India is a vast country with a diversity of landscapes, cultures, traditions, and sights that attract tourists from all over the world. From majestic forts to serene beaches, India has something for every kind of traveler. If you are planning a trip to India, here are the top 10 most popular places you must include in your itinerary.
Introduction
India's tourism industry has flourished over the years, with millions of tourists flocking to various destinations across the country every year. India offers a plethora of options when it comes to tourist attractions - you have everything from bustling metropolitan cities to quiet hill stations, architectural marvels to natural wonders. Picking the top 10 destinations in India is certainly not an easy task, considering the vast area and sights the country has to offer. However, there are some destinations that are an absolute must-visit on your trip to India.
Delhi - The capital city with a melting pot of cultures.
Agra - Home to the iconic Taj Mahal, a monument of love.
Jaipur - The Pink City, dotted with royal palaces and forts.
Mumbai - Glitz, glamor, and the economic hub of India.
Kerala - God's own country, known for serene backwaters and ayurvedic treatments.
Rajasthan - Land of royal kingdoms and majestic forts & palaces.
Goa - Pristine beaches and a vibrant nightlife.
Kolkata - A vibrant cultural center with colonial architecture.
Varanasi - Ancient holy city on the banks of the Ganges.
Amritsar - Home of the Golden Temple, the holiest shrine of Sikhs.
This blog post takes you through each of these incredible destinations in detail, elaborating why they are a must-visit on your India trip. Keep reading to plan your perfect itinerary!
Delhi
Delhi, India's capital territory, is a massive metropolitan area in the country's north. The city is dotted with remnants of lost empires, chronicling India's ancient history. People from all over India have migrated to Delhi for centuries, creating a melting pot of cultures and traditions. Delhi offers a plethora of attractions for tourists - from majestic monuments that glorify the erstwhile Mughal rule to bustling markets and modern malls.
The Red Fort is one of Delhi's most famous monuments, built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan when he shifted his capital from Agra to Delhi. Constructed with red sandstone, it served as the residence of the Mughal emperors for over 200 years. The fort complex houses a number of museums which offer a glimpse into the grandeur of Mughal rule. Don't miss the evening sound and light show here.
Just opposite the Red Fort lies another top attraction - the Jama Masjid, India's largest mosque. Built by Shah Jahan, it can accommodate 25,000 devotees at once. Don't forget to climb its southern minaret to get a panoramic view of Old Delhi.
Bangla Sahib Gurudwara, a prominent Sikh shrine, is also worth a visit. Its gold dome and flagpole are recognised symbols of Delhi. The complex houses a holy pond, community kitchen, and school.
For some retail therapy, head to the vibrant shopping hubs of Connaught Place and Chandni Chowk. Connaught Place is home to various global brands, restaurants and street food joints, while Chandni Chowk offers an authentic old Delhi shopping experience with bustling bazaars and chaat shops.
When in Delhi, relish lip-smacking street food like chaat papdi, golgappas, kebabs and more. Delhi is a food lover's paradise!
Agra
Agra is a historic city in northern state of Uttar Pradesh, most famous as the home of India's iconic Taj Mahal. The Taj is a 17th century marble monument built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan as a tomb for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. Famed for its exquisite craftsmanship and stunning design, the Taj Mahal sits on the banks of river Yamuna and is regarded as one of the New 7 Wonders of the World.
The best time to visit the Taj Mahal is at sunrise or sunset when the monument bathes in gorgeous hues and the vistas are just breathtaking. The Taj complex also houses a mosque and guesthouse made of red sandstone. While you need a ticket to enter the Taj Mahal, the rest of the attractions in Agra are free to visit.
A short distance away from the Taj lies the imposing Agra Fort, another top attraction. Built by Mughal Emperor Akbar, this majestic red sandstone fort served as the main residence of the emperors. The complex has many interesting structures like Jahangir Palace and Khas Mahal which give a glimpse of Mughal architecture.
Fatehpur Sikri, located 40 km from Agra, is another recommended stop. Built by Akbar in the 16th century, it served as the capital of the Mughal empire for some time. This well-preserved ghost town gives visitors a window into medieval India.
Agra is an excellent place to shop for souvenirs. Check out the local handicrafts market to buy marble replicas of the Taj, Petha (a sweet candy), leather accessories, rugs and more.
Jaipur
Jaipur, the capital of India's Rajasthan state, oozes old world charm. Known as the Pink City, Jaipur gets its name from the pink paint-coated buildings in its old town. Built in the 18th century by Raja Jai Singh II, Jaipur serves as the gateway to other popular destinations in Rajasthan.
The sprawling Amber Fort complex, located just outside the main city, is Jaipur's most famous attraction. Perched on a hilltop and built with red sandstone and marble, the fort palace's opulent interior and artistic craftsmanship reflect the rich Rajputana history. Don't miss the nightly light and sound show here.
Within the city, the iconic Hawa Mahal is a top highlight. Its beehive-like structure with hundreds of tiny windows was built to enable royal women to observe everyday life on the streets. The City Palace is an imposing complex where you can see Rajasthani and Mughal architecture blend beautifully. The buildings house a museum displaying royal costumes, arms and paintings.
Jaipur is also renowned for its bustling bazaars selling colorful textiles, precious gemstones and more. Johari Bazaar and Bapu Bazaar are famous for traditional Rajasthani jewelry while Tripolia Bazaar is popular for lac bangles.
Make sure to try authentic Rajasthani cuisine like Dal-bati-churma and pyaaz kachori when here.
Mumbai
Mumbai, India's financial powerhouse, is fast-paced and glamorous. Located in the state of Maharashtra, Mumbai offers tourists glimpses of history along with entertainment options to suit diverse interests.
The iconic Gateway of India facing the Arabian Sea is Mumbai's most famous landmark. Built during the British Raj, it commemorates the visit of King George V and Queen Mary. Make your way to the nearby Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to admire its stunning Victorian Gothic architecture.
Marine Drive is Mumbai's seaside promenade where you can go for a relaxing stroll and enjoy the breeze. Lined with art deco buildings on one side, it's a great spot to watch the sunset. The famous Juhu Beach is another lively place to visit.
You can learn about Mumbai's history at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya museum. Exhibits include impressive collections of sculptures, natural history specimens, and miniature paintings.
The Siddhivinayak Temple dedicated to Ganesha, Mumbai's most revered deity, should also be on your itinerary. The 200-year-old temple sees thousands of devotees every day. End your day at Mumbai's vibrant Chowpatty Beach to enjoy local snacks like bhel puri or Mumbai's signature vada pav.
For entertainment, head to posh South Mumbai to experience fine dining restaurants, luxury hotels, and high-end shopping. The chaotic bazaars in Crawford Market present an altogether different experience.
Mumbai is the place to be for a quintessential Indian big city experience!
Kerala
Fondly called 'God's Own Country', Kerala is India's tropical haven located on the Malabar coast. With serene backwaters, ayurvedic treatments, and rich wildlife, Kerala promises rejuvenation for mind, body and soul.
The famous backwaters are the highlight of Kerala tourism. Cruise through palm-lined canals on a houseboat and soak in the tranquil vibe as you pass through quaint villages. Don't miss the opportunity to dine on a houseboat and spend a night here as well. Alleppey, known as the Venice of the East, is the hub for houseboat cruises.
Munnar is a breathtaking hill station blanketed in endless tea plantations. With its cool climate, cascading waterfalls, and tranquil valleys, Munnar lets you experience the raw beauty of nature at its best.
Down south, Kovalam is Kerala's famous beach destination with crescent-shape shores and swaying palm trees. Enjoy swimming, sunbathing or indulge in rejuvenating Ayurveda therapies offered here. The Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram is also worth seeing for its mix of Kerala and Dravidian architectural styles.
Kerala's exotic cuisine, with its use of coconut milk, aromatic spices and seafood dishes, is a foodie's paradise. Don't leave without trying staple dishes like sambar, appam, idli and dosa.
Rajasthan
Rajasthan, located in northwestern India, attracts scores of tourists with its royal ruins and colorful culture. Once home to the legendary Rajput warriors, Rajasthan is dotted with enormous forts, fanciful palaces and bustling markets.
The Amber Fort and Hawa Mahal in Jaipur, as mentioned earlier, are some of the state's most impressive structures. The pink city makes an excellent base to explore nearby attractions.
Jodhpur's imposing Mehrangarh Fort perched on a rocky cliff epitomizes Rajput grandeur at its best. For a magical experience, visit at night when it is lit up. The blue houses in Jodhpur's old city area earned it the nickname Blue City.
Udaipur, centered around its romantic Lake Pichola, is called the Venice of the East. The towering City Palace by the lakeside offers picturesque views. Fateh Sagar Lake is perfect for sunset views.
The Golden City of Jaisalmer lies in the heart of the Thar Desert. Marvel at the Jaisalmer fort, take a camel safari across sand dunes, or camp under the stars. Don't miss visiting the ancient Karni Mata Temple at Deshnok, home to thousands of holy rats.
Rajasthani culture is vibrantly showcased through folk music and dance. Trying on colorful turbans and traditional outfits like lehengas as you explore the bazaars also adds to the royal experience.
Goa
Goa, renowned for its tropical beaches, stellar seafood and nightlife, is India's prime beach destination. Located on the western coast along the Arabian Sea, Goa allures tourists with its laidback vibe and Portuguese heritage.
With a string of golden sand beaches, Baga and Calangute in North Goa are popular among backpackers and revellers. Water sports like parasailing, jet skiing, and banana boat rides abound. Party the night away at lively shacks playing trance music.
Palolem and Agonda in South Goa are calmer choices with their palm-fringed shores and beach huts. Cola Beach with its glistening blue waters is also stunning.
Pamper your taste buds with Goan delicacies like vindaloo curry, fish recheado and bebinca sweet. Have some feni, Goa's signature alcoholic drink made from cashews or coconuts.
Make time to explore Goa's Portuguese history by visiting sights like Basilica of Bom Jesus and Fontainhas in Panjim, known for its colorful colonial architecture.
With its laidback atmostphere, mouthwatering cuisine and surreal beaches, Goa promises an unforgettable tropical vacation.
Kolkata
Kolkata, erstwhile Calcutta, fondly retains its colonial vibe blended with Bengali culture. Located in the eastern state of West Bengal, the lively metropolis lies on the banks of Hooghly river.
Being India's former colonial capital, Kolkata is steeped in British architecture. The Victoria Memorial building, an imposing white marble museum, is the most famous remnant of the British Raj. St. Paul's Cathedral, Howrah Bridge and the Writer's Building are other impressive colonial sites.
As the cultural capital of India, Kolkata hosts vibrant festivals throughout the year. Durga Puja is the biggest festival celebrated with grandeur and artistry. Kolkata is also renowned for its art galleries and literary scene.
Wander around the bustling New Market area to shop for handicrafts, textiles and try out delectable Bengali sweets. Savor traditional Bengali cuisine like fish curries, rosogolla and mishti doi here. Don't leave without having piping hot kathi rolls and chai along the streets.
With its old world charm, rich culture and mouthwatering cuisine, Kolkata offers an incredible Indian city experience.
Varanasi
Varanasi, also known as Kashi and Benaras, is one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world. Located in Uttar Pradesh along the banks of the holy river Ganga, the sacred city draws Hindu pilgrims for rites of worship, salvation and cremation.
Perched along the riverfront are ancient ghats - stone steps leading to the water's edge. Manikarnika Ghat is the main cremation ghat where funeral pyres burn continuously. Watching the evening aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat with lamps floated on the river is spellbinding.
Take a boat ride at dawn along the ghats to admire the light reflecting off the waters and get a glimpse of the bathing and ceremonial rituals conducted here daily. Don't forget to explore the labyrinthine alleys of Varanasi filled with over 2,000 temples and shrines.
Varanasi's silk sarees with intricate designs in gold and silver threads are prized possessions. Shop for Banarasi saris as souvenirs from the bustling bazaars. Splurging on spiritual items like prayer beads and statues is also common.
Varanasi is a sacred place that gives you an unmatched insight into Hindu customs, philosophy and the cycle of life & death. Even short visits here leave everlasting impressions.
Amritsar
Amritsar, located in Punjab, houses the remarkable Golden Temple, the most important pilgrimage site in Sikhism. Maharaja Ranjit Singh commissioned the building of this spiritual marvel in the 19th century with a foundation of marble and gold leaf overlay on the dome. The temple gets its name from the gold paneling used extensively across the entire structure.
The Golden Temple sits in the middle of a sacred tank which reflects the temple's gold hues. The temple complex is open on all sides, representing the Sikh values of openness and equality. Make sure to visit at night when it dazzles under lights.
Another must-see is the India-Pakistan border crossing ceremony at Wagah, just outside Amritsar. The energetic change of guards and forceful closing of gates here makes for an entertaining watch.
Amritsar is also a food lover's delight when it comes to Punjabi cuisine. Indulge in rich curries, tandoori meats, naan breads and flavorful lassis in this city. The bustling streets serve up incredible street food too!
With its lively spirituality and generous hospitality, Amritsar undoubtedly tops the list of places to visit in India.
Conclusion
From imposing forts to spiritual salvation, India's vast landscape, colorful festivals and mouthwatering cuisine make it an unmissable travel destination. This blog post takes you through India's most popular tourist attractions that should feature on every travelers list. With its incredible diversity, India promises an experience that you will cherish forever! So start planning an itinerary that covers these ten amazing destinations. Get ready for a vacation filled with rich culture, natural beauty and amazing food!