake
• Go-Karting in Arpora
• Try Seafood
• Take an Electric Bike Tour
• Heritage Walk in Fontainhas
• Climb up to Charpora For

Check out:   Goa Tourism Packages

Agra, Uttar Pradesh: For its Unprecedented Mughal Grandeur

Home to the symbol of love, Taj Mahal , Agra in Uttar Pradesh finds its spot on the world heritage map.  With its three gems, the impressive Taj Mahal, magnificent Agra Fort and splendid Fatehpur Sikri; the city charms thousands of tourists including historians and art lovers from all across India and the world.

Agra also gives a chance to savour authentic and traditional Mughlai flavours, shopping in the lively markets teeming with marble handicrafts & fine leather items, and even soaking your spirits in the enthralling fiesta of the Taj Mahotsav. For a more closer look at this heritage city, get on an off the beaten path journey and explore the narrow alleyways of the old city, ancient temples or visit the renowned poet, Mirza Ghalib’s birthplace.

Top Attractions in Agra

• Fatehpur Sikri
• Itimad-ud-Daulah Tomb
• Mehtab Bagh
• Akbar’s Tomb/Sikandra
• Chini Ka Rauza
• Wildlife SOS

Things to Do

• Savour delicacies of Agra
• Shop at Kinari Bazar
• Watch Kalakriti Dance Drama Show
• Watch Light & Sound Show at Agra Fort
• Boat Ride on Yamuna River

Check out: Delhi Agra Jaipur Golden Triangle Tour Packages

Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh: For its Spiritual Essence

Exploration of India remains incomplete without a trip to the holy city of Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh . Also known as the city of Moksha (salvation), the place holds a great religious significance for the Hindus.

Situated on the banks of sacred river Ganga , the city is believed to be more than 5000 years old. Bustling with enchanting ancient temples and holy Ghats crowded with people performing various rituals and prayers, Varanasi makes for an ultimate spiritual travel destination India.

Varanasi offers a number of experiences such as paying homage to Lord Shiva in the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple or taking a dip in the holy waters of river Ganga absolving your sins or witnessing the famed Ganga Aarti. When in the city, a must-try is Benaras ki Chaat. Shopping in Varanasi for musical instruments and world-renowned Benarasi Silk Sarees is also a must.

Top Attractions in Varanasi

• Kashi Vishwanath Temple
• Dasaswamedh Ghat
• Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple
• New Vishwanath Temple
• Tulsi Manasa Temple
• Durga Temple
• Tibetan Temple
• Manikarnika Ghat
• Bharat Mata Mandir
• Vishwanath Gali

Things to Do in Varanasi

• Boat Ride on Ganga River
• Watch Ganga Aarti on Dasaswamedh Ghat
• Try Street Food
• Try Food at Different Cafes

Check out: 2 Nights 3 Days Varanasi Sightseeing Tour Package

Jaisalmer, Rajasthan: For its Rajputana Magnificence and Plethora of Desert Activities

Also known as the Land of the Golden Sand, Jaisalmer in Rajasthan is a beautiful city known for its rich cultural heritage and tales of brave Rajput rulers. This popular tourist destination is flanked by the expansive Thar Desert. Jaisalmer offers an authentic experience of Rajasthani culture, traditions, and heritage with its magnificent Sonar Quila or the Jaisalmer Fort, havelis, delectable food, and camel safari opportunity in the desert.

The annual Jaisalmer Desert Festival is a major attraction in the city and a visual treat. Folk dances, cultural and musical performances, campfires under open starlit sky, enthralling camel shows, local haats (shops) selling exquisite jewellery and handicrafts, can also be witnessed and experienced in this must-see festival in Jaisalmer.

Top Attractions in Jaisalmer

• Jaisalmer Fort
• Sam Sand Dunes
• Patwon ki Haveli
• Nathmal ki Haveli
• Salim Singh ki Haveli
• Kuldhara Village
• Jain Temples
• Desert National Park
• Gadisar Lake
• Tazia Tower and Badal Palace
• Tanot Mata Temple
• Windmill Park

Things to Do in Jaisalmer

• Camel Safari & Dune Bashing in Sam Dunes
• Shopping in Sadar Bazaar, Bhatia Bazaar, Manak Chowk, Pansari Bazaar
• Parasailing in Kanoi
• Paramotoring
• Quad Biking
• Desert Camping
• Wildlife safari in Desert National Park
• Watch Puppet Show
• Try delectable food of Rajasthan

Check out: Jaisalmer Sightseeing Tourism Packages

Rann of Kutch, Gujarat: For its Salt Desert and Village Life Experience

An enormous stretch of white salt desert, the Great Rann of Kutch in Gujarat is amongst the best places to visit in India. Sprawling in an area of 7500 sq km, Rann of Kutch is one of the largest salt deserts in the world and only one of its kind in India. This must-see place in Gujarat comes to life during the annual Rann Utsav when the white canvas gets painted with different hues and shades of lively folk performances and art.

Along with live folk music and dance performances, one can enjoy camel safaris and delicious Kutch cuisine. Visitors can also watch colourful migratory birds in the Chhari Dhand Bird Sanctuary, breath-taking views of the infinite expanse of the Rann from Kala Dungar and artisans creating magic with their hands by making exquisite embroidery pieces.

What adds to the charm of this memorable trip is a stay in traditional Bhungas or cylindrical shaped huts with conical roofs in the enchanting Hodka and Dhordo Villages nearby. Providing you a feel of a rustic village life.

Top Attractions in Rann of Kutch

• Kala Dungar
• Chhari Dhand Bird Sanctuary
• Dhordo Village
• Hodka Village

Things to Do in Rann of Kutch

• Attend Rann Utsav
• Stay in Hodka and Dhordo Villages

Check out: Popular Tourism Packages for Gujarat

Aurangabad, Maharashtra: For its mesmerizing architecture

Dotted with plenty of ancient monuments, Aurangabad is a historical city located in Maharashtra. A city ruled by several dynasties in the past, today boasts of its rich heritage with its architectural marvels reminding the tales of once reigning dynasties. Mostly famed for its stunning Buddhist cave paintings of Ajanta and Ellora, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Aurangabad is the best destination to visit for history buffs.

Annually, Aurangabad organizes a cultural fiesta of Ellora Ajanta Festival which showcases the talent of a number of dancers and musicians across the country with the backdrop of illuminated 1400 years old caves. This festival adds to the charm of this historic city and provides one more reason for the art lovers to visit Aurangabad.

When in Aurangabad, do not give a miss to the lifetime opportunity of adding to your wardrobe, a traditional and exquisite collection of fine hand-woven Himroo and Paithani silk, a speciality of the city.

Top Attractions in Aurangabad

• Grishneshwar Temple
• Bibi Ka Maqbara
• Ajanta Caves
• Ellora Caves
• Daulatabad Fort
• Aurangabad Caves
• Siddharth Garden
• Bani Begum Garden

Things to Do in Aurangabad

• Eat at Yalla Yalla and Bhoj
• Photography

Check out: Best of Maharashtra Tour Packages

Sunderbans, West Bengal: For its rich wildlife and rustic charm

Home to the world’s largest mangrove forests and a large population of Royal Bengal Tigers, Sunderbans in West Bengal is one of the most famous wildlife destinations in India. Situated in the delta formed by Brahmaputra, Ganges, and Meghna Rivers, Sunderbans is also home to a large number of wild animals, reptiles and birds. It is also recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.

Things to Do in West Bengal

• Sight Royal Bengal Tigers
• Watch playful Gangetic Dolphins
• Wildlife Photography
• Village Tour
• Witness Phytoplanktons in Night Safari
• Witness the Freshwater Crocs at Bhagabatpur Crocodile Project

Check out: West Bengal Tour Packages

Hampi, Karnataka: For its brilliantly carved monuments

A city immersed in the glorious past of the Vijayanagara Empire dating back to the period between 14th and 16th century, Hampi in Karnataka is another great place to visit for history buffs . Ruins of this ancient city with its number of strikingly beautiful monuments, temples and palaces still tell you the tales of grandeur and magnificence of the Vijayanagara rulers.

A trip to this historic place in Karnataka is incomplete without being part of its annually held musical extravaganza of Hampi Utsav. During the festival, one can enjoy live cultural dance performances with the backdrop of the splendid ruins lit up with lights which makes it an exceptional sight to behold.

Top Attractions in Hampi

• Virupaksha Temple
• Vithala Temple
• Lotus Palace
• Yantrodharaka Hanuman Temple
• Hampi Bazar
• Hippie Island
• Queen’s Bath
• Matanga Hills
• Elephant Stable
• Monolith Bull

Things to Do in Hampi

• Watch the sunset from Hanuman Temple
• Coracle Ride in Tungbhadra River
• Cliff Jumping in Hampi’s Lake

Check out:  Karnataka Holiday Packages

Mysore, Karnataka: For its rich culture and abundance of attractions

Considered to be the cultural capital of Karnataka in South India, Mysore is a historic city known for its beautiful palaces and gardens. Every attraction of Mysore tells a story related to the city’s glorious past. Whether it is the magnificent Mysore City Palace dazzling with thousands of bulbs or Brindavan Gardens lined up with musical fountains, Mysore does not miss an opportunity to woo its visitors. A major attraction in Mysore is the royal procession of colourfully decked up elephants during the world famous Mysore Dasara Festival.  The city is also famous for its beautiful silk saree and delicious sweet, Mysore Pak.

Top Attractions in Mysore

• Mysore Palace
• Brindavan Gardens
• Somanathpura Temple
• Chamundeshwari Temple
• Bonsai Garden
• Karanji Lake
• GRS Fantasy Park
• St. Philomena’s Church

Things to Do in Mysore

• Yoga Training
• Buy Mysore Silk Saree
• Try Local Dishes
• Buy Mysore Pak

Recommended Tour Packages

• 4 Nights 5 Days Bangalore Mysore Ooty Tour Package
• 5 Nights 6 Days Bangalore Mysore Nagarhole Tour Package

Kaziranga National Park, Assam: For sighting one-horned rhinos and royal Bengal tigers

Home to the largest population of the vulnerable species of one-horned rhinoceros, Kaziranga National Park in Assam is one of the best wildlife destinations in India. Kaziranga has also been recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site and is also famous for its elephant grass. Apart from the one-horned rhinos, Kaziranga is home to Hoolock Gibbon, Tiger, Leopard, Indian Elephant, Sloth Bear, Wild water buffalo, and swamp deer among many other species of wildlife.

Top Things to Do in Kaziranga National Park

• Jeep Safari
• One-horned Rhino Sighting
• Tiger Sighting

Check out:  Kaziranga Wildlife Safari Tour Packages

Rishikesh, Uttarakhand: For learning yoga and enjoying adventure activities

Seated on the bank of holy River Ganga, Rishikesh in Uttarakhand is an unmissable destination in India. Also dubbed the Yoga Capital of the country, Rishikesh is primarily visited by either yoga aspirants or those seeking a spiritual experience. Learning yoga in the ashrams of Rishikesh and in the evening watching the Ganga Aarti are two of the best experiences in the city. But that’s not all that Rishikesh offers, there are many adventure activities inviting you for an experience of a lifetime. Adventure lovers can indulge in activities like camping, white water rafting, bungee jumping from India’s highest platform, and flying fox (Asia’s longest ride).

Top Attractions in Rishikesh

• Lakshman Jhula
• Triveni Ghat
• The Beatles Ashram
• Neelkantha Mahadeva Temple
• Triambakeshwar Temple

Things to Do in Rishikesh

• White Water Rafting
• Bungee Jumping
• Giant Swing
• Cliff Jumping
• Witness Ganga Aarti
• 3 Nights 4 Days Mussoorie Tour with Rishikesh
• 7 Nights 8 Days Best of Garhwal Himalayas Tour

Jaipur, Rajasthan: For rich architecture, food, and shopping

The Pink City, Jaipur is a destination you cannot miss when visiting India. Jaipur is a perfect reflection of what the royal state of Rajasthan is about – it is elegant, replete with fine monuments, and is rich in culture. Due to preserving and conserving its rich heritage, the city has been recognized by UNESCO a World Heritage Site.

The capital city is dotted with numerous palaces and forts, an open-air observatory, state museum and other museums, and many traditional places to eat. The city also has another side where it offers high-end malls, fancy restaurants, gardens, and much more for its visitors.

Top Attractions in Jaipur

• City Palace
• Jantar Mantar
• Nahargarh Fort
• Jaigarh Fort
• Albert Hall Museum
• Galta Ji Temple
• Birla Temple
• Moti Dungri Temple
• Masala Chowk

Things to Do in Jaipur

• Old City Heritage Walk
• Watch Sunset from Nahargarh Fort
• Hot Air Ballooning
• Watch Cultural Performances
• Sample Rajasthani Cuisine
• Learn About Block Printing
• Witness Elephant Festival
• Attend Jaipur Literature Festival

Check out: Best of Jaipur Sightseeing Tour Packages

Amritsar, Punjab: For Golden Temple, Food, and Cheering Indian Army

Home to the gorgeous Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib), Amritsar in Punjab is a destination that should be included in your India travel itinerary. Even though the Sikh sacred shrine (Golden Temple) makes for the top attraction in Amritsar, there are still plenty of other places that are worth seeing in the city. Amritsar is a reflection of India’s independence struggle and is also in close proximity to the Indo-Pak Border (Wagah/Attari Border).

The city allows a unique experience of witnessing the lowering of the flags ceremony at the Attari-Wagah border by the military of both India and Pakistan. Other than this, the city is a food lover’s paradise. From Amritsari Kulcha to Amritsari Fish to Lassi, the city has so much to offer to you.

Top Attractions in Amritsar

• Golden Temple
• Wagah Border
• Jallianwala Bagh
• Hall Bazaar
• Gobindgarh Fort
• Shopping for Phulkari and Jutis
• Try speciality of Amritsar food
• Eat at Guru ka Langar
• Cheer For Indian Soldiers at Wagah Border Flag Ceremony
• Watch Light & Sound Show at Gobindgarh Fort
• 3 Nights 4 Days Amritsar Tour Package
• 4 Nights 5 Days Punjab Gurudwara Tour

Lambasingi, Kashmir of Andhra Pradesh

Little enchanting village of Lambasingi lies in the city of Visakhapatnam. It is one of the best places to visit in India. The most interesting fact about Lambasingi is that it is the only place in South India to receive snowfall in winter. It is also known as ‘Kashmir of Andhra Pradesh’. Blessed with gorgeous beauty of nature, it is a place where you can escape and disappear in the folds of time, away from the chaos of the world. Lofty hills, greenery all around, dense forests, gorgeous valleys, green plantations and thrilling adventure activities like trekking, hiking, mountain biking and camping will make your sightseeing and day exciting at Lambasingi.

Top Places to Visit in Lambasingi

• Thajangi Reservoir
• Kothapalli Waterfalls
• Susan Garden
• Bojjannakonda
• Kondakarla Bird Sanctuary
• Annavaram Temple
• Yerravaram Waterfalls

Top Things to Do in Lambasingi

• Visit Kothapalli waterfalls
• Experience Snowfall
• Camping in Lambasingi would be fun
• Bird watching at Kondakarla Bird Sanctuary
• Nature Walk at Ghat Road
• Strolling at the stunning Gardens, Apple Orchards and Emerald plantations

Other Interesting Blog to Read

• Best Places to Visit in Andhra Pradesh

Shimla, Mesmerizing Queen of hills

Decked with green hills at an altitude of 2,205 meters, the erstwhile summer capital of British India is one of the most popular hill stations and favorite destination in India. You will witness the beauty of Pine and Oak forests, steep hillsides, colonial buildings, colorful markets and stunning Lamp Posts makes this place quite gorgeous to capture in your lens. honeymooners, nature lovers and families throughout the year visit Shimla at least once. From mid-July to September, Shimla is covered with snow which is a bliss for snow lovers. Which opens the gates for thrilling adventure sports like Skiing, trekking, ice skating and paragliding etc.  The town’s nightlife, games of Golf, elite clubs will blow your heart away.

Top Places to Visit in Shimla

• Jakhoo Hill
• Visceral Lodge
• Green Valley
• Christ Church
• Tara Devi Temple
• The Mall Road
• Kalka Shimla Toy Train
• Himachal State Museum
• Lakkar Bazaar

Top Things to Do in Shimla

• Toy Train Ride
• Ice Skating
• Rafting at Tattapani
• Nature Walks in Pine Forests
• Gorgeous views of Summer Hill
• Divine blessings at Tara Devi Temple

Other Interesting Blogs to Read

• Best Places to Visit in Shimla Himachal
• Best Tourist Places in Manali
• Top Summer Destinations in Himachal

Shillong- Rejoice Your Soul with Mesmerising Nature Vistas

Shillong , Meghalaya’s capital, is surrounded by thick pine trees. Shillong, one of Northeast India’s most popular hill stations, is recognized for its scenic beauty, waterfalls, and fresh breeze. The city is also known as East Scotland. Shillong is home to many hill tribes on the one hand, but it also has a young, modern culture. The city is well-known as India’s music capital.

Top Places to Visit in Shillong

• Shillong Peak and Viewpoint
• Laitlum Canyons
• Police Bazar
• Mary helps for Christian Cathedral
• Ward’s Lake
• Sweet Falls
• Spread Eagle Falls

Top Things to Do in Shillong

• Horse Riding
• Cup of Coffee at Cafes
• Nature Walks
• Rock Climbing
• Sightseeing
• Top Snowfall Destinations in North East India Which Will Blow Your Heart Away
• Best Places to Visit in Sikkim, North East India

Imphal, Manipur

Imphal , set amidst forested hills, is a revitalising respite for those who live in congested cities. Imphal provides them with beautiful hills and valleys. In Northeast India, it is well-known as a honeymoon destination. There are several historical sites in the area that highlight the state’s cultural variety. Imphal’s culinary delicacies must be sampled to get a full picture of the city.

Top Places to Visit in Imphal

• Kangla Palace
• Matai Garden
• Tharon Cave
• Ema Keithel
• Manipur State Museum
• Sirohi National Park
• Imphal War Cemetery

Top Things to Do in Imphal

• Sightseeing of Heritage destinations
• 2 Nights 3 Days Imphal Manipur Tour Package
• 4 Nights 5 Days Imphal Sightseeing Tour Package

Dimapur, Nagaland

Dimapur, Nagaland’s main city and economic centre, is proud of its indigenous culture and traditions. Dimapur has something for everyone, from the Kachari ruins to the Triple Falls and forests with various flora and animals. It is the gateway to other Himalayan locations and is one of the most well-known tourist attractions in Northeast India. The Hornbill Festival brings Dimapur to life.

Top Places to See in Dimapur

• The Triple Falls
• Shiva Temple
• Zoological Park
• Nagaland Science Centre
• Hong Kong Market
• Kachari Ruins
• Sumi Town Baptist Church
• Chumukedima Village

Top Things to Do in Dimapur

• Traditional Homestays
• Waterfall Tours
• Nature Sightseeing and photography
• Wildlife Sighting
• Village Walks
• Try different Cuisines
• Popular Tourist Places in Nagaland
• Popular Wildlife Sanctuaries & National Parks in Nagaland
• What to Expect While Traveling to Nagaland in December?

Udaipur, Rajasthan: The City of Lakes

The city of Udaipur  is also known as ‘Venice of the East’, due to its many beautiful lakes. Founded in 1556, Udaipur is named after Maharaja Udai Singh II and is situated at the base of the Aravalli hills in southern Rajasthan. A popular tourist destination with its palaces, temples, and havelis, Udaipur has now emerged as a popular location for pre-wedding shoots and destination weddings. The city has remained the capital of the Mewar kingdom for decades and has managed to keep the culture alive with its folk songs and dances. A city of the royals, you will definitely enjoy your stay here.

Top Places to Visit in Udaipur

• City Palace Udaipur
• Lake Pichola
• Lake Palace
• Monsoon Palace
• Swaroop Sagar Lake
• Fateh Sagar Lake
• Nehru Garden
• Bagore ki Haveli
• Saheliyon ki Bari
• Karni Mata Temple

Top Things to Do in Udaipur

• Boating at Lake Pichola
• Ride the ropeway to Karni Mata Temple
• Shop at Hathi Pol Bazaar
• Enjoy a royal stay at Lake Palace
• Enjoy sunsets at the lakes
• Watch the light and sound show at City Palace
• Go trekking among the Aravalli hills

Also Read: Historical Places to Visit in Udaipur

Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh:  Beauty of the Cold Desert

Situated at a height of more than 13,000 ft above sea level, Himachal Pradesh’s Spiti Valley  is a beautiful landscape with tranquil monasteries and the mighty Himalayas. The Valley is bordered by Tibet on the north, and as a result tends to share a lot of the traits in its culture. The silent valley of Spiti has acquired a number of monasteries over the years since it provides the perfect atmosphere for spiritual development like the Tabo Monastery at Spiti, which was built in 996 CE and is the oldest monastery in India. The Valley, though provides serene monasteries but it also offers some amazing adventure and water sports for those who love to feel the adrenaline.

Top Places to Visit in Spiti Valley

• Tabo Monastery
• Key Monastery
• Losar village
• Kibber village
• Trilokinath Temple
• Chandratal Lake
• Suraj Tal Lake
• Pin Valley National Park
• Kunzum Pass

Top Things to Do in Spiti Valley

• Go river rafting at the Spiti River
• Admire endangered species at Pin Valley National Park
• Visit the monasteries for a peaceful experience
• Trek to the Dhankar Lake
• Take a mountain bike trip at Spiti
• Enjoy stargazing at Kibber

Also Read: Snow Tourist Places in Himachal

Ranthambore, Rajasthan: Land of the Royal Bengal Tigers

The Tiger Reserve at Ranthambore is one of the prominent tiger reserves in the world and houses the big cat species of the Bengal Tiger. Ranthambore Tiger Reserve  or the Ranthambore National Park is situated in Sawai Madhopur, in the north Indian state of Rajasthan. It is one of the larger habitats of tigers in the country and was established as a wildlife sanctuary in 1955 that later worked its way to form one of the major tiger reserves of India. It is mainly known for its tigers that stay awake during the day unlike most tigers who are active at night. Due to the number of tigers in the park who roam around freely, you are sure to see some on your visit.

Top Places to Visit in Ranthambore

• Ranthambore Fort
• Surwal Lake
• Malik Talao
• Trinetra Ganesha Temple
• Padam Talao
• Raj Bagh Ruins
• Rajiv Gandhi Regional Museum of Natural History

Top Things to Do in Ranthambore

• Take a jeep or canter safari to spot the tigers at the reserve
• Indulge in bird watching at Surwal Lake
• Hike to the Ranthambore Fort
• Visit the Trinetra Ganesha Temple

Also Read:   Interesting Facts About Ranthambore

Junagadh, Gujarat:  A Scenic Fort City

Located in Gujarat, Junagadh is a historical city and a place you must visit on your trip to the state. Steeped in history, the city has seen several rulers during its existence from the Mauryas to the Mughals. As important as it is historically, Junagadh is also a popular pilgrimage destination for followers of several religions, such as Hinduism, Jainism, Islam, and Buddhism. Located in the foothills of Mount Girnar, the city is also close to one of the prominent national parks of India, the Gir National Park.

Top Places to Visit in Junagadh

• Mahabat Khan Maqbara
• Uparkot Fort
• Darbar Hall Museum
• Ashoka Edicts
• Khapra Kodia Caves
• Jain Temples at Girnar
• Dattatreya Temple at Girnar
• Shree Swaminarayan Mandir
• Sakkarbaug Zoological Garden
• Gir National Park
• Tulsi Shyam Springs

Top Things to Do in Junagadh

• Take a wildlife safari at Gir National Park to sight Asiatic lions
• Explore the Uparkot Fort and the buddhist caves
• Observe the rock edicts by Ashoka
• Ride a ropeway to the top of Mount Girnar
• Go for a morning stroll at Moti Baug
• Indulge in the delicious Kathiawadi cuisine

Also Read:   Top Weekend Getaways in Gujarat

Jim Corbett, Uttarakhand: For the Bengal Tigers and Tuskers

The Jim Corbett National Park in Uttarakhand  is located in the foothills of the Himalayas, near Nainital and is a popular tourist destination. It is the first national park established in India in 1936 and has the highest number of Royal Bengal Tigers among the country’s tiger reserves. The national park offers jeep and canter  for its visitors.  Jim Corbett National Park stands out with its varied landscapes of dense forests, rivers, grasslands, hills, valleys, lakes, rocky terrains, and waterfalls.

Top Places to Visit in Jim Corbett

• Garjiya Temple
• Corbett Falls
• Corbett Museum
• Sitabani Forest Reserve
• Kalagarh Dam
• Sonanadi Range

Top Things to Do in Jim Corbett

• Take a jeep safari at the park
• Go for a nature walk with a guide
• Enjoy a night stay at the park
• Try river rafting in the Kosi River
• Enjoy a hot air balloon ride

Also Read: Best Hotels & Resorts to Stay in Corbett National Park

Let Us Find Out What to Expect in Different Seasons in India         

What to Expect in Summer Season in India?

The summer season in India commences in the month of March and ends in May. India’s vast geographic scale and varied topography make generalizations a little difficult. However, summers in India are quite hot with an exception to the Himalayan states and hill stations in other parts of the country.

In the month of March, India celebrates its one of the biggest and most colourful festivals of Holi. In different parts of the country, Holi is celebrated in different ways and each one is a must-see. In Vrindavan (Uttar Pradesh), Holi is played with flowers, whereas a few kilometers away in Barsana, the festival is celebrated in a distinctive way where women playfully beat the men with sticks.

In Rajasthan’s capital, Jaipur, an Elephant Festival is celebrated, in which the animal is decorated with paints and ornaments and taken to a procession. In West Bengal’s Santiniketan, Holi is celebrated as the Basanta Utsav or the Dol Utsav. The festival celebrates the arrival of spring season with music, dance, food, and colours.

The months of March and April, the Himalayan states (Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Sikkim) see blooming of many flowers including rhododendron. The summer months in the Himalayan states are also considered best for trekking tours and other adventures. Wildlife tours in summers in India are also quite popular amongst the tourists who come to sight tigers and the rich flora & fauna of the country.

What to Expect in Monsoon Season in India?

The monsoon season in India arrives by mid-June and ends in September. Monsoons first reach the southern India state of Kerala where the weather becomes ideal for enjoying Ayurveda massages. In this season, Kerala also organizes its traditional Snake Boat Races. In north India, Ladakh becomes fully accessible with opportunities of sightseeing and several adventures like trekking, motorbiking, river rafting. In Kashmir Valley, the sacred Amarnath Yatra along with opportunities of trekking opens in the monsoon season.

The rains are on the heavier side in the Himalayan state of Uttarakhand and Himachal. While in Uttarakhand, many spiritual treks along with a trek to Valley of Flowers open in the rainy season, in Himachal, the district of Lahaul & Spiti along with a number of treks invite the travellers.

Monsoon is also the best time to visit the northeastern state of Meghalaya. The state is known for its waterfalls that come alive in the rainy season. In western India (Maharashtra & Goa), monsoon season is the time of festivity with grand celebrations of Janmashtami and monsoon festival. The rainy reason is also a good time to explore the Western Ghats that are rich in flora & fauna.

What to Expect in Winter Season in India?

The winter season in India begins in October and continues till February. This season is considered the best time to visit India. The months of October and November celebrate some of the biggest festivals in India, Dussehra and Diwali. The festivity is something worth visiting in the country. In December, Goa comes to life with tourists thronging to celebrate Christmas and New Year.

In the Himalayan states, winter months of December to February are the time for the snowfall. In Kashmir’s Gulmarg, Uttarakhand’s Auli, and Himachal’s Solang Valley, these winter months are the best time for skiing adventures. Ladakh, on the other side, opens one of the best winter treks in India, Chadar/Frozen Lake Trek. Winter trekking is open in all the Himalayan states and is an experience to remember.

With the arrival of winter, Gujarat’s famous Great Rann of Kutch organizes its annual festival, Rann Utsav, which is definitely a must-see. Another worth seeing festival in winters is the Taj Mahotsav in Agra. The winter season is also an ideal time to explore states that are difficult to visit in summer due to extreme temperature such as Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu.

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Disclaimer: We do not take credit for some of the licenced paid images used in our blogs, whether from Google Images, Fotolia & Shutterstock. All such images are the copyrights of their respective owners and we try to provide credit for them wherever we can. If, however, any copyright image has been used on our blog, the concerned person can either mail us directly to remove the image or provide credit to whomsoever the image may belong to.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. what are the best places for nature lovers in india.

When exploring different places in India, one can visit a number of tourist destinations that are perfect for nature lovers. Some of them are mentioned in the list below:

• Andaman & Nicobar

Q. What are the best places for adventure in India?

The following are the best destinations for adventure in India:

Q. What are the most visited places in India?

The most visited places in India include the following:

Q. What is the best time to visit India for holidays?

India can be visited round the year due to its varied topography. There are destinations that can be visited in different seasons. However, the best time to visit India is considered to be between October and April.

Q. Which are the best yoga, meditation, and Ayurveda destinations in India?

The best yoga, meditation, and Ayurveda destinations in India are:

• Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
• Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh

Q. Is it safe to visit India in the monsoon season?

Yes, it is safe to visit India in the monsoon season. However, it is advised to check the weather forecast and keep an eye on the news of the destination you want to visit in India.

Q. Is travelling to India in the summer season convenient?

India has a varied topography and one should make the most of this opportunity. In the summer season, the temperature across India can go up to 40 degree Celsius, but in the Himalayan states and other hill stations in India, the weather remains pleasant and under 30 degree Celsius. Therefore, it is recommended to plan a visit to places with cooler weather conditions in the summer season.

Published: 07 Nov, 2020 | Last Updated:  09 Feb, 2024

About the author

Nidhi Singh

From the Lake District, Nainital, Nidhi Singh is a travel writer whose love for mountains can be seen in her write ups. Talk about solo travelling, indulging in adventure activities, binging on good food, planning budget trips or the Aurora Borealis and you will get all her attention. It is the wanderlust that keeps her going and if at all she could get one wish granted she would love to live a life less ordinary. Follow her on Twitter , Facebook & Instagram .

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India Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

I’ve never been to India. I know. Crazy, right? It’s not that I don’t want to go but life has just always gotten in the way. However, India is a place a lot of people visit and, since I can’t write about it, I want to bring in someone who can: my friend Mariellen Ward. She’d a travel writer who has been going to India since 2005 and runs the website Breathedreamgo . We’ve known each other since 2010. Today, she’s going to share some tips on how to visit India for first-time visitors.

I will never forget my first time visiting India. My first car trip in Delhi felt like a roller-coaster ride. Cars and trucks of every size, overloaded bicycles and motorcycles, and even the occasional bullock cart, seemed to be coming at me from every direction. No one was paying any attention to lanes or the rules of the road. Vehicles were driving the wrong way. I couldn’t make sense of what was happening.

I had heard about the “sensory overload” travelers feel in India, and now I was experiencing it. It was exciting and nerve-wracking in equal measure. And just a taste of things to come.

I spent six months crisscrossing the subcontinent on my first trip, back in 2005 and was often overwhelmed by the huge crowds, the foreign traditions, the perplexing bureaucracy, the mind-boggling complexity, and the bewildering culture shock.

These things combined make India a challenging — though very exciting and rewarding —destination.

However, if you read and follow these travel tips for first-time visitors, they could help smooth out some of the more disorienting bumps.

1. Slow down

It takes time and some know-how to successfully navigate in India. This is not a place for hurried travel. Don’t try and see as much as you can; that is not the right approach. It’s tiring to travel in India, and the object should be to experience it, not to check things off a list.

As a general rule, for every two weeks you are in India, pick one region. For a one-month trip, just pick two regions — say, two weeks in Rajasthan and two weeks in Kerala . You can even sit in one place and still not miss anything. No matter what, if you are in India, you will experience India.

2. Adjust your attitude

Likewise, accept that things will not go as planned. Cultivate the philosophy that things happen the way they are supposed to, not the way they are planned. This attitude can lead to the most marvelous adventures.

3. Be careful who you trust

Having said that it’s a good idea to be open, a healthy level of skepticism also comes in really handy in India. There are many con men there, especially in the travel and hospitality sector. They have a sixth sense for first-time visitors and will try and take advantage.

So, learn the prices by asking locals and other travelers before negotiating with auto-rickshaw drivers and market vendors. Don’t believe drivers — or random people you come across at airports, train stations, and tourist attractions — who tell you things such as your hotel burned down, or the train you want was canceled.

Often, an opportunity to make money off of you will spur creative tactics, and some of these scams can easily catch you off guard. Once, I was looking for a new iPhone case and the vendor showed me one and told me it was made by Apple. But a close look revealed four spelling mistakes in one short sentence engraved inside the case.

4. Practice safe travel

There are also anecdotal reports of women being molested, especially in busy, crowded places. Follow basic precautions and safe travel strategies, and use common sense in India.

Here are several safety travel tips (please read my top tips for women traveling in India for more details):

• Buy a local SIM card so that you can make local calls and stay in touch.
• Research carefully where you want to go, ensuring it is an area frequented by other travelers, with good infrastructure and hotels.
• Plan your travel so you don’t arrive late at night; travel during daylight hours only.
• Be careful when posting to social media, so that you are not revealing your current location.
• Stay alert to your surroundings, and keep a close eye on your handbag and luggage.
• Keep the Tourist Helpline number handy and call if you need any assistance: 1-800-111363.

5. Try a small group tour

For your first time in India, try taking a small group or custom tour to help you get your feet wet. My company, India for Beginners , was founded to help women travel safely and well in India. We offer a few small group tours, but we specialize in creating custom tours and providing a high level of personal service, such as meeting travelers at the airport and assigning a tour manager who is available 24/7. We hold your hand in India!

6. Take the train

Taking a train in India is a great experience and should not be missed. However, you need some basic knowledge about the classes and the trains. You may not want to dive into sleeper class or general class immediately; I would recommend 2AC (second class with air conditioning) or CC (chair car). Or even 1AC (first class with air conditioning) or EC (executive chair car).

Shatabdi and Rajdhani trains are among the best in India, so try and book one of these. Overnight trains can be a problem because they don’t clean the toilets at night, so keep that in mind when you book.

7. Eat the food

India is one of the world’s great culinary destinations, and first-time visitors should not shy away from trying all the delicious cuisine on offer, even street food. Some of the famous Indian items you shouldn’t miss are masala chai, sweet lassi, biryani, pakoras, dosas, and sweets such as gulab jamun and kheer.

It’s hard to avoid getting sick in India, though, because you never know when a tainted item will cross your plate. It could be at a street stall or a five-star restaurant. However, you can reduce the chances of getting sick by following these basic rules:

• Drink filtered or bottled water only.
• Watch for undistilled water in ice or sauces.
• Avoid salad and other raw food unless you can peel it (such as an orange or banana).
• Eat only food that is freshly cooked.
• Look for busy stalls and restaurants with high turnover.

8. Get a local SIM card

Everything in India runs on WhatsApp, one-time password (OTP) verification, and text messages. Because of this, you need a local number. To do so, get a local SIM at the airport when you arrive. Still, you may have trouble paying for things online with a foreign credit card, as India requires OTP verification, and getting registered with Indian Railways so you buy train tickets online is nearly impossible.

9. Remember where you are

For example, unless you’re on the beach in Goa, it’s wise to wear modest clothing in India . Long, loose, and flowing are key for dressing for the climate and the culture.

It’s also best to be very respectful, especially with regard to the myriad religions. And be aware that genders relate differently in India, and overfriendliness can be misconstrued. Be polite, but with strangers, and especially those working in the hospitality sector, it’s usually best to dial back effusive friendliness.

10. Follow the seasons

Weather and the season matter in India. It’s incredibly hot almost everywhere in May and June, the monsoon season is July to August, and it’s surprisingly cold in north India in winter, December to February. Do some research and find out the best places to visit in India by season .

So, when it’s cold in north India, head down to tropical Kerala or Goa and hit the beach. In the heat of summer, check out Ladakh, a high desert plateau that sometimes seems otherworldly. Note: Fall is festival season, so you can experience Durga Puja in Kolkata, Diwali in Jaipur, or the Camel Fair in Pushkar.

11. Visit attractions in the morning

(However, this rule does not apply to shopping. Stores, and even restaurants, tend not to open until 10 or even 11 am. Urban Indians tend to do everything late. Breakfast and lunch are late, and dinner can be very late indeed.)

12. Head into the countryside

You can go trekking in the mountains, take a tiger safari , visit one of the many national parks, camp out overnight on a sand dune in Rajasthan, or take a boat cruise on the Brahmaputra River.

And don’t forget the rural areas. Most Indians still live in villages. It’s really worthwhile to meander through the quaint villages of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, or Uttarakhand.

India is not an easy place to travel. It’s not a relaxing vacation destination. It is, though, an experience — often a life-changing experience. Start by doing research, read books about India , watch movies about the country, learn about the cultures and various destinations, and get ready for a transformative travel experience.

Like many before you — from The Beatles to Steve Jobs to Elizabeth Gilbert — you may just fall in love with the place. As writer Rumer Godden said, “Once you have felt the dust of India, you will never be free of it.”

Mariellen Ward fell in love with India, with travel, and with travel blogging on her first trip to the country in 2005. She has spent more than seven years of the last 18 in India, and now lives there. Though Canadian by birth, Mariellen considers India to be her “soul culture.” With her travel blog, Breathedreamgo , she tries to encourage and help other female travelers to go after their dreams. And her custom tour company, India for Beginners , is dedicated to helping women travel safely and well in India.

Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner . It’s my favorite search engine because it searches websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is being left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld . If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• SafetyWing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those 70 and over)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Want to Travel for Free? Travel credit cards allow you to earn points that can be redeemed for free flights and accommodation — all without any extra spending. Check out my guide to picking the right card and my current favorites to get started and see the latest best deals.

Need Help Finding Activities for Your Trip? Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can find cool walking tours, fun excursions, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more.

Ready to Book Your Trip? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use when I travel. They are the best in class and you can’t go wrong using them on your trip.

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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India is so geographically varied that every travel enthusiast in the world would love to take India tour at least once in their lifetime. From lush green forests to daunting deserts, pristine beaches to mighty snow-capped mountains, from Chardham of North to Meenakshi of Madurai. India is rich with varied landscapes; each one more attractive than the other.

Apart from the geographical undulations, the diversity in the culture, food, language and even flora and fauna found in the various regions of India is quite fascinating. This affluence is the reason why India holiday packages are so popular.

Thomas Cook provides you with an extensive range of India tour packages to suit your desires. When it comes to choosing the best places to visit in India, our holiday expert will help you choose the most sought-after holiday destination. Covering almost every destination in India, these incredible India tour packages are apt to take you to enthralling hill stations, quaint hamlets, cosmopolitan metros and rejuvenating coastal towns. With our distinct packages, you can choose to take a relaxing break for a few days or go on an adventure spree around the many thrilling activity hubs around the country. Not to forget our India travel guides which will allow you to indulge in top sightseeing and activities in any part of India.

Thomas Cook offers a wide range of exciting India travel packages. You simply need to decide on a day of travel and pick the place to spend your holidays, and we will do the rest. Take your spouse, go with your buddies or plan a solo trip, whatever may be your vacation plan, we will make it happen.

Most Popular Thomas Cook Indian Holidays

Although India has a huge assortment of lovely holiday destinations to pick from, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, Kashmir, Goa, Leh-Ladakh , Andaman and Nicobar islands and certain regions of North East India form the cream layer of the most popular India tour packages. Choosing the best places to visit in India is not very difficult, as every place in India has its own flavor, culture and peculiarity. Easy to customize and extremely flexible, these Indian tour packages offered by Thomas Cook are the best-selling deals and are a favourite among tourists, both within India and abroad. Thomas Cook offers meticulously designed travel packages for different locales in the country. Furthermore, we provide packages both with fixed departure plans and also those that can be fully customized based on the travellers’ specific needs.

While Thomas Cook offers most of the bestselling India holiday packages including that of Sikkim, Darjeeling, Coorg, Kashmir, Goa and more, we also specialize in other offbeat and comparatively lesser frequented vacation spots in India viz. Pondicherry, Tirupati, Tawang, Mahabaleshwar et al.

Variety of India Holiday Packages

At Thomas Cook website, you will not just find packages for every destination in India worth a visit, but also for every occasion, mood or company. We have a variety of special themed holiday packages like honeymoon packages in Gods own country Kerala, pilgrimage tours to the pious Char Dham, beach holiday packages to the alluring Goa, luxury vacations in the divine Nilgiris, adventure tours to the spirited Gir and so on. Thomas Cook has something for every wandering soul. All you need to do is make up your mind and book a tour with us, and we will take care of the rest.

Bon Voyage.

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40 Best Places to Visit in India Before You Die

I n this article, we shall discuss the 40 best places to visit in India before you die. To skip our detailed analysis of the tourism industry in India in 2024, go directly and see 10 Best Places to Visit in India Before You Die .

According to figures by the  World Travel & Tourism Council, India is currently the tenth largest country in the world in terms of the travel and tourism industry's total contribution to the country's GDP, which currently stands north of $191.3 billion as of 2023. Moreover, the country's tourism sector is a critical source of foreign exchange, with India offering more than 40 UNESCO world heritage sites, 10 bio-geographic zones, 105 national parks, and 560 wildlife sanctuaries, many of which rank amongst some of the best places to visit in India before you die . India's travel agency business is severely dominated by MSMEs (micro, small, and medium enterprises), with more than 300,000 travel agent businesses facilitating seamless travel to some of the best places to visit in India , thereby representing the largest volumes of business in booking at about more than 52% of the travel market. These are heavily segmented across multiple diverse categories of service providers, like travel packages, cab, and bus booking companies. This segment is expected to reach more than $65 billion by 2027. The country's international tourist arrivals are expected to reach more than 30.5 million by 2028. These are increasingly optimistic figures, especially considering the fact that India was one of the hardest hit countries during the COVID-19 pandemic as virtually all public movement in the country was restricted.

Zooming In On India's Economic Boom

Our article on the 35 Most Visited Countries in the World in 2024 projects India to be one of the fastest growing tourist destinations for leisure-travel spending by 2026, causing stocks like Booking Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ: BKNG ), Airbnb Inc. (NASDAQ: ABNB ), and MakeMyTrip Ltd. (NASDAQ: MMYT ) to divert greater investments in India's bustling tourism market. According to a report by McKinsey, India's economic boom and staggering population growth lands it amongst an elite group of countries which are expected to deliver record international travel in the coming years, with the number of total trips skyrocketing from 13 million in 2022 to more than 80 million in 2040. This is supplemented by the fact that India is now the fifth largest economy in the world and its population, predominantly below the age of 25, has overtaken China to become the largest in the world with over 1.4 billion people.

Investing in the Indian Market Potential

Our article on the 10 Best India ETFs sheds light upon the optimism surrounding India's economic boom which peaked investor interest in many India-focused ETFs like iShares MSCI India Small-Cap ETF (BATS:SMIN), which tracks the investment results of the MSCI India Small Cap Index. The index comprises relatively small Indian companies in terms of market cap, thereby providing targeted access to the small cap segment of the Indian stock market. Over the past five years, the ETF is up 93.01% as of April 20.  Introduced on February 8 2012, iShares MSCI India Small-Cap ETF (BATS:SMIN) holds net assets worth more than $858 million and a price-to-earnings ratio of 28.2% as of April 20. Furthermore, as of April 20, it features a portfolio of 486 holdings with the most prominent ones being Voltas Ltd. (NSE:VOLTAS), Max Financial Services Ltd. (NSE:MSFL), and BSE Ltd. (NSE:BSE). Another ETF attracting positive investor interest is WisdomTree India Earnings Fund (NYSE:EPI), which aims to provide investors with exposure to the broad Indian all cap equity of profitable enterprises with a value centric approach. With an expense ratio of 0.85%, the ETF's total assets are valued at $2.91 million as of April 20. Over the past year, the ETF is up 36.9% as of April 20. Some of the most prominent components in the ETF are Reliance Industries Ltd. (NSE:RELIANCE), ICICI Bank Ltd. (NYSE: IBN ), and Coal India Ltd. (NSE:COALINDIA). As a result of these economic tailwinds, prominent travel stocks like Booking Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ:BKNG), Airbnb Inc. (NASDAQ:ABNB), and MakeMyTrip Ltd. (NASDAQ:MMYT) are hoping to capitalize on India's economic growth wave and its expanding middle class.

India's impressive economic gains have also resulted in infrastructural advancement, with enhanced air and road connectivity facilitating global demand for tourism to the best places to visit in India whilst driving sector-wide growth as well. For instance, one primary beneficiary of this advancement is the airline travel market in India, which was valued at $20 billion in 2020 and is projected to double in size by 2027 owing to advancements in airport infrastructure and increased access to passports. Massive demand for travel to the best places to visit in India before you die has led to major Indian airline carriers to place lucrative orders for more than 1100 jets and planes over the last couple of months. For instance, in June 2023, Indigo placed the largest commercial aircraft order in history for more than 500 Airbus A320 aircraft carriers which are to be delivered by 2030 to 2035. This development came in addition to Air India's massive deal to acquire more than 450 planes from Airbus and Boeing in the same month. According to Booking Holdings' (NASDAQ:BKNG) report ' How India Travels 2023 ', Indians are becoming increasingly inclined to shift away from conventional hotel settings to accommodations like apartments, villas, homestays, and other unique alternatives, leading to enormous upsides for companies like Booking Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ:BKNG) and Airbnb Inc. (NASDAQ:ABNB).

Eco-tourism in India: An Overview

According to a report by KPMG, tailwinds from India's rampant tourism growth are expected to rub off on the country's growing services industry thereby facilitating long-term development. However, the report predicts that despite such an optimistic outlook, major companies operating within India's bustling tourism industry like Booking Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ:BKNG), Airbnb Inc. (NASDAQ:ABNB), and MakeMyTrip Ltd. (NASDAQ:MMYT) are under increasing pressure to adopt more climate-friendly alternatives owing to mounting concerns about climate change and the overall need for India to disassociate its impressive economic surge from greenhouse gas emissions. This is owing to the fact that despite having a relatively low per capita consumption rate when compared to some of the larger economies in the G20, India is projected to have one of the largest carbon footprints in the world in the next decade.

With an increase in travel and tourism in the country to some of the best places to visit in India before you die , India's per capita emissions are on the rise. As per the KPMG report, the industry is well-positioned to to generate revenues upwards of $59 billion by 2028. Moreover, India's sustainable tourism market was valued at more than $26.01 million in 2023 and is expected to reach $151.9 million by 2032 at a staggering CAGR of 19.3%. This meteoric rise sheds light upon the increasing pressure on the country's tourism industry to adopt responsible climate practices, with hotels and resorts resorting to solar, wind and geothermal energy sources in a bid to contain their carbon footprint. Eco-tourism is a critical segment of the global tourism industry and is expected to amount to more than $4.55 billion by 2027. For the fiscal year 2025, the government decided to allocate more than $29.3 million to develop sustainable tourism infrastructure, and promote adventure and religious tourism to some of the best places to visit in India before you die . According to India's G20 Sherpa and former CEO of NITI Aayog Amitabh Kant:

"We add a huge [carbon] footprint as we travel. India will attract 40-45 million tourists in the coming years and we should focus on enhancing the value per tourist rather than [the raw numbers]. By doing this we will be able to attract more companies and greater investment from around the world."

Our Methodology

In order to determine the 40 best places to visit in India before you die , we decided to undertake a consensus-based approach using a diverse variety of credible sources, including but not limited to travel blogs, news reports, and Reddit threads ( 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 , 5 , 6 , 7 , 8 , 9 , 10 ). We then shortlisted more than 70 places which appeared most frequently during our research. Since determining the quality of a travel destination is an incredibly multifaceted and complex phenomenon, we established a three-pronged criteria based on some of the most oft-cited priorities for tourists when picking a travel destination; the criteria is premised on each place's cultural or historical significance (25 points), natural or architectural beauty (20 points), and popularity amongst tourists (15 points). We then proceeded to award each place a cumulative score according to the aforementioned criteria and selected 40 places which scored the highest points. Subsequently, we ranked each entry based on the total points scored, from lowest to highest. Where there was a tie, we broke it based on the cultural significance and natural or architectural beauty of the place.

By the way, Insider Monkey is an investing website that tracks the movements of corporate insiders and hedge funds. By using a similar consensus approach we identify the best stock picks of more than 900 hedge funds investing in US stocks. The top 10 consensus stock picks of hedge funds outperformed the S&P 500 Index by more than 140 percentage points over the last 10 years ( see the details here ). Whether you are a beginner investor or a professional looking for the best stocks to buy you can benefit from the wisdom of hedge funds and corporate insiders.

You can read more on travel destinations in Asia in our article 20 Most Underrated Travel Destinations in Asia.

Best Places to Visit in India Before You Die

40. mathura, uttar pradesh.

The best time to visit Mathura is between November and March. Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi, Prem Mandir Vrindavan, and Government Museum are some of its most famous spots, making Mathura one of the  best places to visit in India before you die. 

39. Ziro, Arunachal Pradesh

Packed with rice fields and tall mountains, Ziro is one of the best places to visit in India . It is popular mainly for its festival, the Ziro festival.

38. Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram is home to various age-old temples and monuments including the Shore Temple and Alamparai Fort.

37. Shimla, Himachal Pradesh

One of the most popular holiday destinations in India , Shimla is packed with beautiful pine forests and valleys. Kufri, Mall Road, Chadwick Falls, and Jakhu Temple are some of its most-visited spots.

36. Alleppey, Kerala

Known as the "Venice of the East", Alleppey is the oldest planned city in Karnataka. It is famous primarily because of its beaches, lagoons, canals, and strong heritage.

35. Kolkata

Kolkata is most popularly known for its biggest festival, Durga Puja, which showcases the culture and traditions of Bengal, making it one of the best places to visit in India before you die .

34. Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh

Jabalpur offers various natural wonders and historical heritage to its visitors. Its picturesque location makes it one of the must-visit destinations in India.

33. Prashar Lake, Himachal Pradesh

One of the most popular trekking spots in Himachal Pradesh, Prashar Lake, is an extremely scenic lake in India. It is one of the best places to visit in India before you die. 

32. Mumbai 

Mumbai is one of the best places to visit in India, precisely because of its vibrant nightlife and energetic people. It is known as the city that never sleeps. When in Mumbai, you can check out some of the city's best eateries based on our article 10 Best Restaurants in Mumbai for Tourists .

31. Darjeeling, West Bengal

One of the most visited tourist destinations in India , Darjeeling is popularly known for its wide varieties of tea. The best time to visit Darjeeling is between September and December.

30. Orissa 

Orissa is home to various old Hindu temples and is a popular spot for religious travel. One of the most famous temples in the Konark Temple, which narrates the story of the origin of sexuality, and is one of the best places to visit in India before you die. 

29. New Delhi 

The capital of India, New Delhi, is a must-visit destination when visiting India. The city is filled with intricate medieval architecture and historical sites like the famous Qutub Minar and the Red Fort.

28. Lake Pichola, Udaipur

The oldest and one of the largest lakes in Udaipur, Lake Pichola is an extremely serene and beautiful lake. Many ghats, temples, and palaces surround the lake.

27. Wayanad, Kerala

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Kuruva Island, and Edakkal caves are some of the most popular spots to visit in Wayanad. Known as the "Nature's Abode", Wayanad is one of the best places to visit in India before you die .

One of the safest places to visit in India, Coorg is an extremely beautiful hill station. The best time to visit the destination is between October and May.

25. Auli, Uttarakhand

Home to mountains and dense forests, Auli is a must-visit destination in India. It also allows its visitors to engage in activities like skiing during winters.

24. Emerald Lake, Ooty

The best time to visit the Emerald Lake in Ooty is between October and May. The picturesque lake is located between the green hills.

23. Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra

Elphinstone Point, Venna Lake, Pratapgad Fort, and Mapro Garden are some of the most-visited spots in Mahabaleshwar. It is mainly famous for its strawberries.

22. Khajjiar, Himachal Pradesh

Known as "Mini Switzerland", Khajjiar is a hill station located in Himachal Pradesh. It is home to many lakes, forests, and snow-capped mountains.

21. Roopkund Lake

5,029 meters above sea level, the Roopkund Trek on the Himalayan ranges is one of the most adventurous activities India has to offer. During the trek, one can see many ranges, waterfalls, and glaciers.

20. Ajanta and Ellora Caves, Maharashtra

Ajanta and Ellora Caves are a blend of Buddhist, Jain, and Hindu monuments. There are 29 Ajanta caves and 34 Ellora Caves.

19. Bir, Himachal Pradesh

The paragliding capital of India, Bir, is one of the most popular tourist destinations. It consists of around 10 paragliding spots.

18. Jaisalmer, Rajasthan

Jaisalmer is home to many sand dunes. It offers various activities like dune bashing, camel safari, and desert camping to its visitors, and has lately emerged as a tourist favorite.

17. Dal Lake, Srinagar

Dal Lake in Srinagar is one of the most beautiful lakes in India. It is also known as the "Lake of Flowers'' or "Srinagar's Jewel".

16. Nohkalikai Falls, Cherrapunji

Located in Cherrapunji, Nohkalikai Falls is the tallest waterfall in India with a height of 340 meters. The destination receives rain almost throughout the year, and is one of the best places to visit in India before you die .

15. Manali, Himachal Pradesh

One of the most popular holiday destinations in India , Manali is located in the state of Himachal Pradesh. The best time to visit Manali is between October to February owing to the cold climate.

14. Lakshadweep

Lakshadweep consists of approximately 36 islands, out of which only few are populated. The islands are home to pristine beaches and offer various water activities to its visitors, making it one of the best places to visit in India before you die. 

13. Mysore, Karnataka 

Known as the City of Palaces, Mysore is famous for its royal heritage and history. It is the third most populated city in the state of Karnataka.

12. Agra, Uttar Pradesh

Home to one of most beautiful architectural marvels in the world in the Taj Mahal, Agra is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. Agra is a civilizational hub of India, and is home to a variety of intricate Mughal architecture.

11. Hampi, Karnataka 

A heritage site, Hampi  is known for its monastery and old architecture. Virupaksha Temple, Vijaya Vittala Temple, Matanga Hill, and Hazara Rama Temple are some of the most visited places in Hampi. Hampi is number 11 on our list of the  40 best places to visit in India before you die. 

Click here to continue reading and see 10 Best Places to Visit in India Before You Die . 

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Disclosure: None. 40 Best Places to Visit in India Before You Die  is originally published on Insider Monkey.

Best Road Trips in India That You Must Take

Best road trips in india, here is the list of 25 best road trips in india that you must take, 1. mumbai to pune expressway.

Distance: 94 Kms An easy weekend getaway from Pune/Mumbai, a road trip to Lonavala is something that almost all local residents will swear by. Dont forget to savor 'chikki' in Lonavala. The picturesque surroundings and lush green foliage are great at calming those jittery nerves. So if you are in the region and planning to take a road trip look no further. Put the medal on the pedal, and get cracking! Duration: 2 to 3 hours Road Trip Guide: The expressway is 94 Kms long and considered one of the best road trips in India. Two-wheelers are allowed on old Mumbai-Pune Highway (which is in really good shape) while cabs and buses ply on the Mumbai-Pune expressway. Sunny Da Dhaba and The Kinara Village Dhaba are good eating options on the Pune-Lonavala stretch.

2. Manali to Leh Highway

Distance: 479 Kms The beauty of the road trip in India from Manali to Leh cannot be captured in words. Remember Kareena Kapoor dancing to 'Yeh Ishq Hai' from Jab We Met? Wouldn't it be fun to cruise along that road in all its snowy glory on an open jeep or a Bullet? Ah! So Pretty! Duration: 2 days Road Trip Guide: It spans a length of 479 km with a mean altitude in between 3 to 4 km above sea level. The road is open for about 5 months a year mostly during summers and mid-October. The journey takes about 2 days with one stopover for rest and acclimatisation.

3. Visakhapatnam to Araku Valley

Distance: 116 Kms The graceful marriage of the Bay of Bengal and the Eastern Ghats in Visakhapatnam are a sight to behold. Any first time visitor to the city is taken away by the pristine beauty of this union in the city. When the same traveller takes a trip to Araku, he's completely mystified by the beauty of the road. The curly roads, the gentle elevation and the sweet serenity of the hills make it an amazing road trip in India and will etch a permanent place in your heart for an eternity. Duration: 3 hours Road Trip Guide: The road spans about 116 kms. There are interesting places like Borra caves and Tatipudi Reservoir on the way. The best time to visit the region is between October and March.

4. Shimla to Manali via Mandi

Distance: 250 Kms Clichés, when it comes to choosing a travel destination, should never be steered clear of! The Shimla-Manali road trip, with the River Beas trudging alongside, is a beautiful road trip to relax and unwind in India. Take a break from and play in the ice-cold water of the river. Nothing says Himachal vacation like playing in the water during the ride between Shimla and Manali! Duration: 5 to 6 hours Road Trip Guide: This 250 Kms stretch requires a little longer than usual due to hilly terrain. All the more reason to be one of the best road trips in India.

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Best India Tour Package - Shimla, Kullu and Manali

Kashmir tour package 9 days with gondola ride, leh ladakh summer holiday package with nubra & pangong stay, bestseller andaman and nicobar tour package, sikkim tour package for 7 days - excursion to tsomgo lake, shimla manali dharamshala dalhousie tour package - day trip to khajjiar, 5. chennai to pondicherry.

Distance: 151 Kms This is one of the most beautiful roads for travelling on a cruiser motorbike. Chetan Bhagat wrote about it, and rightfully so. The Sea on one side of the road is a sight to behold as the day grows. The changing reflections of the Sun on the water as the day advances makes it most beautiful road around Chennai and probably India will leave you feeling thoroughly satisfied. Be prepared for a lot of Photography sessions while on the road! Duration: 3 hours Road Trip Guide: This stretch of road is known as the East Coast road. This route passes through Mahabalipuram (UNESCO World Heritage Site), Kalpakkam (nuclear facility), Idaikkazhinadu (Alamparai Fort aka Alambara Fort), Mudaliarkuppam (with a cool boathouse and water sports facility), Marakkanam (famous for large salt pans) etc.

6. Guwahati to Tawang

Distance: 520 Kms Two absolute essentials from Northeast and a trip just like its two ends- challenging, yet spread across an extremely beautiful terrain. A few stops in between, and you should be able to pull it off more conveniently. Duration: 2 days Road Trip Guide: The distance requires a stopover or two.

7. Puri to Konark via NH 203

Distance: 36 Kms While scenic roads in Orissa would very well put most of the Eastern states of India to shame, the Puri-Konark highway is one of those beautiful roads to do Photography that when undertaken, will force you to drain the battery on your camera. The canopy formed by the trees on either side of the road, the soft misty breeze and the obvious idyllic beauty will leave you mesmerised, now and forever! Duration: Under 1 hour. Road Trip Guide: This short stretch can be covered in about an hour and makes for a memorable road trip.

8. Gangtok to Lake Tsomgo and Nathu La Pass

Distance: 56 Kms The North-East, largely unexplored is home to some of the best destinations for road trips in India. This is one of those road trips of North-East that you should undertake at once without thinking much. The hilly terrain might make it a challenging ride, but the beauty of the road lies in the uncertainty of the terrain. The awesome sight along the roads on mountain ranges will totally make up for everything else! Take a road trip in winters to Lake Tsomgo (also known as Changu Lake) from Gangtok and know happiness like never before! Duration: 2 hours Road Trip Guide:  With Lake Tsomgo falling on the route at around 39 Kms from Gangtok, you are bound to have an unmatched road trip experience.

9. Bangalore to Bandipur Forest

Distance: 220 Kms One cannot put forward a list of awesome road trips in India without accounting for one that is taken along a forest. The Bandipur Forest route to Bangalore is one of the most beautiful trips through forests in India, that you'll ever take. One can take the same road to Ooty from Mysore passing though Bandipur National Park. Have a road trip with friends in a car with a sunroof, singing all the way. You might spot deer nonchalantly crossing the road. There's no better manner of paying your respects to this charming highway! Duration: 4 hours to 5 hours Road Trip Guide: Running along the scenic Mysore Road, there are various places for stopovers and eating along the route including McDonalds and Cafe Coffee Day.

10. Shimla to Manali via Kinnaur and Spiti

Distance: 645 Kms A more recommended route to Shimla than the Mandi one, this is the road trip in India you should take instead if you are looking forward to the road trip being the highlight of your trip. Cover Kalpa, Sangla valley and even higher bits of the valley like Nako, Chango, Ropa if you wish. Duration : 4 to 5 days (stopovers included) Road trip Guide: The stretch is longish and you can cover it in 3-4 days time (unlike shown in Google Maps). You can stopover at Rampur as the first stop. Shimla to Rampur is around 130 km and the roads are decent till this point. Rampur to Nako is around 180km and it almost takes an entire day to cover this part. The road is very bad but equally scenic. Nako to Kaza is another 110 km and it is really beautiful as it is completely in Spiti region, but the roads are still bad. The stretch from Nako to Kaza could take more than half a day and you can stopover at Kaza. The last part of the trip is from Kaza to Manali via Kunzum La and Rohtang La and this stretch is better than the previous two parts, but still quite bad. This will also take an entire day easily.

11. Chennai to Munnar

Distance: 585 Kms If you've got a weekend and Chennai's weather just doesn't cut it, Munnar is your escape. Even better, is that it can come with a though longish but refreshing road trip that might just be what you need to kick start your stay at Munnar. Duration: 10 to 12 hours (not including stopovers) Road Trip Guide: There are three different routes which you can take from Chennai to Munnar. All three routes comprise of amazing attractions to make your road trip more memorable.

12. Delhi to Agra via Mathura on Yamuna Expressway

Distance: 233 Kms The Yamuna expressway is probably the best road in the country at present and an absolute must-do for all road trip enthusiasts in Delhi. If you have enough driving stamina, you can visit the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort and come back to Delhi by the end of the night. Duration: 4 hours Road Trip Guide: You can cover this stretch on the Yamuna Expressway in less than 2 hours as the road is just amazing. However, getting to Yamuna Expressway from Delhi itself is around 70km, so add another hour or two to the total journey. Take care of the air pressure in your tires. Too much heat while driving at a fast speed have caused tires of some vehicles to burst, so remember to maintain a lower than normal air pressure.

13. Jaipur to Jaisalmer

Distance: 558 Kms Known as the 'golden city' due to its bounteous golden dunes and castles clad in golden honey sandstone, Jaisalmer is adorned with lakes, ornate Jain temples and havelis. Climb on to the camel saddle and make your way through this desert or camp under the night sky in this golden land for an unforgettable experience. Duration : 9 to 10 hours Road Trip Guide: The roads are in top-notch condition and a pleasure to drive on! Go along the RJ SH 19 which is the best option as far as routes are concerned. Make a refueling stop at Jodhpur, both for your car and your tummy. Authentic Rajasthani cuisine can be found anywhere along this route in India.

14. Shillong to Cherrapunjee

Distance: 59 Kms For a 53 km stretch, this one has a lot to offer from drizzles, waterfalls, caves, villages and a beautiful view from your window. You will find stops for food along the way. Duration: 2 hours Road Trip Guide: The trip will take you about 1-2 hours without any traffic or stops. This is a popular stretch, often covered by car only.

15. Mumbai to Goa

Distance: 556 Kms This can probably be called the Father of Indian road trips. Drive towards the sun, the sea and the sand on a gorgeous road that will inspire and gear you up for the upcoming fun. Duration: 12 hours (without stopovers) Road Trip Guide: The road from Mumbai to Goa along the NH 17 is as smooth as creamed butter and utilizes about 10 hours of travel time. Leave Mumbai early in the morning and reach Goa before the parties begin! There are several food joints along the drive to keep your heart and stomach full.

16. Delhi to Jaipur

Distance: 281 Kms Watch the Aravallis bounce off as you drive along one of the most well-maintained highways for a road trip in India into one of the most colourful cultures of our land. Duration: 5 to 6 hours Road Trip Guide: The roads were in excellent condition until the last few years, but it has deteriorated in the recent past and the course is marked by many restaurants along the way. Take a pit stop at any one of them, refuel and move!

17. Mumbai to Mount Abu

Distance: 758 Kms Is the metropolitan life sucking the life force out of you? Do you want some peace and quiet, if even for a day? Perhaps, my dear Mumbaikars, its time to seek that solace in Mount Abu. Unwind! Duration: 12 hours Road Trip Guide: Take the NH 8 from Mumbai to Mount Abu via Vadodara and Ahmedabad. It stretches on for over 750 Kms. If you're in for a longer holiday, explore the two towns for their authentic culture and Gandhian history respectively. The road is kissed all over with plenty of dhabas, so eat away!

18. Kolkata to Digha

Distance: 183 Kms Any Kolkatan will swear by this road journey, claiming that they have taken it at least 4 times in their lifetime. Why? The road is basic and pleasing, great for revving up your vehicles, lined with green patches all throughout. Digha is a favourite weekend trip option for many East Indians for its short and sweet appeal. Walk along the beach or ride a pony in the shallow waters, two days here will take your mind off things and let you relax. Duration: 4 hours Road Trip Guide: This route in India is dotted with plenty of Dhabas, so eating along the route isn't a problem. The road stretches for over 180 kilometres and travel time is almost 3 hours. Enjoy the delightful drive, clicking snaps all the way!

19. Jaipur to Ranthambore

Distance: 155 Kms Take State Highway 24 to check off 3 essentials of your list Jaipur, Ranthambore and the beautiful stretch in between. There is also a certain Bassi Wildlife sanctuary in between you can make a stop at. Duration : 3 hours Road Trip Guide: The route taken is via NH52 and should take you about 3 hours of an afternoon well spent.

20. Bangalore to Ooty via Mysore

Distance: 273 Kms The road from Bangalore to Ooty, nestled in the lap of the Nilgiri hills, is one of those journeys every road fanatic should undertake once in his lifetime. The roads are the perfect combination of green leafy and asphalt, and the drive is a great idea to soothe your jittery nerves! Duration: 6 to 7 hours Road Trip Guide: The SH 17 is in great condition and dotted with plenty of eateries. For a sumptuous dining experience, try Kamath's near Channapatna. However, if you're one who doesn't like too many surprises for your belly, you can find a McDonald's and Cafe Coffee Day along the way. Stopover at Mysore and enjoy the history of the ancient city before gearing to sit in the lap of nature.

21. Delhi to Shimla

Distance: 342 Kms Somewhere in my heart, behind vertigo and nausea, there is a train of thought that feels that nothing beats the beauty of a road trip on the hills. The great expanse of the Himalayas and the soft cottony clouds blend in the most endearing route and the chilly winds in your hair make for the most sublime of experiences.  Duration: 7 hours Road Trip Guide: Take the Grand Trunk Road from Delhi and trudge along for a long weekend away from the cacophony of the city. The journey takes about 6 hours and 40 minutes. Eating on the drive is not a problem on this route. Give your stomach a treat at Sukhdev ka Dhaba at Murthal for their sumptuous paranthas!

22. Bangalore to Goa

Distance: 556 Kms Ask students and IT professionals in this part of India about their mantra of chilling in the weekend, and they will swear by the bike road trip between Bangalore and Goa. The road is alluring, calm and serene, with several Punjabi dhabas lining the course serving delicious food. Food for your stomach and for your soul, isn't it? Duration: 10 to 11 hours Road Trip Guide: The road stretches for 556 kilometres, and is in good condition. Many would say that a car is the better option to hit the road between Bangalore and Goa, but you can trust your preferences while deciding. Rent-a-cab facilities are available from Bangalore ranging from Rs. 9 to Rs. 48, in addition to toll taxes. Pack a pair of flip flops, dribble sunscreen all over and have fun!

23. Kolkata to Puri

Distance: 498 Kms The drive between Kolkata and Puri is full of surprises. The green drive and the pretty roads will leave you awed, while the idyllic beauty of both the journey and the destination will calm your soul. Duration: 10 hours Road Trip Guide: The best way is to go to Kharagpur and march along to Balasore from there, followed by Pipli, Cuttack and Bhadrak. The distance can be covered in about 10 hours of travel time. Hit the road before dawn from Kolkata and you'll reach in time for Puri's lovely beach-side sunset and succulent crab fries from local vendors!

24. Ahmedabad to Kutch

Distance: 400 Kms Go away for a short weekend holiday to Kutch and enjoy it thoroughly. Soak up the culture and the white beauty of the Rann, enjoying yourself completely. Duration: 10 to 11 hours Road Trip Guide: The stretch takes 11 hours to cover. Some parts of the road are a little untamed, so make sure you start very early in the day from Ahmedabad.

25. Pamban Bridge to Rameshwaram

Distance: 13 Kms Ever pictured driving on a road with vast expanses of water everywhere you look? Precisely why Pamban made it to our list! Sometimes, the infinite ocean under your feet and the moist breeze in your hair is all the therapy you need. It makes for a memorable road trip in India.  Duration: 15 to 20 minutes Road Trip Guide: This stretch can be easily covered in about 20 minutes.

India is a country of many facets, attitudes and varying definitions of beauty. The best idea is always to explore as much as you can, yourself. After all, nothing can beat the thrill of being on the road, right? Got more ideas for us to share? Let us know in comments and we'd be glad to hear :)

This post was published by Pallavi Siddhanta

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The best new hotels in India: 2024 Hot List

By Condé Nast Traveller

It’s inevitable: Every spring when we pull together the Hot List, our annual collection of the world’s best new hotels, a staffer remarks that this latest iteration has got to be the best one ever. But this year’s Hot List, our 28th edition, might really be the best one ever. This year's best new hotels in India include a beautiful safari camp, a Gangtok hotel with stunning Kanchenjunga views and a vibrant 10-bedroom garden retreat in the Himalayas. Here are the best new hotels in India.

Click here for the best new hotels in the world: Hot List 2024

JW Marriott Goa

Just off a busy corner packed with bars and beachwear shops in Goa’s Vagator is a little oasis of green and calm, perfectly suited for your next holiday. A spanking new 151-key property, done up with muted wooden panelling, intricate glassware chandeliers, water fountains and mother-of-pearl detailing, JW Marriott Goa quietly announces its location via its understated design. Located along a blue-green coastline and minutes away from Chapora Fort and Vagator beach, the hotel offers up idyllic backdrops for those family albums. The hotel offers a range of plush suite options and comfy rooms with attached balconies and all the latest mod cons, including free-standing tubs to soak in. Families can check into the adjoining suites, which allow guests to swim across via the private plunge pool that connects the rooms from the outside. Treat yourself to holistic treatments at Spa by JW, which features Turkish and Moroccan hammams. If you’re interested in therapy of the culinary kind, you can head to JW Kitchen, the all-day restaurant that serves a range of global cuisine and dishes from across the length and breadth of the country. Think Rajasthani thalis ; buzith chaman, a Kashmiri cottage cheese delicacy; Amritsari chole; and, of course, xacuti, caldeen, and cafreal. At Água Bar and Café—perched atop the hotel overlooking the infinity pool—enjoy signature cocktails and tuck into the ‘all things avocado’ section of the menu, dedicated to a range of toasts and sandwiches that star Insta-friendly food. The wide selection of nibbles, finger foods and heartier mains are ideal to take you from sunrise to sunset by the pool.For those looking to bring in a big birthday or host a celebration, pick from the 4,607-square-feet Grande Salão, an elegant ballroom with an outdoor section or the terrace of the hotel from where you can look out onto the shimmering sea. Doubles from Rs 19,950*; website —Smitha Menon

Taj Guras Kutir Resort & Spa, Gangtok

The one thing you should wish for before you visit Taj Guras Kutir Resort & Spa, Gangtok is clear skies—all-important for the hotel’s USP: views of Kanchenjunga, the world’s third-highest mountain, from every room. The property is set on the hill slopes of Pangthang forest, about 20 minutes from Gangtok, on land leased from Sikkim’s former prince, filled with Guras or rhododendron, the state plant. It is also all over the menu—from a colourful salad to the Guras Avenue cocktail with gin, pears, and the flower. The 69 rooms all have mountain views and the presidential suite comes with a pantry and butler. Only 2.8 acres of the 15 acres have been built upon and the rest is nature, with a waterfall where you can dip your feet. Here, I don’t need to go to a viewpoint. My king-sized bed itself is one. You can run on the treadmill at the gym, sit in the jacuzzi , get a couples massage at the spa, all with Kanchenjunga for company. But it does its best to offer more than the mountain. The front doors open onto a walkway lit by giant flaming cauldrons at night. The food has a local touch at Machan, with dishes like bhuteko bhaat, thukpa, and tingmo. This part of the world loves its noodles and momos, so Taj has brought its Asian specialty restaurant Soi & Sake. The curated décor—from the books in the lobby to the artwork over my bed—gives the hotel a curious intimacy. And of course, everything just feels better with a Kanchenjunga view. Doubles from about Rs 29,000*; website —Sandip Roy

The Leela Ashtamudi, A Raviz Hotel

Along a southern braid of the off-radar Ashtamudi Lake, two hours from Thiruvananthapuram airport, lies a gloriously secluded 93-key tropical getaway— The Leela Ashtamudi, A Raviz Hotel . In taking over the management of the long-standing Raviz property, The Leela makes its second foray into Kerala. Set within five lush acres of coconut palms, bamboo, and mango trees, it spreads across the Heritage and Tower wings, private pool villas, and two traditional, 200-year-old tharavadu cottages—wooden ancestral homes transported as is from Erattupetta and Anchal. The rooms offer lake views and cosy nooks to watch life play out—even the breezy lobby opens right onto the lake. An ode to Kerala in every aspect, the property’s sloping tiled roofs, grand pillars, and waterfront verandah are inspired by the Nalukettu style of architecture. Evenings bring with them a plethora of options: opt for a Mohiniyattam or Kuchipudi performance on the property or cruise through the lake on a houseboat under a sky painted golden by the setting sun. All-day restaurant Keraleeyam offers global and Indian staples, but the local cuisine is the highlight: coconut-loaded beef roast, a tangy raw mango prawn curry, and a snooze-inducing sadya, prepared for special occasions and served on a banana leaf. It’s impossible to think of dinner after a sadya, but you must, because the dinner-only restaurant Raanthal showcases the lake’s fresh catch. And the star of the show is the Fish Nirvana—a vibrant yellow coconut-infused kingfish curry cooked and served in a banana leaf alongside hot appams. Traditional Ayurvedic therapies are on offer at the Favourite Kerala Ayurveda and Spa, where treatment rooms offer magnificent views of the lake. If the expert massage doesn’t lull you into a stupor, watching the ripples on the water’s surface most definitely will. Doubles from about Rs 8,300*; website —Malavika Bhattacharya

Sitara Himalaya, Himachal Pradesh

Ever the creative, Anita Lal, iconic lifestyle brand Good Earth’s founder, has channelled her alchemist’s heart into a 10-bedroom garden retreat immersed in the spiritual magnitude of the Himalayas. Located at an altitude of 8,200 feet, 13 kilometres from Manali, on the way to Lahaul and Spiti, Sitara Himalaya is a celebration of Indian spirit with a global outlook. The splendour of the interiors is immediate—Tibetan rugs, ornamental blue and white china, bold brass work, hand-painted murals of mountain passes and hummingbirds, the earthy smell of juniper berry incense. Bedrooms are covered in hand-spun Banarasi silk wallpaper depicting a sacred Buddhist motif of a Himalayan cloud. Opening the curtains to a view of snow-capped peaks is an immediate uplift. Don’t expect room service menus, mini-bars, or TVs. There, however, is a dedicated library space, painted in teal and sky blue with red accents in homage to Buddhist monasteries. Food follows a journey through the Himalayan ranges: tandoori delicacies from the Khyber, decadent wazwan from Jammu & Kashmir, Anglo-Indian dishes from the colonial hill stations, the dham from Himachal and steamed momos from Ladakh. Sitara Himalaya can mould itself to guests’ needs—a solitary trek, a picnic, or dining followed by in-house sutradhar, Navarino Narah, playing his guitar. For a well-being retreat, head to the Svasthi area, set at the highest point of the property. The hot water plunge pool is scented with Himalayan Deodar; the infrared sauna, with walls made of bricks of Himalayan salts, relaxes the central nervous system. Therapies include a breathwork, sound bowl healing, reiki, and human touch centred on ancient marma massage. Sitara Himalaya offers a dance of colour, textiles, and texture, but it is also a catalyst for revelations and good conversations. My advice? Don’t hold back. Doubles from Rs 90,000* for a minimum three-night stay; website —Daisy Finer

InterContinental Jaipur Tonk Road

The sprawling façade of the property sumptuously reveals itself at the end of a 20 minute-drive from the Jaipur airport through the industrial suburb of Sitapura. Despite being an hour away from the city centre, the snazzy 218-key hotel encapsulates the essence of the Pink City—from the bougainvillea-fringed periphery and the magenta stole draped around me upon arrival to the rose-hued chocolate shaped like Hawa Mahal in my modish one-bedroom suite. Even the thikri mirrorwork adorning the wall behind my bed echoes Amber Fort’s grandeur and reminds me exactly where I am. This also extends to its kitchens: Socorro, its global cuisine restaurant, whips up a mean Rajasthani thali, complete with a hearty masala baati-panchmel dal duo; zingy laal maas with the most tender mutton, brought in from Jaisalmer for its intense flavour; a curd-based creamy murgh Jodhpuri ; syrupy malpuas; and more. While The Royal Root spotlights regal Awadhi and Rajasthani flavours with a side of live classical music, House of Han hits the right Oriental note. Curated trips offer a crash course into regional craft like block printing and the city’s dying art of blue pottery in a local factory—the genial owner even promises to deliver the coasters I paint straight to my home once ready. Recently rebranded from Crowne Plaza, the first InterContinental in north India boasts enhanced interiors, replete with gold accents, and services. The small breakfast bag packed for an early-morning flight stuffed with freshly baked croissants, muffins, and fruits show that the little things matter. InterContinental Jaipur Tonk Road strikes a balance between Rajasthani hospitality and world-class excellence. Doubles from about Rs 14,200*; website —Sneha Kanchan

Brij Anayra, Dharamshala

Before the Brij scooped up this 161-year-old tea estate in lower Dharamshala , it used to be White Haven, one-time resting place of weary English earls and viceroys. The 10-acre space retains all of its Raj regalia. Twelve massive rooms, carved into three blocks of a green-tiled colonial cottage complex, running along a fully functioning tea garden. Interiors drip with dark timber, dim lamps, and dainty furnishings. The Viceroy Block is the poshest with grand four-posters, dining alcoves, antique secretaires, armoury displays, and vintage watercolours, several of them painted by the lords and ladies. What elevates this discreet elegance are the down-home touches. Thukpas and momos arrive on demand, or a Himachali dham spread of khatte channe and a madra of your choice, is as easily delivered. Outdoorsy types can roam the extensive grounds, flitting from hibiscus to peaches to junipers, or head uphill for day-long jaunts to McLeodganj or Dharamkot, nearly 30-40 minutes by road. But why go anywhere when the daybed’s billowing drapes pull back on the Dhauladhar’s white-tipped majesty all along? Doubles from about Rs 15,000*; website —Lakshmi Sankaran

TUTC Sawai Shivir, Ranthambore

Our days at the safari camp start with birdcall and end with us perking our ears to distant howling of jackals marking their dominion around us. The 16-acre campsite of The Ultimate Travelling Camp (TUTC) Sawai Shivir , the decade-old glamping brand’s newest property, is set among farmlands. An asymmetrical pool overlooks a crater that sounds like an ambitious plan: an on-site waterhole with its own ecosystem. The camp’s furnishings and artworks are sourced from TUTC’s locations like Thiksey, Kohima, and Bandhavgarh. The lounge tent’s roof is embroidered by a family in Leh and wooden stools are made in Nagaland from fallen trees. In the nine suite tents and one presidential suite tent, well-appointed bedrooms have air conditioners for the hot days and heaters for the cool nights. Behind each bedroom is a wooden-floored bathroom and a dressing room. Meals are discussed with guests but there is room for spontaneity, as they whip up local delicacies like ash-cooked baati and dal with churma and jungli murgh straight from a pot on a sigdi by the campfire. One of the days, after a safari , therapist Archana insisted we get a massage. As she moved her fingers through my hair, and across my scalp, she said I must let the oil seep in for at least half an hour. This glamping life, it asks a lot of you. Suite tents from Rs 80,000*; website —Roshni Bajaj Sanghvi

Mementos by ITC Hotels, Ekaaya Udaipur

Breakfast by the lake, yoga under the stars, bird watching, nature hikes, outdoor movie screenings—no demand is too high at Mementos by ITC Hotels . The hotel, which is the first under ITC’s Mementos brand, promises mental souvenirs you’ll be tapping into days after your vacation. The hotel is situated 50 minutes from central Udaipur, but therein lies its charm. It’s a perfect alternative for travellers looking to spend time in the countryside, away from the thick of the throng yet within easy access of the historic centre. The 117 villas and suites start from 500 square feet and, depending on the category, come with either terraces, gardens, private plunge pools, or all of the above. All rooms offer a view—some overlook the valley, while others the lake. They are sumptuously decorated with golden accents simmered by a muted colour palette. Some bathrooms come with Victorian-style bathtubs that sit under sunroofs or the warm glow of a chandelier. For meals, there’s the ITC signature Royal Vega, where your silver thali gleams with recipes from the kitchens of maharajas of the past. At Kebabs & Kurries, feast on perennial favourites such as galouti kebabs, dal Bukhara, and nihari. But before you settle down in one of these restaurants, note that sunset drinks are de rigueur by the infinity pool at the Rock Bar. Doubles from Rs 31,254*; website —Shradha Shahani

Jahnavi Bhatt

Condé Nast Traveller

Aishwarya Venkatraman

Moxy Bengaluru Airport Prestige Tech Cloud

Home to the country’s best-known start-ups and a whopping 11 of India’s Top 50 Restaurants , Bengaluru carries with it a happy, easy-going spirit. It’s no surprise then that the city became the first home in India of Marriott’s Moxy Hotels, a brand that pegs itself on cool. Located about 15 minutes from the airport, the no-frills Moxy Bengaluru Airport Prestige Tech Cloud promises its guests a unique experience. Instead of a hotel lobby and a front desk, you are greeted by an open-plan floor where the bar, game room, lounge, restaurant, and co-working space blend into each other. The Moxy Bar, which also doubles up as a front desk, makes it convenient to offer you a welcome cocktail at check-in. If the lobby floor looks like Social and WeWork hooked up had a baby, the rooms are reminiscent of an IKEA catalogue. You wouldn’t be off the mark since Moxy was launched in partnership with the Swedish furniture brand. You are also nudged to do some things by yourself. This doesn’t mean you’ll be doing your own bed but you will most likely have to call in for that ironing board because not all rooms have one. Keeping with the young vibe, the minimalist rooms are stripped of wardrobes, writing desks, and cable TV. Wooden clothes pegs replace the wardrobe, a foldable wooden coffee table replaces the desk, and there’s a Smart TV to mirror your personal device screen. The workaholics can choose to work from anywhere, including at the island bar while sipping cocktails. The food menu includes the regular staples but also adapts to the local palate. Naans are reimagined as flat breads, topped with locally sourced burrata, or fresh mushrooms. The signature baos, topped with Andhra spices, too, are a nod to the local favourite. Among the other offerings at Moxy Bengaluru are conference rooms with bean bags and ping pong tables upon request. It is easy to label Moxy Bengaluru as a hotel for millennials and Gen Z. But you are constantly reminded that it is for ‘young at heart’. Doubles from Rs11,270*; website —Abhishek Mande Bhot

Ronil Goa—a JdV by Hyatt Hotel

Ronil Goa, a JdV by Hyatt property, is a new boutique resort in Calangute that is an unlikely bridge between the old laid-back Goa and the new buzzing one. Once a 125-room, budget-friendly hotel, the property, which goes back over 35 years, is now a 135-room JdV (short for joie de vivre) by Hyatt resort this year—the first such Hyatt property in India and Southwest Asia. Its entry on the Calangute-Baga Road is easy to miss, but once inside, the resort unfolds into two separate blocks, divided by two pools and the in-house restaurant. In true Goa fashion, I’m welcomed with a coffee -rum shot, an apt teaser of the resort’s energy. Check-in is not at the reception, but at the lobby bar Patrão’s, which is open 24/7. The heart of this property is “the hub”, the central area featuring a pool with a swim-up bar, cabanas, and sunken beds, and a wood-fired oven, where music plays almost all day and night. Rooms in this block are for those craving a high-energy holiday. The pool is open till 2am for spontaneous midnight swims. If you prefer a quieter holiday, book a room in the second block with the property’s second “tranquil” pool, which is open until 10pm and meant for a relaxed dip. Rooms feature several smart design elements—a sliding mirror which acts as a minimal door to the wardrobe, walls with monotone textures in place of the standard abstract paintings found in hotel rooms, door handles shaped like seashells, and more. Night owls can crack open the complimentary Maka Di lager in the minibar. I could easily get used to the prawn curry, rice, kismoor, and eggplant pickle at the Ronil Bistro for lunch, and the fresh, fluffy sourdough pizzas by the pool for dinner. Don't skip the ice cream, which comes from Goa’s well-loved Cream Choc. Ronil Goa is ideal for travelling with friends as the property can arrange bonfires, barbecues, floating breakfasts, and poolside picnics. As new as the property is, it unknowingly holds within it a sense of nostalgia. While the staff can arrange for bar crawls and Chapora Fort visits, if you are visiting to recreate old memories, you could just stay within the nostalgic cocoon that Ronil Goa offers. Doubles from Rs16,200*; website —Arundhati Ail

In a shiny post-pandemic Goa, Ashvem feels like a throwback to a slower and sleepier time. KAIĀ Goa , a new oceanfront boutique resort, across the tiny, white-washed Holy Cross Chapel, is right at the edge of Ashvem Beach. KAIĀ’s intuitive design immediately channels tropical sunshine and beach vibes with a profusion of cane, rattan, jute, and other natural fabrics. On-site coconut palms and trees were incorporated into an organic design with minimal use of intrusive construction material. The resort extends across two floors with rooms built around sprawling common areas. With high roofs and floor-to-ceiling windows, these rooms open up to sweeping views of the sea and mangroves. Minimalist design crafted from locally sourced bamboo, stone, and wood, along with jute curtains and statement light fixtures make you want to lounge about in your PJs. KAIĀ also has a four-bedroom stand-alone villa right across the road for larger groups. In the light-filled space at the edge of quiet backwaters with a sliver of beach , the large glass windows serve as a frame for the spectacular sunrises and sunsets. The food is designed by chef Mohit Savargaonkar and his philosophy translates into a menu that traverses the world and back again with dishes that are high on taste and good for the gut. There are all-day breakfast offerings like the spectacular Turkish Eggs—poached eggs on a base of hung curd and chilli oil to be scooped up with freshly made poiee—and pesarattu with moringa sambhar. For the mains, pick from hearty Mexican, Mediterranean, Indonesian , classic European fare, or indulge in flavours of Malabar cooking with Kerala Kozhi Curry and an Alleppey Prawn Curry. KAIĀ’s bar programme presents craft infusions as well as a fresh tropical spin—like the Man … Gone Going with a raw mango tequila, spiced ripe mango and mango leaf liqueur, and a spiced rim with a mango leaf garnish—that makes the drinks fun and breezy. The island bar is a design win with an extended bamboo spiral roof open to the skies and seating around the counter that encourages conversations. In case you need more, there are a bunch of curated activities like village walks to art sessions, book readings, and more. KAIĀ celebrates the slow life and the lack of an agenda, a way of life that is becoming increasingly rare in Goa. Doubles from Rs 8,000*; website —Diya Kohli

*Prices are subject to change.

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Announcing the Hot List Winners of 2024

By CNT Editors

It’s inevitable: Every spring when we pull together the Hot List , our annual collection of the world’s best new hotels, restaurants , and cruise ships , a staffer remarks that this latest iteration has got to be the best one ever. After a year’s worth of traveling the globe—to stay the night at a converted farmhouse in the middle of an olive grove outside Marrakech, or sail aboard a beloved cruise line’s inaugural Antarctic voyage—it’s easy to see why we get attached. But this year’s Hot List, our 28th edition, might really be the best one ever. It’s certainly our most diverse, featuring not only a hotel suite that was once Winston Churchill’s office, but also the world’s largest cruise ship and restaurants from Cape Town to Bali. We were surprised and inspired by this year’s honorees, and we know you will be too. These are the Hot List hotel winners for 2024.

Click here to see the entire Hot List for 2024 .

All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

North Island Okavango

Angama Amboseli

Jannah Lamu

Farasha Farmhouse , Marrakech

Kozo Kigali

Waldorf Astoria Seychelles Platte Island — Seychelles

SOUTH AFRICA

Nikkei Cape Town

Molori Mashuma , Mana Pools National Park

Pemako Punakha

Regent Hong Kong

Mementos by ITC Hotels, Ekaaya Udaipur

Naar , Darwa

Papa's , Mumbai

Cap Karoso , Sumba

Further , Bali

Locavore NXT Bali

Le Pristine Tokyo

The Tokyo EDITION, Ginza

Trunk(Hotel) Yoyogi Park , Tokyo

Shinta Mani Mustang - A Bensley Collection , Jomsom

SOUTH KOREA

JW Marriott Jeju Resort & Spa

Pot Au Phở , Ho Chi Minh

Le Foote , Sydney

Southern Ocean Lodge , Kangaroo Island

Sun Ranch , Byron Bay

MIDDLE EAST

Raffles Al Areen Palace Bahrain

SAUDI ARABIA

Six Senses Southern Dunes , Umluj

The St. Regis Riyadh

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

The Guild , Dubai

SIRO One Za'abeel, Dubai

Soul Kitchen , Dubai

The Lana, Dorchester Collection , Dubai

Koan , Copenhagen

Hotel Maria , Helsinki

1 Place Vendôme , Paris

The Carlton Cannes, a Regent Hotel , Cannes

Datil , Paris

Hôtel Le Grand Mazarin , Paris

La Nauve Hôtel & Jardin , Cognac

Rosewood Munich

Mandarin Oriental, Costa Navarino

Monument , Athens

One&Only Aesthesis , Athens

Highland Base Kerlingarfjöll

Bulgari Hotel Roma , Rome

Trattoria del Ciumbia , Milan

Hotel La Palma , Capri

La Roqqa , Porto Ercole

Nolinski Venezia , Venice

Palazzo Roma , Rome

Saporium , Florence

Hotel Violino d’Oro , Venice

Mamula Island

NETHERLANDS

De Durgerdam , Amsterdam

Canalha , Lisbon

Andreu Genestra , Mallorca

Barro , Ávila

César Lanzarote , Lanzarote

Hotel Corazón , Mallorca

Grand Hotel Son Net , Mallorca

Palacio Arriluce , Getxo

Son Vell Menorca , Menorca

The Peninsula Istanbul

UNITED KINGDOM

Broadwick Soho , London

Chishuru , London

The Devonshire , London

Chelsea Townhouse, London

Estelle Manor , Cotswolds

Fish Shop , Ballater

Raffles London at The OWO

Colima 71 , Mexico City

Maizajo Mexico City

Maroma, A Belmond Hotel , Riviera Maya

Riviera Maya EDITION

The St. Regis Kanai Resort , Riviera Maya

SOUTH AMERICA

Casa Lucía , Buenos Aires

Trescha , Buenos Aires

Oseille , Rio de Janiero

99 Restaurante, Santiago

Our Habitas Atacama , San Pedro de Atacama

Puqio , Arequipa

THE CARIBBEAN

Silversands Beach House

UNITED STATES

The Celestine , New Orleans

Dawn Ranch , Sonoma, California

The Fifth Avenue Hotel , New York

Fontainebleau Las Vegas

The Georgian , Santa Monica, California

The Global Ambassador , Phoenix

Hotel Bardo, Savannah

Ilis , New York

Kiln , San Francisco

Kona Village, a Rosewood Resort , Kona, Hawaii

Maty's , Miami

Warren Street Hotel , New York

Yess , Los Angeles

World Voyager, Atlas Ocean Voyages

CRUISE SHIPS

Silver Nova , Silversea

Norwegian Viva

Seven Seas Grandeur , Regent Seven Seas Grandeur

Oceania Vista

World Voyager , Atlas Ocean Voyages

Scenic Eclipse II

Emerald Sakara

Celebrity Ascent

Seabourn Pursuit

Icon of the Seas , Royal Caribbean

MSC Euribia

Viking Aton

Resilient Lady , Virgin Voyages

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5 best festivals in India to visit during May for a unique experience

India offers a wide range of festivals during May that cater to every taste and interest. From traditional cultural celebrations to modern music festivals, there is something for everyone.

International Flower Festival

Place: Governor’s residence, Gangtok (Sikkim)

Date: May 1 to 31, 2024

This festival combines a variety of entertaining events, the beauty of flowers, and some respectable plantation expertise. During the show, a wide variety of orchids, gladioli, cacti, roses, trees, ferns, alpine plants, creepers, and climber species are on display. There are also a variety of regional delicacies to tempt your palate. There is river rafting for those who enjoy adventure. The Yak Safari is perhaps another fascinating aspect of Sikkim's Flower Festival. In addition, there are talks and workshops about local plants.

Ooty Summer Festival

Place: Ooty, Tamil Nadu

Date: May 20 to 24, 2024

This event, which takes place outdoors in the Nilgiris, is similar to but distinct from other summer celebrations. This festival offers more leisure time and breathtaking scenery than any other. There is a flower show where exquisite floral arrangements, vegetable carvings, flower rangoli, etc. are displayed. Aside from this, the festivities also include a boat race and boat pageantry, as well as a fruit, vegetable, dog, spice, and rose exhibition.

Please double-check the festival dates if you intend to attend, as they are subject to change.

Moatsu Festival

Place: Mokokchung district villages (Chuchuyimlang village), Nagaland

Date: May 1 to 3, 2024

In the small yet stunning state of Nagaland, the Moatsu festival is one of the most anticipated events. The Ao tribe of the state celebrates Moatsu Mong festival, which lights up the entire state with its colourful celebrations. The primary purpose of the event is to ask God for a favour. There is a lot of rice beer made. Cows, pigs, and poultry are fed to gain weight in preparation for the joyous feast. Songs of eulogies are performed in honour of the traditional heroes. After that, a wise person predicts the god and the unfavourable days the village would face.

The event is great, and despite its name suggesting that it is only enjoyed by locals, it isn't. People travel from all across the nation to see the unique festival.

Summer Festival

Place: Mount Abu 

Date: May 2024 (dates yet to be announced)

The celebration honours the friendliness and joy of the hill station residents and is held annually on Buddha Purnima in May. This spectacular was co-organized by Rajasthan Tourism, the Municipal Board of Mt. Abu, and the District Administration. The celebration begins with a ceremonial procession, which is followed by Gujarati and Rajasthani folk acts. The second and third days are the most fascinating since they awaken every visitor's sense of adventure. The festival is highly successful thanks to the tug of war, panihari matka, boat, horse, and skating races as well as the CRPF band show, skaters' display, and Deepdan.

Buddha Purnima:

Place: Bodh Gaya

Date: May 23, 2024

Buddha Purnima is a significant festival celebrated by Buddhists worldwide to commemorate the birth, enlightenment, and death of Lord Buddha. However, no place celebrates this festival as grandly as Bodh Gaya in Bihar, India, the place where Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree. On this day, thousands of Buddhist pilgrims worldwide come to Bodh Gaya to offer prayers and seek blessings from the holy site. The Mahabodhi temple is beautifully decorated with colourful lights and flowers, and a peaceful atmosphere prevails in the town. The festival also includes rituals like meditation and chanting of Buddhist hymns. If you want to experience the spiritual side of India and immerse yourself in Buddhist culture, visiting Bodh Gaya during Buddha Purnima is a must.

So, pack your bags and get ready to experience the vibrant and diverse culture of India at these 5 best festivals during May for a truly unique and memorable experience.

ALSO READ: Spike in spiritual tourism, Ayodhya and Ujjain top Indian travelling destinations

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How Indians Are Traveling Now: Takeaways From MakeMyTrip’s First Trend Report

Bulbul Dhawan , Skift

April 22nd, 2024 at 10:09 AM EDT

MakeMyTrip shares insights into changing preferences of Indian travelers as the Indian tourism industry is poised for significant growth in 2024.

Bulbul Dhawan

Indian travelers have an increased interest in weekend getaways and spiritual tourism, according to online travel agency MakeMyTrip’s first-ever travel trends report . Searches for destinations with or around religious spots increased by 97% in the last two years, the platform stated in the report, which was released on Monday.

Spiritual tourism is also leading the growth of tourism in tier-2 and tier-3 cities. MakeMyTrip recorded a 585% increase in searches for Ayodhya in 2023. Gains were 343% for Badrinath, and 359% for Ujjain. 

In the domestic hotels category, weekend getaways have seen the highest growth. Popular travel destination Jim Corbett has seen an year-on-year increase of 131% in terms of search volumes, followed by Ooty and Munnar. “A large number of travelers are driving to these destinations from nearby metros,” MakeMyTrip stated in the report. 

Skift’s earlier report had mentioned how the Indian tourism industry is poised for significant growth, with estimates projecting a revenue of $24 billion in 2024 .

Increased Discretionary Spend on Travel

The number of travelers taking more than three trips a year in 2023 has grown by 25% as compared to 2019. Indians are also spending more discretionary income on travel, MakeMyTrip said. There has also been an increased interest in domestic travel and travel to unexplored destinations in the country, especially because of the country’s improved infrastructure. 

Staycations and experience travel increased in 2023. Family travel bookings witnessed a 64% year-on-year increase, while solo travel bookings increased by 23%. Two people traveling together accounted for 50% of all bookings, MakeMyTrip shared. It also recorded December and May as the most preferred months for travel. 

Spontaneous Domestic Trips, But Planned International Travels

According to the report, Indians are spontaneous travelers when it comes to domestic bookings. As much as 46% of domestic flight bookings were done in less than a week before the date of travel, it stated. 

International bookings, however, witnessed a longer planning period, with 51% of the international flight bookings having been done at least 15 days before departure. One-third of all international bookings were made more than a month in advance. 

MakeMyTrip observed the same pattern in hotel bookings. More than 50% of the domestic hotel bookings for leisure were made less than a week before travel. One-third of international hotel bookings were made at least 30 days in advance. 

Preferences of Indian Travelers

As much as 30% of all international travel searches from India were for Dubai, Bangkok, and Singapore. “London, Toronto, and New York were the most searched long-haul destinations,” MakeMyTrip stated in the report. There has also been an interest in international travel during long weekends, as the platform recorded a surge in searches for Bali, Bangkok, Phuket, and Singapore. 

When it comes to domestic travel, two-thirds of the travelers prefer to pre-select their flight seats. During international travel, this figure drops to 40%, the platform shared. Additionally, indigenously developed unified payments interface (UPI) is the most preferred mode of payment for Indian travelers and accounts for 36% of all transactions. 

India is also witnessing an increase in the popularity of travel gift cards. Half of the travel gift cards are gifted on the occasion of weddings, while the other 50% are gifted on occasions such as birthdays and festivals.

Hotels continue to be the most popular type of accommodation, with searches for hotels increasing by 39% year-on-year in 2023. Couples and family travelers formed the majority of the guests booking for hotels. 

Alternate accommodations witnessed a 24% increase in searches. Friends and larger groups preferred to book homestays, apartments, and villas, while more solo travelers favored hostels. 

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Tags: flight bookings , flight search , hotels , india , india outbound , india travel , international travel , makemytrip , middle class , online travel agencies , online travel companies , religious travel , skift india report , tourism , travel spending , Travel Trends

Photo credit: Weekend getaways have seen the highest growth in the domestic hotels category. Uriel Mont / Pexels

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Aditya Kalra is the Company News Editor for Reuters in India, overseeing business coverage and reporting stories on some of the world's biggest companies. He joined Reuters in 2008 and has in recent years written stories on challenges and strategies of a wide array of companies -- from Amazon, Google and Walmart to Xiaomi, Starbucks and Reliance. He also extensively works on deeply-reported and investigative business stories.

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India's best train trips are a journey to the soul of the subcontinent

Mar 11, 2022 • 8 min read

Traveling by train in India is an intense, exhilarating experience © Tuul & Bruno Morandi / Getty Images

No trip to India would be complete without a ride on one of the country's 13,000 daily passenger trains. India's railways are the lifeblood of the nation – the veins and arteries that keep the country’s heart beating, snaking into nooks and crannies that no plane could ever reach, and keeping 1.38 billion people connected with friends and family.

From 10-minute commuter hops to epic four-day journeys across the subcontinent, there’s a train ride to suit every travel need and every budget. Penny-priced local trains transport millions across big cities such as Delhi , Kolkata and Mumbai , while lavish luxury locos offer the chance to roll around the country in style.

With the windows down and doors flung open, India's trains offer a peek into the everyday workings of Indian life, crawling through dusty villages, winding up the lush slopes of forest-clad mountains and skimming beautiful coasts, bringing visitors within touching distance of drying laundry and coconut groves.

Onboard, you’ll find a microcosm of Indian society spread across eight different classes, from politicians and businessmen living it up in air-conditioned compartments to laborers sitting cross-legged on simple wooden benches. Affordable and relatively easy to book online, trains are also the most atmospheric way to explore India . Traveling by train is also a smart way to save money on hotels, with comfortable sleeper services connecting major cities nightly and meals often included in the ticket price.

Whether you're a committed rail enthusiast, or just dipping in a toe for the experience, here are the best train journeys in India.

The Deccan Odyssey 

Best luxury journey.

Start – New Delhi; End – Mumbai; Distance – 1524km (947 miles); Duration – 7 nights 8 days

Standing out amongst the thousands of passenger trains that traverse the country every day, India's luxury trains roll languorously between major cities, their polished engines and gleaming livery glinting in the sun. For those who can afford it, it's the only way to travel.

Rail aficionados sing the praises of the extravagant Maharajas’ Express , which comes with personal butlers, bejeweled dinner plates and onboard bathtubs, but a more affordable option is the Deccan Odyssey . This luxe service runs from the Indian capital to Ranthambore National Park , the Taj Mahal in Agra and Jaipur and Udaipur , continuing to Vadodara and the World Heritage Sites of Ellora and Ajanta before arriving in Mumbai eight days later.

Less a train ride, more a cruise on wheels, this elegant train rumbles through the night, with passengers waking in a brand new city every day, to be met by coaches offering local tours. However, it’s perfectly acceptable to sit out the organized excursions and explore by yourself on foot or by taxi, or just pull out a paperback and enjoy the peace and quiet on board.

Mandovi Express

Best all-round rail experience.

Start – Mumbai CST; End – Madgaon Junction; Distance – 581km (361 miles); Duration – 11hrs 50mins

With the Sahyadri Hills rising on the left and the Arabian Sea sparkling on the right, the Konkan Railway is a textbook example of Indian railway engineering excellence. Flash floods, landslides and collapsed tunnels all failed to hinder the construction of this trunk line from Mumbai's famous Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj station (CST) to the beaches of Goa .

While numerous trains weave along this coastal route, the Mandovi Express stands out as a national treasure thanks to its scenic views and the legions of hawkers who wander the aisles vending freshly fried pakoras (vegetable fritters), hot samosas (fried savory pastries) and biryani in clay pots.

Eschew the air-conditioned carriages with tinted windows that obscure the views, and opt for a seat in third or general class, where a warm salty breeze wafts through the bars of open windows. With no glass between you and the scenery, you’ll get the best out of the experience, as the train navigates more than 2000 bridges and 92 tunnels, with coconut trees bending in the foreground and rivers gushing beneath the sleepers.

Darjeeling Toy Train

Best for families and steam enthusiasts.

Start – New Jalpaiguri; End – Darjeeling; Distance – 84km (52 miles); Duration – 7hrs 20mins

Since the late 19th century, this dainty little "toy train" has been trundling slowly uphill to the Bengali hill station of Darjeeling . Seven hours after leaving the base of the hills, this pint-sized loco wails arrives in a cloud of steam and dark smoke, offering a trip back to an earlier century. Trucks and carts creep to a halt to allow the train to wind across Hill Cart Road, where the carriages glide so close to shop fronts that you can almost reach out and touch the piles of apples.

Built by the British colonial government, the railway was originally used to transport tea and rice down to the plains, but it’s now Unesco World Heritage listed and more commonly packed with holidaying families singing Hindi movie songs and cheering at particularly thrilling sections of track such as the Batasia Loop.

Every day, the train zig-zags uphill from New Jalpaiguri (NJP) through thick groves of bamboo and pine, working its way around rich green tea plantations before hooting into Darjeeling. The main service is usually pulled by a diesel engine, but two-hour joy rides chug from Darjeeling to Ghum and back tugged by steam locos. On a clear day, you may even spot the sun-kissed summit of  8586m (28,169 ft) Mt Khangchendzonga hovering on the horizon. 

The Dibrugarh–Kanyakumari Vivek Express

Best train ride for serious rail enthusiasts.

Start – Dibrugarh; End – Kanniyakumari; Distance – 4154km (2581 miles); Duration: 74hrs 35mins

Leaving once a week on Saturdays, this is one epic train ride, taking passengers from Upper Assam in the northeast corner of the country all the way to Kanyakumari in Tamil Nadu , at the southernmost tip of India – the point where the Bay of Bengal, the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean meet. Making 57 stops in eight different states, this multi-day odyssey is a deep immersion into the verve and spirit of India's railways.

For the perfect combination of charm and comfort, book into a 2AC sleeper carriage – with open, four-berth compartments – and lie between clean white sheets watching students playing cards, mothers rocking babies in cradles tied from saris, and friends chatting over hot vadas (lentil-flour fritters) and endless cups of chai (sweet Indian tea). Take the opportunity to stroll up and down the 16 carriages to experience a microcosm of Indian society, and keep plenty of small denomination notes to hand for snacks, as hawkers rarely have change for big bills.

Island Express

Best for a quick taste of the indian rail experience.

Start – Thiruvananthapuram; End – Kanniyakumari; Distance – 87km/54 miles; Duration – 3hrs 20mins

By Indian standards, the Island Express is barely a local hop, but it’s a magical trip that takes passengers into the dewy depths of Kerala . For less than a dollar, passengers can stake out a window seat on this quiet country service that squeezes through the backwaters between Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala and Kanyakumari in Tamil Nadu, passing villages of sugar-pink houses and tiny whitewashed churches.

Waterlogged paddy fields roll by, skinny palms bend as if bowing, and the steam from the kitchens of trackside houses drifts through the open doors. You’ll want to sit right up against the windows (or in the open doorways) to snap photos of children playing street cricket, elderly men in dhotis (white sarongs) smoking rolled-leaf cigarettes and bullock carts rumbling alongside the rail tracks. Just watch out for the stray branches that thwack against the sides of the train, leaving broken twigs scattered up the aisles and tiny flowers scattered underfoot.

Pune–Hazrat Nizamuddin Duronto Express

Best train trip for a first-time overnight ride.

Start – Pune; End – New Delhi; Distance – 1515km (941 miles); Duration – 19hrs 35mins

India’s sleeper trains vary widely when it comes to levels of comfort, with many services creeping along at a snail's pace and stopping noisily at local stations through the night – a definite hindrance to sleep! However, Duronto Express trains only stop at a tiny number of stations en route, using some of the country’s fastest trains, and they offer excellent meals and high standards of onboard service.

Recognizable by their bright green and yellow color scheme, these sleek and modernized trains are perfect for first-time night-riders looking to sample the Indian railway experience without the rough edges. Departing Pune just after 11am every day, the train speeds past rushing rivers, stretches of deserts, small mountains and serene villages.

There's much excitement in the middle of the day as lunch arrives on red plastic trays. Expect tomato soup with a breadstick and butter followed by foil-wrapped chapatis, steamed rice, dal, chicken curry, yogurt and pickles – and a small tub of vanilla ice cream for dessert. The meals loaded in Pune are the tastiest of the ride, but you'll also get a satisfying dinner and breakfast before rolling into Delhi's Hazrat Nizamuddin station, close to Humayun's Tomb .

You may also like: How to get around in India, from Goa’s beaches to the high Himalayas Visiting the Taj Mahal: plan the perfect trip to India's iconic monument When to go to India: the best times to visit for amazing experiences

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