India is a land of varied landscapes. Travelers can expect to escape into the Himalayan Mountains, spend their days lazing by the beach or explore the thick jungles of national parks. A melting pot of religions, a place where cultures come together in humble diversity to create a colorful world of peaceful co-existence, that’s what India, is all about. It is not just a place to travel to; it is an experience that will be etched forever in the hearts of every traveler. Looking for the top incredible places in India? Your search ends here, check out these amazing places in India and holidays like never before.
List of 10 Amazing Places in India
1. Goa
Embracing the western coast of the Indian subcontinent is the beach destination of India, Goa. This smallest state of India is known for its sandy beaches, crazy nights, and memorable sunsets. The eclectic collection of authentic seafood, well-preserved architecture, and endless coastline makes Goa the perfect getaway for both groups of friends and family holidays. The laid-back atmosphere in Goa invites domestic and international tourists from all over the world. Thanks to the low alcohol prices here, trendy theme bars, fun shacks by the beach, and catholic churches represent the colorful combination of culture and heritage. The entire state is divided between north and south Goa each of which has its own personality. While north Goa is the hub of clubbing culture that remains teeming with tourists, South Goa, on the other hand, is much more serene and peaceful. One thing is for sure, no matter where you go, an incredible time is guaranteed.
2. Shimla
Shimla is the capital city of the hill state of Himachal Pradesh. In this list of incredible places in India, this queen of hills deserves a special mention. Declared the summer capital of India during British rule, Shimla is a breath of fresh air from the scorching heat of the plains. Situated at a decent altitude of just about over 2,000 meters above sea level, Shimla still manages to capture that old world charm to this day. Walking through the pedestrian-friendly Mall road ridge, spending quality time at the cafe and restaurant lining the ridge, and shopping for quirky little souvenirs make for an interesting day out in Shimla. Blessed with a dense green cover and maintained by the state administration, Shimla is truly one of a kind.
3. Varanasi
India is the melting pot of many religions. The country is dotted with temples, holy shrines, and many Devbhoomi, like Varanasi. Varanasi is located on the banks of the holy life-giving river of Ganga. Also referred to as Kashi, this holy town is also famous for being one of the most ancient living cities in the world. The entire city is settled on either side of the banks where the pilgrims visit and make it a point to take a holy dip. Varanasi is the hub of Hindu philosophy, Vedic religion, and the nearby Buddhist center of Sarnath. Visitors and pilgrims from across the globe make it a point to at least visit Varanasi at least once in a lifetime as it is believed that taking a dip in the Ganga River here would wash the devotees off their sins.
4. Kerala
Kerala, better known as god’s own country, Kerala is a scenic state located on the Malabar coast. Kerala is known for its backwaters, magical hill stations, and interesting culture. From the delicious fragrance of authentic traditional Kerala cuisines and the refreshing breeze sweeping down the hills to the quirky culture and rich well preserved heritage, this place is a must-visit. The culture of Kerala when teamed up with its interesting demographic makes it a paradise for every traveler. Be it a hill stations tour to Munnar and Wayanad, a temple tour, or an Ayurveda tour Kerala ranks among the top must-visit places in India. Rich in soft sandy beaches, verdant hills, old palaces, incredible forts, and wildlife sanctuaries, Kerala is a dream destination for anyone seeking to spend a wholesome holiday. Kerala invites solo trekkers and families to spend some quality time.
5. Jodhpur
When you think about Jodhpur, Rajasthan, thoughts of lavish palaces, elaborate forts and the eloquent lifestyle of the kings and queens flood your thoughts. This 2nd largest city in Rajasthan had historically served as a capital for the Marwar kingdom. Due to its princely past, Jodhpur resonates with a very enchanting vibe that is prominent even to this day. The old city circles around the strong Mehrangarh Fort which is decorated further with the blue lanes of the city that radiate throughout the city naming it the ‘blue city’. The elaborate architectural wonders such as pillars and gates are dotted all over Jodhpur which reminds the tourists of the rich past it had been through once. Other than the cultural aspect, a few kms of drive-through Jodhpur will land you in the stark brown landscape of the Thar Desert. Did you know that the hit Christopher Nolan film, the dark knight rises were shot in Jodhpur?
6. Dehradun
The hill station of Dehradun is the crowning glory of the Garhwal Himalayas. Although on the hills, Dehradun is not located at a whopping elevation making it a much loved weekend getaway destination for the locals residing in the nearby plains. Blessed with pleasant weather conditions throughout the year and refreshing natural beauty, Dehradun has always sparked the interest of the British since the very beginning. Dehradun is nestled in the peaceful Doon Valley which is formed in between the Song River (Ganga tributary) and Asan River (a tributary of Yamuna River). Dehradun is famous for being the gateway to many different nearby scenic locations like Mussoorie, Auli, Chopta, etc. It also serves as the Launchpad for the Chardham Yatra by Helicopter. The historical, legendary, and mythological importance of Dehradun is as interesting as its geographical location.
7. Manali
Manali is truly a loving gift from the Himalayas to the world. Settled along the scenic banks of the Beas River on the northern end of the Kullu Valley, Manali is the starting point for being the ancient trading route that goes through Lahaul and Ladakh and further. Named after the first human called ‘Manu’, Manali represents a rustic atmosphere where various tribes and cultures thrive in comfortable coexistence. Once a sleepy hamlet away from the chaos, Manali is now a combination of modern travelers and age-old traditions. A must-visit for nature enthusiasts, peace seekers, and adrenaline junkies, Manali should be on every traveler’s bucket list. The Tranquillity of Manali can be experienced through the cafes, peaceful spots, and other interesting places that the valley is full of.
8. Rishikesh
Famous as the yoga capital of the world, Rishikesh has always attracted like-minded, spiritually curious souls. Located within the Tehri Garhwal region and very close to the surrounding plains, Rishikesh is a wonderful relief from the city grind. This ancient city is lined on both sides with immaculate Ghats displaying elaborate Ganga Aarti processions, peaceful ashrams that are visited by spirituality seekers from across the globe, and cafes serving deliciously homemade traditional cuisines. Immerse yourself in the deep devotion of goddess Ganga and walk through the fragrant narrow cobbled lanes by the roaring Ganga River. Other than spirituality, Rishikesh is also famous as a white river rafting destination. Rishikesh is a gateway to Char Dham Yatra and also the gateway to the Garhwal where pilgrims Kickstart their Char Dham Yatra.
9. Andaman Nicobar Island
Looking for an exotic beach vacation? Looking forward to taking a break from the crazy chaotic life and sipping on some delicious cocktail while gorging on delicious food? Then look no further. Andaman Nicobar Island is all about offering the perfect beachside holiday. Other than Goa this archipelago of over 600 different, big and small-sized islands, is just the place for you. With blue seas all around, white sandy beaches lining the coasts, and colonial heritage, Andaman island is a slice of paradise. Unlike the rest of the beach destinations in India, Andaman offers excellent opportunities to indulge in diving activities. Ferrying your way to the nearby islands, spending your days lazing out in the sun, and soaking in the colonial past while getting to know more about the underwater world is an experience that you will never forget.
10. Kodaikanal
Situated in the south Indian state of Tamil Nadu, Kodaikanal is known as the princess of all the hill stations. Kodaikanal literally translates into ‘the gift of the forest’ and it truly stands by its name. Famous for being one of the most chosen honeymoon destinations in India, this lakeside resort is known for its manicured rolling green hills, mystical peaks, and rejuvenating environment. Kodai has found its home in the Palani Hills, it is a destination where people go to take a break from the chaotic city life. The hill station gives you an opportunity to sit back, relax and take life slowly. From the pine forests to the tea gardens and meadows, Visiting Kodaikanal should definitely be on your travel list.
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