India is one of the most beautiful countries among the Southeast Asian nations. Not only the country is diverse in races, culture, languages, and customs, but the stunning geographical diversity presented by the country also makes it a traveller’s paradise. From majestic hills and snow-capped mountains to sandy deserts and sunny beaches, India has everything that makes it an excellent destination for tourists from all over the world.  

If travelling to the country, there are many must visit places in India, without which the tour will be incomplete. However, with so many places to see in India, it can be overwhelming for a first time tourist. So here we are to help you travel to India for the very first time by listing the top ten destinations in the country.

• Delhi

The capital of the nation and a metro city, Delhi is a great place to start your trip. The old world charm of this city can be known from the monuments and buildings of the Mughal era. It is also one of the destinations that are parts of the ‘golden triangle tour’, the other two places being Agra in Uttar Pradesh and Jaipur in Rajasthan. You can book luxury trainsfor this tour that will let you explore the three places in all their glory.

The top attractions in Delhi are the Red Fort, Qutub Minar, Humayun’s Tomb, President’s House or Rashtrapati Bhavan, Jama Masjid, Lotus Temple and India Gate. The city is also a great place to shop for souvenirs.

• Agra

Among all the attractions of India, Agra is well-known in the world because of the magnificent architectural marvel called Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Experience the mesmerising beauty of the Taj Mahal on a full-moon night when the moonlight reflects on its white marble body.

Also, you can visit other spots around the city like Fatehpur Sikri, Agra Fort, Itimad-ud-daula’s Tomb, Akbar’s Tomb, Taj Museum, etc. Agra is quite close to Delhi and is well-connected by road.

• Rajasthan

Rajasthan, the dwelling place of royals is one of the must visit places in India for a first time tourist. Rajasthan tourism comprises of all the best places in the princely state that can make a whole individual tour! However, if you want to visit the key locations in the majestic state, you can go around visiting ancient forts and palaces in the capital city Jaipur, also called the ‘Pink City’ and enjoy camel rides on the Thar Desert in the ‘Golden City’ Jaisalmer.

The best spots in Jaipur are Amber Fort and Palace, Hawa Mahal, City Palace, Jantar Mantar, Alberts Hall Museum, etc. In Jaisalmer, apart from the sand dunes and Jaisalmer Fort, you can visit the temples and the Gadsisar Lake and enjoy your stay at the heritage hotels.

• Mumbai

Mumbai, the financial capital of India and the heartland of Bollywood is one of the greatest attractions of India. The lively city by the Arabian Sea has a happening and busy lifestyle.

When in Mumbai, you can enjoy a stroll along the Juhu Beach or the more popular Marine Drive or visit the Gateway of India – the monument that marks the entry point into the country through the Arabian Sea. You can visit some famous mosques and temples like Siddhi Vinayak Temple and Haji Ali Dargah and take a tour of the Elephanta Caves. This city is also famous for mouth-watering street food.

• Goa

Of all the places to see in India, Goa is the hippest and fun destination, especially for international travellers. Majorly inhabited by Portuguese decedents, it is the party destination of the country. The sunny beaches in Goa offer lots of activities including water sports like scuba diving, white water rafting, snorkelling etc. apart from the gorgeous views of sunrise and sunsets. There are bars, clubs and casinos to keep you busy all through the night and the restaurants serve excellent seafood. Moreover, the quaint churches around the city also offer a great experience.

The best spots in Goa are the Calangute Beach, Baga Beach, Candolim Beach, Pandava Caves, Dudhsagar Falls, Basilica of Bom Jesus, etc.

• Kerala

Kerala is one of the most beautiful places in India and has been nicknamed ‘Gods Own Country’ as there are several temples dedicated to the Hindu God Vishnu. The backwaters of Kerala make this South-Indian state a coveted destination to travellers.

The top places to visit include Alleppy – called the Venice of the East, the quiet hill station of Munnar and its majestic tea gardens, Light House Beach in Kovalam, the Periyar National Park in Thekaddy, Kavvyai Backwaters, the waterfalls in Thrissur, etc. Soak in the stunning natural beauty offered by Kerala with abundant greenery and enjoy some of the best moments of your trip to India.

• Kolkata

Kolkata, the ‘City of Joy’ is the cultural capital of India and is one of the best places to see in India. Kolkata has successfully preserved its heritage and Victorian architectures can be seen all around the busy metro city. Kolkata was also the home to some of the greatest Indian personalities and Nobel Prize Winners like Satyajit Ray, Rabindranath Tagore, C.V Raman, Amartya Sen, and Mother Teresa.

You can enjoy tours to some of the popular spots like the Victoria Memorial, Shahid Minar, the Indian Museum, Fort William, Howrah Bridge, St. Pauls Cathedral Church, Belur Math, Science City, Marble Palace etc. Also, do not forget to indulge in the sweet delicacies offered by the city.

• Varanasi

Varanasi is called the ‘Temple City’ and is well known as a Hindu pilgrimage site. It is one of the must visit places in India for a truly spiritual experience. The city is located by the banks of the River Ganga and is famous for the Kashi Vishwanath Temple dedicated to Hindu God Shiva. A dip in the holy river is considered as a penance for all sins by Hindus. The most popular places include the Dasaswamedha Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, Sarnath Temple, Panch Ganga Ghat and many others.

• Khajuraho

Khajuraho in Madhya Pradesh is a significant historical place because of the well-preserved ancient Hindu temples and their exotic architecture. Some of the best spots to visit are Kandariya Mahadeo Temple, Lakshmana Temple, Matangeshwar Temple, Adinath Temple, Javari Temple, Panna National Park, Raneh Falls, Ken Gharial Sanctuary, Beni Sagar Dam, Jain Museum etc. Some of the temples present light and sound show as well.

• Mysore

Mysore in the Southern state of Karnataka is well known for the royal palaces and many architectural wonders. The city offers a mix of tradition and modernity with spots like the Mysore Palace, Mysore Zoo, Vrindavan Gardens, Lalit Mahal Palace, Jag Mohan Palace, Museum of Natural History etc. You can book some of the top luxury hotels through the best travel apps to enjoy a royal stay in the old city.

Conclusion

India is a culturally rich place that has preserved its heritages quite well. Before visiting India, you should get the best travel tips from different sources to know about the “Dos and Don’ts” for your time in the country to have a pleasant and hassle-free trip. So travel India during your next vacation and enjoy an incredible trip to this beautiful and mystical paradise.