Thinking about taking a trip around the country? Then you are making the right choice! India has a number of hidden gems and wonderful places to visit that will leave you spellbound. From breathtaking hill stations and rich and traditional pilgrimages to popular landmarks and a number of adventurous activities, India has it all. Whether you are looking to escape the heat, want to party hard, or go sightseeing, this is the place for you. So, why miss out on such a versatile destination? Let us dive deep into the best tourist places in India waiting to provide you with cherished memories!

Top 20 Tourist Places in India

Goa
Pondicherry
Ladakh
Andaman and Nicobar
Kashmir
Manali
Amritsar
Darjeeling
Kerala
Jaipur
Diu
Coorg
Shimla
Mumbai
Kasol
Shillong
Jaisalmer
Agra
Bangalore
Orissa

Goa

If you are looking for some vibrant party scene and want to reach a maximum of fun, entertainment and cherished memories, then Goa is your place! Check out the gorgeous beaches, the rich heritage, and the insane nightlife. The perfect blend of adventure, relaxation and fun; Goa is waiting for you!

Best places to visit: Baga Beach, Anjuna Beach, Fort Aguada, Dudhsagar Waterfalls, Britto’s Shack, Curlies, Club Cubana and Old Goa churches.

Ideal stay duration: 4-5 days

Best time to visit: November to February due to the pleasant weather conditions, festivities and water sports.

Insider’s travel tip: Visit during the off-season for fewer crowds and better deals.

Pondicherry

If you want to experience the perfect blend of the French colonial side and classy, then Pondicherry is one of the best cities to visit in India. While on a trip to the beloved Pondy, you get to visit the serene beaches, the gorgeous streets and incredible spiritual retreats!

Best places to visit: Promenade Beach, Auroville, Serenity Beach, and French Quarter.

Ideal stay duration: 2-3 days

Best time to visit: October to March due to the pleasant weather and the onset of festivals and outdoor activities.

Insider’s travel tip: Rent a bicycle to explore the charming streets at your own pace.

Ladakh

Take a visit to Ladakh and enjoy a peaceful retreat surrounded by majestic mountains, beautiful lakes, Buddhist monasteries, and a variety of adventure activities.

Best places to visit: Pangong Lake, Nubra Valley, Leh Palace, and Tso Moriri Lake, Snow Leopard Trek and Camel Safari.

Ideal stay duration: 7-10 days

Best time to visit: May to September due to pleasant weather.

Insider’s travel tip: Acclimatise for a day or two before exploring to avoid altitude sickness.

Andaman and Nicobar Islands

The most exquisite beach vacation welcomes you! So if you have this persisting question on your mind, “Which is the best tourist place in India for a beach vacation?” then the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are what you are looking for. So if you are a beach lover, love water sports and also have a keen interest in exploring the marine diversity, consider visiting here!

Best places to visit: Havelock Island, Neil Island, Radhanagar Beach, and Cellular Jail.

Ideal stay duration: 5-7 days

Best time to visit: November to May due to the pleasant weather and outdoor activities.

Insider’s travel tip: Book water sports activities in advance for the best rates

Kashmir

Visit this beautiful and scenic destination with absolutely captivating snow-capped mountains, gorgeous lakes, monasteries, and also to satiate the adventure lover in you! Kashmir is a paradise waiting to be explored by you for the immense beauty that it holds.

Best places to visit: Srinagar, Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonmarg.

Ideal stay duration: 5-7 days

Best time to visit: If you want to visit during summer: March to October; if you want to enjoy the winter: December to February.

Insider’s travel tip: Take a Shikara ride on Dal Lake at sunset for a magical experience.

Manali

If you are looking for scenic destinations, you do not need to travel as far as Switzerland. India has its own Switzerland, Manali, which is definitely the best tourist attraction in India for nature lovers. By visiting Manali, you get the whole package of splendid beauty, adventure activities and a peaceful atmosphere.

Best places to visit: Solang Valley, Rohtang Pass, Hadimba Temple, and Old Manali.

Ideal stay duration: 4-5 days

Best time to visit: October to June, as the weather is mild and pleasant, the flowers are blooming and an onset of outdoor activities begins.

Insider’s travel tip: Try paragliding and river rafting for an adrenaline rush.

Amritsar

Check out this historical city located in Punjab, which would be one of the best tourist places in India for pilgrimage tours. So if you are someone who wants to learn about the historical and cultural heritage of our country, then consider visiting Amritsar for a fabulous time!

Best places to visit: Golden Temple, Jallianwala Bagh, Wagah Border, and Partition Museum.

Ideal stay duration: 2-3 days

Best time to visit: November to March, as the weather is mild and pleasant, the festivities begin and the food is to die for!

Insider’s travel tip: Don’t miss the free langar at the Golden Temple.

Darjeeling

This will definitely be in the top 20 best cities to visit in India for a memorable holiday. You will be accompanied with some gorgeous views, scenic tea plantations and a charming community. This is a city that is highly recommended for its tea and the scenic Kanchenjunga mountainous landscapes. So do not miss out on such an exquisite destination.

Best places to visit: Tiger Hill, Batasia Loop, Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, and tea gardens.

Ideal stay duration: 3-4 days

Best time to visit: Visit Darjeeling between April and June for summer and September and November for a cool weather condition.

Insider’s travel tip: Ride the toy train for a nostalgic journey through the hills.

Kerala

Make a pit stop in “God’s Own Country” and explore this versatile destination with its lush greenery, gorgeous hill stations, tranquil backwaters, rich cultural experiences and wonderful native cuisine. So why miss out on such a delightful destination? Pack your bags and visit Kerala now!

Best places to visit: Alleppey, Munnar, Thekkady, and Wayanad.

Ideal stay duration: 5-7 days

Best time to visit: September to March due to the winter season, providing for cool and pleasant weather conditions.

Insider’s travel tip: Stay in a houseboat on the backwaters for a unique experience.

Jaipur

You cannot embark on a journey to visit the best destinations in India for cultural experiences without visiting the “Pink City.” You get a whole package of majestic royal palaces and forts, bazaars, temples and wildlife sanctuaries. Make sure to check out the cultural heritage of this marvellous city and have the time of your life!

Best places to visit: Amer Fort, City Palace, Hawa Mahal, and Jantar Mantar.

Ideal stay duration: 3-4 days

Best time to visit: October to March, as the winter season brings about pleasant weather conditions.

Insider’s travel tip: Shop for traditional Rajasthani crafts at Johari and Bapu Bazaars

Diu

You are surely in for a treat as you visit Diu, as it is one of the best destinations to visit in India for a charming trip experience. Check out the pristine beaches, calming environment and the old-town charm of Portuguese heritage and buildings. This is also perfect for adventure activities by the beach, such as parasailing or swimming.

Best places to visit: Nagoa Beach, Diu Fort, St. Paul’s Church, and Naida Caves.

Ideal stay duration: 2-3 days

Best time to visit: October to February due to the soothing weather, outdoor activities and calm sea.

Insider’s travel tip: Try seafood delicacies at local beachside cafes.

Coorg

Visit the “Scotland of India” and check out the famous coffee plantations, the lush green forest scenery and the spectacular surrounding hills. Coorg is ideal for trekking, sightseeing and a whole lot of fun that should not be missed.

Best places to visit: Abbey Falls, Raja’s Seat, Madikeri Fort, and Dubare Elephant Camp.

Ideal stay duration: 3-4 days

Best time to visit: October to March since the weather is just right!

Insider’s travel tip: Visit a coffee plantation for an authentic experience.

Shimla

As you explore the different destinations, do not miss out on one of the best tourist places in India for honeymooners—Shimla! This charming hill station is known for the exquisite beauty it holds, including the impressive colonial architecture and the wonderful cultural experiences it provides.

Best places to visit: The Ridge, Mall Road, Jakhoo Temple, and Kufri.

Ideal stay duration: 3-4 days

Best time to visit: March to June if you want pleasant weather and November to February for beautiful snow.

Insider’s travel tip: Try local delicacies like Sidu and Channa Madra.

Mumbai

How can you tour India without visiting Mumbai? This vibrant and happening metropolis is a must-visit for a memorable and exciting trip. You can visit the number of popular landmarks, splurge and go on a shopping spree, indulge in the delicious street food and just have the time of your life partying!

Best places to visit: Gateway of India, Marine Drive, Elephanta Caves, and Colaba Causeway.

Ideal stay duration: 3-5 days

Best time to visit: October to February, since the weather is not too harsh, making it ideal for sightseeing.

Insider’s travel tip: Catch a sunset at Marine Drive and explore street food at Juhu Beach.

Kasol

Best places to visit: Parvati River, Chalal Village, and Kheerganga Trek.

Ideal stay duration: 2-4 days

Best time to visit: March to June and October to November, as it provides the perfect and most pleasant weather conditions for trekking.

Insider’s travel tip: Visit nearby villages like Tosh for stunning views and fewer crowds.

Shillong

Do you want to travel abroad without actually leaving India? Then visit Shillong, the “Scotland of India”! This gorgeous and picturesque hill station is located in Meghalaya, which is widely loved for its scenic beauty, lush greenery, magical waterfalls and rich cultural heritage. Additionally, it has some of the best floral blooms and the friendliest community!

Best places to visit: Umiam Lake, Elephant Falls, Shillong Peak, Ward’s Lake, and Don Bosco Museum.

Ideal stay duration: 3-4 days

Best time to visit: March to June and September to November for their mild temperatures, ideal for trekking and hiking.

Insider’s travel tip: Visit during the annual Shillong Autumn Festival for a unique cultural experience.

Jaisalmer

Visit the “Golden City” for an exquisite cultural trip where you get to check out the majestic forts, learn about the Rajasthan culture and even check out the desert landscapes. Jaisalmer is definitely one of the top 20 cities to visit in India for heritage lovers and learn about India’s past.

Best places to visit: Jaisalmer Fort, Sam Sand Dunes, Patwon Ki Haveli, and Gadisar Lake.

Ideal stay duration: 3-4 days

Best time to visit: October to March, as it is perfect for sightseeing.

Insider’s travel tip: Stay in a desert camp for an authentic Rajasthani experience

Agra

One cannot live in India and not visit one of the 7 wonders of the world, housed right here in the heart of our country. Agra is the best place to learn about the Mughal historical and cultural heritage and immerse yourself in its exquisite architecture.

Best places to visit: Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri, and Mehtab Bagh.

Ideal stay duration: 2-3 days

Best time to visit: October to March, as the Taj Mahal looks stunning under the winter light.

Insider’s travel tip: Visit the Taj Mahal at sunrise for the best experience.

Bangalore

Bangalore is the perfect place to kick back and have some fun and relaxation. Check out the incredible party scenes, wonderful shopping spots, historical landmarks, great parks and other fun recreation!

Best places to visit: Lalbagh Botanical Garden, Bangalore Palace, Cubbon Park, and MG Road.

Ideal stay duration: 2-4 days

Best time to visit: October to February, as it has pleasant winter conditions.

Insider’s travel tip: Explore the vibrant food and café culture in the Indiranagar neighbourhood.

Orissa

Orissa, or Odisha, is a wonderful place for a historical and cultural trip experience where you get to visit ancient temples, amazing beaches and a vibrant art and music scene!

Best places to visit: Puri, Konark Sun Temple, Chilika Lake, and Bhubaneswar.

Ideal stay duration: 4-5 days

Best time to visit: October to February during the winter season provides pleasant and mild weather conditions.

Insider’s travel tip: Attend the famous Rath Yatra in Puri for an unforgettable cultural experience.

Now that you know what the best tourist places in India are, nothing should hold you back from visiting them! Explore the several cultural attractions, discover hidden scenic gems and indulge in the delicious cuisine. India is an incredibly underrated most visited countries in the world destination. Before you travel to other countries abroad, check out the delightful spots here and have the time of your life!